JP5420054B2 - Device, method, system and program for handling code - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an apparatus, method, system, and program for handling codes.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there is a two-dimensional code technique in which electronic data is embedded in paper by printing an image pattern generated by encoding electronic data, the image is optically read, and electronic data is extracted. By embedding information with a two-dimensional code, more electronic information can be embedded in paper.

  If a copying machine having both a printing function and a scanning function is used, embedding and reading of a two-dimensional code can be realized by a single device. Therefore, a system unique to a copying machine using a two-dimensional code has been developed. For example, information indicating that the document is a confidential document as a two-dimensional code is embedded in the print output, and it is determined whether the document is a confidential document prohibited from being copied by the image forming apparatus at the time of copying. There is a system that stops the operation (Patent Document 1). In addition, a system that embeds a use log of an image forming apparatus in a paper document and uses it for tracking a document, or a system that prints an original image based on the image information at the time of scanning using the image information itself as a two-dimensional code (patent) Reference 2). In addition, there is a system (Patent Document 3) in which an image forming apparatus registers a document in the image forming apparatus in advance, and prints the previously registered document and another document by combining (overlaying) images.

  According to these applications, an optimal embedding method is selected and used. The two-dimensional code embedding method can be classified into two types as follows.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a document in which a two-dimensional code is embedded using a repetitive embedding method and a simple embedding method.

Reference numeral 10 denotes a document in which a two-dimensional code is embedded by a repetitive embedding method. A rectangle surrounded by a dotted line in the figure indicates one information embedding tile. Although this dotted line is not actually printed, a dotted line is written at 10 to show the presence of the information embedding tile in an easy-to-understand manner. Since the same information is embedded in each information embedding tile printed on the entire surface of the document 10 in the document 10, information can be extracted even from a part of the document. Therefore, the document in which the two-dimensional code is embedded by the repetitive embedding method is resistant to dirt and wrinkles. In the repetitive embedding method, since a two-dimensional code is printed on the entire surface of a document, in order to reduce the visibility of the two-dimensional code, a pattern using dots or lines is often generated for information embedding. On the other hand, reference numeral 20 denotes a document in which a two-dimensional code is embedded by the simple embedding method. A two-dimensional code is printed at the lower right of the document in the figure. In the case of the simple embedding method, if a part of the two-dimensional code is missing or the two-dimensional code becomes dirty, information cannot be extracted from the two-dimensional code. However, since the simple embedding method generates a high-density two-dimensional code,
There is an advantage that the amount of information that can be embedded in the manuscript can be increased.

  In a system for detecting a confidential document, an iterative embedding method is often used. On the other hand, in the case of a system in which image information is embedded, a simple embedding method is often used in order to handle a large amount of information.

  Next, an outline of a system proposed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2004-260260 that prints a previously registered document and another document by combining images (overlaying) will be described. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing the data flow of the system proposed in Patent Document 3. As shown in FIG. In FIG. 11, reference numeral 1003 denotes a ROM (program ROM). The ROM 1003 stores the following modules as a configuration as a control program.

  Reference numeral 201 denotes a form generation module for generating the form file 207. Reference numeral 202 denotes an embedded data generation module for generating the embedded data file 208. A composite file generation module 203 generates a composite form file 209 from a plurality of form files 207 and an embedded data file 208. A memory expansion module 204 expands the composite form file. Reference numeral 205 denotes a sequential analysis processing module that sequentially analyzes the developed composite form file. Reference numeral 206 denotes an overlay module for causing the printer to process overlay printing in accordance with instructions obtained by analyzing the composite form file. The memory development module 204, the sequential analysis module 205, and the overlay module 206 are collectively referred to as a runtime library module or an overlay designation module.

  Reference numeral 1002 denotes a RAM that functions as a memory into which the above modules are loaded, and stores form objects. The form object is form data (form data) and embedded data (field data). The RAM 1002 is also a work area.

  Reference numeral 1009 denotes a hard disk that stores a database, an embedded data file, a form file, or a composite form file. Reference numeral 207 denotes a form file, which is a file composed of form data (form data) generated by the form generation module 201 described above. Reference numeral 208 denotes an embedded data file, which is a file composed of embedded data (also referred to as field data or retrofitted data) generated by the embedded data generation module 203 described above. Reference numeral 209 denotes a composite form file that is defined from a plurality of form files generated by the composite file generation module 203 described above. The composite form file 209 is defined as an information file having both form information for managing a plurality of types of form forms as one related continuous form and output information such as an output destination paper cassette for each form. A database 210 is accessed by the embedded data generation module 202 as will be described later, and an embedded data file 208 is generated.

  Overlay data (consisting of form data and embedded data) generated by each program module stored in the ROM 1003 is passed to the OS. The OS associates the data function (GDI function) output from the application with the common data function (DDI function) that can be recognized by the output device, and outputs the data function to the printer driver 211 specified by the application. The function corresponding means for processing this part is a part of the function of the OS, and is a part corresponding to GDI in Windows (registered trademark). Since this function is known, detailed control is omitted.

