Physical Accessibility Guidelines of Consumer Product Controls

Abstract

A literature review was undertaken to compile information on the design of consumer product controls (CPCs), concentrating on physical accessibility of electronic devices. Few studies were found that addressed CPC access by people with disabilities; however, information on accessibility for the general population was found. Control guidelines were developed that include information on the application, design, size, force, switch travel, activation/position feedback, spacing, and direction of activation. This information should be helpful to designers of electronic consumer products, researchers interested in product accessibility, and possibly clinicians who are fabricating or modifying equipment for a particular group of people.