JP2000011118A - Data record medium and data reading device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To make a system at the time of selectively providing information according to the reading method of a code image compatible with a system at the time of providing information in a normal reading method while sharing a data format. SOLUTION: Optically readable (n) code images (for example, four code images 201-204) are mutually separated and arranged so as to be read by manual scanning in a data record medium 200. The prescribed (k) code images (for example, three code images 201, 203, and 204) among the (n) code images are allowed to include data to be recorded, and the residual (n-k) code images (for example, one code image 202) is obtained as a pseudo code image for inhibiting the output of information. The original information is outputted only at the time of reading the prescribed (k) code images. The combination of the code reading is obtained as a password.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a data recording medium in which encoded data including audio information, video information or text information is printed and recorded on a recording medium such as paper as an optically readable code image. The present invention relates to a data reading device that optically reads a code image from a data recording medium to reproduce and output original information, and in particular, data recording that can selectively provide the original information according to how to read the code image. The present invention relates to a medium and a data reading device.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there have been proposed many methods of encoding digital information, character information, and the like, and printing and recording them as various code images such as one-dimensional barcodes and two-dimensional barcodes.

[0003] The applicant of the present invention has also increased the demand for a data recording medium in which large-capacity multimedia information such as audio information, video information or text is printed and recorded as an optically readable code image. JP-A-6
No. 231466.

Hereinafter, a code image of a data recording medium disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 6-231466 and an outline of a reading apparatus for reading the data recording medium will be described.

FIG. 13A shows a data recording medium 100 in which data relating to audio information is printed and recorded as an optically readable code image 101 on a sheet such as paper.
FIG. Here, the code image 101 is configured by an aggregate of blocks in which a block 102 including a set of dots of a predetermined unit is arranged in a two-dimensional matrix. Each block which is a set of dots is recognized macroscopically with a predetermined density.

FIG. 13B shows the code image 1 described above.
Note that one block of 01 is expanded. In the figure, a block 102 includes a user data portion 103 in which data relating to audio information is encoded and recorded as dots, and information such as an address of the block arranged in a predetermined positional relationship with respect to the user data portion 103. And a block header section 104 indicating the following. Further, the block 102 includes a marker 105 disposed at a predetermined position, for example, at the four corners thereof, used for block recognition, and a marker adjacent to the marker 105 at a predetermined position, for example, a first direction. It has a matching dot pattern 106 arranged between them. The block header section 104 is arranged at a predetermined position with respect to the marker 105, for example, between markers adjacent in the second direction. These matching dot pattern section 106, block header section 104 and user data section 1
The dots 107 arranged in 03 are composed of dots of the same size. For example, the dot 107 is recorded as a dot having a size of 40 to 80 μm. Also, the marker 105
Is formed as a dot having a larger area than these dots, and is recorded on a recording medium as a circular dot having a diameter five times as large as the dot 107, for example.

The dots recorded in the user data section 103 are subjected to a modulation process. This modulation process is performed for the dot 10
This is performed to limit the number of continuous dots in order to distinguish 7 from the marker 105. If the diameter of the marker 105 is five times the dot 107, the number of continuous dots must be limited to four or less. In the block 102 according to FIG. 13B, a block composed of a grid of 17 dots × 17 dots has been described. However, the size is not limited to this.
It may be 0 dots or 40 dots × 40 dots. Note that the vertical and horizontal grid lines in the block 102 are virtual lines for indicating dot positions.

FIG. 13C shows a block header section 10.
In the figure showing data related to No. 4, a bit with a dot corresponds to "1" and a bit without a dot corresponds to "0". As described above, in addition to the block address data, the block header section 104 in which the data related to the address of the block is recorded is used to return the encoded data recorded as dots in the user data section 103 to the original audio information. , Control data including data such as the total number of blocks, the interleave length, and the parity length, which are necessary for the control, are recorded.

Next, a code reading device will be described. The code reader captures a code pattern image by manually scanning in the direction of the arrow shown in FIG. First, the marker 105 is detected from the captured image using a feature having a large dot size. Thereafter, the coordinates of the respective centers of gravity of the matching dot patterns 106 arranged between the markers are obtained. Then, from the obtained barycentric coordinates of each matching dot pattern and the format information that is known information, an accurate center coordinate of the marker 105 is calculated by using the least squares method so that the positional deviation amount is minimized, Based on this position, a reading point of each dot 107 is obtained, and each dot 107 is read. For a more specific method of reading this code, see Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 8-171620.
Since it is disclosed in detail in the official gazette, further description is omitted.

In the above-described code image including various one-dimensional and two-dimensional barcodes, there are cases where it is not desirable to output recorded information to a person other than a specific target person. Has been proposed. For example, there is a method of detecting an angle or a speed in a scanning direction when reading a code with a reading device, and using the values as a password. Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 9-223185 discloses a method of setting a personal identification number. When an operator reads a code composed of a plurality of patterns in which information is encoded, the personal identification number is determined based on the order in which the patterns are read. Alternatively, a method of decoding the selection number has been proposed.

The latter method is shown in FIGS. 14A to 14C.
This will be described with reference to FIG. Here, FIG. 14A shows a plurality of patterns A to P in which compressed audio information is encoded into binary digital data and recorded. Audio information is divided and recorded in each of the patterns A to P in FIG. FIG. 14B is a diagram showing the data structure of each of the audio data "A", "B", and "C". The audio data “A”, “B”, and “C” are “A0” to “A3”, “B0” to “B3”, and “C”, respectively.
0 ”to“ C3. ”FIG.
The structure of data recorded on five patterns A to E is shown. Among them, the region R1 is an ordinal region indicating the ordinal number of each pattern, R2 is a total number region indicating the total number of patterns, and R3 is an information number region indicating information number data. R4, R5, R6
Are divided audio data “A”, “B”,
In the area where “C” is recorded, the subscript indicates the order data to scan the pattern.

In the reading apparatus, every time the pattern is scanned, the scanning order is sequentially compared with the order data of the recorded audio data. What is output. That is, in the case of the audio data "A", the pattern C corresponding to "A0" is scanned first, the pattern A corresponding to "A1", the pattern E corresponding to "A2", and finally the pattern "A3". Only when scanning in the order of the pattern B corresponding to "", the output of the audio data A can be obtained.