  The printer driver 211 analyzes the data function (DDI function) input from the function corresponding means of the OS with a printer that prints out, and generates print data in a page description language (PDL) that can be printed. The generated print data is output and transmitted to a printer which is a printing apparatus. In the printer, bitmap data is generated and printed out as instructed by the print data. The printer is capable of overlaying, receives form print data and embedding print data, executes an overlay (overlay) process, and prints it. If the printer does not have an overlay function, the printer driver 211 executes overlay processing to generate print data for all pages and send it to the printer.

JP 2002-305646 A JP 2004-153568 A JP 2000-122837 A

  As described above, in a system using a two-dimensional code, various two-dimensional codes are used according to the purpose, and therefore, it is conceivable that a plurality of different two-dimensional codes are used simultaneously. That is, it is conceivable to print a plurality of different two-dimensional codes on the same sheet. When a plurality of different two-dimensional codes are used at the same time, the two-dimensional codes may interfere with each other, and information may not be read from each two-dimensional code. In other words, in the case of a system that uses a plurality of different two-dimensional codes at the same time, when copying a document in which a two-dimensional code has already been embedded, if a new two-dimensional code is added and printed on the original, it is already embedded. There is a possibility of damaging the two-dimensional code.

  The apparatus according to the present invention is configured to scan a document including a repetitive embedding code and a setting for synthesizing a simple embedding code to a scanned image or to perform a setting for synthesizing a repetitive embedding code. A determination unit that determines whether the scan image is received, and the determination unit determines that the setting for combining the code of the simple embedding method with the scan image is performed, and the scan image obtained by the scan and the code of the simple embedding method If the determination unit determines that the setting for synthesizing the simple embedding method code to the scan image has been made by the determination unit, the combination unit performs the combination by the combination unit. The result was printed, and it was determined that the setting for synthesizing the repetitive embedding code with the scan image was performed by the determination unit. Expediently, characterized in that it does not perform printing of a scanned image obtained by the scanning.

  According to the present invention, when copying a document in which a two-dimensional code is already embedded, it is possible to prevent the already embedded two-dimensional code from being damaged.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a document in which a two-dimensional code is embedded using a repetitive embedding method and a simple embedding method. It is a figure which shows an example of the information embedding by an iterative embedding system. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the process which extracts the two-dimensional code embedded in the input image by an iterative embedding system. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the process which extracts the two-dimensional code added to the input image. 3 is a flowchart showing processing of Example 1; 5 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of determination processing for determining whether or not printing of a first two-dimensional code is possible in the first embodiment. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of determination processing for determining whether or not printing of the first two-dimensional code is possible in the second embodiment. It is a figure which shows the state which printed the 1st two-dimensional code on the 2nd two-dimensional code. 10 is a flowchart illustrating processing of Example 3; It is a figure for demonstrating the search of the area | region which embeds a 1st two-dimensional code. It is a block diagram which shows the data flow of the system in the prior art example of this invention. 14 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of form data registration processing according to the fourth embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of form synthesis printing processing according to a fourth embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of form synthesis printing processing according to a fifth exemplary embodiment.

  First, an information extraction method corresponding to the information embedding method used in this embodiment will be described.

  As described above, there are two types of information embedding methods, an iterative embedding method and a simple embedding method. An information extraction method corresponding to each information embedding method will be described.

  In the following description, the information extraction process is performed by the image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus extracts information from the image read by the scanner using each information extraction method. Here, the image forming apparatus has a CPU and a storage unit therein, and the CPU executes processing exemplified below by reading a program and data stored in the storage unit.

(A) Repetitive Embedding Method As an iterative embedding method, an example in which embedded information is extracted by printing dots as a two-dimensional code on a document is shown. In the repetitive embedding method, since a two-dimensional code is printed on the entire original, an embedding method with as low visibility as possible is desired. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, a two-dimensional code in which dots (201) are printed near the intersection of a virtual grid 202 drawn on a document and information is embedded by displacement of the dots from the intersection is taken as an example.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing for extracting a two-dimensional code embedded in an input image by an iterative embedding method.
When the image read by the scanner is input, the image forming apparatus scans the input image and detects dots included in the image (S301).

  The image forming apparatus calculates dot information such as absolute coordinates, particle size and density of all detected dots (S302).

  In order to detect only information dots, the image forming apparatus performs halftone removal processing for deleting dots other than information dots related to embedding information from the detected dots based on the calculated dot information (S303).

  In order to reproduce the grid, the image forming apparatus measures the distance between the detected information dot and the neighboring dot, and calculates the grid interval. Further, the image forming apparatus measures the angles to all neighboring information dots and calculates the rotation angle of the grid (S304). After obtaining the grid interval and the rotation angle, the image forming apparatus measures the relative position of the information dot with respect to the intersection of the grid (202 in FIG. 2).

  In order to calculate the position and size of each data area, the image forming apparatus determines the repetitive size of the repetitively embedded data area (S305).

The image forming apparatus calculates the position and size of the information dots in the repeatedly embedded data area (S306), and extracts the embedded data (S307).
Finally, the image forming apparatus performs error correction processing on the extracted data (S308), and acquires embedded information.

