A Design of Air-Condition Remote Control for Visually Impaired People

Air condition is operated by a remote control presented mainly with visual cues. Individuals with visual impairment have difficult to use it. This research aims to design an air condition remote control for them. Based on investigation, literature review, and discussion among 4 experts, a set of design principles emphasizing on consistency, discrimination, efficiency, label, and feedback has been set up. 6 main functions each having 2~4 alternatives were modeled by ABS accordingly. 20 visually impaired people volunteered in two experiments: within function and between function. By Friedman test and LSD method, the 6 functions have been classified into three groups: (power switch, temperature setting), (wind speed selection, wind direction selection), and (sleeping mode, time setting) arranging form top to bottom on a remote control. Through discussion, the braille labels have been decided placed at the left side of the function buttons. The implications were discussed in the conclusion.