Code entry system with activation of a mode adapted for visually impaired people

Abstract

System for entering (1) a code comprising: - a touch keyboard (2) provided with discrete touch keys (21) assigned to respective characters, and one of which is provided with a marking relief, this touch keyboard being configured to generate key signals in response to tactile contacts exerted by a finger on the touch keys; and - a processing unit (3) configured to analyze said key signals to select characters, and operating in a mode adapted to sighted persons and in a mode adapted to visually impaired persons; and - an approach sensor (4) separate from the touch keys, shaped to detect an approach action performed by a user and in response to deliver an approach signal (40), and the processing unit is connected to the approach sensor and is configured to switch from the main mode to the secondary mode upon receipt of the approach signal. Abstract figure: Figure 3

Description

Title of the invention: Code entry system with activation of a mode adapted to visually impaired people Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to an input system for entering a code on a touch keyboard.

[0002] It relates more particularly to an input system for entering a code for visually impaired or blind people.

[0003] The invention finds a preferred, and non-limiting, application for a secure access control reader requiring the entry of a code to authorize access to a secure space, but can also find an application in other sectors such as electronic payment terminals and self-service distribution terminals (for example, ATM, food dispenser, beverage dispenser, etc.). Prior art

[0004] In a known manner, devices requiring the entry of a code comprising a series of characters, and in particular numbers, have a keyboard comprising several keys assigned to respective characters including numbers, and possibly also alphabetic characters and / or special characters, such as for example the characters “*” and “#”, and / or functional characters, such as for example a validation key for validating the code once entered, or a backspace or correction key in the entry of the code, or even a key for canceling the complete entry.

[0005] Each key has a visual representation of a symbol informing the user about the character assigned to the key: indication of the number to which a number key relates for entering the number code; indication of the alphabetic character; indication of the special character; indication of the functional character (or the function of the key), for example by a color, such as a green key for validating the code; a red key for canceling the entry; etc.

[0006] Typically, such a keyboard may be a mechanical keyboard or a touch keyboard. The technologies differ between the two keyboard models, but the principle remains common, namely that the keyboard comprises a plurality of discrete keys, and the user presses the keys to enter the associated characters.

[0007] In a mechanical keyboard, the keys are mechanical keys that the user must push or press to trigger typing; in a touch keyboard, the keys are formed by touch sensors based on touch detection technology. (or contact), such as capacitive technology, inductive technology or infrared technology, so that the user only needs to touch the key to trigger typing, without the need to apply any particular pressure. In practice, the keys of a touch keyboard are curved, hollow or raised, to allow the keys to be distinguished.

[0008] However, the visual representations of the keys are difficult to access for people with visual impairments, and are completely inaccessible to blind people.

[0009] Solutions have been designed to make keyboards accessible to the visually impaired. For example, and in accordance with European standard EN 13332-3 06-1999, for keyboards, the "5" key on the keyboard is provided with a tactile marking relief so that by moving their finger over the keyboard, the visually impaired person can identify this key and use it as a reference point to locate the other keys; the "2" key is located above the "5" key, the "4" key on the left, the "6" key on the right, etc. Similarly, for electronic payment terminals, embossings in the shape of an "O" and an "X" respectively are used so that the visually impaired person can locate the validation and cancellation keys.

[0010] In the case of a mechanical keyboard, this solution with a tactile marking relief is sufficient, because the visually impaired person can search for and touch the mechanical keys to identify the tactile marking relief, without pressing them so that there is no risk of triggering an erroneous entry of a character during this preliminary phase of searching for the marking relief.

[0011] On the other hand, this solution with a tactile marking relief is not satisfactory in the context of a tactile keyboard, because the visually impaired person must search for and touch the tactile keys to identify the tactile marking relief (generally by sliding their finger), then to search for the other keys once the tactile marking relief has been identified, so that it will inevitably trigger erroneous character entries during this preliminary phase of searching for the marking relief and when searching for the keys (because simple contact with a tactile key on a tactile keyboard triggers the entry of the character concerned, there is no need to press the key as in a mechanical keyboard). Consequently, this preliminary phase on a tactile keyboard leads to the entry of an incorrect code, thus making this solution not very ergonomic for visually impaired people. Summary of the invention

[0012] The invention proposes to respond to the problem posed with a solution for entering a code on a touch keyboard which is more accessible and ergonomic for visually impaired people. The solution can also be used for a person clairvoyant.

[0013] Thus, the invention relates to an input system for entering a code comprising a sequence of characters, this input system comprising: - a touch keyboard provided with discrete touch keys assigned to respective characters including at least numbers, each touch key comprising a touch sensing surface and the touch sensing surface of at least one of the touch keys is provided with a marking relief, said touch keyboard being configured to generate key signals in response to tactile contacts exerted by a finger on the touch sensing surfaces of the touch keys, each of the key signals being associated with the touch key on which the tactile contact is exerted; and - a processing unit connected to the touch keyboard to acquire the key signals generated by the touch keyboard, and configured to analyze said key signals to select characters according to said key signals; in which the processing unit is configured to operate in two distinct modes which are: - a main mode, adapted to the LEDs, in which the processing unit is configured to select each of the characters by operating as follows: acquisition of a key signal followed by automatic assignment of the character which is assigned to the touch key associated with said key signal, so that a character is automatically selected by a tactile contact of a finger on the touch key assigned to said character; and - a secondary mode adapted for the visually impaired and in which the processing unit is configured to select each of the characters as follows: acquisition of a key signal followed by verification of an additional validation condition by analysis of the key signals, and allocation of the character which is assigned to the touch key associated with said key signal only if the additional validation condition is met, so that a character is selected by a tactile contact of a finger on the touch key assigned to said character followed by compliance with the associated additional validation condition.

[0014] According to the invention, the input system comprises at least one approach sensor configured to detect an approach action performed by a user and in response to deliver an approach signal, said at least one approach sensor being distinct from the touch keys of the touch keyboard, and the processing unit is connected to the at least one approach sensor and is configured to switch from the main mode to the secondary mode upon receipt of at least one approach signal from the at least one approach sensor.

[0015] In other words, the input system is based on the principle of allowing a visually impaired person to switch to the secondary mode which is more suitable for them, instead of the primary mode. primary mode that easily uses sight by performing a predefined approach action, such as bringing one's hand or a badge closer to the touch keypad or coming into contact with the touch keypad; this approach or contact of the hand or badge being detected by the approach sensor (or one of the approach sensors). Since the approach sensor is separate from the touch keys of the touch keypad, a user cannot switch to the secondary mode by pressing one of the touch keys; in other words, the processing unit is not configured to switch to the secondary mode upon receipt of a key signal, and it switches to the secondary mode only upon receipt of an approach signal that is different from the key signals.

