JP2006031681A - Barcode creation device, barcode creation method, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To create a barcode allowing a terminal device carried by a user to read a barcode without causing unpleasant feeling of the user. <P>SOLUTION: A function specification means 142 specifies a function to be started when a two-dimensional barcode is read from a plurality of functions of the terminal device such as a cellular phone. A display specification means 152 specifies display of a character, a graphic, and a symbol matching the specified function. A color specification means 153 specifies a color matching the specified function. A barcode creation means 150 creates a two-dimensional code, in which the specified display is embedded, of the specified color. The specified display may be embedded in a hollow format. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a barcode creation device, a barcode creation method, and a program, and more particularly, to a barcode creation device, a barcode creation method, and a program for creating a two-dimensional barcode, a one-dimensional barcode, and other barcodes.

  In general, one-dimensional barcodes and two-dimensional barcodes are widely used.

  For example, a two-dimensional barcode called a QR code (registered trademark) has a rectangular appearance, and a large number of black and white cells, which are the smallest units, are arranged in a two-dimensional matrix within the rectangle to represent information. Yes. The QR code (registered trademark) is a position detection pattern (also referred to as a cutout symbol or a finder pattern) arranged at three corners of the four corners of the quadrangle, or a timing arranged between these position detection patterns. A quick lead is made possible by arranging a pattern or the like in a two-dimensional barcode.

  Such a two-dimensional barcode can write a large amount of information in one barcode as compared with a one-dimensional barcode, so it is not only a numeric string but also a URL (Uniform Resource Locator), electronic It is used for writing and reading various types of information such as e-mail addresses, sound information, text, and the like.

  By the way, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H10-228561 describes that multimedia information composed of text, sound, and images is recorded and reproduced as a two-dimensional color barcode. For example, a multimedia information 3 bit string “100” “000” “011” “110” “101” “111” composed of a text bit string “100111...”, An audio bit string “001101...” And an image bit string “001011. "...", "100" for "red", "000" for "purple", "011" for "green", "110" for "black", "101" for "white" In addition, “111” is a table indicating that each corresponds to “brown”), and a two-dimensional bit comprising “red”, “purple”, “green”, “black”, “white”, “brown”, etc. Print as a color barcode. The color barcode printed in this way is read by a special reproducing apparatus that can restore the color barcode into three types of information: text, sound, and image.

  Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H10-228561 describes a method in which a message and a logo are received, and a bar code is generated by embedding a message encoded in a two-dimensional bit pattern in a halftone logo.

  Patent Document 3 describes a barcode that can be freely set to be round, square, triangular, or the like.

Patent Documents 4 and 5 describe a barcode that has an appearance of a tree or fish.
JP 2000-67191 A (particularly FIGS. 6 to 9 and columns 0044 to 0057) Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2002-56352 (in particular, columns 2, 3 and 0015) Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2003-203196 (especially FIGS. 1, 4, and 5) Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 9-50500 (particularly FIG. 1) JP-A-9-212611 (especially FIG. 1)

  A barcode such as a QR code (registered trademark) is formed with a predetermined fixed external shape such as a quadrangle, and is printed with a black and white bar or cell, so if you do not read the barcode, It is impossible to know what type of information is written on the barcode. In particular, if only the barcode is printed, the user cannot understand what it is as a whole. There is also a design mismatch with the barcode embedding destination. Therefore, the user tends to have an unpleasant image with respect to the barcode, and it is difficult to cause the user to actually have the terminal device read the barcode.

  Patent Document 3 describes a barcode whose appearance can be freely set. However, if the appearance is freely deformed, an existing two-dimensional barcode such as a QR code (registered trademark) is disclosed. Then, it becomes out of the standard, and the terminal device cannot read the two-dimensional barcode.

  In addition, what is described in Patent Document 1 is designed to print each bit string of multimedia information with color bits corresponding to the bit string for the purpose of efficiently recording the multimedia information. If you do not read the bar code, you cannot know what the bar code is for.

  The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and a barcode creation device and barcode creation capable of creating a barcode that can be read by a terminal device possessed by the user without causing the user to feel uncomfortable An object is to provide a method and a program.

  In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 1 is a barcode creation device for creating a barcode to be read by a predetermined terminal device, wherein the barcode is selected from a plurality of functions of the terminal device. Function specifying means for specifying a function to be activated when read, color specifying means for specifying the color of the barcode that is the color representing the specified function, and a bar for creating the barcode with the specified color It has a configuration with code creation means.

  Here, the barcode is a two-dimensional barcode (QR code, maxi code, data matrix, PDF417, etc.), JAN code, ITF, UCC / EAN128, etc., numbers or other characters, symbols, or these This is a geometrical replacement of the bond.

  With this configuration, the barcode is created in a color that corresponds to the function that is activated when the barcode is read by the terminal device, so the user activates the terminal device when the barcode is read by the barcode color. The user can know the function to be performed, and the user can cause the terminal device held by the user to read the barcode without feeling uncomfortable.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the barcode creation device for creating a barcode to be read by a predetermined terminal device, a function to be activated when the barcode is read from among a plurality of functions of the terminal device. A function specifying means for specifying, and a display specifying means for specifying the display to be embedded in a chromatic color portion or black portion on the barcode, which is a display made up of characters, figures, symbols or a combination thereof corresponding to the specified function And barcode generation means for generating the barcode in which the specified display is embedded in a color or density different from the embedded portion with respect to the embedded portion consisting of a chromatic color portion or a black portion on the barcode. It becomes the composition.

  With this configuration, a barcode with an embedded display corresponding to the function to be activated when the barcode is read by the terminal device is created, so that the user can read the barcode with the display embedded in the barcode. Therefore, the user can know the function to be activated in the terminal device, and the user can cause the terminal device held by the user to read the barcode without feeling uncomfortable.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the barcode creation device for creating a barcode to be read by a predetermined terminal device, a function to be activated when the barcode is read from among a plurality of functions of the terminal device. A function specifying means for specifying; a display specifying means for specifying the display to be embedded in the barcode in white, which is a display composed of characters, figures, symbols or combinations thereof corresponding to the specified function; It has a configuration including barcode generating means for generating the barcode in which the display is embedded in white.