[0013]

The problem to be solved by the present invention is disclosed in JP-A-9-223.
According to the method disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication No. 185, only a user who knows a password can obtain recorded voice information by reading patterns in a correct order. However, on the other hand, in the case of a system that provides voice in a reading method that reads all ordinary patterns that are not affected by the reading order without setting a password, the data format is There is a need for a new change. That is, JP-A-9-
This is because the data format disclosed in Japanese Patent No. 223185 does not take into account the possibility of setting the password and setting the password not to be changed.

In this type of system, when a password is set and each pattern is read in a predetermined order, a data format is obtained when a voice is obtained for the first time. It is desirable to share the data format in which voice is obtained when read in order, and to flood the market with a variety of data formats, which may confuse users or cause unnecessary confusion. Giving should be avoided as much as possible.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and a system for selectively providing information according to a code image reading method while sharing a data format, and a general reading method It is an object of the present invention to provide a data recording medium and a data reading device which are compatible with a system for providing information by using a data recording medium.

[0016]

In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, a data recording medium according to the present invention prints and records optically readable data by converting data obtained by encoding information into an image according to the content thereof. A data recording medium in which n code images (n is an integer of 3 or more) are arranged separately from each other so that each code image can be read by manual scanning. Of the code images of (k) (n> k ≧
2, k is an integer), and at least one of the (nk) code images excluding the predetermined k codes is prohibited from outputting the information. It is a pseudo code image for performing.

That is, according to the data recording medium of the present invention,
It is composed of n code images (n is an integer of 3 or more) printed and optically readable so that data obtained by encoding information is formed into an image according to the content thereof, and each code image can be read by manual scanning. So that they are separated from each other. That is, the reader can select reading / not reading for each code image.
The encoded data to be read is divided into predetermined k (n> k ≧ 2, k is an integer) code images of the n code images, and the k code images are excluded.
At least one of the (nk) code images is a pseudo code image for inhibiting output of the information. That is, when the reader reads the present data recording medium, the original information can be output by reading the k code images including the encoded data out of the n code images regardless of the order. On the other hand, in the case of reading a code image by a combination other than the k pieces including the pseudo code image, the recorded information cannot be output. That is, a reader who does not know the combination of the predetermined k code images cannot output the recorded information.

Here, when the password is not set, n =
k, and no pseudo code image for inhibiting the output of information is provided. In this case, the recorded information can be output by a reading method of reading all the predetermined code images.

As described above, the data recording medium according to the present invention outputs information only when the operator manually scans according to a predetermined reading procedure when setting a password, and outputs the information when no password is set. , To output information by reading all code images, and
One data structure (format) common to both cases
This is what makes it possible.

For example, the present invention can be applied to a selection problem in a collection of problems in a language teaching material, or a use of setting a password in a voice code between friends. Further, the data reading device according to the present invention includes:
In order to read n (n is an integer of 3 or more) code images which are formed by optically reading and recording optically readable data by image-encoding data obtained by encoding information, each code image can be read by manual scanning. A data recording medium arranged separately from each other, wherein encoded data to be read is a predetermined k of the n code images.
(N> k ≧ 2, where k is an integer) are divided and included, and at least one of the (nk) code images excluding the predetermined k code images is: An imaging unit that captures the code image from a data recording medium that is a pseudo code image for prohibiting the output of the information; and the encoded data is restored for each code image from the code image captured by the imaging unit. Restoring means, data completion means for collecting the respective encoded data restored by the restoring means to complete the original encoded data to be read, and original information from the encoded data completed by the data completion means. Reproduction output means for reproducing and outputting, code image determination means for determining whether the code image captured by the imaging means is the pseudo code image, The code image discriminating means is configured to prohibit the output of the original information when the code image picked up by the image pickup means is judged to be the pseudo code image. .

That is, according to the data reading device of the present invention,
In order to read n (n is an integer of 3 or more) code images which are formed by optically reading and recording optically readable data by image-encoding data obtained by encoding information, each code image can be read by manual scanning. A data recording medium arranged separately from each other, wherein encoded data to be read is a predetermined k of the n code images.
(N> k ≧ 2, where k is an integer) are divided and included, and at least one of the (nk) code images excluding the predetermined k code images is: Each code image of the data recording medium, which is a pseudo code image for prohibiting the output of the information, is captured by the image capturing unit. That is, the image capturing unit captures an image of the code image arbitrarily selected by the operator. The encoded data is restored for each code image from the captured code image, and the restored encoded data is collected to complete encoded data to be read. That is, encoded data divided and recorded into a plurality of code images in a data recording medium is collected, and encoded data to be read is completed. Then, the original information is reproduced and output from the encoded data. Here, the data reading apparatus has a code image determining unit, and determines whether or not the code image captured by the image capturing unit is a pseudo code image. At this time, when the determination means determines that the code image captured by the imaging means is a pseudo code image, the operation is performed so as not to output the information. That is, when the operator reads only the code image in which the encoded data to be read is divided and recorded, the original information is output. On the other hand, when the operator reads the code image including the pseudo code image, the original information is not output.

[0022]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. [First Embodiment] FIG. 1A shows a data recording medium 2 according to a first embodiment of the data recording medium of the present invention.
FIG. In the figure, the number of code images is 4
(N = 4), which corresponds to the case where the number of code images into which the encoded data to be read is divided is 3 (k = 3).
That is, the code image 2 that can be read by manual scanning and that is arranged separately from each other is stored in the data recording medium 200.
01 to 204 are recorded. To simplify the explanation,
It is assumed that four code images are recorded on the data recording medium 200, and each code image is composed of one block 301 to 304. in this way,
Although the code image will be described using an example in which each block is composed of one block 102, the present invention is not limited to this. As shown in FIG.
It is a matter of course that each code image may be created by using.

FIG. 1B is a block diagram of each block 30.
The structure of block data 401 to 404 relating to the data of the block recorded in 1 to 304 is shown. The block data of each block includes a block address (bl
k_address) and control data (CTL_
data) and a block header (blk_h)
header) and user data (usr_data).

