Secure access control reader comprising a system for entering a code with activation of a mode suitable for visually impaired persons

A secure access control reader comprising an entry system for entering a code comprising a sequence of characters, the entry system comprising:

• a tactile keyboard provided with discrete tactile keys assigned to respective characters including at least numbers, each tactile key comprising a tactile detection surface and the tactile detection surface of at least one of the tactile keys is provided with a locating relief, the tactile keyboard being configured to generate key signals in response to tactile contacts exerted by a finger on the tactile detection surfaces of the tactile keys, each of the key signals being associated with the tactile key on which the tactile contact is exerted;
• and
• a processing unit connected to the tactile keyboard to acquire the key signals generated by the tactile keyboard, and configured to analyze the key signals to select characters according to the key signals;
• wherein the processing unit is configured to operate in two distinct modes which are:
• a primary mode, suitable for sighted people, 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 tactile key associated with said key signal, so that a character is automatically selected by a tactile contact of a finger on the tactile key assigned to the character;
• and
• a secondary mode suitable for the visually impaired people and in which the processing unit is configured to select each of the characters as follows:
• acquisition of a key signal 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 tactile 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 tactile key assigned to the character followed by compliance with the associated additional validation condition;
• wherein the secure access control reader comprises at least one lateral approach sensor shaped to detect an approach action performed by a user in the form of an approach or a contact of a hand of the user on at least one side of the tactile keyboard, and in response to deliver an approach signal, the at least one lateral approach sensor being distinct from the tactile keys of the tactile keyboard,
• and wherein the processing unit is connected to the at least one lateral approach sensor and is configured to switch from the primary mode to the secondary mode upon receipt of the approach signal from the at least one lateral approach sensor.