[0016] It should be noted, for the purposes of this description, that the selection of a character by the processing unit means that the processing unit transmits this character as an input for the validation of the code. Each character selected by the processing unit forms a sequence of characters which is compared to the recorded code, for example to authorize access, validate a payment, etc. This comparison of the sequence of characters selected by the processing unit can be done within the processing unit, or within a host system which receives the selected characters from the processing unit and then compares them with the recorded code.

[0017] This process of selecting a character varies depending on whether the processing unit is in the main mode or in the secondary mode. In the main mode, each time a touch key is touched, this results in the selection of the assigned character; whereas in the secondary mode, it is not sufficient to touch a touch key for the selection of the assigned character, it is also necessary to fulfill the additional validation condition associated with this touch key.

[0018] In use, a visually impaired person therefore performs the approach action necessary to switch to the secondary mode, without having to touch the touch keys because the approach sensor is separate from the touch keys, and then touches the keys to search for the marking relief and then to touch the touch keys by sliding their finger on the touch screen in order to enter the code, while respecting the additional validation conditions. Indeed, when the processing unit is in the secondary mode, this mode is well suited to visually impaired people because an accidental contact on a touch key does not automatically trigger the selection of the assigned character, but an additional action must still be performed to meet the additional validation condition.Thus, this secondary mode is intended to avoid unwanted character selections when the visually impaired person fumbles with the screen keys, particularly when looking for the relief marker or a key.

[0019] A sighted person performs a touch input directly, by pressing the touch keys that he or she is viewing, because the touch keyboard operates in the main mode adapted to sighted people, that is to say with a conventional input by simple touch contacts on the touch keys, in other words each touch contact on a touch key automatically triggers the selection of the assigned character.

[0020] It should be noted that, according to the invention, the keyboard is a touch keyboard, with touch keys which are discrete keys each allocated to a specific character; it being conceivable that the characters may comprise only numbers, namely the numbers "0" to "9", or comprise both these numbers and other characters, such as alphabetic characters and / or special characters, such as for example the characters "*" and "#", and / or functional characters, such as for example "validation", "correction or backspace", "cancellation". For the purposes of the invention, this touch keyboard is not a mechanical keyboard with mechanical keys which must be pressed or pushed.

[0021] According to one possibility, the processing unit is configured to be by default in the main mode, in the absence of reception of the approach signal from the at least one approach sensor.

[0022] According to another possibility, the processing unit, when in secondary mode, is configured to automatically switch from secondary mode to main mode once the entry of the characters forming the code has been completed, for example after a predefined time delay.

[0023] In other words, when the visually impaired person has correctly entered the code in the secondary mode, then the processing unit automatically returns to the main mode.

[0024] According to one feature, the processing unit, when in secondary mode, is configured to automatically switch from secondary mode to primary mode if no key signal is generated by the touch keyboard after a predefined period of time.

[0025] Thus, if the secondary mode is activated and no touch key is touched during this period of time, then the processing unit automatically returns to the main mode.

[0026] In an advantageous embodiment, the at least one approach sensor comprises at least one lateral approach sensor shaped to detect the approach action in the form of an approach or contact of a hand of the user on at least one side of the touch keyboard.

[0027] Thus, the approach action that the visually impaired person must perform takes the form of an approach or contact of a hand on one side of the touch keyboard, to the right, to the left, above or below the front face of the touch keyboard where are located the touch keys.

[0028] In other words, the input system is based on the principle of allowing a visually impaired person to switch to the secondary mode by bringing their hand closer to the touch keyboard from the side or by coming into contact with the touch keyboard; this bringing closer or this contact of the hand or the badge being detected by the lateral approach sensor (or one of the lateral approach sensors).

[0029] Since the lateral approach sensor is separate from the touch keys (in other words, separate from the means implemented by the touch keyboard for entering characters), a conventional approach of the hand by a sighted person to the touch keyboard (in other words, to the front face where the touch keys are arranged) will not be detected by this lateral approach sensor and will therefore not be confused with an approach on the side used to switch to the secondary mode. On the other hand, when a visually impaired person approaches his hand to the keyboard, he naturally searches for the keyboard by a scanning gesture, which leads to an approach or contact on one side of the keyboard, and therefore to detection by the lateral approach sensor.

[0030] It should be noted that the side of the touch keyboard means, within the meaning of the present description, a lateral part extending next to the front face of the touch keyboard; in other words this front face of the touch keyboard is clearly excluded from the definition of the side of the touch keyboard. Furthermore, when the touch keyboard is embedded in a locker and / or is integrated into a secure access control reader, then the side of the touch keyboard may correspond to the side of this locker and / or to the side of this reader.

[0031] In a particular embodiment, the at least one lateral approach sensor comprises at least one side sensor which is positioned on the at least one side of the touch keyboard.

[0032] By placing this sensor on one side of the touch keyboard, it is easy to detect a hand approaching this side (or coming into contact with this side), to the extent that this hand approaches this sensor from the side.

[0033] As explained previously, this side sensor can be arranged directly on the side of the touch keyboard, and can also be arranged on the side of the locker and / or the reader.

[0034] According to one possibility, the at least one side sensor is selected from a capacitive sensor, an inductive sensor, a radar sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, an accelerometer, a camera and a mechanical sensor.

[0035] Such capacitive, inductive, radar, ultrasonic, or optical sensors (in the form of a camera) are advantageous for reliably detecting the approach of the hand to the side of the touch keyboard; an accelerometer is advantageous for detecting contact (in the form of a shock) of the hand to the side of the touch keyboard; a mechanical sensor (switch type) is also advantageous for detecting contact (in the form of a effort on the mechanical sensor) of the hand on the side of the touch keyboard.

[0036] In an advantageous embodiment, the at least one side sensor comprises several side sensors arranged on several sides of the touch keyboard, or a peripheral sensor extending on several sides of the touch keyboard.

[0037] Thus, the hand can approach the touch keyboard on several sides, or even on any side, to activate the secondary mode.

[0038] In another embodiment, the at least one lateral approach sensor comprises at least one front sensor which is positioned on a front face of the touch keyboard on which the touch keys are arranged, such a front sensor having a detection field making it possible to detect the approach or contact of the user's hand on at least one side of the touch keyboard.

