JP2004252601A - Image reader, image reader system and method for controlling image reader - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image reader for preventing the deviation of a reading position or a reading timing, an image reader system and a method for controlling the image reader. <P>SOLUTION: This image reader system is provided with a reading means 75 for periodically reading an image, an output instructing means 28 for instructing the output of image data based on the image read by the reading means and an output means 120 for outputting the image data based on the image read in several frames before the instruction point of time by the output instructing means. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO&NCIPI

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an image reader that periodically reads an image and outputs image data based on an output instruction from a user, an image reader system, and a control method of the image reader.
[0002]
[Prior art]
2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, POS terminals used in retail businesses such as supermarkets and convenience stores mainly use a barcode reader to read a barcode attached or printed on a product and acquire product information. . In general, this type of barcode reader performs illumination reading indicating the target position on an image to be read, and reading of the image and decoding of the read image data by the user pressing a trigger switch.
[0003]
[Patent Document 1]
JP-A-09-050478 (FIG. 1, etc.)
[0004]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, in such a method, when the user presses the trigger switch, particularly in the case of a non-contact image reader, the reading position is shifted from the image to be read, that is, the reading timing is delayed. There was a problem that it would. In addition, the vibration of the camera shake is transmitted to the image reader by the push button of the trigger switch, which further causes the shift of the reading position.
[0005]
The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and has as its object to provide an image reader, an image reader system, and a method of controlling an image reader that can prevent a shift in a reading position.
[0006]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
The image reader according to the present invention includes a reading unit that periodically reads an image, an output instruction unit that instructs output of image data based on the image read by the reading unit, and a frame several frames before the instruction pointed out by the output instruction unit. And output means for outputting image data based on the image read into the printer.
[0007]
Further, a control method of an image reader according to the present invention is characterized in that an image is read periodically, and image data based on the image read several frames before is output based on a user's instruction to output image data.
[0008]
According to these configurations, since the image data based on the image read several frames before is output retroactively from the time when the user gives the output instruction, it is possible to accurately output the image at the reading position desired by the user. it can. That is, when the user gives an output instruction, the reading position may be shifted from the image to be read. However, in the present invention, the image data of the image read several frames before is output (for example, For example, when reading an image of 15 frames per second, image data of an image read three frames before is output), so that an image can be read at a reading position desired by the user. In addition, when the output instruction is performed by pressing the switch, the shift of the reading position can be further eliminated because the influence of camera shake due to the switch pressing is eliminated.
[0009]
Another image reader according to the present invention includes a reading unit that periodically reads an image, an image data storage unit that stores the read image data in the reading order, and sequentially reads and decodes the image data stored in the image data storage unit. Decoding means for processing, decoded data storage means for storing decoded data which is decoded data until the decoding processing of the subsequent image data is completed, output instructing means for instructing output of image data, and output Output means for outputting the decoded data stored in the decoded data storage means at the time of the instruction by the instruction means.
[0010]
In addition, another image reader control method of the present invention includes a reading step of periodically reading an image, a decoded data generating step of decoding read image data in a reading order to generate decoded data, and A decoded data storing step of storing the data until the decoding processing of the subsequent image data is completed, and an outputting step of outputting the stored decoded data at the time of the instruction when a user gives an instruction to output the image data And characterized in that:
[0011]
According to these configurations, the decoded data stored at the time when the output instruction is issued by the user is output, so that the image at the reading position desired by the user can be output accurately. That is, when the user gives an output instruction, the reading position may be shifted from the image to be read, but in the present invention, decoded data after decoding processing is output (for example, for one second). When reading an image of 15 frames, decoded data based on the image read three frames before is output, for example), so that the image can be read at a reading position desired by the user. Further, since the decoded data that has been subjected to the decoding processing in advance is output, the output processing can be performed more quickly than in the case where the decoding processing is performed after the output instruction. Further, when an output instruction is given by pressing a switch, the influence of camera shake caused by the push of the switch is eliminated, so that the deviation of the reading position can be further reduced.
[0012]
In this case, the image forming apparatus further includes an illuminating unit that irradiates the reading position serving as a target of the reading unit with illumination light, and a determining unit that determines whether an image read by the reading unit is a specific image. When it is determined that the read image is a specific image, it is preferable that the illumination unit irradiates the reading position with illumination light.
[0013]
Further, in this case, in the determining step of determining whether the image read in the reading step is a specific image, and in the determining step, when it is determined that the read image is the specific image, the read position is set to a target reading position. And an illumination step of irradiating illumination light.
[0014]
According to these configurations, when it is determined that the read image is the specific image, the target reading position is irradiated with the illumination light, so that the user can accurately perform the operation without applying the illumination light. The reading position can be confirmed. Therefore, the reading position can be accurately adjusted to the image to be read. Further, by irradiating the illumination light, clear image data can be output.
[0015]
In this case, it is preferable that the illumination unit irradiates the illumination light from the time when the determination unit determines that the read image is the specific image to the time when the output instruction unit instructs.
[0016]
In this case, in the illumination step, it is preferable to irradiate the illumination light from a point in time when the read image is determined to be the specific image to a point in time when an instruction to output image data is issued in the determination step.
[0017]
According to these configurations, the illumination light is irradiated until the output instruction is issued. In other words, the illumination light is turned off at the time the output instruction is issued, so that the user is notified that the output instruction has been recognized. Can be. In addition, since the need for illumination light is eliminated when the output instruction is issued, useless power consumption can be suppressed.
[0018]
In these cases, the specific image is preferably a barcode.
