JP6277880B2 - Information code medium and information code utilization system - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an information code medium and an information code utilization system.

  At present, the use of information codes is diversified, and a technique for arranging photographs and drawings in the code area has also been proposed. For example, in the technique of Patent Document 1, an inversely converted bit string obtained by inversely converting a bit string that forms an area to be read as a single value in a two-dimensional code is obtained, and the inversely converted bit string is converted based on the format information of the two-dimensional code. By generating a two-dimensional code, a special two-dimensional code having a design area composed of a single gradation value is generated.

Japanese Patent No. 5057560

  By the way, the conventional information code having the design area has a structure in which a large number of cells are arranged around the design area, and it is an essential structure to express the cell area and the design integrally. It is not suitable for applications where recognition of each cell is not desired. For example, when it is desired to suppress the cell display of the data recording area in terms of design or to suppress the cell display of the data recording area in terms of security, the existing design code cannot meet this requirement.

  The present invention has been made in order to solve the above-described problem, and an empty area in which data can be recorded or a design can be displayed by a method different from a method of recording data in the data recording area is included in the code area. To provide a technology that makes it difficult to visually recognize the specific configuration of the data recording area arranged around the empty area in a predetermined first state in which light of a predetermined wavelength band is irradiated. With the goal.

1st invention is the information code medium which formed the information code which arranged the cell used as the unit which displays information inside the predetermined code field in the predetermined formation object medium,
A specific pattern area in which a specific pattern having a predetermined shape is arranged inside the code area; a data recording area for recording data by a plurality of types of cells; and a method for recording data in the data recording area; Are provided with free areas that allow data recording or design display in different ways,
The data recording area arranged around the empty area is in a predetermined difficult-to-view state in which it is difficult to visually identify a plurality of types of cells in a predetermined first state irradiated with light of a predetermined first wavelength band. next, the configuration der as a plurality of kinds of said cells capable predetermined identifiable specific state in a predetermined second state in which light is irradiated for a different second wavelength band from the first wavelength band is,
The empty area is a target area where predetermined image processing is performed in response to reading of the information code,
In the data recording area, as usage data used when the image processing is performed, at least a part of the image of the empty area or analysis data obtained by analyzing the image of the empty area is compared. Comparative data is characterized that you have been recorded.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a forming apparatus for forming an information code medium in which information codes in which cells serving as units for displaying information are arranged in a predetermined code area are represented on a predetermined formation target medium;
An information code reader capable of reading the information code of the information code medium formed by the forming device;
An information code using system comprising:
The forming apparatus includes:
A specific pattern area in which a specific pattern having a predetermined shape is arranged inside the code area; a data recording area for recording data by a plurality of types of cells; and a method for recording data in the data recording area; Provides free space that allows data recording or design display in different ways,
The configuration of the data recording area arranged around the empty area is a predetermined visual recognition in which it is difficult to visually identify a plurality of types of cells in a predetermined first state where light of a predetermined first wavelength band is irradiated. In a predetermined second state in which a plurality of types of cells can be specified in a predetermined second state in which light having a second wavelength band different from the first wavelength band is irradiated, which is in a difficult state. In the configuration, forming the information code on the medium to be formed,
The information code reader is
An imaging unit capable of imaging the information code;
A data recording area reading unit for reading data recorded in the data recording area when the information code is imaged by the imaging unit;
An image processing unit that performs predetermined image processing on the image of the empty area in the code image of the information code imaged by the imaging unit;
I have a,
The forming apparatus uses at least a part of the image of the empty area or comparison data for comparison with analysis data obtained by analyzing the image of the empty area, utilization data used when the image processing is performed The information code is formed on the medium to be formed with the configuration recorded in the data recording area .

According to the first aspect of the present invention, the code area can be provided with an empty area in which data can be recorded or the design can be displayed by a method different from the method for recording data in the data recording area. The degree of freedom of use can be increased. In addition, since the specific configuration of the data recording area disposed around the empty area is difficult to visually recognize in an environment where light in the first wavelength band is irradiated, the specific configuration of the data recording area is determined in that environment. This is particularly advantageous in applications that do not want to stand out. On the other hand, in the second state in which light in the second wavelength band is irradiated, a plurality of types of cells constituting the data recording area can be specified. Therefore, if reading is performed on condition that the light of the second wavelength band is irradiated, it is possible to read data by specifying a plurality of types of cells even in a data recording region that is difficult to see in the above-mentioned environment. It becomes.
Furthermore, the empty area is a target area where predetermined image processing is performed in response to reading of the information code, and usage data used when the image processing is performed is recorded in the data recording area.
With this configuration, it is possible to use not only data or design in the free area but also predetermined image processing on the free area. In addition, since data (usage data) recorded in the data recording area can be used in association with image processing, the degree of freedom in using an image in a free area can be greatly increased. .
In particular, comparison data for comparison with analysis data obtained by analyzing at least a part of an image in the free area or an image in the free area is recorded in the data recording area as use data. According to this configuration, since the image to be used and the comparison data for performing the comparison can be acquired at the same time by one imaging, the image (empty area image) and the data (comparison data) to be associated with each other can be obtained. Accurate acquisition is possible, and working time and processing time can be shortened easily.

  In the invention of claim 2, at least one of the data and the design represented in the empty area is at least partially visible in the first state. In this configuration, the data recording area arranged around the empty area is less noticeable in the environment where the light of the first wavelength band is irradiated, while the design represented in the empty area is visible. Can do. Therefore, under the above-described environment, it is possible to display the design expressed in the free space more prominently.

  In the invention of claim 3, the configuration of the specific pattern region arranged around the empty region is a configuration that becomes a predetermined invisible state in which it is difficult to visually recognize the shape of the specific pattern region in the first state, and It can be set as the structure which will be in the predetermined | prescribed visualization state which can visually recognize the shape of the said specific pattern area | region in a 2nd state. In this configuration, it is possible to make it difficult to visually recognize not only the data recording area but also the specific pattern area in an environment where light in the first wavelength band is irradiated. This is particularly advantageous in applications where it is not desired. On the other hand, in the second state where light in the second wavelength band is irradiated, the specific pattern region can be specified. Therefore, if reading is performed on condition that the light of the second wavelength band is irradiated, the shape can be recognized more accurately even in a specific pattern region that is difficult to visually recognize in the above-described environment. Is easily performed well.

  In the invention of claim 4, the entire area outside the empty area in the code area is composed of a light color area and a dark color area, and the entire area is distinguished from the light color area and the dark color area in the first state. This is a configuration in which it becomes a difficult to visually recognize state, and a visually recognizable state in which the bright color region and the dark color region can be distinguished in the second state. As described above, it is difficult to distinguish between the light color area and the dark color area in the first state after a simple configuration in which the entire area outside the empty area in the code area is represented by the light color area and the dark color area. If it is configured to be in a difficult state, it is possible to make the entire area outside the vacant area in the code area inconspicuous under the light environment of the first wavelength band. As a result, the display of the empty area is less likely to be affected by the light and dark structure outside the space area.

According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, each cell of any one type of the data recording area arranged around the empty area is caused by the luminescent ink that is in the non-light emitting state in the first state and in the light emitting state in the second state. Each of the other types of cells that are formed and different from the one type has a configuration in which no luminescent ink is applied.
According to this configuration, it is possible to make the state of each cell of one type different from the state of each cell of other cells more clearly in the second state by a simple configuration such as applying luminescent ink.

  According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, predetermined relevant information related to the data or design represented in the empty area is recorded in the data recording area. This configuration is particularly advantageous in applications where it is desired not only to represent data or design in the free space but also to read and use information related to the data or design represented in the free space.

In the invention of claim 7 , the empty area is configured as an addable area where an image can be added after the formation of the information code. In this configuration, the information recorded in the data recording area is Other additional information can be used later, and the convenience in using a characteristic information code having a free space is further increased.

In the invention of claim 8 , a range specifying image showing the range of the addable region is represented in the free region. The data recording area around the empty area is difficult to see under normal circumstances, so if there is no mark in the empty area, the position of the area that can be added under normal conditions is difficult to understand, and it is difficult to enter the correct position. However, according to this configuration, it is easy to solve such a problem.

According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, position data indicating the position of the empty area in the code area is recorded in the data recording area. According to this configuration, it is possible to realize an information code in which the position of the empty area in the code image can be more accurately specified based on the position data recorded in the data recording area.

According to the tenth aspect of the present invention, an information code utilization system having the same effect as the first aspect can be realized.
According to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, it is possible to realize an information code utilization system that exhibits the same effect as the second aspect.
According to the twelfth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to realize an information code utilization system that has the same effect as the third aspect.
According to the thirteenth aspect of the present invention, an information code utilization system having the same effect as that of the fourth aspect can be realized.
According to the fourteenth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to realize an information code utilization system that exhibits the same effect as the fifth aspect.
According to the fifteenth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to realize an information code utilization system that has the same effect as the sixth aspect.
According to the sixteenth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to realize an information code utilization system that has the same effect as the seventh aspect.
According to the seventeenth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to realize an information code utilization system that has the same effect as the eighth aspect.
According to the eighteenth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to realize an information code utilization system that exhibits the same effect as the ninth aspect .

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram schematically illustrating an information code utilization system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically illustrating an electrical configuration of an information code reading device that constitutes the information code utilization system of FIG. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram for conceptually explaining the data configuration of the information code used in the information code utilization system of FIG. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram for explaining another type of code corresponding to the information code used in the information code utilization system of FIG. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the correspondence between the arrangement of each data word in the information code used in the information code utilization system of FIG. 1 and the arrangement of each data word in another type of code. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram conceptually illustrating the format data of the information code used in the information code utilization system of FIG. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the correspondence between the arrangement of each data word in the information code used in the information code utilization system of FIG. 1 and the arrangement of each data word in another type of code. It is the figure changed into the different correspondence. FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of forming an information code in the forming apparatus constituting the information code utilization system of FIG. FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of reading an information code in the information code reading device constituting the information code utilization system of FIG. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing an information code medium formed by the information code utilization system of FIG. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of an information code medium used in the information code utilization system according to the second embodiment. FIG. 12A is an explanatory diagram showing a state before a blank area of the information code is stamped in the information code medium of FIG. 11, and FIG. It is explanatory drawing which shows the state after a stamp was attached | subjected to the empty area | region of the code | cord | chord. FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of reading an information code in the information code reading device constituting the information code utilization system of the second embodiment. FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the concept of extracting feature points from an image of an imprint in the second embodiment. FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram for conceptually explaining a method for generating comparison data in the second embodiment. FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram conceptually illustrating comparison data used in the second embodiment. FIG. 17A is an explanatory diagram illustrating an information code used in the information code utilization system according to the third embodiment, and FIG. 17B is an explanatory diagram illustrating a state where a fingerprint is attached to the information code. It is. FIG. 18A is an explanatory diagram illustrating an information code used in the information code utilization system according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 18B is an explanatory diagram illustrating a state in which a sign is written on the information code. is there. FIG. 19 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the concept of extracting feature points from a signature image in the fourth embodiment. FIG. 20 is an explanatory diagram illustrating information codes used in the information code utilization system according to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 21 is an explanatory diagram for conceptually explaining a reading state in the information code utilization system according to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 22 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an information code used in the information code utilization system according to the sixth embodiment, and FIG. 22 (A) is a diagram showing a state where an empty area is blank, and FIG. B) is a diagram illustrating a state in which a signature image is represented in an empty area. FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an information code used in the information code utilization system according to the seventh embodiment. FIG. 23 (A) is a diagram showing a state in which a free area is left blank, and FIG. B) is a diagram illustrating a state in which a signature image is represented in an empty area. 24A is an explanatory diagram conceptually showing the data structure of the data to be decoded in the information code of FIG. 22, and FIG. 24B conceptually shows the data structure of the data to be decoded in the information code of FIG. FIG. FIG. 25 is an explanatory diagram illustrating information codes used in an information code utilization system according to another embodiment. FIG. 26 is an explanatory diagram illustrating another example of an information code used in an information code utilization system according to another embodiment. FIG. 27 is an explanatory diagram for explaining another example 2 of the information code used in the information code utilization system according to another embodiment.

[First embodiment]
Hereinafter, a first embodiment embodying the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
The information code utilization system 1 shown in FIG. 1 generates an information code 100 in which cells serving as units for displaying information are arranged inside a predetermined code area, and this information code 100 is formed as an object 150 (formation target medium). Are formed, and an information code reading device 10 for reading the information code 100 of the information code medium P generated by the forming device 2 is provided.

(Forming equipment)
The forming device 2 is configured as an information processing device such as a personal computer, for example, and includes a control unit 3 including a CPU, an operation unit 4 including a keyboard, a mouse, and other input devices, a ROM, a RAM, an HDD, and a nonvolatile memory. Functions as a storage interface 5 including a storage device such as a volatile memory, a display portion 6 including a known display device (liquid crystal display or other display device), and a communication interface for performing wired communication or wireless communication with an external device And a printing unit 8 (printing apparatus) that has the same hardware configuration as that of a known printer and can print the information code 100 or the like based on print data from the control unit 3.

(Information code reader)
Next, the overall configuration of the information code reader 10 will be described. As shown in FIG. 2, the information code reader 10 is configured as a code reader capable of reading an information code such as a two-dimensional code in hardware, and an outer case is configured by a case (housing) not shown. In this case, various electronic components are accommodated in the case.

  The information code reader 10 mainly includes an optical system such as an illumination light source 21, a light receiving sensor 23, a filter 25, and an imaging lens 27, and a micro memory such as a memory 35, a control circuit 40, an operation switch 42, and a liquid crystal display 46. It is composed of a computer (hereinafter referred to as “microcomputer”) system and a power supply system such as a power switch 41 and a battery 49. These components are mounted on a printed wiring board (not shown) or built in a case (not shown), and are integrally assembled to the case (housing).

