JP2011145826A - Sequence code, method for decoding sequence code, article given with sequence code, article holding place given with sequence code, and sequence code recognition device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a code for finely and efficiently presenting information, a method and device to detect and recognize the code. <P>SOLUTION: In sequence codes being expressed as a pattern containing a plurality of elements each showing one data unit, the element is formed by containing one or more codes or the arrays. The array of elements is set so that all data expressed by sections which are arrays of predetermined number of elements which continue from different head positions respectively in the sequence codes may differ. The pattern is cyclically formed according to a rule of sequence code formation, with one or more elements or one or more symbols as a unit. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an information encoding technique, and more particularly to an information processing code attached to an article and a method and apparatus for recognizing the code.

  Efficient inventory management is a very important theme in a severe cost competition and a shortened delivery period mainly in the manufacturing and retail industries. For example, when carrying and managing a huge number of products and parts (generally called “goods”) in a vast warehouse, it is a cumbersome task to know exactly what and where there are. The same applies when managing a large number of books in a large library or bookstore.

  In general, it is a good idea to use an image captured by a camera to grasp what is located. In other words, the article and its position can be specified by photographing the space where the article exists with a camera and analyzing the image. If a bar code or other identification code is attached to the article in advance, the analysis of the image is easy to automate.

  For example, Patent Document 1 describes a method of adding a plurality of bar codes radially to a gear in order to detect a position on the gear. In this example, the barcodes are arranged so that the numbers represented by the barcodes increase with rotation, and one of the barcodes is read by a fixed barcode reader. The amount of rotation can be recognized.

  However, new problems arise in large spaces such as warehouses. Even when shooting with a camera, it is difficult to capture a large space or all articles with a single shooting. On the other hand, if a large number of photographs are taken, it is necessary to separately grasp the position where each image was taken. In the case of inventory management in a bookstore, many bookshelves are often similar, and even within a single bookshelf, it is not easy to identify which part of the bookshelf from an image.

JP 2006-38566 A Japanese Patent No. 4005621 JP 2008-287414 A JP 2009-3721 A

When managing an article and its position in a large space using automatic recognition technology, each position has a position relative to the whole as a method for identifying which part of the whole image is captured by the camera. There is a method of attaching a mark or code (hereinafter referred to as a mark or the like) representing coordinates.
As an example of inventory management at a bookstore, as an example, the position on a shelf can be specified at multiple locations on a shelf so that a book can be identified from which image on which shelf. A method of pasting each barcode shown is conceivable.
In such a case, it is necessary for the camera to have a resolution that can read at least each mark or the like.

Each mark or the like must individually express a numerical value indicating its coordinates. If the coordinates are to be shown in detail, the number of digits of the numerical value indicating the coordinates is increased, and the amount of information packed in the lively mark is increased, so that the mark is more complicated.
However, it is considered that a small mark that does not disturb the original purpose of inventory management or the like is desirable as the mark or the like representing such coordinates.

  In the case of a bookstore, in order to finely manage the storage position of each book, it is necessary to be able to specify the position on the shelf in detail. It is necessary to reduce the size and attach a large number of cords to the shelf board. In addition, in order to express each position in detail, the number of digits of the numerical value indicating each position is increased, and the amount of information of one bar code is increased, so the bar code must be expressed in more detail. Furthermore, since the barcode is attached to the shelf board, it is desirable that the barcode is as small as possible.

  Furthermore, when expressing a two-dimensional or three-dimensional positional relationship as a position, it is necessary for a mark or the like representing coordinates to indicate a two-dimensional or three-dimensional coordinate. Marks and codes are becoming more complicated and must be described in more detail.

  On the other hand, in order to efficiently manage inventory, it is required to capture a wide range with a single camera image capture. However, since the range that can be photographed at one time is limited in order to ensure the resolution for reading individual barcodes, the range that can be imaged at one time and the number of articles are reduced, and the efficiency of inventory management is reduced. .

  In addition to the automatic recognition code such as the above barcode, for example, it is also conceivable that the coordinates are indicated by numerals and read by OCR. Even in this case, if a detailed coordinate position is to be indicated, the number increases, and if it is expressed in a small area, it is considered that reading is difficult due to resolution, distortion, and the like.

  The present invention has been made in view of these problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a code for presenting information finely and efficiently, and a method and apparatus for detecting and recognizing the code.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, the continuous code according to an aspect of the present invention is a continuous code expressed as a pattern including a plurality of elements each indicating one data unit, and the element includes one or more symbols or the same. The array of elements is defined so that all the data expressed by the section, which is an array of a predetermined number of elements consecutive from different head positions in the continuous code, is different. A regular pattern expressed periodically is included with the above elements or one or more symbols as a unit.

  Yet another embodiment of the present invention is a decoding method. The method is a method for decoding a continuous code and converting it into a data string, and includes a section selection step of selecting one or more sections or one or more section data.

Yet another embodiment of the present invention is a code recognition device. This device is a code recognition device for recognizing a continuous code, and extracts an element from the extracted continuous code, and an element recognition unit for specifying each element;
An element decoding unit for decoding each element in data units;
A section selection section for selecting a section or section data.

  Yet another embodiment of the present invention is an article storage area. This article storage place is an article storage place having a region where a plurality of items can be stored, and a continuous code is attached in parallel to the region storing the items.

  Yet another aspect of the present invention is also an article storage area. This article storage area is an article storage room having a space capable of storing a plurality of articles, and is provided with a continuous code. When an article is stored, a part of the continuous code cannot be detected from the outside by the article. An area to which a continuous code is attached is determined so that

  Yet another aspect of the present invention is a continuous code. The continuous code is a continuous code that includes an arrangement of symbols and is read by a predetermined code recognition device, and includes a full width W1 of the continuous code and a window that can be detected by the code recognition device in one reading operation. The width W2 satisfies the relationship W1> W2 and is the number N1 of symbols included in the symbol array read in the detection window, and the number of symbols included in the symbol array, and the code recognition device means The minimum number N2 capable of interpreting the contents is configured to satisfy the relationship N1> N2.

  Yet another embodiment of the present invention is a code recognition device. This device is a code recognition device for reading a continuous code formed including a sequence of symbols, a detection unit for detecting a part of the continuous code, and decoding a sequence of symbols included in the detected continuous code A decoding unit. The total width W1 of the continuous code and the width W2 of the window that can be detected by the detection unit in one reading operation satisfy the relationship W1> W2, and the number of symbols included in the array of symbols read in the detection window N1 and the minimum number N2 that is the number of symbols included in the symbol array and can be interpreted by the code recognition apparatus are configured to satisfy the relationship N1> N2.

  Yet another aspect of the present invention is a continuous matrix code. The continuous matrix code is a continuous matrix code in which a pattern including a plurality of symbols is arranged in a lattice pattern, and each element formed by one or the array of symbols represents one data unit. In each row that is formed and the continuous matrix code is formed, the array of elements is determined so that all the data expressed by the section that is the array of a predetermined number of elements continuous from different head positions is different, and the continuous matrix code Are arranged so that the data represented by the section, which is an array of a predetermined number of elements consecutive from different head positions, are all different, and each element is a number indicated by that element. And the line that contains the element The difference between the number indicated by the element corresponding to the element in the previous or next row is determined to represent data regarding the position of the row in which the element is included, and each element is represented by the number indicated by the element. It is determined that the data regarding the position of the column including the element is represented by the difference between the number of the element corresponding to the element in the previous column or the next column including the element.

  Yet another aspect of the present invention is also a continuous matrix code. The continuous matrix code is a continuous matrix code in which a plurality of symbols, which are elements representing one data unit, are arranged in a grid, and each symbol is a reference position where the symbol is arranged. It is arranged so that data is expressed using the displacement from the grid points, and each row constituting the continuous matrix code alternates between a sign part formed by including a plurality of continuous symbols and a symbol indicating a boundary. In each row, the arrangement of symbols is determined so that all the data expressed by the section, which is an arrangement of a predetermined number of elements that are consecutive from different head positions, is different in each row. Each column is formed by alternately arranging a sign portion formed by including a plurality of continuous symbols and a symbol indicating a boundary. Oite, sequences in which the sections of the elements of a predetermined number of successive different head positions are respectively defined data array of all different symbols to represent.

  Yet another embodiment of the present invention is a decoding method. The method is a method for decoding a continuous matrix code and converting it into a data string, comprising a section selection step of selecting one or more sections or one or more section data.

Yet another embodiment of the present invention is a code recognition device. This device is a code recognition device for recognizing a continuous matrix code, and extracts an element from an extracted continuous code, and an element recognition unit for specifying each element;
An element decoding unit for decoding each element in data units;
A section selection section for selecting a section or section data.

  Yet another embodiment of the present invention is an article storage area. This article storage place is an article storage place having a region capable of storing a plurality of articles, and is provided with a continuous matrix code.

  Yet another aspect of the present invention is also an article storage area. This article storage area is an article storage area having a region capable of storing a plurality of articles, and is provided with a continuous matrix code. When an article is stored, a part of the continuous matrix code is externally provided by the article. An area to which a continuous matrix code is attached is determined so that the detection of the error is impossible.

  Yet another aspect of the present invention is an article. This article carries a continuous code in a form that can be detected one-dimensionally or two-dimensionally by an optical or electromagnetic technique.

  Note that any combination of the above components, the expression of the present invention converted between a method, an apparatus, a system, a computer program, a storage medium storing the computer program, a data structure, and the like are also included as aspects of the present invention. It is valid.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the code | cord | chord for showing information finely and efficiently, the method of detecting the code | cord | chord, and the apparatus which detects the code | cord | chord can be provided.

It is a figure which shows the structure of the code recognition apparatus which concerns on embodiment. 2A to 2C are diagrams showing regular patterns of continuous codes according to the embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of the continuous code expressed by the arrangement | sequence of the cell to which the color was attached | subjected. It is a figure which shows the example of the parameter sequence concerning embodiment of this invention produced by combining an equivalence number sequence and a delimiter code. It is a figure which shows the example of the continuous code which expressed the parameter sequence created using the equivalence number sequence and the delimiter code as a pattern by the arrangement | sequence of the colored cell. FIG. 6A is a diagram showing symbols formed by colored band-like cells, and FIG. 6B is a diagram showing a mother array created using an arithmetic sequence and a delimiter code. It is a figure which shows another example of the continuous code expressed as a pattern by the arrangement | sequence of the strip-shaped cell. It is a figure which shows the example of the continuous code patterned using the displacement of a dot symbol. It is a figure which shows the two-dimensional dot matrix code concerning embodiment. It is a figure which shows the continuous matrix code concerning embodiment. FIGS. 10A to 10C are diagrams illustrating examples of one-dimensional continuous codes with detection marks according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows the continuous matrix code which attached | subjected the detection mark represented with the straight line to the continuous matrix code shown in FIG. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a dot matrix code in which each dot symbol is represented by using a detection mark in the dot matrix code illustrated in FIG. 8. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure in which a code recognition apparatus detects a continuous code and recognizes each section separately. FIGS. 14A and 14B are diagrams showing examples of continuous codes according to the embodiment of the present invention, in which a data sequence using a repetitive parameter sequence is expressed as a pattern based on the arrangement of symbols. It is a figure which shows the example of the continuous matrix code expressed by the method similar to the method demonstrated in relation to FIG. 9 using the long data row | line | column which repeatedly used the parameter row | line | column for the X direction and the Y direction. It is a figure which shows the example of the continuous code | symbol which represented the same number using a different element by each cycle, in order to identify each cycle which is a repeating unit. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure which a code recognition apparatus pinpoints the position of the section based on the section of the extracted continuous code | cord | chord, and a cycle identification display. It is a figure which shows the example of the cyclic | annular continuous code concerning embodiment which has arrange | positioned the one-dimensional continuous code | cord | chord circularly. It is a figure which shows the example of the cyclic | annular matrix code concerning embodiment which has arrange | positioned the continuous matrix code | symbol in cyclic | annular form. It is a figure which shows another example of the cyclic | annular matrix code which has arrange | positioned the continuous matrix code in cyclic | annular form. FIGS. 21A and 21B are diagrams illustrating an example of a data string before being converted into a pattern when an information code for recording another data is embedded in a one-dimensional continuous code. It is a figure which shows the example of the continuous matrix code which embedded the information code which records the data different from the data which a continuous code expresses. It is a figure which shows the continuous matrix code which read-patterned the continuous matrix code of FIG. 22 using the line segment. The example of the image which the code recognition apparatus captured is shown.

[Overview]
First, the outline and terminology of the continuous code according to the embodiment will be described.
For example, it is assumed that a book placed on a shelf is located on the shelf using automatic recognition technology. In this case, it is necessary to be able to specify an arbitrary position on the shelf from the image taken by the camera. The continuous code according to the embodiment represents, for example, data representing a position on a shelf as a continuous pattern without interruption.

  As an example, a continuous cord 80 according to the embodiment is attached to the shelf board of FIG. 24 (details will be described later). Each booklet arranged on the shelf is a target object whose position is to be specified, and a target identification code 180 is attached to each booklet. By taking an image so that both the target identification code and the continuous code are within the field of view of the camera, and using automatic recognition technology, the information related to the book associated with the target identification code can be associated with the storage position of the book. .

In this specification, a code refers to an expressed pattern when data is expressed as a pattern that is a set of symbols in accordance with a predetermined standard. Further, a part constituting a part of the pattern such as “mark” or “cell” is referred to as “symbol”.
For example, in FIG. 5 (details will be described later), ellipses written as R, G, and B indicate cells colored in red, green, and blue, and each of these colored cells is a “symbol”. .

  Individual numbers such as “0”, “2”, and “1” in the data string 84 represented by the continuous code 80 in FIG. 5 are referred to as “minimum data unit” or “data unit”. That is, the “minimum data unit” is the minimum unit of data represented by the code. For example, it is one number or one character, and is 0 or 1 in the case of digital data.

  A part of the pattern of the continuous code 80 and representing one “minimum data unit” is referred to as an “element”. In the continuous code 80 of FIG. 5, each number, that is, each minimum data unit is represented by an element composed of two cells. For example, “0” is expressed by the element “RG”, and “1” is expressed by the element “RB”.

