JP2008072480A - System for embedding data in paper or reading data from paper, its control method, and computer readable memory medium - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a system which prevents a setting error by a user, or reduces the time and effort required for setting, and automatically configures read setting in data decoding. <P>SOLUTION: The system is composed so as to embed layout information in an original image beforehand by a certain method, and perform scanning, image processing, data decoding according to the layout information. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a system for embedding or reading a large amount of data on paper.

  As represented by bar codes and QR codes, information on products and the like has been conventionally encoded and embedded in paper (in this case, many labels and the like). By reading such paper (hereinafter referred to as “data sheet”) with a reader, information before being encoded is acquired and used for managing merchandise.

  Furthermore, recently, in order to encode not only text data but also images and various other information and embed them in paper, a coding method capable of embedding a larger amount of information than the conventional code has been considered.

For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a method of encoding an original file together with a thumbnail and printing it on paper.
JP 2001-344588 A JP 2005-94107 A

  Now, consider a case where an image including a large amount of information printed on paper as shown in the conventional example is copied as an image as it is.

  In this case, if the image reading resolution is set to be low, the amount of information is reduced during the copying process, so that the original information may not be restored from the copied image.

  Alternatively, even when the image reading resolution is sufficiently high or the data embedding density is sufficiently low and there is no problem with resolution, there is a problem when layout conversion such as 2in1 is involved. In other words, the copied image is rotated in direction, and there are two areas in one page, and there is a blank part between these areas. It is necessary to notify the reading apparatus or application that the image is 2in1.

  This problem will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram showing normal copy data processing in a general copier.

  In FIG. 6, reference numeral 601 denotes a document obtained by encoding a large amount of data into an image and printing it on paper. The data is printed across two sheets of paper. Consider copying this manuscript to a sheet of paper with a 2in1 setting. Reference numeral 606 denotes an output result copied on a sheet of paper with the 2in1 setting.

  The two originals 601 are read by the original reading unit 602, rotated 90 degrees and reduced by the image processing unit 603 according to the setting information 605 specified by the user, and then printed by the printing unit 604. Is done.

  Next, consider a case where data is read from the output image 604 thus obtained and the original data is decoded.

  FIG. 7 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a problem in the data image decoding process.

  In FIG. 7, reference numeral 701 denotes the output result 606 itself in FIG. The original printed in 2in1 is read by the original reading unit 702, interpreted by the decoding processing unit 703 in accordance with the setting information 705 specified by the user, and becomes the decoded data 704.

  At this time, in order for the decryption processing means 703 to perform decryption correctly, it is necessary for the user to correctly set that the document is printed in 2in1 as the setting information 705.

  In the above description, the setting of 2in1 is taken as an example. However, the setting information 705 is correctly set by the user even when copying so that two originals on one side are made into one on both sides. Need to be.

  It is troublesome for the user to perform these settings correctly.

  In order to cope with this problem, for example, Patent Document 2 proposes a method of accurately identifying a location where an error has occurred during reading, resetting scan parameters, and rereading the location.

  However, in the above method, there is a problem that it takes time to process, for example, it is necessary to read again when scanning fails.

  The present invention provides a system for automatically setting a read setting at the time of data decoding for the purpose of preventing a setting error of a user or reducing a setting effort.

In view of the above problems, in the present invention,
Image reading means for reading a document image;
Data decoding means for extracting data embedded in the read image;
Layout information detection means for detecting layout information indicating how images are laid out in the document;
Setting information holding means for holding reading settings of the document image input by the user;
Image reading setting determining means for determining whether or not the reading setting of the document image held in the setting information holding means is appropriate;
As a result of the determination by the image reading setting determining means, there is provided an image reading setting correcting means for automatically correcting the reading setting of the document image when it is determined that the setting is not appropriate.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to automatically set the scan setting automatically by reading the layout information included in the document. For example, even from a document copied by laying out an image in which data is embedded in 2in1, the data is correctly set. Can be decrypted.

(Example 1)
Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  First, FIG. 1 and FIG. 9 are conceptual diagrams showing an overall image from generation to use of a data sheet.

  In FIG. 1, reference numeral 113 denotes a multi-function peripheral (MFP), which shows processing from generation of two-dimensional encoded data from input data to output to print paper.

  Input data 101 to be processed is a document file, an image file, a moving image file, an audio file, an execution file, or the like, and is input to the multifunction peripheral from a scanner, a telephone line (FAX), an external medium, or a network device. For example, the image file is 113 image data read by a scanner, and input 103 from a telephone line (FAX), input 104 from an external medium, and input 105 from a network device are also possible. Similarly, a document file, a moving image file, an audio file, and an execution file can be input 105 from a network device.

