INTERACTION METHOD AND INTERACTION DEVICE

Abstract

INTERACTION METHOD AND INTERACTION DEVICE An interaction method comprises a computer (1) and a memory (3) storing software programs. A Human-Machine Interface (4) receives initial instructions from the computer (1) and sends subsequent instructions to the computer (1). The Human-Machine Interface (4) includes a reading module (8) and a plurality of objects (9) differentiated from one another by at least one characteristic. The characteristic of a first object (9) selected from among the plurality of objects (9) is read by means of the reading circuit (8). The characteristic is transmitted to the computer (1), which identifies a first software program from among said software programs and starts the first software program. The user provides additional information to the computer (1) from the Human-Machine Interface (4).

Description

Title of the invention: INTERACTION METHOD AND INTERACTION DEVICE technical field

[0001] The invention relates to a method of interaction between a user and a computer and to an interaction device capable of implementing such a method. Prior art

[0002] It has become commonplace to interact with a computer, smartphone, or tablet in order to browse the internet, write emails, or play audio or video files. The acceptance of computer technology appears all the easier and more intuitive when individuals are familiarized at a young age with the interfaces of the various operating systems and the software that runs on them.

[0003] In order to keep up with new uses and in view of the rate of penetration of these devices inside homes, the modes of communication with institutions as well as the modes of communication between individuals have evolved and have become overwhelmingly dematerialized.

[0004] However, for a segment of the population, computer skills are not acquired, and these individuals have difficulty using the software necessary for communicating with others or with government agencies, or for conducting research. Among the difficulties regularly encountered are differences in display and / or behavior between devices depending on whether one is interacting with a computer, a smartphone, or a tablet, or whether one is interacting from one operating system or another, or even whether one is using different updates of the same software or operating system. This is compounded by the plethora of software options and their update levels.

[0005] Given this situation, some people are unable to use the computer equipment available to them on their own and, for fear of damaging the equipment, choose not to use it. This is particularly true for some elderly people or people with disabilities.

[0006] A similar problem may exist for a much younger audience and for whom we seek to have the computer tool used in a certain autonomy while allowing the existing equipment to be used by children of different ages. Object of the invention

[0007] An object of the invention consists of providing an interaction method which makes interaction between a user and a computer easier for some software programs.

[0008] We tend to solve this problem by means of an interaction device comprising: - providing a computer equipped with a processor and at least one memory storing a set of software programs and a Human-Machine interface; in which the Human-Machine Interface is functionally connected to the computer so as to receive first instructions from the computer and issue second instructions to the computer, the Human-Machine Interface having a first main interface and a second main interface intended to receive at least one user instruction and transmit this at least one user instruction to the computer, and a secondary interface delivering content to the user from the computer.

[0009] The method is remarkable in that the first main interface comprises a reading module and a plurality of objects, the objects being differentiated from one another by at least one characteristic, the reading module being able to read at least said characteristic so as to differentiate the objects and provide information representative of the object measured to the computer; in which the process comprises the following successive steps: - read the characteristic of a first object selected from the plurality of objects using the reading circuit; -transmit the characteristic or information representative of the characteristic to the computer, said characteristic identifying a first software program of said software programs; - start, via the computer, the first identified software program and transmit corresponding content on the secondary interface; - deliver additional information to the computer from the second main interface.

[0010] Advantageously, at least one memory stores a lookup table between several software programs of said software programs and a plurality of identifiers and the computer uses the lookup table to identify the software program to start from the characteristic or information representative of the characteristic.

[0011] In a particular configuration, the characteristics of two objects from the plurality of objects identify two software programs chosen from: a word processor, an internet browser, a spreadsheet, a document reader in "Portable Document Format", an audio file player, a video file player, a a television channel distribution service, a film distribution service and a video conferencing software.

[0012] Preferably, the method comprises, after starting the first software program identified by the characteristic of the first object, reading the characteristic of a second object selected from the plurality of objects by means of the reading circuit so as to start a second software program or to parameterize the first software program.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the secondary interface includes at least one of a screen and a speaker.

[0014] The invention also relates to an interaction device that facilitates communication between a user and a computer for some simple and predefined operations.

[0015] This result is to be achieved by means of an interaction device comprising: - a computer equipped with at least one processor and at least one memory storing a set of software programs; - a Human-Machine interface functionally connected to the computer so as to receive first instructions from the computer and send second instructions to the computer; in which the Human-Machine interface has a first main interface and a second main interface intended to receive at least one user instruction and transmit this at least one user instruction to the computer, and a secondary interface delivering content to the user from the computer; in which the first main interface comprises a reading module and a plurality of objects, the objects being differentiated from one another by at least one characteristic, the reading module being capable of reading at least said characteristic so as to differentiate the objects and provide representative information of the measured object to the computer; in which the information representing the object read is an instruction ordering the computer to start a software program from among the plurality of software programs.