An element may or may not correspond to a “symbol” on a one-to-one basis. For example, in the continuous code 80 of FIG. 5, the elements do not correspond to the symbols on a one-to-one basis, and an arrangement of two symbols constitutes one element.
In addition, one element is not necessarily assigned to one “minimum data unit”, and two or more different elements may be assigned. In the continuous code 80 of FIG. 5, two types of elements “BG” and “GB” are assigned to the minimum data unit “2”, and either one is selected so that cells of the same color do not continue. Has been used.

  The continuous code 80 is a continuous code that is uninterrupted over a long range. However, in order to specify the position of a target on a shelf board using the continuous code 80, for example, the position of the continuous code 80 is changed. What is necessary is just to read the recorded part. A portion of the continuous code 80 that records some meaningful information (hereinafter also referred to as significant data) like this “position on the shelf” is referred to as “section”. Data represented by “section” is referred to as “section data”. The continuous code 80 is formed so that all of the section data expressed by each section is different.

  In the continuous code 80 of FIG. 5, each section 98 is composed of four elements, that is, eight colored cells. The sections are arranged so as to overlap while shifting the head of each section by one element. When the position of a target object such as a booklet is specified using a continuous code, a rule for associating the target object with a section according to their positional relationship is determined in advance. Then, the code recognition device reads a section associated with a certain target object according to the rule, and recognizes section data represented by the section. Since the section data can be uniquely specified in the data string 84, the position of the section data can be specified in the data string 84. Thereby, the position information of the read section can be obtained in the continuous code 80, and the position of the target object can be specified.

  As described above, by arranging the sections in an overlapping manner, more information can be recorded in a limited space, and the resolution and field of view of the code recognition device can be effectively utilized.

  The section size is determined to be smaller than the field of view of the code recognition device. That is, the size of the section is determined so that the code recognition device can read at least one section by one reading operation. Here, one reading operation is, for example, one imaging or one scanning operation, and one scanning may be completed by a series of a plurality of sub-scans. Further, a range that can be detected by the code recognition device in one reading operation is also referred to as a detection window of the code recognition device.

  The continuous code is formed so that all of the section data represented by each section is different. Thus, each section can be uniquely identified by reading each section data. In the continuous code 80 of FIG. 5, the section data represented by each section 98 is a partial number sequence 96, and the respective partial number sequences 96 are all different. In the data string 84, the partial number strings 96 are arranged so as to overlap each other while shifting the beginning thereof by a number, that is, one minimum data unit.

Thus, for example, a continuous code that represents data representing the position of each point as an uninterrupted continuous pattern usually has a spread outside the reading screen range of the camera. The end point is not clear. Also, the size of the code in the image is not constant depending on the image acquisition conditions. Further, in the continuous code, the data represented is marked so as to overlap.
Consecutive codes differ from ordinary non-continuous automatic recognition codes in the above points, and these are considered to be factors that make so-called “cutting out” of continuous codes difficult. In automatic recognition of continuous codes, it is necessary to remove the concept of the start point and the end point, and to incorporate a cutting concept from which the concept of data blocks has been removed.

As described above, by arranging marks and the like indicating a positional relationship in a distributed and overlapping manner, even if coordinate data or the like indicating a detailed positional relationship can be expressed without making the code pattern fine and complicated. Further, even if the size of the code is not disturbed for the main purpose of image acquisition, the code can be read even without a high-resolution camera.
Further, by using a constant regular pattern of continuous codes, even a pattern whose start point and end point are not clear can be detected as a code.

  In this specification, when each section of a continuous code represents position data, the continuous code is also referred to as a “position code”. However, the data recorded by each section is not limited to position data. For example, it is possible to prepare a recorded table in which a partial sequence represented by each section is associated with desired information to be recorded with respect to the section, and the table may be referred to when the code recognition device reads the section. . Thereby, desired information can be recorded in each section.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention (hereinafter referred to as “embodiments”) will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 shows a configuration of a code recognition apparatus 100 according to the embodiment.
The code recognition apparatus 100 uses a continuous code to specify the position of a target object such as a booklet. The code recognition apparatus 100 includes a code detection unit 10 that captures and recognizes a target identification code and a continuous code, a target ID acquisition unit 40 that acquires target identification information from the recognized target identification code, and a read continuous code A position information acquisition unit 50 that specifies a position, a target position specification unit 60 that specifies the position of each target object, and an output unit 70 are included.

  The code detection unit 10 includes a reading unit 12 that acquires an image including a target identification code and a continuous code, a target code extraction unit 18 that cuts out a target identification code attached to the target from the read image, and a continuous code from the read image. Is provided with a position code extracting unit 24 for cutting out a section data, and a section data acquiring unit 30 for acquiring section data from the cut out position code. The reading unit 12 includes an input unit 14 that captures an image including a code with optical means, and a quantization unit 16 that quantizes each pixel value of an image acquired as preprocessing for extracting the code. When the code is expressed using magnetism, the input unit 14 may measure the magnetism of the code and its surrounding environment using magnetic means. Hereinafter, the terms “imaging” and “image” are used, including cases where the image is acquired by magnetic means or other means.

  The target code extraction unit 18 includes a target cutout condition determination unit 20 that determines whether or not a pattern included in the read image constitutes a target identification code, and a target that cuts out the code when it is determined to constitute a target identification code A cut-out processing unit 22. The target code extraction unit 18 sends information about the position of the extracted target identification code in the image to the section data acquisition unit 30 and sends information about the cut target identification code to the target ID acquisition unit 40.

  The target ID acquisition unit 40 stores a target identification code and target identification information (hereinafter also referred to as target ID) in association with each other, and a storage based on the target identification code acquired from the target code extraction unit 18. And a target ID specifying unit 42 that refers to the unit 44 and acquires the identification information of the target to which the target identification code is attached. The target ID acquisition unit 40 transmits the acquired target identification information to the target position specifying unit 60.

  The position code extraction unit 24 includes a position code extraction condition determination unit 26 that determines whether or not a pattern included in the read image constitutes a position code, and a position code extraction process that extracts the code when it is determined that the position code is configured. Part 28.

  The section data acquisition unit 30 includes a cell recognition unit 32, an element recognition unit 34, an element decoding unit 36, and a section selection unit 38. The cell recognizing unit 32 extracts cells that satisfy the cell cut-out conditions from the pattern included in the code received from the position code extracting unit 24, and identifies each cell. The element recognition unit 34 extracts the cells constituting each element from the extracted cell array based on the element configuration rules, and specifies each element. Here, an example in which cells are used as symbols is shown.

The element decoding unit 36 decodes each recognized element into a minimum data unit. The section selection unit 38 selects section data by designating the minimum data unit decoded from the element. The section selection unit 38 may select a section by designating an element before the element decoding unit 36 decodes each element to the minimum data unit. In this case, after the section is selected, the element decoding unit 36 decodes each element belonging to the selected section to the minimum data unit. Thereby, section data can be acquired.
The section data acquisition unit 30 transmits the acquired section data to the position information acquisition unit 50.

  The position information acquisition unit 50 specifies a position information specifying unit 52 that specifies information about the position of the section acquired from the section data acquisition unit 30, and a cycle information specifying unit 54 that specifies information about a cycle (described later) to which the selected section belongs. And a coordinate calculation unit 56 for calculating the position coordinates of the section from the information on the section position and the cycle. The position information acquisition unit 50 transmits the acquired coordinates to the target position specifying unit 60.

  The target position specifying unit 60 specifies the position of each target object by associating the target ID acquired from the target ID acquiring unit 40 with the coordinates of the section acquired from the position information acquiring unit 50, and transmits the target object to the output unit 70. . The output unit 70 outputs the obtained information as a display signal or an audio signal. The display signal and the audio signal output from the output unit 70 are provided as information to the user via an LCD or other display device, a speaker, or the like (not shown).

[Regular pattern]
The continuous code is a continuous pattern that is longer or wider than a normal barcode. Therefore, normally, the code recognition device cannot capture the entire continuous code in one reading operation, and the start and end points of the continuous code are not included in the detection window of the code recognition device. Also, the number and size of symbols included in the screen are indefinite. Therefore, when a code is cut out from the background and read, a method different from that of a normal code is required.

  The continuous code is configured to have a periodic pattern according to the rules for forming a continuous code. Even if the detection window does not contain the start point and end point of the continuous code, the code recognition apparatus can detect the continuous code by recognizing this periodic pattern and distinguishing it from the background portion other than the continuous code. Further, by forming a continuous code so that the period of the regular pattern appears as a unit of one or more elements or one or more symbols, the code recognition device can compare with the period of the pattern expressed regularly, It becomes possible to recognize the size of one symbol.

2A to 2C are diagrams for explaining an example of a rule for forming a continuous code according to the embodiment.
FIG. 2A shows an example of a continuous code 80 expressed by an array of colored cells.
In this code, a cell 82 colored in red, green, or blue is used as a symbol.
In FIG. 2A, cells denoted as R, G, and B indicate cells colored in red, green, and blue, respectively. In the following drawings, the colored cells are similarly expressed.

  In the continuous code 80 shown in FIG. 2A, two cells constitute an element. An element in which one red cell and one green cell are arranged in this order is the minimum data unit “0”, and an element in which one red cell and one blue cell are arranged in this order is Each represents the minimum data unit “1”.

  The continuous code 80 in FIG. 2A is formed in accordance with the continuous code formation rule that every other red cell appears. That is, the cell arrangement is determined such that red cells appear periodically with two cells as one unit as one unit.

2A to 2C, for explanation, a data string 84 that is a series of data represented by the continuous code 80 is surrounded by a broken line and arranged below the continuous code 80. In the following drawings, the original data string 84 converted into a pattern is similarly expressed. The data string 84 is also referred to as a parameter string.
As described above, the sections in the continuous code 80 are arranged so as to overlap each other by one element. In the continuous code 80 of FIGS. 2A to 2C, the three sections from the head are arranged. Only 98 is shown. Similarly, in the following figures, only the three sections 98 from the top are shown.

  In the continuous code 80 shown in FIG. 2A, each section 98 is composed of four elements, that is, eight colored cells. The sections are arranged so as to overlap each other while shifting the head thereof by one element, that is, by two cells.

  As described above, the continuous code is configured so that each section data is all different. Each section data expressed by each section 98 of the continuous code 80 in FIG. 2A corresponds to a partial sequence 96 in the data sequence 84. In the continuous code 80 of FIGS. 2B and 2C, the same data string 84 is used as the original data. As the continuous code data string 84, a parameter string in which the partial number strings 96 are all different is used.

  In FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C, a numerical sequence “0000100110101111”, which is one of the binary debrijn (DeBrijn) number sequences, is used as a parameter sequence in which each partial number sequence 96 is different. In this number sequence, partial number sequences 96 consisting of consecutive four-digit numbers starting from different head positions, such as “0000”, “0001”, “0010”, etc. are all different from each other.

FIG. 2B shows another example of the continuous code 80 expressed by an array of colored cells. Also in this code, a cell 82 colored in red, green, or blue is used as a symbol.
In the continuous code 80 of FIG. 2B, two adjacent cells constitute an element representing the minimum data unit. However, in this example, the elements overlap each other. An element in which a red cell and a green cell, a green cell and a blue cell, a blue cell and a red cell are arranged in this order represents the minimum data unit “0”, and the green cell, the red cell, and the blue cell An element in which a green cell, a red cell, and a blue cell are arranged in this order represents the minimum data unit “1”.

  In the continuous code 80 of FIG. 2B, each section 98 is composed of four elements. The sections are arranged so as to overlap each other with their heads shifted by one cell.

  The continuous code 80 in FIG. 2B is formed in accordance with a continuous code formation rule in which two types of color cells are alternately arranged. That is, one large cell and one small cell are periodically arranged with two symbols as one unit.

FIG. 2C shows an example of another continuous code 80 expressed by an arrangement of three types of symbols, symbol ●, upward triangle symbol, and downward triangle symbol. In this continuous code 80, the downward triangle symbol and the upward triangle symbol indicate “0” and “1”, which are the minimum data units, respectively. Each of the downward triangle symbol and the upward triangle symbol is also an element because it represents one minimum data unit. The symbol ● is a check symbol, and the continuous code 80 is formed in accordance with a continuous code formation rule that a check symbol ● appears every other symbol. That is, one symbol ● is periodically arranged with three symbols as one unit.
In the continuous code 80 of FIG. 2C, each section 98 is composed of four elements. The sections are arranged so as to overlap each other with their heads shifted by one element.

FIG. 3 shows another example of a continuous code 80 represented by an array of colored cells. Also in the continuous code 80 of FIG. 3, the cell 82 colored in red, green, or blue is used as a symbol. However, a generating function different from the continuous code 80 of FIGS. The continuous code 80 is formed by patterning based on a rule different from the examples 2 (a) to (c).
In FIGS. 2A to 2C, one binary binary-in number sequence is used as the data sequence 84. However, in the example of FIG. 3, one binary tertiary-in sequence is used. Since it is a ternary number, it is necessary to express three types of numbers “0”, “1”, and “2” as the minimum data unit, but the coloring cells are the same as those in FIGS. 2A and 2B. In addition, since only three colors are used, the element length is longer than in the examples of FIGS. 2 (a) and 2 (b).

In the continuous code 80 shown in FIG. 3, six cells form one element. When the red, green, and blue cells are represented by R, G, and B, respectively, the elements arranged in the order of RGRBRG are the minimum data unit “0”, and the elements arranged in the order of RGRBRB are the minimum data unit “1”. The elements arranged in the order of RGRGBB represent the minimum data unit 2 respectively.
The continuous code 80 in FIG. 3 is formed in accordance with a continuous code formation rule that three cells arranged in the order of RGR appear periodically. That is, three RGR cells are periodically arranged with one element consisting of six cells as a unit.

As described above, the continuous code according to the present invention is configured so that the data represented by each section are all different.
In FIG. 3, a part “00010020110...” Of a ternary dull-in number sequence, which is a parameter sequence in which the partial number sequences 96 are all different, is used as the data sequence 84. In this data sequence 84, partial sequence 96 consisting of three consecutive numbers starting from different head positions such as “000”, “001”, “010”, “100”, etc. are all different from each other.