  With this configuration, a bar code with a white display corresponding to the function to be activated when the bar code is read by the terminal device is created. Therefore, the user can display the bar code with the white display in the bar code. It is possible to know the function activated by the terminal device when it is read, and the user can cause the terminal device possessed by the user to read the barcode without feeling uncomfortable.

  The invention described in claim 4 is a display composed of characters, figures, symbols, or a combination thereof, and an input means for inputting the display contents to be embedded in a barcode, and the input display contents It has a configuration including barcode generating means for generating the barcode embedded in a color or density different from that of the embedded portion with respect to the embedded portion consisting of a chromatic color portion or a black portion on the barcode.

  With this configuration, a barcode in which the input display is embedded is created, so that the user can know the outline of the content of the barcode by the display embedded in the barcode, and the user is uncomfortable. Therefore, the terminal device owned by the user is allowed to read the barcode.

  The invention according to claim 5 is a display composed of characters, figures, symbols, or a combination thereof, and an input means for inputting the contents of the display to be embedded in a barcode, and the input contents of the display are outlined And a barcode creating means for creating the barcode embedded in (1).

  With this configuration, a barcode with a blank input display is created, so that the user can know the outline of the content of the barcode by the blank display in the barcode, and the user feels uncomfortable. The barcode is read by the terminal device possessed by the user without having.

  According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided layout determining means for determining a position where the barcode is to be embedded based on the color of the barcode and the color information into which the barcode is embedded, and the barcode at the determined position. It is the structure provided with the arrangement | positioning means to arrange | position.

  With this configuration, the position where the barcode is embedded is determined based on the color of the barcode and the color information of the destination where the barcode is embedded, and the barcode is arranged, so that the user does not have much discomfort. become.

  The invention according to claim 7 comprises color specifying means for specifying the color of the barcode based on the color information into which the barcode is embedded, and barcode generating means for creating the barcode with the specified color. It becomes the composition.

  With this configuration, the barcode color is specified based on the color information into which the barcode is to be embedded, and the barcode is created with the specified color, so that the user does not have much discomfort.

  According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a barcode creation device for creating a barcode to be read by a predetermined terminal device, a first bitmap encoded so as to be readable by the terminal device, and characters, figures, symbols Or a second bitmap that visibly represents a display composed of a combination thereof, and the second bitmap that is arranged in the barcode exclusively with respect to the first bitmap. It is configured to include a barcode creating means for creating a barcode.

  The invention according to claim 9 is the invention according to claim 8, wherein the barcode creating means determines at least one of the position and size of the display based on the number of bits of the first bitmap. It is configured to do.

  According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a step of specifying a function to be activated when a barcode is read from among a plurality of functions of a predetermined terminal device, a color representing the specified function, and the barcode And a step of creating the barcode with the specified color.

  The invention according to claim 11 is a step of specifying a function to be activated when a barcode is read from among a plurality of functions of a predetermined terminal device, and a character, figure, symbol or symbol corresponding to the specified function A step of specifying the display to be embedded in a chromatic color portion or black portion on a barcode, which is a display composed of these combinations, and the specified display to an embedded portion consisting of a chromatic color portion or a black portion on the barcode On the other hand, the method includes a step of creating the barcode embedded with a color or density different from that of the embedded portion.

  The invention according to claim 12 is a step of specifying a function to be activated when a barcode is read from a plurality of functions of a predetermined terminal device, and a character, a figure, a symbol or a character corresponding to the specified function The display is composed of these combinations, and includes a step of specifying the display to be embedded in the barcode in white, and a step of creating the barcode in which the specified display is embedded in white. .

  The invention according to claim 13 is a display composed of characters, figures, symbols, or a combination thereof, the step of inputting the display content to be embedded in a barcode, and the input display content being the bar. And a step of creating the barcode embedded in a color or density different from that of the embedded portion with respect to the embedded portion consisting of a chromatic color portion or a black portion on the code.

  The invention according to claim 14 is a display composed of characters, figures, symbols, or a combination thereof, wherein the content of the display embedded in a barcode is input, and the input content of the display is outlined And the step of creating the bar code embedded in (1).

  The invention according to claim 15 is a step of determining a position to embed the barcode based on the color of the barcode and the color information to which the barcode is embedded, and arranging the barcode at the determined position. And a step including:

  The invention described in claim 16 includes a step of specifying the color of the barcode based on the color information into which the barcode is embedded, and a step of creating the barcode with the specified color. Yes.

  According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, in the barcode creation method for creating a barcode to be read by a predetermined terminal device, generating a first bitmap encoded so as to be readable by the predetermined terminal device; A second bit map visibly representing a display made up of characters, graphics, symbols, or a combination thereof, wherein the second bit is arranged in the barcode exclusively with respect to the first bit map. The configuration includes a step of generating a map.

  According to an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, in the invention of the seventeenth aspect, the step of calculating the number of bits of the first bitmap and the position and size of the display based on the calculated number of bits. The configuration includes a step of determining at least one.

  A nineteenth aspect of the present invention is a program that causes a computer device to execute the barcode generation method according to any one of the tenth to eighteenth aspects.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to create a barcode that can be read by a terminal device possessed by the user without causing the user to feel uncomfortable.

  The best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a principal block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a barcode creating apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment.

  In FIG. 1, the barcode creating apparatus 10 mainly includes a storage unit 110, an image input unit 122, an image output unit 123, a display unit 130, a setting unit 141, a function specifying unit 142, an original information input unit 143, and a size selection unit 144. , An output instruction unit 145, an encoding unit 151, a display specifying unit 152, a color specifying unit 153, a barcode editing unit 154, a barcode arrangement unit 155, and an image editing unit 156.