The user data is data in which voice information, image information, text information, and the like are encoded and recorded. In the present embodiment, the user data is obtained by compressing voice information and performing error correction coding. After that, the data is interleaved, modulated, divided into a plurality of blocks, and recorded.

The block address is address information for identifying the block. The control data is data necessary for returning the original audio information from the encoded data divided and recorded into a plurality of blocks of user data. For example, the total number of blocks, the interleave length, and the parity length in the error correction code are Hit this.

As shown in FIG. 1B, the block 301 includes "1" as a block address, "CTL1" as control data, and audio information "A" encoded as user data. Is recorded as data "A1". Similarly, a block 303 records “2” as a block address, “CTL2” as control data, and data “A2” obtained by dividing audio information “A” encoded as user data. In block 304, “3” is used as a block address, and “CTL” is used as control data.
3 is recorded as data "A3" obtained by dividing the audio information "A" encoded as user data, and the encoded audio information "A" is stored in the block 30.
1, 303 and 304 are recorded.

The control data in this embodiment is configured to be completed only by combining "CTL1,""CTL2," and "CTL3."
The present invention is not limited to this, and the same control data can be recorded in each of “CTL1”, “CTL2”, and “CTL3”.

On the other hand, in the block 302, "1" is used as a block address and "CT" is used as control data.
L1 "is pseudo-user data that is data that prohibits output of the original audio information as user data.

Here, the block address and control data recorded in block 301 are stored in block 302.
Has the same contents as the block address and control data recorded in. Code image 20 in FIG.
The fact that the hatching of No. 2 is different from the others merely indicates that this code image is a pseudo code image, and it goes without saying that these code images are actually indistinguishable.

Next, FIG. 2A schematically shows the structure of data stored in a storage unit inside a reading device (not shown).
A process related to reading a code image will be described with reference to FIGS.

First, FIG. 2A shows a case where the blocks 301, 303, and 304 of FIG. 1A are read, that is, reading of a predetermined code image obtained by dividing encoded audio information. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a case where data restoration, that is, audio information output can be correctly performed.

That is, as shown on the left side of FIG. 2A, after the control data and the user data are extracted from the block data 401, 403, 404 of the read blocks 301, 303, 304, respectively, The blocks are stored in ascending order of the block address. In the control data area, the control data "CTL
1 "," CTL2 ", and" CTL3 "are sequentially stored.
In the user data area, user data “A1”,
“A2” and “A3” are sequentially stored. Then, as shown on the right side in FIG. 2A, the total number of blocks, the interleave length, and the parity length, which are restoration parameters, are obtained from the control data “CTL1”, “CTL2”, and “CTL3”. Thereafter, the user data “A1”, “A2”, “A2”,
“A3” is reproduced and output as original audio information “A”. The audio information “A” is output as audio by an audio output device such as a speaker (not shown).

On the other hand, FIG.
This indicates a case where data cannot be correctly restored by reading pseudo code images including pseudo user data, which is data that prohibits the output of the original audio information, when reading 303 and 304 is performed. Yes, the processing in this case will be described next.

That is, as shown on the left side of FIG. 2B, after the control data and the user data are extracted from the block data 402, 403, and 404 of the read blocks 302, 303, and 304, respectively, Stored in ascending order of block address. The control data area includes control data “CTL1”, “C
TL2 ”and“ CTL3 ”are sequentially stored in the user data area.
Then, the total number of blocks, the interleave length, and the parity length, which are restoration parameters, are obtained from the control data "CTL1", "CTL2", and "CTL3". , Try to output the original audio information using the total number of blocks, the interleave length, and the parity length.In this case, however, the encoded audio data is included because the divided audio information includes pseudo user data. Cannot be completed, so no audio is output.

[Second Embodiment] Next, FIG.
A data recording medium 210 according to a second embodiment of the data recording medium of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.
According to the second embodiment, pseudo-control data is included as a pseudo-code image including data prohibiting the output of the original information, so that even if the code image is read, the information can be correctly output. It is not to be. These figures correspond to the case where the number of code images is 4 (n = 4) and the number of code images obtained by dividing encoded data to be read is 3 (k = 3).

That is, as shown in FIG. 3A, four code images 211 to 214 readable by manual scanning are recorded on the data recording medium 210. These four
One code image has one block 311 to 31 each.
It consists of four. Here, the difference between the hatching of the code image 214 indicates that the code image 214 is a pseudo code image for the sake of explanation. FIG. 3 (B)
Are block data 411 to 41 relating to the block data recorded in the respective blocks 311 to 314.
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the structure of FIG. As shown in the drawing, a block 311 contains “1” as a block address, “CTL1” as control data, and data “A” obtained by dividing audio information “A” encoded as user data.
Similarly, a block 312 stores “2” as a block address, “CTL2” as control data, and data “A2” obtained by dividing audio information “A” encoded as user data. Is recorded,
In the block 313, “3” as a block address, “CTL3” as control data,
Data “A3” obtained by dividing audio information “A” encoded as user data is recorded. Thus, the encoded audio information “A” is transmitted to blocks 311, 312, 3
13 and recorded.

On the other hand, a block 314 is a pseudo code image including pseudo control data. That is, "3" is recorded as the block address, pseudo control data that is data that prohibits output of the original information is recorded as control data, and "A3" is recorded as user data. Here, block 313
Is the same information as the block address and the user data recorded in the block 314.

FIG. 3C shows the case where the blocks 311, 312 and 313 of FIG. 3A are read, that is, the information is obtained by reading a predetermined code image obtained by dividing the encoded audio information. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a case where the output of “1” can be performed correctly. This is the same as the case of FIG. 2A, and a description thereof will be omitted.

On the other hand, FIG. 3D shows the case where the blocks 311, 312 and 314 are read, that is,
FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a case where information cannot be correctly output by reading a pseudo code image including pseudo control data which is data for which output of the original information is prohibited. Hereinafter, processing in this case will be described. .

