JP2003182272A - Embedded data processing apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an embedded data processing system capable of efficiently performing electronic recognition accurately with respect to a pasting valuable paper piece and enabling accurate totalization processing. <P>SOLUTION: In a stamp making apparatus 10 as an embedded data processing apparatus, a pattern is printed on a pattern printing part 11 and a group of code blocks, wherein the price data of a stamp is reduntantly described at a plurality of places as embedded data, is printed on the stamp, which is coated with an adhesive in an adhesive coating part 12, in an embedded data cumulating and printing part 13. Mail having the stamp pasted thereon is read by the extraction processor 20 arranged to a mail collection and delivery station 2 and one code block per each tamp is taken out to be decoded and the decoded result is outputted to a totalization device 30. The totalization device 30 perform arithmetic operation for stamp distribution quantity at every price data as distribution quantity data not only to output the same but also to transmit the same to an adding-up device 40. The adding-up device 40 forms the statistic data related to the stamp distribution quantity of the whole country on the basis of the distribution quantity data received from mail collection and delivery stations of various places. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2003,JPO

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an embedded information processing apparatus for processing embedded information on a valuable paper piece attached to a distribution item.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications, it is an important issue to grasp information about the amount of stamps issued. For example, 2000
The "Research Report on Postal Information Systems Using Two-dimensional Bar Codes" issued by the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications Research Institute of the month issued a two-dimensional bar code called "Electronic postage stamp digitization and point-of-sale system". The system used for the postal business is described. This prints sales information of postage stamps such as ticket type code and face value as a two-dimensional bar code on one place on the stamp, reads the two-dimensional bar code with a bar code reader at the time of stamp sale, and manually inputs the number of sales. It is a system that obtains sales information by doing.

Further, it is necessary to grasp the circulation amount of stamps as well as the issued amount of stamps. However, valuable paper pieces such as stamps are actually used as valuable paper pieces, that is, where the function as valuable paper pieces is exercised in the regular distribution process (for example, product exchange and service provision process). If it does not appear in), it is difficult to accurately grasp the amount of distribution. For example, in the case of postage stamps, all purchased stamps are not necessarily attached to and used for postal items, and if they are not actually used, it is not possible to grasp the total circulation amount.

Therefore, it is desirable to grasp at least the distribution amount (partial distribution amount) of valuable paper pieces in the distribution process.

[0005]

However, there is a limit to manual measurement in order to measure the amount of valuable paper pieces distributed without disturbing smooth distribution during the distribution process. This is because there is a possibility that the flow rate cannot be measured as an accurate numerical value due to a visual error. If you want to obtain accurate figures, the work efficiency is low and the postal service may be hindered due to the wide variety of stamps and the high degree of freedom in sticking stamps. .

[0006] Therefore, it is conceivable to use the one described in the conventional "electronicization of postage stamps and point-of-sale management system" at the collection and delivery station to grasp the distribution amount. However, stamps (postmarks) will be attached to the stamps collected and delivered to the collection and delivery office.
Etc., used processing for stamps is done. When this processing is done by overlapping with the two-dimensional barcode on the stamp,
The two-dimensional bar code may not be read accurately by the bar code reader.

The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and a print image of embedded information such as a two-dimensional bar code is displayed.
It is an object of the present invention to provide an embedded information processing apparatus capable of performing accurate totalization processing of circulation amount by printing on valuable paper pieces in a form that can be extracted even if used certification processing is performed.

[0008]

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION The present invention for solving the above-mentioned problems of the prior art is an embedded information processing apparatus, which is a means for generating a print image of embedded information and a valuable value for pasting. Printing means for printing the printing image on a piece of paper. Here, it is also preferable that the printing unit prints the printing image of the embedding information in a form that can be extracted even if the valuable paper piece is subjected to the used certificate processing. Further, the printing means may be capable of extracting the printing image by printing the printing image a plurality of times even if the printing proof processing is performed on the valuable paper piece. When the printing is performed by imprinting the surface of the valuable paper with a predetermined ink, the printing means prints the printing image with an ink or a toner having a light absorption wavelength range different from that of the predetermined ink. The printing image may be extracted even if the used proof processing is performed on the valuable paper piece. Further, the ink or toner having a light absorption wavelength range different from that of the predetermined ink in this case may be an infrared absorption ink or an infrared absorption toner. Further, the printing means extracts the embedded information based on the printing image,
It is preferable to print the printing image so that it is possible regardless of the reading direction of the valuable paper piece. This can be realized by previously determining the shape of the printing image and extracting information based on the previously determined shape. The valuable paper piece includes a print medium.

Further, the present invention for solving the above-mentioned problems of the prior art is an embedding information processing apparatus, in which means for generating a printing image of embedding information and the printing on a valuable paper piece for sticking. And a printing unit that prints a printing image, wherein the printing image of the embedded information is preferably a code block group including a plurality of code blocks arranged in a predetermined pattern. . Further, each of the code blocks has common information common to each other,
It is also preferable to have a pattern representing embedded information including individual information different from each other. Further, it is also preferable that the individual information of each code block includes position information indicating the existing position of the code block on the valuable paper piece.