  The storage means 110 stores a two-dimensional barcode creation program and various information necessary for creating a two-dimensional barcode. In the present embodiment, the storage unit 110 particularly stores a management table 1100 as shown in FIG. The management table 1100 in FIG. 4 is a function of a terminal device that reads a two-dimensional barcode, and for each function to be activated when reading a two-dimensional barcode, an identifier, a two-dimensional barcode color (barcode color), 2 It is a table in which display characters and display marks to be embedded in a three-dimensional barcode, display character and display mark color (display color), and other information related to two-dimensional barcode creation are registered.

  The image input means 122 is for inputting an image into which the two-dimensional barcode is embedded.

  The image output means 123 outputs an image in which a two-dimensional barcode is embedded. In this embodiment, the output destination of the image includes the printer 20, the network 60, the removable recording medium 70, and the storage unit 110 built in the apparatus.

  The display unit 130 displays various screens for guiding the user, displays a two-dimensional barcode embedded image, displays a two-dimensional barcode, displays a two-dimensional barcode embedded image, and other various types. Is displayed.

  The setting unit 141 sets various information necessary for creating a two-dimensional barcode. In the present embodiment, the setting unit 141 is used when setting a management table 1100 as shown in FIG.

  The function specifying unit 142 specifies a function to be activated by the terminal device when the created two-dimensional barcode is read from a plurality of functions of the terminal device that reads the two-dimensional barcode. The identification of this function has a mode in which a user performs a selection operation from among a plurality of functions displayed on the display unit 130, and secondly, an identifier included in the original information to be encoded. There is a mode of detecting the function and determining the function.

  The original information input means 143 inputs original information to be encoded as a two-dimensional barcode. Examples of the original information include a URL (Uniform Resource Locator), an e-mail address, text, and sound information.

  The size selection means 144 is for selecting the size of the two-dimensional barcode.

  The output instruction means 145 is for inputting the output mode and output instruction of the two-dimensional barcode. The output mode of the two-dimensional barcode includes, for example, print output on paper by output to the printer 20, file output output to the recording medium 70 or storage means 110, screen display output to the display means 130, and the network 60. There is output.

  The encoding unit 151 encodes the original information input by the original information input unit 143 in accordance with a predetermined standard, and generates an original two-dimensional barcode composed of a two-dimensional matrix black and white bitmap.

  The display specifying unit 152 specifies the display characters and display marks to be embedded in the original two-dimensional barcode by reading the display characters and display marks corresponding to the functions specified by the function specifying unit 142 with reference to the management table 1100. To do.

  The color specifying unit 153 refers to the management table 1100 and reads the barcode color and display color corresponding to the function specified by the function specifying unit 142, thereby specifying the color (barcode color) of the two-dimensional barcode. And the color of the display character and the display mark (display color) are specified.

  The bar code editing means 154 edits the original two-dimensional bar code generated by the encoding means 151. Specifically, first, the color of the two-dimensional barcode is set. Second, if there is a display character to be embedded, the display character is embedded in the original two-dimensional barcode. Third, if there is a display mark to be embedded, the display mark is embedded in the original two-dimensional barcode. Fourth, the colors of display characters and display marks are set. It should be noted that the color of the two-dimensional barcode and the color of the display characters and display marks need to be colors that do not hinder the identification of the bitmap when the terminal device decodes the two-dimensional barcode. For example, red, green, blue, and black, and it is preferable to use a dark color.

  It is also possible to set the color of the two-dimensional barcode to black and the color of the display character or display mark to a halftone having a lower density than black. In this case, the halftone density needs to be a density that does not hinder the identification of the bitmap when the terminal device decodes the two-dimensional barcode.

  The barcode arrangement unit 155 determines a position where the two-dimensional barcode is embedded in the image based on the color of the edited two-dimensional barcode and the color information of the image into which the two-dimensional barcode is embedded. You may make it embed | fix at a predetermined position of the margin of an image fixedly.

  The image editing unit 156 embeds a two-dimensional barcode in the image and generates an image to be output.

  In FIG. 1, the encoding means 151 and the barcode editing means 154 constitute a two-dimensional barcode creation means 150.

  Next, the flow of processing for creating a two-dimensional barcode in the first embodiment will be described using the flowchart of FIG.

  In the following description, the barcode creation device 10 is configured by a computer device that executes a two-dimensional barcode creation tool (which is a program). A terminal device that reads a two-dimensional barcode is configured by a mobile phone with a camera.

  First, the two-dimensional barcode management table 1100 is set (S12). Specifically, when the two-dimensional barcode creation tool is activated on the computer device, a two-dimensional barcode creation screen 1300 shown in FIG. 3 is displayed on the computer device. ”Is selected. Then, a screen (setting screen) for setting the management table 1100 of the two-dimensional barcode is displayed, and the setting operation of the management table 1100 is performed on this setting screen.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the management table 1100 is a table in which an identifier, a barcode color, a display character, a display mark, and a display color are set for each function activated by a mobile phone that has read a two-dimensional barcode. .

  Here, the management table 1100 includes functions such as “mail” function, “Web” function, “phonebook registration” function, “bookmark registration” function, “text registration” function, “content registration” function, “application linkage”. "And other functions are registered. The “mail” function is a function that cooperates with an electronic mail program of a mobile phone, and is a function that displays an e-mail transmission form on the mobile phone. The “Web” function is a function for starting a browser program of a mobile phone, accessing a WWW (World Wide Web) server on the Internet from the mobile phone, and playing back digital content distributed from the WWW server. . The “phone book registration” function is a function for registering a telephone number and other personal information in the phone book on the mobile phone. The “bookmark registration” function is a function for registering a URL (Uniform Resource Locator) of a homepage on the Internet as a bookmark in a mobile phone. The “text registration” function is a function for registering text information encoded in a two-dimensional barcode in a mobile phone. The “content recognition” function is a function for causing the mobile phone to recognize the content encoded in the two-dimensional barcode as digital content. The “app” function is a function that cooperates with a downloadable application program such as an i-appli (registered trademark) registered in a mobile phone.