2 (a)-(c) and FIG. 3, the continuous code 80 is a periodic unit of one or more elements or symbols according to the rules for forming a continuous code. Configured to have a pattern.
In addition to the above example, the continuous code 80 can be formed to have various periodic patterns. For example, the continuous code 80 may be formed on the basis of a rule that a marker part including two or more elements and an element indicating a boundary between the marker parts are alternately arranged. Details will be described later.

  In this way, by forming the continuous code 80 to have a periodic pattern in accordance with the rules for forming a continuous code, even if the start point and the end point of the continuous code are unclear, the code recognition device When a continuous code is cut out, it is possible to distinguish the background code other than the continuous code from the continuous code and cut out the continuous code. Even if it is indefinite how many symbols are included in the image, the code recognition device recognizes the size of one symbol or one element based on the pattern period, and reads each symbol using it. It becomes possible.

  As mentioned above, some examples of the regular pattern have been shown, but the regular pattern referred to in this specification means that the regular pattern is not necessarily limited to the size and shape, and has a regular pattern that can be detected in the arrangement method. .

For example, a regular pattern can be formed by a code arrangement method that depends only on the color arrangement, even if the rules for dimensions and shapes are not defined.
As a method for detecting such a regular pattern, for example, the methods described in Patent Documents 3 and 4 by the present inventor can be applied and applied. Patent Documents 3 and 4 describe code extraction methods that depend only on the color arrangement.
These are methods for detecting (branching) a color arrangement that matches the color branching and parallel conditions as a code. These extraction methods are not intended for the code of the idea that the start point and the end point are not defined as in the present application, but in the method described in these documents, the total number of cells, start point, end point condition, It can be applied to the present application by removing the error detection condition.

In these examples, the cutout depends on the color boundary condition (Patent Document 3) or the color parallel condition (Patent Document 4).
That is, it can be said that the detection is based on a rule defined for the color boundary condition or a rule defined for the color parallel condition. As described above, the regular pattern referred to in this specification is not limited to the size and shape, and includes various regular patterns that can be detected in the arrangement method.

[Discharge data specification]
As described above, in the continuous code according to the present invention, a plurality of section data are recorded in duplicate. For this reason, a method different from usual is required for designating data to be read and output.

  When multiple significant data is represented by a normal, non-duplicate code, each significant data is recorded as a self-contained code, even if it appears to be a continuous pattern, and a separate block of code in the code Will be placed. That is, the sections for recording each significant data are divided. Therefore, when reading such a code, one section is cut out as a block using a cutout mark or the like.

  On the other hand, in the continuous code according to the present invention, sections that represent section data that is significant data are arranged in duplicate. Therefore, when attention is paid to a symbol or element having a continuous code, there are a plurality of sections including the symbol or element. Similarly, when attention is paid to a certain minimum data unit in the data string represented by the continuous code, there are a plurality of section data including the minimum data unit.

  In this embodiment, when selecting section data to be read, a rule for associating an element with a section or a rule for associating a minimum data unit with section data is determined in advance. Then, the section to be read is specified by specifying the element. Alternatively, the section data to be read is designated by designating the minimum data unit in the array of minimum data units obtained by decoding the elements constituting the continuous code. Details will be described later in connection with the flowchart of FIG.

[Equation sequence]
In the continuous code according to the present invention, all the data expressed by the section composed of a predetermined number of elements continuous from different head positions are different. In the example of FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, the example which produces a continuous code | cord | chord by patterning a debull in number sequence was shown.
The debleed number sequence has a different property in all permutations of a predetermined number of numbers (hereinafter also referred to as partial sequence) from different head positions of the parameter sequence. However, the Debull-in number sequence has no regularity in the arrangement of each partial number sequence. Therefore, for example, when it is desired to know the position of each section in the continuous code 80, a partial number sequence and a table in which the position of the partial number sequence in the parameter sequence is prepared in advance, and the partial number sequence is prepared. Must be referenced each time

  The inventor has found that by combining an arithmetic sequence and a delimiter code, a parameter sequence having the same properties as the Debull-in sequence and having regularity in the arrangement of each partial sequence can be created.

  FIG. 4 shows an example of a parameter sequence 90 created by combining an equality sequence and a delimiter. 000, 001, 010, 011, 100, 101, 110, and 111 are terms of an equidistant sequence having a binary number of 3 digits and a tolerance of 1. In FIG. 4, the numeral “2” is used as the delimiter 94, and the terms of the arithmetic sequence and the delimiters 94 are alternately arranged.

  When partial number sequences 96a, 96b, 96c,... Consisting of four consecutive numbers from the top of the parameter sequence 90 are sequentially taken out, 2000, 0002, 0020, 0200, 2001, 0012, 0120, 1201, 2010, 0102, 29 partial sequences of 1020, 0201, 2011, 0112, 1121, 1210, 2100, 1002, 0021, 0210, 2101, 1012, 0121, 1211210, 1102, 1021, 0211, 2111 can be extracted. These partial sequences are all different.

  It should be noted that there should be a total of 32 number sequences consisting of four numbers including two and the rest being 0 or 1. If the first three digits “200” are added to the end of the parameter sequence 90 in FIG. 4, three more partial sequence sequences 1112, 1120, and 1200 can be extracted, and all 32 partial sequence sequences are covered. That is, when a binary sequence of 3 digits is used to create a parameter sequence in which all the partial sequences are different, a sequence in which all the terms of the differential sequence and the delimiters are alternately arranged and then the first 3 digits are arranged. The longest number sequence is a parameter sequence in which the partial number sequences are all different.

  As described above, when a parameter sequence having different partial sequences is used, it is possible to specify where the partial sequence is located in the parameter sequence by reading the partial sequence. By using such a continuous code obtained by patterning a partial sequence, for example, the position of a target object, the position of the code recognition device itself, and the like can be specified.

  For example, instead of finely describing the coordinates on each point on the X axis, a parameter string 90 is displayed in parallel with the X axis as shown in FIG. 4, or a continuous code in which the parameter string 90 is patterned is displayed. At this time, it is assumed that the target object A is at the position indicated by the white arrow on the X axis in FIG. The code recognition device reads a partial sequence “0210” composed of four consecutive numbers from the number closest to the object A. Then, since only one partial sequence 96t exists in the parameter sequence, the code recognition apparatus can specify the position of the target object A.

In the following, the example of the parameter sequence shown in FIG. 4 is generalized, and the number of digits of the arithmetic sequence is arranged by alternately arranging an arithmetic sequence of arbitrary digits, an arbitrary radix, an arbitrary tolerance, and a separator. It is shown that a parameter sequence can be created in which the partial sequence with a length of 1 is all different.
In the present specification, the “radix” refers to the bottom of the scale system. For example, the binary base number is 2, and the decimal base number is 10.

The first x term of an arithmetic progression of tolerance r expressed in n-ary number of m digits to C _x. That is,
C _{x + 1} −C _x = r (Formula 1)
It is. Here, m and n are integers of 2 or more, r is a natural number, and x is an integer of 0 or more.
Using Z as a delimiter, alternating with the above arithmetic sequence to create a parameter sequence,
C ₀ ZC ₁ ZC ₂ ZC ₃ ZC ₄ ZC ₅ Z... (Formula 2)
It becomes. When using an m-digit n-ary number arithmetic sequence, a number or character other than the numbers from 0 to n−1 is used as the delimiter so that it can be distinguished from the numbers constituting the differential sequence.
The minimum data unit of this parameter string is one number or one character.

In the following, it is shown that all the arrays (hereinafter also referred to as partial sequences) of m + 1 minimum data units starting from an arbitrary minimum data unit are all different for this parameter sequence.
Here, it is clear that partial sequences having different delimiter positions in the partial sequence are different from each other. Therefore, it is only necessary to show that the partial sequences having the same delimiter positions in the partial sequence are different from each other.

  Here, each partial sequence is a sequence in which terms having a delimiter Z and an arithmetic sequence are arranged, or the number of the latter half of the number of terms having an arithmetic sequence, the delimiter Z, and an arithmetic sequence It can be seen that the number of the first half of the number of a term is arranged in this order.

When the partial sequence is a sequence in which terms having a delimiter Z and an arithmetic sequence are arranged, the partial sequence is C ₀ Z, C ₁ Z, C ₂ Z, C ₃ Z, C ₄ Z, C ₅ Z, .. Or a shape such as ZC ₀ , ZC ₁ , ZC ₂ , ZC ₃ , ZC ₄ Z... The partial sequence starting with the delimiter Z and the partial sequence starting with the end are clearly different. Further, since the terms of the arithmetic sequence are different from each other, in this case, the partial sequences are different.

Hereinafter, a case will be considered where the partial sequence is the number of the latter half of the number of terms with an arithmetic sequence, the delimiter Z, and the number of the first half of the number of terms with an arithmetic sequence in this order. .
At this time, each partial sequence includes the second half k−1 digit portion of the x-th term C _x of the arithmetic sequence, the delimiter Z, and the first half m−k + 1 digit portion of the x + 1-th term C _{x + 1} of the differential sequence. Suppose it is a combination.
Here, k is an arbitrary integer from 2 to m-1.
The partial sequences with different k are obviously different because the position of the delimiter Z in each partial sequence is different. Therefore, in the following, it is shown that all partial sequences having the same k are different.

C _x is considered by dividing it into a number B _x from the first digit to the (k−1) th digit and a number A _x from the k-th digit to the m-th digit. Since _Cx is an m-digit number, _Ax is an m-k + 1 digit, and _Bx is a k-1 digit number. Using A _x and B _x to represent the x-th term of the arithmetic progression,
_Cx = _Ax * ^nk-1 + _Bx (Formula 3)
It becomes. However, in this specification, the symbol “*” represents a product.
The x + 1th term of this arithmetic sequence is
C _{x + 1} = A _{x + 1} * n ^k-1 + B _{x + 1} (Formula 4)
It is.

For example, for an 8-digit decimal number Cx = 12345678, if k = 6, then A _x = 123, B _x = 45678,
C _x = 123 * 10 ⁵ + 45678 = 12300000 + 45678
It can be expressed.

When the parameter sequence of (Expression 2) is expressed using A _x and B _x ,
A ₀ B ₀ ZA ₁ B ₁ ZA ₂ B ₂ ZA ₃ B ₃ ZA ₄ B ₄ ZA ₅ B ₅ Z
It becomes.
Here, partial sequences B ₀ ZA ₁ , B ₁ ZA ₂ , B ₂ ZA ₃ , B ₃ ZA ₄ , B ₄ ZA ₅ ... Are all different.
Since Z position all equal, sequence and first half _{A x + 1} of the second half of the _{C x} part _{B x} and _{C x + 1} is formed in this order, and the second half portion _{B y} of _Cy, and the first half _{A y + 1} of _{C y + 1} It shows that it is different from the sequence formed in this order. However, x ≠ y. In the following, explanation will be made using the apocalypse.

Assume first half _{A x + 1} of the second half _{B x} and _{C x + 1} of C _x is the latter part _{B y} and the first half of the _{C y + 1} of _{C y,} respectively coincide. That is,
B _x = B _y
A _{x + 1} = A _{y + 1}
Assume that

in this case,
^{_{C y = A y * n k}} -1 + B y = A y * n k-1 + B x ( Equation 5)
C _{y + 1} = A _{y + 1} * n ^k−1 + B _{y + 1} = A _{x + 1} * n ^k−1 + B _{y + 1} (Formula 6)
Holds. Further, since C _y and C _{y + 1} are adjacent terms in the arithmetic progression,
C _{y + 1} −C _y = r (Formula 7)
It is.

By the way, from (Expression 1), (Expression 3) and (Expression 4),
^{_{C x + 1 -C x = (}} A x + 1 * n k-1 + B x + 1) - a ^{(A x * n k-1} + B x) = r. Therefore,
B _{x + 1} −A _x * n ^k−1 = r− (A _{x + 1} * n ^k−1 −B _x ) (Formula 8)
Holds.

From (Equation 5), (Equation 6) and (Equation 7),
C _{y + 1} −C _y = (A _{x + 1} * n ^k−1 + B _{y + 1} ) − (A _y * n ^k−1 + B _x ) = r
It is. Therefore,
B _{y + 1} −A _y * n ^k−1 = r− (A _{x + 1} * n ^k−1 −B _x ) (Formula 9)

Since the right side of Equation 8 and the right side of Equation 9 are equal,
B _{x + 1} −A _x * n ^k−1 = B _{y + 1} −A _y * n ^k−1
Holds. If this equation is transformed,
_{B x + 1 -B y + 1} = (A x -A y) * n k-1 ( Equation 10)
Becomes _a, B x, since _{B y} is a both k-1 digit number,
B _{x + 1} −B _{y + 1} <n ^k−1
It is. Therefore, Equation 10 holds
B _{x + 1} = B _{y + 1} and A _x = A _y (formula 11)
Limited to.

However, from the assumption,
Since B _x = B _y , C _x = C _y when combined with A _x = A _y in (Equation 11). However, since it is assumed that x ≠ y and each term constituting the arithmetic progression is different, it is contradictory.
Therefore, it has been proved that an arithmetic sequence having an arbitrary number of digits, an arbitrary radix, an arbitrary tolerance, and a delimiter can be alternately arranged to create a parameter sequence in which each partial sequence is completely different.

  When m-digit n-ary numbers are used, as the partial number sequence, m + 1 consecutive numbers obtained by adding a delimiter to the partial number sequence can be taken out so that the partial number sequences are all different combinations. Naturally, even when m + 1 or more consecutive numbers are taken out as a partial sequence, each partial sequence is different.

Tolerances, it is preferable to either the number or the first is a relatively prime to n ^m is the total number of the number represented by m digits n-ary number. Thereby, since the number of terms of the arithmetic progression is maximized, the length of the parameter sequence can be maximized. Note that here, when referred to as an arithmetic sequence, each term is expressed within the range of the given number of digits, and the number of digits to be carried is rounded down when the number is raised beyond the given number of digits.

For example, the parameter sequence 90 shown in FIG. 4 is created by alternately arranging terms of an arithmetic sequence with 3 binary digits and a tolerance of 1 and 2 as a delimiter.
On the other hand, a parameter sequence created by alternately arranging terms of an equidistant sequence having a binary number of 3 digits and a tolerance of 3 and a delimiter of 2 is as follows.
20002011211020012100211102102101
“3”, which is the tolerance of the arithmetic sequence used for this parameter sequence, is relatively prime to 2 ³ , that is, the total number of binary numbers of 3 digits, that is, 8 and the length of this parameter sequence is shown in FIG. The same as the parameter sequence 90.