  The above is an example of an information extraction method corresponding to the iterative embedding method shown in this embodiment, but the present invention is not limited to this, and an information extraction method corresponding to another iterative embedding method may be used.

(B) Simple embedding method As an extraction method of the simple embedding method, an example of extracting a two-dimensional code (QR code) is shown.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing for extracting a two-dimensional code added to an input image.

  When the image read by the scanner is input, the image forming apparatus scans the input image and detects the position of a predetermined two-dimensional code (S401). The position of the two-dimensional code is detected by using the same cutout symbol pattern arranged at three of the four corners of the two-dimensional code.

  The image forming apparatus restores the format information adjacent to the cut-out symbol, and acquires the error correction level and the mask pattern applied to the symbol (S402).

  The image forming apparatus cancels the mask process by performing an XOR operation on the encoded area bit pattern using the acquired mask pattern (S403).

  The image forming apparatus reads the symbol character according to the arrangement rule corresponding to the model, and restores the message data and the error correction code (S404).

  The image forming apparatus applies an error correction code to the restored data to determine whether or not there is an error in the restored data (S405), and corrects the error if there is an error (S405). S406).

  The image forming apparatus applies an error detection code to the error-corrected data and determines whether or not the data has an error (S407). If there is no error, the extracted data is successfully decoded. The data is output (S408). On the other hand, if there is an error, it is determined that the decoding of the extracted data has failed, and the process ends (4609).

  The above is an example of an information extraction method corresponding to the simple embedding method shown in the present embodiment, but the present invention is not limited to this, and an information extraction method corresponding to another simple embedding method may be used.

  Next, a problem when a plurality of two-dimensional codes are printed on the same sheet will be described.

  Here, when copying a document on which a two-dimensional code has already been printed and then printing a new two-dimensional code, there is a problem in extracting information from each two-dimensional code printed on the copied document. explain. In the following description, the two-dimensional code that has already been printed on the document is referred to as a second two-dimensional code (second code image), and the newly printed two-dimensional code is referred to as a first two-dimensional code (first code). The code image).

  Table 2 below shows the first two-dimensional code embedding method and the second two-dimensional code embedding method, and the extraction results when information is extracted from a document in which these two two-dimensional codes are embedded. It is a table. “○” in the extraction result indicates that information can be extracted, “×” indicates that information cannot be extracted, and “△” indicates that information can be extracted or not. .

  As can be seen from Table 2, when two-dimensional codes are printed in an overlapping manner, information cannot be restored. Whether or not the information restoration is possible depends on the printing order of the two-dimensional code and the characteristics of the embedding method, so the embodiment will be described below with reference to Table 2.

  In the first embodiment, when information is embedded at the time of copying using the above-described information embedding technique, the second two-dimensional code already embedded in the original and the first two-dimensional code newly embedded do not overlap. An embedding control process is shown.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating the processing of the first embodiment.

  The scanner reads the original and sends the read image to the image forming apparatus (S501).

  Upon receiving the image from the scanner, the image forming apparatus determines whether or not the second two-dimensional code is embedded in the input image (scanned image) (S502). If the second two-dimensional code is not embedded in the input image, the image forming apparatus continues the copying operation as it is and performs printing (S507). On the other hand, when the second two-dimensional code is embedded in the input image, the image forming apparatus specifies the position and the embedding method of the second two-dimensional code (S503).

  The image forming apparatus determines whether or not an instruction to embed a first two-dimensional code, which is a new two-dimensional code, is given as a setting at the time of copying (S504), and the first two-dimensional code is designated to be embedded. If not, the copying operation is continued as it is and printing is performed (S507). On the other hand, if an instruction for embedding the first two-dimensional code is given, the image forming apparatus determines whether printing of the designated first two-dimensional code is possible (S505).

  Here, the process of determining whether or not the first two-dimensional code can be printed (S505) will be described in detail.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a flow of determination processing (S505) for determining whether or not printing of the first two-dimensional code is possible.

  The image forming apparatus acquires the type of the second two-dimensional code embedding method (repetitive embedding method or simple embedding method) and the position information of the print area of the second two-dimensional code (S601).

  The image forming apparatus acquires the type of the first two-dimensional code embedding method and the position information of the print area of the first two-dimensional code (S602).

  When the first two-dimensional code embedding method is a repetitive embedding method, the image forming apparatus may damage the second two-dimensional code when printed on the second two-dimensional code as shown in Table 2 Therefore, it is determined that the first two-dimensional code cannot be printed (S606). In contrast, when the first two-dimensional code embedding method is the simple embedding method, the image forming apparatus has an overlap between the first two-dimensional code print area and the second two-dimensional code print area. It is determined whether or not there is (S604). As a result of the determination, if there is an overlap between the print area of the second two-dimensional code and the print area of the first two-dimensional code, embedding the first two-dimensional code may damage the second two-dimensional code. Therefore, it is determined that printing is not possible (output stop) (S606). On the other hand, if there is no overlap between the print area of the first two-dimensional code and the print area of the second two-dimensional code, it is determined that the first two-dimensional code can be printed (S605), and the image forming apparatus Terminate the process.

