WO2022023904A1

WO2022023904A1 - Data input and overlay device for use with a touchscreen

Info

Publication number: WO2022023904A1
Application number: PCT/IB2021/056659
Authority: WO
Inventors: Justin Pike
Original assignee: Mypinpad Limited; Licentia Group Limited
Priority date: 2020-07-27
Filing date: 2021-07-23
Publication date: 2022-02-03
Also published as: GB202011613D0

Abstract

The invention resides in a computer-implemented data input assistance system and method comprising: i) a touchscreen (11) associated with an electronic device (10); ii) a data input assistance device (1) comprising a body (2) for placement on or against the touchscreen and including at least one location indicator (3, 4, 5) arranged to facilitate contact by a user with the touchscreen; and iii) software operative to use the location of the user's contact with or relative to the touchscreen to determine at least one of: the location; size; configuration; and orientation of a virtual keypad. During use, the user contacts the screen at or on at least one location indicator to enable the system to determine, at least, the size or orientation of the assistance device relative to the screen.

Description

Data Input and Overlay Device For Use With A Touchscreen

Technical Field

This invention relates generally to techniques and devices for assisting data input by a user into an electronic device, and more particularly to facilitating, assisting and/or enabling data via a touch screen which can be provided in or on a mobile or portable electronic device. In one example, the data entry is performed by via an electronic, virtual keyboard/keypad provided in conjunction with the touch screen. The invention is particularly suited, but not limited to, use in facilitating data entry by disabled individuals such as the visually impaired or for use in poorly lit environments. It is also suited for, but not limited to, applications wherein authentication of a user is required before allowing access to a controlled resource.

Background

Virtual keypads have been known for some as data input mechanisms in respect of electronic devices, typically in conjunction with a touch screen. In use, a representation of the keypad is presented within an input zone of the screen (also called a “display zone”), and the user selects a desired input (typically a key with an associated symbol or indicia associated with it) by touching the relevant portion of the screen. The touch may be with a finger or body part, or a touching device if the user is physically impaired or disabled in some way. Either way, contact is made by the user with the surface of the screen. The input zone of the screen is divided up into hot spots, each having a sensor placed below it, so that contact can be detected. However, certain application, environmental or user- related constraints may pose challenges for the use of virtual keypads. For example, technical challenges may include, but not limited to, the need to specify or alter where in the display zone the virtual keypad is provided, specify its size and/or configuration, and/or track its location/orientation during use.

PCT application PCT/GB2020/051804 and US 9,965, 116 disclose overlay arrangements for aiding the input of data into electronic devices having a touch screen. Similarly, EP 2966539 A1 discloses a detachable keyboard used as an overlay over a virtual keyboard of a touchscreen. However, in these known arrangements, the size, location, or orientation of the overlay is communicated to the electronic device via conductive legs, pressable keys comprising conductors, or conductive dots that are embedded into the device and flush with the surface. US 202/0117862 discloses a device with pressable buttons that have braille dot embossed on them, the device being configured to fix over a card reading terminal that it electrically connects to and the terminal draws a keypad under the physical buttons. Such arrangements may not be simple to manufacture, may require significant additional or more costly resources or may restrict the nature of the materials used for the overlay.

Thus, it is desirable to provide an improved data entry assistance solution which facilitates, guides or enables the input of data by a user into an electronic device. Improvements provided by the solutions should ideally include (for example): improved ease of use; improved efficiency of storage, transportation or manufacture, improved accuracy of identification or communication of desired inputs; reduced input errors due to improved identification/communication and therefore fewer processing resources required by the device as a result of handling erroneous inputs. There is also a need for a data input assistance solution or aid which is less costly to manufacture, simple to use and easy to transport and store, can be used by users in a variety of ways with varying degrees of physical abilities, and/or with touchscreens that utilise commonly utilised technologies. Such an improved solution has now been devised which addresses at least (but not only) these technical problems and provides at least (but not only) these technical advantages.

Summary

In accordance with the present disclosure, devices, systems and methods are provided as defined in the appended claims.

In accordance with the disclosure there may be provided a device, a computer- implemented method and corresponding computer-implemented and system. The method/system/device may be referred to as a control method/system/device, a data input method/system/device. Additionally, or alternatively, these may be referred to as a verification and/or authentication device/method/system.

In accordance with the disclosure there may be provided a device, a computer- implemented method and corresponding computer-implemented and system. The method/system/device may be referred to as a control method/system/device, a data input and/or an input assistance method/system/device. It may be arranged or operative to guide, assist, facilitate and/or enable entry of data by a (human) user into an electronic device. The electronic device may be a computer-based device comprising one or more processors. The electronic device may comprise a secure or hardened storage or processing element, such as a TEE or TUI or Secure element. The virtual input component may be generated in, by or in association with the secure storage or processing element. Any feature described below in relation to examples of the device may also be applicable to examples of the system and/or method, and vice versa, but may not be explicitly described as such for the sake of brevity and clarity only.

The disclosure may comprise a device. This may be referred to as an overlay, location aid, input aid, data entry aid and/or guide. The device can aid the generation and/or tracking of a virtual input component such as a virtual keypad or keyboard etc. Additionally, or alternatively, it may be referred to as a (data) input assistance or aid device, or a virtual data input assistance device overlay. The device is arranged to aid or facilitate entry of at least one input item by a user into an electronic device. Additionally, or alternatively, it may be referred to as a device for controlling or at least influencing the generation of virtual input arrangement/component on or in association with a touchscreen.

According to an aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a computer-implemented data input assistance system comprising: a touchscreen comprising a display zone and associated with an electronic device; a data input assistance device comprising a body for placement on or against the touchscreen. The body may include at least one location indicator arranged to facilitate (direct) contact by a user with (a surface of) the touchscreen. The location indicator may facilitate, enable or allow direct contact with the touchscreen by the user. The contact may be facilitated at a given location on the touchscreen determined by the shape or configuration of the at least one location indicator. For example, at least one location indicator may be a cut out, window or aperture, the shape, configuration and/or size of which defines an area or zone on the touchscreen that is contactable by the user. Thus, the location indicator may comprise a cut out, window or aperture which exposes the surface of the touch screen such that a user may make direct contact with the touch screen through the opening of the location indicator. The location indicator(s) may enable communication of the shape, size, configuration and/or orientation of the data input assistance device to the electronic device.

This is in contrast to prior art arrangements which disclose the use of a conductive material or medium disposed in or on the body of the device and through which the location, size, orientation etc is communicated to the device.

The system may also comprise software operative to use the location of the user’s contact with the touchscreen to determine at least one of: the location; size; configuration; and orientation of a virtual keypad. The software may be installed or provided for execution on the electronic device. The touchscreen may be provided on, as part of, within and/or in association with the electronic device. The virtual keypad may be displayed or provided on the touchscreen. The virtual keypad may be provided or generated, in response to the user’s contact with the touch screen through the location indicator(s) in such a manner that the data input assistance device overlies and/or aligns at least substantially with the virtual keypad on the touchscreen.

The data input assistance device may comprise: i) a shield or shroud; this may be arranged to hide or obscure operation of the electronic device from view by an observer; and/or ii) at least one connection means for connection of a shield or shroud to the data input assistance device.

