JP2001307045A - Ic card - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an IC card with enhanced operability. SOLUTION: The IC card 10 is provided with plural photosensors S1 to S10. A deciding part 14 reports the control information corresponding to state patterns to be outputted by the photosensors S1 to S10, the lights of which are shielded by light shielding materials PA1 to PA4, PB1, to a control part 16. The control part 16 controls communication with the outside based on the control information given from the deciding part 14.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an IC card, and more particularly, to an IC card capable of inputting information.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art As a conventional IC card capable of inputting information, for example, as described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H11-195102, a user attaches a pressure-sensitive sensor to 2. Description of the Related Art There is known a device capable of inputting fingerprint information, handwritten information, sensor position information, and the like of a user by pressing a pressure-sensitive sensor arranged on a card with a rod-shaped device having a projection.

[0003]

However, since the IC card described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H11-195102 uses a pressure-sensitive sensor, it is necessary for the user to operate the IC card every time he or she uses it. However, there is a problem that the user has to repeatedly input the same information, resulting in poor operability.

An object of the present invention is to provide an IC card with improved operability.

[0005]

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides a control unit for controlling communication with the outside, a plurality of optical sensors, and the plurality of optical sensors shielded by a light shielding material. A determination unit that notifies the control unit of control information corresponding to the state pattern to be output, and the control unit controls communication with the outside based on the control information notified from the determination unit. Things. With such a configuration, the input from the optical sensor can be changed by the light shielding of the light shielding material, so that the operability is improved.

[0006]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The configuration of an IC card according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS. First, an IC according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
The system configuration of the card will be described. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a system configuration of an IC card according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

The IC card 10 includes a storage unit 12, a determination unit 14, a control unit 16, a communication unit 18, and ten optical sensors S1, S2,..., S10. IC card 1
Numeral 0 is formed of a general material such as plastic, in which a storage unit 12, a determination unit 14, a control unit 16, and a communication unit 18 are incorporated. Optical sensors S1, S2,..., S1
0 is also embedded in the IC card 10, but its light receiving portion is arranged so as to detect light from the outside.

[0008] The storage unit 12 is a nonvolatile memory element. The storage unit 12 stores the communication data 12D1, 12D2,
12D3 and control information 12C. The communication data 12D is authentication data and user data used by the application, and is used for normal IC card communication. The control information 12C is information for switching communication contents of the IC card 10 according to an input from the optical sensors S1 to S10.

The determination unit 14 is a circuit that compares the state patterns of the optical sensors S1 to S10 with the determination patterns included in the control information 12C in the storage unit 12, and notifies the control unit 16 of the determination result. The control unit 16 is a circuit that executes communication with the outside via the communication unit 18 based on the determination result of the determination unit 14.

The communication section 18 is a contact type or non-contact type communication interface. However, the communication unit 18 may have a plurality of different communication interfaces like a so-called hybrid IC card, and the control unit 16 issues a communication interface switching instruction, and performs communication by selecting an appropriate communication interface. You can also. In this case, the communication interface information to be used is stored in the control information 12C.
Is added for each judgment pattern, and the judgment unit 14
6 can be realized by notifying the communication interface information to be used. Similarly, the control unit 16 may have a plurality of different communication functions, for example, a plurality of different authentication procedures. This case can also be realized by including the control unit identification information to be used in the control information 12C, and instructing the operation only from the determination unit to an appropriate control unit.

The state of each of the optical sensors S1 to S10 is input to the determination unit 14 as a state pattern. Here, the number of the optical sensors S is described as ten, but the number is not limited to ten. For example, the optical sensors S1 to S10 are turned on and off depending on the illuminance of light when the light is irradiated and when the light is blocked.
This is an element for detecting binary of FF. However, the optical sensor S may be one that detects binary values by wavelength or one that detects three or more values by three or more wavelengths, and further detects three or more values by a combination of illuminance and wavelength. It may be something.

Next, referring to FIG.
The external configuration of the C card will be described. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an external configuration of the IC card according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

The short side of the IC card 10 is, for example, 5
It is a rectangular shape having a length of 4 mm and a long side of, for example, 85 mm. Optical sensors S1 to S10 are arranged on the IC card 10 as illustrated.

On the long side on the upper side of the IC card 10, four light shielding members PA1, PA2, PA3 and PA4 are attached so as to be rotatable in the direction of arrow A. Further, one light shielding material PB1 is attached to the lower long side so as to be rotatable in the direction of arrow B. Light shielding material PA1, PA2, PA3, P
The size of A4 is almost the same as the size of the IC card 10, but may be any size as long as it covers the ten optical sensors S1 to S10.

