JP2002197411A - Information reproducing system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an information producing system at a low cost. SOLUTION: The information producing system for optically reading optically readable code, reproduced from an information recording medium provided with a part, where information is recoded by the code and reproducing the information, is provided with an imaging device for imaging the code to output its image signal, a memory for storing the image signal outputted from the imaging device as image data and a data error correction part for correcting an error in data, when reproducing the information from the image data stored in the memory to output it. The imaging device and the memory are constituted on respective IC chips 18 and 20. Then, at least one of the IC chip 18, on which the imaging device is constituted and the IC chip 20 on which the memory is constituted, uses an element defective, with respect to the production of a semiconductor.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a so-called multimedia including audio information such as audio and music, video information obtained from cameras and video equipment, and digital code data obtained from personal computers and word processors. The present invention relates to an information reproducing system that optically reads the above code pattern from an information recording medium such as paper on which information is recorded as an optically readable two-dimensional code pattern and reproduces the original multimedia information.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, various media such as magnetic tapes and optical disks have been known as media for recording voice, music and the like. However, even if these media are made in large quantities, the unit price is somewhat expensive, and a large space is required for storage. Furthermore, if it is necessary to hand over the recorded audio medium to another person at a remote location, it takes time and effort to mail it or take it directly. There was also. In addition, the same applies to so-called multimedia information including video information obtained from cameras and video equipment and digital code data obtained from information processing equipment such as personal computers and word processors in addition to audio information. Was.

To cope with such a problem, Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. Hei 6-231466 discloses that multimedia information including at least one of audio information, video information, and digital code data can be transmitted by facsimile. In addition, a plurality of dots are two-dimensionally arranged as image information that can be copied in large quantities at low cost, that is, encoded information.
A system for recording on an information recording medium such as paper in the form of a dimensional code and a system for reproducing the same are disclosed.

In the information reproducing system disclosed in this publication, a reading unit for optically reading a two-dimensional code on an information recording medium is held by hand, and the recording medium is manually moved along the recorded code. The code is read by scanning.

[0005]

However, although the information reproducing system disclosed in the above publication discloses a basic configuration, it particularly mentions an approach to miniaturization and cost reduction in terms of mounting various components. It has not been.
For example, the reading unit has an optical system and an electric system, and their mounting is usually considered to be attached to the main body, respectively. Therefore, there is room for improvement in terms of size reduction and cost reduction.

Also, it is premised that a normal element, that is, an element which does not include a defect, is used as an image pickup element, a memory, and other elements. Was.

[0007] The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and an object of the present invention is to provide an information reproducing system that is reduced in size and price.

Further, according to the present invention, the main part of the reading unit for performing the manual scanning is unitized so that the reading unit can be used commonly for systems having various external shapes, thereby further reducing the number of parts and lowering the cost due to the effect of mass production. The purpose is also.

[0009]

In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, an information reproducing system according to the present invention comprises an information recording medium having a portion in which information is recorded in an optically readable code. 1. An information reproducing system for optically reading an image to reproduce the information, comprising: an image pickup device for picking up the code and outputting an image signal thereof; and a memory for storing the image signal output from the image pickup device as image data. And data error correction means for performing error correction of data when reproducing and outputting the information from the image data stored in the memory, wherein at least one of the image sensor and the memory is a semiconductor manufacturing method. It is an element having the above defect.

That is, according to the information reproducing system of the present invention, an image pickup device for picking up a code and outputting an image signal of the code, a memory for storing the image signal output from the image pickup device as image data, and the memory Data error correction means for performing error correction of data when reproducing and outputting the information from the image data stored in the image data, wherein at least one of these imaging elements and the memory has a defect in the semiconductor manufacturing method And

[0011] Accordingly, since each electric circuit function can include a defect while the system maintains a predetermined performance, component costs are reduced.

[0012]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1A is a diagram showing a configuration of a reading unit 10 used in an information reproducing system according to an embodiment of the present invention, which is recorded on a recording medium (not shown) by an operator by hand. It has a pen-like shape that can scan the obtained two-dimensional code.

In the pen-shaped casing 12, for example, an image processing section including an image sensor and an image memory is provided with a hybrid I / O.
It is housed as a C-shaped substrate unit SU. That is, as shown in FIG. 2B, a total of three chips, ie, an IC chip 18 including an image pickup device 16 such as a CCD and another IC chip 20 including an image memory and the like are mounted on a substrate 14. . Of course, according to the configuration of the system, a two-chip configuration or a one-chip configuration can be used as shown in FIGS.

Here, the substrate 14 is arranged along the longitudinal direction of the pen-shaped casing 12, and the incident light is incident on an image pickup device 16 provided on the substrate 14 with its image forming surface facing up. An optical system 22 is provided to reflect the incident light at a substantially right angle so as to form an image. That is, an optical system 22 for forming an image of a two-dimensional code scanned on the image sensor 16 on the IC chip 18 is provided integrally with the IC chip 18 including the image sensor 16. The optical system 22 is formed by integrally molding, for example, a synthetic resin material or glass into a shape bent at 90 ° as shown in FIG. 2A, and has an IC chip 18 including the image sensor 16 at one end. A concave portion 26 provided with a concave lens surface 24 for accommodating is formed, and an aspheric lens surface 28 is formed on the other end side. A reflecting surface 30 is provided at the bent portion bent by 90 °, and the curvature is determined so as to correct the aberration together with the two lens surfaces 24 and 28.

In this manner, in the pen-shaped configuration, the optical system 22 bends the optical axis from the pen axis to the direction perpendicular thereto, so that the longitudinal direction of the substrate 14 and the pen axis can be matched. Thus, the board 14 can be easily placed in a pen shape that is easy for the operator to handle.

The optical system 22 is attached by directly pressing or fitting the part of the mold of the optical system 22 to the substrate 14 on which the IC 18 including the image sensor 16 is attached. I have.

A ring-shaped illumination system 32 is press-fitted or fitted at a position near the aspheric lens surface 28 of the optical system 22. This is one in which the illumination light sources 34 such as LEDs are arranged on a circle at predetermined intervals.