Thus, the data input assistance device may comprise a shield (alternatively referred to as a shroud) which may be permanently or removably attached to at least one portion of the (body of the) device. The shield may be arranged to hide or obscure operation of the electronic device from view by an observer.

Additionally, or alternatively, the data input assistance device may comprise at least one device positioning component for maintaining the assistance device in a position relative to the touchscreen. The device positioning component may be arranged to maintain the data input assistance device in a position relative to the touchscreen in a non-permanent, removable manner. The device positioning component may be or comprise one or more discrete portions of material arranged to adhere the data input assistance device to the touchscreen, preferably in a removable or slideable manner. The device positioning component may be smaller than the body of the input assistance device. This provides the advantage that the body itself or a substantial portion thereof may be made of or comprise a material selected for a variety of beneficial factors such as low cost, lightweight, flexibility etc. and only a small amount of material used for maintenance of the body against the touchscreen. This not only leads to a more versatile input device but can also reduce cost and resources compared to prior art arrangements in which the whole or majority of the body is made from or covered by a position maintaining material e.g. glue or adhesive film.

Additionally, or alternatively, the at least one device positioning component can be or can comprise at least one of: an aperture or recess; a void; a fixative substance; and means for holding the data input assistance device against or adjacent to the touchscreen during use. The at least one device positioning component can be arranged or can be operative to enable the user to indicate to software executing on the device that a process should be executed or initiated. The at least one device positioning component may be arranged such that it does not comprise a conductive material or substance, or a mechanically moveable component.

A user can interact with the location indicator of the data input assistance device to touch the screen in either (i) a static manner, in which a user presses the touchscreen, and/or (ii) in a dynamic manner in which the user moves their finger or across the screen. A dynamic movement can trace an outside perimeter edge of the data input assistance device, or the perimeter of an aperture, such as a slot or shape, within the perimeter boundaries. A slot or shape can extend from a perimeter edge towards the middle of the data input assistance device. Dynamic movements can provide an information derived from a single contact with a touchscreen, while being easier for a user to perform. The required dynamic movement can be in two dimensions upon the touchscreen. Therefore, the fingers of a user can be pressed and/or moved in relation to a location indicator and, for example, the size and shape of the location indicator determines the contact with the touchscreen such that a virtual keypad can be positioned aligned with the data input assistance device. The software can be installed and/or arranged for execution on the electronic device. Additionally, or alternatively, the software can be installed and/or arranged to be further operative to generate the virtual keypad based on data and/or a signal derived from the contact of the user’s body with the touchscreen. The touchscreen can be or can comprise a capacitive touch screen or capacitive touchscreen zone. The electronic device can comprise a trusted execution environment and/or a secure memory component. The at least one of the location, size and orientation of the virtual keypad can be determined relative to the display zone and/or the data input assistance device. This can be determined from user actuation of the touchscreen by a user using the features of the data input assistance device as a guide.

Embodiments of the disclosure may be arranged to provide non-visual feedback to a user. For example, an audible message may be provided to assist the user in using the overlay device and/or performing a process such as a verification process or financial transaction. For example, a message may be communicated to the user advising them when, how or where to place the overlay on the screen; or what and when to enter input, when to remove the overlay, which stage in the process they are currently at such as “your identifier is being/has been accepted” or “your transaction is being processed, please wait”. Such audible communications may be may via any type of output device such as a speaker or headphones etc. The output device may be coupled to or integrally formed with the electronic device or arranged for wireless communication with it such as NFC, Bluetooth, WiFi etc.

The data input assistance device can be arranged or configured to facilitate input of data by the user into the electronic device via the touchscreen. The data input assistance device can be non-conductive and/or unpowered, either in part or in entirety. The data input assistance device can be passive. The data input assistance device can be made of insulating material such that operation of the touchscreen is only possible via direct user contact with the touchscreen e.g. through a cut out or aperture provided in the device. This provides the advantage that conductive location indicators are not required for communication of the size, orientation and/or layout of the virtual keypad to the device. The data input assistance device can further comprise at least one input zone provided in association with the body and arranged to facilitate or enable the user to input the data into the electronic device by detection of a signal derived from the user. The at least one input zone can comprise: an aperture or recess; and/or an aperture or recess comprising at least one of a bevelled, angled, raised and tilted feature. In one or more embodiments, one or more input zones may also serve as a location indicator or vice versa. Therefore, an aperture may serve the dual functionality of both an input zone and a location indicator. The input zone(s) may thus be combined with the location indicator(s).

The electronic device can be or can comprise: a mobile, portable and/or handheld device such as a smart phone, tablet, card reading terminal or device, or laptop and/or a payment terminal.

The data input assistance device can comprise: at least one reference marker for communication of a location or point on the body to a user, wherein the at least one reference marker is provided in, on or via at least one input zone provided in association with the body and arranged to facilitate or enable the user to input the data into the electronic device by contact with the touchscreen.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a data input assistance device for facilitating input of data by a user via a touchscreen into an electronic device, comprising a body for placement on or adjacent to the touchscreen, the body comprising:

• at least one location indicator arranged to facilitate communication, to the electronic device, at least one of: the location; size; configuration; and orientation of a virtual keypad; and/or

• at least one device positioning component for maintaining the device in a position relative to the touchscreen.

The data input assistance device can have a location indicator that is at least one of: an elongate slot; an elongate slot having an angled bend, such as a 90-degree bend; an internal perimeter edge, which can define a shape; an elongate slot having a curved portion; or a featured perimeter edge. As described above, and appreciable in light of the teaching herein, movement of a user’s finger along one of these slots or perimeter edges requires less co-ordination.

The internal perimeter edge can define a shape such as a circle, triangle or kite. A user tracing the internal perimeter edge of a shape can effectively draw said shape on the touchscreen as if the data input assistance device functions as a template. The shape can be a logo or brand related shape/image..

According to another aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a method for facilitating input of data by a user into an electronic device, comprising: providing or using a data input system or device arranged in accordance with any embodiment described or claimed herein.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a method of facilitating input of data by a user into an electronic device, comprising: using data communicated from the user via an data input assistance device as claimed to provide a virtual keypad on the electronic device at a location relative to the touchscreen and/or with a configuration/orientation .

According to another aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a non-transitory computer- readable storage medium having stored thereon executable instructions that, as a result of being executed by a processor of a computer system, cause the computer system to perform any of the computer-implemented methods described or claimed herein.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, there is provided an electronic device for receiving input of data from a user via a touchscreen and a data input assistance device, as claimed, for facilitating input of data by a user to the touchscreen, wherein the data input assistance device is movably connected to the device between: a first position in which the data input assistance device lies upon the screen; and a second position in which the data input assistance device is positioned off-screen to allow unrestricted access to the touchscreen. According to another aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a plurality of data input assistance devices, as claimed, arranged in at least one of a pack, pad, stack of sheets or roll of repositionable data input assistance devices having, at least in part, a reusable sticky rear face portion.