On the other hand, a parameter sequence created by alternately arranging terms of an equidistant sequence having a binary number of 3 digits and a tolerance of 2 and a delimiter of 2 is as follows.
2000201021002110
The tolerance of the arithmetic sequence used for this parameter sequence is “2”, which is the total number of binary three-digit numbers 2 ³ , that is, not relatively prime to 8, and the length of this parameter sequence is shown in FIG. Shorter than the parameter sequence 90.

  By using an arithmetic sequence and a delimiter, it is possible to create a parameter sequence having various variations with a desired length, a desired radix, and a desired tolerance. Moreover, each term of the arithmetic progression can be calculated. Therefore, for example, when you want to know the position of each section in the continuous code, prepare a partial sequence and a table that associates the position of the partial sequence in the parameter sequence in advance and refer to it every time you read the partial sequence. There is no need to do.

  Further, in a parameter sequence in which terms of an arithmetic progression and alternating delimiters are alternately arranged, when each minimum data unit is expressed by an element, an element group expressing each term of the arithmetic sequence and an element expressing the delimiter are The pattern is alternately arranged. That is, a continuous code created using such a parameter string as data is formed in accordance with a rule for forming a continuous code in which a marker part including two or more elements and elements indicating boundaries between the marker parts are alternately arranged. Will be. Thereby, when the code recognition apparatus cuts out the continuous code, the continuous code portion can be cut out by distinguishing the background image other than the continuous code and the continuous code even if the start point and the end point of the code are unclear. In addition, the code recognition device can recognize the size of one symbol or one element as compared with the period of the pattern, and can read each symbol or element using this.

FIG. 5 shows an example of a continuous code 80 in which a parameter sequence created using an equidistant sequence and a delimiter is expressed as a pattern based on an array of colored cells.
In the continuous code 80 shown in FIG. 5, two cells constitute one element. When red, green, and blue cells are represented by R, G, and B, respectively, RG represents the minimum data unit “0”, and RB represents the minimum data unit “1”.

  As described above, in a continuous code, one element is not necessarily assigned to one “minimum data unit”, and two or more different elements may be assigned. In the continuous code 80 of FIG. 5, BG and GB are allocated as elements representing the minimum data unit “2”. When the element representing the minimum data unit “2” is used, either BG or GB is selected and used so that the color is different from that of the adjacent cell. Thus, by determining the arrangement of chromatic cells so that the colors of adjacent cells are always different, the code code recognition device can detect the range of one cell even when the sizes of the cells are different, for example. .

  The data string 84 to be converted as a pattern by the continuous code of FIG. 5 is a parameter string created by alternately arranging each term of a binary digit 3-digit arithmetic sequence and a delimiter “2”. is there. In FIG. 5, “2” which is the delimiter 94 in the data string 84 is surrounded by a dotted line. In this parameter sequence, the partial sequence 96 composed of four consecutive numbers from different head positions are all different. In this way, in the parameter sequence created by alternately arranging the terms of the m-digit arithmetic sequence and the delimiters, the partial sequence consisting of m + 1 numbers consecutive from different head positions is all different. .

  Therefore, in the continuous code in which each data minimum unit of the parameter sequence created by alternately arranging each term of the m-digit arithmetic sequence and the delimiter is converted into an element, m + 1 consecutive from different head positions. All sections with different elements are different. In the continuous code 80 of FIG. 5, all the data expressed by the section 98 composed of four elements continuous from different head positions are different.

  The continuous code 80 in FIG. 5 is formed according to the rule that three red cells are arranged every other cell, and then three cells other than red are arranged in succession. In the continuous code 80 of FIG. 5, the arrangement of the cells is determined so that this regular pattern is periodically repeated with eight cells, that is, four elements as one unit.

  FIGS. 6A and 6B show another example of a continuous code 80 in which a mother array created using an arithmetic sequence and a delimiter is expressed as a pattern by an array of colored band-like cells. The continuous code 80 is expressed by using a 1.5D color bit code disclosed in Patent Document 2 having the same applicant as the present invention.

  In the 1.5D color bit code, one number is represented by a symbol including three strip-like regions. The color assigned to each band-like region is determined in advance, and each part of each band-like region takes either an on state that is colored with the determined color or an off state that is not colored. Of the three strip regions, only one region is switched on / off at a time, and the on / off state is switched twice in one symbol. By arranging such symbols so as to be continuous with the adjacent symbols, a pattern according to the on / off state of the three strip-like regions is formed as a whole. Each symbol can be recognized by following the three band-like regions from the starting point and detecting only the order in which the on / off state switches in each region. The 1.5D color bit code has a property of being resistant to distortion and blurring of dimensions and shape, blurring, and the like.

  FIG. 6A shows elements that are symbols representing “0”, “1”, “2”, “3”, “4”, “Z”, which are the minimum data units, and a start symbol representing the start position. Indicates. Two elements are prepared for each minimum data unit from “0” to “4”. Thereby, when each minimum data unit is converted into a pattern, an element to be used is appropriately selected according to the previous element, and each element and an adjacent element share a band-like region that is turned on at the boundary. It can be an array.

6B shows a data string 84 to be converted as a pattern in the lower stage, and converts the data string 84 in the upper stage in accordance with the symbol system of FIG. Show.
In the continuous code 80 of FIG. 6B, two colors are used in addition to the ground color, and the upper belt-like region and the lower belt-like region are the same color, and the middle belt-like region is a color different from that color. Show.

  The data string 84 in FIG. 6B is a mother array created by alternately arranging each term of an arithmetic sequence of two-digit quinary numbers and a delimiter code “Z”. In this data string 84, the partial arrays consisting of three codes consecutive from different head positions are all different. Therefore, in the continuous code 80 of FIG. 6B, the sections 98 composed of three elements that are continuous from different head positions are all different.

  In the continuous code 80 of FIG. 6B, an element expressing the delimiter “Z” is shown surrounded by a dotted line. In the 1.5D color bit code, the color of one band-like area is turned on / off at a time. The continuous code 80 is formed in accordance with a rule for forming a continuous code in which a delimiter is arranged four times between feature points at which such a color is turned on / off. This regular pattern appears repeatedly with three elements as one unit.

  In this way, by adopting a configuration in which the element can be traced only by the on / off change of the color in each band-like region, the continuous cord 80 in FIG. 6B has distortion, blurring, and blurring of dimensions and shape. However, it can be read as long as the continuity and the band-like topology are maintained. Therefore, it is possible to provide a continuous code with high reading accuracy even when a code is attached to an easily distorted article or when the code is attached in an environment where printing accuracy is not high.

[One-dimensional dot code]
FIG. 7 shows an example of a continuous code 80 patterned using dot symbol displacement. A data string 84 shown in the lower part of FIG. 7 is a parameter string created by alternately arranging each term of a binary 4-digit arithmetic sequence and a delimiter “2”. In this mother array, the partial sequence composed of five consecutive numbers from different head positions are all different.

In the continuous code 80 of FIG. 7, data is expressed using the displacement of each symbol from a predetermined reference position. In the example of FIG. 7, this displacement is quantized in two stages. That is, the symbol representing the minimum data unit “0” is arranged as it is at the reference position, and the symbol representing the minimum data unit “1” is arranged at a position deviated from the reference position in the positive X direction. The symbol representing “2” is arranged at a position that is larger in the positive direction of X than in the case of “1”. In this example, one symbol and its displacement from the reference position correspond to one element.
In the continuous code 80 of FIG. 7, all the data expressed by sections consisting of five elements that are continuous from different head positions are different.

  In the data string 84, delimiters “2” are regularly arranged across four numbers. Therefore, it can be said that the continuous code 80 of FIG. 7 is formed in accordance with a continuous code formation rule that a symbol arranged at a position most deviated from the reference position appears every four symbols. That is, the continuous code 80 is formed in accordance with the continuous code formation rule that there are symbols arranged at positions most deviated from the reference position, with five symbols or elements as a unit.

  In the example of FIG. 7, the data is expressed using the displacement from the reference position, but the data may be expressed using the distance between each symbol and the symbol before or after it. In FIG. 7, a dot symbol is used, but any symbol may be used. In addition to the data in the data string 84, other data may be expressed by using a plurality of symbols.

  As described above, a continuous code in which symbols are linearly arranged is also referred to as a “one-dimensional continuous code” in the present specification.

[2D dot matrix code]
A continuous matrix code can be created by extending the continuous code in two dimensions.
FIG. 8 shows a dot matrix code 110 obtained by extending a one-dimensional dot code into two dimensions as an example of a continuous matrix code. In the dot matrix code 110, a plurality of dot symbols are arranged in a lattice pattern, and each dot symbol is data using a quantized displacement from a lattice point which is a reference position where the symbol is arranged. Is arranged to be expressed.

  The X-direction data string 102 and the Y-direction data string 104 are parameter strings created by alternately arranging each term of a binary four-digit arithmetic sequence and a delimiter “2”. In these mother arrays, the partial sequence composed of five consecutive numbers from different head positions are all different.

  In FIG. 8, the dot symbols in each row are arranged so as to represent the X-direction data string 102 by using the displacement of each symbol in the X direction from a predetermined reference position in the same manner as in FIG. Since the minimum data unit “2” is used as a delimiter, the dot symbol array in each row has a symbol arranged at a position most offset in the X direction from the reference position every four symbols. It is formed according to the rules of continuous code formation. That is, in each row, five symbols or elements are formed as a unit, and are formed in accordance with a continuous code formation rule that there is a symbol periodically arranged at a position that is most deviated from the reference position in the X direction.

  In FIG. 8, the dot symbols in each row are arranged to represent the Y-direction data row 104 using the displacement of each symbol in the Y direction from a predetermined reference position by the same method as in FIG. Since the minimum data unit “2” is used as a delimiter, the dot symbol array of each column has symbols arranged at positions most offset in the Y direction from the reference position every four symbols. It is formed according to the rule of continuous code formation. That is, in each column, five symbols or elements are used as one unit, and the symbols are periodically formed according to the rule of continuous code formation that there is a symbol arranged at a position most offset in the Y direction from the reference position. .

  In other words, each row constituting the dot matrix code 110 is configured by alternately arranging a marker portion including four consecutive elements and an element indicating one boundary. it can. Similarly in the Y direction, each column constituting the dot matrix code 110 is configured by alternately arranging a label portion including four continuous elements and an element indicating one boundary.

  For example, in FIG. 8, when it is desired to specify the position of the target 106 indicated by ★, the section 108 including five elements continuous in the X direction with the symbol closest to the target 106 as the head is read and decoded. It can be seen that the X-direction position data represented by the symbol is “12001”. As described above, in the X-direction data sequence 102, the partial number sequences composed of five consecutive numbers from different head positions are all different, so that the position in the X direction can be specified. Similarly, by reading and decoding a section 112 including five symbols continuous in the Y direction with the symbol closest to the target 106 as the head, it can be seen that the X direction position data represented by the symbol is “00120”. . In the Y-direction data string 104, since the partial number sequences composed of five consecutive numbers from different head positions are all different, the position in the Y direction can be specified.

[2D difference matrix code]
FIG. 9 shows a continuous matrix code 120 in which patterns including a plurality of two-dimensional symbols are arranged in a lattice pattern as an example of the continuous matrix code according to the embodiment of the present invention. In the continuous matrix code 120 of FIG. 9, for the sake of explanation, the number which is each minimum data unit is shown as a symbol using a number as it is. That is, here, the element and the symbol correspond one-to-one, and the symbol represents the number of data as it is.

  The X-direction data string 102 and the Y-direction data string 104 shown in FIG. 9 are the same as the X-direction data string 102 and the Y-direction data string 104 shown in FIG.

  In the continuous matrix code 120 of FIG. 9, the symbol that is each element is determined by the difference between the number indicated by the element and the number indicated by the element in the same row among the elements in the previous column of the column in which the element is included. , The minimum data unit in the X direction is expressed. Similarly, each element symbol represents the minimum data unit in the Y direction by the difference between the number indicated by the element and the number indicated by the element in the same column in the row preceding the row in which the element is included. ing. In addition, although it is simply referred to as “difference” above, adjustment is performed using, for example, mod (modulo) so that the difference does not become a negative value.

  In FIG. 9, a case where the position of the target 106 indicated by * is desired to be specified will be described as an example. First, with respect to the X direction, a section 122 including five elements continuous in the X direction with the symbol closest to the target 106 as the head is read. In FIG. 9, it is “12111”.

  Of the elements in the section 122, when the element in the same row in the column before the first “1” is further read, it is “1”. Therefore, by calculating (1-1) mod 3, the first “1” is It can be calculated that the data to be represented is “0”. Among the elements “12111” in the section 122, the element in the same row in the column before the second “2” is the first “1”, and therefore the second is obtained by calculating (2-1) mod 3. It can be calculated that the data represented by “2” is “1”. Similarly, the data represented by the third “1” is “2” from (1-2) mod 3, the data represented by the fourth “1” is “0” by (1-1) mod 3, The data represented by the fifth “1” can be calculated by the code recognition device to be “0” by (1-1) mod3.

  In this way, the code recognition apparatus can specify “01200” as the partial sequence represented by the elements of the section 122. As described above, in the X-direction data sequence 102, the partial number sequences composed of five consecutive numbers from different head positions are all different, and therefore the X-direction position is specified by specifying the partial data sequence. be able to.

  Similarly, also in the Y direction, a section 124 including five elements continuous in the Y direction starting from the symbol closest to the target 106 is read. In FIG. 9, it is “11211”.

  Of the elements in the section 124, the element in the same column in the row before the first “1” is “1”. Therefore, by calculating (1-1) mod 3, the first “1” is It can be calculated that the data to be represented is “0”. Among the elements “11211” in the section 124, the element in the same column in the row before the second “1” is the first “1”, and therefore, by calculating (1-1) mod3, It can be calculated that the data represented by “1” of “0” is “0”. Similarly, the data represented by the third “2” is “1” by (2-1) mod 3, and the data represented by the fourth “1” is “2” by (1-2) mod 3. It can be calculated that the data represented by the fifth “1” is “0” by (1-1) mod 3. In this way, the code recognition apparatus can specify “00120” as the partial data string represented by the elements of the section 124.