As shown on the left side of FIG. 3D, the block data 411,
After the control data and user data are extracted from 412 and 414, they are stored in ascending order of the block address. In this case, the control data area includes the control data “CTL1”, “CTL
2 and pseudo control data "CTL3 '" are sequentially stored, and user data "A1", "A2" and "A3" are sequentially stored in the user data area. The total number of blocks, the interleave length, and the parity length, which are the restoration parameters, are obtained by using the pseudo control data "CTL3" in the second embodiment. Therefore, since the restoration parameter cannot be obtained from the data “A” recorded in the user data area.
1 "," A2 ", and" A3 "cannot output the original voice information, and therefore cannot hear the voice.

[Third Embodiment] Next, FIG.
The data recording medium 220 according to the third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.
According to the third embodiment, even if a code image is read, information can be correctly output even if a code image is read by including a pseudo block address as a pseudo code image including data prohibiting output of the original information. It is not to be. These figures correspond to the case where the number of code images is 4 (n = 4) and the number of code images obtained by dividing encoded data to be read is 3 (k = 3).

That is, as shown in FIG. 4A, four code images 221 to 224 readable by manual scanning are recorded on the data recording medium 220. These four
One code image is one block 321 to 32 each.
It consists of four. Here, the reason why the hatching of the code image 224 is different is to explain that the code image 224 is a pseudo code image. FIG.
(B) shows the block data 42 relating to the block data recorded in each of the blocks 321 to 324.
It is a figure which shows the structure of 1-424. As shown in the figure,
The block 321 has “1” as the block address.
However, "CTL1" is recorded as control data, and data "A1" obtained by dividing audio information "A" encoded as user data is recorded. Similarly, block 322
"2" as a block address, "CTL2" as control data, and data "A2" obtained by dividing audio information "A" encoded as user data, are recorded in the block 323. "3" is used as the block address, and "CTL" is used as the control data.
3 "is recorded as data" A3 "obtained by dividing the coded audio information" A "as the user data.
1, 322 and 323 are recorded.

On the other hand, a block 324 is a pseudo code image including a pseudo block address.
More specifically, a pseudo block address “10”, which is data that prohibits the output of the original information, is recorded in a portion where “3” is to be recorded as the block address.
Control data and user data are stored in block 32
3, the same control data "CTL3" and user data "A3" are recorded.

FIG. 4C shows the case where the blocks 321, 322 and 323 of FIG. 4A are read, that is, by reading a predetermined code image obtained by dividing the encoded audio information. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a case where the output of “1” can be performed correctly. This is the same as the case of FIG. 2A, and a description thereof will be omitted.

On the other hand, FIG. 4D shows the case where the blocks 321, 322 and 324 are read, that is,
This figure shows a process when data cannot be correctly restored by reading a pseudo code image including a pseudo block address, which is data that prohibits the output of original information. Here, in this data reading device,
The block address is added by a serial number.

As shown on the left side in FIG. 4D, after the control data and the user data are extracted from the block data 421 and 422 of the blocks 321 and 322,
It is stored in a memory area (not shown) of the reading device. Here, since the block 324 having the block address “10” exceeds the total number of read blocks, it is determined to be a pseudo code image, and the block data is not stored in the memory. Therefore, “NULL” data is stored in the control data area and the user data area according to the block 424. That is, in the control data area, the control data “CTL1”, “CTL2”, “NU
Here, even if an attempt is made to obtain the total number of blocks, the interleave length, and the parity length as the restoration parameters using the control data, since the control data includes "NULL", the restoration is performed. Since the parameters cannot be obtained, the original speech information cannot be output because the restoration parameters are not obtained and the encoded data is not completed.
I can't hear audio.

[Fourth Embodiment] Next, FIG.
A data recording medium 230 according to a fourth embodiment of the data recording medium of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.
According to the fourth embodiment, even if a code image is read, information is output even if the code image is read by including a plurality of the same code image as a pseudo code image including data for preventing output of the original information. It is something that cannot be done correctly. These figures correspond to the case where the number of code images is 4 (n = 4) and the number of code images obtained by dividing encoded data to be read is 3 (k = 3).

That is, as shown in FIG. 5A, four code images 231 to 234 readable by manual scanning are recorded on the data recording medium 230. These four
One code image is composed of one block 331-33.
It consists of four.

FIG. 5B is a block diagram of each block 33.
4 is a diagram illustrating a structure of block data 431 to 434 relating to block data recorded in 1 to 334. FIG. As shown in these figures, the block 331 includes “1” as a block address, “CTL1” as control data, and data “A1” obtained by dividing audio information “A” encoded as user data. Be recorded.
Similarly, the block 332 includes “2” as a block address, “CTL2” as control data,
Data “A2” obtained by dividing audio information “A” encoded as user data is recorded.
3, data “A3” obtained by dividing “3” as a block address, “CTL3” as control data, and audio information “A” encoded as user data.
Is recorded. Thus, the encoded audio information "A" is divided into blocks 331, 332, 333,
Be recorded.

In the block 334, the block 333 is recorded as a pseudo code image.
Here, the block 334 is treated as a pseudo code image. However, since the block 333 and the block 334 are completely the same, the block 334 can be treated as a regular code image and the block 333 can be treated as a pseudo code image.

FIG. 5C shows the blocks 331, 332, 333 or 331, 332, 332 of FIG.
334 is a diagram illustrating a case where data is restored by reading a predetermined code image obtained by dividing encoded audio information, that is, a case where audio information can be correctly output. FIG. This is the same as the case of FIG. 2A, and a description thereof will be omitted.

On the other hand, FIG. 5D shows the case where the blocks 331, 333 and 334 are read, that is,
As a pseudo-code image containing data that prohibits the output of the original information, the same block is read multiple times, but the necessary blocks for decoding the encoded data are not read. It is a figure showing a process when it cannot perform correctly. In this case, since the block 332 has not been read, the block data of the block address “2”, that is, “CTL2” and “A2” are missing.

That is, as shown on the left side of FIG. 5D, the control data and the user data are sequentially stored for each block address.
Since the control data and the block data related to the data have not been read, the value is “NULL”. Here, even if an attempt is made to obtain the total number of blocks, the interleave length, and the parity length as the restoration parameters using the control data, these restoration parameters cannot be obtained because "NULL" data is included in the control data. . The original audio information cannot be output because the restoration parameter is not obtained and the encoded data is not completed. Therefore, the voice cannot be heard.

