8.4.2 Definition of "operable parts", and impact on preconditions of 8.4.2.1 und 8.4.2.2
In the context of auditing a self-service terminal for e-charging that has a cable that needs to be moved to a vehicle as part of the process that the closed functionality ICT supports, the question arises whether the cable and its operation fall under 'operable parts'.
This is critical for deciding on the precondition listed for 8.4.2.1 "Means of operation of mechanical parts" and 8.4.2.2 "Force of operation":
8.4.2.1 The ICT has operable parts that requires grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist to operate.
8.4.2.2 The ICT has a control which requires a force greater than 22,2 N to operate it.
The question is whether it is just physical buttons around the display that qualify as part of the ICT (as indicated by the term "control") or whether the cable and its operation (the force needed to unlatch it and insert it) belong by necessity to the ICT and fall under this requirement (at least under 8.4.2.1). In view of the spirit of The WCAG conformance requirement "Complete Processes" it probably should be included. However, if the total operation of the process involves physical parts that by design need to be grabbed, it is not clear if the 8.4.1 and 8.4.2 can ever be be met by these systems (if an alternative equivalent process is not feasible).