As described above, in the Y-direction data string 104, the partial number sequences composed of five consecutive numbers from different head positions are all different. Therefore, by specifying the partial data string, the position in the Y direction is specified. be able to.
In the example of FIG. 9, an example of using a parameter sequence created by alternately arranging each term of the arithmetic sequence and the delimiter “2” as the X-direction data sequence 102 and the Y-direction data sequence 104 is used. Indicated. The parameter sequences used as the X-direction data sequence 102 and the Y-direction data sequence 104 are not limited to this, and any parameter sequence can be used as long as the partial sequences with predetermined lengths starting from different head positions are all different. Good. For example, a debullin number sequence may be used.

  In the continuous matrix code 120 of FIG. 9, an example is shown in which a parameter sequence created by alternately arranging each term of an arithmetic sequence and a delimiter “2” is used. By using such a parameter column, each row or each column of the continuous matrix code 120 is configured such that a marker portion formed by including a plurality of continuous elements and an element indicating a boundary are alternately arranged. May be. In this case, the code recognition device decodes the array of the elements so that each row or each column is alternately arranged with a label portion formed by including a plurality of continuous elements and an element indicating a boundary. It can be determined whether or not it is formed according to the rules.

In the example of FIG. 9, it is assumed that an element is defined such that data in the X direction is represented by a difference from the number indicated by the element corresponding to the element in the column preceding the column including the element. . However, the present invention is not limited to this, and an element may be determined such that data in the X direction is represented by a difference from the number indicated by the element corresponding to the element in the column next to the column including the element.
Similarly, in the example of FIG. 9, an element is defined such that data in the Y direction is represented by a difference from the number indicated by the element corresponding to the element in the row preceding the row in which the element is included. He said. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and an element may be determined such that data in the X direction is represented by a difference from the number indicated by the element corresponding to the element in the next row of the row including the element.

In the continuous matrix code 120 of FIG. 9, the number which is each minimum data unit is shown as a symbol using a number as it is. In addition, the continuous matrix code 120 can be created by expressing the minimum data unit as shown in FIG. 9 as a pattern by various methods.
For example, the element may be expressed by being replaced with a symbol representing each number.
The element may be defined such that data is expressed in an array of colored cells or a color transition between adjacent cells in the array.
The element is not limited to an optically recognizable symbol, and may be expressed using a magnetically recognizable symbol, and may be expressed in various other ways.

  By expressing the data using the difference between the elements located before and after as in the continuous matrix code 120 in FIG. 9, the XY data string can be expressed using only a certain range of numbers. That is, the number of numbers used can be limited to the number of numbers used in the data string.

[Modification of continuous matrix code]
In the dot matrix code 110 in FIG. 8 and the continuous matrix code 120 in FIG. 9, all the position information in the X direction represented by each row is the same, and all the position information in the Y direction represented by each column is the same. Therefore, in the above example, a section including five symbols consecutive in the X direction starting from the symbol closest to the target 106 is read. However, in the X direction starting from an arbitrary symbol of the column to which the closest symbol belongs. The same result can be obtained by reading a section containing five consecutive symbols. The same applies to the Y direction. Thereby, for example, even when the target 106 covers and hides the symbol, the position of the target 106 can be specified.

Further, in the dot matrix code 110 in FIG. 8 and the continuous matrix code 120 in FIG. 9, an example in which a pattern is created using the same data string for the X direction and the Y direction has been shown. Different data strings may be used. For example, in the X direction, a data string in which each term of the arithmetic sequence and the delimiter code are alternately arranged may be used, and in the Y direction, the debris number sequence may be used as the data string.
As a result, the pattern is expressed in accordance with the different rules for forming a continuous code in the X direction and the Y direction, so that the code recognition device can easily distinguish the X direction and the Y direction.

  In the present specification, unless otherwise specified, the “continuous code” refers to both a one-dimensional continuous code and a continuous matrix code.

[Cutout algorithm]
As described above, it is assumed that the continuous code is longer or wider than the range that the code recognizer can capture in a single scan. Since the start point and end point are not included, and the number of symbols included in the screen is indefinite, it is difficult to specify the size of one symbol. Even in such a case, by configuring the continuous code according to the cut-out determination condition of the algorithm for cutting out the continuous code, the code recognition device can easily convert the continuous code into a partial background image other than the continuous code. It can be detected and extracted separately.

  As a cut-out determination condition of an algorithm for cutting out a continuous code, for example, for a code including an array of colored cells, as disclosed in Patent Document 3 in which the present invention is the same as the inventor and the applicant, It is good also as a condition that the circumference | surroundings of the circumference | surroundings of a cell are completed by white-other color-white-other color. Here, the “other color” refers to a color used for a color cell other than the color assigned to the one cell when a color used for the color cell is determined in advance. In addition, the term “white” here represents a color other than the color used for the coloring cell as white, which is the representative color.

  Further, in a code including an array of colored cells, each cell may be a so-called stepping stone, and each cell may not be in contact. In that case, the above-described extraction determination condition may be applied by expanding the area of each cell.

[Quyat Zone]
You may provide the area | region which attached | subjected the color selected from colors other than the color used for symbols, such as a coloring cell and a mark, so that a continuous code may be surrounded. Hereinafter, this area is referred to as a quiet zone, and one color assigned to the quiet zone is referred to as a space color.
In the quiet zone, for example, a region covered when each cell is enlarged at a certain ratio while the center of gravity of each cell constituting the continuous code is kept at a certain position may be set as the outer edge.
By providing the quiet zone, the code recognition apparatus can recognize the boundary portion between the background image and the continuous code, and therefore, it is possible to cut out the continuous code by distinguishing it from the background image with a simpler procedure.

  When a quiet zone is attached around a continuous code, for example, the conditions disclosed in Patent Document 3 in which the present invention and the inventor and the applicant are the same are used as the cut-out determination conditions of the algorithm for cutting out the continuous code. May be. That is, in a code including an array of chromatic cells, it may be a condition that the circumference of one cell is completed with space color-other color-space color-other color. Here, the “other color” refers to a color used for a color cell other than the color assigned to the one cell when a color used for the color cell is determined in advance.

[Detection mark]
As the cut-out determination condition described above, the code recognition device may be provided with a detection mark for detecting and extracting the continuous code separately from the background image that is a part other than the continuous code.

  10A to 10C show examples of one-dimensional continuous codes with detection marks. 10A and 10C, one binary binary-in number sequence is used as the data sequence 84. In this debull-in number sequence, partial number sequences composed of consecutive four-digit numbers starting from different head positions are all different from each other.

  FIG. 10A is an example in which the detection mark 130a is attached to one side of the continuous code 80 represented by the arrangement of three types of symbols, symbol ●, upward triangle symbol, and downward triangle symbol, and 130b is attached to the opposite side. . In this continuous code 80, the downward triangle symbol and the upward triangle symbol indicate “0” and “1”, which are the minimum data units, respectively. Each of the downward triangle symbol and the upward triangle symbol is also an element representing one minimum data unit. The symbol ● is a check symbol, and the continuous code 80 is configured according to a rule that every other check symbol is arranged. The detection mark 130a includes two straight lines, and the detection mark 130b includes a single straight line.

  As described above, the code recognition device can specify the reading direction by attaching a detection mark that is asymmetric in the vertical direction in the one-dimensional continuous code. In addition, even if the continuous code 80 includes symbols such as an upward triangle symbol and a downward triangle symbol that do not have a fixed vertical direction, the minimum data unit to be represented is not uniquely determined. Can be recognized.

  FIG. 10B shows another detection mark 132, and FIG. 10C shows an example of a continuous code 80 with this detection mark 132. The detection mark 132 is configured as a series of grids of the same size. In the continuous code 80 in FIG. 10C, vertical lines having different thicknesses are used as symbols, and a thin line represents 0 and a thick line represents 1. The continuous code 80 is configured to include the detection mark 132, and the code recognition device can identify and cut out the continuous code 80 using the detection mark 13.

  FIG. 11 shows an example in which detection marks 134 represented by straight lines are added to the continuous matrix code 120 shown in FIG. In this example, one detection mark 134 is attached every n rows. That is, a group of symbols divided every n rows is formed so as to include the detection marks 134 for enabling the continuous matrix code 120 to be specified. It can be said that the group of elements divided every n rows includes the detection marks 134 respectively. FIG. 11 shows an example in which n is 2 and one detection mark 134 is added every two rows. However, n is a natural number.

  FIG. 12 shows an example in which each dot symbol is represented by an upward triangle symbol that is the detection mark 136 in the dot matrix code 110 shown in FIG. The X-direction data string 102 and the Y-direction data string 104 are the same as the X-direction data string 102 and the Y-direction data string 104 described with reference to FIG. In this example, each of the symbols is also used as a detection mark 136 for enabling the dot matrix code 110 to be specified.

  In addition, for example, the dot matrix code 110 may be configured to further include a detection mark 136 that indicates the reference position of the dot. As a result, the code recognition device can directly recognize the reference position of the dot.

  In this way, by adding a detection mark or including a detection mark in a group of elements and symbols, it is possible to more easily distinguish and detect a continuous code from a background image and extract it. Also, by attaching detection marks, the code recognition device can more reliably recognize the size of one symbol of a continuous code, and individual symbols can be cut out. In addition, in a continuous matrix code, the code recognition device can be arranged in the XY direction by adding a detection mark that is asymmetric in the XY direction, or by including a detection mark that is asymmetric in the XY direction in a symbol, element, or group thereof. Can be specified.

[Section recognition processing]
FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure in which the code recognition apparatus 100 in FIG. 1 detects a continuous code according to the embodiment and recognizes each section separately. Hereinafter, description will be given with reference to FIG. In the following description of the section recognition process, it is assumed that a continuous code to be recognized is composed of an array of colored cells, and one colored cell corresponds to one symbol. In the case of code, section recognition processing can be performed by the same procedure.

  First, the input unit 14 of the reading unit 12 images a scene including the continuous code 80 (S10). The quantizing unit 16 performs preprocessing such as N-ary image processing or region segmentation on the image data, and sends the processed image data to the position code extracting unit 24. The position code extraction condition determination unit 26 of the position code extraction unit 24 is a continuous code such as the presence / absence of a predetermined detection mark and a predetermined continuous code formation rule for an area that may be a continuous code in the image data. It is determined whether or not a cutting condition is satisfied. If it is determined that the extraction conditions are met, the position code extraction processing unit 28 recognizes the corresponding portion of the image data as a position code and extracts it (S12), and sends it to the section data acquisition unit 30.

  The cell recognition unit 32 of the section data acquisition unit 30 recognizes, as a symbol, a portion that complies with a symbol determination condition for recognizing a predetermined symbol from the cut pattern, and identifies the type of each symbol (S14). ). Here, patterns that deviate from the symbol determination conditions are excluded.

  The element recognizing unit 34 recognizes a symbol or a symbol arrangement according to a predetermined element configuration rule as an element from the recognized symbol group, and identifies each element (S16). The element configuration rule is a rule that defines the number of symbols constituting an element, combinations thereof, and the like. In this step, symbols that deviate from the element configuration rule among the symbols recognized by the cell recognition unit 32 are excluded.

  The element decoding unit 36 of the section data acquisition unit 30 decodes each recognized element into a minimum data unit based on a rule that associates the element with the minimum data unit (S18).

  The section selection unit 38 of the section data acquisition unit 30 selects any of the section data composed of an array of minimum data units (S20). Specifically, the section selection unit 38 designates one minimum data unit from the array of minimum data units, and is associated with the designated minimum data unit according to the rule for associating the minimum data unit with the section data. Select section data.

  When specifying one minimum data unit, for example, in the array of minimum data units obtained by decoding recognized elements in one captured image, the nth minimum data unit from the beginning may be specified. It is also possible to designate a minimum data unit at a position corresponding to k percent from the top of the array of minimum data units. Here, n is a natural number, and k is a number from 0 to 100.

  The rule for associating the minimum data unit with the section data is a rule for associating any one section data among the section data to which the minimum data unit belongs with respect to a certain minimum data unit. For example, section data in which the minimum data unit is located at the head may be associated with a certain minimum data unit, or section data in which the minimum data unit is located in the center may be associated.

  The section selection unit 38 may select one section data by designating a plurality of minimum data units instead of designating one minimum data unit. In this case, the rule for associating the minimum data unit with the section data associates a plurality of minimum data units with one section data. For example, a plurality of specified minimum data units may be associated with section data including all of the plurality of minimum data units, and a plurality of specified minimum data units and a plurality of the minimum data units are selected. Section data including many minimum data units may be associated.

  In this way, by selecting section data after decoding each element into numerical data, the amount of data to be handled can be reduced, and processing can be performed more efficiently and quickly.

  In the flowchart of FIG. 13, step 18 and step 20 can be interchanged. In other words, after the section selection unit 38 selects a section, the element decoding unit 36 may acquire the section data by decoding each element belonging to the selected section.

  In this case, the section selection unit 38 specifies one element from the recognized element group, and selects one section associated with the designated element according to a rule for associating the element with the section.

When designating an element, an element captured at that position may be designated by designating a position in the imaging screen. For example, an element occupying an area including the position may be specified by specifying a position in the image in units of pixels or specifying a position corresponding to k percent from the edge of the screen. Here, k is a number from 0 to 100.
In addition, an element may be specified according to a relationship with an object other than a continuous code on the imaging screen. For example, the element having the shortest distance from the target identification code included in the imaging screen may be designated.

  The rule for associating an element with a section is a rule for associating a certain element with any one of the sections to which the element belongs. For example, a section in which the element is located at the head or a section in which the element is located at the center are associated with a certain element.

  The section selection unit 38 may specify a plurality of elements instead of specifying one element. In this case, the rule for associating elements with sections associates one section with a plurality of elements. For example, a plurality of designated elements may be associated with a section including all of the plurality of elements, and a plurality of designated elements may be associated with a section including more elements among the plurality of elements. May be.

  In this way, by specifying a section at the stage of image data before conversion to numerical data, the section from which data should be read in consideration of the position on the screen and the relationship with objects other than position codes. Can be specified.