An illustrative embodiment of the disclosure, in accordance with one aspect, may be described as a computer-implemented data input assistance system comprising: a touchscreen comprising a display zone and associated with an electronic device; a data input assistance device comprising a body for placement on or against the touchscreen and including at least one location indicator arranged to facilitate contact by a user with the touchscreen; and software operative to use the location of the user’s contact with the touchscreen to determine at least one of: the location; size; configuration; and orientation of a virtual keypad.

Any other feature(s) described above/below or claimed herein may be used in conjunction with the system.

According to an aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a computer implemented system arranged to perform any method step or combination of method steps described or claimed herein. Examples of the disclosure provide a computer system or network comprising at least one device which comprises: a processor; and memory including executable instructions that, as a result of execution by the processor, causes the system to perform any variation of the computer-implemented method claimed or described herein.

According to an aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a non-transitory computer- readable storage medium having stored thereon executable instructions that, as a result of being executed by a processor of a computer system, cause the computer system to perform any version of the computer-implemented method claimed or described herein.

Additionally, or alternatively, embodiments in accordance with one aspect of the disclosure may provide a data input assistance device comprising: a body for placement adjacent to a touch screen of an electronic device; and at least one input zone provided in or on the body and arranged to facilitate or enable a user to operate an area of the touch screen by contact with the screen; and also comprising i) a shield or shroud; and/or ii) at least one connection means for connection of a shield or shroud to the data input assistance device.

Thus, the data input assistance device may comprise a shield (alternatively referred to as a shroud) which may be permanently or removably attached to at least one portion of the (body of the) device. The shield may be arranged to hide or obscure operation of the electronic device from view by an observer. In some embodiments, the data input device may be largely as described above or herein, and may comprise any feature(s) disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the data input assistance device may comprise at least one location indicator arranged to communicate, to a software component associated with the electronic device, the location of a portion of the input assistance device relative to the touch screen.

The area of the touch screen may be, provide and/or function as a key of a virtual input component, preferably wherein the virtual input component is a virtual keypad, a virtual pinpad, virtual keypad or a virtual keyboard.

At least a portion of the body, at least one location indicator and/or at least one input zone may comprise an electro conductive material.

At least one input zone may: i) comprise at least one aperture arranged to expose the screen and enable contact with the screen by a user; and/or iii) comprise an area which is arranged to conduct an electrical signal to the touch screen for detection by a sensor; and or iii) not comprise a barrier between the surface of the touch screen and the user; and/or iv) be spaced from the surface of the touch screen.

The body may comprise: i) at least one layer of a material through which a signal or energy derived from a user’s body can be transmitted or conducted to the touch screen and/or ii) a reference marker for tactile or audible communication of a location on the body to a user via touch or sound; and/or iii) a rear surface which: in use is spaced from the surface of the touch screen, by the at least one location indicator; and/or in use faces the surface of the touch screen; and/or comprises a layer, portion or coating of a material or substance which prohibits or impedes transmission of a signal from the user’s body to the surface of the touch screen.

The reference marker may comprise a raised, indented or grooved portion relative to the body, and/or an audible signal upon detection of contact by a user. The data input assistance device: i) may not be fixed, adhered or maintained in position relative to the electronic device during or before or after use; and/or ii) comprise a plurality of location indicators; and/or iii) comprises an offset marker arranged to adjust or alter a data value received into/by, or interpreted as input by, the software component by a specified value.

The at least one location indicator may: i) comprise a protrusion or raised portion which projects from the body; and/or ii) be arranged to hold or position the body or a portion thereof away from, spaced from or adjacent to the touch screen and/or iii) be provided on the body separately from the at least one input zone.

The device may comprise a shield arranged to hide or obscure operation of the electronic device from view by an observer.

There may also be provided: a data input assistance device comprising: a body for placement adjacent to a touch screen of an electronic device, the body comprising: at least one input zone arranged to facilitate or enable a user to operate an area of the touch screen by transmission of a signal or energy from the user’s body as a result of contact with the touch screen; and a rear surface which, in use, faces a surface of the touch screen and comprises: i) a layer, portion or coating of a material or substance which prohibits or impedes transmission of a signal or energy from the user’s body to the surface of the touch screen; and ii) at least one location indicator which enables or facilitates transmission of a signal or energy from the user’s body to the surface of the touch screen for communication, to a software component associated with the electronic device, the location of a portion of the input assistance device relative to the touch screen; and also comprising i) a shield or shroud provided on, at or in association with the body; and/or ii) at least one connection means for connection of a shield or shroud to the data input assistance device.

Thus, the input assistance device may comprise a shield (alternatively referred to as a shroud) which may be permanently or removably attached to at least one portion of the (body of the) device. The shield may be arranged to hide or obscure operation of the electronic device from view by an observer.

There may also be provided: a data input assistance system comprising: a data input assistance device according to any embodiment claimed, described or disclosed herein; and a software component arranged for execution on an electronic device associated with a touch screen, and arranged to provide a virtual input component on the device at a location based on the position of the location indicator.

There may also be provided: a data input assistance method comprising the steps of: providing a software component operative to provide a virtual input component at a location on a touch screen of and/or associated with an electronic device, the location being specified or influenced by a location indicator of a data input assistance device in accordance with any embodiment described, claimed or disclosed herein.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Aspects and examples of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, and with reference to the accompany drawings, in which:

Figure 1 shows a data input assistance device in accordance with an illustrative example of the disclosure;

Figure 2 shows a location indicator in the form of an angled slot;

Figure 3 shows a location indicator in the form of a curved slot;

Figure 4 shows a location indicator in the form of a shaped triangular recess slot;

Figure 5 shows a location indicator in the form of a shaped peripheral edge of the data input assistance device; and

Figure 6 shows an alternative example of the device of Figure 1 in use with a mobile phone.

Illustrative Examples & Detailed Description

With reference to Figures 1 and 2, we now describe examples of the disclosure for the purposes of explanation and illustration. The invention provides systems, methods and devices for enabling or facilitating a user to input data into an electronic device.

In certain examples, the electronic device 10 is a portable, handheld and/or mobile device such as a mobile phone, tablet, laptop, payment device, and/or card reading device etc. In other examples, however, the electronic device 10 may not be portable or handheld. For ease of reference only, we will refer hereafter to the electronic device as a mobile phone. In one or more examples, the electronic device comprises, or is operative to communicate with via physical or wireless means, a portion of secure memory and/or or secure storage component such as a Trusted Execution Environment (TTE) or Hardware Secure Module (HSM). Software relating to the disclosure may be installed and or executed within or in association with the secure environment. This provides the advantage of enhanced security of sensitive data such as the user’s input and/or other sensitive data.

The disclosure provides an assistance device 1 that comprises a body 2 and enables a (human) user to enter data into the phone 10 via contact with the surface of a touch sensitive screen 11. The screen in this illustrative example is a capacitive touch screen which senses electrical impulses from a user’s contact. The contact can be either by a human user’s body e.g. finger or by a suitably arranged data input assistance device. The user is able to make direct contact with the screen through the input assistance device i.e. the input assistance device comprises at least one portion which does not form a barrier or serve as an intermediary shield/membrane/cover between the user’s touch and the screen. In an example, the entire body 2 is non-powered, non-conductive and/or non-energised. Therefore, the entire device body 2 can prevent communication of the signal/energy from the user to the screen. In another example, though, at least part of the body prevents or inhibits the transmission of signals or energy from the user’s body to the touchscreen. Software is provided on the phone 10 which enables a virtual keypad to be provided for receipt of input data from the user. The virtual keypad is generated by calling a subroutine or other piece of code which generates the virtual keypad. The keypad comprises a plurality of keys, each of which is associated with a different symbol. When the user selects a given key by touching the screen, the symbol associated with that key is entered into memory within the electronic device.

