JP2012018494A - Bar code symbol reader, bar code symbol reading method, and computer program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a bar code symbol reader, a bar code symbol reading method, and a computer program, capable of surely reading a bar code symbol even if it is difficult to identify bar code symbols such as one-dimensional codes or two-dimensional codes to be read.SOLUTION: An image containing at least one bar code symbol is acquired, and the acquired image is displayed. On the image containing at least one bar code symbol, specification of a tuning area extracting setting parameters of setting items concerning the characteristics of the bar code symbol is received so as to surround one bar code symbol. Input of the setting parameters is partly received and the bar code symbol is detected within the tuning area of which the specification has been received. Determining whether the detected bar code symbol can be normally decoded, a setting parameter of the bar code symbol is extracted if it is determined that the bar code symbol can be normally decoded.

Description

  The present invention relates to a barcode symbol reading device, a barcode symbol reading method, and a computer program for reading a two-dimensional code such as a barcode and a QR code.

  Conventionally, various barcode symbol readers that read two-dimensional codes such as barcodes and QR codes perform positioning after performing positioning of the two-dimensional code using the unique characteristics of each two-dimensional code. ing. In order to detect the position where the two-dimensional code to be read is present, an input of a parameter indicating a unique characteristic of the two-dimensional code may be directly received, or an area for detecting the position where the two-dimensional code is present (hereinafter referred to as an area for detecting the position) , A search area) specification may be received, and a parameter indicating a unique characteristic of the two-dimensional code may be extracted.

  Patent Document 1 discloses a two-dimensional code reading device having an area designating function for a search area for detecting a predetermined finder pattern. In Patent Document 1, a two-dimensional code to be read is detected and decoded by manually setting parameters indicating characteristics such as information regarding the width ratio of the monochrome pattern specific to the version and type of QR code. (Read).

Japanese Patent No. 4013027

  In order to improve the stability and speed of two-dimensional code reading, parameters that indicate the characteristics of the two-dimensional code to be read are often limited. In this case, the parameters indicating the characteristics of the two-dimensional code are extracted from an image obtained by accepting a user's direct input or capturing an image of the two-dimensional code, for example, as information such as a barcode symbol color type and symbol size.

  Recently, a two-dimensional code is often applied to a printing surface where it is difficult to read the two-dimensional code, such as printing on the surface of a casting surface or printing on a mirror surface. When reading a two-dimensional code from such a printing surface, the two-dimensional code reading device disclosed in Patent Document 1 is very likely to perform various settings so that it can be read reliably even on a mirror surface, a casting surface or the like. There was a problem that it might be difficult.

  Further, when the two-dimensional code cannot be detected, it is necessary for the user to directly input parameters indicating the characteristics of the two-dimensional code, and the work is complicated. Furthermore, there is a problem that it is difficult for a user to directly input a parameter indicating a feature that cannot be determined by appearance such as mirror reversal.

  In addition, if there are multiple two-dimensional codes in the search area, it may be difficult to specify the two-dimensional code that is the target of the tuning process, and parameters that accurately indicate the characteristics of the two-dimensional code are extracted. There was also a problem that it was difficult.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and even when it is difficult to specify a barcode symbol such as a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code to be read, the barcode symbol is surely displayed. An object of the present invention is to provide a barcode symbol reading device, a barcode symbol reading method, and a computer program that can be read.

  In order to achieve the above object, a barcode symbol reader according to a first aspect of the present invention reads a feature parameter relating to the characteristics of a one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code to be read from an image, and detects the one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code. In the barcode symbol reader for decoding, an acquisition means for acquiring an image including at least one one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code, a display means for displaying the acquired image, and at least one one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code An area designation accepting means for accepting a designation of a tuning area for extracting a setting parameter of a setting item relating to the feature of the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code on an image including the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code. And a setting parameter input acceptor that partially accepts the input of the setting parameter. And a detecting means for detecting the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code in the tuning region that has received the designation, and a determination for determining whether the detected one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code can be normally decoded And an extraction means for extracting a setting parameter of the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code when the determination means determines that the decoding can be normally performed.