[0019]
According to this configuration, the present invention can be applied to a barcode reader that reads a barcode (including a one-dimensional code and a two-dimensional code).
[0020]
In these cases, there is further provided a notifying means for notifying a decoding determination result as to whether or not the decoding processing has been normally performed in the decoding means and / or an output determination result as to whether or not the decoded data has been normally output in the output means. Is preferred.
[0021]
According to this configuration, the user is notified of the decoding determination result as to whether the decoding process has been performed normally and / or the output determination result as to whether the decoded data has been output normally. Or you can check the output result. It should be noted that the notification method may be a method of visually notifying the user by display or a method of audibly notifying the user by sound (beep sound or the like).
[0022]
The image reader system of the present invention is an image reader system configured by the image reader described above and a host computer that receives image data transmitted from the image reader. It is characterized by comprising any one of an image data storage unit, a decoding unit, a decoded data storage unit, an output instruction unit, an output unit, a determination unit, and a notification unit.
[0023]
According to this configuration, since various processes and the like are performed on the host computer side, high-speed processing can be performed, and at the same time, correspondence with new symbols and data of a predetermined standard (such as OCR data) is determined on the host computer side. It can be easily performed only by rewriting the software. In addition, since the image reader does not need to perform a decoding process or the like, the control configuration of the image reader can be simplified, and it is possible to manufacture the image reader at low cost.
[0024]
In this case, it is preferable that the host computer further includes image display means for displaying an image read by the reading means.
[0025]
According to this configuration, since the read image is displayed, the user can perform the reading operation while checking the image. Therefore, the target reading position can be accurately adjusted to the image to be read.
[0026]
In these cases, it is preferable that the host computer has a POS application and performs accounting based on the image data transmitted from the image reader.
[0027]
According to this configuration, the present invention can be used in a so-called POS terminal having a POS application. Therefore, it is possible to provide a POS terminal using an image reader that can eliminate the displacement of the reading position.
[0028]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, an image reader, an image reader system, and an image reader control method according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The image reader of the present invention outputs the image data based on the image read several frames before, retroactively from the time when the user instructed the output, thereby accurately determining the image at the reading position or reading timing desired by the user. It can be output. Further, even when an image output instruction is issued by pressing the trigger switch, the image read before the output instruction is output, so that the influence of camera shake is eliminated and the deviation of the reading position can be further eliminated.
[0029]
Accordingly, a POS system provided with an image reader that reads bar codes (one-dimensional code and two-dimensional code) and other images and used in stores such as supermarkets and convenience stores will be described below as an example.
[0030]
As shown in FIG. 1, a POS system 1 according to the present invention includes a plurality of POS systems that acquire accounting information (hereinafter, referred to as “POS data”) by reading a bar code mainly attached to a product by an operator (user). Is connected to the POS terminal 10 via a network (LAN) 160 and manages input information input to the POS terminal 10. And a POS server 170.
[0031]
The POS server 170 has, in addition to the control device (CPU) 171, memories such as a ROM 173 and a RAM 174 and various masters 175. Based on input information transmitted from the POS terminal 10, a product code, a product name, Information on the amount of money is extracted, and merchandise data used for printing on the receipt 61 (see FIG. 2) and displaying on the display 42 of the POS terminal 10 is generated. The “product data” is data that is a source of print data generated by the POS terminal 10 and includes information such as a product name printed on the receipt 61 and the amount of the product.
[0032]
In addition, the POS server 170 acquires, from the POS terminal 10, image information on an image read by the image reader 20 in addition to the above input information, and also manages the image information. The image information includes, for example, image data obtained by reading a license or the like, and text data obtained by reading characters and numbers such as a member number, and is used for customer management and the like.
[0033]
On the other hand, the POS terminal 10 includes an image reader 20 that reads a one-dimensional code, a two-dimensional code, and other images, performs image processing of image data transmitted from the image reader 20, and has a POS application 280. A host computer 40 that performs accounting processing such as generating print data to be printed on the receipt 61 by referring to the product data transmitted from the server 170, and a printing device 50 that prints on the receipt 61 based on the print data. (Receipt printer) and are connected to each other via connectors 46, 53, 54 (see FIG. 2).
[0034]
The host computer 40 acquires input information such as product information on the product by inputting with the keyboard 43 or reading a barcode with the image reader 20. Further, the credit card (magnetic card) of the customer is read by the card reader 45 to obtain information on credit settlement. Further, it has a display 42 for displaying merchandise information generated based on the merchandise data transmitted from the POS server 170, and presents the price of the purchased merchandise to the customer.
[0035]
The host computer 40 is controlled by an OPOS (OLE for Retail POS) object 260 that runs on an OS 230 such as Windows (registered trademark). The OPOS object 260 provides the POS application 280 with a model-independent interface with peripheral devices such as the image reader 20 and the printing apparatus 50. The OPOS object 260 includes a control object (CO) 261 and a service object (CO). SO) 262.
[0036]
The CO 261 is an object provided for each device class such as the image reader 20 and the printing device 50, and controls an interface with the POS application 280. The SO 262 is an object provided for each device model, and controls each device via the OS 230. Therefore, the image data (POS data) transmitted from the image reader 20 is transferred to the SO 262 corresponding to the model of the image reader 20 via the OS 230, and is transferred from the SO 262 to the CO 261 for the image reader 20. Then, when the image data is delivered from the CO 261 to the POS application 280, the accounting process is executed. The OPOS object 260 is provided to the user together with the image reader driver 240 (see FIG. 8) in a form in which the CO 261 and the SO 262 are combined.