  The description returns to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  If it is determined in step S505 that the first two-dimensional code can be printed, the image forming apparatus combines the first two-dimensional code and the second two-dimensional code on the input image (S506) to perform printing. This is performed (S507). On the other hand, when it is determined that the first two-dimensional code cannot be printed, the image forming apparatus cancels the job (S508). Note that the image forming apparatus may copy the input image as it is without canceling the job and without synthesizing the first two-dimensional code. The image forming apparatus may further include a unit that determines whether or not to cancel the job based on a value set by the user when it is determined that the first two-dimensional code cannot be printed.

  As described above, according to the first embodiment, when copying a document in which a two-dimensional code is already embedded, embedding of a new two-dimensional code can be controlled so that the two-dimensional code is not damaged.

  In the second embodiment, when the information is embedded using the above-described information embedding technique, a process of embedding control for guaranteeing a minimum area where information can be restored from the second two-dimensional code and the first two-dimensional code when embedding information Indicates.

  The process shown in the second embodiment is different from the process shown in FIG. 5 in the determination process (S505) for determining whether or not the first two-dimensional code can be printed, and the other processes are the same. Therefore, the determination process (S505) for determining whether or not the first two-dimensional code can be printed will be described in detail.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a flow of determination processing (S505) for determining whether or not printing of the first two-dimensional code is possible.

  The processing of S701 to S703 is the same as the processing of S601 to S603 shown in FIG.

In the first embodiment, if there is an overlap in the print area of the first two-dimensional code and the second two-dimensional code in S604, the first two-dimensional code is regarded as being unable to restore information from the second two-dimensional code. It was decided that the code could not be printed unconditionally. The reason is that when the second two-dimensional code is embedded by the repetitive embedding method, since the second two-dimensional code is printed on the entire surface of the document, the first two-dimensional code is changed to the second two-dimensional code. This is because it cannot be embedded so as not to overlap the code. However, due to the characteristics of the iterative embedding method, even if a part of the second two-dimensional code area embedded by the iterative embedding method is lost, information may be able to be restored from the remaining part. That is, when the first two-dimensional code embedding method is the simple embedding method, even if the first two-dimensional code is printed on the second two-dimensional code, the first two-dimensional code and the second two-dimensional code are printed. In some cases, information can be restored from the dimension code (case 2 in Table 2). However, even the iterative embedding method requires a minimum area for restoring information.
In the second embodiment, a determination process using the characteristics of such an iterative embedding method is performed.

  If the image forming apparatus determines in step S703 that the first two-dimensional code embedding method is the simple embedding method, the image forming apparatus proceeds to step S704.

  The image forming apparatus determines whether there is an overlap between the first two-dimensional code print area and the second two-dimensional code print area (S704). If there is an overlap, the process proceeds to S705. .

  From the position information of the second two-dimensional code and the position information of the first two-dimensional code acquired in steps S701 and S702, the image forming apparatus uses the second two-dimensional code area that does not overlap with the first two-dimensional code area. Is acquired (S705). FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a state in which the first two-dimensional code 21 is printed on the second two-dimensional code 11. In the figure, a circled area (information embedding tile) is an area where they do not overlap.

  The image forming apparatus compares the number of areas of the second two-dimensional code that do not overlap with the first two-dimensional code with a predetermined value (S706). The image forming apparatus prints the first two-dimensional code on the second two-dimensional code when the number of areas of the second two-dimensional code that does not overlap with the first two-dimensional code is larger than a predetermined value. Even if it is determined that the information can be restored, it is determined that the first two-dimensional code can be printed (S708). On the other hand, if the number of the second two-dimensional code areas that do not overlap the first two-dimensional code is smaller than the predetermined value, the second two-dimensional code information is printed when the first two-dimensional code is printed. Therefore, it is determined that the first two-dimensional code cannot be printed (S707).

  The description returns to the flowchart shown in FIG.

If it is determined in step S505 that the first two-dimensional code can be printed, the image forming apparatus combines the first two-dimensional code with the second two-dimensional code on the input image (S506), and performs printing. (S507). On the other hand, when it is determined that the first two-dimensional code cannot be printed, the image forming apparatus cancels the job (S508). Note that the image forming apparatus may copy the input image as it is without canceling the job and without synthesizing the first two-dimensional code.
The image forming apparatus may further include a unit that determines whether to cancel the job based on a value set by the user when it is determined that the second dimension code is not printable.

  As described above, according to the second embodiment, when a document in which a two-dimensional code is already embedded is copied, a new two-dimensional code is embedded in consideration of a minimum area where information can be restored from the two-dimensional code. Therefore, many types of two-dimensional codes can be embedded.

  In the first embodiment and the second embodiment, it is determined whether or not a new two-dimensional code (first two-dimensional code) designated at the time of copying can be printed. It was controlled not to do. On the other hand, in the third embodiment, control is performed to adjust the printing position of the newly embedded two-dimensional code according to the area of the already embedded two-dimensional code (second two-dimensional code).

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating the processing of the third embodiment.

The processing of S901 to S903 is the same as the processing of S501 to S503 shown in FIG.
The image forming apparatus determines whether or not an instruction to embed a first two-dimensional code, which is a new two-dimensional code, is given as a setting at the time of copying (S904), and an instruction to embed the first two-dimensional code is issued. If not, the copying operation is continued and printing is performed (S910). On the other hand, when the instruction to embed the first two-dimensional code is given, the image forming apparatus proceeds to the process of S905.