  The optical system includes an illumination light source 21, a light receiving sensor 23, a filter 25, an imaging lens 27, and the like. The illumination light source 21 functions as an illumination light source capable of emitting the illumination light Lf, and is configured by, for example, a light source that emits ultraviolet light. In this configuration, since dark cells of the information code 100 described later are formed of ultraviolet light-emitting ink, the illumination light source 21 is configured of an ultraviolet light source that can irradiate light (ultraviolet light) that causes the dark cells to emit light. However, for example, the dark cell of the information code 100 to be described later can be formed of infrared light-emitting ink, and in this case, the illumination light source 21 is composed of an infrared light source that can emit light (infrared light) that causes the dark cell to emit light. do it. In the present embodiment, illumination light sources 21 are provided on both sides of the light receiving sensor 23, and the illumination light Lf can be irradiated toward the reading object R through a reading port (not shown) formed in the case. It is configured. As this reading object R, various objects, such as a resin material and a metal material, can be considered, for example. In the following description, an example in which the reading object R is the information code medium P (the medium on which the information code is formed on the forming object 150) illustrated in FIG.

  The light receiving sensor 23 corresponds to an example of an “imaging unit” that can image the information code 100 shown in FIG. 1 and the like, and is configured to receive the reflected light Lr irradiated and reflected on the forming object 150 and the information code 100. For example, an area sensor in which light receiving elements that are solid-state imaging elements such as C-MOS and CCD are two-dimensionally arranged corresponds to this. The light receiving sensor 23 is mounted on a printed wiring board (not shown) in such a configuration that incident light incident via the imaging lens 27 can be received by the light receiving surface 23a.

  The filter 25 is, for example, an optical low-pass filter that allows passage of light having a wavelength less than or equal to the wavelength of the reflected light Lr and blocks passage of light that exceeds the wavelength. And the imaging lens 27. Thereby, unnecessary light exceeding the wavelength equivalent of the reflected light Lr is prevented from entering the light receiving sensor 23. In addition, the imaging lens 27 includes, for example, a lens barrel and a plurality of condensing lenses housed in the lens barrel. In this configuration, the imaging lens 27 is incident on a reading port (not shown) formed in the case. The reflected light Lr is condensed, and a code image of the information code 100 is formed on the light receiving surface 23 a of the light receiving sensor 23.

  The microcomputer system includes an amplification circuit 31, an A / D conversion circuit 33, a memory 35, an address generation circuit 36, a synchronization signal generation circuit 38, a control circuit 40, an operation switch 42, an LED 43, a buzzer 44, a liquid crystal display 46, and a communication interface 48. Etc. This microcomputer system is configured around a control circuit 40 and a memory 35 that can function as a microcomputer (information processing apparatus), and the image signal of the information code 100 captured by the optical system described above is signaled in hardware and software. It can be processed.

  An image signal (analog signal) output from the light receiving sensor 23 of the optical system is input to the amplifier circuit 31 to be amplified with a predetermined gain, and then input to the A / D conversion circuit 33 to be converted into a digital signal from the analog signal. Is converted to The digitized image signal, that is, image data (image information) is input to the memory 35 and stored in the image data storage area of the memory 35. The synchronization signal generation circuit 38 is configured to generate a synchronization signal for the light receiving sensor 23 and the address generation circuit 36. The address generation circuit 36 is based on the synchronization signal supplied from the synchronization signal generation circuit 38. Thus, the storage address of the image data stored in the memory 35 can be generated.

  The memory 35 is configured by a semiconductor memory device or the like, and corresponds to, for example, a RAM, a ROM, other nonvolatile memories, and the like. In addition to the above-described image data storage area, the RAM of the memory 35 is configured to be able to secure a work area and a reading condition table that are used by the control circuit 40 in each processing such as arithmetic operation and logical operation. . The ROM stores in advance a predetermined program that can execute a reading process and the like that will be described later, and a system program that can control each piece of hardware such as the illumination light source 21 and the light receiving sensor 23.

  The control circuit 40 is a microcomputer capable of controlling the entire information code reader 10, and includes a CPU, a system bus, an input / output interface, and the like, and has an information processing function. Various input / output devices (peripheral devices) are connected to the control circuit 40 via a built-in input / output interface. In this embodiment, the power switch 41, the operation switch 42, the LED 43, the buzzer 44, A liquid crystal display 46, a communication interface 48, and the like are connected. The communication interface 48 is a device that communicates with an external device by a known wired method or wireless method.

  The power supply system includes a power switch 41, a battery 49, and the like. When the power switch 41 managed by the control circuit 40 is turned on and off, the conduction of the drive voltage supplied from the battery 49 to each device and each circuit described above is established. Or shut off is controlled. The battery 49 is a secondary battery that can generate a predetermined DC voltage, and corresponds to, for example, a lithium ion battery.

(Information code)
Next, the basic configuration of the information code 100 used in the information code utilization system of FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. The example of FIG. 1 and the example of the right side of FIG. 5 are slightly different in the cell arrangement and the size of the specific pattern, but the basic idea is the same and has the same characteristics. The information code 100 shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 5 and the like is generated by the above-described forming apparatus 2, for example, and has a configuration in which cells 102 serving as units for displaying information are arranged inside a predetermined code area. Yes. In the information code 100 of FIGS. 1 and 5, the “code area” is a rectangular area that can include all of the plurality of dark cells arranged, and is the smallest square that includes all of the cells constituting the information code 100. It is a region or a rectangular region. Specifically, a minimum square area or rectangular area including all three position detection patterns (cutout symbols) 104 is a “code area”. In the example of FIGS. 1 and 5, the plurality of cells 102 are configured by either the first type cell 102 a or the second type cell 102 b having a rectangular shape (for example, the outer diameter is a square shape). These cells 102 are arranged in a matrix around the empty area 110 described later in the area.

  The first type cell 102a and the second type cell 102b are different from each other in at least one of color, density, and luminance when irradiated with light (for example, ultraviolet light) in a predetermined wavelength band. For example, the first type cell 102a may be configured by a light color cell such as a white cell, and the second type cell 102b may be configured by a dark color cell such as a black cell. The second type cell 102b may be configured with a predetermined brightness, and the second type cell 102b may have a higher brightness. In the information code 100, a light or dark margin area is formed around the code area so as to surround the code area. In the examples of FIGS. A margin area (for example, another color having a lightness higher than that of a white or dark cell) is arranged adjacent to the periphery of the code area.

  The information code 100 includes data in a specific pattern area in which a specific pattern having a predetermined shape is arranged inside a rectangular code area (for example, a square shape or a rectangular shape), and a plurality of types of cells 102. A data recording area for recording and an error correction code recording area for recording an error correction code by a plurality of types of cells 102 are provided. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 5, the specific pattern of the information code 100 is, for example, a known predetermined model number of a QR code (registered trademark) (in the example of FIG. 5, a predetermined model number of a QR code standardized by JIS or the like). ), The position detection pattern (cutout symbol) 104 as the specific pattern is arranged at each of the three corners of the code area in the examples of FIGS. ing. Further, a timing pattern 106 and an alignment pattern 108 as specific patterns are also provided at predetermined positions in the predetermined model number. As described above, in the information code 100, a predetermined pattern having a predetermined shape (position detection pattern 104, timing pattern 106, alignment pattern 108 (not shown in FIG. 5)) is arranged at a predetermined position. It has become. It should be noted that, within the code area, positions other than the empty area 110, which will be described later, are configured by such specific pattern areas, recording areas (areas consisting of either data recording areas or error correction code recording areas), and the like. Yes.

  The number of rows and columns of cells of the information code 100, the shape and position of a specific pattern, the position of format information, the codeword candidate position (address for specifying the arrangement order of codewords), etc. You may grasp. For example, a plurality of model numbers may be provided in the type of the information code 100. In this case, the number of rows and columns of cells, the shape and position of a specific pattern, the position of format information, and a code word are arranged for each model number. The candidate position (address) may be determined in advance. If the model number information for specifying the model number is arranged at a predetermined position (reserved area) in the code area, the reader device can determine the number of rows and columns of cells of the information code 100 based on the model number information. It becomes possible to grasp the shape and position of the specific pattern, the position of the format information, and the candidate position (address) of the code word. Note that the present invention is not limited to this method, and any other method may be used as long as the reader can grasp the method.

  Within the code area, the area other than the specific pattern area, data recording area, and error correction code recording area is an area where data is not recorded by the cell 102 and is not subject to error correction by the error correction code. A certain free area 110 is provided in a size larger than the size of the single cell 102. In the example of FIG. 1, FIG. 5, etc., the data recording area and the error correction code recording area are arranged annularly and rectangularly along the periphery of the code area, and the center of the code area (predetermined including the center of the code area). An empty area 110 is configured in (Area). The “area in which no data is recorded by the cell 102” means an area in which a code word such as a data code word and an error correction code word to be described later is not recorded, and an area in which format information is not recorded. To do. The “region not subject to error correction by the error correction code” means a region where error correction using the error correction code recorded in the error correction code recording region is not performed. Therefore, even if some information (additional information to be described later) is recorded in the empty area 110, error correction for the information is performed by the error correction code in the error correction code recording area existing around the empty area 110. Absent. This empty area 110 is an area in which data recording or design display can be performed by a method different from the method of recording data in the data recording area. In the examples of FIG. 1, FIG. 5, FIG. Is not recorded, and is a region where a predetermined image such as a photograph or picture is represented.

  In the following description, a configuration corresponding to the predetermined model number as shown in the right diagram of FIG. 5 is associated with another model number (Ver. Number) having a smaller size than the predetermined model number as illustrated in the left diagram of FIG. An example in which the position of each code word of the information code 100 in the right diagram of FIG. 5 and the position of each code word of the other code 120 in the left diagram of FIG. 5 are associated by the arrangement conversion table as shown in the lower diagram of FIG. Will be described as a representative example. In this example, the amount of data that can be stored in the other type code 120 in the left diagram of FIG. 5 can be expressed with the empty area 110 provided by the information code 100 as shown in the right diagram of FIG. Conversely, when the information code 100 shown in the right diagram of FIG. 5 is read, each code word of the information code 100 can be read as a code word of another type code 120 as shown in the left diagram of FIG. .

  In the right diagram of FIG. 5, each codeword area arranged around the empty area 110 is conceptually shown by a broken line frame or the like. An area (predetermined position 105) for recording format information is conceptually indicated by a predetermined type of hatching. In the right diagram of FIG. 5, in the area where the format information is recorded and the area where the code word is recorded, only the squares are shown, and the specific arrangement of light cells and dark cells is omitted. Further, in the example of the right diagram in FIG. 5, the interior of the empty area 110 (the central part of the code area) is also assigned to correspond to the cell arrangement, but the configuration of the empty area 110 is free, and FIG. It may be configured as described above, or may be other configurations.

  The format information (format information) is configured as shown in FIG. 6, for example, and is recorded at a predetermined position 105 (a predetermined type of hatching position) in the information code 100 with a specific format configuration. This format information includes correction level information for specifying an error correction level and mask number information for specifying a mask number. The correction level information is information for specifying an error correction level used in the information code 100, and corresponds to an error correction level used in the other type code 120 in the case of being converted into the other type code 120 and read, for example. The mask number is information for specifying which mask type is the mask applied to the codeword area of the information code 100 (area in which the data codeword and error correction codeword are recorded).

  As shown in FIG. 6, the format information is recorded in a state reflecting a predetermined type of mask pattern (specific mask), and the mask type of the format information is identified in the same manner as a known QR code (registered trademark). Thus, it is possible to detect a specific code type (type in which a free area 110 is provided) as shown in the right diagram of FIG. For example, when the model 1 is configured as a QR code of a known standard, data (cell array) expressed when the model 1 mask is applied to the format information as shown in FIG. 6 is recorded at a predetermined position. However, when configured as the model 2, data (cell array) expressed when the model 2 mask is applied to the format information as shown in FIG. 6 is recorded at a predetermined position. . On the other hand, in the information code 100 of this configuration shown in FIG. 5 (a special kind of code having a free area 110), a specific mask (in FIG. Data (cell arrangement) expressed when the frame QR is used is recorded at a predetermined position 105. Then, in any of the types 1 and 2 of the known standard and the type of the information code 100, a check digit corresponding to the correction level (correction level information) and mask number (mask number information) to be recorded is added. Format information is configured, on which various types of masks can be applied. Specifically, mask processing is performed by a known method using various types of mask patterns, and the bit pattern after the mask processing is recorded at a predetermined position 105. Therefore, when the format information is recorded at the predetermined position 105 after applying a specific mask (example for frame QR in FIG. 6) to the format information like the information code 100, the information recorded at the predetermined position 105 in this way is recorded. If the mask process is canceled and decoded based on the specific mask, the check digit is matched, so that the type of the information code 100 can be specified. On the contrary, even if the data at the predetermined position 105 of the information code 100 is removed based on the masks of the model 1 and model 2, the check digit does not match. be able to.

  In this information code 100, after detecting a specific pattern (position detection pattern 104, etc.) and specifying the code area, code direction, and each cell position in the same manner as the known QR code, the same as the known QR code. By decoding the predetermined position 105 where the format information is recorded by the method, it is possible to identify the type of the information code 100 (special type having the empty area 110) according to the type of the mask that has been successfully decoded. Then, the error correction level used in the information code 100 can be specified by the decoded format information, and applied to the code word area of the information code 100 (the area where the data code word and the error correction code word are recorded by the cell). It is possible to specify the mask type.