  Further, the barcode symbol reading device according to the second invention is the first invention, wherein the position and orientation of the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code are determined on an image including at least one one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code. Search area designation accepting means for accepting designation of a search area to be detected is provided, wherein the area designation accepting means accepts designation of the tuning area separately from the search area.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided the barcode symbol reader according to the first or second aspect, wherein the region designation receiving means is a symbol unique to the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code in the tuning region that has received the designation. Symbol determination means for determining whether or not the symbol can be detected, and when the symbol determination means determines that the symbol cannot be detected, the tuning region designation is received again. Features.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the barcode symbol reading device according to any one of the first to third aspects, wherein the setting item includes at least a size of a cell constituting a symbol unique to the two-dimensional code, two It includes any one of the code type of the dimension code, contrast, print color type, mirror inversion, reference angle, imaging condition, pitch angle, and image filter type.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the barcode symbol reading device according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, wherein the setting parameter input receiving means is a setting parameter extraction target in the extraction means. It is also characterized in that input of information regarding whether or not there is also accepted.

  According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the barcode symbol reading device according to the fifth aspect, wherein the extracting means accepts an input without updating the setting parameter when the setting item is not a setting parameter extraction target. A parameter is used, and when the setting item is a setting parameter extraction target, the setting parameter is extracted.

  According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the bar code symbol reading device according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, the setting parameter input receiving means indicates that the setting parameter is not specified as the setting parameter. It is characterized by accepting input.

  According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the barcode symbol reader according to any one of the first to seventh aspects, wherein the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code is detected based on a size of the tuning area. The ratio of reducing the image in the tuning area to the smallest possible size is calculated, and the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code is detected using a reduced image reduced according to the calculated ratio. It is characterized by that.

  Next, in order to achieve the above object, the barcode symbol reading method according to the ninth aspect of the present invention reads a feature parameter relating to the characteristics of the one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code to be read from the image, and the one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code. In a barcode symbol reading method that can be executed by a barcode symbol reading device that detects and decodes, a step of acquiring an image including at least one one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code, and displaying the acquired image Specifying a tuning region for extracting a setting parameter of a setting item relating to the feature of the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code on an image including at least one one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code; Or accepting the two-dimensional code so as to enclose it, and inputting the setting parameter A step of partially receiving the step, a step of detecting the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code in the tuning region that has received the designation, and whether the detected one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code can be normally decoded And a step of extracting a setting parameter of the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code when it is determined that the decoding can be normally performed.

  Next, in order to achieve the above object, the computer program according to the tenth aspect of the invention reads feature parameters relating to the characteristics of the one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code to be read from the image, and detects the one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code. In the computer program that can be executed by the barcode symbol reader that decodes the barcode, the barcode symbol reader is configured to acquire at least one one-dimensional code or an image including a two-dimensional code. The display means for displaying, specifying the tuning area for extracting the setting parameters of the setting items relating to the features of the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code on the image including at least one one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code, Accepting area designation to enclose original code or 2D code Means, a setting parameter input receiving means for partially receiving the input of the setting parameter, a detecting means for detecting the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code in the tuning region where the specification is received, the detected one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code Means for determining whether or not can be decoded normally, and extraction for extracting setting parameters of the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code when the determining means determines that the decoding can be normally performed It is made to function as a means.

  In the first invention, the ninth invention, and the tenth invention, an image including at least one one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code is acquired, and the acquired image is displayed. Specify the tuning area to extract the setting parameters of the setting items related to the features of the one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code on the image including at least one one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code. Accept to enclose. A part of the input of the setting parameter is received, and a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code is detected in the tuning region where the specification is received. It is determined whether or not the detected one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code can be normally decoded. When it is determined that the detected one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code can be normally decoded, the setting parameters of the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code are extracted. By accepting the specification of the tuning area so as to enclose the one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code to be read, the time until the detection of the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code can be shortened, and the target of the tuning process It becomes possible to specify the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code to be surely.

  In the second invention, designation of a search area for detecting the position and orientation of the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code on an image including at least one one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code is accepted. By receiving designation of the tuning area separately from the search area, the target area of the tuning process can be limited to the vicinity of the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code, and until the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code is detected. Time can be shortened.

  In the third invention, it is determined whether or not a symbol specific to the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code can be detected in the tuning region that has received the designation, and if it is determined that the symbol cannot be detected, Accepts specification of tuning area. As a result, even if there is an error in the specification of the tuning area, it is possible to confirm in advance and accept the specification of the tuning area, and one tuning code is surely included in the tuning area. It becomes possible to make it.

  In the fourth invention, the setting items include at least the size of a cell constituting a symbol unique to the two-dimensional code, the code type of the two-dimensional code, the contrast, the color type of printing, the mirror inversion, the reference angle, the imaging condition, and the pitch angle. By including any of the image filter types, representative two-dimensional codes such as a data matrix (DM) code and a QR code can be detected more efficiently.