The thickness of the pen-type housing 12 (height relative to the substrate 12) is substantially determined by the height of the optical system 22 integrally provided on the image sensor 16 from the mounting substrate 14. Will be done. That is, since the thickness of the housing 12 can be determined substantially uniquely by the height of the optical system 22, the mechanical design of the housing 12 becomes easy, and
Even if is a small or small-diameter exterior, it can be easily attached.

By unitizing in this manner, downsizing is possible and optical adjustment is not required.

That is, generally, in an optical system such as an optical (magnetic) disk, a plurality of optical elements are precisely adjusted to ensure the quality of a detection signal (sensitivity of a focus signal, S / N of a read signal, amplitude, etc.). There is a need to. For example, adjustment of an optical / detection element is necessary for adjustment of a focus position and adjustment of a detection light position on a detection detector. On the other hand, in the two-dimensional code, since the detection is performed by the image sensor 16, that is, the area sensor, the accuracy of the image position projected on the image sensor 16 is not required as much as that of the disk device. Also,
Regarding image distortion, high optical accuracy is not required if the detection algorithm after imaging is devised so as to eliminate the influence of the distortion.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, there is a background that it is easy to increase the density and reduce the cost as described above with respect to the mounting of the optical system.

Further, this unit is applied not only to the pen-shaped casing 12 but also to casings having various external shapes, for example, a general T-shaped hand-held scanner casing as shown in FIG. 2B. This makes it possible to reduce costs.

Further, it can be incorporated in a mouse well known as a pointing device as shown in FIG. That is, as shown in FIG. 3B, the reading unit 10 retains the function of the coordinate generating unit 40 including the ball 36 and the encoder 38 normally held by the mouse.
Is added, a single housing can perform both functions. However, in this case, the optical system 2
2 needs to be formed into a shape bent again by 90 °.

The two-dimensional code read by the reading unit 10 containing the image processing unit described above is subjected to data processing such as demodulation, which will be described in detail later, and is reproduced and output.

For example, as shown in FIG. 4A, an interface (IF) board or an IF card (for example, PCMC) connected to the reading unit 10 through a cable 42.
A data processing unit for demodulation and the like is formed in an IA standard card 44, and this is processed by a personal computer (or word processor, PDA, notebook computer, television, etc.).
The personal computer 46 is attached to an expansion slot 48 to display and output an image on a display of the personal computer 46, print out from a printer 50 connected to the personal computer 46, or output audio to a speaker connected to the personal computer 46. 52. In this case, the reading unit 10 is not connected to the IF board or the IF card 44 by the cable 42, but is transmitted wirelessly by infrared light or radio waves as shown in FIG. Is also good.

As shown in FIG. 5A, the personal computer 46 may be connected to an IF built in the personal computer 46 via a cable 42, and the personal computer 46 may perform data processing by software. Also in this case, as shown in FIG. 7B, it goes without saying that wireless transmission may be performed by infrared light, radio waves, or the like.

Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 6A, an independent processing unit 54 connected to the reading unit 10 by a cable 42A performs data processing.
2 may be connected to a built-in IF of the personal computer 46 by a cable 42B. Also in this case, as shown in FIG. 7B, it goes without saying that wireless transmission may be performed from the reading unit 10 to the processing unit 52 by infrared light, radio waves, or the like.

Also, instead of the personal computer 46, as shown in FIG. 7A, it is possible to reproduce and output images and sounds to a television receiver 58 by using a game device 56 with a built-in CPU. It is.

When only audio information containing no image is two-dimensionally coded, the configuration of the data processing unit is simplified, and as shown in FIG. The processing unit may be configured as a reading / processing unit 60 housed in a single housing, and a headphone 62 may be connected to the reading / processing unit 60 via a cable 42 to reproduce and output audio. Of course, as shown in (C) of the figure, the reading unit 10 and the processing unit 54 may be configured separately, and they may be connected by the transmission cable 42A or wirelessly by infrared light or radio waves. .

Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 8A, a low-power transmitter is built in the reading / processing unit 60 to transmit reproduced sound, and this is transmitted to a cassette tape recorder with a radio or a radio 66. , And output from the headphone 62 using an empty channel of the radio. As shown in FIG. 3B, a small processing unit 54 'having a size such that it can be put in a pocket is used as a processing unit, and audio wirelessly transmitted by infrared light or radio waves from the small processing unit 54' is used for small reception. A configuration in which the data is received by the unit 68 and output from the headphones 62 connected thereto, or as shown in FIG.
It may be connected to an external input terminal 72 of a music information reproducing device 70 for reproducing music information from a music information medium such as a CD, an MD, a cassette tape, or the like.

Further, as shown in FIG.
It is also possible to adopt a configuration in which reading and processing functions are provided in the pen-type casing 12 and the reading and processing unit 60 wirelessly transfers the reading and processing functions to the small receiving unit 68. In this case, the reading and processing unit 60 may demodulate up to analog sound and output it by radio waves or the like, or output digitally and perform D / A conversion on the small receiving unit 68 side. Also, as shown in FIG. 3B, the pen-shaped casing 12 is provided with reading and processing functions, demodulated to an analog audio signal, wirelessly transmitted by radio waves, and received by the receiving adapter 74 on the receiving side.
May be configured to output the received signal to the reproducing head of the cassette tape reproducer 66 'by magnetic coupling. That is, reproduction can be performed using the reproduction system of the cassette tape reproducer 66 '.

Next, the configuration of the reading unit 10 and the processing unit 54 described above will be described with reference to FIG. This figure is a block diagram of the information reproducing system shown in FIG. 17 in JP-A-6-231466.

That is, the information reproducing system includes a detecting unit 18 for reading a dot code from a sheet 182 on which a dot code 170 as a two-dimensional code is printed.
4. The scan conversion unit 18 that recognizes the image data supplied from the detection unit 184 as a dot code and performs normalization.
6. Binarization processing section 188 for converting multi-level data into binary, demodulation section 190, adjustment section 192 for adjusting a data string, data error correction section 194 for correcting a reading error and a data error during reproduction, and data The data separation unit 196 separates the data according to the attribute, a decompression unit for data compression processing according to each attribute, a display unit or a reproduction unit, or another input device.