The section acquisition unit 30 also compares one section data with other section data and verifies that they comply with the rules for forming a continuous code. You may check whether there is.
The recognition conditions and exclusion conditions used in the cell recognition process, element recognition process, element decoding process, and section selection process are based on the position in the screen, the positional relationship with other symbols, etc., as will be described later. It may be changed as appropriate and applied.
Information on the section selected by the above procedure is transmitted to the position information acquisition unit 50.

[Cut out a certain number of consecutive symbols]
As a cut-out determination condition of an algorithm for cutting out a continuous code, the minimum continuous number of symbols or elements in one detection window may be set as a threshold value. Thereby, noise having no meaningful information such as an image similar to a continuous code in the background image can be eliminated.

The minimum consecutive number may be, for example, the number of symbols or elements included in one section.
In consideration of the fact that continuous codes are often applied over a wider range than the screen, the minimum continuous number is determined from the detection window of the code recognition apparatus 100 and the balance of the sizes of symbols constituting the continuous code. May be. In this case, the minimum continuous number may be set in advance based on experience and experiment, assuming the usage situation. Also, if the distance between the camera and the continuous code is different each time the image is taken, the code recognition device may set the minimum number of consecutive values using the average size of the symbols detected on the screen each time the image is taken. Good. In the latter case, for example, the code recognition device calculates the average size of the symbols detected in the screen, and determines the number of symbols that the average size occupies the length of the short side of one scan screen as the minimum continuous number. May be set as

  In this way, by making a symbol or element continuous for a certain number or more as a cut-out determination condition, the position code extraction unit 24 of the code recognition device 100 can perform a confusing image in a background image other than a continuous code, a continuous code, Can be detected and extracted separately.

[Corresponding to image distortion and blur]
As described above, the cell recognition unit 32 of the section data acquisition unit 30 of the code recognition device 100 determines whether or not each symbol constitutes a part of the continuous code based on the cut-out determination condition of the algorithm for cutting out the continuous code. To determine. However, at the edge of the detection window of the code recognition device 100, even if the symbol is actually a part of the continuous code, it is determined that it is not a symbol constituting the continuous code due to image distortion or the like. There is a possibility. Also, since there is no focus, for example, when the image is converted to N-value, the size of each symbol varies, and even if it is a symbol that is actually a part of the continuous code, a continuous code is formed. There is a possibility that it is determined that it is not a symbol to be used.

  For this reason, even if a symbol that has not been determined to be part of a continuous code by the position code extraction condition determination unit 26 or the cell recognition unit 32 of the code recognition device 100 is determined to be a symbol that has been determined to belong to a continuous code. When the positional relationship satisfies a predetermined condition, that is, when a continuous condition is satisfied, it may be determined that it is determined to be a part of a continuous code. Specifically, for a symbol that has not been determined to be part of a continuous code, if there is a symbol that has been determined to belong to a continuous code in the vicinity in the screen, the position code extraction condition determination unit 26 or cell recognition The unit 32 determines that the symbol is a part of the continuous code.

  Here, whether or not it is “near” may be determined on the condition that, for example, the distance between symbols is equal to or less than a reference distance that can be considered to be continuous with each other. For example, when taking the distance between the centers of symbols, the reference distance may be 1.5 times the average size of symbols. In addition to this, the reference distance may be determined by experiment or experience.

  As a result, even if a symbol that is actually a part of a continuous code is determined not to constitute a continuous code based on the cut-out determination condition of the algorithm for cutting out the continuous code, If it is considered that the information is part of the continuous code, the information can be acquired.

[Cut out area limited on screen]
As described above, the code recognition device determines whether or not each symbol constitutes a part of the continuous code based on the cut-out determination condition of the algorithm for cutting out the continuous code. At this time, depending on the purpose of use of the continuous code, it may be sufficient to consider only a predetermined range of the detection window of the input unit 14 of the code recognition device 100. For example, in the case of the booklet of FIG. 24, the continuous code usually appears at the bottom of the screen. Therefore, the lower half of the screen may be set as the predetermined range.

  In general, there are cases where the position of the continuous code in the screen can be assumed according to the presence form of the target and the posture in which the target is placed. If the target is vertically long or multiple targets are arranged in the horizontal direction, there may be a horizontal continuous code above or below the target. do it. If the target is horizontally long or a plurality of targets are arranged in the vertical direction, a continuous code can be attached to the right or left of the target in the vertical direction. It may be in the range. In this way, an area including the in-screen position of a continuous code that can be assumed according to the presence form of the target and the posture where the target is placed may be set as a target area for continuous code detection.

  In such a case, the code recognizing device may treat only symbols detected within a predetermined range of the detection window as continuous codes. Therefore, the position code cutout processing unit 28 of the code recognition apparatus 100 determines whether or not the cutout determination condition and the continuous condition are met only for the symbols detected within the predetermined range of the detection window.

  As a result, it is possible to reduce the processing for searching whether or not there is a continuous code up to an unnecessary portion, and the processing speed can be increased. Further, resources such as a CPU and a memory can be used effectively.

[Cycle identification mark]
The one-dimensional continuous code described above is limited to a length determined by, for example, the length of the Debullin number sequence or the number of terms in the arithmetic sequence, but the length of the continuous code is desired by connecting a plurality of one-dimensional continuous codes. The length can be extended.
Similarly, the above-mentioned continuous matrix code is also limited to a range determined by, for example, the length of the Debullin number sequence or the number of terms in the arithmetic sequence, etc. Can be expanded to range.

As described above, in a continuous code, all the sections consisting of a predetermined number of elements that are consecutive from different head positions are all different. In some cases, the data represented by one section and one section in another cycle are the same. In such a case, the code recognition device cannot uniquely identify one section.
Below, the cycle identification label | marker for identifying each cycle of repetition when using the same continuous code connected in multiple numbers is demonstrated.

  FIGS. 14A and 14B show examples of the continuous code 80 in which the data string 84 using the parameter string 140 repeatedly is expressed as a pattern based on the arrangement of symbols. Here, the parameter sequence 140 is a sequence “2002011210211” created by alternately arranging the terms 00, 01, 10, 11 of the binary sequence of binary digits and the delimiter “2”. In the parameter sequence 140, the partial sequence consisting of three consecutive numbers from different head positions are all different.

14 (a) and 14 (b) show a part of a longer data string 84 created by repeatedly using this parameter string 140. FIG.
In the continuous code 80 shown in FIGS. 14 (a) and 14 (b), the minimum data unit “0”, “1”, “2” is represented by symbols “◯”, “♦”, and “☆”, respectively. It expresses as

  The continuous code 80 in FIG. 14A is provided with a cycle identification mark configured so that each cycle can be identified by the number of line segments in the image. In the example of FIG. 14A, cycle identification signs 142a, 142b, 142c, 142d are attached to the upper side of the detection marks shown in FIG. 10 in association with the symbols belonging to the respective cycles. In FIG. 14A, since the symbols and elements match, it can be said that the cycle identification signs 142a, 142b, 142c, 142d are associated with the elements belonging to the respective cycles.

FIG. 14B is an example of a continuous code 80 with other cycle identification indicators 144a, 144b, 144c, and 144d for identifying each cycle as a repetition unit. The cycle identification indicators 144a to 144d are expressed by assigning regions colored in different colors in each cycle so as to surround the symbols in association with the symbols belonging to the respective cycles of the continuous code 80. Yes.
In FIG. 14B, since the symbols and the elements coincide, it can be said that the cycle identification signs 142a, 142b, 142c, and 142d are associated with the elements belonging to the respective cycles.

  14A and 14B also serves as a detection mark for cutting out the continuous code 80. FIG. Thus, by expressing the detection mark and the cycle identification sign as one mark, the reading procedure by the code recognition device can be simplified and the space can be used effectively.

FIG. 15 shows an example of a continuous matrix code 120 expressed by a method similar to the method described with reference to FIG. 9 using a long data sequence using a repetitive parameter sequence in the X direction and the Y direction. Here, the X-direction parameter sequence 146 and the Y-direction parameter sequence 148 are created by alternately arranging the terms 00, 01, 10, 11 of the binary sequence of binary digits and the delimiter “2”. The numerical sequence “00201210211” is obtained. In this number sequence, partial number sequences composed of three consecutive numbers from different head positions are all different.
FIG. 15 shows a part of longer X-direction data string 102 and Y-direction data string 104 created by repeatedly using this X-direction parameter string 146 and Y-direction parameter string 148.

In the continuous matrix code 120 of FIG. 15, as described in connection with FIG. 9, each element is determined by the difference between the number indicated by the element and the number indicated by the element in the same row in the previous column. The minimum data unit in the X direction is expressed. Similarly, each element represents the minimum data unit in the Y direction by the difference between the number indicated by the element and the number indicated by the element in the same row in the previous column. In addition, although it is simply referred to as “difference” above, adjustment is performed using, for example, mod or the like so that the difference does not become a negative value.
In the continuous matrix code 120 of FIG. 15, the number which is each minimum data unit is shown as a symbol using a number as it is.

  In the continuous matrix code 120 of FIG. 15, the background of the symbols belonging to each group is colored with a different color as a group identification sign for identifying each group as a repeating unit.

In general, the length of a parameter sequence in which partial sequences of predetermined lengths from different head positions are all different is limited by the number base used and the length of the partial sequence. When creating a longer parameter sequence, it is necessary to increase the base of the number used or to increase the length of the partial sequence.
By connecting multiple continuous codes and attaching a cycle identification indicator or group identification indicator, the length of the continuous code or its range can be expanded to the desired size without changing the base of the number used or the length of the partial sequence. be able to.

[Cycle identification pattern]
FIG. 16 is an example of a continuous code 80 that represents the same number using different elements in each cycle in order to identify each cycle as a unit of repetition. In this continuous code 80, three original continuous codes are concatenated to create a longer continuous code, but elements having different color arrangements in each cycle are used to represent the same number. Yes.
The continuous codes 80a, 80b, and 80c indicate parts of the first cycle, the second cycle, and the third cycle of the continuous code 80, respectively.

In the continuous code 80 in FIG. 16, data obtained by concatenating three Deburin number sequences “00001001101011111” is used as the data sequence 84. In FIG. 16, only the first part of the debris-in number sequence in each cycle is shown as a data sequence 84.
In this continuous code 80, data is represented by an array of colors of cells colored in red, green, or blue as symbols, and five cells constitute one element. In the following description, red, green, and blue cells are denoted by R, G, and B, respectively, for the description of the arrangement.

  In the first cycle, an element in which cells are arranged in the order of RBGBG indicates a minimum data unit “0”, and an element in which cells are arranged in the order of RGBGB indicates a minimum data unit “1”. In the first cycle, the continuous code 80 is formed in accordance with a continuous code formation rule that red cells are periodically arranged across four cells.

  In the second cycle, an element in which cells are arranged in the order of GRBRB indicates a minimum data unit “0”, and an element in which cells are arranged in the order of GBRBR indicates a minimum data unit “1”. In the second cycle, the continuous code 80 is formed in accordance with a continuous code formation rule that green cells are periodically arranged across four cells.

  In the third cycle, an element in which cells are arranged in the order of BGRGR indicates a minimum data unit “0”, and an element in which cells are arranged in the order of BRGRG indicates a minimum data unit “1”. In the third cycle, the continuous code 80 is formed in accordance with a continuous code formation rule that blue cells are periodically arranged across four cells.

In the continuous code 80 of FIG. 16, the elements used to express each data unit are determined so as to be different depending on each cycle which is a unit of repetition of the continuous code. As described above, the code recognition apparatus can identify each cycle by changing the arrangement of symbols representing the numbers in each cycle.
It will be understood by those skilled in the art that a pattern can be formed so that elements are different depending on each group, which is a repeating unit of a continuous code, in a two-dimensional continuous matrix code by a similar method.

  In this way, by concatenating multiple continuous codes and changing the elements to represent the same data for each cycle or group, which is the unit of repetition of continuous codes, the number base used for continuous codes and the length of partial sequences Without changing the length, the length of the continuous code, or the range thereof, can be expanded to a desired size.

[Cycle identification procedure]
FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure in which the code recognition apparatus 100 in FIG. 1 calculates the position of a section based on the extracted continuous code section and the cycle identification display. The processing for calculating the position of this section is executed by the position information acquisition unit 50 in response to the result of the section recognition processing shown in the flowchart of FIG. Hereinafter, description will be given with reference to FIG.

  The position information acquisition unit 50 acquires information about the section from the section data acquisition unit 30 (S30). The position information specifying unit 52 of the position information acquiring unit 50 specifies the position in the cycle for the acquired section (S32). For example, if the data represented by a section is part of a Debullin number sequence, the position is identified by referring to a table prepared in advance, and the data represented by the section is a parameter sequence that combines the terms of a geometric sequence and a delimiter If it is a part, the position is specified by calculation.

  The cycle information specifying unit 54 acquires section cycle information from the position code extracting unit 24 or the section data acquiring unit 30 (S34). Then, the position of the cycle is specified by referring to a table prepared in advance (S36).

  The coordinate calculation unit 56 calculates the position of the section based on the acquired information regarding the position of the section and the cycle position to which the section belongs (S38). The position of the section may be calculated as a position on a predetermined coordinate, for example.

[Circular code]
FIG. 18 shows an example of an annular continuous code 150 in which one-dimensional continuous codes are arranged in an annular shape. The annular continuous code 150 is created by arranging the first symbol and the last symbol of the continuous code 80 adjacent to each other. In the example of FIG. 18, as the data sequence 84, a data sequence in which a number sequence “0000100110101111”, which is one of the binary number debull-in numbers, is arranged in a ring shape is used. In this numerical sequence, consecutive four-digit numbers starting from different head positions are all different from each other.
In the annular continuous code 150, the data string 84 is patterned using three types of symbols: symbol ●, upward triangle symbol, and downward triangle symbol. An element having a downward triangle symbol represents a minimum data unit “0”, and an element having an upward triangle symbol represents a minimum data unit “1”. The symbol ● is a check symbol.

In this manner, by arranging the ring in a ring shape, the rotation angle and phase of a disk-like or donut-like object such as a tire or gear can be detected using the ring-shaped continuous cord 150.
Note that the shape of the annular continuous cord 150 is not limited to a circle, and the top and bottom symbols may be arranged adjacent to each other as a topology. With this arrangement, even when the code is read while circling the same course many times, information is recorded at each position without causing a discontinuous portion of the code, that is, a blank portion of information. It becomes possible.