[0039] Thus, in this variant, the lateral approach sensor is not positioned on the side of the touch keyboard (as is the case with the side sensor), but is positioned on the front face of the touch keyboard, while being capable of detecting the approach or contact of the user's hand on the side of the touch keyboard thanks to a wide detection field.

[0040] According to another possibility, the at least one facade sensor is chosen from a radar sensor, an ultrasonic sensor and a camera.

[0041] Thus, the front sensor can be a wide-angle camera capable of seeing to the sides while being arranged on the front face of the touch keyboard, and for example in the center of the keyboard.

[0042] According to one possibility, the processing unit is configured to switch from the main mode to the secondary mode upon receipt of two consecutive approach signals from the at least one lateral approach sensor, the two consecutive approach signals being spaced apart by a time interval less than a given threshold.

[0043] This option is advantageous because it allows that a simple approach of the hand on the side cannot activate the secondary mode, only a double approach or a double contact, sometimes called "tap-tap", will allow switching to the secondary mode.

[0044] Furthermore, the processing unit is configured to remain in main mode if the time interval is greater than the given threshold.

[0045] In a variant, the at least one approach sensor comprises a radio identification sensor for detecting the approach action in the form of an approach or contact of a radio identification badge containing switching information.

[0046] Thus, the approach action that the visually impaired person must perform takes the form of an approach or contact with a radio identification badge worn by the person and which contains switching information that the processing unit will retrieve to switch to the secondary mode. It should be noted that this radio sensor Identification can be considered alone, or in combination with the lateral approach sensor(s) described above. The radio identification badge can be a card, a token, or be integrated into a mobile terminal such as a telephone.

[0047] In this case with a radio identification sensor to switch to secondary mode, this radio identification sensor can very well be placed on the side of the touch keyboard or be on the front, behind the touch keyboard.

[0048] This radio identification sensor can operate in radio identification technology in BlueTooth®, LoRa®, WiFi®, UWB, NFC, or other wireless technologies.

[0049] In a first embodiment, the processing unit is configured so that, in the secondary mode, following the acquisition of a key signal, called the first key signal, associated with a touch key assigned to a character, the additional validation condition comprises the acquisition of a second key signal associated with the same touch key after a period without acquisition of a key signal between the acquisitions of the first key signal and the second key signal, so that a character is selected by a first tactile contact of a finger on the touch key assigned to said character, followed by a removal of said finger, then followed by a second tactile contact of the finger on the same touch key assigned to said character.

[0050] In other words, the input system relies, when it operates in this first embodiment of the secondary mode, on an acquisition of two successive tactile contacts on the same tactile key to select the character assigned to the tactile key; thus an unfortunate tactile contact on a tactile key (for example when the finger passes over it while sliding), not followed by a removal of the finger then a new tactile contact on this same key, will not lead to the selection of the character assigned to the key.

[0051] Thus, thanks to this first embodiment of the secondary mode, the visually impaired person simply has to slide his finger on the touch keyboard to detect the marking relief (by sliding, the finger passes over touch keys but no character selection takes place), then he slides his finger from the marking relief to reach the target touch key (and thus the processing unit acquires a first key signal associated with this target touch key), lifts his finger (and thus the processing unit no longer detects a key signal, and therefore detects the removal of the finger), and finally places his finger back on the target touch key (and thus the processing unit acquires a second key signal associated with this target touch key), so that the processing unit selects the character assigned to this target touch key.The operation is repeated in this way by sliding the finger to the new target touch key, then lifting the finger and placing the finger again on the new target touch key. In other words, a character is selected by a double contact on the same key; the first . contact that can be at the end of a finger slide after entering a previous character, and the second contact that can be the start of a finger slide to enter a next character.

[0052] Advantageously, the processing unit is configured so that, in the secondary mode, the additional validation condition also comprises a comparison between a maximum time threshold and the period between the acquisitions of the first key signal and the second key signal, so that a character is selected by the first tactile contact of the finger on the touch key assigned to said character, followed by a removal of said finger, then followed by the second tactile contact of the finger on the same touch key assigned to said character, within a time less than the maximum time threshold between the first tactile contact and the second tactile contact.

[0053] In other words, for the two successive contacts on the same touch key to be taken into account to select the character assigned to the touch key, the delay (also called period) between the two contacts must be less than this maximum time threshold; in other words, the two contacts must be close together in time. This maximum time threshold can, for example, be of the order of 1 to 2 seconds, and it can be configurable.

[0054] In a second embodiment, the processing unit is configured such that, in the secondary mode, the additional validation condition comprises a minimum contact duration for the key signal, such that a character is selected by a tactile contact of a finger on the touch key assigned to said character under the condition that this tactile contact lasts at least the minimum contact duration.

[0055] In other words, the input system relies, when it operates in this second embodiment of the secondary mode, on an acquisition of a long contact (i.e. of a duration greater than the minimum contact duration) on the same touch key to select the character assigned to the touch key; thus an unfortunate touch contact (when the finger slides on the key because the person is looking for the relief of reference or a specific key) and therefore short (of a duration less than the minimum contact duration) on a touch key will not lead to the selection of the character assigned to the key. This minimum contact duration can for example be of the order of 2 to 3 seconds.

[0056] Advantageously, the processing unit is connected to at least one alert transmitter, which is audible or vibratory, and the processing unit is configured to control the at least one alert transmitter in order to produce an alert signal, which is audible or vibratory, when said processing unit switches from the main mode to the secondary mode.

[0057] In this way, the visually impaired person is warned that the secondary mode is now activated.

[0058] According to one characteristic, the processing unit is connected to at least one transmitter of feedback, which is audible or vibratory, and the processing unit is configured to, at least in the secondary mode, drive the at least one feedback transmitter to produce an audible or vibratory feedback signal, when the processing unit selects a character.

[0059] Advantageously, the feedback (whether audible and / or vibratory) that the visually impaired user will hear or feel when their finger is placed on a touch key of the touch keyboard, will alert them that they have selected a number. It is possible to provide such feedback also in the main mode.

[0060] The invention also relates to a secure access control reader comprising an input system as previously described.