[0037]
The printing device 50 is an inkjet printer that performs printing by an inkjet method, and includes a printing unit 51 having six inkjet heads. These inkjet heads 55 eject full-color printing by ejecting M (magenta), C (cyan), Y (yellow), LM (light magenta), LC (light cyan), and K (black) inks, respectively. It is configured to be able to.
[0038]
Next, the device configuration of the POS terminal 10 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1A is a front perspective view of the POS terminal 10 as viewed from an operation side by an operator, and FIG. 2B is a rear perspective view of the POS terminal 10 as viewed from a customer. As shown in both figures, the POS terminal 10 includes a host computer 40 which forms a main part by a box-shaped main body case 48, an image reader 20 connected thereto via a cable 33, and a rear left side of the main body case 48. And a printing device 50 arranged in the printer.
[0039]
The host computer 40 has a keyboard 43 on the front upper surface of the main body case 48 for an operator to input product information and price, and an operator display 42a for the operator to confirm input information on the rear right side. Houses a cash drawer 49. The right side surface of the main body case 48 is provided with a main body side interface 47 for connecting to the image reader 20 for reading an image such as a bar code attached or printed on a product. A card reader slot 45 for reading the presented credit card is formed. Further, on the back side of the main body case 48, a customer display 42b for a customer to check product information and the like is arranged. The image read by the image reader 20 is displayed on the operator-side display 42a, and the operator performs an imaging operation while checking the image.
[0040]
Further, the image reader 20 has a cable attachment port 32 (see FIG. 3B) formed at the lower end of the gripping portion 24, and a cable 33 and a host-side interface 47 provided in the host computer 40. They are connected via a connector 46 (detailed device configuration will be described later).
[0041]
The printing device 50 has an operation display lamp 65 and a printing device interface 51 on its front side. The printing device interface 51 and the host interface 52 provided in the host computer 40 are connected to each other by a cable. 63 and connectors 53 and 54. On the upper surface of the printing device 50, a receipt outlet 64 for discharging the printed receipt 61 is formed.
[0042]
Here, the device configuration of the image reader 20 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. FIG. 3A is a plan view of the image reader 20 as viewed from the side, and FIG. 3B is a plan view of the image reader 20 as viewed from the back. FIG. 4A is an external perspective view of a state in which the tip (second hood) of the hood is removed from the main body, and FIG. 4B is a diagram illustrating the tip of the hood (second hood) attached to the main body. It is an external appearance perspective view in the state where it was mounted. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the image reader 20 as viewed from the side, and FIG. 6 is an enlarged perspective view of the illumination block 73.
[0043]
As shown in these drawings, the image reader 20 includes an apparatus main body 21 and a hood (abutting member) 22 formed so as to protrude from the apparatus main body 21. (See FIG. 5) by contacting the object support 12 on which is mounted or affixed (see FIG. 5).
[0044]
The apparatus main body 21 is made of a plastic material or the like and has a hollow structure, and has a holding part 24 that is held by a user (operator) with one hand, and an imaging unit housing part 23 in which the imaging unit 70 is housed. Inside, a circuit board 76 on which circuit components are mounted is housed. The gripping part 24 is formed integrally by fitting a front case 24a and a rear case 24b, and a decoding result and an output result of the read image (both are processed by the host computer 40) are formed on the upper part of the rear case 24b. ) Based on the light color.
[0045]
In addition, a cable attachment port 32 is formed in a lower portion of the rear case 24b, and is connected to a host-side interface 47 via a cable 33 and a connector 46 (see FIG. 2A). Further, four recesses 29 are formed on the front side of the front case 24a, and the user's forefinger to little finger are accommodated in the recesses 29 in order from the upper side. Further, a trigger switch 28 for instructing imaging is formed in the uppermost concave portion 29, and the trigger switch 28 is pressed with the index finger of the user. As described above, by storing the trigger switch 28 inside the outer contour line of the apparatus main body 21, it is possible to prevent the switch from being turned on due to the apparatus main body 21 falling down or falling. Further, a through hole 30 for screwing to the rear case is formed in the lowermost concave portion 29.
[0046]
The hood 22 has a first hood (a first abutting member) 25 integrally formed with the apparatus main body 21 and a second hood (a second abutting member) 26 which is configured to be detachable therefrom. The imaging distance L (the distance from the imaging lens 71a to the imaging object 15: see FIG. 5) can be adjusted in two stages depending on whether or not the second hood 26 is attached. The adjustment of the imaging distance L is performed according to the size and the definition of the imaging target object 15, and details thereof will be described later.
[0047]
Each of the first hood 25 and the second hood 26 is made of a plastic material having translucency (transparent or translucent), and the user can position the imaging target 15 while checking the imaging target 15 through the hood 22. I can do it. In addition, since external light can be taken in, the imaging target 15 can be imaged more clearly.
[0048]
Also, the first hood 25 has a U-shaped recessed portion 25a at the distal end thereof, and a second hood is inserted into an insertion slit (not shown) formed around the recessed portion 25a. When the peripheral edge of the convex portion 26a formed on the rear end side of the 26 is mounted, a microswitch (not shown) arranged near the concave position 25a detects this, and specifies the imaging distance L (first imaging distance). L1: See FIG. 9 (a)). When the second hood 26 separates, it is determined that the imaging distance L has changed (shortened), and the imaging distance L2 is specified (second imaging distance L2: see FIG. 9B). As described above, the image reader 20 of the present embodiment can specify the imaging distance L more reliably and quickly with a simple structure that only detects the attachment / detachment of the second hood 26. Note that the center of the concave position 26a is slightly depressed, and functions as a finger hook for attaching and detaching.