  The image forming apparatus acquires the size of the output document (S905).

  The image forming apparatus determines whether the first two-dimensional code embedding method is a simple embedding method or an iterative embedding method (S906). If the embedding method is the simple embedding method, the process proceeds to S907. Advances to the processing of S911.

When the first two-dimensional code embedding method is the repetitive embedding method, the image forming apparatus synthesizes the first two-dimensional code so as not to be embedded in the second two-dimensional code print area (S911). Printing is performed (S910). On the other hand, when the first two-dimensional code embedding method is the simple embedding method, a region for embedding the first two-dimensional code is searched so as not to overlap the second two-dimensional code (S907). It is determined whether or not the first two-dimensional code can be embedded in the area (S908). FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a search for an area in which the first two-dimensional code is embedded. The search is performed by determining whether or not the first two-dimensional code 23 can be embedded in any of the eight regions ((1) to (8)) around the second two-dimensional code 22. The image forming apparatus makes a determination based on the position coordinates and size of the second two-dimensional code 22, the size of the first two-dimensional code 23, and the size of the printed document. If it is determined that embedding is possible in any of the eight areas, the image forming apparatus embeds the first two-dimensional code in the embedding area and performs printing (S909, S910). On the other hand, if it is determined that none of the eight areas can be embedded, the image forming apparatus determines that the first two-dimensional code cannot be embedded, and cancels the job (S912). Note that the image forming apparatus may copy the input image as it is without canceling the job and without synthesizing the first two-dimensional code. The image forming apparatus may further include a unit that determines whether to cancel the job based on a value set by the user when it is determined that the second dimension code is not printable.

  In the third embodiment, whether or not the first two-dimensional code can be embedded is determined for the eight areas shown in FIG. 10, but other determination methods and embedding positions may be specified. For example, a configuration may be adopted in which a user who gives a copy instruction designates an embedding position of the first two-dimensional code.

  As described above, according to the third embodiment, when a document in which a two-dimensional code is already embedded is copied, the already embedded two-dimensional code is damaged by embedding a new two-dimensional code. Can be prevented. Furthermore, since a new two-dimensional code is embedded so as not to overlap an already embedded two-dimensional code region, many types of two-dimensional codes can be embedded.

  In the fourth embodiment, when information is embedded at the time of printing after image synthesis (overlay) of a document in which the two-dimensional code is embedded in the form data in which the two-dimensional code is already embedded using the information embedding technique described above. Indicates processing. Specifically, an embedding control process for preventing the two-dimensional code already embedded in the form data from overlapping with the newly embedded two-dimensional code is shown.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the processing of the fourth embodiment when registering form data.

  The image forming apparatus receives form data from a host computer such as a personal computer or a server (S1201).

  Upon receiving form data from the host computer, the image forming apparatus determines whether or not a two-dimensional code is embedded in the input image (form data) (S1202). If the two-dimensional code is not embedded in the input image, the image forming apparatus continues the form registration operation as it is (S1205). On the other hand, when the two-dimensional code is embedded in the input image, the image forming apparatus specifies the position of the two-dimensional code and the embedding method (S1203). Next, the image forming apparatus creates a two-dimensional code-only layer (two-dimensional code layer such as a digital watermark information layer) based on the position and embedding method of the two-dimensional code specified in S1203, and generates the two-dimensional code. The layer is stored in the storage device (S1204). Then, the image forming apparatus creates a data-only layer (image layer) that does not include the two-dimensional code, and stores it in the storage device (S1207).

  Here, the two-dimensional code in the fourth embodiment may be either the first two-dimensional code or the second two-dimensional code.

  Next, the operation of the image forming apparatus according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

  When the image data to be combined with the form data registered in the processing shown in FIG. 12 is input to the image forming apparatus, the image forming apparatus receives the two-dimensional code included in the form data and the two-dimensional code included in the image data. It has a function to prevent the codes from overlapping.

  In FIG. 13, the image forming apparatus receives print data for printing from the host computer (S1301). The image forming apparatus determines whether or not an instruction to synthesize the form data registered in FIG. 12 is given as a setting at the time of printing (S1302). If form data composition is not designated, the image forming apparatus continues the printing operation as it is and performs printing (S1308). On the other hand, when form data composition is designated, the image forming apparatus determines whether a two-dimensional code is embedded in the print data (S1303). If the two-dimensional code is not embedded in the print data, the process proceeds to S1305. When the two-dimensional code is embedded in the print data, the image forming apparatus specifies the type of the two-dimensional code in the print data and the position of the two-dimensional code in the print data (S1304). Next, the image forming apparatus determines whether a two-dimensional code is embedded in the form data (S1305). When the two-dimensional code is not embedded in the form data, the image forming apparatus combines the form data and the print data (S1309). When the 2D code is embedded in the form data, the image forming device determines whether the 2D code in the form data and the 2D code in the print data overlap when the form data and print data are combined. (S1306). If the two-dimensional code in the form data and the two-dimensional code in the print data do not overlap, the image forming unit synthesizes the form data and the print data (S1309). When the two-dimensional code in the form data and the two-dimensional code in the print data overlap, the image forming apparatus synthesizes the print data with the data (image layer) that does not include the two-dimensional code in the form data (in the form data). Are not synthesized) (S1307). Next, the image forming apparatus prints the print data synthesized in S1307 (S1308).