[0061] The invention also relates to an input method for entering a code comprising a sequence of characters, this input method operating on an input system as previously described, and comprising: - generating key signals in response to tactile contacts made by a finger on the touch-sensing surfaces of the touch keys, each of the key signals being associated with the touch key on which the tactile contact is made; - acquire by the processing unit the key signals generated by the touch keyboard; - analyzing said key signals by the processing unit to select characters according to said key signals.

[0062] This input method includes a main mode, suitable for sighted people, and a secondary mode, suitable for visually impaired people.

[0063] In the main mode, the processing unit performs the following steps to select each of the characters: acquisition of a key signal followed by automatic assignment of the character which is assigned to the touch key associated with said key signal, so that a character is automatically selected by a tactile contact of a finger on the touch key assigned to said character.

[0064] In the secondary mode, the processing unit performs the following steps to select each of the characters: acquisition of a key signal followed by verification of an additional validation condition by analysis of the key signals, and allocation of the character which is assigned to the touch key associated with said key signal only if the additional validation condition is met, so that a character is selected by a tactile contact of a finger on the touch key assigned to said character followed by compliance with the associated additional validation condition.

[0065] This input method comprises a step of switching from the main mode to the secondary mode upon receipt of at least one approach signal from the at least one approach sensor configured to detect an approach action carried out. by a user, said at least one approach sensor being distinct from the touch keys of the touch keyboard.

[0066] Of course, all the characteristics previously mentioned for the input system also apply to the input method. Brief description of the drawings

[0067] Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will appear on reading the detailed description below, of a non-limiting example of implementation, made with reference to the appended figures in which:

[0068] [Fig-1] is a schematic view of an input system provided with a touch keyboard, of a processing unit which is in the main mode adapted to the indicators, and of an approach sensor which is here a side sensor;

[0069] [Fig.2] is a schematic view equivalent to that of [Fig.l], where a single touch contact on the touch key “2” allowing the selection of the number “2” in the main mode by the processing unit;

[0070] [Fig.3] is a schematic view of the input system of [Fig.l], where a detection by the side sensor of an approach action of a user, in the form of an approach or contact of a hand on one side of the touch keyboard, so that the processing unit switches to the secondary mode adapted for the visually impaired;

[0071] [Fig.4] is a schematic view equivalent to that of [Fig.3], where is illustrated in secondary mode the start of a tactile search phase for the location relief by a visually impaired person, who places his finger on a starting location which is here the tactile key “7” without the number “7” being selected in the secondary mode;

[0072] [Fig.5] is a schematic view equivalent to that of [Fig.4], where is illustrated in secondary mode sliding the finger of the visually impaired person from the starting location until reaching the marking relief placed here on the touch key “5”, without the number “5” being selected in the secondary mode;

[0073] [Fig.6] is a schematic view equivalent to that of [Fig.5], where is illustrated in secondary mode: sliding the finger of the visually impaired person from the relief of the marker until reaching a target touch key, which here is the touch key “3”, without the number “3” being selected in the secondary mode;

[0074] [Fig.7] is a schematic view equivalent to that of [Fig.6], where is illustrated in secondary mode the removal of the finger (in other words the detachment of the finger) from the target touch key, here the touch key “3”, in order to achieve the additional validation condition to be able to select the number “3” in the secondary mode;

[0075] [Fig-8] is a schematic view equivalent to that of [Fig.7], where is illustrated in the secondary mode the return of the finger to contact with the target touch key, here the touch key “3”, in order to finalize the additional validation condition allowing the selection of the number “3” in the secondary mode by the processing unit;

[0076] [Fig.9] is a schematic view of a variant of the input system of [Fig.l], comprising a radio identification sensor in place of the side sensor to form the approach sensor, and wherein a detection by the radio identification sensor of an approach action of a user, in the form of an approach of a radio identification badge, is illustrated, so that the processing unit switches to the secondary mode adapted for the visually impaired;

[0077] [Fig. 10] is a schematic view of another variant of the capture system of [Fig.l], comprising a camera-type front sensor in place of the side sensor to form the approach sensor;

[0078] [Fig. 11] is a schematic view of a secure access control reader integrating the entry system, with a user in a situation of entering a code.

[0079] [Detailed description of one or more embodiments of the invention]

[0080] With reference to Figures 1 to 9, an input system 1 according to an example of realization lisation of the invention, comprises a touch keyboard 2 provided with discrete touch keys 21 assigned to respective characters including at least numbers. In the illustrated example, the touch keys 21 are twelve in number and comprise ten touch keys assigned to the numbers “0” to “9”, and two touch keys assigned to the special characters “#” and “*”. Of course, other characters are conceivable. In the remainder of the description, a touch key 21 assigned to a character “X” (for example the number “5”), will be called the touch key “X” (for example touch key “5”).

[0081] These touch keys 21 are arranged on a front face 22 (also called front panel) of the touch keyboard 2. The touch keyboard 2 also has sides 23 (or lateral edges) which border the front face 22 at the periphery. In the example illustrated, the touch keyboard 2 has a generally square or rectangular shape, so that it has four sides 23, which are a right side, a left side, a top side, and a bottom side.

[0082] These touch keys 21 may be of a domed shape, for example hollow in the form of a crater or in relief in the form of a dome, in order to be identifiable by touch.

[0083] Each touch key 21 comprising a touch detection surface 24, shown diagrammatically by hatching on the touch keys “6” and “#” in [Fig.l]. The touch detection surface 24 of at least one of the touch keys 21 is provided with a marking relief 25; in the example illustrated, only the touch key “5” is provided with such a relief marking 25, this tactile key “5” being substantially in the center of the tactile keys 21, as can be seen in a conventional keyboard.

[0084] The touch keyboard 2 is configured to generate key signals 20 in response to tactile contacts exerted by a finger 10 on the tactile detection surfaces 24 of the tactile keys 21, each of the key signals 20 being associated with the tactile key 21 on which the tactile contact is exerted. This tactile contact is sometimes called pressing, however it is sufficient to touch the tactile detection surface 24 to generate the associated key signal 20, without necessarily exerting pressure on the tactile detection surface 24, for example by sliding one's finger 10 over it.Thus, a tactile contact on the tactile detection surface 24 of the tactile key “0” generates the key signal 20 associated with the character “0” (also called the key signal “0”), a tactile contact on the tactile detection surface 24 of the tactile key “1” generates the key signal 20 associated with the character “1” (also called the key signal “1”), a tactile contact on the tactile detection surface 24 of the tactile key “2” generates the key signal 20 associated with the character “2” (also called the key signal “2”), etc. and this for each tactile key 21.