The light shielding members PA1 to PA4 and PB1 are light impermeable, but a part of the light shielding PA1 to PA4 is provided with a light transmitting portion TA. For example, light shielding materials PA1 to PA4,
When an opaque material such as paper or black plastic is used as the material of the PB1, the light transmitting portion TA is formed by providing an opening in a part thereof. When a light-transmitting material such as a transparent plastic is used as a material of the light-shielding materials PA1 to PA4 and PB1, the surface is printed with a light-impermeable material and the light-transmitting portion TA is printed. Due to the absence, a light transmitting portion TA is formed. The light transmitting portions TA provided in the light shielding members PA1 to PA4 are different for each of the light shielding members PA1 to PA4.
The details will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 to 6. For example, the light shielding material PA1 includes nine light transmitting portions TA1, TA2,
TA3, TA4, TA6, TA7, TA8, TA9, T
In contrast to having A10, the light blocking material PA2 has eight light transmitting portions. The light shielding material PB1 does not have a light transmitting portion. Therefore, the light shielding material P
The light receiving state of the optical sensors S1 to S10 differs depending on the light shielding state of the IC card 10 by A1 to PA4 and PB1, and the output signals of the optical sensors S1 to S10 become 10-bit digital signals. Judgment unit 1 shown in
4.

When the light shielding material PA1 is rotated in the direction of arrow A1,
When brought into close contact with the surface of the IC card 10, the light transmitting portions TA1, TA2, TA3, TA4, TA6, T
The optical sensors S1, S2, S3, S4, S6, S7, of the IC card 10 corresponding to A7, TA8, TA9, and TA10.
Steps S8, S9, and S10 can receive external light. When the light shielding material PA1 and the light shielding material PA2 are rotated in the direction of arrow A1 and brought into close contact with the surface of the IC card 10, both the light transmitting portion of the light shielding material PA1 and the light transmitting portion of the light shielding material PA2 are common. Optical sensor S of IC card 10 corresponding to the part
However, external light can be received. On the other hand, when the light shielding material PB1 is rotated in the direction of arrow B1 and brought into close contact with the surface of the IC card 10, the optical sensors S1 to S10 of the IC card 10
All are in a state where external light is blocked. Further, the four light shielding members PA1,...
After the light shielding member PB1 is rotated in the direction of arrow B1 after being brought into close contact with the surface of the C card 10, the optical sensors S1 to S10 of the IC card 10 are also brought into close contact with the surface of the IC card 10.
Are all in a state where external light is blocked.

Next, the light blocking state of the light blocking member of the IC card according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. Here, the IC card 10 integrates a plurality of IC card functions, and according to the light shielding state of the light shielding material,
It is assumed that a plurality of IC cards can be switched and used. For example, as a plurality of IC card functions, functions as credit cards of A credit company and B credit company, and debit cards (Debit Car
The function as d) will be described as an example.

First, the light blocking state of the light blocking member PA1 of the IC card according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram of a light shielding state of the IC card according to the first embodiment of the present invention using the light shielding material PA1.

FIG. 3 shows that the light shielding material P is placed on the IC card 10.
A1 shows a state where it is placed. The light shielding material PA1 is
Light transmitting parts TA1, TA2, TA3, TA4, TA6, T
A7, TA8, TA9, and TA10, and the optical sensors S1 and S1 of the IC card 10 corresponding to these light transmitting portions.
S2, S3, S4, S6, S7, S8, S9, S10
Can receive external light.

Here, for example, the light shielding material PA1 serves as an input plate for using the IC card 10 as a credit card for A credit. Printing is performed on the light shielding material PA1 so as to be clearly used as a credit card of A credit. And the sensor S
Light is input to 1, S2, S3, S4, and S6, and the sensor S5
When the light to is blocked, the determination unit 14 can determine that the user intends to use the credit card as an A credit card. Light transmitting parts TA7, TA8, TA9, TA10
Are provided corresponding to the optical sensors S7, S8, S9, S10, and these four optical sensors S7 to S10 are
In this state, light can be received. Here, four light transmitting portions T
By covering any of A7, TA8, TA9, and TA10 with a fingertip or the like, light input to the corresponding optical sensor S is shut off. For example, credit payment conditions are assigned to the optical sensors S7 to S10.
The payment conditions can be selectively inputted, such as collective payment, optical sensor S8 in two installments, optical sensor S9 in six installments, and optical sensor S10 as bonus payment.

Next, referring to FIG.
The light blocking state of the C card by the light blocking member PA2 will be described. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of a light shielding state of the IC card according to the first embodiment of the present invention with the light shielding material PA2.

FIG. 4 shows a light shielding material P on the IC card 10.
A1 is placed, and the light shielding material PA2 is further placed thereon. The light-shielding material PA2 is a light transmitting portion TA
1, TA2, TA3, TA4, TA7, TA8, TA
9, TA10, and the optical sensors S1, S2, S3, S4 of the IC card 10 corresponding to these light transmitting portions.
S7, S8, S9, S10 can receive external light.

Here, for example, the light shielding material PA2 serves as an input plate for using the IC card 10 as a credit card for B credits. On the light shielding material PA2, printing is performed so as to be clearly used as a credit card for B credit. And the sensor S
Light is input to 1, S2, S3 and S4, and the sensors S5 and S6
When the light is blocked, the determination unit 14 can determine that the credit card is going to be used as a B credit card. Light transmitting parts TA7, TA8, TA9, TA10
Are provided corresponding to the optical sensors S7, S8, S9, S10, and these four optical sensors S7 to S10 are
In this state, light can be received. Here, four light transmitting portions T
By covering any of A7, TA8, TA9, and TA10 with a fingertip or the like, light input to the corresponding optical sensor S is shut off. For example, credit payment conditions are assigned to the optical sensors S7 to S10.
The payment conditions can be selectively inputted, such as collective payment, optical sensor S8 in two installments, optical sensor S9 in six installments, and optical sensor S10 as bonus payment.