In the detecting section 184, the illumination light source 3
The light source 198 corresponding to 4 illuminates the dot code 170 on the sheet 182, and the reflected light is converted into an image forming optical system 200 such as a lens corresponding to the optical system 22 and a spatial filter 202 for removing moire and the like. Through the image sensor 16
To convert light information corresponding to to an electric signal, for example, CC
D, CMD, etc., detected as an image signal by the imaging unit 204,
The signal is amplified by the preamplifier 206 and output. The light source 198, the imaging optical system 200, the spatial filter 202, the imaging unit 204, and the preamplifier 206 are configured in an external light shielding unit 208 for preventing disturbance to external light. The image signal amplified by the preamplifier 206 is A
The data is converted into digital information by the / D conversion unit 210 and supplied to the scan conversion unit 186 at the next stage.

The imaging unit 204 is controlled by an imaging unit control unit 212. For example, when an interline transfer type CCD is used as the imaging unit 204,
The imaging unit control unit 212 stores a V blank signal for vertical synchronization, an imaging device reset pulse signal for resetting information charges, and a two-dimensionally arranged charge transfer accumulation unit as control signals for the imaging unit 204. Charge transfer gate pulse signal for sending the transferred charges to a plurality of vertical shift registers, and a horizontal charge transfer CLK which is a transfer clock signal for a horizontal shift register for transferring charges in the horizontal direction and outputting the charges to the outside.
And a vertical charge transfer pulse signal for transferring the plurality of vertical shift register charges in the vertical direction and sending the signals to the horizontal shift register.

Then, the imaging section control section 212 gives a light emitting cell control pulse for setting the light emission timing of the light source 198 to the light source in accordance with this timing.

The scan conversion section 186 is a section for recognizing the image data supplied from the detection section 184 as a dot code and performing normalization. As a method, image data from the detection unit 184 is first stored in the image memory 214, read out therefrom once, and sent to the marker detection unit 216.
The marker detector 216 detects a marker for each block. Then, the data array direction detection unit 218 detects the rotation or tilt and the data array direction using the marker. The address control unit 220 reads out image data from the image memory 214 based on the result so as to correct the image data and supplies it to the interpolation circuit 222. At this time, lens aberration information is read from the memory 224 for correcting distortion of the lens in the imaging optical system 200 of the detection unit 184, and the lens is also corrected. Then, the interpolation circuit 222 performs an interpolation process on the image data to convert the image data into an original dot code pattern.

The output of the interpolation circuit 222 is output to the binarization processing unit 1
88. Basically, the dot code 170
Is a white and black pattern, that is, binary information, and is therefore binarized by the binarization processing unit 188. At this time, the threshold value determination circuit 226 adaptively performs binarization while determining the threshold value in consideration of the influence of disturbance, the influence of signal amplitude, and the like.

After the demodulation section 190 performs demodulation processing corresponding to the modulation performed at the time of recording, the data string adjustment section 1
Data is input to 92.

In the data string adjusting section 192, first, the block address of the two-dimensional block is detected by the block address detecting section 228, and then the block address error is detected and corrected by the block address error detecting / correcting section 230. Thereafter, the address control unit 232 stores the data in the data memory unit 234 in block units. By storing data in units of block addresses in this way, data can be stored without waste even when data is lost or entered halfway.

Thereafter, the data read from data memory unit 234 is subjected to error correction by data error correction unit 194. The output of the error correction unit 194 is branched into two, one of which is sent to a personal computer, a word processor, an electronic organizer, or the like via the I / F 236 as digital data. The other is supplied to a data separation unit 196, where images, handwritten characters and graphs, characters and line drawings,
Sound (2 for the sound as it is and for the voice synthesized)
Types).

The image corresponds to a natural image and is a multi-valued image. In this case, a decompression process corresponding to JPEG at the time of compression is performed by the decompression processing unit 238, and further, data that cannot be error-corrected is interpolated by the data interpolation circuit 240.

For binary image information such as handwritten characters and graphs, the decompression processing section 242 performs decompression processing on the compressed MR / MH / MMR and the like. Interpolation of data for which error correction is not possible is performed.

Characters and line drawings are converted to another display pattern via a PDL (page description language) processing unit 246. Note that, in this case, if the line drawing and the character are subjected to the code compression processing after being coded, they are subjected to decompression (Huffman, Jiblempel, etc.) processing by the corresponding decompression processing unit 248, and then PD
The data is supplied to the L processing unit 246.

The data interpolation circuits 240, 244 and P
The output of the DL processing unit 246 is
According to 0, the data is synthesized or selected, converted into an analog signal by the D / A converter 252, and displayed on a display device 254 such as a CRT (television monitor) or FMD (face mounted display). Note that the FMD is a spectacle-type monitor (handy monitor) for wearing on the face, and is effective, for example, for applications such as virtual reality or when viewing a large screen in a small place.

For audio information, the decompression processing unit 2
At 56, the decompression process for the ADPCM is performed, and further, at the data interpolation circuit 258, interpolation of data for which error correction cannot be performed is performed.

Alternatively, in the case of voice synthesis, the voice synthesis section 260 receives the voice synthesis code and actually synthesizes the voice from the code and outputs the synthesized voice. In this case, when the code itself is compressed, as in the case of the characters and line drawings, the decompression processing unit 262 performs decompression processing such as Huffman or Jibrempel, and then performs speech synthesis.

Further, for character information, the sentence recognizing unit 2
After the sentence is recognized at 71, the speech may be output as speech information by the speech synthesis unit 260.

The decompression processing section 262 can also be used as the decompression processing 248. In this case, according to the attribute of the data to be decompressed, the data is switched by the switches SW1 and SW2.
2 and SW3, the PDL processing unit 24
6, or input to the speech synthesizer 260.