[0085] This input system 1 further comprises a processing unit 3 which is connected to the touch keyboard 2 to acquire the key signals 20 generated by the touch keyboard 2, and configured to analyze these key signals 20 to select characters according to the key signals 20. This processing unit 3 can be a processor, a controller, an electronic card or a computer terminal.

[0086] The processing unit 3 is configured to operate in two distinct modes, which are a main mode P suitable for sighted people and a secondary mode S suitable for visually impaired people; these two modes P, S are distinguished in the way of processing / analyzing the key signals 20 to select the characters, and therefore in the way for the user U to act on the touch keys 21 to enter a character.

[0087] Thus, the input system 1 makes it possible to input a code comprising a sequence of characters, and the processing unit 3 is configured to select the characters by means of tactile contacts on the dedicated tactile keys 21.

[0088] With reference to [Fig. 11], this input system 1 can be integrated into a secure access control reader 9 for entering an access code authorizing access to a secure area, for example for opening a door 90 or an access barrier.

[0089] In the main mode P, the processing unit 3 is configured to select each of the characters by operating as follows: acquisition of a key signal 20 followed by automatic assignment of the character which is assigned to the touch key 21 associated with said key signal 20. Thus, a character is automatically selected by a tactile contact of a finger 10 on the touch key 21 assigned to said character. For the user, it is therefore sufficient to touch one of the touch keys with his finger 10 21 to select the character assigned to this touch key 21.

[0090] In the example of [Fig.2], the user makes a tactile contact on the touch key “2”, and thus the touch keyboard 2 generates the key signal 20 associated with the character “2” (or key signal “2”), and the processing unit 3 selects the number “2”. If the user lifts the finger 10 and places the finger 10 again on this same touch key “2”, the processing unit 3 will again select the number “2”. If the user slides the finger 10 on the front face 22 and his finger 10 passes over the touch key “2”, the processing unit 3 will also select the number “2”.

[0091] It is therefore obvious that this main mode P is suitable for sighted people, because it is necessary to aim at the touch keys 21 to enter / select the characters; because any contact with a touch key 21 triggers the entry of the associated character. In other words, this main mode P is unsuitable for visually impaired people who must slide their finger 10 on the front face 22 to search by touch for the marking relief 25 and then the touch keys 21; in fact this sliding of the finger 10 on the front face 22 would automatically trigger erroneous entries or selections of characters.

[0092] To switch to the secondary mode S, the input system 1 comprises at least one approach sensor, which is a side sensor 4 in the example of Figures 1 to 8, a radio identification sensor 5 in the example of [Fig. 9] or a facade sensor 6 in the example of [Fig. 10], in which this approach sensor 4, 5, 6 is distinct from the touch keys 21 of the touch keyboard 2 and is shaped to detect an approach action performed by a user, and in response to deliver an approach signal 40, 50, 60.

[0093] In the example of Figures 1 to 8, the approach sensor is a side sensor 4 positioned on at least one side 23 of the touch keyboard 2 to detect the approach action in the form of an approach or contact of a hand 11 of the user on this side 23 of the touch keyboard 2, as illustrated in [Fig. 3]; this side sensor 4 thus forming a lateral approach sensor, such as for example a proximity sensor, or a presence or contact detection sensor. In this example, a side sensor 4 is provided positioned on only one side 23 of the touch keyboard 2, here the left side.

[0094] Alternatively, the input system 1 may comprise several side sensors 4 positioned on several sides 23 of the touch keyboard 2, or even on all sides 23 of the keyboard 2. Alternatively, the input system 1 may comprise at least one side sensor 4 extending over several sides 23 of the touch keyboard 2, in which case it is referred to as a peripheral sensor. In these variants, the approach action is in the form of an approach or contact of a hand 11 of the user on one of the several sides 23 of the touch keyboard 2 equipped with a side sensor 4.

[0095] The or each side sensor 4 can be chosen from a capacitive sensor, an inductive sensor, a radar sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, an optical sensor (or camera), a accelerometer and a mechanical sensor.

[0096] In the example of [Fig.9], the approach sensor is a radio identification sensor 5 positioned on the touch keyboard 2, and for example provided with an antenna positioned at the rear of the front face 22, to detect the approach action in the form of an approach (within the range of the antenna) of a radio identification badge 51 containing (or storing) switching information.

[0097] In the example of [Fig. 10], the approach sensor is a front sensor 6 which is positioned on the front face 22 of the touch keyboard 2 (on which the touch keys 21 are arranged, as a reminder), in which this front sensor 6 has a detection field making it possible to detect the approach or contact of the user's hand 11 on at least one side 23 of the touch keyboard 2; this front sensor 6 thus forming a lateral approach sensor like the side sensor described above. In the example illustrated, this front sensor 6 is a camera 6, and in particular a wide-angle camera for viewing the sides of the touch keyboard 2.

[0098] The processing unit 3 is connected to the approach sensor 4, 5, 6 and it is configured to switch from the main mode P to the secondary mode S upon receipt of the approach signal 40, 50, 60 from the approach sensor 4, 5, 6.

[0099] The input system 1 may also comprise at least one alert transmitter 7, 8 connected to the processing unit 3, such as for example a vibration alert transmitter 7 and / or an audible alert transmitter 8 as illustrated in [Fig. 3]; so that the processing unit 3 is configured to control this vibration alert transmitter 7 and / or this audible alert transmitter 8 in order to produce an alert signal, which is audible or vibratory, when the processing unit 3 switches from the main mode P to the secondary mode S.

[0100] The processing unit 3 is configured to be by default in the main mode P, in the absence of reception of the approach signal 40, 50 coming from the approach sensor 4, 5, 6.

[0101] Furthermore, when the processing unit 3 is in the secondary mode S, it is configured to automatically switch from the secondary mode S to the main mode P once the characters forming the code have been entered, for example after a predefined time delay. In other words, when a visually impaired person has switched the processing unit into the secondary mode S and has then correctly entered the code on the touch keyboard 2, then the processing unit 3 automatically returns to the main mode P.

[0102] In addition, when the processing unit 3 is in the secondary mode S, it is configured to automatically switch from the secondary mode S to the main mode P if no key signal 20 is generated by the touch keyboard 2 after a predefined period of time. In other words, when a visually impaired person has switched the unit processing unit in the secondary mode S and then did not touch any touch keys 21 or stopped touching the touch keys 21, then the processing unit 3 automatically returns to the main mode P.