Next, referring to FIG.
The light shielding state of the C card by the light shielding material PA3 will be described. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of a light shielding state of the IC card according to the first embodiment of the present invention using the light shielding material PA3.

FIG. 5 shows that the light shielding material P is placed on the IC card 10.
A1 and PA2 are placed, and a light shielding material PA3 is further placed thereon. The light shielding material PA3 has light transmitting portions TA1, TA2, and TA3, and the light sensors S1, S2, and S3 of the IC card 10 corresponding to these light transmitting portions.
In step S3, external light can be received.

Here, for example, the light-shielding material PA3 serves as an input plate for using the IC card 10 as a debit card of Bank C. On the light-blocking material PA3, printing is performed so as to be clearly used as a debit card of Bank C. When light is input to the sensors S1, S2, and S3 and light to the sensors S4, S5, and S6 is cut off, the determination unit 14 can determine that the card is to be used as a debit card of Bank C. Optical sensor S7,
S8, S9, and S10 are shielded from light by the light shielding material PA3, and these four optical sensors S7 to S10 are in a state where light is blocked, and the optical sensors S7 to S10 are treated as not contributing to input. Will be

Next, with reference to FIG.
The light shielding state of the C card by the light shielding material PA4 will be described. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram of a light shielding state of the IC card according to the first embodiment of the present invention using the light shielding material PA4.

FIG. 6 shows that the light shielding material P is placed on the IC card 10.
A1, PA2, and PA3 are placed, and a light shielding material PA4 is further placed thereon. Light shielding material PA4
Has light transmitting portions TA1 and TA3, and the optical sensors S1 and S3 of the IC card 10 corresponding to these light transmitting portions.
Can receive external light.

Here, for example, the light shielding material PA4 becomes an input plate for using the IC card 10 as a debit card of Bank D. The light-shielding material PA4 is printed on the light-shielding material PA4 so as to be clearly used as a debit card of Bank D. Then, when light is input to the sensors S1 and S3 and the light to the sensors S2, S4, S5, and S6 is shut off, the determination unit 14 can determine that the card is to be used as a debit card of Bank D. Optical sensors S7, S
8, S9, and S10 are shielded from light by a light shielding material PA4. These four optical sensors S7 to S10 are in a state where light is blocked, and the optical sensors S7 to S10 are treated as not contributing to input. Will be

Next, referring to FIG.
The output patterns of the sensors S1 to S10 generated by the light shielding materials PA1 to PA4 of the C card will be described. FIG.
FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of output patterns of sensors S1 to S10 generated by light shielding materials PA1 to PA4 of the IC card according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

In the table shown in FIG. 7, the sensors S1 to S1
The output of 0 is indicated by four attributes “A”, “B”, “C”, and “D”. Here, the attribute “A” is a portion used for pattern determination and determined to be coincident when the outputs of the optical sensors S1 to S10 are ON. The attribute “B” is used for pattern determination, and is a portion that is determined to match when the optical sensors S1 to S10 are OFF. The attribute “C” is a part that is not used for determination but is used directly as input data. The attribute “D” is an unused part.

Here, the "pattern 1" is, for example, the output of the optical sensors S1 to S10 of the IC card 10 when the light shielding material PA1 shown in FIG. . That is, the optical sensors S1, S2, S3, S
4, the attribute of S6 is "A", that is, ON, the attribute of optical sensor S5 is "B", that is, OFF, and
This is the case where the attributes 7 to S10 are "C", that is, used as direct input data. “Pattern 2” refers to, for example, the optical sensors S1 to S1 of the IC card 10 when the light shielding material PA2 shown in FIG.
This is the case of 0 output. That is, the optical sensors S1, S2, S
3, the attribute of S4 is "A", that is, ON, the attribute of optical sensors S5, S6 is "B", that is, OFF, and the attribute of optical sensors S7 to S10 is "C", that is, direct input. This is the case when used as data. "Pattern 3"
For example, the light sensors S1 to S1 of the IC card 10 when the light shielding material PA3 shown in FIG.
This is the case of the output of S10. That is, the optical sensors S1, S
2, the attribute of S3 is "A", that is, ON, the attribute of optical sensors S4, S5, and S6 is "B", that is, OFF, and the attribute of optical sensors S7 to S10 is "D", that is, This is when it is unused. The “pattern 4” is, for example, the case of the output of the optical sensors S1 to S10 of the IC card 10 when the light shielding material PA4 shown in FIG. That is, the attributes of the optical sensors S1, S3 are "A", that is, ON, and the optical sensors S2, S4, S
5, the attribute of S6 is "B", that is, OFF, and the attribute of the optical sensors S7 to S10 is "D", that is, unused.

