PenAgain
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The PenAgain is a ergonomic writing device developed by Pacific Writing Instruments, Inc. The PenAgain was designed to alleviate stress and reduce the risk of repetitive strain injury while writing. Many people who are unable to write with traditional instruments due to severe afflictions such as rheumatoid arthritis or significant injuries to the hand report being able to write normally with the PenAgain.
Writing with the PenAgain differs from writing with a traditional cylindrical pen. Some users have reported that a learning curve is required with the PenAgain due to its "Y" shape. The writer's index finger sits in the Y-shaped device, so that the weight of the writer's hand directs pressure to the pen’s tip. This eliminates the need to grip the pen and push the tip into the paper. The index finger guides the tip of the pen, removing stress traditionally placed on the thumb and forefinger while writing. This hand posture reduces the likelihood of calluses and cramps.[citation needed]
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[edit] History
The bifuricated shape for a writing device was first proposed and patented by John WyttenBach in 1886.[1] Several other interations arose including The Pen and Brush Holder of Dwight B. Smith and the Penholder by George Cooper Ward.[2] Colin Roche designed the PenAgain while serving detention in high school.[3] The PenAgain went through several design iterations and on October 28, 2003 was granted a patent from the USPTO.[4]
[edit] Models
Several different models of the PenAgain have come to the market. These include the Original PenAgain, which is made of plastic, and the Ergo-Sof, which has a soft felty finish. Pacific Writing Instruments also developed a stylus tip for PDA compatibility of the PenAgain. A new upscale "indie" model in brushed metal and PenAgain pencils are also expected to be released in the near future.
| Model | Image | Details |
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| Original |
Original model was made of plastic. Included pocket clip, retractable cap.
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| Ergo-Sof |
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Ergo-Sof model retained the same general form as the original but added a soft rubbery felt finish.
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| Glidelighter |
PenAgain Highlighter that comes in different colors. Cap can be placed on the pen tip when not in use.
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| Ergomark |
An ergonomic sharpie like permanent chisel tip marker.
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[edit] Media Attention
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The shape and function of the PenAgain has generated substantial media attention[citation needed]. Though relatively new to the market, PenAgain has received recognition in magazines such as Arthritis Today, AARP, Wired and Newsweek for making writing less strenuous. Pacific Writing Instruments is also the subject of an ongoing series of articles[5] in the Wall Street Journal detailing the trials and triumphs of startup companies in dealing with major retailers like Wal-Mart. The most famous of these articles was published on November 13 of 2006, when the Journal ran a article,[6] accompanied by what may have been the largest non-advertisement color picture ever displayed[citation needed] by the century old newspaper. It is said that four days after the story ran the PenAgain was picked up by an additional 15,000 stores[citation needed].
[edit] References
- ^ WyttenBach, John Bifuricated Pen-Holder Patent Number 336540, Feb, 16, 1886.
- ^ Smith, Dwight B Pen and Brush Holder Patent Number 340382, Apr, 20, 1886; Ward, George Cooper Penholder Patent Number 657370, Sep. 4, 1900
- ^ Perkins, Broderick Life Enhancement Made Possible by Non-Chip Technology San Jose Business J. Jan, 2, 2004
- ^ Roche, Colin, Ronse, Bobby Ergonomic Writing Instrument Patent Number 6637962, Oct, 28, 2003
- ^ Bounds, Gwendolyn. The Long Road to Wal-Mart Shelves, The Hard Part Follows After Big Chain Says Yes, Pen Maker’s Trial by Wal-Mart, Part III, Pen Maker Struggles with Too Much Demand. Startup Journal
- ^ Bounds, Gwendolyn. "You Got the Big Break. Now What?". November 13, 2006. The Wall Street Journal.
[edit] External links
- PenAgain — Official Website
- Ergonomic Review of the Ergo Sof PenAgain- Chris Adam, About.com, 2006