The input assistance device 1 comprises one or more input zones 3 which enable the user to enter the data into the phone through the input assistance device 1. In an example, these may comprise apertures, windows, cut outs, recesses or other portions which allow the user to make direct contact with the touchscreen either by using a body part such as a finger or via an data input assistance device arranged to convey a signal or energy derived from the user’s body e.g. stylus. In some examples the input zone(s) may comprise a conductive material that enables the touchscreen to detect the user’s input through the conductive material. This can be beneficial in environments where the ingress of moisture, dirt etc needs to be inhibited or prevented. However, in a preferred example the input zone(s) enable data input via contact of the screen’s surface by the user. This may be direct contact between the user and the screen. The term “direct contact” as used herein is intended to include the meaning that the input zone does not pose or provide an impediment to the user’s contact of the screen, without their being an intermediary substance or medium. This contact can be made either by the user’s physical body e.g. finger or a suitably arranged pointing device such as a stylus or stick arranged to act as their finger and facilitate transmission of energy/signals from the user’s body. This contrasts with known overlay arrangements which use a conductive material provided in a depressible key or on the body of the overlay device to convey the signal to the surface of the touch screen. Advantageously, the present invention provides a simpler arrangement which is less costly and simpler to manufacture, and requires fewer resources and can be made of a wider range of materials. The present invention does not need to comprise conductive materials or components.

Figures 1 and 2 show a data input assistance device arranged for use in conjunction with a typical configuration of a virtual keypad, and comprising 12 input zones (10 round and 2 square input zones in the illustrative examples shown in the Figures). The input zones 3 are arranged and configured to correspond to the layout of keys in a virtual keypad/pinpad/keyboard. Thus, when the assistance device 1 is positioned on or adjacent to the touchscreen in use, the keys of the virtual keypad align/correspond with the input zones 3. In this way, the user is able to operate the virtual keypad that is provided on the mobile phone 10 via the input zone(s) by direct contact with the screen.

The input assistance device 1 is arranged such that the user is able to communicate a signal (data) to the electronic device that can be used to determine where, relative to the touchscreen 11, a virtual keypad should be provided. In some examples, data pertaining to the size and/or the configuration of the virtual keypad, and/or the orientation of the virtual keypad is also communicated. Software installed on the electronic device is arranged to detect the communicated data from the user and provide the virtual keypad on the touchscreen in accordance with the user’s instruction(s). The virtual keypad may align with the input assistance device that is overlaid on it.

One or more location indicators 3, 4, 5 are provided on the body to facilitate this communication from the user to the phone. The or each location indicator 3, 4, 5 is a passive element of the device providing access for a user to contact a surface beneath. These can be provided in a variety of ways, either by the input zones 3 and/or by separate location indication components 4, 5. In some examples, the location indicators 3, 4, 5 are provided with tactile features or components which are detectable to the user via non visual means such as raised or embossed portions e.g. dots or lines or patterns, or a raised or bevelled border. The touchscreen is able to detect the position of the user’s touch at the location indicator(s) and uses the position-related data derived from the user to generate a keypad with the appropriate dimensions, layout, size and/or position relative to the touchscreen such that the keys of the virtual keypad are presented in alignment with the input zones 3. Thus, software on the electronic device is arranged to listen and monitor for the user’s touch or multiple touches. When the touches are detected, the software can use data such as positional data relating to the touches to generate the virtual keypad with the desired attributes and at the indicated location on the screen. The position and spacing of the location indicator(s) 3, 4, 5 within or on the body 2 provides the software on the electronic device with the information required for it to generate that virtual keypad at the correct location and with the necessary configuration.

The location indicators may be provided by one or more notches, openings or cut outs 4 provided at or towards respective edges of the body as seen in Figure 1. In such examples, the edge of the device body is indented or arranged such that it can be detected or located on the device body via tactile means. In use, the user detects the notches 4 and places his/her fingers on the edges of the device body 2 at the indicated locations. In another example, the location indicators may be provided as one or more cut out portions, apertures or recesses 5 within the body itself rather than a notch 4 at the edge.

In yet another example, one but preferably more of the input zones 3 may comprise and/or serve as location indicators for the purpose of providing data to the software regarding the location, layout, configuration etc of the virtual keypad. In such an example, one or more input zones 3 within a plurality of input zones may be designated as location indicators for this purpose. For example, the device body may be provided with a grid of input zones 3 as shown in Figure 1. When the user simultaneously touches the screen through the openings at the top left and bottom right of the grid, for example, this combination of locations can be interpreted by the software on the electronic device as positional data relating to where the virtual keypad needs to be provided and what size etc. Thus, an input zone may serve as a location indicator, providing a dual functionality.

Figures 2 to 5 are examples of location indicators 4, 5 having like features to those shown in Figure 1, and further require a dynamic movement from a user to indicate at least one of the location; size; configuration; and orientation of a virtual keypad. These location indicators 4,5 are elongate slots or featured perimeter edges of the device 1, wherein, in use, a user identifies a location indicator and then moves their finger along the indicator tracing its perimeter. The movement is detected by a screen and the shape of the indicator and/or format of the data input assistance device 1 determined therefrom.

Figures 2 and 3 are examples of indicators 5 that are contained within the perimeter edge of the data input assistance device 1, although the slot can be arranged to extend from the perimeter edge, as indicated by the hashed line in Figure 3. The slot can be shaped having a long and narrow profile such that a user’s finger simultaneously contacts the parallel edges of the slot. The slot can be straight or can be recti-linear with an angled bend, as shown in Figure 2. Alternatively, the slot can be curved, at least in part, as shown in Figure 3.

As an alternative to a slot, the location indicator 5 can be a shape, such as a triangle, as shown in Figure 4. The shape can be any shape, such as a circle, square, hexagon or even alphanumeric, such as the Greek letter omega. The shape defines an aperture that is larger than a user’s finger such that they cannot contact opposite sides simultaneously. By following the perimeter of the shape with their finger a user can dynamically trace a shape that can be identified by the screen.

Figure 5 illustrates a further example in which a user can move their finger to dynamically trace a location indicator 5 on the data input assistance device 1, wherein the location indicator is located on an external peripheral edge of the device 1. In the example of Figure 5 the location indicator has, by way of example, a curved wave-like form. Alternatively, the location indicator can have a saw-tooth or square-waved profile.

One or more of the location indicators 4, 5 shown in Figures 1 to 5 can be combined. By way of example, two or more peripheral edges of the data input assistance device 1 can have location indicators 4. Differently shaped indicators can be arranged on different sides.