Data interpolator 258 and speech synthesizer 26
The output of 0 is synthesized or selected by a synthesizing or switching circuit 264, converted into an analog signal by a D / A converter 266, and then output to a speaker 52, a headphone 62, or an audio output device 268 equivalent thereto.

Also, characters and line drawings are output directly from the data separation unit 196 to a page printer or plotter 270, and the characters or the like are printed on paper as word processing characters. It can be done.

Of course, the image can be printed not only by the CRT or FMD but also by a video printer or the like, and the image can be photographed.

Although the image memory 214 and the data memory section 234 are independently configured in a series, they may have a bus configuration or may be shared as a single memory.

In the information reproducing system having such a configuration, when the imaging element and the image memory are accommodated in the pen-shaped casing 12 as described above with reference to FIG. As the IC chip 18 having the image sensor 16 therein (in the case of a one-chip configuration) or as the other IC chip 20 (in the case of a configuration having two or more chips), the IC chip includes:
For example, the preamplifier 206,
An A / D conversion unit 210, an imaging unit control unit 212, a scan conversion unit 186, a binarization processing unit 188, and a threshold determination circuit 226 can be included. In other words, I
It can be converted to C.

Alternatively, up to the data error correction section 194 may be included as an IC chip. That is, the preamplifier 206 and the A / D conversion unit 21 in the detection unit 184
0, and the imaging unit control unit 212, the scan conversion unit 186, the binarization processing unit 188, and the threshold value determination circuit 226,
The demodulation unit 190, the data string adjustment unit 192, and the data error correction unit 194 are integrated into an IC.

Further, the IC chip can include a part for outputting data in a specific interface format. In this case, the data error correction unit 1
In addition to the configurations up to 94, for example, MIDI (Musical In
instrument Digital Interface) I / F2 for data output
36 is made into an IC.

Alternatively, in addition to the data error correction section 194, the IC chip may include an audio and video output section. That is, the preamplifier 206, the A / D conversion unit 210, and the imaging unit control unit 212 in the detection unit 184, the scan conversion unit 186, and the binarization processing unit 18
8, threshold value determination circuit 226, demodulation section 190, data string adjustment section 192, data error correction section 194, data separation section 1
96, expansion processing section 238, data interpolation circuit 240, expansion processing section 242, data interpolation circuit 244, PDL processing section 2
46, decompression processing unit 248, synthesis or switching circuit 25
0, a D / A conversion unit 252, an expansion processing unit 256, a data interpolation circuit 258, a voice synthesis unit 260, an expansion processing unit 262,
A sentence recognition unit 271, switches SW1, SW2, SW3,
Combining or switching circuit 264 and D / A converter 266
Into an IC.

By the way, conventionally, it is premised that a normal element, that is, an element which does not include a defect is used as an image pickup element, a memory, and other elements. That is, the defective part is checked in advance and extracted from the lot, or the address of the defective part is recorded in advance and the address is not used. The actual situation is that the image pickup element is sorted and discarded as a defective product depending on the number of defects and the degree of gathering.

However, in the present embodiment, the data projected or recorded on the defective portion is output from the data error correction unit 194.
Can be reconstructed into correct data by error detection / correction processing, and a burst-like defect is a data string adjusting unit 192 because data is interleaved.
Are dispersed in the de-interleave processing in, resulting in a random error, so that the image sensor 16 (imaging unit 204)
A defective element can be used for the image memory 214, the data memory unit 234, and the like. Therefore, by using a defective element, the cost can be reduced. Further, since the error detection / correction processing is performed, a trouble such as detecting a defect for each element or device and avoiding it can be eliminated. Become like

In addition to the image sensor and the memory, a simple logic error can be permitted in a portion before the data error correction section 194 unless the error is large.

On the other hand, when the imaging device and the image memory are accommodated in the pen-shaped casing 12 as described above with reference to FIG. When the IC is formed and the IC is selected, the IC can be selected based on another selection criterion. In other words, some parts may have considerable errors (defects), but some parts can only tolerate a little,
The criteria for selecting an IC, the criteria for selecting an IC corresponding to another part, and the criteria for selecting an IC corresponding to a further different part, such that there must be no error in a certain part, are described. By using different criteria, for a portion having a high defect tolerance,
The precision of C production can be reduced, the yield can be improved, and mass production can be performed at low cost.

Here, for example, as a grouping,
The following can be considered. That is, as the first circuit unit (the IC chip 18 having the imaging element), the imaging unit 20 is used.
4. The A / D conversion unit 210, the imaging unit control unit 212, the image memory 214, the interpolation circuit 222, the binarization processing unit 188, the threshold value determination circuit 226, the demodulation unit 190, and the data memory unit 234 are integrated into an IC. Marker section 216, data array direction detecting section 21 as a circuit section (IC chip 20)
8, the address control unit 220, the lens aberration distortion correction memory 224, the block address detection unit 228, the block address error detection and correction unit 230, and the address control unit 232 are integrated into an IC, and a third circuit unit (IC chip 20) The data string adjusting unit 192 is formed into an IC chip. In this case, the distribution of the occurrence of defects in the IC manufacturing apparatus is measured, and the first circuit unit is configured in a region where the defect occurrence rate is high, and the second circuit unit that requires reliability and accuracy is configured in a region where the defect occurrence ratio is low. I do. If a defect-free area in which the third circuit section can be formed can be secured, this third circuit section is also integrated with the second circuit section.

Alternatively, the imaging unit 204 and the image memory 21
4 may be configured as another circuit unit.

Here, an example of error distribution in such a case will be specifically described.

First, when only the image pickup device 16 has a defect, the following conditions are set (see FIG. 9B). Note that the block here refers to the above-mentioned Japanese Patent Laid-Open No.
It refers to a block including a marker and a data dot pattern arranged two-dimensionally, described in Japanese Patent No. 231466. However, the calculation of the error rate is roughly performed on the user data.