[Application Example] Next, an application example of the data recording medium of the present invention as described in the above embodiment will be described.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a first application example. When a code image below “ne” and “ko” corresponding to a correct hiragana is read by a reading device, a cat crys. This is applied to an application that outputs. The encoded data is divided into two code images below “ne” and “ko”, and the remaining code images are pseudo code images.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a second application example, and is an example of a voice code message in which a password is set. In this data recording medium, ten code images and numbers corresponding to the code images are printed and recorded.
The password is information separately sent from the code creator to the code reader. In this case, encoded data to be read is divided and recorded in the code images 1, 3, 4, 7, 9, and 10, and the remaining code images 2, 5, 6, and 8 are pseudo code images. By reading the six code images 1, 3, 4, 7, 9, and 10, the recorded voice can be reproduced and output.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a third application example, which is an example of an application relating to a collection of mathematical problems. The figure shows a problem that a prime number is selected from ten numbers written near each of ten code images. In this case, a sentence “the number of correct combinations is one in 1065” is also described. Here, 1065 types are the total number of combinations in which an arbitrary code is selected from 10 code images and read, and 10Ci (1 ≦ i ≦ 10) = 10C1 + 10C2 + 10
C3 + 10C4 + 10C5 + 10C6 + 10C7 + 10C8 + 10C
9 + 10C10 = 1065. Accordingly, the operator understands that the probability of obtaining an audio by reading an arbitrary code image is 1/1065, and unless the combination is a predetermined combination, the recorded original information (answer) is not output. Can be.

Here, the encoded data to be read are "2", "7", "23",
It is divided and included in the code image corresponding to “73”. These numbers "2", "7", "23", "73"
When you read the code image corresponding to, it is divided into those code images and recorded, "Correct. Sound information such as "Good job" is reproduced and output.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a fourth application example, which is an example of an application related to a social problem collection. The figure shows the problem of selecting a government-designated city from 10 Japanese city names written in the vicinity of each of the 10 code images, and the sentence "There are 5 correct answers" is also written. I have. Thus, the operator can know that the recorded voice information can be obtained by reading the code image of the predetermined five combinations.

Here, the encoded data to be read corresponds to "3. Sendai", "4. Kawasaki", "5. Hiroshima", "7. Sapporo", and "10. Nagoya" in FIG. Code images that are divided and included are code images other than these. With the reading device, these "3. Sendai", "4. Kawasaki", "5. Hiroshima",
When you read the code image corresponding to “7. Sapporo” and “10. Nagoya”, “It is correct. Sound information recorded as a code image such as "Done well" is reproduced and output.

In the above-described embodiment and application examples, the code image has been described as an example in which each code image is constituted by one block.
As shown in FIG. 4, it goes without saying that the code image may be composed of a plurality of blocks. Further, as shown in the figure, the number of blocks constituting each code image may be different as long as the block addresses of the blocks including the information to be recorded do not overlap. [Fifth Embodiment] Next, as a fifth embodiment of the present invention, an example of the data reading apparatus of the present invention will be described.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the structure of the image pickup unit 91, the scan conversion unit 92, and the block address extraction unit 93A.
And a block header extraction unit 93 comprising a control data extraction unit 93B, a code image discrimination unit 94, a data restoration unit 95, a restoration parameter calculation unit 96, and a data completion unit 9.
7 and a reproduction output unit 98.

The image capturing section 91 captures the code image printed and recorded on the data recording medium of the present invention as described above. The scan conversion unit 92 processes the captured code image for each block, and converts the code image into binary data corresponding to the presence or absence of the dot.

The block address extractor 93A extracts a block address from the binary data in the block header obtained by the scan converter 92. The obtained block address is sent to the code image discriminating unit 94, and it is discriminated whether or not this block address is a pseudo block. If the block address is a pseudo block address, the process is stopped here.

If the block address is correct, the control data is extracted by the control header extracting section 93B. The control data obtained here is
The control data is sent to the code image determining unit 94, and it is determined whether the control data is pseudo control data. If it is pseudo control data, the process is stopped here.

On the other hand, if the control data is correct, the data restoration unit 95 restores the data encoded for each code image. Restoration parameter calculator 96
Is obtained by calculating a restoration parameter from a plurality of control data read from a plurality of code images. The data completion unit 97 completes encoded data to be read from the encoded data for each code image restored by the data restoration unit 95. At this time, the restoration parameter calculation unit 9
The restoration parameters calculated in 6 can be used.
Then, the reproduction output unit 98 reproduces and outputs the reproduced coded data as audio based on the coded data.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart of a reading process in the data reading device. That is, first, a plurality of code image images are captured (Step S1), the captured plurality of code image images are binarized (Step S2), and blocks included in the code image are converted from the binarized images. Is extracted (step S3). Then, it is determined whether or not the extracted block address is a correct block address (step S4). If it is a pseudo block address, the process ends here without audio output. This corresponds to the case shown in FIG.

If the block address is correct, control data and user data are extracted from the binarized block data and stored in the storage unit in the order of the block addresses (step S5). Here, the storage unit is not specifically shown in FIG.
3. The data storage state in this case corresponds to the storage state shown on the left in each of (A) and (B) of FIG. 2, (C) and (D) of FIG. 3, and (C) and (D) of FIG. I do.

Next, control data is extracted from the data stored in the storage unit (not shown) (step S).
6), a restoration parameter is calculated based on the control data (step S7). Then, it is determined whether or not the restoration parameters have been correctly calculated (step S
8). If the restoration parameters have been correctly calculated, the process proceeds to the next process. 2 (A) and (B), FIG. 3 (C),
The case shown in FIG. 5C corresponds to this. On the other hand, when the restoration parameter is not correctly calculated, the process ends without outputting the sound. The processing shown in FIG. 3D and FIG. 5D corresponds to this.

If the restoration parameters have been correctly calculated, the user data of each block is collected to complete encoded data to be read (step S9). Then, it is determined whether or not the encoded data has been correctly completed (step S10). If completed correctly, the encoded data is processed and reproduced and output as audio. The cases shown in FIGS. 2A, 3C, 4C, and 5C correspond to this. On the other hand, if the encoded data cannot be completed, the process ends. This is the case shown in FIG.