In all examples, though, the location indicators 3, 4, 5 enable the user to instruct the software via contact with the touchscreen so that the software can determine where and how to provide the virtual keypad in relation to the display zone of the touch screen. As the location indicators 3, 4, 5 enable the user to communicate/indicate the location and layout/configuration of the virtual keypad via contact between the user and the screen 11 rather than this being communicated by the body/data input assistance device, the body 2 does not need to be powered, conductive or energised. In fact, it would be disadvantageous if the body of the assistance device was conductive or energised in some way as this would enable misleading or incorrect data to be communicated to the screen or the software. Therefore, it is advantageous for the device body 2 to provide a blocking or impeding presence so that the energy or signal from the user is not transmitted to at least a portion of the touchscreen. By way of example, the body 2 can be made of an insulating material that inhibits a user’s touch therethrough. In an example, the entire device body 2 is not conductive and not energisable so the user’s selections can only be communicated to the touchscreen via the open input zones 3.

This provides the advantage that the assistance device 1 or at least a portion of it can be made of a greater variety of materials, and thus a more versatile solution is provided compared to the prior art. For example, the body 2 may comprise, in part or entirety, paper, plastic, card, cardboard, wood, bamboo or any other suitable material. The body can comprise a material that is lightweight, easy to store and/or transport, and cheap to manufacture. Advantageously, the ability to manufacture the device from non- powered/energised materials means that the device 1 may be provided as a disposable but environmentally friendly solution e.g. if made from bamboo, paper or card.

Additionally, or alternatively, the body can be provided with a device positioning component 5, 8 for maintaining the body 2 against or in proximity /adjacent to the touchscreen 11. In Figures 1 and 2 this is shown as a pair of apertures 5 positioned towards one side of the body. In use, the user is able to hold the body 2 in position relative to the screen 11 by pressing against, over or through the aperture(s) 5. The same functionality can also be achieved using the notches 4 at the edge of the body 2. Thus, in some examples the location indicator(s) may provide a dual functionality and also serve as device positioning components and vice versa. In Figure 2, a position maintenance component 8 such as a portion of adhesive, sticky, holding or fixative material is shown in the form of a strip of glue 8 at or towards at least one edge of the body. In other examples, the material may be provided in other shapes and sizes, and may cover some, all or part of the body. The device positioning component 8 can be provided on a portion (e.g. side or face) of the body that is to be held against or adjacent to the touchscreen in use. This portion may be referred to as the “back” or “rear” of the device as it faces and touches the touchscreen rather than the user in use. By contrast, a portion of the device (e.g. side/face of the body) that faces the user in use may be referred to as the “front”. This position maintenance component 8 can be advantageous for users who are missing one or both arms and are, therefore, unable to manually hold the assistance device in place during use.

The front of the body is provided with reference markers 6, 9 which enable the user to identify a particular point, location or region on the body. This is especially helpful for blind or visually impaired users, or users in poorly lit environments, who may have difficulty in visually locating the keys/input zones. In one or more examples, the reference marker(s) can take the form of one or more input zones which are altered in some way to distinguish them from the other input zones. In Figure 1, this is shown as two square input zones 6 in the locations of the 5 and 8 keys on a standard keypad layout. This enables the user to feel the reference marker(s). Once the user has identified the reference marker 6, (s)he can deduce the position of the other keys/zones relative to that marker. In Figure 2, raised dots 9 are shown as reference markers to enable the user to identify, through touch, the individual rows of input zones (and thus underlying virtual keys in use).

An advantage of the reference markers 6 & 9, device positioning components 5 & 8 and location indicators 4 & 5, shown in Figures 1 and 2, is that they can be used for their described purposes regardless of which way up the input assistance device 1 is positioned relative to the touchscreen 11. Thus, the input assistance device is usable by left or right- handed users without the need for adaption.

The front of the body 2 may be provided with tactile components such as embossed or raised portions, for non-visual recognition by a user. For example, in Figures 1 and 2 the << and >> symbols 7 are used to indicate the back/delete and forwards/enter keys respectively. Dots, including for example Braille symbols, may be provided on the body to communicate information to the user. The user may indicate, for example, a row/column/key position relative to the other rows/columns/keys, or other information.

At least the rear surface of the body 2 of the device 1 can be substantially flat or level. The body of the device can be configured to extend in a planar direction parallel to the surface of a screen. Thus, the rear surface of the body 2 and/or input zones 3 lie against and in contact with the screen in use. The rear surface may be devoid of raised or projecting portions. This contrasts with other arrangements which need to provide raised portions such as legs or stabilisers to hold a conductive rear surface or input zone of the device away from the surface of the touchscreen to prevent unintended and extraneous signals being detected from the user’s handling of the data input assistance device.

The advantage of having a substantially level or uniform rear surface is that it provides stability during use, as the user is entering their input data via the input zones 3. It also provides the advantage of enabling a simpler, less costly solution for manufacture, storage and transportation purposes. Further still, it provides the benefit of ease of input for the user, because there is less or no gap between the input zones and the screen and so the user does not need as much pressure or strength to press their finger into the input zone to make contact with the screen during input. This is advantageous for disabled users having reduced physical strength.

In-Use Example

In the following use case, we provide an example wherein the invention is used to enter secret or sensitive data (which we may refer to for example as a “PIN”) for the purpose of verifying their identity before gaining access to a controlled resource e.g. bank account, building, vehicle etc. It should be noted that this use case is provided for illustration only and the invention is not limited with regard to this example. The data may be any form of data - numeric, alphanumeric, symbol, letter, image etc. In accordance with examples of the disclosure, the input may be used for any purpose upon entry into the electronic device such as, for example, use during an authentication session. Consider a scenario in which a user wishes to use a keypad on a large, touchscreen-enabled electronic device such as those used for ordering menu items in a fast food restaurant without the assistance of member of staff. In such known situations, when the user wishes to conclude the order and make the required payment, a virtual pin pad is displayed on the screen for entry of the user’s PIN. Suppose, however, that the user is visually impaired. In such a scenario, the user cannot see, hear or feel where the keypad is located on the touch screen and does not know where the keys are for entry of their PIN’s digits. Therefore, user needs to be able to specify the location of the virtual keypad to the electronic device, not the other way round as per the prior art. In response to the user’s instructions, the software executing on the electronic device needs to determine where to provide the keypad so that the user can enter their data. Examples of the disclosure facilitate communication of the desired keypad location, orientation, size and other attributes from the user to the electronic device.

The user places an input assistance device 1 on the screen. The body of the assistance device is held against the screen, in contact with the screen. The user may do this in response to a prompt (visual, tactile and/or audible) to do so. The prompt may suggest or guide the user a to how, when or where to place the overlay on the screen. The prompt may be communicated to the user via any suitable output means such as a speaker or headphones, and may be arranged for wired or wireless connection to the electronic device or some other source of the prompt. Other prompts and communications may be sent to the user during use of the overlay assistance device to guide, instruct or assist in the performance of a process such as a financial transaction or authentication process, for example.

A portion of low adhesive glue 8 provided on the rear of the body 2 helps to assist in holding it in place during use, or the device comprises a substance which facilitates it clinging or sticking to the surface of the screen. This is advantageous in that the data input assistance device 1 can be used one-handed users, or users who are unable to use either arm. For example, someone who does not have the use of their arms and uses a mouth- held pointing device would not need to hold the input assistance device against the screen in use. Thus, the assistance device is advantageous for use by individuals with a variety of physical and visual disabilities. In other examples or use cases, e.g. when used with a small, hand-held device such as a mobile phone, the user may additionally or alternatively hold the data input assistance device in position with e.g. via notches or apertures 4, 5 and enter their data using the other hand.