Further, these patterns 1 to 4
The control information 12C shown in FIG. 1 can be configured by providing the address information in correspondence with. The address information is a judgment pattern (pattern 1 to pattern 4)
Is the information indicating the storage position of the communication data 12D corresponding to the communication data 12D, and is a numerical value indicating the head address of the communication data 12D used for data communication with the outside. For example, the address information of pattern 3 is “2000”, which indicates that the address of the storage unit 12D used for communication is from address 2000. In addition, the positional relationship and the ratio of the optical sensors S1 to S10 having each attribute are arbitrary.

Next, referring to FIG.
The operation of the C card will be described. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the operation of the IC card according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

In step S100, the judgment unit 14
Performs an inconsistency process for transmitting the inconsistency information to the control unit 16 by setting the state of the IC card 10 to an inconsistency state as an initial state. The disagreement process determines that the state pattern given to the optical sensors S1 to S10 does not match any of the determination patterns stored in the control information 12C.
6 is a process of transmitting the information to the control unit 6.

The control unit 16 executes a communication process with an external reader / writer device via the communication unit 18 based on the determination result from the determination unit 14. When the discrepancy information is notified from the determination unit 14, a rejection is returned to a communication request transmitted from an external reader / writer device via the communication unit 18. By doing so, for example, the I shown in FIG.
By covering the surface of the C card 10 with the light shielding material PB1,
Since the light incidence on the optical sensors S1 to S10 of the IC card 10 is cut off, and does not match any of the patterns 1 to 4 shown in FIG. 7, the IC card is set to the non-communication state by the user's intention. Can be stored. Therefore, it is possible to prevent an erroneous input or the like while carrying the IC card.

In step S110, the judgment unit 14
Determines whether or not the state pattern of the optical sensors S1 to S10 matches any of the determination patterns and is continuously held for a specified time or more. Here, the reason for setting the prescribed time is to prevent the instantaneously given pattern coincident with the determination pattern by accident for some reason, and to prevent the IC card from performing an operation unintended by the user. Then, only when the coincidence state is continuously detected for the specified time or longer, the process proceeds to step S120. Otherwise, the determination is repeated until the coincidence state is detected.

In step S120, the judgment unit 14
Indicates that the IC card 1
A process of transmitting address information and input data corresponding to the matched pattern to the control unit 16 is performed by setting 0 to the matching state.

When the matching information is notified from the judgment unit 14,
The control unit 16 sets this to a communicable state, and communicates with the outside based on the coincidence information. The coincidence information includes the address information of the storage unit 12, and accesses only the specified address. For example, when the pattern matches the pattern 3 shown in FIG. 7, the matching information including the address information “2000” is input to the control unit 16, and the control unit 16, as described in FIG. Controls the computer to operate as a debit card of Bank C, and executes a communication process with an external reader / writer device via the communication unit 18. When the pattern matches the pattern 1 shown in FIG. 7, the matching information including the information of the ON optical sensor among the optical sensors S7 to S10 having the address information “0000” and the attribute “C” is obtained. Is input to the control unit 16, and the control unit 16, as described in FIG.
Is controlled to operate as a credit card of A credit, and the input data of the attribute “C” can be transmitted to an external reader / writer device as a part of the data. By doing so, communication using arbitrary data input by the user becomes possible.

In step S130, the judgment unit 14
Determines whether there has been a change in the state pattern of the optical sensors S1 to S10, and if there has been a change, shifts to step S100 in order to release the coincidence state and set a non-coincidence state. When there is no change in the state pattern of the optical sensors S1 to S10, the matching state is maintained, and the optical sensors S1 to S10 are maintained.
The determination is repeated until the state pattern changes.

As described above, the optical sensors S1 to S10
, The IC card 10 can operate by selecting a plurality of functions (for example, two credit cards and two debit cards). The switching of the selection of a plurality of functions is performed by the light shielding materials PA1 to PA shown in FIG.
4 can be performed, so that even when the user needs to repeatedly input frequently, such as when selecting a plurality of functions, it is possible to eliminate the troublesome input and improve operability.

In the above description, the four light shielding members PA1, PA2, PA3,
Although the PA 4 is attached so as to be rotatable in the direction of arrow A, the light shielding members PA1, PA2, PA
3, PA4 does not need to be attached to the IC card 10, but may be any as long as it can be mounted on the optical sensors S1 to S10 of the IC card 10 using an independent light shielding material.

The light-blocking material PB1 having no light transmitting portion does not need to be attached to the IC card 10. For example, the entire surface of the IC card such as a user's wallet or an IC card case is shielded from light. It is also possible to substitute by another means, and erroneous operation and erroneous recognition can be reliably prevented.

In the above description, the IC card 10
Is designed to be used as an IC card with two different functions, a credit card and a debit card.
Other functions can be switched and used. For example,
In addition to credit cards and debit cards, you can switch and use the function as a boarding pass,
The function as an entry / exit card can be switched and used.

Further, even cards having the same card function can be selectively used according to the user's will. That is, a plurality of credit cards can be switched and used, a plurality of debit cards can be used by switching a bank account of a debit destination, a plurality of IC medical record cards can be switched and used for each hospital or department, When used in an unmanned vending machine as a prepaid card or electronic money, information such as quantity can be input.