[0103] The processing unit 3 can be configured to control the vibratory alert transmitter 7 and / or the audible alert transmitter 8 in order to produce an alert signal, which is audible or vibratory, when the processing unit 3 switches back from the secondary mode S to the main mode P.

[0104] As explained previously, the secondary mode S differs from the main mode P in the way of entering characters on the touch keyboard 2. More precisely, in the secondary mode S, the processing unit 3 is configured to select each of the characters as follows: acquisition of a key signal 20 (called first key signal) followed by a verification of an additional validation condition by analysis of the key signals 20 (namely the first key signal and possibly also a second key signal which follows the first key signal), and allocation of the character which is assigned to the touch key associated with said first key signal only if the additional validation condition is met. Thus, a character is selected by a tactile contact of a finger 10 on the touch key 21 assigned to said character followed by compliance with the associated additional validation condition.For the user, it is therefore necessary to touch one of the touch keys 21 with his finger 10, and it is then necessary to fulfill the additional associated validation condition, so that the character assigned to this touch key 21 is selected.

[0105] In the example illustrated in Figures 4 to 8, the processing unit 3 is configured so that, in the secondary mode S, following the acquisition of a key signal 20, called the first key signal, associated with a touch key 21 assigned to a character, the additional validation condition comprises the acquisition of a second key signal 20 associated with the same touch key 21 after a period without acquisition of a key signal between the acquisitions of the first key signal and the second key signal. Thus, a character is selected by a first tactile contact of a finger 10 on the touch key 21 assigned to this character, followed by a withdrawal of the finger 10 (which then no longer touches a touch key 21), then followed by a second tactile contact of the finger 10 on the same touch key 21 assigned to this character; this is then referred to as an additional validation condition called double contact.

[0106] In other words, the visually impaired person simply needs to slide his finger 10 over the target touch key 21 (the one associated with the character he wants to enter), which triggers the acquisition of the first key signal 20 associated with this target touch key 21, then lift the finger 10 and then place the finger 10 back on this same target touch key 21, which triggers the acquisition of the second key signal 20 associated with this target touch key 21; and then the processing unit 3 selects the character assigned to this target touch key 21. The visually impaired person can then slide his finger 10 towards another target touch key 21 and repeat the operation.

[0107] According to one possibility, the additional validation condition also comprises a comparison between a maximum time threshold and the period between the acquisitions of the first key signal 20 and the second key signal 20, so that a character is selected following the first tactile contact of the finger on the tactile key 21 assigned to said character, followed by a removal of said finger, and finally followed by the second tactile contact of the finger on the same tactile key 21 assigned to said character, within a time less than the maximum time threshold between the first tactile contact and the second tactile contact.

[0108] In other words, if the duration is too long (i.e. it exceeds the maximum time threshold) between the two successive tactile contacts on the same tactile key 21, then the processing unit 3 will not select the character assigned to this tactile key 21.

[0109] With reference to [Fig. 4], at the start of the input, the visually impaired person places his finger 10 at a starting location on the front face 22 of the touch keyboard 2, with the aim of finding the marking relief 25 by sliding his finger 10 on the front face 22. In [Fig. 4], the finger 10 is placed on the touch key “7” which is therefore here the starting location. Thus, the processing unit 3 receives the key signal “7”.

[0110] With reference to [Fig.5], the visually impaired person slides his finger 10 from the starting location until it reaches the marking relief 25; the sliding movement of the finger 10 being here shown diagrammatically by the arrow 15. Also, in the example illustrated, the finger 10 slides from the touch key “7” to the marking relief 25 placed on the touch key “5”. Thus, the processing unit 3 receives the key signal “5”.

[0111] It should be noted that, in the secondary mode S, the processing unit 3 does not select the number “7”, even though it has acquired the key signal “7” at the start of the input. Indeed, to the extent that the visually impaired person, after having placed his finger 10 on the touch key “7”, has not carried out an action of removing the finger 10 and then placing the finger 10 back on this same touch key “7”, then the additional validation condition has not been met and therefore the processing unit 3 does not select the number “7”.

[0112] With reference to [Fig.6], once the visually impaired person has his finger 10 on the locating relief 25, he mentally visualizes the tactile key “5” under his finger 10 as well as the other tactile keys 21 of the tactile keyboard 2, and he can therefore go and find the tactile keys 21 by sliding his finger 10 to successively enter the characters forming the code. In the example illustrated, the first character to be entered is the number “3”, so the visually impaired person slides his finger 10 from the marking relief 25 (or from the touch key “5”) to the target touch key 21 which is here the touch key “3”; the sliding movement of the finger 10 being here shown diagrammatically by the arrow 16. ». Thus, the processing unit 3 receives the key signal “3”, called the first key signal “3”.

[0113] It should be noted that, in the secondary mode S, the processing unit 3 does not select the number “5”, even though it has acquired the key signal “5” when the finger 10 came into contact with the marking relief 25 placed on the touch key “5”. Indeed, to the extent that the visually impaired person, after sliding his finger 10 onto the touch key “5”, has not carried out an action of withdrawing the finger 10 and then placing the finger 10 back onto this same touch key “5” (in fact, the finger 10 has slid again to go to the touch key “3”, without detaching the finger 10), then the additional validation condition has not been met and therefore the processing unit 3 does not select the number “5”.

[0114] With reference to [Fig.7], once the visually impaired person has his finger 10 on the target touch key 21 which is here the touch key “3”, he removes (or unsticks) his finger 10.

[0115] With reference to [Fig.8], the visually impaired person, after having removed (or detached) his finger 10, again places his finger 10 in contact with the target touch key 21 which is here the touch key “3”, so that the touch keyboard 2 generates a second key signal “3”. The processing unit 3 then receives this second key signal “3”, and deduces therefrom that the additional validation condition is fulfilled to operate a selection of the number “3”; also on the condition that the finger 10 has been removed for a duration less than or equal to the maximum time threshold, or else on the condition that the period (or duration) between the acquisition of the first key signal “3” and the second key signal “3” is less than or equal to the maximum time threshold.

[0116] A key signal 20, as presented previously, can be in the form of a one-time feedback signal (in other words a pulse) generated by the touch keyboard 2 as soon as a finger touches a touch key 21, and transmitted to the processing unit 3 for analysis. This key signal 20 of course contains information identifying the touch key 21 which is touched. Also, holding the finger 10 on a touch key 21 and then removing it has no impact on the operation of the touch keyboard 2 which only reacts to contacts and not to withdrawals. Thus, for the touch keyboard 2 to be able to generate a first key signal and then a second key signal for the same touch key 21, it is necessary for the finger 10 to be removed (or detached) between two touch contacts on this same touch key 21.