  Here, the case where print data is received from the host computer has been described. However, even when copy data for copying is received from a scanner connected to the image forming apparatus, the same means as in this embodiment may be used. good.

  As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, when printing the print data in which the two-dimensional code is embedded in the state in which the form data in which the two-dimensional code is embedded and the print data are instructed, The embedding of the two-dimensional code can be controlled so that the two-dimensional code is not damaged.

  In the fifth embodiment, an operation when the embedding of the two-dimensional code is set in the image forming apparatus (setting for adding a two-dimensional code) in addition to the synthesis of the form data registered in advance and the print data will be described. Table 3 is a table showing combinations of the presence / absence of each setting for embedding a two-dimensional code in the image forming apparatus and the print result in addition to the combination of form data registered in advance and print data.

  In Table 3, the upper part of the diagonal line in each square indicates the configuration of the image data, and the square in which a plurality of elements are written in the configuration of the image data indicates that each image is superimposed. Show. The lower part of the diagonal line in each square shows the structure of the two-dimensional code. A square in which a plurality of elements are written in the configuration of the two-dimensional code indicates that all the two-dimensional codes are printed when the two-dimensional codes do not overlap. Further, the square indicates that when a part of each two-dimensional code overlaps, a two-dimensional code that does not overlap is printed. Further, the square indicates that any two-dimensional code is printed when all the two-dimensional codes overlap. A row 1 column and B row 1 column indicate presence / absence of image data and two-dimensional code in print data, C row indicates presence / absence of image data and two-dimensional code in form data, and D row indicates embedding Indicates whether image data and a two-dimensional code are being set. A row 2 columns to 7 columns and B row 2 columns to 7 columns indicate configurations of image data and two-dimensional codes of printed data.

  Next, the operation of the image forming apparatus according to the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

  The image forming apparatus has a function of preventing overlapping of two-dimensional codes when the form data registered in the processing shown in FIG. 12 and image data for image synthesis are input to the image forming apparatus. Specifically, the image forming apparatus has a function of preventing the two-dimensional code included in the form data, the two-dimensional code included in the image data, and the two-dimensional code set to forced embedding in the image forming apparatus from overlapping. Have

  In FIG. 14, the image forming apparatus receives print data for printing from the host computer (S1401). The image forming apparatus determines whether an instruction to synthesize form data registered in the process shown in FIG. 12 is given as a setting at the time of printing (S1402). If form data composition is not designated, the process advances to step S1408. On the other hand, when the form data combination is designated, the image forming apparatus determines whether the two-dimensional code is embedded in the print data (S1403). If the two-dimensional code is not embedded in the print data, the process proceeds to S1405. When the two-dimensional code is embedded in the print data, the image forming apparatus specifies the type of the two-dimensional code in the print data and the position of the two-dimensional code in the print data (S1404).

  Next, the image forming apparatus determines whether a two-dimensional code is embedded in the form data (S1405). If the two-dimensional code is not embedded in the form data, the image forming apparatus synthesizes the form data and the print data (S1412). When the 2D code is embedded in the form data, the image forming device determines whether the 2D code in the form data and the 2D code in the print data overlap when the form data and print data are combined. (S1406). If the two-dimensional code in the form data and the two-dimensional code in the print data do not overlap, the image forming apparatus synthesizes the form data and the print data (S1412). When the two-dimensional code in the form data and the two-dimensional code in the print data overlap, the image forming apparatus synthesizes the print data with the data (image layer) that does not include the two-dimensional code in the form data, and forms data The two-dimensional code inside is not synthesized (S1407).

  Next, the image forming apparatus determines whether the setting of two-dimensional code embedding (forced embedding setting) is set in the apparatus (S1408). If the forced embedding is not set, the image forming apparatus prints the print data synthesized in S1412 or S1407 (S1411).

  Next, when the two-dimensional code embedding setting (forced embedding setting) is set in the image forming apparatus, it is determined whether or not the two-dimensional code overlaps when the two-dimensional code is embedded (S1409). Specifically, the image forming apparatus, when combining the print data combined in S1412 or S1407 and the two-dimensional code embedded by setting, the two-dimensional code in the combined print data and the two-dimensional embedded by setting Determine if code overlaps. If the two-dimensional code in the print data synthesized in S1412 or S1407 and the two-dimensional code embedded by setting overlap, the image forming apparatus determines whether the setting is to print even if the two-dimensional code overlaps (S1413). If the setting is to print even if two-dimensional codes overlap, the image forming apparatus performs printing (S1411). If the setting is made not to print if the two-dimensional code overlaps, the image forming apparatus cancels the print job (S1414). In S1409, if the two-dimensional code in the print data synthesized in S1412 or S1407 does not overlap with the two-dimensional code embedded by setting, the process proceeds to S1410. In S1410, the image forming apparatus synthesizes the two-dimensional code in the print data synthesized in S1412 or S1407 and the two-dimensional code embedded by setting (S1410), and prints the data synthesized in S1410 (S1411). .