  FIG. 19 shows an example of a circular matrix code 160 in which continuous matrix codes are circularly arranged. The annular matrix code 160 is created by arranging the first column and the last column of the continuous matrix code so as to be adjacent to each other.

  In the circular matrix code 160 of FIG. 19, the symbols ◯, ◆, and ☆ represent the minimum data units “0”, “1”, and “2”, respectively. As the original data, the terms “00”, “01”, “10”, “11”, and the delimiter “2” are used as a binary sequence of binary digits in both the X and Y directions. A numerical sequence “00201210211” created by arranging them alternately is used. In this parameter sequence, the partial sequence consisting of three consecutive numbers from different head positions are all different. Similarly to the method described with reference to FIG. 9, the minimum data units in the X and Y directions are expressed by the difference from the number of previous rows and the difference from the previous columns. Note that adjustment is made using, for example, mod calculation so that the difference does not become a negative value.

FIG. 20 shows another example of an annular matrix code 160 in which continuous matrix codes are arranged in an annular shape. The same original data and symbols as those in FIG. 19 are used. In FIG. 20, the annular matrix cord 160 is disposed inside the cylindrical shape.
The shape of the annular continuous cord 150 is not limited to the cylindrical shape shown in FIGS. 19 and 20, and may be a cylindrical topology as long as the top and end columns or rows are adjacent to each other.
Thus, by arranging the continuous matrix code in a ring shape, for example, it is possible to detect both the rotation angle and phase of a rotating body having a width and the position in the rotation axis direction. Moreover, the position on the surface where the start end and the end do not exist, such as the belt of the belt conveyor, can be specified by the automatic recognition technique.

[embedded]
An information code for recording data different from the data represented by the continuous code 80 can be embedded in the area where the continuous code 80 is disposed.

  FIG. 21A shows an example of a data string 84 before being converted into a pattern when an information code for recording other data is embedded in a one-dimensional continuous code. This data sequence 84 is composed of a parameter sequence “0002001201021121...” (Hereinafter referred to as “position data”) created by combining an binary sequence of 3 digits and a tolerance of 1 and a delimiter, and another data (hereinafter referred to as “position data”). This is an example of embedding embedded data). In the position data of FIG. 21A, the numeral “2” is used as a delimiter 94, and in the figure, the delimiter 94 is enclosed by a solid rectangle. The embedded data is shown surrounded by a dotted line. In this data row 84, the minimum data unit of position data and the minimum data unit of embedded data are alternately arranged. The data string 84 in FIG. 21A is formed according to the rule that the delimiters 94 are arranged every several number 7.

  The code recognition device 100 can use the delimiter 94 to distinguish and extract position data and embedded data based on a predetermined embedded data arrangement rule.

FIG. 21B shows another example of the data string 84 before pattern conversion when an information code for recording other data is embedded in the one-dimensional continuous code.
This data sequence 84 is an example in which another data (hereinafter referred to as embedded data) is embedded in one of the debullin number sequences “0000100110101111” (hereinafter referred to as position data). The minimum data unit of the embedded data is shown surrounded by a dotted line. The minimum data unit of position data and the minimum data unit of embedded data are alternately arranged. The position data is expressed using the formulas 0 and 1, and the embedded data is expressed using the formulas 2 and 3.

As shown in FIG. 21B, the code recognition device 100 is provided with a rule for the arrangement of the position data and the embedded data, such as representing the position data and the embedded data using different numbers even when there is no delimiter. However, position data and embedded data can be extracted separately.
The continuous code 80 can be formed by patterning the data string 84 shown in FIGS. 21A and 21B by using the above-described or other various methods.

FIG. 22 shows an example of a continuous matrix code 170 in which an information code for recording data different from data represented by the continuous code (referred to as position data) is embedded.
As the X-direction data string 102 of the position data, one “000010001100101001. As the Y-direction data string 104 of the position data, a parameter string in which an equality number string having a binary number of 4 and a tolerance of 1 and a delimiter code “2” are alternately arranged is used. Similarly to the method described with reference to FIG. 9, the minimum data unit in the X and Y directions is expressed by the difference from the number of the previous row and the difference from the previous column. Note that adjustment is performed using, for example, a mod (modulo) operation so that the difference does not become a negative value.

  In the continuous matrix code 170 of FIG. 22, the position data is expressed using the formulas 0, 1 and 2, and the embedded data is expressed using the formulas 3 and 4. In order to make the figure easier to see, the embedded data is shown surrounded by a gray circle.

  FIG. 23 shows an example of the continuous matrix code 120 in which the continuous matrix code 170 of FIG. 22 is read and patterned using line segments. “0” is a right-down diagonal line, “1” is a left-down diagonal line, “2” is two intersecting diagonal lines, “3” is a vertical parallel line segment, and “4” is a horizontal parallel line segment. Each is expressed.

  Thus, by embedding an information code for recording other data in the continuous code, for example, in addition to the position information, another data can be recorded in association with the position.

[Target location]
For example, the continuous code may be disposed in the vicinity of a plurality of articles (hereinafter also referred to as target objects), and may be used to specify their positions. In this case, the code recognition device 100 simultaneously recognizes the target identification code attached to each of the plurality of articles and the continuous code, recognizes each code in association with the position on the detection screen, and recognizes each of the plurality of articles. , Identify its location.

  FIG. 24 shows an example of an image input to the input unit 14 of the code recognition device 100. This image is an image of a state in which booklets each having a target identification code 180 attached to the back cover are arranged on a shelf, and a continuous code 80 is attached to the shelf below the booklet. Here, the target object whose position is to be specified is a booklet.

  At this time, the continuous code 80 is preferably arranged so that the distance from the plurality of target identification codes is shorter than a predetermined reference distance. As a result, the plurality of target identification codes and the continuous code 80 fit into the detection window of the code recognition apparatus 100 without difficulty.

  The distance between the plurality of target identification codes and the continuous code 80 may be the length of a perpendicular line from the center of gravity of each target identification code to the continuous code 80, and from the end of each target identification code on the side close to the continuous code 80. It may be the length of the perpendicular line drawn on the continuous cord 80. Then, the continuous cord 80 is arranged so that the average length, the maximum value, the minimum value, and the intermediate value of these perpendiculars are shorter than a predetermined reference distance.

  The predetermined reference distance is determined so that the plurality of target identification codes and the continuous code 80 can be accommodated simultaneously in the detection window of the code recognition apparatus 100 without difficulty. For example, the reference distance may be determined so that the sum of the predetermined reference distance and the target identification code length is half of one side of the detection window. In addition to this, the predetermined reference distance may be appropriately determined according to the use situation through experiments or experience.

  In this way, by disposing the continuous code so that the distance to the plurality of target identification codes is shorter than a predetermined reference distance, the code recognition apparatus 100 can perform target identification in one imaging or one reading operation. Both the code and the continuous code can be detected simultaneously, and the target position can be specified using the continuous code.

  Moreover, it is preferable that a continuous code is arrange | positioned according to a predetermined rule with respect to the direction where a some booklet is arranged. The predetermined rule is determined so that the positions of the plurality of target identification codes 180 can be distinguished from each other on the continuous code 80 when the positions of the plurality of booklets are specified using the continuous code 80. For example, the direction in which the plurality of targets are arranged and the continuous code may be set to be parallel. In this case, it is good also as arrange | positioning so that the line segment calculated | required by the fitting by the least squares method and the continuous code may be parallel about each gravity center of the several target identification code 180. FIG. The predetermined rule may define an allowable angle indicating how far a deviation from parallelism is allowed. The allowable angle may be set to 45 degrees, for example, and may be determined as appropriate according to the use situation based on experiments or experience.

  As a result, when the positions of the plurality of target objects are specified using the continuous code 80, the positions of the plurality of target objects are identified without overlapping the positions of the many target objects on the continuous code 80. Can be recognized.

Moreover, it is preferable that the continuous code is expressed in a format that can be read using a technique similar to the technique for reading the target identification code. For example, if the target identification code is magnetically readable, the continuous code is also expressed in a magnetically readable form. If the target identification code is optically readable, the continuous code is also optically readable. Express with
Thereby, without complicating the configuration of the code recognition device 100, both the target identification code and the continuous code are detected simultaneously by the single code recognition device 100, and the target position is specified using the continuous code. Can do.

  The plurality of target objects may be accommodated in an article storage area including an area in which a plurality of articles can be stored, such as a shelf, a stand, a box, a rack, and a part of a floor. In this case, the continuous cord is attached in juxtaposition to the region that accommodates the article. Thereby, the position of a plurality of target objects can be specified using a continuous code. In addition, by appropriately adjusting the shape of the article storage area and the position to which the continuous code is attached, the positional relationship between the target object and the continuous code can be kept within a predetermined reference range, and the position of the target object is effectively identified. be able to.

  The continuous code may be attached to an area in which a part of the continuous code cannot be detected from the outside by the article when the article is accommodated in the article storage area. In this case, the code recognizing device 100 recognizes the detectable continuous code and identifies the change in the accommodation state of the article by comparing it with the distribution of the detectable continuous code in the initial state measured in advance. Also good. For example, in the initial state, when a continuous code of a specific part can be detected at a certain time even though a continuous code cannot be detected at all because a large number of articles are contained, It may be determined that the stored article is no longer present and output to a display screen or the like. Thereby, the presence or absence of a plurality of target objects can be determined using a continuous code.

[Specify precise location in symbols]
When selecting a section by specifying an element, in the above example, a section starting from the element closest to the target object or a section where the element closest to the target object is located at the center of the selected section is selected. Select and read.
It is also possible to select an appropriate section each time without fixing the section to be selected as in these examples.

  In this case, in the code recognition apparatus 100, first, a predefined point on the target identification code used for identifying the target object is associated with one of symbols or elements constituting the continuous code. Then, the section selection unit 38 of the section data acquisition unit 30 selects an appropriate section among the sections including the associated symbol or element. In selecting an appropriate section, for example, a section having a good reading state may be selected. As a section having a good reading state, for example, a section having the least influence such as missing or distorted images may be selected.

  Basically, it is set to select a section consisting of a predetermined number of consecutive elements starting with the element closest to the target object, and the associated symbol or element when the reading status of that section is not good A section having a good reading state may be selected from the sections including.

  The section data acquisition unit 30 provides the position information acquisition unit 50 with information about the symbol closest to the target object among the symbols belonging to the section together with the section data indicated by the selected section. Thereby, a finer position of the target object can be specified.

[Code size]
In the continuous code, the length of one section is determined so as to be narrower than a detection window that is a range in which the code recognition device can detect by one reading operation. In other words, the number N1 of symbols included in the array of symbols read in the detection window, and the minimum number of symbols included in the array of symbols that can be interpreted by the code recognition device. The number N2 is configured to satisfy the relationship N1> N2. In the case of a continuous matrix code, both the range occupied by one section in the X direction and the range occupied by one section in the Y direction are narrower than the range that the code recognition device can detect in one reading operation. The range occupied by one section in the X direction and the range occupied by one section in the Y direction are defined.

The size of one section that satisfies this relationship is determined based on the distance between the code recognition device and the continuous code in a typical use situation, the resolution of the code recognition device, and the like. It may be determined by experiment, assuming a typical use situation.
As a result, the code recognition apparatus can efficiently recognize a plurality of sections in one reading operation.

Further, it is preferable that the total length of the code is longer than the detection window, which is a range that the code recognition device can detect by one reading operation. In other words, it is preferable that the full width W1 of the continuous code and the width W2 of the window that can be detected by the code recognition device in one reading operation satisfy the relationship of W1> W2.
Thereby, for example, when the positions of a plurality of target objects are specified, the positions of more target objects in a wider range can be specified by effectively using the detection window of the code recognition device.
However, even if the relationship of W1> W2 is not satisfied, the continuous code according to the embodiment can be read using the code recognition device.

  The above continuous code may be mounted on the article in a form that can be detected one-dimensionally or two-dimensionally by an optical or electromagnetic technique. Here, the articles include, for example, media such as seals and labels, furniture and building materials such as bookshelves, wallpaper, and floors, and parts thereof.

  In the above, several embodiments have been described. A combination of these embodiments is also effective as an embodiment of the present invention. New embodiments resulting from the combination have the effects of the combined embodiments.

  The usage scene of the present invention having the above-described configuration and operation will be described below with reference to inventory management at a bookstore.

As in the example of FIG. 24, a target identification code is attached in advance to the spine of each booklet, and a continuous code is attached to the shelf plate of each book shelf.
When taking inventory, the person in charge uses the code recognition device's camera to capture the booklet group of all bookshelves in multiple steps while adjusting both the target identification code and continuous code to be within the camera's field of view. To do. The code recognition device reads each target identification code and a section of the continuous code located in the vicinity of the target identification code from the captured image. And the information regarding the book linked | related with the target identification code and the storage position of the book are linked | related and recorded.

As a result, it is possible to quickly and easily create a list relating to the inventory and storage positions of books stored in the bookshelf.
In addition, when you want to search for a specific booklet, you can input information such as the title of the booklet you want to search into the code recognition device, so that the detailed storage position of the book can be found from the list regarding the latest inventory and storage position. Can be obtained.

In a bookstore, a large number of booklets are arranged on each shelf board of a large number of bookshelves, and it is not easy to manage where each book is located on each shelf.
By using a continuous code, the inventory status and detailed storage positions of a large number of booklets can be managed easily and quickly.
Since such efficient inventory management eliminates waste of products, materials, parts, etc., leading to shortened delivery times and reduced management costs and transportation costs, the present invention is in a severe survival competition such as manufacturing and retailing. Has important significance.

  In the above, this invention was demonstrated based on the Example. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that this embodiment is an exemplification, and that various modifications can be made to combinations of the respective components and processing processes, and such modifications are also within the scope of the present invention. By the way.

  For example, in the embodiment, by using a data sequence in which each term of the arithmetic sequence and alternating delimiters are used, all the data expressed by a section made up of a predetermined number of elements consecutive from different head positions is different. It was shown that a continuous code can be created. This continuous code can also be applied when a DNA base sequence is used as an information carrier. When writing information to a base sequence, it is necessary to design a set of different base sequences having the same length. If a long base sequence is prepared using the continuous code of the present invention, the base sequence does not match in each section. Therefore, by cutting out the created long base sequence with a length equal to or longer than the length of the section, a set of different base sequences having the same length can be created, and mishybridization can be avoided.