Although the present invention has been described based on the embodiments, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and applications are possible within the scope of the present invention. . Here, the summary of the present invention is as follows.

(1) N code images (n is an integer of 3 or more), which are obtained by printing data obtained by encoding information in accordance with its contents and printing it optically readable, are respectively classified into each code image. In a data recording medium separated from each other so as to be read by manual scanning, encoded data to be read is a predetermined k (n> k ≧ 2, k is an integer) of the n code images. At least one of the (nk) code images, excluding the predetermined k codes, is a pseudo code image for inhibiting output of the information. A data recording medium characterized by the following.

This configuration corresponds to the first to fourth embodiments. FIGS. 1A to 5D are diagrams illustrating these embodiments. The data recording medium having the above-described configuration is composed of n (n is an integer of 3 or more) code images in which data obtained by encoding information is formed into an image in accordance with the content thereof and printed and recorded optically readable. Each code image is arranged separately from each other so that it can be read by manual scanning. That is, the reader can select reading / not reading for each code image. The coded data to be read is a predetermined k (n> k ≧ 2, k) of the n code images.
Is an integer), and at least one of the (nk) code images excluding k is a pseudo code for inhibiting the output of the information. It is an image. That is, when the reader reads the present data recording medium, the original information can be output by reading k code images including the encoded data from the n code images. On the other hand, in the case of reading a code image by a combination other than the k pieces including the pseudo code image, the recorded information cannot be output. That is, a reader who does not know the combination of the predetermined k code images cannot output the recorded information.

Here, when the password is not set, n =
k, and no pseudo code image for inhibiting the output of information is provided. In this case, it is possible to output the recorded information by reading all the predetermined code images.

As described above, in the data recording medium having the above configuration, when setting the password, the information is output only when the operator performs manual scanning according to a predetermined reading procedure, and when the password is not set, the information is output. , All output the information when the code image is read, and enable both cases with one common data structure (format).

For example, the present invention can be applied to a selection problem in a collection of problems in a language teaching material, and a use of setting a password in a voice code between friends. (2) A sentence indicating that the encoded data to be read is divided and contained in the predetermined k code images is further provided at a position near the n code images. The data recording medium according to the above (1).

This configuration corresponds to the first to fourth embodiments. FIG. 9 shows an example in which this configuration is applied. In this configuration, a sentence indicating that the encoded data to be read is divided into the predetermined k code images is further provided at a position near the n code images. is there. That is, the reader can know that the number of code images including data is k. Therefore, the reader reads the predetermined k code images based on the number information, the information provided by the code creator, the information written in the vicinity of the code, and the like, thereby reading the recorded data. Can be read. Even a reader who knows that the number of code images including such data is k cannot read recorded data unless the predetermined k code images are read.

(3) Each of the n code images is
A user data portion composed of a plurality of dots arranged corresponding to data to be recorded, and a read reference position of a dot of the user data portion arranged in a predetermined positional relationship with respect to the user data portion. A marker section, arranged at a predetermined positional relationship with respect to the marker section, a control data section for controlling data relating to the user data section, and an address section for identifying each code image; The encoded data to be read is divided into k pieces, each of which is included in each user data portion of the k code images, and data for inhibiting the output of the information is:
2. The data recording medium according to claim 1, wherein the data recording medium is included in any part of the pseudo code image.

This configuration corresponds to the first to fourth embodiments. FIGS. 1A to 5D are diagrams illustrating these embodiments. In the above configuration, the size of each of the n code images can be arbitrarily set. Thereby, regardless of the amount of information in the data recording medium, the size of the code images separately arranged from each other, the number n of the code images, or the number k of the divided recording of the data to be encoded can be freely set. Becomes possible. (4) The data recording medium according to (3), wherein data for prohibiting output of the information is included in the user data portion in the pseudo code image.

This configuration corresponds to the first embodiment. FIGS. 1A to 2B are diagrams for explaining this embodiment. In the data recording medium having the above configuration, the user data portion recorded in the pseudo code image is a pseudo user data portion that prohibits the output of the original information. That is, when the operator reads the pseudo code image, the user data portion recorded in the pseudo code image does not contribute to the completion of the encoded data to be read, so that the original information recorded as the code image Cannot be output.

(5) The data recording medium according to (3), wherein the data for inhibiting the output of the information is included in the control data portion in the pseudo code image.

This configuration corresponds to the second embodiment. FIGS. 3A to 3D are diagrams illustrating this embodiment. In the data recording medium having the above configuration, the control data portion recorded in the pseudo code image is a pseudo control data portion that prohibits the output of the original information. That is, when the operator reads this pseudo code image, the control data does not contribute to the output of information, so that the original information recorded as the code image cannot be output.

(6) The data recording medium according to (3), wherein data for inhibiting output of the information is included in the address portion in the pseudo code image.

This configuration corresponds to the third embodiment. FIGS. 4A to 4D are diagrams illustrating this embodiment. In the data recording medium having the above configuration, the address recorded in the pseudo code image is a pseudo address that inhibits the output of the original information. That is, when the operator reads the pseudo code image, a pseudo address for prohibiting the output of information is extracted from the pseudo code image. In this case, since the address is incorrect, the original information recorded as the code image cannot be output.

(7) The data recording medium according to (1), wherein the pseudo code image is the same code image as at least one of the k code images.

This configuration corresponds to the fourth embodiment. FIGS. 5A to 5D are diagrams illustrating this embodiment. In the data recording medium having the above configuration, the pseudo code image is the same code image as at least one of the k code images. That is, two or more code images having the same content exist for at least one or more code images in the n code images. When the operator reads at least the two code images having the same contents in the k code images read by the operator, the encoded data to be read is completed with k code images. At least one or more required code images will be missing. That is, in order to complete the encoded data to be read, a shortage of a predetermined number of data occurs, and the original information recorded as the code image cannot be output.