  The content recorded in the information code 100 has, for example, a configuration as shown in FIG. 3, header data (frame QR header) is set at the beginning of the data array, and input data (decryption target data) after the header data. ) Continues. In the example of FIG. 3, input data (data to be decoded) is compressed by, for example, a known method and converted into a data word (data code word). However, such compression may not be performed. The header data used in the information code 100 is also referred to as a “frame QR header” in the following description. Further, in this specification, such an area for recording data words (data code words) of header data and input data (data to be decoded) and an area for recording the above-described format information correspond to “data recording areas”. To do. Further, in the example of FIG. 3, as header data (frame QR header), another type code 120 (a code type used for decoding the information code 100, which will be described later), and the information code 100 according to the arrangement conversion table (FIG. 5). Information (identified as Ver. Number in FIG. 3) and identification information that can specify the format in the empty area are recorded. In the example of FIG. 3, as the header data, in addition to the type (Ver. Number) of other types of codes, it is specified that the format of the free area 110 is the image format shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 5, FIG. Information (first information) and information that can specify the position (image area position) of the empty area 110 (“image area position information” corresponding to the second information) are recorded. Among these, the information (first information) specifying that the format of the free area 110 is an image format corresponds to an example of “identification information” indicating the existence of the free area 110. Information (second information) that can specify the position of the empty area 110 (image area position) corresponds to an example of “position data” indicating the position of the empty area 110 in the code area.

  In the example of FIGS. 3 and 5, information that can specify the column position and row position of the empty area 110 is recorded as image area position information (position data). More specifically, a combination of the upper left row position and column position of the empty area 110 when the information code 100 configured in a rectangular shape as shown in FIG. 5 is divided into a plurality of rows and columns in a grid pattern, A combination of a row position and a column position at the lower right of the empty area 110 is recorded as image area position information (position data). Here, the combination of the upper left row position and column position of the empty area 110 and the lower right row position and column position of the empty area 110 are used as image area position information (position data). A combination of the row position and the column position at each of the four corners may be used as image area position information (position data). Further, the width of each row and each column when the information code 100 is divided in a lattice shape as shown in FIG. 5 corresponds to the width in the row direction and the width in the column direction of a single cell, respectively. 3 and the like show an example of data for specifying the position of the empty area 110, the position data may be data that can specify the position of the empty area 110. For example, when the empty area has a circular configuration, data on the center position of the empty area and data on the radius (for example, data indicating how many cells the radius corresponds to) may be used.

  In the example shown in FIG. 3 and the like, an error correction code word (ECC word) that becomes an error correction code follows the input data (data word that is data to be decoded). In the information code 100, an area for recording the error correction code is an error correction code recording area. Note that a method for generating an error correction code (error correction code word) based on a data word (in the example of FIG. 3, header data and input data (data to be decoded)) is a known two-dimensional code (such as a QR code). A method defined in the standard can be used. For example, as a method for generating an error correction codeword based on a data word (data codeword), an error correction codeword generation method (JISX0510: 2004, 8.5 error correction) defined in JISX0510: 2004 is used. be able to. Note that the method of generating the error correction codeword is not limited to this, and various known methods can be used.

  Further, in the information code 100, each data word (data code word) representing the data to be decoded (data code word) and an error correction code word are arranged in the code area based on predetermined arrangement position information. In this configuration, as shown in FIG. 5, the arrangement candidate positions of the respective code words are determined in advance within the code area of the information code 100, and a number (address) is assigned to each arrangement candidate position. The arrangement position information is information for specifying which arrangement candidate position each code word constituting the recording contents shown in FIG. 3 should be arranged. In the example of the right diagram in FIG. 5, the arrangement candidate positions Nos. 1 to 25 are schematically illustrated. In each arrangement candidate position, the first and last bit portions are numbered and clearly shown. In the right diagram of FIG. 5, the arrangement candidate positions after the 26th are omitted.

  Specifically, in the model number of the other type code 120 (known QR code) (the model number of the other type code 120 specified by the header data shown in FIG. 3), the code word in each order is assigned to which code word in the other type code 120. Whether or not to be arranged at a position is determined in advance by a known standard or the like, and when the other-type code 120 is decoded, the code words in each order are decoded based on the arrangement determined in this way. For example, in the example of the other type code 120 shown in the left diagram of FIG. 5, the 0th code word is arranged at the lower right, the first code word is arranged thereon, and the second code word is arranged thereon. The arrangement position of each code word is determined in advance. Therefore, when decoding this other type code 120, the 0th code word, the 1st code word, the 2nd code word, the 3rd code word, etc. based on the arrangement determined in this way. It will be deciphered in order.

  On the other hand, in the arrangement position information (arrangement conversion table) shown in FIG. 5, the numbers of the arrangement positions (arrangement positions of the code words in each order) determined in advance by the other type code 120 in this way are stored in advance in the information code 100. Each number is associated with a number of a determined candidate position (position candidate position of each code word). Specifically, “the arrangement position of the first code word in the other type code 120 corresponds to the first arrangement candidate position of the information code 100”, “the arrangement position of the second code word in the other type code 120 is information. Information such as “corresponding to the second arrangement candidate position of the code 100” and “the arrangement position of the third code word in the other type code 120 corresponds to the third arrangement candidate position of the information code 100” is, for example, table data Each code word is recorded, and the arrangement position of each numbered code word in the other type code 120 is associated with each arrangement candidate position of the information code 100. Thus, when the information code 100 is decoded, the code word (code word at each address) in each placement candidate position in the code area is associated with the placement position information (placement conversion table). The other-type code 120 may be rearranged at each arrangement position, and the other-type code 120 rearranged in this way may be decoded by a known method. For example, when the information code 100 is decoded using the arrangement conversion table shown in the lower diagram of FIG. 5, the code word at the first arrangement candidate position of the information code 100 is changed to the arrangement position of the first code word in the other type code 120. The code word at the second placement candidate position of the information code 100 is placed at the placement position of the second code word in the other code 120, and the code word at the Nth placement candidate position of the information code 100 is placed in the other kind. The code 120 is rearranged in such a manner as to be arranged at the arrangement position of the M-th code word associated with the N-th arrangement candidate position, and the other type code (re-arranged in this way) QR code) may be decoded by a known method. As for the above-described arrangement position information (arrangement conversion table), common data (common arrangement conversion table) is provided in each of the forming apparatus 2 that generates the information code 100 and the information code reading apparatus 10 that reads the information code 100. It is desirable that

(Information code generation process)
Next, an information code generation process and an information code generation method will be described with reference to FIG. In the following, a case where the other type code 120 is a QR code (registered trademark) and the information code 100 has a specific pattern similar to the QR code as shown in FIG. 5 will be described as an example. In this example, the information code 100 having the empty area 110 is also referred to as “frame QR”.

  The information code generation process of FIG. 8 is a process performed by the forming apparatus 2 and is started by a predetermined operation on the operation unit 4, for example. In this process, first, data to be encoded from outside (decoding target data), attribute data, and code type data (information code 100 is generated or a general two-dimensional code (for example, a general QR code) is generated. (Data specifying whether to generate) (S1). In this configuration, the control unit 3 and the operation unit 4 correspond to an example of a “data acquisition unit” and function to acquire data to be decoded (input data from the outside). Further, the present invention is not limited to such an example. For example, the control unit 3 and the communication unit 7 may be configured as a “data acquisition unit” and function to acquire data input from outside through communication as decryption target data. Good.

  In the process of FIG. 8, after data is acquired in S1, a method for compressing the acquired data is determined by a known method (S2), and the data (decryption target data) obtained by compressing the input data is defined by a plurality of data words (data to be decoded). (Data code word) (S3). Then, after S3, it is determined whether or not the code type data acquired in S1 is the type (frame QR) of the information code 100 having the free space 110. If the code type data acquired in S1 is the type of the information code 100 having the free area 110 (frame QR), the process proceeds to Yes in S4, and the type of the information code 100 having the free area 110 (frame QR). ) Is generated and set at the head of the data array including a plurality of data words as shown in FIG. 3 (S5). In the header data of FIG. 3, as described above, information (version number information etc.) that can specify the type (model number) of the other type code 120 shown in the right diagram of FIG. Information specifying the presence (first information) and information that can specify the position of the empty area 110 (image area position) (“image area position information” corresponding to the second information) are recorded. . On the other hand, when the code type data acquired in S1 is not the type (frame QR) of the information code 100 having the free area 110 (data for selecting a general two-dimensional code (for example, model 1 or model 2 is selected). If (data), the process proceeds to No in S4.

  In the process of FIG. 8, when the process proceeds to No in S4, an error correction code is generated by a known method based on the configuration of the data word (data codeword) generated in S3, and a plurality of error correction codes are expressed. An error correction word (error correction code word) is generated (S6). On the other hand, when proceeding from S4 to S5, an error correction code is generated by a known method based on the configuration of the final data word (a plurality of data code words representing header data and input data) generated in S3 and S5. Then, a plurality of error correction words (error correction code words) representing the error correction code are generated (S6).

  In the process of FIG. 8, after S6, it is determined whether or not the code type data acquired in S1 is the type (frame QR) of the information code 100 having the free area 110 (S7), and acquired in S1. If the generated code type data is not the type (frame QR) of the information code 100 having the free space 110, the process proceeds to No in S7 to generate a two-dimensional code (for example, QR code) by a known method. Become. When the process proceeds to No in S7, the model number of the two-dimensional code having a size capable of storing the data word (data code word) generated in S3 and the error correction word (error correction code word) generated in S6 (in this example, In a plurality of standardized known QR code model numbers, a model number of a size that can store the data word generated in S3 and the error correction word generated in S6) is determined, and the arrangement predetermined by the model number is determined. According to the pattern, the data word generated in S3 and the error correction word generated in S6 are arranged (S9).

  On the other hand, if the code type data acquired in S1 is the type (frame QR) of the information code 100 having the free area 110, the process proceeds to Yes in S7, and the data word (data) generated in S3 and S5 (Code word), the error correction word (error correction code word) generated in S6, and the empty area, the model number of the information code 100 that can be stored is determined (S10). Note that the size of the empty area may be a predetermined fixed size, or may be designated by an input or the like by the user before S10. Further, the size of the empty area may be specified by the number of rows and the number of columns, or may be specified by information such as how many words it corresponds to, or how many cells it corresponds. In the example of FIGS. 5 and 8, for example, in a plurality of model numbers (sizes) determined in advance by the type of the information code 100, the data word (data code word) generated in S3 and S5 and the error correction generated in S6 A model number of a size that can store a word (error correction code word) and an empty area is determined. When a plurality of model numbers can be used in the type of the information code 100, the number of rows and the number of columns, the shape and layout of a specific pattern, the layout of format data, and the layout candidate position of each code word are provided for each model number. It should be determined. Also, in any model number, the arrangement candidate positions of the respective code words are determined in order from the outer circumference side as shown in the right diagram of FIG. 5 (for example, the arrangement candidate positions are set in a spiral shape from the outer circumference side to the inside). The placement candidate position of each code word is determined so that the placement candidate position with a smaller number is located outside, and a portion where the code word is not placed (that is, a portion that is not used) among the prepared placement candidate positions. If it uses, it becomes easy to ensure a large empty area | region by the center part. Further, when there are a plurality of model numbers having a size capable of storing the data word (data code word) generated in S3 and S5, the error correction word (error correction code word) generated in S6, and the empty area, The smallest model number (size) may be determined from among them, or the user may be able to specify any model number (size) from among them. When the information code 100 is generated, a predetermined size (number of rows and columns), a specific pattern arrangement, and each arrangement position position of the codeword are used in the model number thus determined. The arrangement position of each code word is determined according to the above-described arrangement conversion table. In the following, an example in which the model number as shown in the right diagram of FIG. 5 is determined in S10 will be specifically described.

  In the process of FIG. 8, after S10, the data word (data code word) generated in S3 and S5 and the error correction word (error correction code word) generated in S6 are replaced with the above-described arrangement position information (arrangement conversion table). ) Will be arranged based on. In the forming apparatus 2, the above-described arrangement position information (arrangement conversion table) is stored in the storage unit 5. In this arrangement conversion table, as described above, each arrangement position (in each order) determined by the other type code 120 is stored. The code word arrangement position) is associated with a predetermined candidate position (arrangement candidate position of each code word) in the information code 100, respectively. In the process of S11, the code words to be recorded (the data words (data code words) generated in S3 and S5 and the error correction words (error correction code words) generated in S6) are shown in the left of FIGS. Is represented by another code 120 (a two-dimensional code having a size smaller than that of the information code 100 and a size capable of storing the data word generated in S3 and S5 and the error correction word generated in S6). After specifying the arrangement position of each code word (code word in each order), the code word in each order is associated with the arrangement position of the code word in each order by arrangement position information (arrangement conversion table). It arrange | positions in each arrangement | positioning candidate position in the information code 100. FIG. For example, in the arrangement position information (arrangement conversion table) in FIG. 5, the arrangement position of the first code word in the other type code 120 is associated with the first arrangement candidate position of the information code 100. The first code word of the code words to be recorded (the data word generated in S3 and S5 and the error correction word generated in S6) is arranged at the first arrangement candidate position in the information code 100. In addition, since the second code word arrangement position in the other-type code 120 and the second arrangement candidate position of the information code 100 are associated with each other, the second code word in the code words to be recorded Is placed at the second candidate position in the information code 100. In this way, the arrangement position (an arrangement position of the Nth code word) in the other type code 120 in which the Nth code word is arranged in the codeword to be recorded and the Mth arrangement candidate position of the information code 100 are as follows. If they are associated, the Nth codeword among the codewords to be recorded is arranged at the Mth arrangement candidate position in the information code 100.

