Analysis of ocular surface area for comfortable VDT workstation layout

Area of Science:

• Ergonomics
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Ophthalmology

Background:

• Large ocular surface area (OSA) can cause eye irritation and fatigue.
• OSA is a key index for evaluating visual ergonomics.
• Optimizing visual display terminal (VDT) workstation layout is crucial for user comfort.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a comfortable VDT workstation layout.
• To evaluate VDT workstation layouts using OSA as an ergonomic index.
• To identify factors influencing OSA in VDT use.

Main Methods:

• Subjects performed word processing tasks in four different VDT workstation layouts.
• Ocular surface area (OSA) was measured to assess visual ergonomics.
• The relationship between VDT/keyboard distance and OSA was analyzed.

Main Results:

• The distance between the cathode ray tube (CRT) display and keyboard significantly affected OSA.
• CRT height was less influential on OSA than the CRT-keyboard distance.
• A smaller OSA was achieved when the CRT was positioned closer to the keyboard.

Conclusions:

• Recommended VDT workstation layout includes adjustable desk height and a CRT display positioned closer to the keyboard.
• This layout aims to reduce OSA and enhance VDT operational comfort.
• Ergonomic adjustments can mitigate eye strain and improve user experience.