Once the data input assistance device 1 has been positioned relative to the touchscreen, the user uses it to instruct the suitably arranged software provided on the electronic device to generate a virtual keypad for data input purposes. This is performed using the location indicator(s) 3, 4, 5 as described above. In one scenario, the user places a finger over a notch 4 or an aperture/recess 5, while in another scenario multiple fingers are placed over respective notches/apertures. In yet another scenario, the user places their finger(s) over one or more pre-designated input zone(s) 3 for the purpose of indicating the desired keypad generation data to the software.

In yet another scenario, the user determines to position of a notch 4 or an aperture/recess 5 with their finger, or contact tool, and traces the shape by moving their finger along the perimeter of the notch or recess. Tracing a shape with a finger not only provides an indication of the devices position on the device 1 but can provide additional functionality and ease. Ease of use can be improved because a user only needs to contact the screen of the device once, and can define multiple contact points by maintaining contact while moving their finger, thus reducing the number of positions to be identified and pressed. Further, the movement enables a device 1 to determine at least one of: the location; size; configuration; and orientation of a virtual keypad.

The shape of a notch 4 or an aperture/recess 5 can also be used to indicate the function of the data input assistance device 1, such that the shape represents a code. The code can represent the dimensions, layout and configurations of data input assistance devices having different format e.g. different sizes or spacing of the input zones, or a different number of input zones. The user’s touch is detected by the touchscreen and associated sensing software, and keypad generation data is derived therefrom. This can include data related to the location, position, orientation, size and/or layout of the virtual keypad. The keypad generation software is arranged such that it can use the generation data to determine where to provide the virtual keypad relative to the screen, and in which orientation. The software can be arranged such that once the user provides the location of one or more points on the screen it can calculate where the virtual keys of the keypad need to be provided such that they align with the input zones(s) provided on the device body 2.

Note that in another scenario, as described above, the user may indicate their instruction to the software using one or more of the input zones 3. For example, the software may be arranged to interpret the user’s touch location via a particular input zone as the location of the “1” key, or multiple touches as the locations of the “1” and “7” keys etc. The multiple touches can include a movement along a notch 4 or aperture 5.

The keypad generation software then provides the virtual keypad on the screen based on the data derived from the signal(s) detected as a result of (direct or indirect) contact with the touchscreen via the one or more location indicators. The keypad is positioned, formatted, oriented, configured and/or proportioned so as to generate the keypad underneath the data input assistance device so that at least one, some or each key of the keypad corresponds to an input zone 3 provided on or in the body 2. In Figure 2, the keys of the keypad are illustrated as being visible through or within the input zones. However, in one or more examples, the virtual keypad may be provided but not visibly displayed. This may be achieved by not executing an output instruction for the display of the virtual keypad, or by generating it such that it is hidden from display e.g. making the symbols or keys the same colour as the touchscreen background, or by displaying a mask or cover over the keypad keys to hide them from view. By not displaying the keypad, security is enhanced because over- the- shoulder surfing attacks can be avoided.

The user then enters his/her input data such as their PIN by making contact with the surface of the screen via the input zones 3. This enables the signal supplied by the user’s body to be detected by the touchscreen at the input zone and the input stored into memory associated with the device.

The input device (and/or software) may be arranged for use in performing a financial transaction or some other process which requires sensitive data to be entered. The process may comprise an authentication process for validating a user’s identity.

Data Input Assistance Device With Privacy Shield: In such situations, it may be advantageous for a privacy shield to be provided around or over at least part of the input device. The shield may also be referred to as a “shroud” or a “privacy shield”. Therefore, the disclosure provides a data input assistance device in accordance with any embodiment disclosed herein and comprising a privacy shield and/or means for connecting a privacy shield to the input assistance device. For example, a shield may be provided around, over, towards, on or at one or more portions of the input devices to prevent or at least hinder observation of the user’s chosen keys during data input. In some embodiments, the shield is provided as a substantially upright flange relative to, and extending substantially upwards in use from, the front surface of the device. In some embodiments, the shield may extend over the front surface of the input device so that during use the user inserts their finger(s) or hand(s) between the shield and the front surface of the input device in order to enter their input.

The shield may be provided as a flange, guard or extending portion which is angled or raised relative to the front surface of the device body. The shield may be wholly or partially foldable, compressible and/or collapsible to facilitate storage and/or transportation. For example, the shield may be made of or comprise a soft, resilient and/or pliable material that allows the flange to be folded onto or over the input device and/or itself before being put into a storage container, bag, cover etc. when not in use. This can also assist to protect the input device and keep it clean when not in use.

The shield may comprise one complete shield body or comprise multiple parts or segments which can be connected together to form the shield. Different sections or parts of the shield may connect to the input device independently of each other. Additionally, or alternatively, a connecting portion of the shield may connect around or to the input device while dissected portions/segments of the shield may extend from the connecting portion and be configured for independent movement relative to the device or each other. Two or more shield segments may be permanently attached to a common portion of the shield which connects them together but allows them to move independently of each other. In another embodiment, though, the segments may be detachable from each other. They may connect to each other and/or the input device during use. The shield may be permanently or removably attached to the input device. In the removeable version, the shield portion(s) may attach to, and detach from, the body of the input device in any known, suitable manner. This may comprise the use of at least one of: an adhesive substance applied to the input device and/or the shield, notches or hooks, or clips or magnetic components or a combination thereof. The input device and/or shield may comprise connection means for connection of a shield to a portion of the input device.

This privacy shield is especially helpful for visually impaired users who may not be able to detect when an observer is watching their keying actions, or for use in situations where the device is being used in public places and privacy of data entry is desired. Such a shield thus provides a more secure input device because it helps to prevent over the shoulder surfing attacks by an individual other than the user/an unauthorised individual.

Terminology

Herein, the terms “keypad”, “pin pad” and “keyboard” may be used interchangeably and synonymously, and all of these terms are intended to cover a device, component or mechanism for entering data into a computer-based resource such as a laptop, personal computer, mobile phone, tablet or any other form of processor-based computing device. The computer-based resource may be any type of electronic, processor-based device comprising an operating system. This includes but is not limited to: servers, mobile devices, personal computers, Point of Sale (PoS), payment entry/processing systems and devices, card reading devices, dedicated computing arrangements e.g. ATM machines and networks comprising any combination of such devices. The computer-based resource may comprise at least one software application arranged for execution on a processor associated with the device. The computer-based resource- may be arranged and/or operative to generate a virtual data input assistance device.

The terms “virtual keypad/keyboard/pin pad” are intended to include a software- implemented version or representation which models the functionality of a mechanical input device e.g. keypad/keyboard, as known in the art. The virtual keypad/keyboard/pin pad provides keys which are displayed on the screen. Each key may serve as a hot spot that can be touched by the user to provide an input into the device. Each key is associated with a symbol or indicia such that operation of a given key by a user causes the symbol associated with the selected key to be entered into memory within the device for subsequent use by a software application. The terms “authentication”, “verification” and “validation” are used interchangeably herein. The term “virtual” is used interchangeably herein with “electronic” in relation to keypad/pinpad/keyboard.

