E. van Dijck

De Blauwe Kamer Theofaan Groep
Castilielaan 8,
PO Box 1409,
5602 BK Eindhoven,
the Netherlands

Background: Since the introduction of the CCTV in the seventies, there have been frequent changes in the design of this device. Some changes in design led to substantial improvements, while other changes concerned the outer appearance or unnecessary technical novelties. The quality of cameras and monitors improved (for instance the low-radiation monitor, 75 Hz framerate, use of colour cameras, colour monitors and autofocus). Devices were equipped with more and more functions, although not always with a higher functionality. Efforts were taken to make the CCTV an "eye-catcher", so that visually impaired people found it easier to accept this highly technical device.

One aspect of the CCTV has not received enough attention however by designers, salesmen and low-vision advisors: the ergonomics of the device. Our experience is that many industrial designers tend to underestimate the relevance of the ergonomics of the device, especially for the - in most cases elderly - patient with low vision.

We will present a set of ergonomic requirements and simple rules for many parts of the CCTV (buttons, reading plate, heights, positions) that were collected during several years of CCTV training at the patient’s home and at our low vision centre.

CCTV design deserves more ergonomic attention. The presented list of ergonomic aspects and improvements would benefit visually impaired people in the acceptance and usage of these devices.