By redundantly embedding information as common information in a plurality of code blocks in this way, accurate information can be read even in various pasting modes, and different individual information is embedded in each code block. By that,
The harmful effect of reading a plurality of information from one piece of paper is prevented.

Further, the embedding information represented by each code block includes processing parameter information for a predetermined process on an adherend to which the valuable paper piece is pasted, and when the code block is read. It is also preferable that a predetermined process is performed on the adherend based on the process parameter information.

Further, it is preferable that the code block is printed invisible (that is, using a transparent toner) so as to be difficult for the human eye to identify. This is because it is possible to utilize the design (design) that is the rough sketch. Further, it is preferable that the code blocks are densely arranged and printed in a predetermined area on the valuable paper piece. Further, it is preferable that the code blocks are cumulatively printed on a printed design, and the code blocks may be printed together with the design of the valuable paper piece. In the latter case, it is also preferable that printing is performed without using black ink in printing the color on the design. In one aspect of the present invention, the valuable paper piece is a stamp.

The present invention for solving the above-mentioned problems of the prior art is an embedding information processing method, which comprises a step of generating a printing image of the embedding information and the printing on a valuable paper piece for sticking. And a printing process for printing an image.

Here, the printing image of the embedded information is
It is preferably a code block group including a plurality of code blocks arranged in a predetermined pattern. It is also preferable that each of the code blocks has a pattern indicating embedded information including common information common to each other and individual information different from each other.

Furthermore, the present invention for solving the above-mentioned problems of the prior art is an embedding information processing program, which is a procedure for generating a printing image of embedding information in a computer, and a valuable paper piece for pasting. And a procedure for causing the printing image to be printed.

Here, it is preferable that the printing image of the embedded information is a code block group including a plurality of code blocks arranged in a predetermined pattern. Further, each of the code blocks has common information common to each other,
It is preferable to have a pattern representing embedded information including individual information different from each other.

[0017]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the case where the distribution status of stamps in the postal business is totaled will be described as an example. First, a general distribution route of mail will be briefly described. Mail items that are posted to a small-scale post office (non-collection office) that does not carry out post or collection / delivery business are collected at the postal collection / delivery office (usually simply called the "collection / delivery office") that has jurisdiction over the region. In this collection and delivery station, the destination of each mail item is discriminated, and the mail is transported to the general post office (regional division office) in each region. This collection and delivery station is about 2 in Japan
There are 500 stations. The regional divisions further distribute and transport mail to each collection and delivery station according to region, and carry out transportation and delivery work from these collection and delivery stations to each destination. In other words, postal items are generally transported by a route of non-collection / delivery station → collection / delivery station (from / delivery side collection / delivery station) → regional division station → collection / delivery station (destination side / delivery station) → destination, and postmarks are accepted at reception offices (non-collection / delivery station Will be stamped at the collection / delivery office that directly accepted. The stamp of this postmark is used certificate processing in a postage stamp, which is an example of a valuable paper piece.

The embedded information processing system according to the embodiment of the present invention is, as shown in FIG. 1, a stamp creating device 10 arranged on the side of the stamp issuing organization 1 and an extraction arranged on the side of the mail collection and delivery office 2. The processing device 20, the aggregation device 30, and the management center 3
And a totalizing device 40 arranged on the side. Here, the stamp issuing organization 1 may have two or more,
Each stamp issuing organization 1 has a unique issuing number. Each of these parts will be described below.

[Postage Stamp Making Apparatus] The postage stamp making apparatus 10 corresponds to the embedded information processing apparatus of the present invention, and as shown in FIG.
A pattern printing unit 11, an adhesive application unit 12, an embedding information cumulative printing unit 13 as a printing unit, a cutting unit 14, and a control unit 15 as a unit for creating a printing image are provided. The pattern printing unit 11 prints a stamp design on paper. The pattern printing unit 11 prints a plurality of stamp designs on one sheet. Adhesive application section 12
Applies an adhesive (a water-soluble material that exhibits adhesion by adsorbing moisture) to the back side of the printed surface of the stamp design of the paper. The embedding information cumulative printing unit 13 prints predetermined embedding information for a plurality of sheets by superimposing it on a stamp design according to an instruction input from the control unit 15. A specific example of this embedded information will be described later in detail. The cutting portion 14 is
Form perforations on a sheet for cutting into a plurality of stamps. Although the adhesive is applied here after the pattern is printed, a sheet to which the adhesive is applied in advance may be used if there is no problem in the pattern printing. In this case, the adhesive application section 12 is not always necessary.