(8) The n (n is an integer of 3 or more) code images, which are obtained by printing the data obtained by encoding the information in accordance with the content and printing it optically readable, are divided into each code image. A data recording medium separated from each other so as to be read by manual scanning, wherein encoded data to be read is a predetermined k number (n> k ≧ 2, where k is an integer) of the n code images. ), And at least one of the (nk) code images excluding the predetermined k codes is a pseudo code for inhibiting output of the information. An imaging unit that captures the code image from a data recording medium that is an image; and the coded data for each code image from the code image captured by the imaging unit. Restoration means for restoring the encoded data, data completion means for collecting the respective encoded data restored by the restoration means to complete the original encoded data to be read, and original data from the encoded data completed by the data completion means. Reproduction output means for reproducing and outputting information; and code image discrimination means for discriminating whether or not the code image picked up by the image pickup means is the pseudo code image. A data reading device configured to prohibit output of the original information when the code image captured by the means is determined to be the pseudo code image.

This configuration corresponds to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 are diagrams illustrating this embodiment. This data reading apparatus converts n pieces of code images (n is an integer of 3 or more) printed and optically readable into an image in accordance with the content of the encoded data, by using each code image. A data recording medium separated from each other so as to be read by manual scanning, wherein encoded data to be read is a predetermined k number (n> k ≧ 2, where k is an integer) of the n code images. ), And at least one of the (nk) code images excluding the predetermined k codes is a pseudo code for inhibiting output of the information. Each code image of the data recording medium, which is an image, is captured by the image capturing unit. That is,
The image capturing unit captures an image of the code image arbitrarily selected by the operator. From the captured code image, the encoded data is restored for each code image,
The restored encoded data are collected to complete the original encoded data to be read. That is, encoded data divided and recorded into a plurality of code images in a data recording medium is collected, and encoded data to be read is completed. Then, the original information is reproduced and output from the encoded data. Here, the data reading apparatus has a code image determining unit, and determines whether or not the code image captured by the image capturing unit is a pseudo code image.
At this time, when the determination means determines that the code image captured by the imaging means is a pseudo code image, the operation is performed so as not to output the information. That is, when the operator reads only the code image in which the encoded data to be read is divided / recorded, the original information is output, while the operator reads the code image including the pseudo code image, The original information is not output.

(9) Each of the n code images is
A user data portion composed of a plurality of dots arranged corresponding to data to be recorded, and a read reference position of a dot of the user data portion arranged in a predetermined positional relationship with respect to the user data portion. A marker section, arranged at a predetermined positional relationship with respect to the marker section, a control data section for controlling data relating to the user data section, and an address section for identifying each code image; The encoded data to be read is divided into k pieces, each of which is included in each user data portion of the k code images, and data for inhibiting the output of the information is:
The data reading device according to (8), wherein the data reading device is included in any part of the pseudo code image.

This configuration corresponds to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 are diagrams illustrating this embodiment. The data recording medium to be read by the data reading device having the above configuration can be arbitrarily grounded for each of the n code images. Thus, regardless of the amount of information on the data recording medium, the size of the code images to be separately arranged from each other, the number n of the code images, or k for dividing and recording the data to be encoded.
Can be set freely.

(10) When the data for prohibiting the output of the information is included in the user data portion of the pseudo code image, the code image discriminating means performs the processing of the information included in the user data portion. (9) The data reading device according to the above (9), wherein data for inhibiting output of the data is detected and determined.

This configuration corresponds to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 are diagrams illustrating this embodiment. In the data reading device having the above configuration, when the user data portion includes data that prohibits the output of the information as a pseudo code image in the data recording medium, the code image determination unit detects the data. To determine. That is, when the operator reads the pseudo code image including the data for which the output of the information is prohibited in the user data portion, the original information is not output.

(11) When the data for prohibiting the output of the information is included in the control data portion of the pseudo code image, the code image discriminating means performs the processing of the information included in the control data portion. (9) The data reading device according to the above (9), wherein data for inhibiting output of the data is detected and determined.

This configuration corresponds to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 are diagrams illustrating this embodiment. In the data reading device having the above configuration, when the control data section includes, as the pseudo code image, data that prohibits the output of the information, in the data recording medium, the code image determining unit converts the data into a pseudo code image. Detect and determine. That is, when the operator reads a pseudo code image in which the control data portion includes data for prohibiting the output of information, the original information is not output.

(12) When the data for prohibiting the output of the information is included in the address portion of the pseudo code image, the code image determining means outputs the information included in the address portion. (9) The data reading device according to the above (9), wherein data for prohibiting the data reading is detected and determined.

This configuration corresponds to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 are diagrams illustrating this embodiment. In the data reading device having the above configuration, when the block address portion includes, as the pseudo code image, data that prohibits the output of the information in the data recording medium, the code image determination unit detects the data. To determine. That is, when the operator reads a pseudo code image in which the data prohibiting the output of information is included in the block address portion, the original information is not output.

[0097]

As described in detail above, according to the present invention,
A data recording medium that is compatible with a system for selectively providing information according to a code image reading method and a system for providing information in a normal reading method while sharing a data format. And a data reading device.

That is, the data recording medium of the present invention does not record the data relating to the procedure relating to the personal identification number in the code image, but uses the arrangement of the code image. Is low. In the data recording medium of the present invention, since the arrangement of the code image and the data recorded in the code image are irrelevant, even if the layout of the code image is changed in order to change the password, the data recorded on the code image is not changed. This is advantageous in that there is no need to change the data being read.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1A is a diagram showing a data recording medium as a first embodiment of a data recording medium of the present invention, and FIG.
FIG. 3A is a diagram showing a structure of block data relating to data of a block recorded in each block in FIG.

FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the data reading device that has read the data recording medium of the first embodiment;
FIG. 7B is a diagram illustrating a case where a block not including pseudo user data is read, and FIG. 8B is a diagram illustrating a case where a code image including pseudo user data is read.

FIG. 3A is a diagram showing a data recording medium according to a second embodiment of the data recording medium of the present invention, and FIG. 3B is a diagram showing data of blocks recorded in each block in FIG. FIG. 3C is a diagram showing the structure of such block data, FIG. 4C is a diagram for explaining the operation of the data reading device when a block that does not include pseudo control data is read, and FIG. 4D is a code image containing pseudo control data. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining an operation of the data reading device when reading is performed.