  That is, only the data word generated in S3 and S5 and the error correction word generated in S6 can be expressed by another type code 120 (configured as a known QR code) smaller than the information code 100. When the data word generated in S3, S5, the error correction word generated in S6, and the empty area 110 are stored, it must be expressed by the information code 100 having a larger size. Therefore, in this configuration, the data word generated in S3 and S5, the error correction word generated in S6, and the empty area 110 are represented by the information code 100 having a size larger than the other type code 120, and in S3 and S5. When the generated data word and the error correction word generated at S6 are expressed by another type code 120 (known QR code) and stored in the information code 100 having a size larger than this The correspondence relationship between each codeword arrangement can be specified by a predetermined arrangement conversion table.

  In this configuration, the “arrangement conversion table” as shown in FIG. 5 corresponds to an example of “arrangement position information for specifying each arrangement position when a plurality of data words expressing the data to be decoded are arranged in the code area”. The arrangement conversion table (arrangement position information) includes data words in each order when the data to be decoded is expressed by a plurality of data words, and each arrangement position in the code area of the data words in each order. Are configured as information determined in association with each other. The storage unit 5 corresponds to an example of an “arrangement position information recording unit” and functions to record data (arrangement position information) of such an arrangement conversion table.

  In the process of FIG. 8, after S9 or S11, a mask pattern to be applied to the code word whose placement location is determined in S9 or S11 is determined by a known predetermined method (for example, a known method used in QR code). Then, the mask pattern is masked by a known mask processing method so that the determined mask pattern is reflected in the code word whose arrangement location is determined in S9 or S11 (S12). Then, the check digit is calculated based on the mask pattern information (mask number) and error correction level information set in S12, and the format information including the error correction level, mask number, and check digit is generated as shown in FIG. (S13). Note that data such as a mask number and an error correction level to be recorded as format information may be input in S1.

  If the code type data acquired in S1 is the type (frame QR) of the information code 100 having the free area 110, the process proceeds to Yes in S14, and the format information generated in S13 includes the above-described format information. Mask processing is performed to reflect the specific mask (frame QR mask) (see FIG. 6). On the other hand, if the code type data acquired in S1 is not the type (frame QR) of the information code 100 having the vacant area 110, the process proceeds to No in S14 and has a mask pattern different from the mask pattern set in S16. Set the mask (model 1 mask or model 2 mask). After masking the format information in S15 or S16, the format information after the mask processing is arranged at a predetermined position 105 in the code area (S17).

  After the specific pattern area, the data recording area, and the error correction area are thus configured, the constituent elements of the empty area 110 are arranged (S18). In the example of FIG. 3, since the position of the empty area 110 is specified by the row position and the column position, in S18, the design and data to be represented by the empty area 110 at the specified position (data recording area). Data represented by a method different from the recording method) is arranged. Note that the image represented in the empty area 110 may be an image represented by image data input from the outside, or may be an image represented by image data stored in the forming apparatus 2 in advance. In any case, an instruction as to which image data should be incorporated into the free area 110 may be received in S1, and in this case, the image specified by the instruction received in S1 is represented in the free area 110. The empty area 110 may be configured.

  After the information code 100 or other two-dimensional code is generated in this way, the code is printed by the printing unit 8 (S19). When a two-dimensional code of a type other than the information code 100 is generated in the processes from S1 to S18, the two-dimensional code is printed by the printing unit 8 using a general printing method. On the other hand, when the information code 100 is generated by the processing from S1 to S18, the vacant area 110 of the information code 100 is used by the printing unit 8 by using, for example, normal ink that is visible in a visible light environment. Print using a general printing method. Further, the outer area of the empty area 110 in the code area of the information code 100 is printed using a special light emitting ink (for example, an ultraviolet light emitting ink) that emits light in a predetermined wavelength band (for example, an ultraviolet wavelength band). The area outside the empty area 110 in the code area of the information code 100 is divided into a dark color area and a light color area, and one of the light color area and the dark color area is printed with the special light emitting ink. It will be.

  Thus, when the information code medium P is formed by the forming apparatus 2 used in the present system 1, the entire area outside the empty area 110 in the code area is brightly colored as shown in FIGS. It is composed of a region and a dark color region. Further, it is difficult to visually recognize the configuration of the entire area outside the vacant area 110 because it is difficult to distinguish the light color area from the dark color area in the first state (a normal state in which visible light that is light in the first wavelength band is irradiated). A visible state in which the light-colored region and the dark-colored region can be distinguished in the second state (for example, an ultraviolet irradiation state irradiated with ultraviolet light that is light in the second wavelength band). Thus, the information code 100 is formed on the formation target medium 150.

  Specifically, the configuration of the data recording area arranged around the empty area 110 is set to a predetermined first state in which light in the first wavelength band (specifically, light in the visible wavelength band) is irradiated. In a configuration in which it is difficult to visually identify a plurality of types of cells in a predetermined visual difficulty state, and light in a second wavelength band different from the first wavelength band (for example, light in the ultraviolet wavelength band) is irradiated. In the predetermined second state, a plurality of types of cells can be specified. In addition, the specific pattern area arranged around the empty area 110 is also configured to be in a predetermined invisible state in which it is difficult to visually recognize the shape of the specific pattern area in the first state (normal state where visible light is irradiated). In addition, in the second state (for example, an ultraviolet irradiation state in which ultraviolet light is irradiated), the information code 100 is recorded on the formation target medium 150 with a configuration in which the shape of the specific pattern region is visible. Is forming. More specifically, each of the cells (for example, the second type cell 102b) of any one of the data recording area and the specific pattern area arranged around the empty area 110 is irradiated with visible light. Each cell of another type different from one type is formed by a light emitting ink (for example, ultraviolet light emitting ink) that is in a non-light emitting state in one state and is in a light emitting state in a second state irradiated with light of a predetermined wavelength band For example, the first type cell 102a) has a configuration in which no luminescent ink is applied (specifically, for example, a configuration in which ink having a predetermined color that is not transparent in a visible light environment is applied). Such a luminescent ink may be applied only to either the first type cell 102a or the second type cell 102b. In this way, both the first-type cell 102a area and the second-type cell 102b area show the color of the ground on the surface of the forming object 105 in the visible light environment. It becomes difficult to recognize. On the other hand, in an environment where ultraviolet light is irradiated, only the type of cells to which the ultraviolet light-emitting ink is applied emits light. Therefore, in the captured image obtained by imaging such a state, both types of cells can be distinguished and recognized. It becomes possible.

  On the other hand, in the formation process shown in FIG. 8, the information code 100 is formed on the formation target medium 150 so that at least one of the data and the design represented in the empty area 110 is at least partially visible in the first state. doing. For example, in the examples of FIGS. 1 and 10, the entire design (for example, a design image such as a landscape photograph) represented in the empty area 110 is visible in a normal environment (in an environment where visible light is irradiated). Thus, the entire empty area 110 is formed with normal ink (each ink exhibiting each color under a visible light environment).

  As described above, when the information code medium P including the information code 100 is formed, the data recording area includes predetermined data related to the data or design represented in the empty area 110 in the data recording area. The information code 100 may be formed on the formation target 150 (formation target medium) with the recorded configuration. For example, in the examples of FIGS. 1 and 10, a landscape photograph is represented as a design image in the empty area 110. In this case, the creation date of such a design image (for example, the photography of the photograph) is displayed in the data recording area. Day) and the location and name of the object represented by such a design image. As a result, the design image of the empty area 110 and the related data of the data recording area are linked by the same information code 100.

  In this configuration, the control unit 3 of the forming apparatus 2 corresponds to an example of a “data recording area generation unit”. When the empty area 110 is provided inside the code area of the information code 100, a specific position is specified in the code area. The format information is recorded in the format configuration, and each data word representing the data to be decoded (input data) acquired by the data acquisition unit is arranged based on the arrangement position information recorded in the arrangement position information recording unit. Thus, the data recording area is generated. In addition, in the “data recording area generation unit” configured by the control unit 3, when the empty area 110 is provided inside the code area, the cell array at the predetermined position 105 reflects a predetermined type of mask pattern (specific mask). Is configured.

(Information code reading process)
Next, processing when the information code 100 shown in the right diagram of FIG. 1 and FIG. 5 is read by the information code reader 10 of FIG. 2 will be described. The reading process in FIG. 9 is executed, for example, when a predetermined operation (for example, operation of the operation switch 42) is performed by the user, and when the process is started, the information code is imaged and the format information is decoded. (S40). In this process, first, a two-dimensional code in the imaging area of the light receiving sensor 23 is imaged to obtain a captured image of the two-dimensional code. At the time of imaging, imaging is performed by the light receiving sensor 23 while irradiating light (for example, ultraviolet light) in a predetermined wavelength band (for example, wavelength band in the ultraviolet region) from the illumination light source 21 described above to the imaging area of the light receiving sensor 23. Do. For example, when the above-described information code medium P is an imaging target, the information code 100 of the information code medium P is irradiated with light (for example, ultraviolet light) in a predetermined wavelength band (for example, a wavelength band in the ultraviolet region). The code 100 is imaged by the light receiving sensor 23. By performing imaging in this way, the second type cell 102b formed of the light emitting ink emits light, and a captured image of the information code 100 in which the first type cell 102a does not emit light is obtained.

  Then, after the imaging, the shape of the two-dimensional code is detected. Specifically, a known method is used to recognize the position detection pattern 104 and detect the outer shape of the two-dimensional code. For example, the position detection pattern 104 is detected by a known method for detecting a 1: 1: 3: 1: 1 waveform, which is performed with a QR code (registered trademark), and the outer shape of the imaged two-dimensional code is displayed as a QR code. Detection is performed by a known method performed by (registered trademark). When such an outer shape detection process is performed, when the information code 100 is captured, the outer shape of the information code 100 is detected. Note that the outer shape detection method may be another method as long as it can detect the shape of a specific pattern or the outer shape of a two-dimensional code.

  In this way, when the outer shape of the information code is detected and the code area of the information code can be extracted, the format information is decoded. For example, in the case of the information code 100, the information (format information) at the predetermined position 105 in the information code 100 is decoded, and the type and mask correction level of the imaged information code are acquired (S40). Specifically, for example, as described above, the information recorded at the predetermined position 105 is attempted to be decrypted by canceling the mask processing based on the above-described specific mask (frame QR mask). When the check digit matches when the mask processing is canceled by the above-described method for canceling the mask of the specific mask (that is, calculated based on the correction level data and the mask number data when the predetermined position 105 is decoded) When the check digit matches the check digit recorded at the predetermined position 105), it is possible to specify the type of the information code 100 (the type having the free area 110), and an error included in the format information The correction level and mask number can also be acquired. When the mask process can be canceled based on the specific mask as described above (that is, when it is recognized that the information code 100 is the type (frame QR)), the process proceeds to Yes in S41. On the other hand, when the mask processing can be canceled by a mask other than the specific mask (frame QR mask) such as the model 1 mask and the model 2 mask shown in FIG. 6, the process proceeds to No in S41. When the mask process can be canceled by another mask, the two-dimensional code captured in S40 is a known QR code (registered trademark). Therefore, when the process proceeds to No in S41, the QR code is decoded by a known method. Then, the decoding result is output. In FIG. 9, the process in the case of No in S41 is omitted.

  When the process proceeds to Yes in S41, that is, when the information code 100 is a reading target, the data recorded in the data recording area is decoded (S42). Specifically, based on the mask number included in the format information acquired in S40, the mask of the entire code (specifically, the area of the code word) is released. Then, based on the header data (frame QR header) provided at the beginning of the data word, the original code size (the model number and format of the other type code 120) is specified, and the diagram is converted according to the same layout conversion table as in FIG. 5 Return from the information code 100 as shown in the right figure to the original code (another code 120) as shown in the left figure. Specifically, the code word (data code word and error correction code word) of each arrangement candidate position of the information code 100 is arranged in the other type code 120 associated with each arrangement candidate position in the arrangement conversion table. Reposition to the position. By performing the arrangement conversion in this way, another type code 120 in which the data code word and the error correction code word arranged in the information code 100 are recorded is obtained. Since the other type code 120 is a known QR code, the data is decoded by a method similar to the known QR code (that is, error correction calculation is performed by a known method based on the error correction code word). Decode the data code word).

  In this configuration, the control circuit 40 corresponds to an example of a “determination unit”, and when the information code 100 is captured by the imaging unit, it is determined whether or not the predetermined position 105 in the code area has a specific format configuration. To function. Specifically, it functions to determine whether or not a predetermined type of mask pattern (specific mask) is reflected at the predetermined position 105.

  The control circuit 40 corresponds to an example of a “data recording area reading unit” and a “decoding unit”. When the information code 100 is captured by the imaging unit, the data recording area in the code image of the captured information code 100 And functions to read data recorded in the data recording area based on the contents of the error correction code recording area. Specifically, when the determination unit determines that the predetermined position 105 has a specific format configuration (more specifically, when a predetermined type of mask pattern is reflected at the predetermined position 105), the correspondence information recording unit The position of each data word in the code area is specified based on the correspondence information (arrangement conversion table) recorded in (1), and the decoding target data is decrypted.

  The arrangement conversion table corresponds to an example of “correspondence information”, and a data word in each order represented by each arrangement position in the code area is determined in advance in another type code 120 different from the information code 100. It is configured as information for determining each corresponding position in the other type code 120 when expressed in (for example, a method defined in a known standard or the like). Then, when the determination unit determines that the predetermined position 105 has a specific format configuration, the control circuit 40 corresponding to the decoding unit converts the data word in each order represented by each arrangement position of the code area to the correspondence information The other-type code 120 functions in such a manner as to be replaced with each corresponding position in the other-type code 120 defined in (1).

  In the process of FIG. 9, after the data in the data recording area is decoded in S42, the format information included in the header data (frame QR header) is read. If the format information is format information indicating "image format", the process proceeds to Yes in S44. For other formats, the process proceeds to No in S44. In FIG. 9, the process in the case where the process proceeds to No in S44 is omitted.