  As described above, the image forming apparatus determines whether the input image includes a two-dimensional code, whether the image forming apparatus is set to add a two-dimensional code, and the form data to be combined with the input image. Determine whether a two-dimensional code is included. Then, whether or not print output is possible is determined according to these three determination results, and the two-dimensional code for print output is switched.

  Although not shown in the figure, the image forming apparatus includes an instruction unit, a first detection unit, a first composite image formation unit, a storage unit, a second detection unit, and a second composite image. The configuration may include a forming unit and an output unit, and each unit may execute processing described below.

  The instructing unit instructs the first input image (print data) to synthesize the first code image (first two-dimensional code).

  The first detection unit detects whether the second code image (second two-dimensional code) is included in the first input image (print data).

  When the first detection unit detects the second code image (second two-dimensional code), the first composite image forming unit detects the first input image (print data) and the first code image (first data). 1) is not synthesized. On the other hand, when the first detection unit does not detect the second code image (second two-dimensional code), the first input image (print data) and the first code image (first two-dimensional code) are detected. Code).

  The storage unit stores a second input image (form data).

  The second detection unit detects whether the third code image (third two-dimensional code) is included in the second input image (form data).

  When the second detection unit detects the third code image (third two-dimensional code), the second composite image forming unit outputs the first composite image output by the first composite image forming unit, The second input image (form data) that does not include the third code image (third two-dimensional code) is synthesized. On the other hand, when the second detection unit does not detect the third code image (third two-dimensional code), the first synthesized image output by the first synthesized image forming unit and the third code The second input image (form data) including the image (third two-dimensional code) is synthesized.

  The output unit outputs the second composite image from the second composite image forming unit.

  According to the fifth embodiment, when printing the print data in which the document in which the two-dimensional code is embedded is printed on the form data in which the two-dimensional code is already embedded, the new two-dimensional code is added and printed. Even so, the two-dimensional code can be prevented from being damaged.

(Other examples)
For the sake of explanation, the form data has been described as being received from the host computer. However, the form data can be transferred from any device that can transfer image data, such as input from a scanner connected to the image forming device. May be entered.

  In the first to third embodiments, the case where an original input from a scanner connected to the image forming apparatus is copied has been described as an example. However, the print data can be input from any device that can transfer the image data to the image forming apparatus as in the case of printing the print data received from the host computer as in the fourth or fifth embodiment. good.

  An object of the present invention is to read and execute a program code by a computer (or CPU or MPU) of a system or apparatus from a recording medium that records the program code that achieves the operation (step) of the configuration shown in the above-described embodiment. Can also be achieved. A recording medium is a computer-readable recording medium. In this case, the program code itself read from the computer-readable recording medium realizes the functions of the above-described embodiment. Therefore, the program code and a recording medium on which the program code is recorded also constitute one of the present invention.

  As a recording medium for supplying the program code, for example, a floppy (registered trademark) disk, a hard disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a CD-ROM, a CD-R, a magnetic tape, a nonvolatile memory card, a ROM, or the like is used. be able to.

  In addition, a case where an OS (operating system) or the like running on a computer performs part or all of actual processing based on an instruction of the program code and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing is included. It is.

  Further, the program code read from the recording medium is written in a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer. Thereafter, the CPU of the function expansion board or function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing based on the instruction of the program code, and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing.

10 Document 20 in which 2D code is embedded by repetitive embedding method Document in which 2D code is embedded by simple embedding method

Claims (19)