  In the fifth invention, by accepting the input of information regarding whether or not each setting item is a setting parameter extraction target, it is possible to avoid the process of extracting the setting parameter of the setting item related to the feature that is not the extraction target, The calculation processing load of the one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code detection process can be reduced.

  In the sixth invention, when the setting item is a setting parameter extraction target, the setting parameter is extracted. If the setting item is not a setting parameter extraction target, the tuning process is executed by limiting to the setting parameter that has received the input without updating the setting parameter. As a result, a more stable tuning process can be executed.

  In the seventh invention, by accepting an input indicating that no setting parameter is specified as a setting parameter, a one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code is widely detected without being limited to a specific one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code. be able to.

  In the eighth invention, based on the size of the tuning area, a ratio for reducing the image in the tuning area to a minimum size capable of detecting the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code is calculated, and the ratio is calculated according to the calculated ratio. A one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code is detected using the reduced image reduced in this way. Thereby, since it can be limited to the processing with the minimum reduced image required when detecting the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code, the processing load of the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code detection processing can be greatly reduced.

  According to the present invention, by accepting the designation of the tuning area so as to surround one one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code, the time until detecting the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code can be shortened, and the tuning process It is possible to reliably specify the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code that is the target of the above.

It is a block diagram which shows typically the structure of the barcode symbol reader which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is an illustration figure of the data structure of the characteristic parameter memory | storage part of the image processing apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a functional block diagram which shows the example of 1 structure of the barcode symbol reader which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the concept of a tuning area | region. It is a functional block diagram of the area | region designation | designated reception means of the barcode symbol reader which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is an illustration figure of the setting parameter reception screen of the barcode symbol reader which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. FIG. 11 is a screen example showing a case where a setting parameter of a setting item “code type” is “no specification”. It is a screen illustration figure which shows the case where the fact that a two-dimensional code is DM code is extracted by the tuning process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the two-dimensional code reading process of the main control part of the image processing apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows typically the structure of the barcode symbol reader which concerns on Embodiment 2 of this invention. It is a functional block diagram which shows the example of 1 structure of the barcode symbol reader which concerns on Embodiment 2 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the two-dimensional code reading process of CPU of PC which concerns on Embodiment 2 of this invention. It is a functional block diagram which shows one structural example in the case of performing the tuning process of the barcode symbol reader which concerns on Embodiment 2 of this invention with an image processing apparatus.

  A barcode symbol reader according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Throughout the drawings to be referred, elements having the same or similar configuration or function are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

(Embodiment 1)
FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically showing a configuration of a bar code symbol reading apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, the barcode symbol reading apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment includes an image processing apparatus 2, a camera 3, a console 4, and a PLC 6.

  The image processing apparatus 2 includes at least a CPU (central processing unit), a main control unit 21 configured by an LSI, a memory 22, a storage device 23, a video interface 24, an input / output interface 25, a portable disk drive 26, a communication interface 27. And an internal bus 28 for connecting the hardware described above. The main control unit 21 is connected to each hardware unit as described above of the image processing apparatus 2 via the internal bus 28, and controls the operation of each hardware unit described above and is stored in the storage device 23. Various software functions are executed according to the computer program 100. The memory 22 is composed of a volatile memory such as SRAM or SDRAM, and a load module is expanded when the computer program 100 is executed, and stores temporary data generated when the computer program 100 is executed.

  The storage device 23 includes a built-in fixed storage device (hard disk, flash memory), ROM, and the like. The computer program 100 stored in the storage device 23 is downloaded by a portable disk drive 26 from a portable recording medium 90 such as a DVD, CD-ROM, or flash memory in which information such as programs and data is recorded. It is expanded from the storage device 23 to the memory 22 and executed. Of course, a computer program downloaded from an external computer via the communication interface 27 may be used.

  The storage device 23 stores setting items relating to features of the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code, setting parameters for each setting item, and information relating to whether or not each setting item is a setting parameter extraction target by the tuning process. A storage unit 231 is provided. FIG. 2 is an exemplary diagram of a data configuration of the feature parameter storage unit 231 of the image processing apparatus 2 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the setting items related to the characteristics of the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code are, for example, in the case of a two-dimensional code, at least the size of a cell constituting a symbol, the code type of the two-dimensional code, the symbol size, It includes any of contrast, print color type, mirror inversion, reference angle, imaging condition, pitch angle, and image filter type.