  The multi-function peripheral 113 generates two-dimensional encoded data from the input data 101 and outputs it to a print sheet 106 (108 is a print result of the two-dimensional encoded data), or the input data itself 101 is sent to the network device 107, and the destination network address is two-dimensionally encoded and printed 106.

  In FIG. 9, reference numeral 113 denotes a multi-function peripheral (MFP), which shows processing from decoding two-dimensional encoded data read from a scanner to restoring original data.

  The multifunction machine 113 reads the original 108 on which the two-dimensional encoded data is printed from the scanner 109 and extracts the two-dimensional encoded data at the same time as the decoding 111, thereby decoding the decoded data 112, that is, FIG. The input data 101 can be obtained. If the decrypted data is a network address at this time, the input data 101 in FIG. 1 can be obtained by referring to the address and obtaining a file from the network device.

  FIG. 2 shows the internal configuration of the MFP (MFP) 113, and the controller of the MFP of the present invention has the same configuration.

  In FIG. 2, reference numeral 200 denotes the entire multifunction peripheral. The multifunction device 200 includes a CPU 201 that executes software stored in a ROM 202 or a large-scale storage device 210 such as a hard disk. The CPU 201 generally controls each device connected to the system bus 213.

  A RAM 203 functions as a main memory, work area, and the like for the CPU 201. Reference numeral 205 denotes an external input controller (PANELC), which controls instruction inputs from various buttons provided on the multifunction peripheral or the touch panel 206 or the like. Reference numeral 207 denotes a display controller (DISPC), which controls the display of a display module (DISPLAY) 208 composed of, for example, a liquid crystal display.

  A network interface card (NIC) 204 bi-directionally exchanges data with other network devices or file servers via the LAN 214.

  Reference numeral 211 denotes a paper printing unit realized by, for example, an electrophotographic system or an inkjet system.

  An image reading unit 212 reads an image printed on paper. In many cases, an automatic document feeder (not shown) is attached as an option to the image reading unit 212, and a plurality of documents can be automatically read.

  In some cases, the large-scale storage device 210 may be used as a temporary storage location for images.

  Next, specific embodiments of the present invention in the above general copying machines and MFPs will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 3 is a view showing an example of a document decoded by the MFP of the present invention.

  In FIG. 3, reference numeral 300 denotes the entire document. This manuscript is a 2-in-1 copy of two manuscripts obtained by encoding a large amount of data into an image and printing on paper, and includes two areas (302 and 303) where the data is encoded.

  Reference numeral 301 denotes an area on which the original layout information (whether it is copied in 2in1 or includes information on both sides, etc.) is printed. The layout information includes, for example, a QR code. Alternatively, it is assumed that printing is performed by the same encoding method as 302 and 303.

  FIG. 4 is a data flow diagram showing an example of data processing inside the MFP of the present invention.

  The data read from the image reading unit 212 is subjected to a series of image processing such as rotation 401, reduction 402, imposition 403, and the like, and the result is sent to, for example, the printing unit 211 to be a copy output.

  The data read from the image reading unit 212 is also sent to a series of setting control determination routines such as the embedded data detection 404 and the reading mode check 405.

  Here, the layout information detection 404 is means for detecting whether or not there is an area in which layout information is embedded in the transmitted image data, and if there is, extracting the layout information therefrom. More specifically, an area in which layout information is embedded is detected by image processing such as block selection for extracting an area from the read document image, and the layout information embedded therein is decoded. If the layout information is always written at the same position on the document, it is also possible to decode the layout information from a predetermined fixed area without using the block selection technique.

  The reading mode check 405 compares the layout information detected by the layout information detection 404 with the setting information 406 designated by the user, and if the current setting information is read or decoded correctly in relation to the resolution or layout. If the setting cannot be performed, the display controller (DISPC) 207 is controlled to display a message for alerting the user on the display module (DISPLAY) 208, or the setting information 406 is updated according to the information detected by the layout information detection 404. Or fix it automatically.

  The above operation is performed by the CPU 201 executing software stored in advance in the ROM 202 or the large-scale storage device 210. In the middle of the control, the RAM 203 or the large-scale storage device 210 is used as a work area for storing images or work variables.

  Next, in order to explain the control procedure by software in more detail, it demonstrates using FIG. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing control of copy processing in the MFP of the present invention.