[0049]
When the second hood 26 is detached, the power is automatically turned on. In other words, the user detaches the second hood 26 from the first hood 25 when it is considered that the user wants to image the imaging target 15 with higher definition. For example, the power supply operation by such as can be omitted.
[0050]
An imaging unit 70 is housed in the imaging unit housing unit 23. The imaging unit 70 includes a lens block 71 including a lens 71a, a diaphragm and a filter (both not shown), and an imaging block that captures an image of the imaging target 15. 75, an illumination block 73 for irradiating the imaging object 15 with illumination light, and a surface cover 74 formed of a transparent acrylic resin plate or a glass plate for blocking obstructions such as dust. .
[0051]
As the lens block 71, an imaging lens 71a having a depth of field corresponding to two types of imaging distances L that vary depending on the presence or absence of the second hood 26 is used, and a filter 71b that attenuates and removes unnecessary infrared light is used. The imaging lens 71a and the filter 71b are integrally formed.
[0052]
The imaging block 75 includes an imaging sensor (reading unit) 75a that detects reflected light from the imaging target 15, and the imaging sensor 75a periodically (15 frames per second in the present embodiment) outputs an image. Is being read. The imaging sensor 75a uses an area sensor, and can read any two-dimensional image including one-dimensional codes and two-dimensional codes. Note that a CCD (Charge-Coupled Devices) is used as an imaging element (photoelectric conversion element), but a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor) having low power consumption may be used instead.
[0053]
As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the illumination block (illumination member) 73 includes a plurality of LEDs 73 a, an LED support 73 b on which the plurality of LEDs 73 a are provided, and a linear light from the illumination block 73 to the imaging target 15. The light from the LED 73a is uniformly diffused by the diffusion plate 73c arranged on the road. Further, on the LED support 73b, the twelve LEDs 73a are uniformly arranged around the imaging lens 71a while suppressing the illumination intensity per one. Thereby, even when the object having a glossy surface is irradiated, it is possible to eliminate the problem that a part of the image obtained by reflecting the illumination light becomes completely white (saturated state).
[0054]
In the lighting block 73, when the host computer 40 determines that the image periodically read by the imaging sensor 75a is a specific image (for example, a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code), the user presses the trigger switch 28. Until the lighting is done. For this reason, the user can save the trouble of performing the operation for irradiating the illumination light. Further, the illumination light irradiates the target reading position, so that the user can accurately confirm the reading position.
[0055]
By the way, although the details will be described later, in the present embodiment, an image read several frames before (for example, three frames before) from the time when the user pressed the trigger switch 28 is output. Therefore, when the user presses the trigger switch 28, the image to be output has already been read, and there is no need to emit illumination light. Therefore, irradiation of the illumination light is stopped in order to avoid wasteful power consumption and to notify the user that the push button of the trigger switch 28 has been recognized.
[0056]
Next, a control configuration of the image reader 20 and the host computer 40 will be described with reference to a control block diagram of FIG. The image reader 20 includes an imaging lens 71 a for imaging reflected light from the imaging target 15, an imaging sensor 75 a (CCD) for imaging the imaging target 15, image reading (imaging), and the host computer 40. A control unit 80 for transmitting data to the CPU, a trigger switch 28 for a user to instruct an image output (imaging), an LED display unit 31 for displaying a decoding result and an output result of the read image in a light color, A buzzer 86 for notifying the user that the output processing has been normally performed by a beep sound is connected to the control unit 80, and monitors and controls the trigger switch 28, the LED display unit 31, and the buzzer 86. And an I / O (input / output) port 85.
[0057]
The control unit 80 drives a CCD 75 a and converts the analog image data output from the CCD 75 a into digital image data. The CCD-DSP (Charge-Coupled Devices Digital Signal Processor) 81 converts the image data into JPEG format. A JPEG conversion circuit (data compression means) 82 for converting data into data and compressing the data to about 1/10, a USB interface (USB1.1) 84 for transmitting the compressed image data to the host computer 40, A RAM 83 used as a buffer memory when transferring image data via the USB interface.
[0058]
On the other hand, the host computer 40 stores an operator's display 42 a for the operator to confirm input information and the like, a keyboard 43 for inputting the input information and the amount, etc. A cash drawer 49 that is opened based on the information, a printing device 50 that prints product information and the amount of money on a receipt 61, a customer display 42b that displays the amount of money to a customer, and a control unit 110 that controls these. It is configured. The host computer 40 is connected to a POS server 170 via a network (LAN) 160, and transmits input information to the POS server 170 and receives product data (see FIG. 1). ).
[0059]
The control unit 110 has a CPU 120 for controlling the entire host computer 40, a ROM 130 for storing control data including control programs and various tables processed by the CPU 120, and various work areas, and is used as a work area for control processing. RAM 140 and an IOC (Input Output Controller) 150 that outputs output data and control signals output from the CPU 120 and the like to each unit and inputs input data and control signals from each unit. It controls decompression processing and decoding processing of the transmitted image data.
[0060]
Here, an image processing method controlled by the control unit 110 of the host computer 40 will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in the figure, image data transmitted from the image reader 20 via the USB interface (USB 1.1) 84 is adapted to the OS 230 such as Windows (registered trademark), and between the image reader 20 and the image data. The image data or the decoded data is transmitted to the POS application 280 via the image reader driver 240 having the image data and the decoding library 250 for performing the decompression processing and the decoding processing of the image data. The decoding library 250 can be configured to include the character recognition library 251. In this case, the decoded data includes text format data.