  The “identifier” is an element that should be included in the original information encoded into the two-dimensional barcode, and an element that can identify each function is set. For example, “mailto:” is an identifier of the “mail” function. For example, “http: //” is an identifier of the “Web” function.

  “Bar code color” is a color of a two-dimensional barcode, and a color corresponding to each function is set. For example, blue is set for the “mail” function, and red is set for the “Web” function.

  “Display characters” are characters to be displayed in the two-dimensional bar code and corresponding to each function. For example, “M” as an initial of “Mail” is set for the “mail” function, and “W” as an initial of “Web” is set for the “Web” function.

  The “display mark” is a mark (graphic or symbol) displayed in the two-dimensional barcode, and corresponding to each function is set. For example, a figure representing a mail is set in the “mail” function.

  In the “display color”, the color of the display character or display mark displayed in the two-dimensional barcode is set. For example, black is set.

  As described above, when a predetermined registration operation is performed after the contents of the management table are input, the input contents are stored in the storage unit 110 of the computer device.

  The management table setting (S12) need not be performed when the management table 1100 is already set.

  Next, the image that is the embedding destination of the two-dimensional barcode is input (S14). This input image is, for example, a still image taken by a user with a digital camera or a camera-equipped mobile phone.

  Next, a function activated by the cellular phone when the two-dimensional barcode is read by the cellular phone is selected (S16). Specifically, since a plurality of function icons are displayed in the function selection area 1320 of the two-dimensional barcode creation screen 1300 in FIG. 3, the function corresponding to the two-dimensional barcode is represented from these function icons. Select. Then, an input field corresponding to the selected function is displayed in the input area 1330 of the two-dimensional barcode creation screen 1300.

  Note that the two-dimensional barcode creation screen 1300 in FIG. 3 shows a case where the “Register phone book” function is selected. In the input area 1330, “name”, “phonetic”, “phone number”, “ Input fields such as “TEL-AV” (video phone number), “mail address”, and “memo” are displayed. When the “mail” function is selected, an input field for inputting an e-mail address of an e-mail transmission destination, an input field for inputting a template of e-mail contents, and the like are displayed. When the “Web” function is selected, an input field for inputting the URL of the WWW server, an input field for inputting a variable to be notified to the WWW server, and the like are displayed.

  Here, the original information to be encoded as a two-dimensional barcode is input (S18).

  Note that it is not necessary for the user to input all of the original information. For example, in the case of the “mail” function, “mailto:” set in the “identifier” of the management table is read and the head of the user input information is read. In the case of the “Web” function, “http: //” set in the “identifier” of the management table is read and added to the head of the user input information.

  The input of original information is not particularly limited when performed on the screen. For example, the original information may be read out from a desired file.

  Next, the size of the two-dimensional barcode is selected (S20). Specifically, in the size selection area 1340 of the two-dimensional barcode creation screen 1300, selectable two-dimensional barcode sizes are displayed, so selection is made from a plurality of displayed sizes. If the default size is acceptable, there is no need to perform a selection operation.

  Next, an output instruction is given (S22). In the output instruction area 1350 of the two-dimensional barcode creation screen 1300 shown in FIG. 3, it is possible to simultaneously specify an output mode such as printer output, file output, and screen display, and output instruction.

  When an output instruction is given, first, display characters and display marks to be embedded in the two-dimensional barcode are specified (S24). Specifically, referring to the management table 1100, display characters and display marks corresponding to the specified function are read out.

  When only the two-dimensional barcode is colored, it is determined that no display characters and display marks are set in the management table 1100 and there are no display characters and display marks to be embedded in the two-dimensional barcode. If only display characters (for example, “M”) are embedded, it is determined that no display mark is set in the management table 1100 and there is no display mark embedded in the two-dimensional barcode. When only embedding a display mark (for example, a postal figure) is performed, it is determined that no display character is set in the management table 1100 and no display character is embedded in the two-dimensional barcode.

  Next, the color of the two-dimensional barcode and the colors of display characters and display marks are specified (S26). Specifically, referring to the management table 1100, the color of the two-dimensional barcode (barcode color) corresponding to the specified function and the color of the display character and display mark (display color) are read.

  When “barcode color” is not set in the management table 1100, it is determined that the two-dimensional barcode is not colored. In this case, the two-dimensional barcode is set to black.

  Next, the original information is encoded (S28). For example, when the function is “mail” and the original information is “mailto: XXXX”, the original information is encoded in a predetermined format standardized as a QR code (registered trademark). A bitmap of the original two-dimensional barcode as shown in 5 (a) is generated.

  Next, the two-dimensional barcode is edited (S30). For example, when the function is “mail” and the “barcode color” associated with the “mail” function in the management table 1100 is blue, the color of the two-dimensional barcode is set to blue. . Further, when the “display character” associated with the “mail” function in the management table 1100 is “M” and the “display color” is black, “M” is black and the two-dimensional bar is displayed. Embed in code. Further, when the “display mark” associated with the “mail” function in the management table 1100 is a postal figure and the “display color” is black, the postal figure is black and converted into a two-dimensional barcode. Embed.

  FIG. 5B shows an example of a display character bitmap, and FIG. 5C shows the display character bitmap embedded in the original two-dimensional barcode bitmap of FIG. 5A. Here, the two-dimensional barcode is blue, and the display character is black. FIG. 5 (d) shows an example of a display mark bitmap. FIG. 5 (e) shows the display mark bitmap embedded in the original two-dimensional barcode bitmap of FIG. 5 (a). Show. Here, the two-dimensional barcode is blue and the display mark is black.