Image sensor 500 × 300 (= 150,000) pixels Block configuration 80 × 48 dots Image pickup range 4 (= 2 × 2) blocks / screen Medium defect rate 10 ^-4 bits Under such conditions, 1 dot On the other hand, the pixels of the image sensor 16 have a width of 500 / (80 × 2) = 3 and a height of 300 / (48 × 2) = 3, and nine pixels (cells) of the image sensor 16 correspond to dots. Therefore, if there is only one defect in the range of 3 × 3 pixels (if it is a random defect), there is no problem.

On the other hand, in the case of a continuous defect, for example, 2 × 2
If there is a pixel defect, dot detection becomes difficult.

Generally, the (byte) error rate is 10 ^-12
It is said that there is no problem in data recording / reproducing if it is on the order. Now, assuming that the data error correction unit 194 has an ability to correct 10 ⁻² to 10 ⁻¹² in the error detection / correction processing, it is sufficient if the bit error rate in dot detection is about 10 ^−3. .

Since the amount of data in one screen is 80 × 48 × 4 = 15360 (bits), 15360 × 10 ^-3 = 15 On the other hand, the defect of the medium itself is 15360 × 10 ^-4 = 1.5. That is, 15 × 1.5 = 13 (locations) of defects of 2 × 2 pixels in 150,000 pixels may be present. In this case, the defect rate is 13 × 4 / 150,000 = 3.5 × 10 ^-4 .

Next, a case where there is a defect in both the image sensor 16 and the image memory 214 will be described.

As described above, the error allowed from the image sensor 16 to the position before the data error correction unit 194 is 13 bits.

It is assumed that there are 10 errors in the image sensor 16 (the defect rate is 10 × 4 / 150,000 = 2.7 ×
^10-4 ).

As a result, since a 10-bit error has occurred, 3 bits are allocated to the image memory 214, and 3 bits / 15360 bits = 1.9 × 10 ^-4 . That is, imaging element: 2.7 × 10 ⁻⁴ memory: 1.9 × 10 ^{−4 The} image memory 214 is data before de-interleaving, so even if there is an adjacent defect. The effect is small because it is de-interleaved and dispersed. Also, since the probability that the scattered defects match the interleaving rules is low,
In any case, the probability of a burst error is low.

For example, in the reproduction of a general optical (magnetic) disk or the like, the relation between the sensor (servo cell and data read cell) and the track / data is fixed. On the other hand, the two-dimensional code to which the present embodiment is applied, on the other hand, scans the area sensor (reading unit) by hand, so that the relationship between the dots on the information recording medium and the reading cells is fixed. Not done. In other words, even if a defect cannot be read on the dot and read, it can be expected that the defect will not overlap with the dot by reading it again. That is, there is a high probability of being saved by retry. Therefore, even if the defect of the image sensor 16 or the image memory 214 is at the limit value in the above example, there is a possibility that the defect can be recovered by this retry, so that there is still a margin.

The image pickup device 16 and the image memory 21
In general, errors are distributed between the memory device 4 and the memory device because the yield is better (the number of defects is smaller) in the memory than in the image sensor. Of course, various situations may occur with respect to the yield due to the structure of the individual elements. In such a case, the number of allowable defects may be appropriately allocated so as to allow more defects to the one with a lower yield. .

Although the above error distribution is generally described as requiring an error rate of 10 ^-12 in the case of information recording and reproduction, this is the case of a device such as an auxiliary storage of a computer, and data reading is performed. Is a criterion for frequent and large data volumes. When the amount of data read by the apparatus during the use period is small, the error rate does not always have to be at the 10 ^-12 level, and even a lower error rate is sufficiently practical. For example, the file to be read is about 10 KB, and the number of times of reading is 10 ⁴ =
If it is about 10,000 times, the error rate is 10 ^-9 (=
If it is less than 1/100000 * 10 * 10 ³ ), no error occurs. The information reproducing system according to the embodiment is
Considering a case where a two-dimensional code is recorded in a picture book and used for a purpose such as reproducing sound of the picture, 1
0 ^-9 about the error rate is sufficient if it is guaranteed. Therefore, more defects can be allowed, and the cost can be further reduced.

The circuit configuration based on the IC is not limited to the above-described embodiment. For example, as shown in FIG. 12, the operation conversion unit, the data demodulation unit, and the The value conversion function is performed by using an image memory, CPU (DSP, RI
(SC chip) and can be made into an IC by simplifying the processing by software. Further, a part of the DSP processing may be integrated into an IC to increase the speed.

Although the present invention has been described based on one embodiment, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications and applications may be made within the scope of the present invention. It is possible.

Here, the gist of the present invention is summarized as follows.

(1) A multimedia information including at least one of audio information, video information, and digital code data is optically transferred from an information recording medium having a portion recorded with an optically readable code. Reading means for reading, processing means for processing a code read by the reading means to restore the original multimedia information, and output means for reproducing and outputting each information based on an output signal from the processing means In the information reproducing system, the reading means comprises: an imaging device that optically captures the code and outputs an image signal; and an optical unit that optically inputs the code to the imaging device.
An information reproducing system, wherein the image pickup device and the optical unit are provided integrally.

That is, the optical element and the image pickup element are integrated into a single component.

Therefore, by integrating them, the overall size can be reduced, the number of parts to be attached can be reduced, and the cost and adjustment cost can be reduced. Further, it can be used commonly for systems of various shapes.

(2) The information reproducing system according to (1), wherein the image pickup device integrally provided with the optical means and the processing means are provided on a common substrate.

That is, since the optical element, the imaging element, and the processing means are integrated and mounted on the same substrate, the main functions are realized by one component (substrate unit).

Therefore, the size reduction is realized by the integration, the number of parts to be mounted is reduced, and the cost and the adjustment cost can be reduced. In addition, adjustment / inspection can be performed by the unit, and there is no waste that a defect is found after the unit is assembled to the main body. Furthermore, since the main part is unitized, it can be used as a common part.

(3) The optical device according to (2), wherein the optical means integrally provided on the image pickup device is an integrally formed lens having at least an aspherical lens and an aberration correction mirror section. Information reproduction system.