[0061]
As described above, according to the present invention, by transmitting image data via the USB interface 84, high-speed transfer of image data can be performed, and the processing speed can be improved. Furthermore, since the compressed data (image data) compressed by the JPEG conversion circuit 82 (see FIG. 7) of the image reader 20 is transferred, the data transfer can be performed at a higher speed. In the present embodiment, USB 1.1 is used as the USB interface 84, but an interface capable of higher-speed transfer, such as USB 2.0, may be used. In this case, the JPEG conversion circuit 82 of the image reader 20 and the compression / decompression processing in the decode library 250 may be omitted. According to this configuration, the device configuration can be further simplified.
[0062]
Further, the image reader driver 240 and the decode library 250 are provided to the user in a state of being stored on one recording medium. With this configuration, the user can easily and quickly perform installation on the host computer 40. As a recording medium, a CD-ROM, a flash ROM, a memory card (compact flash (registered trademark), smart media, a memory stick, or the like), a compact disk, a magneto-optical disk, a digital versatile disk, a flexible disk, or the like can be used. it can.
[0063]
The transmission path includes a first path for directly transmitting image data (that is, data of an image itself before being decoded by the decode library 250; hereinafter, also referred to as image format data) to the POS application 280; There are three types of routes: a second route for transmitting the completed data directly to the POS application 280, and a third route for transmitting the decoded data to the POS application 280 via the OPOS object 260 and the OPOS interface 290. Which path is used for transmission is determined as follows by the transmission path selecting means 281 of the POS application 280.
[0064]
In the case of the POS application 280 conforming to the OPOS standard, when the POS application 280 acquires decoded data conforming to the OPOS standard, the POS application 280 calls the OPOS object 260 via the OPOS interface 290, and the OPOS object 260 Call 250 decoded data acquisition API (Application Program Interface). When the POS application 280 acquires decoded data that does not conform to the OPOS standard, the POS application 280 directly calls the decoded data acquisition API of the decode library 250 without passing through the OPOS interface 290 or the OPOS object 260. Further, when acquiring the image data, the POS application 280 directly calls the image data acquisition API of the decode library 250 without passing through the OPOS interface 290 or the OPOS object 260.
[0065]
On the other hand, in the case of the POS application 280 that does not conform to the OPOS standard (in the case of an application with a unique specification), when the POS application 280 acquires the decoded data, whether the decoded data conforms to the OPOS standard Regardless of whether or not it is determined, the decoded data acquisition API of the decode library 250 is directly called. When acquiring image data, the POS application 280 directly calls the image data acquisition API of the decode library 250.
[0066]
As described above, according to the image processing method of the present invention, since the decoding process of the image data is performed by the decoding library 250 incorporated in the host computer 40, high-speed processing is enabled, and new symbols and predetermined symbols can be set. It is possible to easily deal with data (such as OCR data) of an unspecified standard only by rewriting (changing) the decode library 250. On the other hand, the image reader 20 does not need to perform the decoding process, so that the control configuration can be simplified, and thus the image reader 20 can be manufactured at low cost.
[0067]
In addition, since data conforming to the OPOS standard is transmitted to the POS application 280 via the OPOS object 260, the POS application 280 (for example, a barcode reader or the like) which has been used conventionally can be changed by changing the service object (SO layer). The POS application used when connected and used) can be used as it is.
[0068]
In addition, the POS application 280 can capture not only decoded data but also image data that has not been decoded into the POS application 280.
[0069]
Next, a method for detecting an imaging distance and a method for correcting distortion of the image reader 20 will be described with reference to FIGS. As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the image reader 20 of the present invention includes a first imaging distance L1 when the second hood 26 is mounted (see FIG. 9A) and a first imaging distance L1 when the second hood 26 is detached. The imaging distance L can be changed to any of the two imaging distances L2 (see FIG. 3B).
[0070]
The user selects one of the imaging distances L in accordance with the size and type (definition) of the imaging target object 15. For example, when reading a wide one-dimensional code, the first imaging distance L1 having a wide imaging range is selected. When reading a high-definition two-dimensional code, imaging is preferably performed at the second imaging distance L2 having a narrow imaging range. That is, when a high resolution is not required or when a large image capturing target 15 is read, the imaging range can be widened by attaching the second hood 26. When reading the high-definition imaging object 15, the imaging distance L can be shortened by removing the second hood 26 to improve the apparent resolution (enlarge the image projected on the imaging sensor 75a). it can. For this reason, it is possible to image from the wide imaging object 15 to the high-definition imaging object 15 via the same imaging lens 71a.
[0071]
The image reader 20 transmits information on the presence or absence of the second hood 26 detected by a detection sensor such as a microswitch to the host computer 40, and the host computer 40 specifies the imaging distance L based on this information. Then, based on this information, the decode library 250 (see FIG. 8) corrects the distortion of the output image of the imaging sensor 75a based on the three-dimensional displacement between the imaging lens 71a and the imaging object 15.
[0072]
Here, the distortion correction method will be described in detail. When the imaging object 15 is imaged, when the imaging lens 71a and the imaging object 15 are in a parallel surface positional relationship, there is no three-dimensional displacement, and no distortion occurs in the output image (FIG. 9). reference). However, since the user grips the image reader 20 and captures the image of the imaging target 15 in a state where only the tip of the first hood 25 or the second hood 26 is in contact with the target support 12, the gripping part 24 is The image is displaced in the up-down direction or the left-right direction, and accordingly, the output image is distorted (see FIG. 10).