  As shown in FIGS. 5C and 5E, the display character and the display mark are the chromatic color part (or black part) and the chromatic color part (or black part) of the two-dimensional barcode. Are embedded in different colors. On the other hand, display characters and display marks are not embedded in the achromatic portion (or white portion) of the two-dimensional barcode. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the two-dimensional barcode from being identified in a mobile phone that reads the two-dimensional barcode.

  5C shows a case where only the display character “M” is embedded in the two-dimensional barcode, and FIG. 5E shows a case where only the display mark (post figure) is embedded in the two-dimensional barcode. In accordance with the management table 1100, both the display character (“M”) and the display mark (“postal mark”) can be embedded in one two-dimensional barcode.

  Next, the arrangement of the two-dimensional barcode is determined (S32), and editing is performed to embed the two-dimensional barcode in the image (S34). Specifically, the position for embedding the two-dimensional barcode is determined based on the color of the two-dimensional barcode and the color information of the image into which the two-dimensional barcode is to be embedded, and the two-dimensional barcode is embedded. For example, when the image is scanned with a block having a two-dimensional barcode shape, the hue within the block is a block whose width is equal to or smaller than a predetermined value (that is, a block having an equal internal color), and the two-dimensional barcode A block having the closest hue to the color (for example, blue) is searched, and a two-dimensional barcode is embedded in this block. For example, if the two-dimensional barcode is blue, the two-dimensional barcode is embedded in the blue portion of the image. A two-dimensional barcode may be embedded at a fixed position in the margin of the image.

  Then, an image including a two-dimensional barcode is output (S36). In the case of print output, an image in which a two-dimensional barcode is embedded is transmitted to the printer 20 and printed on a predetermined sheet to create a so-called photographic print. It is also possible to display on the screen before the print output and confirm the image in which the two-dimensional barcode is embedded on the screen of the computer device. In the case of file output, an image in which the two-dimensional barcode is embedded can be output to the recording medium 70 or the storage means 110 of the computer device and saved as a file.

  FIG. 6A shows a photographic print 26a when the two-dimensional barcode 27 is embedded at a fixed position in the margin portion of the image, and FIG. 6B shows the two-dimensional barcode 27 embedded inside the input image. A photographic print 26b is shown. Here, the color of the two-dimensional barcode 27 is blue. In FIG. 6B, the two-dimensional barcode 27 is embedded in the blue portion of the input image.

  The case where a two-dimensional barcode is embedded in an image and output has been described above as an example, but it is also possible to output only a two-dimensional barcode.

  Also, the case where the color of the two-dimensional barcode is set in accordance with the function of the terminal device and the display character and the display mark are embedded in the two-dimensional barcode has been described as an example. It is also possible to set only the color of the two-dimensional barcode without embedding in the. Alternatively, the color of the two-dimensional barcode may not be set, and only the embedding of the display character into the two-dimensional barcode or the embedding of the display mark into the two-dimensional barcode may be performed. Further, instead of embedding display characters or display marks in a two-dimensional barcode, the two-dimensional barcode may be outlined with display characters or display marks.

  FIG. 7 is a principal block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the barcode creating apparatus 102 of the second embodiment. In FIG. 7, the barcode creating apparatus 102 mainly includes a storage unit 110, an image input unit 122, an image output unit 123, a display unit 130, original information / embedded information input unit 1432, a size selection unit 144, and an output instruction unit 145. , Encoding means 151, color specifying means 1532, barcode editing means 1542, barcode arrangement means 155, and image editing means 156. In FIG. 7, the same components as those of the barcode creating apparatus 10 of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the detailed description thereof is omitted because it has been described in the first embodiment.

  Original information / embedded information input means 1432 inputs original information to be encoded as a two-dimensional barcode and embedded information embedded in the two-dimensional barcode (including at least one of display characters and display marks). It is. The color specifying unit 1532 specifies the color of the two-dimensional barcode based on the color information of the destination into which the two-dimensional barcode is embedded. When there is embedded information, the barcode editing unit 1542 embeds the embedded information in the original two-dimensional barcode.

  Next, the flow of processing for creating a two-dimensional barcode in the second embodiment will be described using the flowchart of FIG.

  First, an image that is an embedding destination of a two-dimensional barcode is input (S214). This input image is, for example, a still image taken by a user with a digital camera or a camera-equipped mobile phone.

  Next, original information to be encoded as a two-dimensional barcode and embedded information to be embedded and displayed in the two-dimensional barcode are input (S218).

  FIG. 9 shows an example of setting information 1120 in which original information and embedded information are integrated. Here, “http://www.fujifilm.co.jp” is the original information 1121 to be encoded. The delimiter start information 1122 indicates the start of embedding information. The delimiter start information 1122 includes a display character (“FUJIFILM”) 1123 that is embedded and displayed in the two-dimensional barcode, and an embedding position on the two-dimensional barcode. The embedded position information 1124 shown, the display color information 1125 showing the color of the display character 1123 to be embedded, and the separation end information 1126 follow. Such setting information 1120 is input to the computer apparatus.

  Next, the size of the two-dimensional barcode is selected (S220), and an output instruction is given (S222). Examples of output modes include printer output, file output, screen display, and network output.

  When the output instruction is given, first, the color of the two-dimensional barcode is specified based on the color information of the image into which the two-dimensional barcode is embedded (S226), and the original information is encoded (S228). The two-dimensional barcode is edited (S230).

  FIG. 10A shows an example of a bitmap of the original two-dimensional barcode obtained by encoding. FIG. 10B shows an example of a display character bitmap to be displayed embedded in a two-dimensional barcode, and the display character bitmap is embedded in the original two-dimensional barcode bitmap of FIG. This is shown in FIG.