The control unit 15 is a general computer, and executes the printing process of the embedded information according to the program stored in the storage unit (not shown). Here, the embedded information is a one-dimensional or two-dimensional barcode or US Pat.
It is printed as a printing image such as a computer-readable code block such as a "glyph" shown in No. 1,966. Further, as shown in FIG. 3, the code blocks (C1, C2 ...) Representing the embedding information are located inside the center of the stamp outline (the line where the perforations are formed in the cut portion 14). Multiple, densely arranged. For example, it is printed inside the blank area, which is the outside of the stamp design, that is, in an area excluding the blank area. Here, the reason for making a plurality is that the necessary information is made redundant by paying attention to the fact that there is a portion that is obscured by postmarking, etc. The code block was designed so that it will not be cut even if the value is slightly shifted. It is preferable that the embedding information is printed on the postal matter to which the valuable paper piece is attached by using a material having a property different from that of the ink used for the imprinting performed in the collecting and delivering process. That is, it is assumed that printing is performed with toner or ink having a property (for example, light absorption property) different from that of the postmark ink. Preferably, this embedded information is invisible to the human eye, for example printed with infrared absorbing transparent toner. In addition, here, the pattern printing unit 11
Prints the code block with a single color black ink (K), whereas when printing the black color of the stamp design portion, it is not a single color black ink (K) so that the embedded information can be distinguished from the design. Cyan (C), magenta (M),
It is preferable to print as so-called process black obtained by mixing yellow (Y) ink. This is because the black ink (K) absorbs infrared rays, and this is avoided to facilitate mechanical discrimination from the embedded information by the infrared absorbing transparent toner. When printing with the infrared absorbing transparent toner, only one piece of embedded information may be printed.

Each code block includes, as common information, a stamp amount (price information) and a unique design number assigned to each design of the stamp. Position information indicating the existing position is included as different individual information. Here, the position information may be information on an identifier for identifying the code block. Further, in this code block, area information indicating the print area of the code block group including a plurality of code blocks, shape information indicating the shape of the stamp, and the stamp issue date and the stamp issuer identification number are common. It may be included as information.

[Postage Stamp Printing Apparatus Printing Embedding Information with Pattern] The postage stamp creating apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment does not print the embedded information and the design individually but integrally prints them. May be As shown in FIG. 4, the stamp creating device 10 in this case includes a printing unit 16, an adhesive applying unit 12, a cutting unit 14, and a control unit 15.
The printing unit 16 receives an instruction from the control unit 15
A color printer that integrally prints a predetermined design and embedded information. The adhesive application section 12 and the cut section 1
Since 4 has the same configuration as that already described, its detailed description is omitted.

The control unit 15 operates almost in the same manner as the control unit 15 described above, but the printing unit 1 issues an instruction to integrally print the embedding information and the design of the stamp.
6 is different. That is, this control unit 15
Causes the embedding information to be printed together with the design of the designated design according to the program stored in the storage unit (not shown). Here, the embedded information may be printed as a one-dimensional or two-dimensional bar code, a “glyph” shown in US Pat. No. 5,091,966, or the like as a computer optically readable code block. Alternatively, it may be fusedly printed as a halftone glyph (halftone glyph) so as to blend into the stamp design.
Furthermore, the screen of the color print may be modulated and fused with the stamp design for printing.

The arrangement of each code block and the type of information included in the code block (or the type of information printed in a fused manner) are different from those when the stamp design and the code block described above are printed individually. Since they are the same, detailed description will be omitted. In the case of fusion printing, it is preferable that common information is repeatedly and redundantly included and a unique identifier is associated with each repeating unit. Also here, the adhesive is applied after printing, but a sheet to which the adhesive is applied in advance may be used if there is no problem in printing. Also in this case, the adhesive application section 12 is not always necessary.

Here, the printing section 16 realizes the printing means of the present invention, and the control section 15 corresponds to the means for generating the printing image of the present invention.

[Extraction Processing Device] Next, the extraction processing device 20
Will be described. The extraction processing device 20 includes a scanner unit 21 and an image processing unit 22 as shown in FIG. 5, and the image processing unit 22 is connected to a totaling device 30 described later. The scanner unit 21 is, for example, a CCD (Char
ge Coupled Device) camera, which is provided on the conveyance path that conveys postal items, images the surface of each postal item flowing along the conveyance route, and outputs the imaged image data to the image processing unit 22 as a sample image. To do. This scanner unit 2
1 corresponds to the reading means of the present invention.

The image processing unit 22 is a computer,
As shown in FIG. 5, it is configured to include a CPU 51, a storage unit 52, a hard disk 53, and a communication unit 54. The image processing unit 22 includes a display unit such as a display,
An operation unit including a keyboard and a mouse may be provided. In accordance with the image processing program stored in the hard disk 53, the CPU 51 stores the sample image input from the scanner unit 21 in the storage unit 52, analyzes the sample image, and analyzes at least one valuable paper piece ( The embedded information on the stamp) is extracted, each valuable paper piece (stamp) is electronically recognized, and the recognition result is output to the totaling device 30 via the communication unit 54. The CPU 51 detects a plurality of pieces of embedding information from one stamp because of redundant information included in a plurality of places in consideration of obscuration due to postmarking or the like, which may cause an error in detecting the number of stamps. Predetermined image processing is performed so as not to exist. That is, one embedding information is extracted for one stamp, and the details of the specific processing will be described later.

The storage unit 52 operates as a work memory of the CPU 51. The hard disk 53 stores a program executed by the CPU 51. The communication unit 54 is connected to the totaling device 30 and the scanner unit 21, and is, for example, a serial communication line such as USB (Universal Serial Bus) or a network communication line such as Ethernet (registered trademark). The communication unit 54 sends data (information about the electronic recognition result of a stamp, etc.) to a predetermined destination according to an instruction input from the CPU 51, and receives data (for example, the scanner unit 21) via a communication line. (Sample image data from) is output to the CPU 51. The CPU 51, the storage unit 52, the hard disk 53, the communication unit 54, etc. are communicably connected to each other via a bus.