That is, the optical element is integrally formed including the aspherical surface and the aberration correction reflection surface, and the high-performance optical function is made into a single component.

Therefore, since the aspherical surface and the aberration-correcting reflecting surface are used, the optical function corresponding to the configuration of the plurality of lenses and the reflecting components is made into a single component. This makes it possible to eliminate adjustment errors and reduce the number of parts to be attached, thereby improving optical performance and reducing costs and adjustment costs. In addition, the optical system can be inspected by itself, and there is no waste in finding a defect after assembling.

(4) The processing means includes a memory for storing an image signal output from the image sensor, and an integrated circuit for performing a process of restoring the multimedia information from the image signal. The memory and the integrated circuit are both semiconductor elements manufactured by a semiconductor manufacturing method, and at least one of the elements is an element having a defect in the semiconductor manufacturing method. Information reproduction system.

That is, each electric circuit is made into an IC so that it can contain a defect, and is integrated with the optical element.

Therefore, by making the processing circuit an IC, downsizing, cost reduction, and high reliability can be achieved. Also, by allowing defective parts, the yield at the parts level is increased, and the cost of the parts can be greatly reduced.

(5) The imaging device having the defect,
The memory and the integrated circuit have a defect rate according to the yield in each semiconductor manufacturing method, and set a permissible predetermined defect rate for each element, and select according to the set predetermined defect rate. The information reproducing system according to (4), wherein each of the obtained elements is used.

That is, a component selection standard is set for each element component.

Therefore, the allowable type and number of defects are set for each component, so that the sorting is performed without waste and the yield increases. The cost of parts can be further reduced.

(6) The predetermined defect rate is an integrated circuit,
The information reproducing system according to (5), further comprising a defect error correction unit that is selected so as to increase in order of the memory and the image sensor, and that further corrects an error caused by the defect.

That is, the criterion is made strict in the order of the image sensor, the memory, and the circuit. Further, error correction means is provided thereafter.

Therefore, the yield corresponds to one realistic yield situation, and the yield increases. Further, the cost of parts can be further reduced. Furthermore, by adding error correction, the influence of the defect up to that point can be eliminated.

(7) The information reproducing system according to (2), wherein the optical means further comprises an illuminating means.

That is, the optical system, the imaging system, the processing system, and the illumination means are integrated on the same substrate.

Therefore, by integrating the lighting device and the lighting means, the size can be reduced, the number of parts to be mounted can be reduced, and the cost and the adjustment cost can be reduced. In addition, adjustment and inspection can be performed by the unit including the lighting conditions, and there is no waste of assembling a defect after assembling it to the main body. Furthermore, since the main part is unitized, it can be used as a common part.

(8) The information reproducing system according to (2), wherein the outer shape of the reading means is a mouse type or a handheld scanner type.

That is, the external shape and dimensions are the same as those of a general device which can be manually operated at present.

Therefore, by making the external dimensions operable manually, the integration can be utilized. In addition, by adopting a general shape, it is possible to operate without a sense of incongruity.

(9) The information reproducing system according to (2), wherein the reading means integrally includes a coordinate generating means for generating coordinates.

That is, both functions of a pointing device such as a mouse and a code reading function are provided by a single device.

Therefore, when reproducing multimedia information, a flexible system can be provided if a user interface can be obtained via the CRT by the coordinate generator. If the operation unit is the same, the operation is simplified without switching.

(10) The reading means has a pen-like shape, and the substrate is arranged along the longitudinal direction of the reading means, and the optical means is placed on the substrate with its image forming surface facing up. The information reproducing system according to (2), further comprising: means for reflecting the incident light at a substantially right angle so that the incident light is imaged on the provided image sensor.

That is, the optical axis is bent in the pen shape from the axial direction of the pen to the direction perpendicular thereto. The longitudinal direction of the substrate coincides with the axial direction of the pen.

Therefore, the substrate can be easily accommodated in the easy-to-handle pen shape.

(11) The information according to (2), wherein the optical means provided integrally on the image sensor is an integrally formed lens having a concave lens surface on the image sensor side. Reproduction system.

That is, the shape of the mounting portion is simplified,
Optical problems (flares, positional accuracy) are less likely to occur.

(12) The method according to (11), wherein a part of the mold of the integrally molded lens is used as a mounting portion, and this is directly press-fitted or fitted to a substrate on which the image pickup device is mounted. Information reproduction system.

That is, problems such as troubles due to mounting, troubles such as time, flying, and disassembly and spread are eliminated, and assembling accuracy can be improved.

(13) The ring-shaped illumination unit is press-fitted or fitted on the object side of the optical means provided integrally on the image pickup device, as described in (2) above. Information reproduction system.

That is, even if the reading means is a small-sized or small-diameter exterior, the illumination can be easily attached.

(14) The height of the optical means integrally provided on the imaging device from the mounting substrate substantially determines the height of the reading means relative to the substrate. The information reproduction system according to 2).

That is, since the height of the reading means can be substantially uniquely determined by the height of the optical system, the mechanical design of the reading means becomes easy, and even if the reading means is a small-sized or small-diameter exterior, Be attached to.

(15) The optical means provided integrally on the image pickup device reflects the incident light from a reading opening provided on a mounting surface of the image pickup device with respect to the substrate at least once, and The information reproducing system according to the above (2), wherein an image is formed on an image sensor.

That is, assembling and maintenance can be easily performed by only one side (for example, the upper side). Further, the height of the optical system is reduced, and a mouse shape or the like can be adopted as the outer shape of the reading means.

(16) A multimedia information including at least one of audio information, video information, and digital code data is optically transferred from an information recording medium having a portion recorded with an optically readable code. Reading means for reading, processing means for processing the code read by the reading means to restore the original multimedia information, and output means for reproducing and outputting each information based on an output signal from the processing means An information reproducing system, wherein the reading means comprises: an imaging element for optically imaging the code and outputting an image signal; and an optical means for optically inputting the code to the imaging element. A memory for storing an image signal output from the image sensor, and restoring the multimedia information from the image signal An integrated circuit that performs
Wherein the image pickup element, the memory, and the integrated circuit are all semiconductor elements manufactured by a semiconductor manufacturing method, and at least one of the elements is an element having a defect in the semiconductor manufacturing method. system.