[0117] If the visually impaired person then has to enter a new character (here a character distinct from the number “3”) associated with a new target touch key 21, then the visually impaired person can repeat the operation by sliding his finger 10 in direction of this new target tactile key 21, either directly if his mental visualization of the tactile keyboard 2 allows him to do so, or by going back through the relief of reference 25 and therefore through the tactile key “5”.

[0118] In a first variant, if the visually impaired person has to enter the same character again (here the number “3”), then the visually impaired person can remove the finger 10, and then repeat the operation of placing the finger 10 on the touch key “3”, then removing the finger 10 for a duration less than or equal to the maximum time threshold, and finally placing the finger 10 back on the same touch key “3”. In other words, in this first variant, to enter “33” (in other words to enter the character “3” twice in a row), it is necessary to make a first double contact to enter the first “3”, then make a second double contact to enter the second “3”.In other words, four touch contacts must be made in a row, with a first and second touch contacts to enter the first "3", and then a third and fourth touch contacts to enter the second "3" (the third touch contact and the fourth touch contact being considered a first touch contact and a second touch contact for the second "3").

[0119] In a second variant, if the visually impaired person has to enter the same character again (here the number "3"), then the visually impaired person can remove the finger 10, for a duration less than or equal to the maximum time threshold, and then he places the finger 10 again on the same touch key "3". In other words, in this second variant, to enter "33" (in other words to enter the character "3" twice in a row), a triple contact must be made to enter the two "3"s in a row. In other words, three tactile contacts must be made in a row, with a first and a second tactile contact to enter the first "3", and then a third tactile contact to enter the second "3" (the second tactile contact and the third tactile contact being assimilated to a first tactile contact and a second tactile contact for the second "3").

[0120] In an alternative embodiment, the processing unit 3 is configured so that, in the secondary mode S, the additional validation condition comprises a minimum contact duration for the key signal 20. Thus, a character is selected by a tactile contact of a finger 10 on the tactile key 21 assigned to said character on the condition that this tactile contact lasts at least the minimum contact duration; this is then referred to as an additional validation condition known as long contact.

[0121] In other words, a character is selected by a tactile contact of a finger 10 on the tactile key 21 assigned to this character, on the condition that this tactile contact is a long contact in the sense that it lasts longer than the minimum contact duration; on the other hand, if the visually impaired person makes a tactile contact on a tactile key 21 and that this touch contact is a short contact in the sense that it lasts less than the minimum contact duration, then the processing unit 3 does not select the character assigned to this touch key 21.

[0122] In the situation, at the start of the entry, the visually impaired person places his finger 10 at a starting location on the front face 22 of the touch keyboard 2, with the aim of searching for the marking relief 25 by sliding his finger 10 on the front face 22. As long as the finger 10 slides on the front face 22, without remaining on a touch key 21 for more than the minimum contact time, then the processing unit 3 does not select any character. The visually impaired person slides his finger 10 from the starting location until reaching the marking relief 25 and therefore the touch key “5”.

[0123] Then, the visually impaired person can continue their sliding movement from the marking relief 25 (or from the touch key “5”) to the target touch key 21 which is for example the touch key “3” in the example previously presented; provided that the finger 10 does not remain in contact with this touch key “5” beyond the minimum contact duration. It is also conceivable that, once the marking relief 25 has been located, the visually impaired person lifts their finger 10 (to avoid lingering on the touch key “5”), and places it back in the same place to start sliding again to the target touch key 21.

[0124] Once the target touch key 21 is reached, the finger 10 remains in contact with the target touch key 21 for more than the minimum contact time in order to select the character associated with this target touch key 21.

[0125] The input system 1 may also comprise at least one feedback transmitter connected to the processing unit 3, such as for example a vibratory feedback transmitter and / or an audible feedback transmitter. In the example of [Fig. 3], the vibratory feedback transmitter corresponds to the vibratory alert transmitter 7, and the audible feedback transmitter corresponds to the audible alert transmitter 8; such that the processing unit 3 is configured to control this vibratory feedback transmitter 7 and / or this audible feedback transmitter 8 in order to produce a feedback signal, which is audible or vibratory, when the processing unit 3 selects a character in the secondary mode S.

[0126] Thus, in the example where the additional validation condition corresponds to a double contact on the same touch key 21, the visually impaired person is directly informed by the return signal that his second touch contact on the same touch key 21 has indeed resulted in the selection of the character associated with this touch key 21; and he can then calmly initiate a slide to go and find another touch key 21.

[0127] In the example where the additional validation condition corresponds to a long contact on the touch key 21, the visually impaired person is directly informed by the feedback signal that their touch contact has lasted long enough (beyond the minimum contact duration) on the touch key 21 and therefore has resulted in the selection of the character associated with this touch key 21; and he can then calmly initiate a slide to find another touch key 21.

Claims

Claims

1. Secure access control reader (9) comprising an input system (1) for entering a code comprising a sequence of characters, said input system (1) comprising: - a touch keyboard (2) provided with discrete touch keys (21) assigned to respective characters including at least numbers, each touch key (21) comprising a touch detection surface (24) and the touch detection surface (24) of at least one of the touch keys (21) is provided with a marking relief (25), said touch keyboard (2) being configured to generate key signals (20) in response to tactile contacts exerted by a finger (10) on the touch detection surfaces of the touch keys (21), each of the key signals (20) being associated with the touch key (21) on which the tactile contact is exerted; and - a processing unit (3) connected to the touch keyboard (2) for acquiring the key signals (20) generated by the touch keyboard (2), and configured to analyze said key signals (20) to select characters according to said key signals (20); wherein the processing unit (3) is configured to operate in two distinct modes which are: - a main mode (P), adapted to the indicators, in which the processing unit (3) is configured to select each of the characters by operating as follows: acquisition of a key signal (20) followed by an automatic allocation of the character which is assigned to the touch key (21) associated with said key signal (20), so that a character is automatically selected by a tactile contact of a finger (10) on the touch key (21) assigned to said character; and - a secondary mode (S) suitable for the visually impaired and in which the processing unit (3) is configured to select each of the characters as follows: acquisition of a key signal (20) followed by verification of an additional validation condition by analysis of the key signals, and allocation of the character which is assigned to the touch key (21) associated with said key signal (20) only if the additional validation condition is met, so that a character is selected by a tactile contact of a finger (10) on the touch key (21) assigned to said character followed by compliance with the associated additional validation condition; wherein the secure access control reader (9) is characterized in that it comprises at least one lateral approach sensor (4; 6) shaped to detect an approach action performed by a user in the form of an approach or contact of a hand (11) of the user on at least one side (23) of the touch keyboard (2), and in response to deliver an approach signal (40; 60), said at least one lateral approach sensor (4; 6) being distinct from the touch keys (21) of the touch keyboard (2), and wherein the processing unit (3) is connected to the at least one lateral approach sensor (4; 6) and is configured to switch from the main mode (P) to the secondary mode (S) upon receipt of the approach signal (40; 60) from the at least one lateral approach sensor (4; 6).