  When the process proceeds to Yes in S44 (that is, when the format information included in the header data (frame QR header) is format information indicating “image format”), the image area position information (position data) included in the header data is read. Then, the position of the empty area 110 in the information code 100 is specified (S45). In this configuration, it is assumed that the rectangular empty area 110 is formed in the rectangular code area. In S45, the code image of the information code 100 imaged in S40 is analyzed, and the code image has a free space. The positions of the four corners of the area 110 are specified, and the boundary positions of the empty area 110 (rectangular boundaries having the corner positions as the corner positions) are recognized.

  In this way, after the boundary position of the empty area 110 can be specified in the code image of the information code 100, predetermined processing is performed on the image of the empty area 110 (image area). The process of S46 is assumed in various ways. For example, the free area 110 (image area) specified in S45 is extracted so as to be cut out as a predetermined image format (for example, a bitmap image format) and stored or transmitted to an external device. Or the like. Alternatively, a predetermined analysis process or the like may be performed on the image in the empty area 110. In addition, when extracting the image of the empty area 110, the image format to be extracted is not limited to the bitmap format, and various known formats can be adopted, and may be a GIF format, a JPEG format, or the like. Alternatively, other image file formats may be used.

(Example of effects of this configuration)
According to this configuration, it is possible to provide the code area with the empty area 110 that enables data recording or design display in a method different from the method for recording data in the data recording area. The degree of freedom can be increased. Moreover, since the specific configuration of the data recording area arranged around the empty area 110 is difficult to visually recognize in a normal environment where visible light is irradiated, the specific configuration of the data recording area is conspicuous in the normal environment. This is particularly advantageous in applications where it is not desired. On the other hand, in the second state in which light of a predetermined wavelength band is irradiated, a plurality of types of cells constituting the data recording area can be specified. Therefore, if reading is performed on condition that light of a predetermined wavelength band is irradiated, it is possible to read data by specifying a plurality of types of cells even in a data recording region that is difficult to visually recognize in a normal environment. .

  In this configuration, at least one of the data and the design represented in the empty area 110 is at least partially visible in the first state. In this configuration, the data recording area arranged around the empty area 110 is less noticeable in a normal environment where visible light is irradiated, while the design represented by the empty area 110 can be visually recognized. Therefore, it is possible to make the design represented in the free space 110 more prominently displayed under a normal environment.

  Further, in the present configuration, the configuration of the specific pattern region arranged around the empty region 110 is a configuration that is in a predetermined invisible state in which it is difficult to visually recognize the shape of the specific pattern region in the first state, and It can be set as the structure which will be in the predetermined | prescribed visualization state which can visually recognize the shape of the said specific pattern area | region in a 2nd state. In this configuration, it is possible to make it difficult to visually recognize not only the data recording area but also the specific pattern area under a normal environment where visible light is irradiated. Particularly advantageous. On the other hand, in the second state where light of a predetermined wavelength band is irradiated, the specific pattern region can be specified. Therefore, if reading is performed under the condition that light of a predetermined wavelength band is irradiated, the shape can be recognized more accurately even in a specific pattern region that is difficult to visually recognize in a normal environment. It becomes easy to be done.

  Further, in this configuration, the entire area outside the empty area 110 in the code area is composed of a light color area and a dark color area, and the entire area is distinguished from the light color area and the dark color area in the first state. This is a configuration in which it becomes a difficult to visually recognize state, and a visually recognizable state in which the bright color region and the dark color region can be distinguished in the second state. As described above, it is difficult to distinguish between the light color area and the dark color area in the first state after the entire area outside the empty area 110 in the code area is represented by the light color area and the dark color area. If it is configured to be in a visually difficult state, the entire area outside the empty area 110 in the code area can be made inconspicuous in a normal environment. Thereby, the display of the empty area 110 is less affected by the light and dark structure on the outside.

  Further, in this configuration, each one type of cell in the data recording area arranged around the empty area 110 is in a non-light emitting state in the first state irradiated with visible light, and light in a predetermined wavelength band. Each of the other types of cells different from the one type is configured not to be applied with the luminescent ink. According to this configuration, it is possible to make the state of each cell of one type different from the state of each cell of other cells more clearly in the second state by a simple configuration such as applying luminescent ink.

  Further, in this configuration, predetermined related information related to data or design represented in the empty area 110 is recorded in the data recording area. This configuration is particularly advantageous in applications where it is desired not only to represent data or design in the free space 110 but also to read and use information related to data or design represented in the free space 110.

  In this configuration, position data indicating the position of the empty area 110 in the code area is recorded in the data recording area. According to this configuration, at the time of reading, the position of the empty area 110 in the code image can be more accurately specified based on the position data recorded in the data recording area.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, a second embodiment will be described.
The information code utilization system of the second embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment with respect to the hardware configuration, and the configuration shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 described above is used. Therefore, detailed description of the hardware configuration similar to that of the first embodiment is omitted, and FIGS. 1 and 2 are used as appropriate. In this configuration, an information code 100 (an information code formed by arranging cells serving as units for displaying information inside a predetermined code area) as shown in FIG. It is designed to generate. Note that the method of generating the information code 100 by the forming apparatus 2 is the same as in the first embodiment. In addition, the information code 100 generated by the forming apparatus 2 is different from the information code 100 of the first embodiment only in the contents of the empty area 110, and has the characteristics of the information code 100 of the first embodiment except for the contents of the empty area 110. Includes everything. Also in this example, the “code area” is a rectangular area that can include all of the plurality of dark cells arranged, and specifically, a minimum square area that includes all three position detection patterns (cutout symbols) 104 or It is a rectangular area.

  Also, in the example of FIG. 12A, the plurality of cells 102 are configured by either rectangular (for example, square outer diameter) light (white) cells or dark (black) cells. These cells 102 are arranged in a matrix around the empty area 110 described later in the area. The light color cell and the dark color cell are not limited to the white cell and the black cell, respectively. When the dark color cell is configured with a predetermined lightness, the light color cell only needs to have a higher lightness. In the information code 100, a light or dark margin area is formed around the code area so as to surround the code area. In the example of FIG. A margin area of white or another color having a lightness higher than that of the dark cell) is arranged adjacent to the periphery of the code area.

  Also in this example, the configuration of the data recording area arranged around the empty area 110 is determined in a predetermined difficult-to-view state in which it is difficult to visually identify a plurality of types of cells in the predetermined first state irradiated with visible light. And in a predetermined second state where light having a predetermined wavelength band different from that of visible light is irradiated, a plurality of types of cells can be specified. And at least any of the data or the design represented in the empty area 110 is configured to be at least partially visible in the first state.

  Then, when the information code 100 generated in this way is stamped on the free space 110 in FIG. 12A, an image of the stamp is attached as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12B. The obtained information code 100 is obtained.

  Further, the information code 100 as shown in FIG. 12A or the information code 100 with the stamp image D as shown in FIG. 12B is read by the reading device 10 as shown in FIGS. Can be done. The decoding process of the information code 100 by the reader 10 may be performed in the same flow as in the first embodiment, or may be performed in the flow as shown in FIG. In the following, the decoding process illustrated in FIG. 13 will be described as a representative example.

  Here, the information code 100 used in this configuration will be described. As shown in FIG. 12A, the information code 100 used in this configuration is also a specific pattern area in which a specific pattern having a predetermined shape is arranged inside the code area (position detection similar to that in the first embodiment). Pattern 104, timing pattern (timing cell) 106, area where alignment pattern 108 is arranged), data recording area where data is recorded by a plurality of types of cells 102, and error correction code which is recorded by a plurality of types of cells 102 A correction code recording area is provided. The specific pattern area is an area in which bright cells and dark cells are arranged and represents a fixed pattern larger than a single cell size. For example, in the information code of the same model number, the same specific pattern area is the same. It is arranged at the position. An image area showing an image different from the cell 102 is configured to be expressed in the code area as an area wider than the size of the single cell 102. Also, in the example of FIG. 12, the free area 110 is an area in which at least one of data recording and design display can be performed by a method different from the method of recording data in the data recording area. The size is larger than the size of 102.

  Furthermore, in this configuration, when the forming apparatus 2 shown in FIG. 1 generates the information code 100 shown in FIG. 12A, the usage data used when processing the image of the empty area 110 (image area) is recorded as data. It is recorded in an area (an area in which data to be decrypted by a plurality of cells 102 is recorded). Comparison data for comparison with analysis data obtained by analyzing an image is recorded in a data recording area (area for recording data to be decoded).

  Here, the comparison data recorded in the data recording area will be described. In this configuration, during the reading process described later, an imprinting method is used by a collation method similar to a known imprint collation method or fingerprint collation method (for example, feature point extraction method (maneuver method), pattern matching method, frequency analysis method, etc.). In the pre-registration, registered seal data used for this seal verification is generated as comparison data. In the following, the case where the feature point extraction method is used as the seal impression matching method will be described as a representative example.

  In pre-registration, for example, the registration subject is requested to be stamped, and a predetermined color stamp is applied to the surface of the material to be stamped such as paper material, resin material, metal material, and the image of the stamp (the seal of the seal to be registered). A stamp figure) is imaged by the reader 10 or another camera. FIG. 14 is an example of a stamped image obtained by such imaging. For example, when the feature point extraction method (maneuver method) is used, the shape of the feature point is defined in advance, and the defined feature point is extracted from the stamped image obtained by the above-described operation. In this configuration, “branch points” and “end points” are defined as the shape of the feature points, and for example, the feature points are as shown in FIG. Note that FIG. 15 conceptually illustrates branch points (positions where lines are branched) and end points (positions that are ends of lines) scattered in a seal image obtained by imaging a seal. In FIG. 15, the stamped area in the image is indicated by a one-dot chain line Af, the position of the branch point is indicated by a point, and the position of the end point is indicated by a + mark.

  Then, scattered feature points (branch points, end points) as shown in FIG. 15 are detected, and an X coordinate value and a Y coordinate value are calculated for each feature point. The coordinate value calculation method may be any method that can grasp the relative positional relationship between the feature points. For example, as shown in FIG. The X coordinate value and Y coordinate value of each feature point are calculated with the position of the close feature point P0 as the reference position (origin), and the horizontal and vertical directions of the pixel as the X direction and Y direction, respectively.

  Then, registered seal data is generated based on the type, X coordinate value, and Y coordinate value of each feature point detected or calculated in this way. Specifically, based on the type, X coordinate value, and Y coordinate value of each feature point, as shown in FIG. 16, for each feature point, the value indicating the type, the value corresponding to the X direction position, and the Y direction position These values are generated in association with each other and are used as registered seal data (comparison data). In the example of FIG. 16, data (value indicating the type, value corresponding to the X direction position, value corresponding to the Y direction position) of a predetermined number (for example, 15) of each feature point close to the reference position (origin). ) And these are used as registered seal data (comparison data). When the forming apparatus 2 generates the information code 100 as shown in FIG. 12A, such registered seal data (comparison data) is recorded in the data recording area. By preparing in advance as described above, the registered stamp data (comparison data) recorded in the data recording area is compared with the empty area 110 (image area) of the information code 100 as shown in FIG. The code structure is such that the authentication succeeds when the corresponding seal is attached and the authentication fails when the seal corresponding to the registered seal data (comparison data) is not attached.

  In this configuration, the information code is read and authenticated in the flow as shown in FIG. 13, for example. This process is executed when a predetermined start operation is performed in the reading device 10. First, an information code is imaged (S 80), and the code image of the information code is analyzed to analyze the data recording area. Data is read (S81). Then, an image area (empty area 110) is specified from the code image of the information code, and an image in the image area (empty area 110) is cut out (S82). Note that the method of decoding the data recording area with the information code 100 and the method of extracting the image area (empty area 110) can be performed by the same method as in the first embodiment, for example.

  Then, the image of the image area (empty area 110) cut out in this way is analyzed, and feature points are extracted (S83). Note that the feature point extraction method in S83 is the same as in the case of pre-registration. For example, when a stamp image as shown in FIG. The end point (position to be the end of the line) and the branch point (position where the line branches) are extracted. After the feature points are extracted in S83, the extracted feature point data is compared with the feature point data (comparison data) read from the data recording area in S81. It is determined whether or not it is done (S84). As a method for comparing the registered feature points with the read feature points to determine a match, any method known in the fields such as seal authentication and fingerprint authentication may be used.

  Then, by the comparison process (determination process) in S84, it is determined that the feature point data extracted in S83 and the feature point data (comparison data) read from the data recording area in S81 match. In this case, the process proceeds to Yes in S85, and it is determined that the authentication is successful (S86). In this case, notification of successful authentication (for example, message display of successful authentication or output of successful authentication voice information) may be performed. On the other hand, by the comparison process (determination process) in S84, it is determined that the feature point data extracted in S83 and the feature point data (comparison data) read from the data recording area in S81 do not match. In this case, the process proceeds to No in S85 and is determined to be an error (S87). In this case, notification of an error (for example, display of an error message or output of error voice information) may be performed.

  In this configuration as well, the light receiving sensor 23 corresponds to the imaging unit. The control circuit 40 corresponds to an example of a data recording area decoding unit, and functions to read data recorded in the data recording area when the information code 100 is imaged by the light receiving sensor 23 (imaging unit). .

  The control circuit 40 corresponds to an example of an image processing unit, and in the code image of the information code 100 captured by the light receiving sensor 23 (imaging unit), the data recorded by the data recording region reading unit is used for the image of the empty region 110. It functions to perform predetermined image processing by a method different from the decoding processing. Specifically, the comparison data (use data) read by the data recording area reading unit is used to determine whether or not the image in the empty area 110 corresponds to a predetermined regular image. A predetermined feature point extraction process (S83) is performed on the image of the empty area 110, the feature points in the empty area 110 extracted by this feature point extraction process, and the reference feature point data recorded in the data recording area By comparing with (comparison data) and determining whether or not they match, the image of the empty area 110 becomes a regular image (a stamped image from which the reference feature point data recorded in the data recording area is generated). It is judged whether it is applicable.

