The International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) focuses on abilities rather than limitations. It highlights how Joel's environment, strengths, and support system shape his daily life. With his passion for tech, gaming, and cycling, he continues to explore and thrive.

Joel struggles to see keyboard keys clearly, making typing difficult. To compensate, he bends down while typing, causing discomfort and inefficiency. The lack of tactile feedback on standard keyboards further increases his challenge in typing accurately.

The target activity is typing comfortably and efficiently, allowing Joel to write independently without strain. We identified two key solutions: a tactile keyboard accessory with embossed letters for better key recognition and a stable, adjustable stand to improve visibility and comfort.

First design idea is to a tactile keyboard accessory with embossed letters, allowing Joel to feel each key and reduce reliance on vision. It will feature raised letters and high-contrast colors for visibility and can be designed as stick-on key labels or a custom cover for a standard keyboard.

Second design idea is to design an adjustable keyboard stand that elevates and tilts the keyboard for better visibility. It will be lightweight, stable, and portable, with adjustable height and tilt settings for customized comfort and accessibility.

We began sketching concepts for our ideas, focusing on ergonomics, stability, and usability. The designs explore raised letter textures, key spacing, and stand adjustability to ensure Joel’s comfort. 

An initial submission. Too delicate.

Ideal as it can be applied and removed at once.

Each key is separated by a small 3D printed wall to make them more distinguishable.  Doesn't serve our purpose.

We used the stage 2 prototype to test if Joel can recognize the embossed letters. The testing was very successful as Joel could identify all  the tested letters quickly.

In Joel's own words:

Based on the recommendations given in the mid evaluation we designed letters which could be pasted onto the keyboard. This allowed us to use contrasting colors for the letter tile and the embossed letter making it easier to be read. 

Joel was able to quickly recognize the letters. This method also simplified the process of 3D printing and implementing the design.

The final product features tactile key tiles with embossed letters. The high contrast and backlighting helps visibility. Here are the .stl files of the keyboard accessory(key tiles) so that you can 3d print your own.
Letters

The final product features a lightweight yet stable design with adjustable height and angle. Here are the .stl files of the Keyboard Stand.
Right Stand

Joel had a very positive reaction to the final products. The two products altogether made his typing experience much more enjoyable. He really liked the keyboard lighting as well.

We had a chance to talk with another child and a parent affected with CVI. Their feedback proved that our products make a clear difference in the life of a person with CVI. With that we hope to further improve our products and make them more accesible.