[0073]
Therefore, in order to obtain an output image without distortion as shown in FIG. 9, distortion is corrected by the decode library 250. Specifically, for example, in the case of a two-dimensional code (QR code) as shown in FIG. 9B, the degree of distortion is determined based on the degree of distortion of the prescribed pattern (rectangular square). When the two-dimensional code of the imaging target 15 is a Maxi code as shown in FIG. 10A, the degree of distortion is determined based on the degree of distortion of the circular prescribed pattern arranged at the center of the pattern. However, since the correction amount changes when the imaging distance L is different even for the same degree of distortion, highly accurate correction can be performed by detecting the imaging distance L and using this as a parameter.
[0074]
The distortion correction formula for correcting the distortion is as shown in FIG. 11B. By substituting the imaging distance L (the distance from the imaging lens 71a to the imaging object 15) into the variable Z, XY is obtained. Correction of coordinates can be performed. Note that a distortion correction table may be stored instead of the distortion correction formula (correction program), and the XY coordinates may be corrected according to the imaging distance L. According to this configuration, the distortion of the image data can be easily corrected only by referring to the table.
[0075]
As described above, since the image reader 20 of the present invention detects the imaging distance L depending on whether or not the second hood 26 is attached, it is possible to more accurately and reliably detect the imaging distance L. In addition, since the imaging distance L can be adjusted with a simple configuration in which only the second hood 26 is mounted, adjustment and detection of the imaging distance L can be performed at lower cost than when a distance sensor or the like is used. Can be. Furthermore, since the imaging range can be changed by adjusting the imaging distance L, imaging can be performed from a high-resolution imaging object 15 (such as a two-dimensional code) to a wide imaging object 15 (such as a wide barcode). It is possible to enlarge the range of the target object.
[0076]
In the above example, the image sensor 75a is configured by one area sensor. However, two sensors, a linear sensor and an area sensor, may be provided as the image sensor 75a. In this case, when the second hood 26 is attached, an image may be taken by a linear sensor, and when the second hood 26 is not attached, an image may be taken by an area sensor. According to these configurations, when the second hood 26 is mounted, the imaging distance L becomes longer, so that the imaging object 15 (a large-sized object used in the FA field or the distribution field) that is wider using the linear sensor is used. Size barcode). Further, when the second hood 26 is not mounted, the imaging distance L becomes short, so that it is possible to image the imaging object 15 (such as a two-dimensional code) with high definition using the area sensor. That is, by performing imaging using an appropriate imaging sensor 75a corresponding to the imaging distance L, the range of the target that can be imaged can be expanded.
[0077]
In this case, the determination as to which of the linear sensor and the area sensor is to be used for image sensing is made regardless of whether the second hood 26 is attached or not, by a user's instruction (such as pressing a switch corresponding to one of the two hoods). Or may be determined by the imaging target 15 (one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code).
[0078]
Next, an image reading method and an image output method in the image reader 20 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 12 shows the flow of data from the image reader driver 240 to the decode library 250 in the host computer 40. As shown in FIG. 12, the data is transmitted via the USB interface 84 of the image reader 20 and the image reader driver 240. The image data acquired in this way is temporarily stored in a main memory 310 having N frame buffers, and then stored in a decoding buffer 252 to perform a decoding process.
[0079]
Then, when the user presses the trigger switch 28 of the image reader 20, the decoded data stored in the decoding buffer 252 is output as an output image. Therefore, in the case of the present embodiment in which image reading of 15 frames is performed per second, image data based on an image read about 2 to 5 frames ago is output, for example.
[0080]
Therefore, the image output process will be described step by step with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. FIG. 13 shows a processing sequence in the image reader driver 240. After initialization (S1), the frame buffer pointer 1 points to the first frame buffer 1 in the main memory 310 (S2). When one frame of image data is transmitted via the USB interface 84, the image data is written (stored) in the frame buffer indicated by the frame buffer pointer 1 (S3). After that, the buffer pointed by the frame buffer pointer 1 is incremented to frame buffer 2, frame buffer 3,... Frame buffer N, and the frame buffer N is returned to the frame buffer 1 (S4).
[0081]
Next, FIG. 14 shows a processing sequence in the decode library 250. After initialization (S11), the frame buffer pointer 2 points to the first frame buffer 1 in the main memory (S12), and the display LED 31 (see FIG. 3B) on the back side of the apparatus main body 21 It emits red light (S13).
The image data in the frame buffer indicated by the frame buffer pointer 2 is read and copied to the decoding buffer 252 (S14).
[0082]
The image data stored in the decoding buffer 252 is decompressed by the decoding library 250 (S15), and when the decompression processing result is a specific image (here, a barcode) (S16: Yes), The LED 73a for illumination (see FIG. 6) is turned on, and the reading position is irradiated with illumination light (S17). On the other hand, when the specific image is not detected (S16: No), the reading of the image is periodically repeated, and the display red LED 31 is kept on (S13).
[0083]
The image data stored in the decoding buffer 252 is copied to a display buffer (not shown), and the image data in the display buffer is displayed on the operator display 42a (see FIG. 2). The user gives an image output instruction (presses the trigger switch 28) while checking the operator display 42a. The decoded data stored in the decoding buffer 252 is stored until the decoding of the next image data is completed, and is overwritten and erased when the decoding of the next image data is completed.