(Example of effects of this configuration)
In this configuration, comparison data for comparison with analysis data obtained by analyzing at least a part of an image in the empty area 110 or an image in the empty area is recorded as usage data in the data recording area. According to this configuration, since the image to be used and the comparison data for performing the comparison can be acquired at the same time by one imaging, the image (empty area image) and the data (comparison data) to be associated with each other can be obtained. Accurate acquisition is possible, and working time and processing time can be shortened easily.

  In addition, since the area where the comparison data is recorded can be made difficult to view in a normal environment, unauthorized use of the data recording area can be made difficult. Furthermore, if it is difficult to visually recognize in a normal environment, it is possible not to be aware of the fact that there is a data recording area around the empty area, and regarding unauthorized use such as falsification of information code and unauthorized acquisition of data, It becomes difficult to give the chance.

  In addition, since authentication can be performed using the comparison data recorded in the data recording area, access to the server is unnecessary, and in an environment where communication with the server cannot be performed or communication with the server is difficult. Even if there is, authentication can be performed without any problem.

  In this configuration, the empty area 110 is configured as an addable area that can be described later after the information code 100 is formed. In this configuration, additional information different from the information recorded in the data recording area can be used afterwards, and the convenience in using the characteristic information code having a free area is further increased.

In this configuration, a range specifying image indicating the range of the addable region is displayed in the free space 110. Specifically, an identification display (mark 121a) indicating the range of the addable area is provided as a range specifying image inside the empty area 110, and additional display can be performed later using this mark 121a as a mark. It has become. Specifically, a portion in the mark 121a is configured with one or a plurality of predetermined colors (for example, white), and the mark 121a is indicated as an identification display by a color (for example, black) different from the predetermined color. Yes. Since it is configured in this way, additional display such as a seal can be made with respect to the empty area 110 by using another color different from the predetermined color (the background color constituting the area in the mark 121a). When additionally displayed in different colors, the above-described information code reader 10 can recognize the writing. In the examples of FIGS. 11 and 12, as the identification display, the mark 121 a made up of a quadrilateral figure is illustrated, and an example in which the inside of the mark 121 a is configured as the information addition region is shown. As long as the boundary (outer edge) can be specified, the shape and configuration of the identification display may be any. For example, when the information addition area is configured by a predetermined color (for example, white), if the background adjacent to the information addition area is other than the predetermined color, the image area and the background are divided by different colors. become. In this case, the background adjacent to the periphery of the image area corresponds to the identification display.
By doing in this way, it becomes easy to specify the position of an information addition area more clearly. In particular, in this configuration, the data recording area around the empty area 110 is difficult to visually recognize in the normal environment. Therefore, if there is no mark in the empty area 110, the position of the addable area is difficult to understand in the normal environment. Although there is a possibility that it is difficult to fill in an accurate position, according to the present configuration, such a problem can be easily solved. For example, when the empty area 110 is completely blank and the periphery of the empty area 110 is not visible, it is difficult to specify the position to be stamped, so that the data recording area can be easily stamped, thereby reading the data recording area. However, according to the above configuration, this problem can be reliably suppressed.

  In this configuration, in the information code reading device 10, the light receiving sensor 23 (imaging unit) and the control circuit 40 functioning as a data recording area reading unit and an image processing unit are assembled in a case (housing) not shown. These components are integrally provided so that they can be gripped and operated integrally, and authentication can be completed within the apparatus.

  In the above-described example, the example in which the position data specifying the position of the feature points (a plurality of reference feature points) obtained by the pre-registration is recorded in the data recording area as the comparison data is obtained. The number of feature points (a plurality of reference feature points) may be recorded in the data recording area as comparison data. In this case, in the comparison process in S84, it is only necessary to determine whether or not the number of feature points recorded in the data recording area matches the number of feature points extracted in S83. If YES, the process proceeds to NO in S85.

[Third Embodiment]
Next, a third embodiment will be described.
The information code utilization system 1 of the third embodiment is also the same as that of the first embodiment in terms of hardware configuration, and the configuration shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 described above is used. Then, the forming apparatus 2 as shown in FIG. 1 generates an information code 100 as shown in FIG. 17A (information code in which cells serving as units for displaying information are arranged in a predetermined code area). It is like that. The method for generating the information code 100 by the forming apparatus 2 is the same as that in the first embodiment except for the specific contents of the empty area. As described above, the information code 100 generated by the forming apparatus 2 is different from the information code 100 of the first embodiment only in the contents of the empty area 110, and the information code 100 of the first embodiment except for the image of the empty area 110 is characteristic. Is included.

  In this configuration, the information code 100 is configured as a code as shown in FIG. 17A, and also in this example, the free area 110 is configured as an addable area. A fingerprint image can be formed in the empty area 110 as shown in FIG.

  In this example as well, as in the second embodiment, it is only necessary to pre-register a fingerprint to be registered, thereby enabling the authentication of the fingerprint attached afterward as shown in FIG. 17B. In this pre-registration, for example, a person who is to be registered is requested to print, and a surface of a material to be printed such as a paper material, a resin material, or a metal material is applied with a predetermined color of the printed image (the fingerprint image to be registered Image) is captured by the reader 10 or other cameras. For example, when using the feature point extraction method (maneuver method), the shape of the feature point is defined in advance, and the defined feature point is extracted from the fingerprint image obtained by the above-described operation. Then, registered fingerprint data is generated by the same method as in the second embodiment. Specifically, based on the type, X coordinate value, and Y coordinate value of each feature point, the value indicating the type, the value corresponding to the X direction position, and the Y direction position are corresponded for each feature point, as in FIG. The values may be generated in association with each other and used as registered fingerprint data (comparison data). In this case as well, data (a value indicating the type, a value corresponding to the X direction position, and a value corresponding to the Y direction position) of a predetermined number (for example, 15) of each feature point close to the reference position (origin) are used. These may be generated and used as registered fingerprint data (comparison data). When the forming apparatus 2 generates the information code 100 as shown in FIG. 17A, such registered fingerprint data (comparison data) is recorded in the data recording area. By preparing in advance as described above, the registered fingerprint data (comparison data) recorded in the data recording area is compared with the empty area 110 (image area) of the information code 100 as shown in FIG. The code configuration is such that the authentication succeeds when the corresponding fingerprint is attached, and the authentication fails when the fingerprint corresponding to the registered fingerprint data (comparison data) is not attached.

[Fourth Embodiment]
Next, a fourth embodiment will be described.
The information code utilization system 1 of the fourth embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment in terms of hardware configuration, and the configuration as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is used. Then, the forming apparatus 2 as shown in FIG. 1 generates an information code 100 as shown in FIG. 18A (an information code formed by arranging cells serving as units for displaying information within a predetermined code area). It is like that. The method for generating the information code 100 by the forming apparatus 2 is the same as that in the first embodiment except for the specific contents of the empty area. As described above, the information code 100 generated by the forming apparatus 2 is different from the information code 100 of the first embodiment only in the contents of the empty area 110, and the information code 100 of the first embodiment except for the image of the empty area 110 is characteristic. Is included.

  Also in this example, the forming apparatus 2 generates the same information code 100 as that in FIG. 18A, and when the information code 100 is generated, the image in the empty area 110 (image area) is processed. As data to be used at this time, comparison data for comparison with analysis data obtained by analyzing at least a part of an image in the empty area 110 (image area) or an image in the empty area 110 (image area) is a data recording area. (Recording data to be decrypted) is recorded. The comparison data used in this example is specific data that specifies at least one of numbers, characters, symbols, and figures to be recorded in the empty area 110 (image area). For example, if it is correct that the character “Tanaka” as shown in FIG. 18B is recorded, the data of the character “Tanaka” may be recorded as comparison data in the data recording area. In this way, it is possible to realize an information code 100 in which authentication is successful when the character “Tanaka” is written and an error occurs when the character “Tanaka” is not written. For example, if the correct answer is that the number “1234” is drawn, the data “1234” may be recorded as comparison data in the data recording area.

  In such an example, when the reading process as shown in FIG. 13 is performed, the feature point extraction process in S83 is changed to a symbol recognition process, and the comparison process in S84 is changed to a comparison process between a registered symbol and an extracted symbol. That's fine. Specifically, after performing the processes of S80 to S82 in the same manner as in the representative example, in S83, a known symbol recognition process (OCR (Optical Character Reader) process) is performed on the image in the image area, and the image is displayed. A symbol (for example, a handwritten symbol such as a handwritten character or a handwritten numeral) recorded in the area is grasped. Then, in S84, it is determined whether or not the symbol grasped in S83 and the symbol (comparison data) read in S81 match. If they match, the process proceeds to Yes in S85, and if they do not match, the process proceeds to S85. And go to No. In addition, about S86 and S87, it can carry out by the method similar to a representative example.

  Also in this configuration, the control circuit 40 corresponds to an image processing unit, and performs a recorded content recognition process for recognizing at least one of numbers, characters, symbols, and figures for an image in the empty area 110 (image area). Based on the recorded contents in the free area 110 (image area) recognized by the recognition processing and the specific data (data such as numbers, characters, symbols, and figures that are correct) recorded in the data recording area, the free area 110 is displayed. It functions to determine whether or not the image in the (image area) corresponds to a regular image (that is, an image representing numbers, characters, symbols, graphics, etc. recorded in the data recording area).

[Fifth Embodiment]
Next, a fifth embodiment will be described.
The information code utilization system 1 of the fifth embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment in terms of hardware configuration, and the configuration as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is used. Then, the forming apparatus 2 as shown in FIG. 1 generates an information code 100 as shown in FIG. 20 (information code in which cells serving as units for displaying information in a predetermined code area are arranged). ing. The method for generating the information code 100 by the forming apparatus 2 is the same as that in the first embodiment except for the specific contents of the empty area.

  As described above, the information code 100 generated by the forming apparatus 2 is different from the information code 100 of the first embodiment only in the contents of the empty area 110, and the information code 100 of the first embodiment except for the image of the empty area 110 is characteristic. Is included.

  Here, the information code 100 will be described. The information code 100 handled in the system 1 is also a specific pattern area (a position detection pattern 104 and a timing pattern (timing cell) 106 similar to those shown in FIG. , An area in which the alignment pattern 108 is arranged), a data recording area in which data is recorded by a plurality of types of cells 102, an error correction code recording area in which error correction codes are recorded by a plurality of types of cells 102, and a free area 110 Is provided. In the example of FIG. 20, the entire empty area 110 is configured as an image area. For example, as shown in FIG. 20, an image different from the cell 102 is represented in the empty area 110. This empty area 110 is an area where data can be recorded and / or design can be displayed by a method different from the method for recording data in the data recording area, and is larger than the size of the single cell 102. It consists of

  Also in this example, the configuration of the data recording area arranged around the empty area is defined as a predetermined difficult-to-view state in which it is difficult to visually identify a plurality of types of cells in the predetermined first state irradiated with visible light. What is necessary is just to set it as the structure which becomes the predetermined | prescribed specifyable state which can specify several types of cell in the predetermined 2nd state irradiated with the light of the predetermined wavelength band different from visible light. And at least any of the data or the design represented in the free space may be configured to be at least partially visible in the first state.

  In the information code 100, a follower part 112 is arranged in an empty area 110 (image area). As illustrated in FIG. 21, the follower unit 112 includes a first captured image 112 a obtained by the imaging unit when the reading device 10 captures an image from a predetermined first direction, and a predetermined image in which the reading device 10 is different from the first direction. The second captured image 112b obtained by the imaging unit when captured from the second direction has a different configuration.

  In the data recording area of the information code 100, for example, a product name, a product number, a price, a packaging unit, a unique ID (such as a serial number), store information, and the like are recorded.

  When such information code 100 is read by the reading device 10 and authentication is performed, the light receiving sensor 23 (imaging unit) of the reading device 10 captures the first captured image when the information code 100 is imaged from a predetermined first direction. The second captured image obtained when the information code 100 is captured from the second direction is acquired. For example, like the reading device 10 on the left side of FIG. 21, of the three position detection patterns 104, one position detection pattern 104 is at the upper left of the code area, and two position detection patterns 104 are at the lower left and lower right of the code area. In which the two position detection patterns 104 are on the lower side and the image is picked up obliquely from the lower side (the three position detection patterns 104 in the captured image have a predetermined first arrangement). The first captured image 112a of the follower unit 112 in this first direction is acquired. Of the three position detection patterns 104, two position detection patterns 104 are in the upper left and upper right of the code area, and one direction detection pattern 104 is in a direction in which a captured image is obtained in the lower right. A direction in which the one position detection pattern 104 side is taken as a lower side and an image is picked up from an oblique lower side (an image pickup direction in which the three position detection patterns 104 are in a predetermined second arrangement in the taken image) is defined as a second direction. The second captured image 112b of the follower unit 112 is acquired. And the brand name, serial number, etc. which were recorded on the data recording area are acquired, and the 1st picked-up image 112a and the 2nd picked-up image 112b are transmitted to the server which is not illustrated with these information.

  Since the regular image in the first direction and the regular image in the second direction of the follower unit 112 are registered in advance in the server in association with the product name and serial number, these regular images have been transmitted. The first captured image 112a and the second captured image 112b that have been transmitted by collating the first captured image 112a and the second captured image 112b with known pattern matching or the like are registered in advance in the server. It can be determined whether or not. If the image of the follower part sent from the reading device 10 is a normal image in the first direction and a normal image in the second direction corresponding to the serial number, the reading device 10 is notified that the authentication is successful. Send.