That is, each electric circuit function can include a defect.

Therefore, parts costs are reduced.

(17) The image pickup device, the memory, and the integrated circuit having the defect have a defect rate according to the yield in the respective semiconductor manufacturing methods, and a predetermined allowable defect rate is set for each element. The information reproducing system according to (16), wherein the elements selected according to the set predetermined defect rate are used.

That is, a component selection standard is set for each element component.

Therefore, the type and number of allowable defects are set for each component, so that the sorting is performed without waste and the yield increases. Further, the cost of parts can be further reduced.

(18) The predetermined defect rate is an integrated circuit,
The information reproducing system according to (17), wherein the memory and the image sensor are selected so as to increase in order.

That is, the criterion is made strict in the order of the image sensor, the memory and the circuit.

Accordingly, the yield corresponds to a realistic yield situation, and the yield increases. Further, the cost of parts can be further reduced. Furthermore, by adding error correction, the influence of the defect up to that point can be eliminated.

(19) The information reproducing system according to (17), further comprising a defect error correcting means for correcting an error caused by a defect of each of the elements.

That is, a component selection criterion is set for each element component.

Therefore, the effect of the defect can be eliminated by adding the error correction.

(20) The plurality of functions of the reading means, the processing means, and the output means are classified according to a predetermined defect rate that can be tolerated by the respective elements. The information reproducing system according to (17), wherein a plurality of functions are provided on the same semiconductor substrate for each of the elements.

That is, the circuits are classified according to the selection criteria, and IC
Be transformed into

Therefore, since the circuit parts having different references are not on the same IC, the judgment is rejected because of the severe reference parts, and the pass parts with loose reference are not wasted.

(21) A plurality of functions of the reading means, processing means, and output means include a code imaging function, an analog / digital conversion function, a signal storage (memory) function,
The information reproducing system according to (20), further including at least one of a signal demodulation function, an error correction function, a signal output function, and an interface function.

That is, the circuits are classified according to the selection criteria,
Be transformed into

Therefore, since there is no circuit part having a different reference on the same IC, the judgment is rejected because of a severe reference, and a pass part with a loose reference is not wasted.

(22) A manually readable code reading unit, an information processing device, and a card-type substrate installed in an expansion slot of the information processing device for inputting data from the code reading unit and demodulating / processing the data. And a wireless data transmitting / receiving means provided between the code reading unit and the card type substrate.

That is, the processing circuit is mounted on a small card board, and the processing circuit and the reading unit are connected wirelessly.

Accordingly, since the processing circuit is integrated with the main body of the information processing device such as a personal computer, the size can be reduced as a whole. In particular, a compact system can be obtained by combining with an information processing terminal such as a notebook personal computer or a word processor. Further, since the reading unit is separated from the processing circuit (processing unit), there is no inconvenience such as entanglement of a cable, and scanning becomes very easy.

(23) A manually readable code reading unit, an information processing device, and a processing unit which is installed in an expansion slot of the information processing device and receives data from the code reading unit and demodulates / processes the data. An information reproducing system comprising a wireless data transfer function between the code reading unit and the processing unit.

That is, the reading unit and the processing unit are connected wirelessly, and the processing unit is connected to the interface of the information processing device.

Accordingly, since the reading section is separated from the processing section, there is no inconvenience such as entanglement of the cable, and the scanning becomes very easy. In addition, since it is connected to the interface of the information processing device, there is no need to add a new board.

(24) A manually readable code reading section, a television receiver, a game machine connected to the television receiver and having a television audio and video signal output function, and And a processing unit connected thereto for demodulating / processing by inputting data from the code reading unit, and a wireless data transmission / reception unit provided between the code reading unit and the processing unit. Information reproduction system.

That is, while outputting to the television receiver via the game device, the processing unit is mounted on the cassette of the game device, and the function of visualization uses that of the game device.

[0147] Therefore, since both game devices and television receivers have become widespread, the user is less required to purchase new devices. In addition, since the game device takes over the function of visualization, the circuit amount of the demodulation / processing unit is reduced, and the cost is reduced. Further, since the reading unit and the processing unit are separated from each other, there is no inconvenience such as entanglement of the cable, and the operation is very easy.

(25) A code reading and processing unit capable of manual scanning and a radio device are provided, and the code reading and processing unit transmits a demodulated / processed audio signal so that the radio device can receive the code signal. An information reproducing system having a function.

That is, the radio device and the code reading and processing unit are connected wirelessly.

[0150] Therefore, since the radio equipment is widely spread, the user can purchase less new equipment. Also,
Since the function of voice conversion is performed by the radio device, the amount of circuit of the code reading and processing unit is reduced, and the cost is reduced. Furthermore, since the code reading / processing unit and the audio playback unit are separated, the operation is extremely easy (no inconvenience such as entanglement of the cable), and the unit is installed away from the audio playback unit. become able to.

(26) A manually readable code reading unit, a processing unit for demodulating / processing data from the code reading unit to obtain an audio signal, a receiving unit for receiving an audio signal from the processing unit, An information reproducing system, comprising: an electric / voice conversion unit connected to the receiving unit; and a wireless data transmitting / receiving unit provided between the processing unit and the receiving unit.

That is, the processing section and the reproducing section (receiving unit, electric / voice conversion means, ie, headphones) are connected wirelessly.

Therefore, the whole body is reduced in size, and can be mounted on the body and moved. In addition, since the code reading unit and the processing unit are wirelessly connected to the reproducing unit, the movement of the body is not restricted.

(27) A code reading and processing unit capable of manual scanning and a music information medium reproducing device are provided, and the code reading and processing unit converts the demodulated / processed audio signal to the music information medium reproducing device. An information reproducing system characterized by outputting to an external input terminal.