Further, the same card can be shared and used by a plurality of persons. In other words, when a taxi ticket or bus card is used by multiple people,
Since each individual possesses a dedicated light-shielding material, the IC card itself is common, but the user can also use the IC card in a specific manner by shading the IC card with the light-shielding material.

Also, in orienteering at an amusement park, etc., the IC card according to the present embodiment is distributed to the participants. It is also possible to use the goal reader / writer for counting the number of times a checkpoint has been passed.

The control information 12C shown in FIG. 1 can be rewritten from outside. For example, a utility function for changing a card function is added to a reader / writer device, and a user is provided with an IC according to the present embodiment.
After the card is set, the control information can be rewritten by this utility function. For example,
What can be used only for A credits can also be used for B credits. Also, when a card is shared and used by a plurality of people, usable members can be added or deleted. Further, the data input method may be changed. For example, in an application for inputting an amount, it is possible to change the unit of the pattern for simplifying the operation from a unit of 100 yen to a unit of 500 yen.

The control information can be changed by the card provider. In this case, the provider can make the card collected from the user reusable by rewriting the contents.

In step S100 in FIG. 8,
At the time of mismatch, no operation is performed, but at the time of mismatch, only limited information may be communicated. For example, from the viewpoint of security, in a conventional IC card, when a malicious third party illegally uses the reader / writer device, there is no means for preventing the illegal use. In particular, in the case of an IC card that operates by being supplied with antenna power, such as a non-contact type, especially a long-distance type IC card, if the reader / writer device is illegally used due to crowding, all the IC cards within the communication range operate. Therefore, information leakage due to unauthorized access cannot be avoided. On the other hand, in the IC card of the present embodiment, when there is a mismatch in step S100, it is possible to deal with unauthorized access and secure security in the following manner. For example, 1) at the time of a mismatch, a response that explicitly rejects communication is returned. 2) Only reading is possible, but writing requests are rejected. further,
3) Deny access to predetermined data for each application.

In the case of a mismatch, standard data can be used. For example, in an IC card shared by a plurality of persons (for example, a card used in a copier), the user is usually used with a light-shielding material, but when there is a mismatch, information such as an organization name or "unknown" is used. Is recorded in the IC card.

Although the processing at the time of mismatch has been described, these operations may be performed not only at the time of mismatch but also at the time of matching with a predetermined pattern.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the operability is improved by operating the plurality of optical sensors in accordance with the input from the optical sensors by shielding the light using the light shielding material. Will do.

Next, the configuration of an IC card according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. The system configuration of the IC card according to the present embodiment is the same as that shown in FIG. First, referring to FIG.
The external configuration of the IC card according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing an external configuration of an IC card according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

The IC card 10 includes optical sensors S1 to S1.
0 are arranged as shown. On the long side on the upper side of the IC card 10, two light shielding materials PA10 and PA11 are provided.
It is attached so as to be rotatable in the direction of arrow A. Further, two light blocking members PB10 and PB11 are attached to the lower long side so as to be rotatable in the arrow B direction. Light shielding material PA
The size of 1, PA2 is a size that covers the six optical sensors S1 to S6.

Light shielding materials PA10, PA11, PB10, P
B11 is light-impermeable, but light shielding materials PA10, PA10
11, a part of the PB 10 is provided with light transmitting portions TA and TB. The light transmitting portions TA and TB provided on the light shielding members PA10, PA11, and PB10 are respectively provided with the light shielding members PA10, PA1.
1, different for each PB10. See Figure 1 for details.
14 will be described with reference to FIG.
Has four light transmitting portions TA2, TA3, TA4, and TA5, whereas the light shielding material PB10 has four light transmitting portions TB1, TB2, TB5, and TB6. The light shielding material PB11 does not have a light transmitting portion. Therefore, the light shielding materials PA10, PA11, PB1
0, the light receiving state of the optical sensors S1 to S6 differs depending on the light blocking state of the IC card 10 by the PB 11, and the output signals of the optical sensors S1 to S10 become 10-bit digital signals, as shown in FIG. This is taken into the judging section 14.

Next, the light shielding state of the IC card according to the present embodiment by the light shielding material will be described with reference to FIGS. Here, it is assumed that the IC card 10 integrates a plurality of IC card functions, and can be switched and used as a plurality of IC cards according to the light shielding state of the light shielding material. For example, as a plurality of IC card functions, a function as a credit card of a plurality of credit companies will be described as an example.

First, the light blocking state of the light blocking member PA10 of the IC card according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 10 is a block diagram of an I / O according to the second embodiment of the present invention.
It is explanatory drawing of the light shielding state by the light shielding material PA10 of C card.

FIG. 10 shows a state in which the light shielding material PA10 is placed on the IC card 10. Light shielding material PA1
0 has light transmitting portions TA2, TA3, TA4, and TA5, and the light sensors S2, S3, S4, and S5 of the IC card 10 and the light shielding material PA10 corresponding to these light transmitting portions.
The optical sensors S7, S8, S9, and S10 that are not blocked by light can receive external light.