FIG. 4A is a diagram showing a data recording medium according to a third embodiment of the data recording medium of the present invention, and FIG. 4B is a diagram showing data of blocks recorded in each block in FIG. FIG. 4C is a diagram showing the structure of such block data, and FIG. 4C is a diagram for explaining the operation of the data reading device when a block that does not include a pseudo block address is read;
(D) is a diagram for explaining an operation of the data reading device when a code image including a pseudo block address is read.

FIG. 5A is a diagram showing a data recording medium as a fourth embodiment of the data recording medium of the present invention, and FIG. 5B is a diagram showing data of blocks recorded in each block in FIG. FIG. 2C is a diagram showing the structure of such block data, FIG. 2C is a diagram for explaining the operation of the data reading device when a code image that does not include the same block as a pseudo code image is read, and FIG. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining an operation of the data reading device when a code image including the same block as an image is read.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a first application example of the data recording medium of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a second application example of the data recording medium of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a third application example of the data recording medium of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a fourth application example of the data recording medium of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a modification of the data recording medium of the present invention in which a code image is composed of a plurality of blocks.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a data reading device according to the present invention as a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a flowchart for explaining a reading process in the data reading device of FIG. 11;

13A is a diagram illustrating a physical configuration of a code image to which the present invention is applied, FIG. 13B is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a block in FIG. 13A, and FIG. It is the figure which expanded and represented the block header part in the inside.

14A and 14B are diagrams for explaining a conventional method of setting a password, and FIG. 14A is a diagram illustrating a plurality of patterns A to A in which compressed audio information is encoded into binary digital data and recorded.
FIG. 4B is a diagram showing P, FIG. 4B is a diagram showing a data structure of audio data, and FIG. 4C is a diagram showing a structure of data recorded in five patterns.

[Explanation of symbols]

Reference Signs List 91 Image pickup unit 92 Scan conversion unit 93 Block header extraction unit 93A Block address extraction unit 93B Control data extraction unit 94 Code image discrimination unit 95 Data restoration unit 96 Restoration parameter calculation unit 97 Data completion unit 98 Reproduction output unit 200, 210, 220 , 230 Data recording media 201-204, 211-214, 221-224, 2
31-234, 241-244 Code image 301-304, 311-314, 321-324, 3
31-334 blocks 401-404, 411-414, 421-424, 4
31-434 block data

Claims (12)

[Claims] 1. Code-information data is converted into an image in accordance with its content, and n (n is an integer of 3 or more) code images printed and optically readable are manually recorded for each code image. In a data recording medium separated from each other so as to be read by scanning, encoded data to be read is a predetermined k (n> k ≧ 2, k is an integer) code of the n code images. At least one of the (nk) code images, excluding the predetermined k codes, is a pseudo code image for inhibiting output of the information. A data recording medium characterized by the above-mentioned. 2. The encoded data to be read,
2. The data recording medium according to claim 1, further comprising a sentence indicating that the predetermined code image is divided and included in the predetermined k code images, at a position near the n code images. 3. The method according to claim 1, wherein each of the n code images includes a user data portion including a plurality of dots arranged corresponding to data to be recorded, and a user data portion arranged in a predetermined positional relationship with respect to the user data portion. A marker section for determining a reference position for reading dots in the user data section; a control data section arranged in a predetermined positional relationship with respect to the marker section for controlling data relating to the user data section; An address part for identifying an image, wherein the encoded data to be read is divided into k pieces, each of which is included in each user data part of the k code images, and Data for prohibiting the output of the pseudo code is included in any part of the pseudo code image. Data recording medium according to Motomeko 1. 4. The data recording medium according to claim 3, wherein data for prohibiting the output of the information is included in the user data portion in the pseudo code image. 5. The data recording medium according to claim 3, wherein data for inhibiting the output of the information is included in the control data section in the pseudo code image. 6. The data recording medium according to claim 3, wherein data for inhibiting the output of the information is included in the address portion in the pseudo code image. 7. The code image according to claim 1, wherein the pseudo code image is the same code image as at least one of the k code images.
A data recording medium according to claim 1. 8. Code-information data is converted into an image in accordance with the content thereof, and n code images (n is an integer of 3 or more) printed and recorded optically readable are manually processed for each code image. A data recording medium separately arranged so as to be read by scanning, wherein encoded data to be read is a predetermined k number (n> k ≧ 2, k is an integer) of the n code images. And at least one of the (nk) code images excluding the predetermined k code images is a pseudo code image for inhibiting output of the information. Imaging means for capturing the code image from a data recording medium, and decoding the encoded data for each code image from the code image captured by the imaging means. A decoding unit that collects the encoded data restored by the restoration unit to complete the original encoded data to be read; and extracts original information from the encoded data completed by the data completion unit. A reproduction output unit that reproduces and outputs; and a code image determination unit that determines whether a code image captured by the imaging unit is the pseudo code image. A data reading device configured to prohibit output of the original information when it is determined that the captured code image is the pseudo code image. 9. Each of the n code images includes a user data portion including a plurality of dots arranged corresponding to data to be recorded, and a user data portion arranged in a predetermined positional relationship with respect to the user data portion. A marker section for determining a reference position for reading dots in the user data section; a control data section arranged in a predetermined positional relationship with respect to the marker section for controlling data relating to the user data section; An address part for identifying an image, wherein the encoded data to be read is divided into k pieces, each of which is included in each user data part of the k code images, and Data for prohibiting the output of the pseudo code image is included in any part of the pseudo code image. The data reading apparatus of claim 8. 10. When the data for prohibiting the output of the information is included in the user data portion in the pseudo code image, the code image determining means includes: The data reading device according to claim 9, wherein data for inhibiting output is detected and determined. 11. When the data for prohibiting the output of the information is included in the control data portion in the pseudo code image, the code image determining means is configured to output the information of the information included in the control data portion. The data reading device according to claim 9, wherein data for inhibiting output is detected and determined. 12. When the data for prohibiting the output of the information is included in the address portion of the pseudo code image, the code image determining means outputs the information included in the address portion. The data reading device according to claim 9, wherein data for prohibition is detected and determined.