  The position where the two-dimensional barcode is embedded may be fixed (for example, a predetermined position in the margin of the image) or may be embedded in a portion where the color inside the image is uniform. For example, a block having a two-dimensional barcode shape is scanned on the image to search for a block whose hue width is equal to or smaller than a predetermined value (that is, a block having a uniform color in the image), and this block is Embed a barcode. If the part to be embedded is blue, the two-dimensional barcode is blue.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 10C, the display characters and the display marks are different from the chromatic color portion (or black portion) with respect to the chromatic color portion (or black portion) of the two-dimensional barcode. Embedded. On the other hand, display characters and display marks are not embedded in the achromatic portion (or white portion) of the two-dimensional barcode. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the two-dimensional barcode from being identified in a mobile phone that reads the two-dimensional barcode.

  Next, editing is performed by embedding the two-dimensional barcode in the image (S234), and an image including the two-dimensional barcode is output (S236).

  FIG. 11 is a principal block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the barcode creating apparatus 103 of the third embodiment. In FIG. 11, the barcode creating apparatus 103 mainly includes a storage unit 110, an image input unit 122, an image output unit 123, a display unit 130, original / white information input unit 1433, a size selection unit 144, and an output instruction unit 145. , Encoding means 151, color specifying means 1532, barcode editing means 1543, barcode arrangement means 155, and image editing means 156. In FIG. 11, the same components as the components of the barcode creating apparatus 10 of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the detailed description thereof is omitted because it has been described in the first embodiment.

  The original information / outline information input means 1433 inputs original information to be encoded as a two-dimensional barcode and outline information (including at least one of display characters and display marks) to be outlined by the two-dimensional barcode. To do. The color specifying unit 1532 specifies the color of the two-dimensional barcode based on the color information of the destination into which the two-dimensional barcode is embedded. If there is white information, the bar code editing unit 1543 makes the original two-dimensional bar code white by using the white information.

  Next, the flow of processing for creating a two-dimensional barcode in the third embodiment will be described using the flowchart of FIG.

  First, an image that is the outline of a two-dimensional barcode is input (S314). This input image is, for example, a still image taken by a user with a digital camera or a camera-equipped mobile phone.

  Next, original information to be encoded as a two-dimensional barcode and white information to be displayed in white on the two-dimensional barcode are input (S318).

  FIG. 13 shows an example of setting information 1130 in which original information and outline information are integrated. Here, “http://www.fujifilm.co.jp” is the original information 1131 to be encoded. Separation start information 1132 indicates the start of outline information. This separation start information 1132 is followed by display characters 1133 (“FUJI”) displayed in outline on a two-dimensional barcode and separation end information 1136. Yes. Such setting information 1130 is input to the computer apparatus.

  Next, the size of the two-dimensional barcode is selected (S320), and an output instruction is given (S322). Examples of output modes include printer output, file output, screen display, and network output.

  When an output instruction is given, first, the color of the two-dimensional barcode is specified based on the color information of the image that is the whitening destination of the two-dimensional barcode (S326), and the original information is encoded (S328). The two-dimensional barcode is edited (S330).

  FIG. 14A shows an example of a bitmap of the original two-dimensional barcode obtained by encoding. FIG. 14B shows an example of a bitmap of display characters displayed in white on a two-dimensional barcode, and the bitmap of the display characters is displayed in white on the bitmap of the original two-dimensional barcode in FIG. FIG. 14 (c) shows an unembedded material.

  The position where the two-dimensional barcode is embedded may be fixed (for example, a predetermined position in the margin of the image) or may be embedded in a portion where the color inside the image is uniform. For example, a block having a two-dimensional barcode shape is scanned on the image to search for a block whose hue width is equal to or smaller than a predetermined value (that is, a block having a uniform color in the image), and this block is Embed a barcode. If the part to be embedded is blue, the two-dimensional barcode is blue.

  FIG. 14C shows a case where the display character (“FUJI”) is embedded in the fixed position of the surplus portion in the two-dimensional barcode, and the position to be whitened is set information. It may be specified at 1130.

  Next, editing is performed by embedding the two-dimensional barcode in the image (S334), and an image including the two-dimensional barcode is output (S336).

  In addition, as a mode (display mode) in which a display consisting of characters, figures, symbols, or a combination thereof is displayed on a two-dimensional barcode in a state that can be visually recognized by a person, it is encoded so that it can be read by a terminal device such as a mobile phone. Of the bitmaps that are created, only the colored portions are embedded by superimposing (FIGS. 5 and 10), and only the surplus portions where no useful information exists are embedded in white. An example (Figure 14) is illustrated. These are examples shown for easy understanding of the present invention, and the display mode in the present invention is not particularly limited to these examples.

  In the following, as shown in FIG. 15, a first bitmap 271 encoded in a two-dimensional barcode 27 so as to be readable by a terminal device such as a mobile phone, and characters, figures, symbols, or these A display mode in which the second bitmap 272 representing the display composed of the combinations of the two in a visible manner will be described.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a flow of editing processing of the two-dimensional barcode 27 in this example.

  Here, it is assumed that the first bitmap 271 and the second bitmap 272 are each composed of a plurality of binary bits. The binary bit is, for example, a bit indicating “1” in chromatic color or black while indicating “0” in white.

  In FIG. 16, first, characters, figures or symbols to be displayed on the two-dimensional barcode 27 are recognized (S3302).

  For example, as already described in the first embodiment, the character, figure, or symbol to be displayed is recognized based on the function of the mobile phone that is activated when the two-dimensional barcode 27 is read. Or as already demonstrated in 3rd Embodiment, what the character, figure, or symbol input by the user is recognized.

  Next, the number of bits of the generated two-dimensional barcode 27 excluding characters, figures or symbols to be displayed on the two-dimensional barcode 27 (that is, the number of bits of the first bitmap 271) is calculated in advance (S3304).