[0084]
After turning on the illumination LED 73a (S17), if the user does not detect the push button of the trigger switch 28 (S23: No), the image data in the frame buffer indicated by the frame buffer pointer 2 is read and decoded. Copying to the buffer 252 is continued (S18). The image data stored in the decoding buffer 252 is decompressed and decoded by the decoding library 250 (S19). If decoding is successful (S20: Yes), the display LED 31 emits green light (S20). S22). That is, the green LED 31 notifies the user that the decoding process has been performed normally.
[0085]
On the other hand, if the decoding process has not been performed normally (S20: No), the illumination LED 73a is turned off (S21), and the display LED 31 emits red light (S13). That is, the red LED 31 notifies the user that the decoding process has not been performed normally. When red or green is displayed on these display LEDs 31, the user may be notified of the status of the decoding process simultaneously with a beep sound or voice. According to this configuration, the user can visually and audibly check the status of the decoding process.
[0086]
Next, it is determined whether or not the trigger switch 28 has been pressed by the user. If the trigger switch 28 has been pressed (S23: Yes), the illumination LED 73a is turned off (S24), and the trigger event is sent to the POS application. 280 is notified (S25), and a buzzer is sounded to indicate to the user that the image output processing has been normally performed (S26). The image output at this time is decoded data stored in the decoding buffer 252. Therefore, an image read several frames earlier than when the trigger switch 28 is pressed is output. However, when the user proceeds with the operation while checking the operator display 42a, the image is displayed on the screen. The image becomes closer to the image at the time of confirmation.
[0087]
In other words, when an image is read at the time when the user gives an output instruction, the target reading position of the image reader 20 may be shifted from the image to be read. Since the image data of the read image is output, the image can be read at a reading position desired by the user.
This configuration reads an image in a state in which the user grips the grip portion 24 (a state in which the user is not standing still) even if the image is a still image. It is valid. Further, when the imaging target object 15 is not a stationary object (for example, in the case of a moving image), a difference between an image conscious of the user and an output image due to a shift in reading timing appears remarkably. be able to.
[0088]
After the image output process is performed normally and the trigger event is notified to the POS application 280 (S25), the display LED 31 emits red light again (S13), and the detection of the specific image (here, a barcode) is detected. wait. When the trigger switch 28 is not pressed while the display LED 31 is emitting green light (S23: No), the decoding buffer is sequentially started from each frame buffer in the main memory 310 while the LED 31 is displayed in green. 252, the image data is copied, and the decoding process is continued (S18 to S22).
[0089]
In the above example, a barcode is taken as an example of a specific image, but the type of barcode is limited (one-dimensional code, two-dimensional code, specific code, or the like), and illumination light is emitted. You may do it. Further, the illumination light is not limited to the barcode, and may be illuminated when a specific pattern corresponding to the application is detected.
[0090]
Next, FIG. 15 shows a processing sequence in the POS application 280. After the initialization (S41), if a trigger event occurs (S42: Yes), a decoding result (decoded data) is obtained from the decoding library 250 (S43). Then, processing corresponding to the decoding result (for example, when the decoding result is a product code, transmitting this to the POS server 170 or generating print data for creating the receipt 61) is performed. Perform (S44).
[0091]
As described above, according to the image output method of the present invention, the image data based on the image read several frames before is output retroactively from the time when the user gives the output instruction. ) (The image confirmed on the operator display 42a) can be output accurately. Further, in the case of the present embodiment, the output instruction is performed by the push button of the trigger switch 28, but the influence of the camera shake by the push button of the trigger switch 28 is eliminated, so that the deviation of the reading position can be further eliminated.
[0092]
Further, at the time when the output instruction is given by the user, the decoded data stored in the decoding buffer 252 is output, so that the output processing is performed more quickly than in the case where the decoding processing is performed after the output instruction. be able to.
[0093]
Further, when it is determined that the read image is a specific image, the reading position to be a target of the image reader 20 is irradiated with the illumination light, so that the user can accurately read the image without performing the operation for applying the illumination light. You can check the position. Further, by irradiating the illumination light, clear image data can be output.
[0094]
As described above, according to the image reader, the image reader system, and the image reader control method of the present invention, since the host computer 40 performs the decoding processing of the image data, high-speed processing becomes possible, Correspondence to symbols and data of a predetermined standard (such as OCR data) can be easily performed only by rewriting the decode library 250. Further, by reading an image with the image reader 20, the read image data itself can be taken into the POS application 280.
[0095]
Furthermore, since the image reader 20 does not need to perform the decoding process, the control configuration of the image reader 20 can be simplified, and the image reader 20 can be manufactured at low cost. Also, by changing the service object (SO layer) 262 of the OPOS object 260, the POS application 280 (for example, a POS application used when a barcode reader or the like is connected and used) that has been used conventionally can be used as it is. Can be.
[0096]
In addition, since the decoded data stored at the time when the output instruction is given by the user is output, it is possible to eliminate the deviation of the reading position. Furthermore, since the decoded data that has been subjected to the decoding processing in advance is output, the image output processing can be quickly performed.
[0097]
In the above example, the case where the USB interface 84 is used as the communication interface between the image reader 20 and the host computer 40 has been described as an example. However, a general-purpose serial port such as RS-232C or CMOS interface, and a high-speed serial An IEEE 1394 bus, an infrared interface using no cable, a wireless interface, and the like are also applicable.