[0016] In a particular embodiment, each object includes a memory intended to store an identifier or an instruction.

[0017] Preferably, the object includes at least one of a USB port and an RFID tag.

[0018] In an advantageous embodiment, each of the objects has a shape and / or color different from the other objects. Brief description of the drawings

[0019] Other advantages and features will become clearer from the following description of particular embodiments and implementations of the invention given by way of non-limiting examples and shown in the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0020] [Fig-1]: [Fig.1] schematically illustrates a synoptic diagram of the steps in a process interaction;

[0021] [Fig.2] : [Fig.2] schematically illustrates a view of an interaction device. Description of the implementation methods

[0022] Figure 1 illustrates a method of interaction between a user and a computer 1 in order to perform one or more actions. The computer 1 is preferably chosen from among a computer, a tablet or a smartphone.

[0023] The computer 1 has a processing circuit 2, for example a microprocessor, and at least one memory 3. This memory 3 may include read-only memory and read-only memory. The memory 3 contains a set of programming instructions that can be read by the processing circuit 2 so as to run several distinct programs. The set of programming instructions defines an operating system that enables the computer 1 to function correctly. In addition to the operating system, there are software programs designed to perform tasks for the user.

[0024] The software programs preferably include one or more of the following programs: a word processor, a spreadsheet, an internet browser, an email client, an audio file player, a video file player, a document reader in "Portable Document Format", a television channel distribution service, a cinematographic works distribution service and a videophone software.

[0025] Each of these software programs is preferentially present on the calculator 1. To call one of these software programs, it is necessary to carry out several operations, that is to say several consecutive interactions with the calculator 1 in order to arrive at the identification of the file intended to start the desired program.

[0026] A simple way to access one's favorite software programs is to put them in a specific location on the "desktop" of computer 1. However, when computer 1 is shared, it is difficult to find a position that is unanimously agreed upon and a wrong move can cause one of the shortcuts on the "desktop" to disappear, which panics the users who follow.

[0027] In order to ensure interaction between the computer and the user, and the launching of the correct software program, a Human-Machine Interface 4 is used which is connected functionally to calculator 1 in order to provide it with information and also to receive information.

[0028] The Human-Machine interface 4 is functionally connected to the computer 1 so as to receive first instructions from the computer 1 and to issue second instructions to the computer 1. The Human-Machine interface 4 has a first main interface 5 and a second main interface 6 intended to receive at least one user instruction and to transmit this at least one user instruction to the computer 1. The Human-Machine interface 4 also includes a secondary interface 7 delivering content to the user from the computer 1, for example in visual or sound form.

[0029] The secondary interface 7 may include at least one screen for displaying images and / or at least one speaker for outputting sound. The secondary interface 7 may also include a printer for printing the document currently active in computer 1.

[0030] The second main interface 6 preferably has at least one of a keyboard and a mouse. Depending on the technology of the computer 1, the screen may or may not be touch-sensitive. If the screen is touch-sensitive, it can also be used to form a keyboard and / or a mouse and, more generally, as an interface for the user to receive instructions.

[0031] The first main interface 5 has a reading module 8 and a plurality of objects 9. The objects 9 are distinguished from one another by at least one characteristic, for example their size, color, weight, or data stored in memory. The reading module 8 is capable of reading at least this characteristic so as to differentiate the objects 9 and provide representative information about the object to the computer 1.

[0032] Preferably, the objects 9 have a memory that stores an identifier. The identifier is read by the reading module 8. For example, the object has an NFC tag and the reading module 8 is an NFC tag reader. Alternatively or in addition, the object 9 has a USB port connected to a memory and the reading module 8 has a USB port. Communication via Bluetooth or any other electromagnetic communication protocol is possible as long as the object is capable of communicating the information stored in its memory.

[0033] As soon as an object 9 is placed on or near the reading module 8, the reading module 8 reads the characteristic of the object 9. The characteristic read from the object 9 or information representative of it is sent directly to the computer 1. It is possible that the information is processed by the reading module 8 into an instruction usable by the computer 1.

[0034] For example, if the reading module 8 detects a first color, for example red, the reading module 8 can interpret this information as a first binary code. This first binary code can be interpreted as an instruction to launch an internet browser. Conversely, if the reading module 8 detects a second color, for example blue, the reading module 8 can interpret this information as a second binary code, which will itself be interpreted by the computer 8 as an instruction to launch video conferencing software.