Here, for example, the light shielding material PA10 is an IC
An input plate for using the card 10 as a credit card for A credit. And the sensors S2 and S
When light is input to 3, S4, and S5 and light to the sensors S1 and S6 is blocked, the determination unit 14 can determine that the card is to be used as an A credit card. The optical sensors S7, S8, S9, S10 are in a state capable of receiving light. Here, four light transmitting portions TA7, TA
By covering any of 8, TA9, and TA10 with a fingertip or the like, light input to the corresponding optical sensor S is blocked.
For example, credit payment conditions are assigned to the optical sensors S7 to S10, such that the optical sensor S7 is paid in a lump sum, the optical sensor S8 is paid in two installments, the optical sensor S9 is paid in six installments, and the optical sensor S10 is paid in a bonus. And payment terms can be selectively input.

Next, the light blocking state of the light blocking member PB10 of the IC card according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 11 shows an IC according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of a light-shielding state of a card with a light-shielding material PB10.

FIG. 11 shows a state in which the light shielding material PB10 is placed on the IC card 10. The right side of the IC card 10 is the same as that in FIG. The light-shielding material PB10 is a light-transmitting portion TB1,
TB2, TB5, and TB6, and the optical sensors S1, S2, and S of the IC card 10 corresponding to these light transmitting portions.
5, S6 and optical sensor S not blocked by light-blocking material PA10
7, S8, S9, and S10 can receive external light.

Here, for example, the light shielding material PB10 is
An input plate for using the card 10 as a credit card for B credit. Then, the sensors S1, S
When light is input to 2, S5, and S6 and light to the sensors S3 and S4 is cut off, the determination unit 14 can determine that a credit card of B credit is going to be used. The light transmitting portions TA7, TA8, TA9, TA10 are provided corresponding to the optical sensors S7, S8, S9, S10, and these four optical sensors S7 to S10 are in a state capable of receiving light. Here, four light transmitting portions TA7,
By covering any of TA8, TA9, and TA10 with a fingertip or the like, light input to the corresponding optical sensor S is blocked. For example, credit payment conditions are assigned to the optical sensors S7 to S10, such that the optical sensor S7 is paid in a lump sum, the optical sensor S8 is paid in two installments, the optical sensor S9 is paid in six installments, and the optical sensor S10 is paid in a bonus. And payment terms can be selectively input.

Next, the light blocking state of the light blocking member PA11 of the IC card according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 12 shows an IC according to the second embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of a light-shielding state of a card with a light-shielding material PA11.

FIG. 12 shows a state in which the light shielding material PA10 is placed on the IC card 10, and the light shielding material PA11 is further placed thereon. The right side of the IC card 10 is the same as that in FIG. The light-shielding material PA11 is formed of a light transmitting portion TA2, TA3, T
A4, and the light sensors S2, S3, S4 and the light shielding material PA1 of the IC card 10 corresponding to these light transmitting portions.
The optical sensors S7, S8, S9, S10 that are not blocked by 0
External light can be received.

Here, for example, the light shielding material PA11 is an IC
An input plate for using the card 10 as a credit card for C credit. And the sensors S2 and S
When light is input to the sensors S3 and S4 and the light to the sensors S1, S5 and S6 is shut off, the determination unit 14 can determine that the card is to be used as a C credit card.

Next, the light blocking state of the light blocking member PB10 of the IC card according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 13 shows an IC according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of a light-shielding state of a card with a light-shielding material PB10.

FIG. 13 shows a state in which the light shielding material PA10 is placed on the IC card 10, and the light shielding material PB10 is further placed thereon. The right side of the IC card 10 is the same as that in FIG. As shown in FIG. 11, the light shielding material PB10 has light transmitting portions TA1, TA2, TA5, and TA6.
The light sensor S of the IC card 10 corresponding to the light transmitting portions TA2 and TA5 is provided by interposing the light shielding material PA10 between them.
2, S5 and the optical sensor S not blocked by the light shielding material PB10
7, S8, S9, and S10 can receive external light.

Here, for example, by combining the light-shielding material PA10 and the light-shielding material PB10, an input plate for using the IC card 10 as a credit card for D credit is provided. When the light is input to the sensors S2 and S5 and the light to the sensors S1, S3, S4 and S6 is shut off, the determination unit 14 can determine that the digital credit card is going to be used as a credit card.

Next, the light blocking state of the light blocking member PB10 of the IC card according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 14 shows an IC according to the second embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of a light-shielding state of a card with a light-shielding material PB10.

FIG. 14 shows a state in which the light shielding material PA10 and the light shielding material PA11 are placed on the IC card 10, and the light shielding material PB10 is further placed thereon. In addition,
The right side of the IC card 10 is the same as that in FIG. 10 and is not shown. As shown in FIG. 11, the light-shielding material PB10 is a light-transmitting portion TA1, TA2, TA5, TA
6, the light sensors PA10 and PA11 intervene therebetween, so that the light sensors S7 and S8 of the IC card 10 corresponding to the light transmitting portion TA2 and the light sensors S7 and S8 which are not blocked by the light shield PB10. In steps S9 and S10, external light can be received.

Here, for example, by combining the light-shielding material PA10 and the light-shielding material PB10, an input plate for using the IC card 10 as a credit card for E-credit is provided. Then, when light is input to the sensor S2 and light to the sensors S1, S2, S3, S4, and S6 is shut off, the determination unit 14 can determine that the sensor S2 is going to be used as a credit card of E credit.