2. Secure access control reader (9) according to claim 1, wherein the processing unit (3) is configured to be by default in the main mode (P), in the absence of reception of the approach signal (40; 60) from the at least one lateral approach sensor (4; 6).

3. Secure access control reader (9) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the processing unit (3), when in secondary mode (S), is configured to automatically switch from secondary mode (S) to main mode (P) once the entry of the characters forming the code has been completed, for example after a predefined time delay.

4. Secure access control reader (9) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the processing unit (3), when in secondary mode (S), is configured to automatically switch from the secondary mode (S) to the main mode (P) if no key signal (20) is generated by the touch keypad (2) after a predefined period of time.

5. A secure access control reader (9) according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one lateral approach sensor (4; 6) comprises at least one side sensor (4) which is positioned on the at least one side (23) of the touch keypad (2).

6. A secure access control reader (9) according to claim 5, wherein the at least one side sensor (4) is selected from a capacitive sensor, an inductive sensor, a radar sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, an accelerometer, a camera and a mechanical sensor.

7. A secure access control reader (9) according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the at least one side sensor (4) comprises several side sensors arranged on several sides (23) of the touch keyboard (2), or a peripheral sensor extending on several sides (23) of the touch keyboard (2).

8. Secure access control reader (9) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one lateral approach sensor (4; 6) comprises at least one facade sensor (6) which is positioned on a front face (22) of the touch keyboard (2) on which the touch keys (21) are arranged, said facade sensor (6) having a detection field making it possible to detect the approach or contact of the user's hand (11) on the at least one side (23) of the touch keyboard (2).

9. A secure access control reader (9) according to claim 8, wherein the at least one facade sensor (6) is selected from a radar sensor, an ultrasonic sensor and a camera.

10. Secure access control reader (9) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the processing unit (3) is configured so that, in the secondary mode (S), following the acquisition of a key signal (20), called the first key signal (20), associated with a touch key (21) assigned to a character, the additional validation condition comprises the acquisition of a second key signal (20) associated with the same touch key (21) after a period without acquisition of a key signal (20) between the acquisitions of the first key signal (20) and the second key signal (20), so that a character is selected by a first touch contact of a finger (10) on the touch key (21) assigned to said character, followed by a removal of said finger (10), then followed by a second touch contact of the finger (10) on the same touch key (21) assigned to said character.

11. Secure access control reader (9) according to claim 10, wherein the processing unit (3) is configured so that, in the secondary mode (S), the additional validation condition also comprises a comparison between a maximum time threshold and the period between the acquisitions of the first key signal (20) and the second key signal (20), so that a character is selected by the first tactile contact of the finger (10) on the tactile key (21) assigned to said character, followed by a removal of said finger (10) and then followed by the second tactile contact of the finger (10) on the same tactile key (21) assigned to said character, within a time less than the time threshold. maximum between the first touch contact and the second touch contact.

12. Secure access control reader (9) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the processing unit (3) is configured so that, in the secondary mode (S), the additional validation condition comprises a minimum contact duration for the key signal (20), so that a character is selected by a tactile contact of a finger (10) on the tactile key (21) assigned to said character under the condition that this tactile contact lasts at least the minimum contact duration.

13. Secure access control reader (9) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the processing unit (3) is connected to at least one alert transmitter (7; 8), which is audible or vibratory, and the processing unit (3) is configured to drive the at least one alert transmitter (7; 8) in order to produce an alert signal, which is audible or vibratory, when said processing unit (3) switches from the main mode (P) to the secondary mode (S).

14. A secure access control reader (9) according to any preceding claim, wherein the processing unit (3) is connected to at least one return transmitter (7; 8), which is audible or vibratory, and the processing unit (3) is configured to, at least in the secondary mode (S), drive the at least one return transmitter (7; 8) to produce an audible or vibratory return signal, when the processing unit (3) selects a character.

15. An input method for entering a code comprising a sequence of characters, said input method being carried out on an input system (1) of a secure access control reader (9) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, and comprising: - generating key signals (20) in response to tactile contacts exerted by a finger (10) on the tactile detection surfaces of the tactile keys (21), each of the key signals (20) being associated with the tactile key (21) on which the tactile contact is exerted; - acquiring by the processing unit (3) the key signals (20) generated by the tactile keyboard (2); - analyzing by the processing unit (3) said key signals (20) to select characters according to said key signals (20); said input method comprising a main mode (P), adapted to the LEDs, in which the processing unit (3) carries out the following steps: to select each of the characters: acquisition of a key signal (20) followed by automatic assignment of the character which is assigned to the touch key (21) associated with said key signal (20), so that a character is automatically selected by a tactile contact of a finger (10) on the touch key (21) assigned to said character;said input method comprising a secondary mode (S), adapted for the visually impaired, in which the processing unit (3) carries out the following steps to select each of the characters: acquisition of a key signal (20) followed by a verification of an additional validation condition by analysis of the key signals, and allocation of the character which is assigned to the touch key (21) associated with said key signal (20) only if the additional validation condition is met, so that a character is selected by a tactile contact of a finger (10) on the touch key (21) assigned to said character followed by compliance with the associated additional validation condition; said input method comprising a step of switching from the main mode (P) to the secondary mode (S) upon receipt of at least one approach signal (40; 60) from the at least one lateral approach sensor (4;6) shaped to detect an approach action performed by a user in the form of an approach or contact of a hand (11) of the user on at least one side (23) of the touch keyboard (2), said at least one lateral approach sensor (4; 6) being distinct from the touch keys (21) of the touch keyboard (2).;

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