The term “configuration” when used in relation to a keypad, whether virtual or physical, may be used herein to include the layout and/or arrangement of keys. The term “data” as used herein can be interpreted as meaning any signal that is capable of being entered as input into an electronic computing device. The input/data could be interpreted by the device as any type of data including (for example) but not limited to a portion of text, a character, a string, an integer or floating point value, a symbol, an instruction, a procedure/function/method call, a representation of a static or moving image etc.

It should be noted that the above-mentioned examples illustrate rather than limit the disclosure, and that those skilled in the art will be capable of designing many alternative examples without departing from the scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims. In the claims, any reference signs placed in parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claims. The word "comprising" and "comprises", and the like, does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those listed in any claim or the specification as a whole. In the present specification, “comprises” means “includes or consists of’ and “comprising” means “including or consisting of’. Throughout this specification the word "comprise", or variations such as “includes”, "comprises" or "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps, but not the exclusion of any other element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps. The singular reference of an element does not exclude the plural reference of such elements and vice-versa. The disclosure may be implemented by means of hardware comprising several distinct elements, and by means of a suitably programmed computer. In a device claim enumerating several means, several of these means may be embodied by one and the same item of hardware. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.

Enumerated statements:

Illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure are provided as follows: Statement 1. A computer-implemented data input assistance system comprising: a touchscreen comprising a display zone and associated with an electronic device; a data input assistance device comprising a body for placement on or against the touchscreen and including: i) at least one location indicator arranged to facilitate contact by a user with the touchscreen; and/or ii) software operative to use the location of the user’s contact with the touchscreen to determine at least one of: the location; size; configuration; and orientation of a virtual keypad.

Additionally or alternatively, the input assistance system may comprise at least one device positioning component arranged to maintain the device in a position relative to the touchscreen.

Statement 2. A system according to statement 1, wherein the software is: installed and/or arranged for execution on the electronic device; and/or further operative to generate the virtual keypad based on data and/or a signal derived from the contact of the user’s body with the touchscreen.

Statement 3. A system according to statement 1 or 2 wherein: i) the touchscreen is or comprises a capacitive touch screen or capacitive touchscreen zone; and/or ii) the electronic device comprises a trusted execution environment and/or a secure memory component; and/or iii) at least one of the location, size and orientation of the virtual keypad is determined relative to the display zone and/or the data input assistance device.

Statement 4. A system according to any preceding statement wherein: the data input assistance device is arranged or configured to facilitate input of data by the user into the electronic device via the touchscreen; and/or the data input assistance device is non-conductive and/or unpowered, either in part or in entirety. Statement 5. A system according to any preceding statement wherein the data input assistance device further comprises at least one input zone provided in association with the body and arranged to facilitate or enable the user to input the data into the electronic device by detection of a signal derived from the user.

Statement 6. A system according to statement 5, wherein the at least one input zone comprises: an aperture or recess; and/or an aperture or recess comprising at least one of a bevelled, angled, raised, and tilted feature.

Statement 7. A system according to any preceding statement, wherein the at least one device positioning component comprises: one or more discrete zones or portions of material arranged to facilitate adherence or temporary, removable connection of the data input assistance device to the touchscreen.

Statement 8. A device according to and preceding statement, wherein the at least one device positioning component: i) is or comprises at least one of: an aperture or recess; a fixative substance; and means for holding the data input assistance device against or adjacent to the touchscreen during use; and/or ii) is arranged or operative to enable the user to indicate, to the software that a process should be executed or initiated.

Statement 9. A system according to any preceding statement wherein the electronic device is or comprises at least one of: a mobile, portable, and handheld device such as a smart phone, tablet, card reading terminal or device, or laptop and/or a payment terminal. Statement 10. A system according to any preceding statement, wherein the data input assistance device comprises: at least one reference marker for communication of a location or point on the body to a user, wherein the at least one reference marker is provided in, on or via at least one input zone provided in association with the body and arranged to facilitate or enable the user to input the data into the electronic device by contact with the touchscreen.

Statement 11. A data input assistance device for facilitating input of data by a user via a touchscreen into an electronic device, comprising a body for placement on or adjacent to the touchscreen, the body comprising: at least one location indicator arranged to facilitate communication, to the electronic device (10), at least one of: the location; size; configuration; and orientation of a virtual keypad. Statement 12. A data input assistance device according to statement 11, wherein the body comprises: i) at least one device positioning component for maintaining the device in a position relative to the touchscreen; and/or ii) a privacy shield comprising a flange, guard or extending portion which is angled or raised relative to the front surface of the body to prevent or at least hinder observation of the location of the user’s contact with the touchscreen.

Statement 13. A data input assistance device according to statement 11 or 12, wherein the location indicator has at least one of: an elongate slot; an elongate slot having an angled bend, such as a 90-degree bend; an elongate slot having a curved portion; or a featured perimeter edge.

Statement 14. A method for facilitating input of data by a user into an electronic device, comprising: providing or using a data input system or device arranged in accordance with any preceding statement.

Statement 15. A method of facilitating input of data by a user into an electronic device, comprising: using data communicated from the user via an data input assistance device in accordance with statements 1 to 10 to provide a virtual keypad on the electronic device at a location relative to the touchscreen and/or with a configuration/orientation.

Statement 16. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having stored thereon executable instructions that, as a result of being executed by a processor of a computer system, cause the computer system to perform the computer-implemented method of any one of statements 14 to 15.

Statement 17. An electronic device for receiving input of data from a user via a touchscreen and a data input assistance device according to any of statements 11 to 13 for facilitating input of data by a user to the touchscreen, wherein the data input assistance device is movably connected to the device between: a first position in which the data input assistance device lies upon the screen; and a second position in which the data input assistance device is positioned off-screen to allow unrestricted access to the touchscreen. Statement 18. A plurality of data input assistance devices according to any of statements 11 to 13 arranged in at least one of a pack, pad, stack of sheets or roll of repositionable data input assistance devices having, at least in part, a reusable sticky rear face portion.

Claims

1. A computer-implemented data input assistance system comprising: a touchscreen comprising a display zone and associated with an electronic device; a data input assistance device comprising a body for placement on or against the touchscreen and including: i) at least one location indicator arranged to facilitate contact by a user with the touchscreen; and ii) software operative to use the location of the user’s contact with the touchscreen to determine at least one of: the location; size; configuration; and orientation of a virtual keypad; and preferably comprising: iii) at least one device positioning component arranged to maintain the device in a position relative to the touchscreen.

2. A system according to claim 1, wherein the software is: installed and/or arranged for execution on the electronic device; and/or further operative to generate the virtual keypad based on data and/or a signal derived from the contact of the user’s body with the touchscreen.