  In this configuration, the control circuit 40 of the reading device 10 shown in FIG. 2 corresponds to an example of an image processing unit, and functions to authenticate the follower unit 112 based on a predetermined first captured image and the second captured image. To do.

  In this configuration, the information code 100 including the follower unit 112 that can generate at least two types of images can be used as an authentication medium. Since the reading device 10 can acquire two types of images from the follower unit and can perform authentication based on the acquisition result, it is easier to determine whether or not the follower is genuine.

[Sixth Embodiment]
Next, a sixth embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.
The information code utilization system of the sixth embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment with respect to the hardware configuration, and the configuration shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 described above is used.

  In the information code utilization system of the sixth embodiment, the information code 200 as shown in FIG. 22B is generated by the forming apparatus 2 (see FIG. 1 and the like). Even in this configuration, a specific pattern area in which a specific pattern (position detection pattern 204) having a predetermined shape is arranged inside the code area, a data recording area in which data is recorded by a plurality of types of cells, and an empty area 210 And are provided.

  In this configuration, except for the configuration in the empty area 210, it is configured as a known QR code (registered trademark). First, as shown in FIG. A recording area and an error correction code recording area for recording an error correction code by a plurality of types of cells are provided. The recording method of the data code word in the data recording area and the recording method of the error correction code word in the error correction code recording area are the same as those of the known QR code (registered trademark), for example, a method defined in JISX0510 The arrangement of the position detection pattern 204 in the code area, the arrangement of the data code word in the data recording area, and the arrangement of the error correction code word in the error correction code recording area are determined.

  However, as shown in FIG. 22A, an information code 200 ′ in which a code word in a partial area is configured as a code word expressed only by white cells is generated, and thus an area expressed only by white cells. AR is a free area 210. In the example of FIG. 22B, a sign image recording area similar to that of the fourth embodiment is provided in the empty area 210, and a sign is shown in the sign image recording area. When configured in this way, the configuration is different from the original data display as shown in FIG. 22A, but the error in the data in the empty area 210 is corrected by the error correction recorded in the error correction code recording area. A known error correction may be performed using a code.

  In addition, in the information code 200 shown in FIG. 22B, the position of the empty area 210 is specified in advance. Therefore, when the design and information are added and displayed in the empty area 210, the error position by this display is set in advance. I know that. Therefore, the error correction code in the error correction code recording area can be configured to perform erasure correction using the position of the empty area 210 as the error position. In this case, information indicating the position of the vacant area 210 is recorded in the data recording area in advance, or stored in the reading apparatus 10 (FIG. 1) in advance, so that the reading apparatus 10 can read the vacant area at the time of reading. The position of 210 (that is, the position of the data code word in which an error has occurred) can be specified, and the reader 10 can determine the position of the data code word existing in the empty area 210 whose position is specified in this way. In order to correct the error, the erasure correction may be performed using the error correction code recorded in the error correction code recording area.

  Further, when a part of the existing QR code (registered trademark) is configured as the empty area 210 as shown in FIG. 22, the identification information as shown in FIG. 24A is included in the data recorded in the data recording area. Just keep it. FIG. 24A conceptually shows the structure of the data to be decrypted recorded in the data recording area. In this example, data of a predetermined structure (%% IMAGE %%) is present at the beginning of the data to be decrypted. It is attached. With this configuration, when the reading apparatus 10 detects this identification information (%% IMAGE %%) from the data to be decoded recorded in the data recording area, a predetermined process ( For example, image recognition processing) can be performed. Conversely, when the identification information (%% IMAGE %%) cannot be detected, normal decoding processing is performed. In this example, it is desirable that the data in the data recording area includes position data for specifying the position of the image area and other accompanying information in addition to the normal data. The data shown in FIG. 24 (A) indicates the data to be decoded that is arranged before the end terminal in the data recorded in the data recording area, and the padding data that is arranged after the end terminal. The code is omitted. In this configuration, for example, the entire area of the padding code can be displayed with only white cells, and this area can be handled as the empty area 210.

  Moreover, the example of identification information is not restricted to this example, For example, you may make it use a mode number for exclusive use as a mode number. For example, in the QR code standard, 1: numerical mode, 2: alphanumeric mode, 3: concatenation mode, etc. are defined, and 14: image recognition mode may be provided as one of such mode numbers. Good. In such an example, when the mode number “14” is set, a predetermined process (image recognition process) for the empty area 210 may be performed.

  Even in such an example, the configuration of the data recording area arranged around the empty area has a predetermined visual difficulty that makes it difficult to identify a plurality of types of cells in the predetermined first state irradiated with visible light. What is necessary is just to set it as the structure which will be in the predetermined | prescribed specifyable state which can specify several types of cell in the predetermined 2nd state irradiated with the light of the predetermined wavelength band different from visible light. And at least any of the data or the design represented in the free space may be configured to be at least partially visible in the first state.

[Seventh Embodiment]
Next, a seventh embodiment will be described.
The information code utilization system of the seventh embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment in terms of hardware configuration, and the configuration as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is used.

  In the information code utilization system of the seventh embodiment, an information code 300 as shown in FIG. 23B is generated by the forming apparatus 2 (see FIG. 1 and the like). Even in this configuration, a specific pattern having a predetermined shape (L-shaped alignment pattern 304a and light cells and dark cells are alternately arranged one by one inside the code region, and L along the boundary of the code region. A specific pattern area in which a timing pattern (timing cell) 304b) constituting a character-shaped area is arranged, and a data recording area in which data is recorded by a plurality of types of cells are provided. The empty area 310 in which at least one of data recording and design display can be performed at a position different from the method of recording data in the data recording area is set to a predetermined size larger than the size of a single cell. Is provided.

  In this configuration, except for the configuration of the empty area 310, it is configured as a known data matrix code. First, as shown in FIG. 23A, in the code area, a specific pattern area, a data recording area, An error correction code recording area for recording an error correction code by a plurality of types of cells is provided. The recording method of the data code word in the data recording area and the recording method of the error correction code word in the error correction code recording area are the same as the known data matrix code, and the alignment pattern 304a and timing pattern 304b in the code area. The arrangement of the data code word in the data recording area and the arrangement of the error correction code word in the error correction code recording area are determined in accordance with, for example, the ECC200 version.

  However, as shown in FIG. 23A, an information code 300 ′ in which a code word of a partial region is configured as a code word expressed only by white cells is generated, and thus the region expressed only by white cells. AR is a free area 310. When the empty area 310 is provided as shown in FIG. 23B, the configuration is different from the original data display as shown in FIG. 23A. However, an error in the data in the empty area 310 is an error correction code. Known error correction may be performed using the error correction code recorded in the recording area.

  In addition, in the information code 300 shown in FIG. 23B, the position of the empty area 310 is specified in advance. Therefore, when the design and information are added and displayed in the empty area 310, the error position by this display is set in advance. I know that. Therefore, the error correction code in the error correction code recording area can be configured to perform erasure correction using the position of the empty area 310 as the error position. In this case, information indicating the position of the empty area 310 is recorded in the data recording area in advance, or is stored in the reading apparatus 10 (FIG. 1) in advance, so that the reading apparatus 10 can read the empty area at the time of reading. The position of 310 (that is, the position of the data code word in which an error has occurred) can be specified, and the reader 10 can determine the position of the data code word existing in the empty area 310 in which the position is specified in this way. In order to correct the error, the erasure correction may be performed using the error correction code recorded in the error correction code recording area.

  Further, when a part of the existing data matrix code is configured as the free area 310 as shown in FIG. 23, the identification information as shown in FIG. 24B should be included in the data recorded in the data recording area. Good. FIG. 24B conceptually shows the structure of the data to be decrypted recorded in the data recording area. In this example, data of a predetermined structure (%% IMAGE %%) is present at the beginning of the data to be decrypted. It is attached. With this configuration, when the reading device 10 detects the identification information (%% IMAGE %%) from the data to be decoded recorded in the data recording area, the reader 10 performs a predetermined process ( For example, image recognition processing) can be performed. Conversely, when the identification information (%% IMAGE %%) cannot be detected, normal decoding processing is performed. In this example, it is desirable that the data in the data recording area includes position data for specifying the position of the image area and other accompanying information in addition to the normal data.

  Moreover, the example of identification information is not restricted to this example, For example, you may make it use a codeword for exclusive use. As the specification of the data matrix code, for example, when 0 to 128 is defined as an ASCII character and 233 is a connection mode, “234” may be newly defined as a special code word for image recognition. In such an example, when the code word “234” is included in the data in the data recording area, the image recognition process for the empty area 310 may be performed. In addition, when there is an unused code word, an unused code word is included as identification information, and when an unused code word is included in data in the data recording area, a predetermined code for the empty area 310 is provided. Processing (for example, image recognition processing) may be performed.

  Even in such an example, the configuration of the data recording area arranged around the empty area has a predetermined visual difficulty that makes it difficult to identify a plurality of types of cells in the predetermined first state irradiated with visible light. What is necessary is just to set it as the structure which will be in the predetermined | prescribed specifyable state which can specify several types of cell in the predetermined 2nd state irradiated with the light of the predetermined wavelength band different from visible light. And at least any of the data or the design represented in the free space may be configured to be at least partially visible in the first state.

[Other Embodiments]
The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described with reference to the above description and drawings. For example, the following embodiments are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

  In the first embodiment and the like, the position data indicating the position of the information input area (for example, the image area position information shown in FIG. 3) is included in the information code 100. However, the present invention is not limited to such an example. I can't. For example, the configuration may be such that the forming apparatus 2 generates the information code so that the image area is arranged at a predetermined position in the empty area. In this case, information for specifying a predetermined position (information such as image region position information shown in FIG. 3) may be stored in the storage unit 5. In this case, the information code reading device 10 may store in the memory 35 identification information (information such as image region position information shown in FIG. 3) that identifies a predetermined position, as in the forming device 2. Then, the information code reader 10 may read out such specific information from the memory 35 in S45 of FIG. 9 to specify a free area, and then perform the subsequent processing. In this case, the image area position information shown in FIG. 3 may not be included in the header data.

  The present invention can also be configured as a display device capable of displaying any one, plural, or all of the information codes described above. Moreover, it can also be configured as a printing apparatus capable of printing any one, plural or all of the information codes described above. Furthermore, it can also be configured as a computer-readable program for generating any one, plural or all of the information codes described above. Moreover, it can also be comprised as a recording medium which recorded the program for producing | generating the 1 or several or all the information code mentioned above. Furthermore, it can also be grasped as an information code medium (a printed material, a formed material formed by direct marking, etc.) to which one or a plurality of or all information codes are attached. Moreover, it can also be grasped as a display image on which one, a plurality, or all of the information codes described above are displayed.

  In the configuration of FIG. 1 and the like, an example in which the forming device 2 and the information code reading device 10 are configured as separate devices is shown, but the forming device 2 may be configured as the information code reading device 10. Further, the forming device 2 may be configured by a plurality of devices, and the information code reading device 10 may be configured by a plurality of devices.

  In the above embodiment, an example in which the empty area 110 is provided in the center of the code area has been described. However, the arrangement of the empty area 110 is not limited to this example. Similarly, the position of the image area 121 is not limited to the above example. For example, an empty area may be provided near the periphery of the code area, and the image area 121 may be provided at this position. In addition, as the design of the image area, various other designs can be adopted as long as the configuration includes a figure, a pattern, a color, or a combination thereof. In addition, when information is displayed instead of the design or together with the design, the contents of the information are various.

  In the above embodiment, the QR code is taken as an example of the other type code, and the specific pattern of the QR code is taken as an example of the specific pattern used in the information code 100. However, other types of two-dimensional codes may be used. For example, a data matrix code may be used as the other type code, and a specific pattern used in the information code 100 may be used as the specific pattern of the data matrix code.

  The correspondence in the arrangement conversion table set as shown in FIG. 5 can be arbitrarily changed as shown in FIG. For example, when the arrangement conversion table set as shown in FIG. 5 in the forming device 2 and the information code reading device 10 is changed as shown in FIG. 7, the generated information code 100 includes the 22nd to 23rd code words. The arrangement is changed from the arrangement shown in the right figure of FIG. 5 (the arrangement recorded in the arrangement candidate positions 22 to 23) to the arrangement shown in the right figure of FIG. 7 (the arrangement recorded in the arrangement candidate positions 42 to 43). As a result, the position and shape of the empty area 110 also change. In this case, the arrangement candidate positions Nos. 22 to 23 may be empty areas, or arrangement positions of other code words. That is, in this configuration, the position and shape of the empty area 110 can be adjusted by adjusting the arrangement conversion table, and the degree of freedom in configuring the empty area can be further increased.

  In the above embodiment, an example in which the empty area 110 is provided and the image area is provided in the empty area 110 has been described, but the present invention is not limited to such an example. For example, an image as described above is provided by overwriting or the like in a cell arrangement area of a general two-dimensional code (for example, QR code) capable of error correction, and error correction is performed on data in the area crushed by such an image area. You may make it restore by.

  In the above embodiment, an example is shown in which the empty area specified in S46 of FIG. For example, the specified empty area may be extracted as a black and white image or a gray scale image.

  In the above embodiment, an example of the “code area” is shown. However, the “code area” may be a minimum square area or rectangular area that includes all of the plurality of types of cells constituting the information code, and the inner edge of the code area. The cell may not be arranged in a part of the part. For example, as shown in the information code 800 of FIG. 25, the empty area 810 may be formed adjacent to the periphery of the code area. In this case, the minimum square area or rectangular area including all of the plurality of types of cells constituting the information code 800 is as indicated by a one-dot chain line AR, and the outer edge of the empty area 810 is as indicated by a two-dot chain line AR2, for example. In addition, it is sufficient that at least a part of the image area to be recognized exists in the code area, and the remaining part may exist outside the code area as in the image area AR3 in FIG. In the example as shown in FIG. 26, information for specifying the range of the image area AR3 may be recorded in advance in the data recording area. In FIGS. 25 and 26, the same design as that of the sixth embodiment is shown in the empty area, but designs and data used in other embodiments may be shown.