The operation of the image processing program executed by the CPU 51 of the image processing section 22 will be described below. C
The PU 51 receives the input of the sample image data from the scanner unit 21, stores it in the storage unit 52, and starts the execution of the image processing program. Since the sample image data is data obtained by capturing an image of a postal matter on the conveyance route of the postal matter, the orientation of the postal matter is undefined, and the stamp (T) is imaged in a state in which it is inclined with respect to the imaging range (R). (FIG. 6A). Note that FIG. 6 shows a state in which four code blocks are arranged in a 2 × 2 matrix. The sample image data is a set of a plurality of pixels, and the CPU 51
The sample image data is divided into pixel blocks, and each pixel block of the sample image data is scanned in a predetermined sequence (S) along one side of the rectangular imaging range. CPU51
Scans each pixel block and checks whether or not a part of the code block is included in the pixel block. If it is not included, the scanning is continued. If it is included, the pixel block is "Base point block" (Fig. 6 (b);
Base point detection).

Then, the CPU 51 determines a predetermined rectangular area (r) including the base point (P) on one side (shown in FIG. 6B), and sequentially scans the pixel blocks in the predetermined rectangular area (r). , Based on the information indicating whether or not a part of the code block is included, (1) is a pixel block located at the lower right of the base point and including a part of the code block, and A pixel block (first end point) that does not include a part of the code block in both the right side pixel block and the lower side pixel block, and (2) is located at the lower left of the base point and includes a part of the code block And a pixel block (second end point) that does not include a part of the code block in both the left pixel block and the lower pixel block.

Here, if the predetermined rectangular area (r) is, for example, a rectangle in which the code block is composed of a × b (b> a) pixel blocks, the pixel block position (x0, y) at the base point
0), and (x0-b, y0)

[Equation 1] A rectangular area with and as diagonal lines (note that the x-axis is the right side of the stamp in the positive direction and the y-axis is the downward direction of the stamp in the positive direction)
And it is sufficient.

The CPU 51 controls the pixel block position (x0, y0) at the base point and the pixel block position (x at the first end point).
1, y1) and the pixel block position of the second end point (x2, y
2), the vector value of the difference between the base point and the first end point is (Δx, Δy) = (x1, y1) − (x0, y).
0) is calculated, and this vector value is used as the position (x
2, y2), and the pixel block position (x3, y3) of the third end point that determines the rectangle of the code block (x3, y3) = (x
2, y2) + (Δx, Δy) is calculated (determination of code block).

The code block is included in the range surrounded by the rectangular area defined by the base point, the first end point, the second end point, and the third end point. The CPU 51 decodes the code block surrounded by this rectangular area and stores the result in the storage unit 52. Here, based on the vector of the difference between the base point and the first endpoint, the inclination θ of the code block is θ = ta.
Since n-1 (Δy / Δx) is obtained, an image rotated with respect to the sample image data so as to correct this inclination θ depending on the nature of the code (when decoding cannot be performed without correcting the inclination). After performing the processing, the code block in the rectangular area defined by the points after the rotation processing may be decoded (code block decoding).

The characteristic of this embodiment is that C
The PU 51 extracts information on the existing position of the code block from the decoding result, recognizes the area in which the code block group is arranged based on the information on the existing position, and uses the recognized area as the scan exclusion area. It is to be used for later processing. Specifically, there are four code blocks,
As shown in FIG. 7, the information is arranged in a 2 × 2 matrix, and the information on the respective positions of the upper left (upper left in the design of the stamp) is “1” for identifying each code block, and the upper right is “1”. 2 ”, lower left one is“ 3 ”, lower right one is“ 4 ”, and so on.
If the PU 51 recognizes the information of the existence position of the identifier “1” by the above process, the predetermined first coordinate on the extension of the line connecting the base point and the first end point and the base point and the second end point are connected. Information of the rectangular area (Rg) surrounding the four code block groups defined by the predetermined second coordinates on the line extension is stored in the storage unit 52 as the scan exclusion area (determination of the scan exclusion area).

Here, the predetermined first and second coordinates on the extension line are
Vector value of the difference between the base point and the first end point (Δx1, Δy
1) = (x1, y1) − (x0, y0), the base point and the second
The vector value of the difference from the end point (Δx2, Δy2) = (x
2, y2)-(x0, y0) is used to determine the first coordinate as (x0, y0) + α (Δx1, Δy1) and the second coordinate (x0, y0) + β (Δx2, Δy2). . These α and β are α> 2 and β> 2 when the code blocks are arranged in a 2 × 2 matrix (values larger than “2” in consideration of the blank portion between the code blocks). . However, in the case of a 2 × 2 matrix, it is preferable that α and β are not so large as to exceed “3”.

Then, the CPU 51 repeats the processes of detecting the base point, determining the code block, decoding the code block, and determining the scan exclusion area. Here, the scanning range of the pixel block is the part excluding the scan exclusion area, and when a part of the code block is no longer included in the scanning range excluding the scan exclusion area (the code blocks on all stamps are decoded. Processing is completed).