  The procedure of FIG. 5 is activated when the user starts a copy operation by operating various buttons or the touch panel 206 or the like.

  In the following description, the CPU 201 performs determination and execution.

  When the copy procedure is activated, first, in step 501, the image reading unit 212 is controlled to read the document image, and layout information is detected from the document image.

  Next, the process proceeds to step 502. If it is determined that the layout information is included as a result of the detection in step 501, the process proceeds to step 503.

  In step 503, the details of the layout information detected in step 501 are checked to determine whether the layout is Nin1. If it is determined that it is Nin1, the process proceeds to step 504.

  In step 504, the setting information 406 is automatically set so that the scan setting is Nin1 in order to correctly decode the original data from each of the plurality of areas included in one page of the read original image as independent areas. Correct it.

  Next, in step 505, the original data is decoded from each of the plurality of areas of the read original image, and a process of combining and combining them as necessary is performed.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step 503 that the layout is not Nin1, the process proceeds to step 506, where the entire original image is regarded as one data area, and the original data is decoded.

  When the processing of step 505 or step 506 is completed, the processing is continued by joining step 507.

  Step 507 is an embedding density conversion step, for example, performing processing such as converting the information embedding density to a low density in preparation for future copying.

  Next, the process proceeds to step 508, where information on the output layout among the information set in the setting information 406 is accessed to determine whether the output layout is designated as Nin1.

  If the result of determination in step 508 is that Nin1 is designated, the process proceeds to step 509.

  In step 509, as the result of Nin1 designation, it is calculated how much information is embedded in one page, and if it is higher than a predetermined density, there is a problem. Judge that there is no problem.

  If it is determined in step 509 that there is no problem, the process proceeds to step 510.

  In step 510, in order to add layout information to the output result, the layout information is prepared by encoding it into a form such as a QR code.

  On the other hand, if the result of determination in step 509 is problematic, the process proceeds to step 512.

  In step 512, the display controller (DISPC) 207 is controlled to display a message to alert the user on the display module (DISPLAY) 208, and the setting information 406 is accessed to set the setting contents so that there is no problem in resolution. Automatically correct to

  When the processing of step 510 or step 512 is completed, the processing is continued by joining step 511. If it is determined in step 508 that Nin1 is not designated, the process also merges in step 511.

  In step 511, the original data decoded in step 505 or step 506 is encoded again into an image, and if there is no problem in the determination in step 509, it is combined with the layout information prepared in step 510 and printed. The unit 211 is controlled to print on paper.

  On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step 502, when it is determined that the layout information is not included in the document as a result of the detection in step 501, the process proceeds to step 513.

  In step 513, normal copy processing is performed in which the original image is copied as an image without decoding the embedded original data.

  When the processing in step 511 or step 513 is completed, this procedure is completed.

  Of the steps in the above description, steps 501 to 505 are read and decode processes for decoding the original data from the read image, while steps 508 to 512 are for re-encoding the decoded original data. Therefore, it is easy to understand if it is divided into print processing for printing.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a memory map of a CD-ROM which is an example of a storage medium. Reference numeral 9999 denotes an area in which directory information is stored, and indicates positions of an area 9998 in which subsequent installation programs are stored and an area 9997 in which copier control programs are stored. An area 9998 stores an installation program. Reference numeral 9997 denotes an area in which a control program for the copying machine 200 is stored. When the copy machine control program of the present invention is installed in the copy machine 200, first, the install program stored in the area 9998 where the install program is stored is loaded into the system and executed by the CPU 201. Next, the installation program executed by the CPU 201 reads the copy machine control program from the area 9997 in which the copy machine control program is stored, and rewrites the contents of the ROM 202 or installs it in the large-scale storage device 211. In this case, the ROM 202 is not a simple mask ROM, but must be a rewritable ROM such as a flash ROM.

  Note that the present invention may be applied to a system or an integrated device including a plurality of devices (for example, a scanner, a printer, a network storage, etc.), or an apparatus including a single device.

  In addition, a storage medium in which a program code of software that realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to a system or apparatus, and the computer (or CPU or MPU) of the system or apparatus stores the program code in the storage medium. It goes without saying that the object of the present invention can also be achieved by reading and executing.

  In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the novel function of the present invention, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

  As a storage medium for supplying the program code, for example, a flexible disk, a hard disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a CD-ROM, a CD-R, a magnetic tape, a nonvolatile memory card, a ROM, or the like can be used.