  In the above embodiment, a bright cell such as a white cell and a dark cell such as a black cell are exemplified as a plurality of types of cells constituting the code area. However, a specific pattern area, a data recording area, and an error correction code in the code area are exemplified. The recording area may be configured as a first type cell having a predetermined density, luminance, and color, and a second type cell that is different in density, luminance, or color from the first type cell. Alternatively, the specific pattern area, the data recording area, and the error correction code recording area in the code area may be configured by three or more types of cells each having different density, luminance, or color.

  In the above embodiment, an example in which a plurality of cells having a square outer shape are arranged in the specific pattern area, the data recording area, and the error correction code recording area in the code area has been described. It may be a polygon other than a rectangle, or a figure such as a circle or an ellipse.

  In the above embodiment, the position detection pattern 104, the timing pattern 106, the alignment pattern 108, and the like are illustrated as examples of the specific pattern. However, the area is configured as a fixed pattern regardless of the contents of the data recording area and the error correction code recording area. If so, the figure constituting the specific pattern may be another unique figure.

  In the above embodiment, an example of the empty area is shown. However, the empty area is an area in which the data to be decoded is not recorded by the cell, and information display or image Any area may be used as long as it is displayed. For example, as in the first embodiment, a vacant area may be configured as an area where no code word is arranged. In a known QR code, an error correction code word that represents an error correction code or data to be decoded is used. An area where a data code word to be expressed is not arranged and a padding code word is arranged may be a free area. Further, in any free area, “information display by a method different from the method of recording data in the data recording area by cell” can be performed, and this information display is exemplified in the above embodiment. In addition to information, other information such as letters, numbers, and other symbols may be used, or a method of displaying information that represents a specific product or service by a trademark or the like may be used. Further, in the free area, “image display by a method different from the method of recording data in the data recording area by cell” can be performed, and the display of this image is not limited to the image exemplified in the above embodiment, Various shapes, patterns, colors, combinations thereof, and the like can be represented.

Further, the information code 900 in FIG. 27 may be configured. In this example, the same empty area as that of the first embodiment is provided, but only the specification of the empty area is different from that of the first embodiment. In the example of FIG. 27, specific contents of areas other than some of the specific patterns are omitted, and in fact, bright cells and dark cells are arranged in an external area outside the empty area 910. Become. In the free space 910, for example, an image similar to the free space 110 of the first embodiment or an image similar to the free space of other embodiments is displayed.
Also in this configuration, a plurality of model numbers are prepared for the type of the information code 900. For each model number, the number of rows and columns of cells, the shape and position of a specific pattern, the position of format information, and the candidate position (address) of a code word Is predetermined. When the forming apparatus 2 generates the information code 900, the model number information is arranged at a predetermined position in the code area (the reserved area 107 in the example of FIG. 27). Therefore, when the reading device 10 reads the information code 900, the code image of the information code 900 is analyzed, and the model number information arranged at a predetermined position is read, so that the number of rows and columns of cells of the information code 900, The shape and position of the specific pattern, the position of the format information, and the candidate position (address) of the code word can be grasped.
When generating the information code 900, one of the model numbers is selected from a plurality of model numbers prepared in advance. Thereby, the basic configuration (the position of the specific pattern 104, the number of rows and columns of cells, the candidate position of the code word) in the code area is determined. For example, the model number of the configuration shown in FIG. 27 has a cell array of 29 rows and 29 columns, and a specific pattern 104 having the same structure as a QR code (registered trademark) cut-out symbol at three predetermined corners. Is arranged. An area (predetermined position 105) for recording format information is provided at a predetermined position near the specific pattern 104. In addition, in the 29 × 29 matrix area, codeword candidate positions are determined in advance at positions other than the specific pattern 104 and the predetermined position 105, and addresses from 0 to 67 are assigned to the candidate positions. . In this way, since the configuration in the code area is defined in advance in the configuration corresponding to the model number, if the model number is specified, it is possible to specify which order code word is arranged at which position. Become. The information of the determined model number is recorded at a predetermined fixed position in the model number array. For example, in the example of FIG. 27, model number information is recorded in an area 107 specified by a predetermined type of hatching.
After the model number is determined and the basic configuration in the code area is determined, the shape and position of the empty area are determined. The method for determining the shape of the vacant area may be determined by, for example, a method of selecting from a plurality of candidate shapes prepared in advance, or according to shape designation information input from the outside to the forming apparatus 2. It may be determined by a method of setting a different shape. Or you may determine only to the fixed shape decided. Further, the position of the empty area may be determined as a predetermined fixed position, or may be determined by inputting information for designating the position by the user.
After the vacant area is determined, the information code 900 is configured such that the code word in the data recording area and the code word in the error correction code recording area are respectively arranged at the candidate position of the code word that deviates from the determined position of the vacant area. Is generated. For example, in the model number configured as shown in FIG. 27, specific patterns 104 are arranged at three corners, and 68 codeword candidates numbered from 0 to 67 with reference to the positions of the specific patterns 104 are used. The position is defined in advance. In such a layout, when the empty area 910 is determined as shown in FIG. 27, codeword candidate positions that at least partially enter the empty area 910 are excluded from the arrangement target positions, and the positions of the excluded codewords The code words are arranged in order as if skipping. For example, in the example of FIG. 27, since the empty area 910 is set so as to enter the candidate positions of the code words 50, 51, 53, 54, and 60 to 67, these 50, 51, 53, Code words are not arranged at the candidate positions of the 54th and 60th to 67th codewords. That is, after the code words are arranged in order at positions 0 to 49, the code words 50 and 51 are skipped and the code words are arranged at the position 52, and then the codes 53 and 54 are skipped and the codes 55 to 59 are skipped. The code words are arranged in order at the positions. In this way, the data code word obtained by encoding the data to be decoded and the error correction code word representing the error correction code can be reliably arranged at the candidate positions outside the empty area 910.
After determining the specific pattern area (specific pattern 104 or other specific pattern area), the format area (predetermined position 105), the model number area 107, each codeword area, and the like, the specific contents of the empty area 910 are determined. To decide. In this information code 900 as well, an information code 900 having the same function as in FIG. 1 can be configured by representing an image similar to the empty area 110 in the empty area 910. Note that the method of using the information code 900 is the same as in the first embodiment and other embodiments.
Even in such an example, the configuration of the data recording area arranged around the empty area has a predetermined visual difficulty that makes it difficult to identify a plurality of types of cells in the predetermined first state irradiated with visible light. What is necessary is just to set it as the structure which will be in the predetermined | prescribed specifyable state which can specify several types of cell in the predetermined 2nd state irradiated with the light of the predetermined wavelength band different from visible light. And at least any of the data or the design represented in the free space may be configured to be at least partially visible in the first state.

  In the above embodiment, the first wavelength band is the visible light wavelength band and the second wavelength band is the ultraviolet wavelength band. However, the first wavelength band is the visible light wavelength band and the second wavelength band is the infrared wavelength band. It is good also as a wavelength band. In this case, the light emitting ink described above may be an infrared light emitting ink, and such a light emitting ink may be applied only to either the first type cell 102a or the second type cell 102b. In this way, both the first-type cell 102a area and the second-type cell 102b area show the color of the ground on the surface of the forming object 105 in the visible light environment. In an environment where infrared light is irradiated, only the type of cells to which infrared light emitting ink is applied emits light. It becomes possible to distinguish and recognize.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Information code utilization system 2 ... Forming device 10 ... Information code reading device 23 ... Light receiving sensor (imaging part)
40... Control circuit (data recording area reading unit, image processing unit)
100, 200, 300, 800, 900 ... information code 102 ... cell 104 ... position detection pattern (specific pattern)
110, 210, 310, 810, 910 ... empty area (image area)
121a ... Range identification image 150 ... Formation target medium P ... Information code medium

Claims (18)

An information code medium in which an information code in which cells serving as units for displaying information are arranged in a predetermined code area is formed on a predetermined medium to be formed,
A specific pattern area in which a specific pattern having a predetermined shape is arranged inside the code area; a data recording area for recording data by a plurality of types of cells; and a method for recording data in the data recording area; Are provided with free areas that allow data recording or design display in different ways,
The data recording area arranged around the empty area is in a predetermined difficult-to-view state in which it is difficult to visually identify a plurality of types of cells in a predetermined first state irradiated with light of a predetermined first wavelength band. next, the configuration der as a plurality of kinds of said cells capable predetermined identifiable specific state in a predetermined second state in which light is irradiated for a different second wavelength band from the first wavelength band is,
The empty area is a target area where predetermined image processing is performed in response to reading of the information code,
In the data recording area, as usage data used when the image processing is performed, at least a part of the image of the empty area or analysis data obtained by analyzing the image of the empty area is compared. information code medium comparison data is characterized that you have been recorded.   2. The information code medium according to claim 1, wherein at least one of data and a design represented in the empty area is configured to be at least partially visible in the first state.   The specific pattern area arranged around the empty area is in a predetermined invisible state in which it is difficult to visually recognize the shape of the specific pattern area in the first state, and the shape of the specific pattern area in the second state. The information code medium according to claim 1, wherein the information code medium is in a predetermined visualization state in which visual recognition is possible.   The entire area outside the empty area in the code area is composed of a light color area and a dark color area, and it is difficult to distinguish the light color area from the dark color area in the first state. 4. The visual recognition state according to claim 1, wherein the visual recognition difficulty state is established, and the visual recognition is possible in the second state so that the light color region and the dark color region can be distinguished from each other. 5. Information code medium.   Each of the cells of any one of the data recording areas arranged around the empty area is formed by light emitting ink that is in a non-light emitting state in the first state and in a light emitting state in the second state. 5. The cell according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein each of the cells of another type different from the one type is configured not to be attached with the light emitting ink. Information code medium.   The information according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein predetermined related information related to data or a design represented in the empty area is recorded in the data recording area. Code medium.   The information according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the empty area is configured as an addable area to which an image can be added later after the information code is formed. Code medium.   The information code medium according to claim 7, wherein a range specifying image indicating a range of the addable region is represented in the empty region. The information code medium according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein position data indicating a position of the empty area in the code area is recorded in the data recording area. A forming apparatus for forming an information code medium in which information codes in which cells serving as units for displaying information are arranged in a predetermined code area are represented on a predetermined formation target medium;
An information code reader capable of reading the information code of the information code medium formed by the forming device;
An information code using system comprising:
The forming apparatus includes:
A specific pattern area in which a specific pattern having a predetermined shape is arranged inside the code area; a data recording area for recording data by a plurality of types of cells; and a method for recording data in the data recording area; Provides free space that allows data recording or design display in different ways,
The configuration of the data recording area arranged around the empty area is a predetermined visual recognition in which it is difficult to visually identify a plurality of types of cells in a predetermined first state where light of a predetermined first wavelength band is irradiated. In a predetermined second state in which a plurality of types of cells can be specified in a predetermined second state in which light having a second wavelength band different from the first wavelength band is irradiated, which is in a difficult state. In the configuration, forming the information code on the medium to be formed,
The information code reader is
An imaging unit capable of imaging the information code;
A data recording area reading unit for reading data recorded in the data recording area when the information code is imaged by the imaging unit;
An image processing unit that performs predetermined image processing on the image of the empty area in the code image of the information code imaged by the imaging unit;
I have a,
The forming apparatus uses at least a part of the image of the empty area or comparison data for comparison with analysis data obtained by analyzing the image of the empty area, utilization data used when the image processing is performed As an information code utilization system, the information code is formed on the medium to be formed with a configuration recorded in the data recording area .   The forming apparatus forms the information code on the formation target medium in a configuration in which at least one of data and a design represented in the empty area is at least partially visible in the first state. The information code utilization system according to claim 10.   The forming apparatus is configured to be in a predetermined invisible state in which the configuration of the specific pattern region arranged around the empty region is difficult to visually recognize the shape of the specific pattern region in the first state, The information code is formed on the medium to be formed in a configuration in which the shape of the specific pattern area is visually recognized in the second state so as to be visible. Information code usage system described.   The forming apparatus includes a light color region and a dark color region in the entire region outside the vacant region in the code region, and the configuration of the entire region is the light color region and the dark color in the first state. The formation target medium is configured to be in a visually difficult state that is difficult to distinguish from an area, and in the visible state in which the light color area and the dark color area can be distinguished in the second state. The information code utilization system according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the information code is formed on the information code.   The forming apparatus causes each cell of any one type of the data recording area arranged around the empty area to be in a non-light emitting state in the first state and to be in a light emitting state in the second state. 14. The structure according to claim 10, wherein each of the cells of another type different from the one type is formed by using a luminescent ink, and the luminescent ink is not applied to each of the cells. Information code usage system.   The forming apparatus forms the information code on the medium to be formed with a configuration in which predetermined related information related to data or design represented in the empty area is recorded in the data recording area. The information code utilization system according to any one of claims 10 to 14.   The forming apparatus forms the information code on the formation target medium in a configuration in which a part or all of the empty area is an addable area where an image can be added after the information code is formed. The information code utilization system according to any one of claims 10 to 15, wherein the information code utilization system is used.   17. The information code according to claim 16, wherein the forming apparatus forms the information code on the formation target medium in a configuration in which a range specifying image indicating the range of the addable area is represented in the empty area. Usage system.   11. The forming apparatus forms the information code on the medium to be formed with a configuration in which position data indicating a position of the empty area in the code area is recorded in the data recording area. The information code utilization system according to any one of claims 1 to 17.

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