[0035] The same can be true when the object has memory. The information stored in the memory is read and compared to a table to determine the action to be performed. For example, a code 01 is associated with an instruction to launch an internet browser, and a code 02 is associated with an instruction to launch video conferencing software. Alternatively, the information stored in the object's memory can be directly used by the computer to start a program and / or to apply parameters. More generally, each code can be associated with a specific instruction, for example, launching a program with possibly specific configurations.

[0036] The use of an object 9 equipped with memory is particularly advantageous because it allows the memory to be used to store specific information, for example, a username and password. The username / password pair stored in a first object can be used, for example, for a session of the computer 1, while the username / password pair of a second object can be used for a session of the internet browser to retrieve its bookmarks.

[0037] Object 9 is preferably of a substantial size so that it can be easily grasped and manipulated by people with declining or developing dexterity. Using a substantial object 9 facilitates its customization, for example with an image, allowing the user to identify object 9 with a "specific use" without having to remember the program name or the shape of the associated icon. This makes it possible to update the operating system, update the software program, or even change the software program or the operating system without altering the computer's operation for the end user. If necessary, it is simply a matter of re-establishing the links between the characteristics associated with the objects and the software programs stored in memory.

[0038] The memory of object 9 does not contain the instructions related to the program to be run, but only an identification code which allows the action to be performed to be identified, for example starting a particular program or modifying a parameter.

[0039] The interaction process can be summarized by means of the following steps:

[0040] In a first step SI, a computer 1 is provided, equipped with a processor 2 and at least one memory 3 storing a set of software programs and a Human-Machine Interface 4. The Human-Machine Interface 4 is functionally connected to the computer 1 so as to receive first instructions from the computer 1 and to issue second instructions to the computer 1. The Human-Machine Interface 4 has a first main interface 5 and a second main interface 6 intended to receive at least one user instruction and transmit this at least one user instruction to the computer 1, and a secondary interface 7 delivering content to the user from the computer 1.

[0041] As mentioned above, it is preferable that the first main interface 5 comprise a reading module 8 and a plurality of objects 9, the objects 9 being differentiated from one another by at least one characteristic. The reading module 8 is capable of reading at least said characteristic so as to differentiate the objects 9 and provide representative information about the measured object 9 to the computer 1.

[0042] The method further comprises the following successive steps. In a second step S2, the characteristic of a first object 9 selected from among the plurality of objects 9 is read by means of the reading circuit 8. In a third step S3, the characteristic or information representative of the characteristic is transmitted to the computer 1, said characteristic identifying a first software program of said software programs. In a fourth step S4, the first identified software program is initiated from the computer 1, and corresponding content is transmitted on the secondary interface. In a fifth step S5, additional information is delivered to the computer 1 from the second main interface.

[0043] Such a method can also be used in a school setting to allow a student to work on a specific software program while the teacher attends to other students. Providing the student with object 9 for reading via the reading module 8 requires the launch of a specific software program, or even a specific activity within a particular software program. The calculator 1 may contain several software programs in different levels and / or subjects. By means of object 9, the teacher is assured that the correct program will be started, and possibly in the correct subject and / or level, i.e., with the correct parameters. The teacher no longer needs to assist the student in starting calculator 1 and / or the program. The teacher can remain fully available to the other students. Object 9 can be used to identify the student.It is advantageous for the software program to record the student's progress during their previous logins, which allows them to be presented again with an exercise they had difficulty with and / or the exercise to follow in their progression plan.

[0044] Depending on the configuration, the Human-Machine Interface 4 may require that, by default, the computer's home screen be devoid of any icons. It is then mandatory to use an object 9 to start a program.

[0045] In a particular configuration, the reading of a first program is initiated after the reading module 8 reads the characteristic of a first object and transmits it to the computer 1. In one scenario, the first program can only run as long as the reading module is reading the characteristic of the first object. Alternatively, once the first program has started, removing the first object from its reading position by the reading module does not alter the operation of the first program. The user can still interact with the first program. For example, releasing the reading module allows the user to read an object associated with a print action on the current page or an object associated with an action to open a data directory, for example, a set of usernames and passwords.

[0046] Preferably, the program(s) of the computer 1 can be started without having to install an object 9, in particular apart from any possible limitation imposed by the Human-Machine Interface 4. In other words, the object 9 is not intended to prevent the operation of one or more software programs.

[0047] The object is not used to install a software program. The program has been previously installed and the object is only used to start the software and / or to apply specific settings, for example session identifiers.

[0048] When the reading module 8 has a USB port reader, and if the USB port is not reversible, it is advantageous to provide that the shape of the object 9 and the shape of the reading module 8 form a keying feature which imposes only one direction of insertion and which limits the forces applied to the USB port and the risks of damage.