  In the “size of cells constituting a symbol”, for example, the vertical number, the horizontal number, and the size of each cell constituting a symbol unique to the two-dimensional code are stored. That is, the symbol size is indicated by the number of vertical cells and the number of horizontal cells, and by storing the size of each cell together, the detected two-dimensional code can be decoded more accurately. it can. In the first embodiment, the size of each cell is stored as a PPC (Pixel Per Cell) in “pixel” units, but may be stored in “inch” units according to the actual length. However, it may be stored in units of “mm”. In the case of a one-dimensional code such as a bar code, the size per module may be stored in the same “pixel” unit based on the interval of the thinnest bar, space, etc. Then, it may be stored in units of “inch” or may be stored in units of “mm”.

  In the “code type”, a code type of a two-dimensional code, for example, a DM (data matrix) code, a QR code, or the like is stored. In the “symbol size”, for example, when the code type of the two-dimensional code is a DM (DataMatrix) code, a size from 10 × 10 to 144 × 144 is stored. As the code type of the one-dimensional code, the type such as JAN code, interleaved 2 of 5, code 39, etc. is stored.

  In the “contrast”, a numerical value representing a change in pixel value between the background and the foreground of the two-dimensional code in terms of gradation is stored. The “printing color type” stores the color type of a two-dimensional code consisting of a black symbol or a two-dimensional code consisting of a black and white inverted symbol. In “mirror inversion”, whether or not the two-dimensional code is obtained by printing the two-dimensional code on the glass surface and picking up an image from the opposite side is stored.

  The “reference angle” stores the angle of the imaged two-dimensional code when the upright state is 0 degree and the clockwise direction is positive. As “imaging conditions”, conditions at the time of imaging including at least “exposure time”, “illumination pattern”, “camera gain”, and the like are stored. In the “pitch angle”, the relative angle of the surface of the image sensor with respect to the printing surface of the two-dimensional code is stored. The “image filter type” stores the type of image filter used when executing filtering processing such as median filter.

  When the input of the setting parameter is accepted, it is stored in the feature parameter storage unit 231 for each setting item. As in the example of FIG. 2, when no input is accepted, the setting parameter is “not specified”.

  That is, for each setting item, information regarding whether or not the setting parameter is to be extracted by the tuning process is stored, and the setting item that is to be extracted by the tuning process is the setting extracted by the tuning process. A parameter is specified. For setting items that are not subject to setting parameter extraction by tuning processing, it is necessary to accept input of setting parameters. As a result, it is not necessary to extract all setting items by the tuning process, so that the calculation processing load of the tuning process can be reduced. Further, when executing the tuning process, the tuning process is executed only for the set parameters for which the input has been accepted, so that a more stable tuning process can be executed.

  Returning to FIG. 1, the communication interface 27 is connected to an internal bus 28, and by connecting to an external network such as the Internet, a LAN, or a WAN, data can be transmitted / received to / from an external computer or the like. ing. That is, the above-described storage device 23 is not limited to the configuration built in the image processing device 2, and is not limited to an external device such as a hard disk installed in an external server computer connected via the communication interface 27. It may be a recording medium.

  The video interface 24 is connected to the internal bus 28 and displays a desired image by being connected to the display device 401 of the console 4. The input / output interface 25 is connected to the internal bus 28 and accepts data input via the keyboard 402 of the console 4. Note that the console 4 is not limited to a configuration in which the display device 401 and the keyboard 402 are integrated, and may be configured separately, or an input such as a touch panel integrated with a liquid crystal panel or the like. It is a broad concept that includes all devices that acquire information.

  The camera 3 is a CCD camera or the like provided with a CCD imaging device, and captures and acquires an image including at least one two-dimensional code 5. The image processing apparatus 2 executes not only a two-dimensional code reading process but also various image processes. The PLC 6 is a device that receives data from various devices including the image processing device 2 and transmits instructions to the image processing device 2 and / or various devices according to the received contents.

  FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram showing a configuration example of the bar code symbol reading apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. In FIG. 3, the barcode symbol reading device 1 according to the first embodiment includes a camera 3, an image processing device 2, a console 4, and a storage device 23. Hereinafter, a case where a barcode symbol of a two-dimensional code is read will be described.

  The image acquisition unit (acquisition unit) 201 acquires an image including at least one two-dimensional code by capturing the image with the camera 3. The method for acquiring an image is not limited to the image capturing by the camera 3, and an image captured in the past may be stored as image data in the storage device 23 and acquired by reading out desired image data. good. Alternatively, image data stored in an external computer may be acquired by reading out via the communication interface 27. The image data of the acquired image is stored in the storage device 23.