  In addition, the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by executing the program code read by the computer, and the OS running on the computer is part of the actual processing based on the instruction of the program code. Alternatively, the functions of the above-described embodiment can be realized by performing all of them and performing the processing.

  Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written to a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, the function expansion is performed based on the instruction of the program code. The CPU or the like provided in the board or the function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing, and the functions of the above-described embodiments can be realized by the processing.

  The present invention can also be applied to a case where the program is distributed to a requester via a communication line such as personal computer communication from a storage medium in which a program code of software realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments is recorded. Needless to say.

(Example 2)
In the description of the first embodiment, step 507 has been described as a step of changing the embedding density of an image. However, this step is changed to the direction of the image embedded in each image area that is Nin1. If they are different, it can be read as a step for aligning the orientation of the images.

  In this case, as layout information acquired in step 501, in addition to Nin1 information and embedded resolution information, information regarding the orientation of the image is taken out.

  By using the information regarding the orientation of the image acquired in step 501, in step 507, processing such as image rotation may be performed so that the orientation of the image embedded in each Nin1 image area is matched.

It is the conceptual diagram which showed the whole image of the data sheet process concerning this invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an MFP 113 in FIG. 1. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a document decoded by the MFP according to the present invention. 3 is a data flow diagram illustrating an example of data processing inside the MFP of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing control of copy processing in the MFP of the present invention. It is a conceptual diagram which shows the data processing of the normal copy in a general copier. It is a conceptual diagram explaining the subject in the decoding process of a data image. It is a schematic diagram which shows the memory map of CD-ROM which is an example of a storage medium. It is the conceptual diagram which showed the whole image of the data sheet process concerning this invention.

Explanation of symbols

113,200 MFP (MFP)
201 CPU
211 Printing means 212 Image reading means 211 Printing means 404, 502 Layout information detecting means 406 Setting information 405, 503 Image reading setting determining means 405, 504 Image reading setting correcting means 505, 506 Data decoding means 509 Output setting determining means 512 Output setting Correction means

Claims (6)

Image reading means for reading a document image;
Data decoding means for extracting data embedded in the read image;
Layout information detection means for detecting layout information indicating how images are laid out in the document;
Setting information holding means for holding reading settings of the document image input by the user;
Image reading setting determining means for determining whether or not the reading setting of the document image held in the setting information holding means is appropriate;
Data reading from paper characterized by having image reading setting correcting means for automatically correcting the reading setting of a document image when it is determined that the setting is not appropriate as a result of determination by the image reading setting determining means system. Printing means for printing an image on paper;
Output setting information holding means for holding layout setting information of the print output input by the user;
Output setting determination means for determining whether the setting information held in the output setting information holding means is appropriate;
A paper data embedding system comprising: output setting correcting means for automatically correcting the setting of an output image when it is determined that the setting is not appropriate as a result of the determination by the output setting determining means. An image reading step for reading an original image;
A data decoding step for extracting data embedded in the read image;
Layout information detecting step for detecting layout information indicating how images are laid out in the document;
A setting information reading step of reading setting information from setting information holding means for holding reading settings of the original image input by the user;
An image reading setting determination step for determining whether the reading setting of the document image held in the setting information holding means is appropriate;
As a result of the determination in the image reading setting determination step, there is an image reading setting correction step for automatically correcting the original image reading setting when it is determined that the setting is not appropriate. Method. A printing step for printing an image on paper;
An output setting information holding step for holding layout setting information of the print output input by the user;
An output setting determination step for determining whether the setting information held in the output setting information holding means is appropriate;
A method of embedding data in paper, comprising: an output setting correcting step for automatically correcting the setting of an output image when it is determined that the setting is not appropriate as a result of the determination in the output setting determining step. An image reading step for reading an original image;
A data decoding step for extracting data embedded in the read image;
Layout information detecting step for detecting layout information indicating how images are laid out in the document;
A setting information reading step of reading setting information from setting information holding means for holding reading settings of the original image input by the user;
An image reading setting determination step for determining whether the reading setting of the document image held in the setting information holding means is appropriate;
A computer-readable storage comprising: an image reading setting correcting step for automatically correcting an original image reading setting when it is determined that the setting is not appropriate as a result of the determination in the image reading setting determining step Medium. A printing step for printing an image on paper;
An output setting information holding step for holding layout setting information of the print output input by the user;
An output setting determination step for determining whether the setting information held in the output setting information holding means is appropriate;
A computer-readable storage medium comprising: an output setting correcting step for automatically correcting the setting of an output image when it is determined that the setting is not appropriate as a result of the determination in the output setting determining step.

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