[0049] After reading object 9 and starting the software program associated with object 9, the user is able to interact with the running software, for example by means of the keyboard and / or by means of the mouse and possibly by means of any other available interaction tool, for example a "joystick".

[0050] In addition to reading a first object 9 to start a first software program while the computer 1 is in standby mode, reading an object 9 can start a second software program in addition to the first software program that is currently in use. For example, a first object is used to start a word processing program, a spreadsheet program, or a drawing program. Reading a second object allows the printing of the currently active page to be initiated.

[0051] It is also possible to foresee that reading the first object triggers the starting of a software program, for example an internet browser, and that the Reading a second object results in the currently open software being configured with the previously saved settings for the user.

[0052] The first object can be common to several users while the second object is personal to the user.

[0053] The Human-Machine Interface may include a board containing the reading module 8, allowing the reading module 8 to be placed in a location more easily accessible to users. The board may be equipped with an additional processor that reads objects 9 and is configured to block any information not conforming to a predefined format. This prevents the reading of a third-party USB key.

Claims

Demands

1. A method of interaction between a computer (1) and a user comprising: - providing (IF) a computer (1) equipped with a processor (2) and at least one memory (3) storing a set of software programs and a Human-Machine Interface (4); wherein the Human-Machine Interface (4) is functionally connected to the computer (1) so as to receive first instructions from the computer (1) and issue second instructions to the computer (1), the Human-Machine Interface (4) having a first main interface (5) and a second main interface (6) intended to receive at least one user instruction and transmit this at least one user instruction to the computer (1), and a secondary interface (7) delivering content to the user from the computer (1);characterized in that the first main interface (5) comprises a reading module (8) and a plurality of objects (9), the objects (9) being differentiated from one another by at least one characteristic, the reading module (8) being capable of reading at least said characteristic so as to differentiate the objects (9) and provide information representative of the measured object (9) to the computer (1); in which the method comprises the following successive steps: - reading (S2) the characteristic of a first object (9) selected from the plurality of objects (9) by means of the reading module (8); - transmitting (S3) the characteristic or information representative of the characteristic to the computer (1), said characteristic identifying a first software program of said software programs; - starting (S4), by the computer (1), the first identified software program and transmitting corresponding content on the secondary interface (7);- deliver (S5) additional information to the computer (1) from the second main interface (6).;

2. An interaction method according to claim 1, wherein at least one memory (3) stores a lookup table between several software programs, said software programs, and a plurality of identifiers, and the computer (1) uses the table of correspondence to identify the software program to start from the characteristic or representative information of the characteristic.

3. An interaction method according to any one of claims 1 and 2 wherein the characteristics of two objects (9) from the plurality of objects (9) identify two software programs selected from: a word processor, an internet browser, a spreadsheet, a document reader in “Portable Document Format”, an audio file player, a video file player, a television channel distribution service, a cinematographic works distribution service and a videophone software.

4. An interaction method according to any one of claims 1 to 3 comprising, after starting the first software program identified by the characteristic of the first object (9), reading the characteristic of a second object (9) selected from the plurality of objects (9) by means of the reading module (8) so as to start a second software program.

5. An interaction method according to any one of claims 1 and 2 comprising, after starting the first software program identified by the characteristic of the first object (9), reading the characteristic of a second object (9) selected from the plurality of objects (9) by means of the reading module (8) so as to parameterize the first software program.

6. An interaction method according to any one of claims 1 to 5 in which the secondary interface (7) comprises at least one of a screen and a loudspeaker.

7. A communication device between a computer and a user comprising: - a computer (1) equipped with at least one processor (2) and at least one memory (3) storing a set of software programs; - a Human-Machine Interface (4) functionally connected to the computer (1) so as to receive first instructions from the computer (1) and send second instructions to the computer (1); wherein the Human-Machine Interface (4) has a first main interface (5) and a second main interface (6) intended to receive at least one user instruction and transmit this at least one user instruction to the computer (1), and a secondary interface (7) delivering content to the user from the computer (1); in which the first main interface (5) comprises a reading module (8) and a plurality of objects (9), the objects (9) being differentiated from one another by at least one characteristic, the reading module (8) being capable of reading at least said characteristic so as to differentiate the objects (9) and provide information representative of the object (9) measured to the computer (1); in which the information representative of the object (9) read is an instruction ordering the computer (1) to start a software program from among the plurality of software programs.

8. Communication device according to claim 7 in which each object includes a memory for storing an identifier or an instruction.

9. Communication device according to claim 8 in which the object comprises at least one of a USB port and an RFID tag.

10. Communication device according to any one of claims 7 to 8 wherein each of the objects (9) has a shape and / or color different from the other objects (9).

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