In this way, the CPU 51 stores at least one decoding result for one mail piece in the storage unit 52, and outputs the accumulated decoding result set to the totaling device 30 via the communication unit 54 after the processing is completed. To do. This set of decoding results corresponds to recognition result information.

[Operation of Extraction Processing Device] Here, it will be described that the extraction processing device 20 correctly acquires information of stamps attached in various modes, by giving some examples. First, in the detection of the base point, when the upper right code block is detected (FIG. 8A), the base point (P0), the first endpoint (P1), and the second endpoint (P2) are detected and are to be decoded. A rectangular area (Rd) including the code block is obtained, and it is recognized from the result of decoding that the position information is “2”, that is, the upper right (the stamp is inclined upward to the right with respect to the scanning direction). It is recognized that the scanning exclusion area (Rg) is determined from each of the base point, the first end point, and the second end point. The same processing is performed when the lower left code block is found in the detection of the base point (FIG. 8B) and when the lower right code block is found in the detection of the base point (FIG. 8C). This Figure 8
The examples shown in (b) and FIG. 8 (c) correspond to the case where the stamp is attached upside down, and the like.

Further, a case where a plurality of stamps are attached will be described. When the stamps are separated from each other as shown in FIG. 9A, but are attached with different inclinations, first, the base point (P0) is detected for the first stamp (T1), From this, the first end point (P1) and the second end point (P2) are detected, and a rectangular area (Rd1) including the code block to be decoded is obtained. Further, the scanning exclusion area (Rg1) is determined from these.
When the CPU 51 continuously scans, the base point (Q0) of the second stamp (T2) is detected in a portion other than the scan exclusion area (Rg1), and the first end point (Q1) and the second end point (Q2) are detected. ) Is detected, a rectangular area (Rd2) including the code block to be decoded is obtained. Also,
From these, the scan exclusion area (Rg2) is determined. In this way, the code blocks Rd1 and Rd2 to be decoded are obtained from each stamp, and the information regarding each stamp is correctly obtained.

Further, since the scanning exclusion area is provided, the information for each stamp can be correctly obtained even when a part of the stamps are pasted and stuck together. ) -FIG. 9 (d) will be described. FIG. 9B shows the case where the second stamp is attached on the first stamp. For the first stamp, the base point (P0), the first endpoint (P1), the second endpoint (P)
The code block to be decoded is determined by the rectangular area (Rd1) and the scanning exclusion area (Rg1) based on the information in 2). This scan exclusion area (Rg
Since 1) includes the code block of the second stamp, the CPU 51 scans the area excluding the scan exclusion area (Rg1) and, as a result, scans the code block in the upper right corner of the second stamp (C).
The base point (Q0) is detected at 2) and the first end point (Q
1), the second end point (Q2) is detected, and the upper right code block is used as the decoding target code block, and the rectangular area (R
The scanning exclusion area (Rg2) is also determined in accordance with d2). Also in this case, the information regarding each of the two stamps can be correctly obtained.

Similarly, as shown in FIG. 9C, when the first stamp is attached so as to hide the code blocks on the upper left and upper right of the second stamp, the decoding target of the first stamp is similarly decoded. Code block (C1) and the scan exclusion area (R
g1) is determined, and the code block (lower left code block; C3) to be decoded of the second stamp is detected from the scan of the portion other than the scan exclusion area (Rg1). Therefore, also in this case, the information regarding each of the two stamps can be obtained correctly.

Further, as shown in FIG. 9 (d), even when two stamps have different inclinations, but a part of them are overlapped and attached, the code block (C1) is formed on the first stamp. The decoding target code block (C1) is determined as the decoding target, the scanning exclusion region (Rg1) is determined accordingly, and the decoding target code block (C1) of the second stamp is determined from the portion other than the scanning exclusion region (Rg1). Therefore, even in such an unusual case, the information about each of the two stamps can be correctly obtained. The code blocks other than the decoding target code block may be decoded and ignored. Further, when decoding a plurality of code blocks in this way, a majority decision is made using information obtained from a plurality of code blocks (for example, to obtain one decoding result for one valuable paper (stamp)). As the error correction, the information about each stamp may be obtained while using the information of the code block that is not the decoding target.

[Processing when decoding result is error] C
When the code block cannot be decoded for some reason as a result of decoding in the code block decoding process (when the code block is decoded in error), the PU 51 has a rectangular area (Rd) corresponding to the code block. ) Is excluded and the process is repeated from the detection of the base point. For example, as shown in FIG. 10A, when the decoding of the first code block (C1) ends in an error, the second code block (C2) can be read from other than the rectangular area (Rd) corresponding to this code block. The base point (P0) is detected again, and thereafter, based on the second code block, the information regarding the stamp concerned can be obtained from the same processing as described above.

This is as shown in FIG.
The same applies when the code block has disappeared due to a part of the stamp being removed. In this case, the first
Even if the area (R) where the code block (C1) of FIG. From now on, the second code block (C2) becomes the code block to be decoded.

