Identification of the Minimum Legible Text Size for Group-View Display of the Main Control Room in Radioactive Waste Facility

Abstract

Objective:The present study identified the minimum legible text size by an experiment for eight combinations of background and text colors, which will be used in designing visual information on group-view display (GVD). Background: Information on minimum legible text size is needed to design the visual information presented on GVD in a radioactive waste control room. Method: The experiment was conducted for 22 male participants (age: mean = 37, SD = 6.7; visual acuity: over 0.8) who were recruited by considering demographic characteristics of current control room operators. Eight combinations of background and text colors were considered and the minimum legible text size was determined for each combination by applying the method of limits, one of psychophysical methods. Results: The minimum legible text size was significantly different in accordance with the combination of background and text colors. Statistical analysis results showed that luminance contrast and color contrast between background and text influenced the minimum legible text sizes. Conclusion: This study concluded that the minimum legible text size is 8 minute of arc for various combinations of background and text colors. Application: The minimum legible text size identified in the present study can be utilized in designing visual information on GVD at the main control room in a radioactive waste facility.