An Optimal Text/Background Color Combination of LED Information Boards for Visibility Improvement Based on Psychological Measurements

Abstract

Abstract. In this study, conspicuity and readability of the text on light-emitting diode (LED) information boards were evaluated by psychological experiments, and the influences of color combinations of text / background, luminance, and shadow were evaluated quantitatively. In recent years, LED boards have been able to display full-color images, and they have many functions to highlight text. Therefore, it is assumed that the LED board ability to function may be reduced depending on the way it is used. We investigated the relationship of color combinations of text and background, luminance, and shadow to conspicuity and readability to evaluate ease and efficiency of information communication via the LED board. We found that (1) the size of the area with high luminance affected conspicuity, (2) the difference of luminance of the part adjacent to the text/background affected readability, and (3) shadow affected both conspicuity and readability. Furthermore, trade-off between them was confirmed.

The Effect of Icon Color Combinations in Information Interfaces on Task Performance under Varying Levels of Cognitive Load

“…At the same time, Li et al explored the gender preference for color combinations in digital interfaces [7]. Shiraiwa et al analyzed the eye-catching and readability of text on LED message boards under distinct color combinations, lighting conditions, and shadow effects [8]. Guo et al investigated the effect of five factors, such as text color and background texture, on the recognition efficiency and legibility of digital text and described that the green/black combination exhibited superior legibility and recognition efficiency in light background and dark text combinations [9].…”