[Another Example of Scan Exclusion Area] Here, as the scan exclusion area, a predetermined first coordinate on an extension of a line connecting the base point and the first end point and a line connecting the base point and the second end point are described. While the information of the rectangular area (Rg) surrounding the four code block groups determined by the predetermined second coordinate on the extension is used, the embedding information in the code block includes the information about the outer shape of the stamp. In this case, the area surrounded by the shape of the stamp may be determined as the scan exclusion area by using the information of the outer shape. In this case, the information for determining the outer shape needs to be set so that the positional relationship with each code block is recognized. For example, coordinate information that determines the outer shape is set as a relative coordinate value from the base point of each code block to any one of the first to third end points.

[Narrowing down the scanning area] In the above description, the CPU 51 was supposed to scan the entire input sample image, but in the actual situation of the postal service, a stamp is attached to a predetermined rectangular area on the upper left side of the mail. I'm asking you to. Since there is an area defined in the mail collection and delivery regulations in this way, only the area defined by the regulations (hereinafter referred to as the regulated area) may be scanned as the scanning range.
In this case, it is preferable that the scanner unit 21 perform processing for aligning the orientation of the postal matter in a predetermined direction. For example, the top side of the mail in the direction of conveyance of the conveyance path (direction in which the destination can be read)
Align. As the processing for aligning the directions, a method widely known in the recognition processing of the destination (postal code) can be used. Moreover, the CPU 51 determines the scanning range after recognizing the outer shape of the mail in order to determine the upper left side of the mail. A widely known outline extraction process can be applied to the process of recognizing the outer shape of the mail.

[Aggregating Device] Next, the operation of the aggregating device 30 will be described. The tallying device 30 has a configuration similar to that of a general computer, and as shown in FIG.
1, CPU 62, storage unit 63, and hard disk 6
4, an output unit 65, and an input unit 66. Here, these respective units are bus-connected to each other.

The communication unit 61 is connected to the extraction processing device 20 and outputs the information of the decoding result set input from the extraction processing device 20 to the CPU 62. The CPU 62 operates according to a program stored in the hard disk 64, and uses a price information of stamps as a key, and a price totaling database (FIG. 12 (a)) in which a numerical value representing the number of appearances of stamps of each price is associated. Using the design number as a key, it manages a design totaling database (FIG. 12 (b)) in which numerical values representing the number of appearances of stamps of each design are associated.

The CPU 62 refers to the price information of each stamp based on the result of each decoding from the set of decoding results input via the communication unit 61, and searches the price totaling database using the price information as a key. . And
If there is a value of the number of occurrences with the price information as a key, the value is incremented. If there is no value of the number of occurrences with the price information as a key, an entry of a database in which the number of occurrences is associated with "1" as the price information is created and registered in the price totaling database.

Further, the CPU 62 refers to the design number of each stamp based on the result of each decoding, and searches the design totaling database using the design number as a key. Then, if there is a value of the number of occurrences with the design number as a key, the value is incremented. If there is no value of the number of appearances with the design number as a key, a database entry is created with the design number as a key and the number of appearances as “1” and registered in the design totaling database.

Further, the CPU 62 outputs the contents of the price totaling database and the contents of the design totaling database (circulation amount information) to the output unit 65 according to the instruction input from the input unit 66. Further, the CPU 62 responds to the instruction by
The contents of the price totaling database and the contents of the design totaling database are output to the totaling device 40 as distribution amount information via the communication unit 61.

The storage unit 63 operates as a work memory of the CPU 62. The hard disk 64 stores a counting program executed by the CPU 62. The output unit 65 is a display, a printer, or the like, and a CPU
When the contents of the price totaling database and the contents of the design totaling database are input from 62, these are displayed or printed out. The input unit 66 is a keyboard, a mouse, or the like, and transmits the content of the user's instruction operation to the CPU 62.

That is, the totaling device 30 receives the information of the set of the decoding results of the code blocks on each stamp from the extraction processing device 20, and determines the distribution amount of stamps for each price,
Display and aggregate distribution volume information such as distribution volume for each design.
Alternatively, the information is printed out and the distribution amount information is transmitted to the totalizing device 40.

The totalizing device 30 may perform other predetermined statistical processing, output the statistical processing result, or transmit the statistical processing result to the totalizing device 40. For example, the circulation amount for each stamp issuing organization 1 may be calculated using the issuing office number, or statistics according to the issue date may be calculated.

[Totaling Device] Next, the operation of the totaling device 40 will be described. The totaling device 40 is arranged in the management center 3, receives communication volume information via a network such as the Internet by communication from the totaling device 30 of the postal collection and delivery office 2 in various places, and calculates the total number of appearances for each price. Calculate In addition, the total number of appearances for each design is calculated. In other words, the totalizing device 40 collects information about the distribution amount of stamps nationwide from both the price side and the design side. The result of tabulation by the totaling device 40 is used as determination of the stamp issuance amount and statistical information indicating which design of the stamp is popular in actual use of the postal service. For example, the totalized result is transmitted to the stamp creating apparatus 10 and used for adjusting the amount of stamp making. As a result, if a large number of 50-yen stamps are used, it is possible to adjust the production amount (issue amount) of the 50-yen stamps to increase accordingly.

