Experimental Study on the Universal Design of Signage Size and Brightness Contrast for Low Vision Individuals

Abstract

Signage is an important medium for individuals to obtain spatial environmental information conveniently and accurately. However, most previous studies focus on signage design for individuals with normal vision, neglecting the specific requirements of those with low vision. Therefore, these signage designs lacking universality restrict the activities of individuals with low vision in public spaces and increase their risks. This study aims to conduct quantitative research on signage size and brightness contrast for low vision individuals. A virtual simulation experimental platform investigated how individuals interpret and react to signage. Two sets of experiments were carried out in Tianjin Key Laboratory of Healthy Habitat and Smart Technology to evaluate the effects of signage size and brightness contrast on response time and accuracy among a total of 139 participants. The results showed that the signage size should be at least 7% of the reading distance to meet the wayfinding needs of low vision individuals. The impact of contrast on wayfinding was strongly dependent on signage size. This research provides valuable insights into the design of signage for low vision individuals.

Keywords

• brightness contrast
• low vision individuals
• signage size
• universal design