[0098]
In the above example, the imaging distance L can be adjusted in two stages depending on whether or not the second hood 26 is attached or detached (see FIG. 9). However, the first hood 25 can accommodate the second hood. Alternatively, the imaging distance L may be adjusted more finely according to the amount of protrusion of the second hood 26. According to this configuration, it is possible to adjust the imaging distance L to a more suitable one according to the size and complexity of the imaging target object 15. In addition, the shape of the hood 22 is not limited to the shape exemplified in the examples, such as a configuration having two wires that can be accommodated in the main body, and a configuration having a tubular or box shape.
[0099]
Further, irrespective of the example of the POS system 1 described above, for example, a system configuration and an apparatus configuration such as a stand-alone type ECR and a cash register which are not connected to the POS server 170 may be appropriately changed without departing from the gist of the present invention. It is possible.
[0100]
In addition to the POS system 1, the present invention can be applied to an information recognition system using an OCR (for example, a recognition system for checking (check), license, license plate, ID card, ticket, etc.). is there. In addition, the present invention provides a system for acquiring, storing, and managing an image itself (management system for a product image, a photograph of a customer's face, a hairstyle, an affected part, and the like), and a biometrics (a face authentication device). It is applicable in various fields.
[0101]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the image reader, the image reader system, and the image reader control method of the present invention, the image data based on the image read several frames before is output retroactively from the time when the user gives the output instruction. Therefore, there is an effect that an image at a reading position or a reading timing desired by the user can be accurately output.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram showing an example of a POS system of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is an external perspective view of a POS terminal constituting the POS system of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a plan view of the image reader of the present invention as viewed from the side and back.
FIG. 4 is an external perspective view of the image reader of the present invention.
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the image reader of the present invention as viewed from the side.
FIG. 6 is an enlarged perspective view of a lighting block in the image reader of the present invention.
FIG. 7 is a control block diagram of the image reader and the host computer of the present invention.
FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing a control configuration in a control unit of the host computer of the present invention.
FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an image reader of the present invention and its imaging range.
FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an image reader of the present invention and distortion of an output image thereof.
FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of an imaging target object and a distortion correction formula.
FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram illustrating writing / reading of image data in an image reader driver and a decode library of the host computer of the present invention.
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a processing sequence in the image reader driver of the present invention.
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a processing sequence in the decode library of the present invention.
FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a processing sequence in the POS application of the present invention.
[Explanation of symbols]
REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 POS system 10 POS terminal 12 object support 15 imaging object 20 image reader 21 device main body 22 hood 23 imaging unit housing 24 gripping part 25 first hood 26 second hood 28 trigger switch 31 LED display unit 40 host computer 50 Printing storage 70 Imaging unit 71 Lens block 71a Imaging lens 73 Illumination block 75 Imaging block 75a Imaging sensor 160 LAN
170 POS server 240 Image reader driver 250 Decoding library 260 OPOS object 280 POS application

Claims (13)

Reading means for periodically reading images,
Output instructing means for instructing output of image data based on the image read by the reading means,
An output unit that outputs image data based on the image read several frames before the time point instructed by the output instruction unit. Reading means for periodically reading images,
Image data storage means for storing the read image data in the reading order;
Decoding means for sequentially reading the image data stored in the image data storage means and performing a decoding process;
Decoded data storage means for storing decoded data, which is the decoded data, until decoding of the subsequent image data is completed;
Output instructing means for instructing output of the image data,
An output unit for outputting decoded data stored in the decoded data storage unit at the time of the instruction by the output instruction unit. Illuminating means for irradiating a reading position to be a target of the reading means with illumination light,
Determining means for determining whether the image read by the reading means is a specific image,
The image reader according to claim 2, wherein when the determination unit determines that the read image is the specific image, the illumination unit irradiates the illumination light to the reading position. 4. The illumination device according to claim 3, wherein the illumination unit irradiates the illumination light from a point in time when the determination unit determines that the read image is the specific image to a point in time specified by the output instruction unit. Image reader. The image reader according to claim 3, wherein the specific image is a barcode. And a notifying means for notifying the decoding result of whether or not the decoding processing has been normally performed in the decoding means and / or the output discriminating result of whether or not the decoded data has been normally output in the output means. The image reader according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein: An image reader system comprising an image reader according to claim 6 and a host computer that receives image data transmitted from the image reader,
Instead of the image reader, any one of the image data storage unit, the decoding unit, the decoded data storage unit, the output instruction unit, the output unit, the determination unit, or the notification unit is provided on the host computer side. An image reader system, comprising: The image reader system according to claim 7, wherein the host computer further includes an image display unit that displays an image read by the reading unit. 9. The image reader system according to claim 7, wherein the host computer has a POS application, and performs accounting processing based on image data transmitted from the image reader. 10. An image reader control method, comprising: periodically reading an image, and outputting the image data based on the image read several frames before, based on a user's instruction to output image data. A reading process for reading images periodically;
A decoded data generation step of decoding the read image data in the reading order to generate decoded data;
A decoded data storing step of storing the decoded data until decoding of the subsequent image data is completed;
An output step of outputting the decoded data stored at the point in time when an instruction to output the image data is made by a user. A determining step of determining whether the image read in the reading step is a specific image,
12. The image according to claim 11, further comprising an illumination step of irradiating illumination light to a target reading position when it is determined in the determination step that the read image is the specific image. Reader control method. 13. The illuminating step, wherein the illuminating light is illuminated from a point in time when the read image is determined to be the specific image to a point in time when an instruction to output the image data is issued in the determining step. 3. The method for controlling an image reader according to item 1.

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