As described above, in this embodiment, 3
By combining the light shielding materials PA10, PA11, and PB10, one IC card 10 can have five types of functions. In addition, the light shielding material PB11 is the optical sensor S1.
To S6 are shielded from light to generate a mismatched state in step S100 in FIG.

As described above, according to this embodiment, the operability is improved, and the number of generated patterns can be increased by the combination of the light shielding members.

Next, the configuration of the IC card according to the third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. The system configuration of the IC card according to the present embodiment is as follows.
It is similar to that shown in FIG. First, the external configuration of the IC card according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 15 shows an IC according to the third embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an external configuration of the card.

The IC card 10 has optical sensors S1 to S1
0 are arranged as shown. That is, the optical sensors S <b> 1 to S <b> 6 are arranged centrally in the IC card 10 in two rows and three columns. Optical sensors S7 to S10 are arranged at four corners of the IC card 10, respectively.

The light-shielding material PA20 is an adhesive light-shielding seal, and gives a state pattern by sticking to the IC card 10. For example, the light-shielding material PA20 shields the optical sensors S2, S4, S5, and S6 from light, so that the pattern 4 shown in FIG. 7 can be generated. The optical sensors S7 to S1 arranged at the four corners
By pressing 0 with a finger or the like, data input can be performed similarly to the optical sensors S7 to S10 described in FIG.

The adhesive light-shielding material PA20 can be re-attached, and can be freely attached and detached by the user. In addition, even if the light-shielding material has the same shape, the pattern is changed depending on the position and orientation of the light-shielding material, and the control information 1
Different communication can be performed by the IC card by 2C.

Next, various examples of the light shielding material used in the IC card according to the present embodiment will be explained with reference to FIG. FIG. 16 is a plan view showing various examples of the light shielding material used for the IC card according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 (A) has a size capable of blocking only one optical sensor, for example, as shown in FIG.
The pattern 1 shown in FIG. 7 can be generated by sticking on the optical sensor S5 shown in FIG.

FIG. 16 (B) has a size capable of simultaneously blocking two optical sensors, for example, as shown in FIG.
By pasting on the optical sensors S5 and S6 shown in FIG. 5, the pattern 2 shown in FIG. 7 can be generated.

FIG. 16C has a size that can simultaneously shield three optical sensors, for example.
By pasting on the optical sensors S4, S5, and S6 shown in FIG. 5, the pattern 3 shown in FIG. 7 can be generated.

FIG. 16D shows an example in which the four optical sensors shown in FIG. 15 can be shielded simultaneously, and for example, the pattern 4 shown in FIG. 7 can be generated.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, operability is improved.

Next, the configuration of an IC card according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. The system configuration of the IC card according to the present embodiment is the same as that shown in FIG. FIG. 17 is a perspective view showing an external configuration of an IC card according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

The IC card 10A has a circular shape, and optical sensors S1 to S10 are arranged on the outer peripheral side in the circumferential direction as shown. That is, the optical sensors S1 to S
Reference numeral 6 is arranged in the order of the optical sensors S1, S3, S2, S4, S6, and S5. The optical sensors S7 to S10 are
The optical sensors S7 and S6 are located at positions away from the optical sensors S1 to S6 and on the outer peripheral side of the optical sensors S1 to S6.
8, S9, and S10 are arranged in this order.

The light shielding material PA30 has a circular shape,
A notch PA32 is provided in a part thereof. Shading material P
The radius of A30 is larger than the radius position where the optical sensors S1 to S6 are arranged, and can shield the optical sensors S1 to S6. On the other hand, the light shielding material PA30 is
~ S10 is not shaded. Light shielding material PA
Reference numeral 30 is attached to the IC card 10A so as to be rotatable in the direction of arrow C.

In the state shown in the figure (the position P4 where the section PA32E of the cutout PA32 is between the optical sensor S3 and the optical sensor S2), the light shielding material PA40 is connected to the optical sensors S1 and S3.
Are ready to receive light, and the optical sensors S2, S4, S5
S6 is shielded from light. Thus, the pattern 4 shown in FIG. 7 can be generated. Then, by pressing the optical sensors S7 to S10 with a finger or the like, data input can be performed in the same manner as the optical sensors S7 to S10 described in FIG.

Further, when the light shielding material PA40 is rotated in the direction of arrow C1, at a position P3 where the section PA32E of the cutout portion PA32 is located between the optical sensor S2 and the optical sensor S4, the light shielding material PA40 becomes the optical sensor S1, S2 and S3 are ready to receive light, and the light sensors S4, S5 and S6 are shielded from light. As a result, the pattern 3 shown in FIG. 7 can be generated.

Further, when the light shielding material PA40 is rotated in the direction of arrow D1, at the position P2 where the section PA32E of the notch PA32 is located between the optical sensor S4 and the optical sensor S6, the light shielding material PA40 is moved to the optical sensor S1, S2, S3, and S4 are in a state where light can be received, and the optical sensors S5 and S6 are shielded from light. As a result, the pattern 2 shown in FIG. 7 can be generated.

