CT50
Industrial Strength Ergonomics
The CT50 is the first full-screen, rugged handheld computer developed by Intermec/Honeywell. Ergonomic front-press scan keys streamline user workflow by allowing touch screen interaction and “hard-key” scanning without the re-positioning of the hand to use traditional side keys.
Full Screen Usabillity
Based on extensive OVOC we knew “Blind” key entry (entering information and scanning without looking) was critical to the workflow of many of our users.
Questions:
-How do industrial users interact with a handheld computer that doesn’t have physical keys?
-How do we create a device without keys that has some “blind entry“ functionality?
Sketch model of CT50 form-factor based on initial ID requirements and estimated internal dimensional constraints
Full Screen Scanning
4 models with functional scanning buttons were created and evacuated for ease of use and targeting targeting accuracy.
Participants were asked to perform a series of tasks involving simulated text/numeric entry and barcode scanning.
Each concept was then ranked based on participant feedback and and participant hand size data.
ID Refinement I
Based on the ergonomic study, the design with side buttons was chosen. In order for the user to maintain a neutral hand position during use the scan button would need to be actuated from the front and also the side.
ID Refinement II
Working directly with the mechanical engineering team and the overseas manufacturing resource, the final product design was completed.
Challenges:
-Handstrap design with central camera placement (RF requirement)
-Battery latch design and functionality
-I/O contact design due to handstrap constraints
-Dual OS control graphics on one touchscreen assembly
Peripherals
To function in a wide range of deployment environments, the peripheral ecosystem for the handheld needs to be very complex.
The ID team worked with electrical, mechanical, RF engineers, marketing executives and outside manufacturers to design the support system for any “known” multi-unit installation scenario.
ID prototypes for general snap-on form-factors.
IBTLE triggered scan handle