# Self-Sterilizing Keyboards The UVLightBoard Zaps Bacteria From Its Surface as You Type Away By Amelia Roblin | Published 2014-04-23 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/uvlightboard References: [yankodesign](http://www.yankodesign.com/2014/04/22/ultimate-transparency/) & [ifdesign.de](http://www.ifdesign.de/index_e) The designer of the UVLightBoard was absolutely disgusted by the statistics that arose in some initial research. Discussing that it seemed as though toilets have cleaner surfaces than computer keyboards, Mu-Chern Fong proposes a cutting-edge concept for a piece of electronic equipment that sanitizes itself. The futuristic keyboard would be manufactured as a [glossy transparency panel](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lumo-x700). The glass-like pane would be enhanced with microstructures and the delivery of an illuminating effect that would light up every key for optimal visibility at all times. The [optical light guides](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lenovo-800-selfcharging-bluetooth-keyboard) in the device would also serve to irradiate germs on the surface so that the keyboard would no longer be a means of [bacterial transfer](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/home-sanitation-device). An entry into the 2014 iF Design Awards, the UVLightBoard is ultra-clean in both purpose and appearance. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 5.8/10 - Popularity: 91% | Activity: 74% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Gadgets](https://www.trendhunter.com/gadgets) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Self-sterilizing Keyboards:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop self-sterilizing keyboards for improved hygiene and reduced bacterial contamination in the workplace. - **Microstructure-enhanced Panels:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore the use of microstructures in electronic equipment for improved functionality and user experience. - **Optical Light Guides:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Utilize optical light guides for both visibility enhancement and germ irradiation in various electronic devices. ### Where This Applies - **Technology Manufacturing:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Incorporate self-sterilizing technology in the manufacturing process of keyboards and other electronic devices to meet the growing demand for hygienic products. - **Healthcare:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Integrate self-sterilizing keyboards in healthcare settings to prevent the spread of infections and improve patient safety. - **Office Equipment:** Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop self-sterilizing keyboards for offices and workspaces to promote cleanliness and reduce the risk of bacterial transfer among employees. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Self-Sanitizing Computer Mouses](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/zero-mouse.md) - [Workstation-Sanitizing Task Lights](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/smart-desk-light.md) - [Hygienic Washable Keyboards](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/seal-shield-cleanwipe-pro.md) - [Micro Countertop Dish Sanitizers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/desktop-disinfection-cupboard.md) - [Workstation-Sanitizing Table Lamps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/tolomeo-lamp.md) - [Self-Cleaning Touchscreen Dashboards](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/selfcleaning-system.md) - [UV Light Razor Cleaners](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/purity-razor-sterilizer.md) - [Ambient Light-Powered Keyboards](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lenovo-800-selfcharging-bluetooth-keyboard.md) - [Powerful UV Sanitation Wands](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/uv-sanitizer-wand.md)