3. A system according to claim 1 or 2 wherein: i) the touchscreen is or comprises a capacitive touch screen or capacitive touchscreen zone; and/or ii) the electronic device comprises a trusted execution environment and/or a secure memory component; and/or iii) at least one of the location, size and orientation of the virtual keypad is determined relative to the display zone and/or the data input assistance device; and/or iv) the device comprises : a) a shield or shroud arranged to hide or obscure operation of the electronic device, by a user, from view by an observer; and/or b) at least one connection means for connection of a shield or shroud to the data input assistance device.

4. A system according to any preceding claim wherein: the data input assistance device is arranged or configured to facilitate input of data by the user into the electronic device via the touchscreen; and/or the data input assistance device is non-conductive and/or unpowered, either in part or in entirety.

5. A system according to any preceding claim wherein the data input assistance device further comprises at least one input zone provided in association with the body and arranged to facilitate or enable the user to input the data into the electronic device by detection of a signal derived from the user.

6. A system according to claim 5, wherein the at least one input zone comprises: an aperture or recess; and/or an aperture or recess comprising at least one of a bevelled, angled, raised, and tilted feature.

7. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one device positioning component comprises: one or more discrete zones or portions of material arranged to facilitate adherence or temporary, removable connection of the data input assistance device to the touchscreen.

8. A system according to and preceding claim, wherein the at least one device positioning component: i) is or comprises at least one of: an aperture or recess; a fixative substance; and means for holding the data input assistance device against or adjacent to the touchscreen during use; and/or ii) is arranged or operative to enable the user to indicate, to the software that a process should be executed or initiated.

9. A system according to any preceding claim wherein the electronic device is or comprises at least one of: a mobile, portable, and handheld device such as a smart phone, tablet, card reading terminal or device, or laptop and/or a payment terminal.

10. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the data input assistance device comprises: at least one reference marker for communication of a location or point on the body to a user, wherein the at least one reference marker is provided in, on or via at least one input zone provided in association with the body and arranged to facilitate or enable the user to input the data into the electronic device by contact with the touchscreen.

11. A data input assistance device for facilitating input of data by a user via a touchscreen into an electronic device, comprising a body for placement on or adjacent to the touchscreen, the body comprising: at least one location indicator arranged to facilitate communication, to the electronic device (10), at least one of: the location; size; configuration; and orientation of a virtual keypad.

12. A data input assistance device according to claim 11, wherein the body comprises: i) at least one device positioning component for maintaining the device in a position relative to the touchscreen; and/or ii) a privacy shield comprising a flange, guard or extending portion which is angled or raised relative to the front surface of the body to prevent or at least hinder observation of the location of the user’s contact with the touchscreen.

13. A data input assistance device according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the location indicator has at least one of: an elongate slot; an elongate slot having an angled bend, such as a 90-degree bend; an elongate slot having a curved portion; or a featured perimeter edge.

14. A method for facilitating input of data by a user into an electronic device, comprising: providing or using a data input system or device arranged in accordance with any preceding claim.

15. A method of facilitating input of data by a user into an electronic device, comprising: using data communicated from the user via an data input assistance device in accordance with claims 1 to 10 to provide a virtual keypad on the electronic device at a location relative to the touchscreen and/or with a configuration/orientation.

16. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having stored thereon executable instructions that, as a result of being executed by a processor of a computer system, cause the computer system to perform the computer-implemented method of any one of claims 14 to 15.

17. An electronic device for receiving input of data from a user via a touchscreen and a data input assistance device according to any of claims 11 to 13 for facilitating input of data by a user to the touchscreen, wherein the data input assistance device is movably connected to the device between: a first position in which the data input assistance device lies upon the screen; and a second position in which the data input assistance device is positioned off-screen to allow unrestricted access to the touchscreen.

18. A plurality of data input assistance devices according to any of claims 11 to 13 arranged in at least one of a pack, pad, stack of sheets or roll of repositionable data input assistance devices having, at least in part, a reusable sticky rear face portion.

19. A data input assistance device comprising: a body for placement adjacent to a touch screen of an electronic device; and at least one input zone provided in or on the body and arranged to facilitate or enable a user to operate an area of the touch screen by contact with the screen; and also comprising i) a shield provided removably or permanently on the body and arranged to hide or obscure operation of the electronic device from view by an observer; and/or ii) at least one connection means for connection of a privacy shield to the data input assistance device.

20. A data input assistance device according to claim 19, wherein the data input assistance device also comprises at least one location indicator arranged to communicate, to a software component associated with the electronic device, the location of a portion of the input assistance device relative to the touch screen.

21. A data input assistance device according to claim 19 or 20, wherein the area of the touch screen is, provides and/or functions as a key of a virtual input component, preferably wherein the virtual input component is a virtual keypad, a virtual pinpad or a virtual keyboard.

22. A device according to claims 19 to 21, wherein at least a portion of the body, at least one location indicator and/or at least one input zone comprises an electro conductive material.

23. A device according to claims 19 to 22, wherein the at least one input zone: i) comprises at least one aperture arranged to expose the screen and enable contact with the screen by a user; and/or iii) comprises an area which is arranged to conduct an electrical signal to the touch screen for detection by a sensor; and or iii) does not comprise a barrier between the surface of the touch screen and the user; and/or iv) is spaced from the surface of the touch screen.

24. A device according to claims 19 to 23, wherein the body comprises: i) at least one layer of a material through which a signal or energy derived from a user’s body can be transmitted or conducted to the touch screen and/or ii) a reference marker for tactile or audible communication of a location on the body to a user via touch or sound; and/or iii) a rear surface which: in use is spaced from the surface of the touch screen, by the at least one location indicator; and/or in use faces the surface of the touch screen; and/or comprises a layer, portion or coating of a material or substance which prohibits or impedes transmission of a signal from the user’s body to the surface of the touch screen.

25. A device according to claims 19 to 24, wherein the at least one location indicator: i) comprises a protrusion which projects from the body; and/or ii) is arranged to hold or position the body or a portion thereof away from, spaced from or adjacent to the touch screen and/or iii) is provided on the body separately from the at least one input zone.

26. A data input assistance device comprising: a body for placement adjacent to a touch screen of an electronic device, the body comprising: at least one input zone arranged to facilitate or enable a user to operate an area of the touch screen by transmission of a signal or energy from the user’s body as a result of contact with the touch screen; and a rear surface which, in use, faces a surface of the touch screen and comprises: i) a layer, portion or coating of a material or substance which prohibits or impedes transmission of a signal or energy from the user’s body to the surface of the touch screen; and ii) at least one location indicator which enables or facilitates transmission of a signal or energy from the user’s body to the surface of the touch screen for communication, to a software component associated with the electronic device, the location of a portion of the input assistance device relative to the touch screen; and also comprising i) a shield provided removably or permanently on the body and arranged to hide or obscure operation of the electronic device from view by an observer; and/or ii) at least one connection means for connection of a privacy shield to the data input assistance device.

27. A data input assistance system comprising: a data input assistance device according to claims 19 to 26; and a software component arranged for execution on an electronic device associated with a touch screen, and arranged to provide a virtual input component on the electronic device at a location based on the position of the location indicator; and also comprising: i) a shield for removable or permanent connection to the data input assistance device and arranged to hide or obscure operation of the electronic device from view by an observer; and/or ii) at least one connection means for removable or permanent connection of a privacy shield to the data input assistance device.