Tumble is a vertical, wireless computer mouse that keeps your hand in a more relaxed position when working and can be used by both right- and left-handed users thanks to its symmetrical design.
Define the problem/need you are solving or addressing with your project. How does it address the Open Call criteria, such as environmental impact, social engagement, circularity, user experience, resource efficiency, and community-driven solutions?
Unfortunately, many products and technology are designed for right-handed use, ignoring the fact that almost 20% of the population is left-handed and must constantly adapt and retrain to use tools that are not designed for them.
The same situation applies to the vertical computer mouse market where most models are designed for right-handed users.
Tumble offers a universal solution that can be used comfortably by both right- and left-handed users; simply flip the mouse over.
Its ergonomic design provides a more natural position of the hand when working, helping to prevent wrist pain, while ensuring equal accessibility.
Tumble highlights the social problem of ignoring left-handed people.
It adapts to people, and does not force them to relearn or use it in a way that is “unnatural” for them.
Please describe your project, reflecting on the concept, inspiration, materials, technical aspects, methods and process(es).
Tumble was inspired by my family, half of whom are left-handed.
Watching them, I realized that even simple tasks like opening a single-door refrigerator can become awkward and counterintuitive when design favors the right hand.
The idea for Tumble’s shape emerged while I was sculpting an ergonomic mouse from clay. I made a rough model of a right-handed vertical mouse, flipped it, and tried using it with my left hand. My hand imprints on both sides brought me to thought: why not make a vertical mouse symmetrical?
After creating several clay prototypes, I tested them with friends and refined the form, ensuring comfort even for users with long nails.
Tumble is made of plastic with a silicone insert for a secure, comfortable grip. The battery compartment allows it to be more mobile, making it practical for everyday use.
What do you think makes your project innovative compared to the existing efforts and ideas in the field it addresses?
The main distinguishing feature of Tumble is its symmetrical and ergonomic shape, which allows it to be used with both right and left hand.
In the vertical mouse market most products are designed for right-handed users, with separate mirrored versions for the left – but why not combine both in a single solution?
Tumble is suitable for personal use, but it is also a perfect solution for offices, schools, libraries, computer clubs, and other public spaces where people rotate or work in shifts,
allowing everyone to feel comfortable working the way they want.
Different color variations make it possible to find the perfect option that suits any workspace and bring users joy.
Does it impact or reflect young people need(s) and how?
There’s a growing trend of left-handed people choosing to use their dominant hand more. As a result of this more products and stationery designed for left-handed use are becoming available. But this is still not enough. Many people do not realize that it is wrong to retrain left-handed individuals. Many children are still forced to retrain themselves to use their right hand for every task. This behavior forces them to become accustomed to inconvenient and unhealthy movements. Subsequently, using the right hand instead of the dominant one becomes a habit, even if it causes severe discomfort.
The availability of commonly used devices, such as left-handed computer mice, can help people to recognize the depth of this problem.
Tumble’s design and bright colors make the problem more visible. It normalizes using objects in the way that feels most natural and comfortable.