  The present invention can be used in the field of information processing.

  24 position code extraction unit, 30 section data acquisition unit, 32 cell recognition unit, 34 element recognition unit, 36 element decoding unit, 100 code recognition unit, 108 section, 110 dot matrix code, 112 section, 120 continuous matrix code, 122, 124 section, 130a, 130b, 132, 134, 136 detection mark, 142a, 144a cycle identification indicator, 150 annular continuous code, 160 annular matrix code, 170 continuous matrix code, 180 target identification code.

Claims (57)

A continuous code expressed as a pattern including a plurality of elements each indicating one data unit,
The element is formed including one or more symbols or an arrangement thereof,
The arrangement of elements is determined so that all the data expressed by the section, which is an arrangement of a predetermined number of elements consecutive from different head positions in the continuous code, are different,
The pattern includes a regular pattern that is periodically expressed with one or more elements or one or more symbols as a unit. The continuous code according to claim 1,
A continuous code configured by alternately arranging a label portion including m elements (m is an integer of 2 or more) and elements indicating boundaries between the label portions.   3. The continuous code according to claim 2, wherein each of the indicator units represents an m-digit n-ary number (n is an integer of 2 or more), which is a term of an arithmetic sequence. The continuous code according to claim 3, wherein the tolerance of the arithmetic sequence is either a number that is relatively prime to ^nm or 1.   The continuous code according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the continuous code is configured so as to conform to a cut-out determination condition of an algorithm for cutting out the continuous code.   The continuous code according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising a detection mark for cutting out the continuous code. The continuous code according to any one of claims 1 to 6, which is read by a predetermined detector,
A continuous code characterized in that a minimum number of consecutive symbols or elements serving as a threshold for determining whether or not to cut out a pattern read by the detector as a part of the continuous code is defined. A continuous cord formed by connecting a plurality of continuous cords according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
A continuous code characterized in that a cycle identification mark for identifying each cycle which is a unit of repetition is attached in association with a symbol or element belonging to each cycle. A continuous cord formed by connecting a plurality of the continuous cords according to any one of claims 1 to 8,
A plurality of elements are used to represent each data unit, and a pattern is formed using different elements to represent each data unit by each cycle, which is a repeating unit of continuous codes. Is a continuous code.   The continuous code according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the code is configured in a closed loop so that a leading symbol and a trailing symbol are adjacent to each other. A continuous cord according to any one of claims 1 to 10,
A continuous code, wherein a distance between a target identification code used for identifying a target object and the continuous code is shorter than a predetermined reference distance. The continuous code according to any one of claims 1 to 11,
An information code for recording data different from data represented by the continuous code is embedded in an area where the continuous code is arranged. The continuous code according to any one of claims 1 to 12,
For an array of multiple target objects, each with a target identification code,
A continuous code characterized in that the plurality of target objects are arranged in accordance with a rule defined for specifying the position of the plurality of target objects using the continuous code. The continuous code according to any one of claims 1 to 13,
When a predefined point on the target identification code used to identify the target object is associated with one of the symbols constituting the continuous code,
The position data indicated by the section to which the one symbol belongs is presented, and the position of the target object can be specified by presenting the position of the one symbol in the section. A continuous code characterized by The continuous code according to claim 13 or 14,
A continuous code expressed in a format that can be read using a technique similar to the technique for reading the target identification code. The continuous code according to any one of claims 1 to 15,
The symbol is expressed in a form that is optically recognizable, and is a continuous code. The continuous code according to any one of claims 1 to 16,
The symbol is a colored cell, and the continuous code is defined so that data is expressed in an array of the cells or a color transition between adjacent cells in the array. A continuous code according to any of claims 1 to 17,
The continuous code is characterized in that the symbols are arranged so that data is expressed using displacements from respective predetermined reference positions. A continuous cord according to any one of claims 1 to 18,
The continuous code is surrounded by a region having a single color. A continuous cord according to any one of claims 1 to 19,
The continuous code is characterized in that a size of the section is determined such that a range occupied by the section is narrower than a range in which a detector detecting the continuous code can be detected by one reading operation. A code recognition apparatus for decoding a continuous code according to any one of claims 1 to 20 and converting it into a data string,
A method comprising a section selection step of selecting one or more sections or one or more section data. The decoding method according to claim 21, wherein
The section selection step includes
Designating one or more data units in an array of data units obtained by decoding the elements constituting the continuous code; and
Selecting one or more section data associated with the specified data unit. The decoding method according to claim 21, wherein
The section selection step includes
An element specification step for specifying one or more symbols or elements in the input image;
Selecting one or more sections associated with the designated symbol or element. The decoding method according to claim 23, wherein
In the element specifying step,
A method wherein one or more symbols or elements are specified based on a position of the symbol or element in the image or a positional relationship between the other object in the image and the symbol or element. A decoding method according to any of claims 21 to 24, wherein
A symbol recognition step of extracting symbols satisfying the symbol cut-out condition from the extracted continuous code and identifying each symbol;
The symbol recognition step includes
Extracts a symbol that is determined not to satisfy the symbol extraction condition when the positional relationship between the symbol determined not to satisfy the symbol extraction condition and the symbol determined to satisfy the symbol extraction condition satisfies the symbol continuation condition And a continuous symbol extraction step that identifies the method. A decoding method according to any of claims 21 to 25, wherein
In the symbol recognition step, it is determined whether or not the symbol extraction condition is satisfied for a symbol detected within a predetermined range of a detection window of the detector. A code recognition device for recognizing a continuous code according to any one of claims 1 to 20,
An element recognition unit that extracts elements from the extracted continuous code and identifies each element;
An element decoding unit for decoding each element in data units;
A code recognition device comprising: a section or a section selection unit for selecting section data. An article storage area including an area capable of storing a plurality of articles,
21. The article storage area, wherein the continuous cord according to any one of claims 1 to 20 is attached in juxtaposition to a region for storing the article. An article storage area including a space capable of storing a plurality of articles,
The continuous code according to any one of claims 1 to 20 is attached,
An article storage area in which an area to which the continuous code is attached is determined so that when the article is stored, a part of the continuous code cannot be detected from the outside by the article. A continuous code formed including a sequence of symbols and read by a predetermined code recognition device,
The full width W1 of the continuous code and the width W2 of the window that can be detected by the code recognition device in one reading operation satisfy the relationship of W1> W2,
The number N1 of symbols included in the array of symbols read in the detection window and the minimum number N2 of symbols included in the array of symbols that can be interpreted by the code recognition device are: A continuous code characterized in that the relation N1> N2 is satisfied. A code recognition device for reading a continuous code formed including an array of symbols,
A detection unit for detecting a part of the continuous code;
A decoding unit that decodes an array of symbols included in the detected continuous code,
The full width W1 of the continuous code and the width W2 of the window that can be detected by the detection unit in one reading operation satisfy the relationship of W1> W2,
The number N1 of symbols included in the array of symbols read in the detection window and the minimum number N2 of symbols included in the array of symbols that can be interpreted by the code recognition device are: A code recognition apparatus configured to satisfy a relationship of N1> N2. A continuous matrix code in which a pattern including a plurality of symbols is arranged in a lattice pattern,
The elements formed by one or the arrangement of the symbols are each formed to represent one data unit,
In each row constituting the continuous matrix code, the arrangement of elements is determined so that all the data expressed by the section, which is an arrangement of a predetermined number of elements continuous from different head positions, are different,
In each column constituting the continuous matrix code, the arrangement of elements is determined so that all the data expressed by the section, which is an arrangement of a predetermined number of elements continuous from different head positions, is different,
Each of the elements is data relating to the position of the row in which the element is included by the difference between the number indicated by the element and the number indicated by the element corresponding to the element in the previous or next row in which the element is included. Is expressed,
Each of the elements is data relating to the position of the column in which the element is included by the difference between the number indicated by the element and the number indicated by the element corresponding to the element in the previous or next column in which the element is included. A continuous matrix code characterized in that is defined to be expressed. A continuous matrix code according to claim 32, comprising:
Each row constituting the continuous matrix code is configured by alternately arranging a label portion formed including a plurality of continuous elements and an element indicating a boundary,
Each column constituting the continuous matrix code is configured by alternately arranging a marker portion formed by including a plurality of continuous elements and an element indicating a boundary. A continuous matrix code according to claim 32 or 33,
The continuous matrix code is characterized in that the element is defined such that data is represented by an array of colored cells or a color transition between adjacent cells in the array. A continuous matrix code in which a plurality of symbols that are elements representing one data unit are arranged in a grid pattern,
Each of the symbols is arranged such that data is expressed using a displacement from a lattice point which is a reference position where the symbol is arranged,
Each row constituting the continuous matrix code is configured by alternately arranging a mark portion formed including a plurality of continuous symbols and a symbol indicating a boundary,
In each row, the arrangement of the symbols is determined so that all the data expressed by the section, which is an arrangement of a predetermined number of elements consecutive from different head positions, are different,
Each column constituting the continuous matrix code is configured by alternately arranging a marker portion formed including a plurality of continuous symbols and a symbol indicating a boundary,
A continuous matrix code characterized in that in each of the columns, a symbol arrangement is determined so that all data expressed by sections, which are arrangements of a predetermined number of elements consecutive from different head positions, are all different. A continuous matrix code according to any of claims 32 to 35,
The continuous matrix code is formed so that data is expressed by using different sequences in the row direction and the column direction. A continuous matrix code according to any of claims 32 to 36,
Each said label | marker part represents the number which is one term of an arithmetic sequence, The continuous matrix code | cord | chord characterized by the above-mentioned.   38. The continuous matrix code according to any one of claims 32 to 37, wherein the continuous matrix code is configured to conform to a cut-out determination condition of an algorithm for cutting out the continuous code.   39. The continuous matrix code according to claim 32, wherein each of the symbols or elements, or a group thereof, includes a detection mark for cutting out the continuous matrix code. A continuous matrix code. 40. A continuous matrix code according to any of claims 32 to 39, read by a predetermined detector,
A continuous matrix code characterized in that a minimum number of consecutive symbols is defined as a threshold value when determining whether or not to cut out a symbol read by the code recognition device as a part of the continuous matrix code. A continuous matrix code formed by connecting a plurality of continuous matrix codes according to any one of claims 32 to 40,
A continuous matrix code characterized in that a group identification mark for identifying each group as a repeating unit is attached in association with a symbol or element belonging to each group. A continuous matrix code formed by connecting a plurality of continuous matrix codes according to any one of claims 32 to 40,
A plurality of elements are used to represent each data unit, and a pattern is formed by using different elements to represent each data unit by each group which is a repeating unit of a continuous matrix code. Characteristic continuous matrix code.   43. The continuous matrix code according to any one of claims 32 to 42, wherein the code is configured in a closed loop shape so that a leading column and a trailing column are adjacent to each other. . A continuous matrix code according to any of claims 32 to 43,
A continuous matrix code, wherein an information code for recording data different from the data represented by the continuous matrix code is further embedded in an area where the continuous matrix code is disposed. A continuous matrix code according to any of claims 32 to 44,
When a predefined point on the target identification code used to identify the target object is associated with one of the symbols that make up the continuous matrix code,
The position data indicated by the section to which the one symbol belongs is presented, and the position of the target identification code can be specified by presenting the position of the one symbol in the section. A continuous matrix code characterized in that A continuous matrix code according to claim 45, comprising:
The continuous matrix code, wherein the target identification code and the continuous matrix code are expressed in a format that can be read using the same kind of technology. A continuous matrix code according to any of claims 32 to 46,
In each row, each section is formed including k elements (k is an integer of 3 or more),
In each row, each section is formed including k elements (k is an integer of 3 or more),
The range occupying a portion of the continuous code forming a continuous k column portion of continuous k rows is narrower than a range that can be detected by a single reading operation by a detector for reading the continuous code. A continuous matrix code characterized in that the size of the continuous matrix code is defined. A decoding method for a code recognition device to decode the continuous matrix code according to any one of claims 32 to 47 and convert it into a data string,
A method comprising a section selection step of selecting one or more sections or one or more section data. A decoding method according to claim 48, comprising:
The section selection step includes
Designating one or more data units in an array of data units obtained by decoding the elements constituting the continuous code; and
Selecting one or more section data associated with the specified data unit. A decoding method according to claim 48, comprising:
The section selection step includes
An element specification step for specifying one or more symbols or elements in the input image;
Selecting one or more sections associated with the designated symbol or element. The decoding method according to claim 50, comprising:
In the element specifying step,
A method wherein one or more symbols or elements are specified based on a position of the symbol or element in the image or a positional relationship between the other object in the image and the symbol or element. A decoding method according to any of claims 48 to 51, wherein
A symbol recognition step of extracting symbols satisfying the symbol cut-out condition from the extracted continuous code and identifying each symbol;
The symbol recognition step includes
Extracts a symbol that is determined not to satisfy the symbol extraction condition when the positional relationship between the symbol determined not to satisfy the symbol extraction condition and the symbol determined to satisfy the symbol extraction condition satisfies the symbol continuation condition And a continuous symbol extraction step that identifies the method. 53. A decoding method according to any of claims 48 to 52, comprising:
In the symbol recognition step, it is determined whether or not the symbol extraction condition is satisfied for a symbol detected within a predetermined range of a detection window of the detector. A code recognition device for recognizing a continuous matrix code according to any of claims 32 to 47,
An element recognition unit that extracts elements from the extracted continuous code and identifies each element;
An element decoding unit for decoding each element in data units;
A code recognition device comprising: a section or a section selection unit for selecting section data. An article storage area including an area capable of storing a plurality of articles,
48. An article storage yard, to which the continuous matrix code according to claim 32 is attached. An article storage area including an area capable of storing a plurality of articles,
A continuous matrix code according to any one of claims 32 to 47 is attached,
An article storage area in which an area to which the continuous matrix code is attached is determined so that when the article is stored, a part of the continuous matrix code cannot be detected from the outside by the article.   The continuous code according to any one of claims 1 to 20 or the continuous matrix code according to any of claims 32 to 47 can be detected in a one-dimensional or two-dimensional manner by an optical or electromagnetic technique. Articles characterized by being mounted.