  For example, when the first bitmap 271 is generated by encoding a URL (for example, “http://www.fujifilm.co.jp”), a two-dimensional barcode is generated only by encoding the URL. Then, the number of bits of the bit map is calculated when the visible display is not embedded in the two-dimensional barcode.

  Next, the size and position of characters, figures or symbols to be displayed on the two-dimensional barcode 27 are determined mainly based on the number of bits of the first bitmap 271 (S3306).

  For example, for a two-dimensional barcode of a predetermined size specified in a predetermined standard, the second bit number is set according to the ratio between the maximum number of bits specified in the standard and the number of bits in the first bitmap 271. The size and position of characters constituting the bitmap 272 are calculated.

  Further, for example, the size of one character and the position of each character are calculated based on the number of characters in the character string constituting the second bitmap 272.

  In addition, for example, if the character font constituting the second bitmap 272 is an English character, the character size is set smaller than when the character font is a Chinese character.

  Specifically, when generating a two-dimensional barcode 27 in which a URL is encoded and a character string (for example, “FUJI FILM”) is generated, a first bitmap 271 formed by encoding the URL is used. The size and arrangement of each character (for example, F, U, J, I, F, I, L, M) based on the number of bits and the number of characters in the string and the font (for example, it must be alphabetic) To decide.

  Next, a second bitmap 272 that displays characters, graphics, or symbols is generated (S3312).

  For example, when the two-dimensional barcode 27 displaying the character string “FUJI FILM” is generated, the character string “FUJI FILM” is represented and exclusive to the first bitmap 271 within the two-dimensional barcode 27. A second bitmap 272 arranged at is generated. The second bitmap 272 in FIG. 15 is not superimposed on the chromatic color portion (or black portion) of the first bitmap 271, and the surplus portion where there is no useful information is outlined. It is not embedded and is arranged exclusively with respect to the first bitmap 271. Specifically, the character string “FUJI FILM” is formed as a second bitmap 272 at the center of the two-dimensional barcode 27 in two stages, an upper stage and a lower stage.

  Next, a bit map of the encoded portion is generated using bits other than the character, graphic, or symbol bits to be displayed (S3314).

  For example, when generating a two-dimensional barcode 27 in which a character string “FUJI FILM” is displayed, a URL read by a mobile phone around the second bitmap 272 in which the character string “FUJI FILM” is displayed A first bitmap 271 is generated that is encoded.

  The above-described two-dimensional barcode editing process as shown in FIG. 16 is the same as that described in the first to third embodiments (10 in FIG. 1, 102 in FIG. 7, 102 in FIG. 11). 103) is mainly executed by bar code editing means (154 in FIG. 1, 1542 in FIG. 7, 1543 in FIG. 11). Further, the above-described two-dimensional barcode editing process as shown in FIG. 16 is mainly performed in the two-dimensional barcode editing step (S30 in FIG. 2) in the flowcharts already described in the first to third embodiments. , S230 in FIG. 8 and S330 in FIG. 12).

  The display embedded in the two-dimensional barcode needs to be embedded in the two-dimensional barcode so as not to affect the recognition of the two-dimensional barcode when a terminal device such as a mobile phone reads the two-dimensional barcode. Needless to say. Therefore, for example, the color of the second bitmap that is the display portion may be set to a light color that does not affect the reading of the terminal device. Further, for example, a gap that does not affect the reading of the terminal device may be provided between the first bitmap that is the code portion and the second bitmap that is the display portion.

  The case where the barcode creating apparatus is configured by a computer apparatus has been described above as an example. In this case, the two-dimensional barcode creation process is performed by the computer device executing a program. This bar code creating apparatus is not limited to a computer apparatus, and may be a dedicated apparatus. Moreover, although the case where the terminal device is configured by a mobile phone has been described as an example, the terminal device is not limited to the mobile phone, and may be another terminal device capable of reading a two-dimensional barcode.

  Further, the illustrated two-dimensional barcode and image are illustrated for easy understanding of the present invention, and different ones may be used without departing from the gist of the present invention.

  For example, a large display mark may be used. Further, for example, the display character may be any number of characters as long as it is visually displayed within the size of the two-dimensional barcode. Further, for example, the display mark may be embedded in a position detection pattern in a two-dimensional barcode. However, it should be noted that the terminal device is embedded without interfering with the identification of the bitmap of the two-dimensional barcode.

  It goes without saying that any one of a character, a figure (for example, an icon), or a symbol is not limited to being displayed in the two-dimensional barcode, and may be a combination thereof. For example, a combination of characters and graphics, a combination of characters and symbols, or all combinations may be used.

  Further, the barcode in the present invention may be a barcode other than the QR code (registered trademark). For example, other two-dimensional bar codes such as maxi code, data matrix, PDF417, JAN code, ITF, UCC / EAN128, etc. are included.

1 is a principal block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a barcode creating apparatus according to a first embodiment. The flowchart which shows the flow of a barcode creation process in 1st Embodiment Explanatory drawing which shows the example of the barcode creation screen in 1st Embodiment Explanatory drawing which shows the example of the management table of barcode in 1st Embodiment Explanatory drawing used for explanation of barcode in the first embodiment Explanatory drawing used to describe an image in which a barcode is embedded in the first embodiment The schematic block diagram which shows schematic structure of the barcode production apparatus of 2nd Embodiment. Flowchart showing the flow of barcode creation processing in the second embodiment Explanatory drawing used for explanation of barcode setting information in the second embodiment Explanatory drawing used for explanation of barcode in 2nd Embodiment The schematic block diagram which shows schematic structure of the barcode production apparatus of 3rd Embodiment. Flowchart showing the flow of barcode creation processing in the third embodiment Explanatory drawing used for explanation of barcode setting information in the third embodiment Explanatory drawing used for explanation of barcode in 3rd Embodiment Explanatory drawing used for explanation of bar code where code part and display part are arranged exclusively Flowchart showing the flow of barcode editing processing in which a code part and a display part are exclusively arranged

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10, 102, 103 ... Barcode production apparatus, 20 ... Printer, 60 ... Network, 70 ... Recording medium, 110 ... Storage means, 122 ... Image input means, 124 ... Image output means, 130 ... Display means, 141 ... Setting means , 142 ... function specifying means, 143 ... original information input means, 144 ... size selecting means, 145 ... output instruction means, 150 ... bar code creating means, 151 ... encoding means, 152 ... display specifying means, 153, 1532 ... color Identifying means, 154, 1542, 1543... Bar code editing means, 155... Bar code arranging means, 156... Image editing means, 1432 ... Original information / embedded information input means, 1433.