Further, when the light shielding material PA40 is rotated in the direction of arrow D1, at a position P1 where the section PA32E of the cutout portion PA32 is located between the optical sensor S6 and the optical sensor S5, the light shielding material PA40 becomes the optical sensor S1, S2, S3, S4, S6
Is in a state in which light can be received, and the light sensor S5 is shielded from light. Thus, the pattern 1 shown in FIG. 7 can be generated.

The IC card 10A itself may have a rectangular shape as shown in FIG. 2, and only the light shielding material PA30 may have a circular shape.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the operability is improved.

Next, the configuration of an IC card according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. The system configuration of the IC card according to the present embodiment is the same as that shown in FIG. FIG. 18 is a perspective view showing an external configuration of an IC card according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

The IC card 10B has a rectangular shape, and optical sensors S1 to S10 are arranged as shown.
That is, the optical sensors S1 to S6 are optical sensors S1, S3, S
2, S4, S6, and S5. Further, the optical sensors S7 to S10 are arranged in the order of the optical sensors S7, S8, S9, and S10 at positions separated from the optical sensors S1 to S6. The light blocking material PA40 is slidable on the IC card 10B, and is slidable in the direction of arrow D on the optical sensors S1 to S6.

The state shown in the figure (the position P4 where the right end of the light shielding material PA40 is between the optical sensor S3 and the optical sensor S2).
Then, the light shielding material PA30 is in a state where the optical sensors S1 and S3 can receive light, and the optical sensors S2, S4, S5, and S6 are
It is shaded. Thus, the pattern 4 shown in FIG. 7 can be generated. And the optical sensors S7 to S
By pressing 10 with a finger or the like, data input can be performed as in the case of the optical sensors S7 to S10 described in FIG.

Further, the light-shielding member PA30 is rotated in the direction of arrow D1 so that the right end of the light-shielding member PA40 is located at the position P3 between the optical sensors S2 and S4.
Is a state in which the optical sensors S1, S2, and S3 can receive light, and the optical sensors S4, S5, and S6 are shielded from light. As a result, the pattern 3 shown in FIG. 7 can be generated.

Further, the light-shielding member PA30 is rotated in the direction of arrow C1 so that the right end of the light-shielding member PA40 is
At the position P2 between the light sensor S6 and the light sensor PA3,
0 indicates that the optical sensors S1, S2, S3, and S4 can receive light, and the optical sensors S5 and S6 are shielded from light. As a result, the pattern 2 shown in FIG. 7 can be generated.

Further, the light-shielding member PA30 is rotated in the direction of arrow C1 so that the right end of the light-shielding member PA40 is connected to the optical sensor S6.
In the position P1 between the light sensor PA and the light sensor
Is a state in which the optical sensors S1, S2, S3, S4, and S6 can receive light, and the optical sensor S5 is shielded from light. Thus, the pattern 1 shown in FIG. 7 can be generated.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the operability is improved.

[0101]

According to the present invention, the operability of the IC card is improved.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a system configuration of an IC card according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an external configuration of the IC card according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram of a light blocking state of a light blocking material PA1 of the IC card according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of a light shielding state of the IC card according to the first embodiment of the present invention using a light shielding material PA2.

FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of a light shielding state of the IC card according to the first embodiment of the present invention using a light shielding material PA3.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram of a light blocking state of the light blocking member PA4 of the IC card according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 shows sensors S1 to S1 generated by light shielding members PA1 to PA4 of the IC card according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of an output pattern of 0.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an operation of the IC card according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing an external configuration of an IC card according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of a light shielding state of a light shielding material PA10 of an IC card according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram of a light shielding state of a light shielding material PB10 of an IC card according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram of a light shielding state of a light shielding material PA11 of an IC card according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram of a light shielding state of a light shielding material PB10 of an IC card according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram of a light shielding state of a light shielding material PB10 of an IC card according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing an external configuration of an IC card according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a plan view showing various examples of a light shielding material used for an IC card according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view showing an external configuration of an IC card according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view showing an external configuration of an IC card according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... IC card 12 ... Storage part 12C ... Control information 12D ... Communication data 14 ... Judgment part 16 ... Control part 18 ... Communication part PA, PB ... Light shielding material S1-S10 ... Optical sensor TA1-TA10 ... Light transmission part

Claims (3)

[Claims] A control unit for controlling communication with the outside, a plurality of optical sensors, and control information corresponding to a state pattern output by the plurality of optical sensors shielded by a light shielding material are notified to the control unit. A determination unit, wherein the control unit controls communication with the outside based on the control information notified from the determination unit.
card. 2. The IC card according to claim 1, wherein the determination unit notifies the control unit of mismatch information when the state pattern of the optical sensor does not match a previously stored determination pattern. An IC card, wherein the control unit does not execute any operation or communicates only limited information based on the mismatch information. 3. The IC card according to claim 1, wherein the light shielding material is formed integrally with the IC card main body, and the light shielding material is movable with respect to the IC card to thereby form the plurality of optical sensors. A plurality of state patterns generated by changing a light shielding state of the IC card.