Scanning means for scanning a document including a repetitive embedding code;
A determination unit that determines whether a setting to synthesize a code of a simple embedding method is performed on a scanned image or a setting to synthesize a code of an iterative embedding method;
When it is determined that the setting for synthesizing the simple embedding method code to the scan image is performed by the determination unit, the synthesizing unit for synthesizing the scan image obtained by the scan and the code of the simple embedding method;
Printing means,
The printing means includes
When it is determined that the setting for synthesizing the code of the simple embedding method is performed on the scanned image by the determination unit, the synthesis result by the synthesis unit is printed,
When the determination unit determines that the setting for synthesizing the repetitive embedding code with the scan image is performed, the apparatus does not print the scan image obtained by the scan. The synthesis means includes
If the determination unit determines that the setting for synthesizing the simple embedding code to the scan image has been made, a position that overlaps the position where the repetitive embedding code is included in the scan image obtained by the scan The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the simple embedding code is synthesized.   The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising means for determining whether a scan image obtained by the scan includes a repetitive embedding code. The scanning unit can further scan a document including a simple embedding code,
When it is determined that the setting for synthesizing the code of the simple embedding method is performed on the scanned image by the determination unit,
The synthesis means is configured to perform the simple embedding in a region corresponding to a position where the code of the simple embedding method is included in a scan image including the code of the simple embedding method obtained by the scanning. Synthesize the code of the method,
The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the printing unit prints an image in which the code of the simple embedding method is combined in the area. Before synthesizing the scan image obtained by the scan by the synthesizing unit and the code of the simple embedding method,
The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an image processing unit that performs processing on the scanned image. The scanning unit can further scan a document including a simple embedding code,
When it is determined that the setting for combining the code of the repetitive embedding method is performed on the scanned image by the determination unit,
The synthesis means includes
In the scan image including the code of the simple embedding method obtained by the scan, the code of the iterative embedding method is synthesized so as not to overlap the position where the code of the simple embedding method is included,
The printing means includes
The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein an image in which the repetitive embedding code is combined so as not to overlap a position where the simple embedding code is included is printed. A scanning step for scanning a document including a repetitive embedding code;
A determination step for determining whether the setting for synthesizing the code of the simple embedding method is performed on the scanned image or the setting for synthesizing the code of the repetitive embedding method is performed;
If it is determined that the setting for synthesizing the simple embedding code to the scan image is performed in the determination step, a synthesizing step of synthesizing the scan image obtained by the scan and the code of the simple embedding method;
A printing step,
The printing step includes
If it is determined in the determination step that the setting for combining the code of the simple embedding method has been performed on the scanned image, the combination result of the combination step is printed,
A method of not printing the scan image obtained by the scan when it is determined in the determination step that the setting for synthesizing the repetitive embedding code is performed on the scan image. The synthesis step includes
If it is determined in the determination step that the setting for synthesizing the simple embedding method code to the scan image has been made, a position that overlaps the position where the code of the repetitive embedding method is included in the scan image obtained by the scan The method according to claim 7, wherein the simple embedding code is synthesized.   9. The method according to claim 7, further comprising a step of determining whether a scan image obtained by the scan includes a repetitive embedding code. The scanning step can further scan a document including a simple embedding code,
If it is determined in the determination step that the setting for synthesizing the code of the simple embedding method is performed on the scanned image,
In the combining step, the simple embedding is performed in the area corresponding to the position where the code of the simple embedding method is included in the scan image including the code of the simple embedding method obtained by the scanning. Synthesize the code of the method,
The method according to claim 7, wherein the printing step prints an image in which the code of the simple embedding method is combined in the area. Before synthesizing the scan image obtained by the scan in the synthesis step and the code of the simple embedding method,
The method according to claim 7, further comprising an image processing step for performing processing on the scanned image. The scanning step can further scan a document including a simple embedding code,
If it is determined in the determination step that the setting for synthesizing the repetitive embedding code is performed on the scanned image,
In the scan image including the code of the simple embedding method obtained by the scan, the code of the iterative embedding method is synthesized so as not to overlap the position where the code of the simple embedding method is included,
The printing step includes
The method according to claim 7, wherein an image in which the code of the repetitive embedding method is combined so as not to overlap the position where the code of the simple embedding method is included is printed. Scanning means for scanning a document including a repetitive embedding code;
A determination unit that determines whether a setting to synthesize a code of a simple embedding method is performed on a scanned image or a setting to synthesize a code of an iterative embedding method;
When it is determined that the setting for synthesizing the simple embedding method code to the scan image is performed by the determination unit, the synthesizing unit for synthesizing the scan image obtained by the scan and the code of the simple embedding method;
Printing means,
The printing means includes
When it is determined that the setting for synthesizing the code of the simple embedding method is performed on the scanned image by the determination unit, the synthesis result by the synthesis unit is printed,
When the determination unit determines that the setting for synthesizing the repetitive embedding code with the scan image is performed, the system does not print the scan image obtained by the scan. The synthesis means includes
If the determination unit determines that the setting for synthesizing the simple embedding code to the scan image has been made, a position that overlaps the position where the repetitive embedding code is included in the scan image obtained by the scan 14. The system according to claim 13, wherein the simple embedding code is synthesized.   15. The system according to claim 13, further comprising means for determining whether a scan image obtained by the scan includes a repetitive embedding code. The scanning unit can further scan a document including a simple embedding code,
When it is determined that the setting for synthesizing the code of the simple embedding method is performed on the scanned image by the determination unit,
The synthesis means is configured to perform the simple embedding in a region corresponding to a position where the code of the simple embedding method is included in a scan image including the code of the simple embedding method obtained by the scanning. Synthesize the code of the method,
The printing means A system according to any one of claims 13 to 15, characterized in that to print the image code of the simple embedding method were synthesized on the region. Before synthesizing the scan image obtained by the scan by the synthesizing unit and the code of the simple embedding method,
The system according to claim 13, further comprising an image processing unit that performs processing on the scanned image. The scanning unit can further scan a document including a simple embedding code,
When it is determined that the setting for combining the code of the repetitive embedding method is performed on the scanned image by the determination unit,
The synthesis means includes
In the scan image including the code of the simple embedding method obtained by the scan, the code of the iterative embedding method is synthesized so as not to overlap the position where the code of the simple embedding method is included,
The printing means includes
The system according to any one of claims 13 to 17, wherein an image in which the code of the repetitive embedding method is combined so as not to overlap the position where the code of the simple embedding method is included is printed.   A program for causing a computer to execute the method according to any one of claims 7 to 12.

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