Claims (19)

In a barcode creation device for creating a barcode to be read by a predetermined terminal device,
A function specifying means for specifying a function to be activated when the barcode is read from a plurality of functions of the terminal device;
Color specifying means for specifying the color of the barcode, the color representing the specified function;
Barcode creating means for creating the barcode with the specified color;
A bar code creating apparatus comprising: In a barcode creation device for creating a barcode to be read by a predetermined terminal device,
A function specifying means for specifying a function to be activated when the barcode is read from a plurality of functions of the terminal device;
Display specifying means for specifying the display to be embedded in a chromatic color portion or black portion on the barcode, which is a display consisting of characters, figures, symbols or combinations thereof corresponding to the specified function;
A barcode creating means for creating the barcode in which the identified display is embedded in a color or density different from the embedded portion with respect to an embedded portion consisting of a chromatic color portion or a black portion on the barcode;
A bar code creating apparatus comprising: In a barcode creation device for creating a barcode to be read by a predetermined terminal device,
A function specifying means for specifying a function to be activated when the barcode is read from a plurality of functions of the terminal device;
Display specifying means for specifying the display embedded in the bar code in white, which is a display consisting of characters, figures, symbols or combinations thereof corresponding to the specified function;
Barcode creating means for creating the barcode in which the identified display is embedded in white;
A bar code creating apparatus comprising: An input means for inputting the contents of the display embedded in a barcode, which is a display composed of characters, figures, symbols or a combination thereof;
Barcode creation means for creating the barcode embedded with the color or density different from the embedded portion with respect to the embedded portion consisting of a chromatic color portion or a black portion on the barcode;
A bar code creating apparatus comprising: An input means for inputting the contents of the display embedded in a barcode, which is a display composed of characters, figures, symbols or a combination thereof;
Barcode creating means for creating the barcode in which the content of the input display is embedded in white;
A bar code creating apparatus comprising: An arrangement determining means for determining a position to embed the barcode based on the color of the barcode and the color information of the destination to embed the barcode;
Arrangement means for arranging the barcode at the determined position;
A bar code creating apparatus comprising: Color specifying means for specifying the color of the barcode based on the color information to which the barcode is embedded;
Barcode creating means for creating the barcode with the specified color;
A bar code creating apparatus comprising: In a barcode creation device for creating a barcode to be read by a predetermined terminal device,
A first bitmap encoded so as to be readable by the terminal device, and a second bitmap that visibly represents a display made up of characters, figures, symbols, or a combination thereof; Barcode generating means for generating the barcode including the second bitmap arranged exclusively in the barcode with respect to the barcode;
A bar code creating apparatus comprising:   9. The barcode creation device according to claim 8, wherein the barcode creation means determines at least one of the position and size of the display based on the number of bits of the first bitmap. Identifying a function to be activated when a barcode is read from among a plurality of functions of a predetermined terminal device;
A color representing the identified function and identifying the color of the barcode;
Creating the barcode with the identified color;
A method of creating a barcode, comprising: Identifying a function to be activated when a barcode is read from among a plurality of functions of a predetermined terminal device;
Specifying the display to be embedded in a chromatic or black portion on the barcode, which is a display consisting of characters, figures, symbols or a combination thereof corresponding to the specified function;
Creating the barcode by embedding the identified display with a color or density different from the embedded portion with respect to the embedded portion consisting of a chromatic color portion or a black portion on the barcode;
A method of creating a barcode, comprising: Identifying a function to be activated when a barcode is read from among a plurality of functions of a predetermined terminal device;
Specifying the display corresponding to the specified function, a display composed of characters, figures, symbols, or a combination thereof, and embedding in the barcode in white;
Creating the barcode in which the identified display is embedded in white;
A method of creating a barcode, comprising: A display composed of characters, graphics, symbols or a combination thereof, and the content of the display embedded in a barcode is input;
Creating the barcode in which the content of the input display is embedded in a color or density different from the embedded portion with respect to the embedded portion consisting of a chromatic color portion or a black portion on the barcode;
A method of creating a barcode, comprising: A display composed of characters, graphics, symbols or a combination thereof, and the content of the display embedded in a barcode is input;
Creating the barcode in which the input display content is embedded in white;
A method of creating a barcode, comprising: Determining a position to embed the barcode based on the color of the barcode and the color information to which the barcode is embedded;
Placing the barcode at the determined position;
A method of creating a barcode, comprising: Identifying the color of the barcode based on the color information into which the barcode is embedded;
Creating the barcode with the identified color;
A method of creating a barcode, comprising: In a barcode creation method for creating a barcode to be read by a predetermined terminal device,
Generating a first bitmap encoded readable by a predetermined terminal device;
A second bit map visibly representing a display made up of characters, graphics, symbols, or a combination thereof, wherein the second bit is arranged in the barcode exclusively with respect to the first bit map. Generating a map;
A method of creating a barcode, comprising: Calculating the number of bits of the first bitmap;
Determining at least one of the position and size of the display based on the calculated number of bits;
The barcode creation method according to claim 17, further comprising: A program for causing a computer device to execute the barcode generation method according to any one of claims 10 to 18.

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