That is, music is reproduced from a music information medium such as a CD or a cassette tape through a music information medium reproducing device 70 (using an amplifier function).

[0156] Therefore, by using the music information medium reproducing device including the headphones, the user can purchase less new equipment. In addition, since the music information medium reproducing device handles a part of the audio function, the amount of circuit of the code reading and processing unit is reduced, and the cost is reduced.

(28) A code reading / processing unit capable of manual scanning, a receiving unit for receiving an audio signal demodulated / processed by the code reading / processing unit, and an electric / audio converting means connected to the receiving unit And a wireless audio signal transmitting / receiving means provided between the code reading and processing unit and the receiving unit.

That is, the code reading and processing unit and the reproducing unit (the receiving unit and the electric / voice conversion means, ie, headphones) are wirelessly connected.

[0159] Therefore, the overall size is reduced, and the device can be mounted on the body and moved. Further, since the code reading / processing unit and the reproducing unit are connected wirelessly, the movement of the body is not restricted.

(29) A code reading and processing unit capable of manual scanning, a magnetic tape reproducing device, an audio signal demodulated / processed by the code reading and processing unit are received, and a magnetic head is applied to a reproducing head of the magnetic tape reproducing device. An information reproducing system comprising: a receiving adapter that outputs an audio signal by coupling; and a wireless audio signal transmitting and receiving unit provided between the code reading and processing unit and the receiving adapter.

That is, a receiving adapter that outputs a sound signal by magnetic coupling to a reproducing head of a magnetic tape reproducing device is used, and a part of the voice function is replaced by the magnetic tape reproducing device.

Therefore, by using the magnetic tape reproducing device including the headphones, the user can purchase less new equipment. Also, since a part of the function of voice conversion is taken over by the magnetic tape reproducing device, the amount of demodulation and processing circuits mounted in the code reading and processing unit is reduced, and the cost is reduced. Furthermore, since the code reading and processing unit is separated from the playback unit, there is no inconvenience such as entanglement of the cable, and the operation becomes very easy.

(30) A code reading section capable of manual scanning, a magnetic tape reproducing device, and a signal corresponding to a code from the code reading section are received, demodulated / processed to obtain an audio signal, and the magnetic tape reproduction is performed. Information comprising: a receiving adapter that outputs a sound signal by magnetic coupling to a reproducing head of a device; and wireless signal transmitting and receiving means provided between the code reading and processing unit and the receiving adapter. Reproduction system.

That is, a receiving adapter that outputs an audio signal by magnetic coupling to a reproducing head of a magnetic tape reproducing device is used, and a part of the audio function is replaced by the magnetic tape reproducing device.

Therefore, by using the magnetic tape reproducing device including the headphone, the user does not need to purchase a new device. In addition, since a part of the function of voice conversion is taken over by the magnetic tape reproducing device, the amount of demodulation and processing circuits mounted in the receiving adapter is reduced, and the cost is reduced. Further, since the code reading section is separated from the reproducing portion, there is no inconvenience such as entanglement of the cable, and the operation becomes very easy.

[0166]

As described in detail above, according to the present invention,
It is possible to provide an information reproducing system that is reduced in size and price.

Further, according to the present invention, the main part of the reading unit for performing manual scanning is unitized so that it can be used commonly for systems having various external shapes, thereby reducing the number of parts and reducing the cost due to mass production effects. Can be further achieved.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1A is a diagram showing a configuration of a reading unit used in an information reproducing system according to an embodiment of the present invention;
(B) to (D) are diagrams showing substrate units which are each made into a hybrid IC.

FIG. 2A is a diagram illustrating an optical system, and FIG. 2B is a diagram illustrating an appearance of a handheld reading unit.

FIGS. 3A and 3B are diagrams showing the appearance and internal structure of a mouse-type reading unit, respectively.

FIGS. 4A and 4B are external views of an example of an information reproducing system according to an embodiment.

FIGS. 5A and 5B are system external views showing examples of an information reproducing system according to an embodiment.

FIGS. 6A and 6B are external views of an example of an information reproducing system according to an embodiment.

FIGS. 7A to 7C are system external views each showing an example of an information reproducing system according to an embodiment;

FIGS. 8A and 8B are external views of an example of an information reproducing system according to an embodiment.

FIG. 9A is a system external view illustrating an example of an information reproducing system according to an embodiment, and FIG. 9B is a diagram illustrating a block configuration of an image sensor.

FIGS. 10A and 10B are external views of an example of an information reproducing system according to an embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram of an information reproducing system according to one embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating a modification of the information reproducing system.

[Explanation of symbols]

 REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 10 reading unit 12 pen-shaped housing 14 substrate 16 imaging device 18, 20 IC chip 22 optical system 192 data string adjustment unit 194 data error correction unit 204 imaging unit 214 image memory 234 data memory unit

 ────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continuing on the front page (72) Inventor Yasuo Nakajo 2-43-2 Hatagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo F-term in Olympus Optical Industry Co., Ltd. 5B072 AA03 CC21 DD01 DD23 HH11 JJ12 LL13 LL19 MM04

Claims (5)

[Claims] 1. An information reproducing system for optically reading a code from an information recording medium having a portion in which information is recorded with an optically readable code to reproduce the information. An image sensor for outputting the image signal, a memory for storing the image signal output from the image sensor as image data, and a data for reproducing and outputting the information from the image data stored in the memory. An information reproducing system comprising: a data error correction unit that performs error correction; and at least one of the image sensor and the memory is an element having a defect in a semiconductor manufacturing method. 2. The information reproduction system according to claim 1, wherein said data error correction means is configured to correct an error caused by said defect. 3. The information reproducing system according to claim 1, wherein the image pickup device and the memory are selected according to separate selection criteria set for each of the devices. 4. When the image sensor and the memory both have the defect, the image sensor and the memory are selected so that the number of defects of the image sensor is larger than the number of defects of the memory. The information reproducing system according to claim 1, wherein 5. The information reproducing system according to claim 1, wherein the code is a two-dimensional code that can be read by manual scanning.