The totalizing device 40 is used in the mail collection and delivery office 2
By collecting the distribution amount information from the totalizing device 30 for each region, the statistical information of the distribution amount for each usage region can be obtained. For example, if the sender-side collection / delivery station performs the above-mentioned tabulation, information about the distribution of stamps frequently used by senders in the area can be obtained.

Further, the totalizing device 40 may obtain the result of statistical processing by the totaling device 30 in each place and calculate the national statistical processing result.

[Operation] Next, the operation of the embedded information processing system according to the present embodiment will be described by taking as an example the case of collecting the distribution status of stamps in the postal service. Each stamp issuing organization uses the stamp creating device 10 to print the embedding information including the price information and the design number of the stamp on the stamp. Here, the embedded information is included in each of the plurality of code blocks and is redundantly described in each of the plurality of locations on the stamp.

This stamp is affixed to a mail item and is posted.
These mail items are collected by the mail collection and delivery office 2. Collection and delivery station 2
On the side, the scanner unit 21 of the extraction processing apparatus 20 generates sample image data that images the surface of each mail and outputs the sample image data to the image processing unit 22, and the image processing unit 22 determines a pixel block of this sample image data in a predetermined manner. Scan in accordance with the sequence to determine the rectangular area of the code block to be decoded (detect the base point and determine the code block) and perform decoding based on the code block (decode the code block). The scan exclusion area surrounding the code block group is determined from the position information included as the embedded information (determination of the scan exclusion area).

Then, the portion other than the scan exclusion area is scanned, and the processes of detecting the base point, determining the code block, decoding the code block, and determining the scan exclusion area are repeated, and the decoding of the determined code block is continued. In this way, a process of determining and decoding the code blocks on each stamp on the postal matter one by one is performed, a set of decoding results for each stamp is totaled, and the set of decoding results is stored in the totaling device 30. Is output.

The totaling device 30 receives the input of the decoding result set, calculates the distribution amount information such as the distribution amount for each price of the stamp, and outputs the distribution amount information to the display or the printer. Send to 40. Total device 4
At 0, the distribution amount information is received from the aggregation device 30 arranged on the side of the postal collection / delivery station 2 in all parts of the country, and statistical information based on the distribution amount information in all parts of the country is calculated and output.

This output result is used as a decision-making body for the amount of stamps issued and as statistical information indicating which design of stamps is popular in the actual use of the postal service.

[Example of Arrangement of Code Blocks] According to the description so far, the stamp creating apparatus 10 has code blocks of 2 × 2.
Although it is supposed that they are arranged and printed in a matrix of, the arrangement is not limited to this, but may be arranged in two positions on a diagonal line as shown in FIG. 13A, or in FIG. 13B.
As shown in FIG. 5, the central portion and four points around the central portion may be arranged at a total of five places. According to the arrangement as shown in FIG. 13B, for example, when the stamp is attached so that only a part of the center of the stamp is exposed (as shown in FIG. 14, the first and second stamps T
1, T2 partially obscured its upper and lower ends 3
Correct information can be obtained even in the case of the third stamp T3).

Further, invisible ink such as infrared ink which reacts with infrared rays may be used for printing the code block.

[Other Example of Valuable Paper Piece for Sticking] In the description of this embodiment, the postage stamp has been described as an example of the valuable paper piece for sticking, but such a sticking valuable paper piece may be a revenue stamp or a patent stamp. Those used by administrative agencies such as, and those used within universities and other organizations such as so-called certificate stamps are also included.

Further, here, a valuable paper piece for pasting is read by a series of reading processes of detection of a base point, determination of a code block, decoding of a code block, and determination of a scan exclusion area, and then embedded in the code block. Although the case of performing classification and aggregation based on price information etc. has been described, for example, in the code block, together with the information for aggregation,
Alternatively, processing parameter information for performing a predetermined processing may be included instead of the information for counting. In this case, based on the set of decoding results output by the extraction processing device 20,
Predetermined processing is performed on the adherend (postal matter here) to which the valuable paper piece is adhered. Examples of the predetermined process include a sealing process and a finisher process such as stapling.

[0067]

According to the invention described in claim 1 and each of the claims dependent thereon, the embedding information for generating the printing image of the embedding information and printing the printing image on the valuable paper piece for sticking. Since the processing device is used, electronic recognition can be accurately performed, and accurate tabulation processing can be performed.

According to the invention described in claim 17 and each of the claims dependent thereon, a step of generating a printing image of the embedding information, and a printing step of printing the printing image on a valuable paper piece for sticking Since the embedded information processing method including, is used, electronic recognition can be accurately performed, and accurate counting processing can be performed.

According to the twentieth aspect and the inventions according to the respective subordinate claims, a procedure for generating a print image of embedded information in a computer and printing the print image on a valuable paper strip for sticking are performed. Since the embedded information processing program for executing the procedure and the embedded information processing program is executed, it is possible to accurately perform electronic recognition and to perform accurate aggregation processing.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an overall image of an embedded information processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a configuration block diagram of a stamp creating device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a stamp created by the stamp creating apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a configuration block diagram showing another example of the stamp creating apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a configuration block diagram of an extraction processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the operation of the extraction processing device.

FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an operation of the extraction processing device.

FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the operation of the extraction processing device.

FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the operation of the extraction processing device.

FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the operation of the extraction processing device.

FIG. 11 is a configuration block diagram of a tallying device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the contents of a database that aggregates distribution information.

FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram illustrating another example of a stamp created by the stamp creating apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a pasted state of stamps.

[Explanation of symbols]

1 stamp issuing organization, 2 postal collection and delivery office, 3 management center,
10 stamp making device, 11 pattern printing part, 12 adhesive applying part, 13 embedded information accumulating printing part, 14 cutting part,
15 control unit, 16 printing unit, 20 extraction processing device, 2
1 scanner unit, 22 image processing unit, 30 totalizing device,
40 total device, 51, 62 CPU, 52, 63 storage unit, 53, 64 hard disk, 54, 61 communication unit, 65 output unit, 66 input unit.

Front page continuation (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification code FI theme code (reference) H04N 1/387 H04N 1/387 F term (reference) 2C005 HA30 HB20 JA09 JA15 JA24 JB12 JB22 JB32 LA08 LB15 LB33 LB46 LB55 2C061 JJ02 JJ07 JJ13 5B057 AA11 BA02 CA08 CA12 CA16 CB08 CB12 CB19 CC03 CD03 CE08 DA07 DA08 DB02 DB09 DC08 DC34 DC36 5B072 BB00 CC21 CC24 DD01 LL19 5C076 AA14 BA06

Claims (22)

[Claims] 1. A method for generating a printing image of embedded information, and a printing means for printing the printing image on a sticky valuable paper piece, wherein the printing means includes a used certificate processing for the valuable paper piece. The embedded information processing apparatus prints the print image of the embedded information in a form that can be extracted even if the above is performed. 2. The embedded information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the print image of the embedded information is a code block group including a plurality of code blocks arranged in a predetermined pattern. Embedded information processing device. 3. The embedded information processing device according to claim 2, wherein each of the code blocks has a pattern representing embedded information including common information common to each other and individual information different from each other. Embedded information processing device. 4. The embedded information processing device according to claim 3, wherein the individual information of each code block includes position information indicating a position where the code block exists on the valuable paper piece. Embedded information processing device. 5. The embedded information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the embedded information represented by each of the code blocks is for a predetermined process on an adherend to which the valuable paper piece is attached. The embedded information processing apparatus including the processing parameter information of 1., and performing a predetermined process based on the processing parameter information for the pasted object when the code block is read. 6. The embedded information processing device according to claim 2, wherein the code block is invisiblely printed. 7. The embedded information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein each of the code blocks is printed in an area of the valuable paper piece excluding a margin portion. Embedded information processing device. 8. The embedded information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the code blocks are cumulatively printed on a printed design. apparatus. 9. The embedded information processing device according to claim 2, wherein the code block is printed together with the design of the valuable paper piece. 10. The embedded information processing apparatus according to claim 9, wherein in printing the color on the design, printing is performed without using black ink. 11. The embedded information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the valuable paper piece is a stamp. 12. The embedded information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the printing unit prints a plurality of the printing images, so that the printing proof image is processed even if the valuable certificate is used. An embedded information processing device, which enables extraction of a file. 13. The embedded information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the used-certification processing is performed by imprinting a surface of a valuable paper piece with a predetermined ink, the printing unit performs the printing. An embedded information processing apparatus, wherein an image for printing is printed with ink or toner having a light absorption wavelength range different from that of the predetermined ink. 14. The embedded information processing apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the ink or toner having a light absorption wavelength range different from that of the predetermined ink is infrared absorption ink or infrared absorption toner. Embedded information processing device. 15. The embedded information processing apparatus according to claim 1, 12, 13 or 14, wherein the printing unit extracts the embedded information based on a printing image to read the valuable paper piece. An embedded information processing apparatus, which prints the printing image so as to be possible regardless of the direction. 16. The embedded information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the valuable paper piece is a print medium. 17. A process of generating a printing image of embedded information, and a printing process of printing the printing image on a valuable paper piece for sticking, wherein the printing step includes a used certificate processing for the valuable paper piece. The embedding information processing method, wherein the printing image of the embedding information is printed in a form that can be extracted even if the above is performed. 18. The embedded information processing method according to claim 17, wherein the print image of the embedded information is a code block group including a plurality of code blocks arranged in a predetermined pattern. Embedded information processing method. 19. The embedded information processing method according to claim 18, wherein each code block has a pattern representing embedded information including common information common to each other and individual information different from each other. Embedded information processing method. 20. A procedure of causing a computer to generate a print image of embedded information, and a procedure of printing the print image on a sticky valuable paper piece, wherein the valuable paper piece has been used-certified. And a procedure for printing the printing image of the embedded information in a manner that can also extract the embedded information processing program. 21. The embedded information processing program according to claim 20, wherein the printing image of the embedded information is a code block group including a plurality of code blocks arranged in a predetermined pattern. Embedded information processing program. 22. The embedded information processing program according to claim 21, wherein each of the code blocks has a pattern representing embedded information including common information common to each other and individual information different from each other. Embedded information processing program.