  The image display unit (display unit) 202 displays the acquired image on the display device 401 of the console 4. The entire displayed image may be used as a search area for detecting the position and orientation of the two-dimensional code, or a search area designation accepting unit (not shown) may accept designation of the search area.

  The region designation receiving unit 203 designates the tuning region for extracting the setting parameter of the setting item related to the feature of the two-dimensional code on the image including at least one two-dimensional code at a position surrounding the one two-dimensional code. And accept. By accepting the specification of the tuning area, it is not necessary to execute the tuning process including unnecessary areas, and the calculation processing load of the tuning process can be reduced.

  Further, it is preferable to accept the designation of the tuning area separately from the search area for detecting the position and orientation of the two-dimensional code. This is because the tuning region can be limited to the vicinity of the two-dimensional code, and the time until the two-dimensional code is detected can be shortened.

  FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram for explaining the concept of the tuning region. As shown in FIG. 4, designation of a search area 41 for detecting (searching) the position and orientation of a two-dimensional code on a screen displaying an image captured by the camera 3 is accepted. In the example of FIG. 4, since two DM codes 42 and 43 exist in the search area 41, when the DM code detection process is started as it is, it is unclear which DM code is detected. Further, since the detection process is executed for the plurality of DM codes 42 and 43, the search area 41 is relatively wide, and it is difficult to shorten the time until the DM code is detected.

  Therefore, in the first embodiment, the specification of the tuning area 44 is received so as to surround the DM code 42 so that the DM code 42 with a small symbol size can be reliably detected. As a result, the reading target can be specified as the DM code 42, and the setting parameters of the setting items relating to the features of the DM code 42 can be reliably extracted. Further, since the tuning area 44 is narrower than the search area 41, the time until the DM code 42 is detected can be shortened.

  Furthermore, for example, when the designation of a rotatable rectangular area can be accepted as the tuning area 44, the designation of the tuning area 44 can be accepted according to the inclination angle of the symbol specific to the two-dimensional code. In this detection process, since the detection angle can be expected to be close to the rotation angle of the rotatable rectangular area that has received the designation, the search range of the detection angle can be narrowed, and the time until the DM code 42 is detected as a whole can be reduced. It can be shortened.

  When the tuning area 44 is a rectangular area, for example, designation of the upper left coordinate value and the lower right coordinate value of the rectangular area is accepted. Further, when the tuning area 44 is a rotatable rectangular area, for example, the width, height, center coordinates of the rectangular area, and the rotation angle when the rectangular area is upright (the reference angle is 0 degree) Accept specification.

  Furthermore, the shape of the region that accepts the designation as the tuning region 44 is not limited to a rectangle, and is not particularly limited as long as it is a shape that can surround a symbol unique to the two-dimensional code, such as a circle or an ellipse. Absent. Also, a plurality of shapes can be used, and when receiving designation of the tuning area 44, selection of which shape to use for accepting designation may be accepted.

  Further, when the tuning area 44 is not properly specified, for example, when the designation of the tuning area 44 is received at a position where only a part of the unique symbol is included in the two-dimensional code to be read in the tuning area 44, The code type of the dimension code cannot be extracted correctly. Therefore, it is preferable to determine whether or not a symbol specific to the two-dimensional code can be detected when the designation of the tuning area is received.

  FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram of the area designation receiving unit 203 of the barcode symbol reading apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. In FIG. 5, a symbol determination unit 501 determines whether or not a symbol unique to the two-dimensional code can be detected.

  For example, when the two-dimensional code is a QR code, it is necessary to detect rectangular symbols at three positions among the four corners of the two-dimensional code. When the tuning area 44 that has received the designation is shifted in the vertical direction or the horizontal direction, a part of the rectangular symbol cannot be detected, and it is extracted that the “code type” is a QR code as a setting parameter. Can not.

  The area redesignation receiving unit 502 receives the designation of the tuning area 44 again when the symbol determination unit 501 determines that a symbol unique to the two-dimensional code cannot be detected. Thereby, the one two-dimensional code can be surely included in the tuning area 44, that is, it can be ensured that the one two-dimensional code to be subjected to the tuning process exists in the tuning area 44 reliably. .

  Returning to FIG. 3, the setting parameter input receiving unit 204 partially receives the input of the setting parameters of the setting items related to the characteristics of the two-dimensional code. By accepting input of only the known setting parameters among the setting parameters of the setting items related to the characteristics of the two-dimensional code, it is determined what the code type of the two-dimensional code to be read is, depending on the setting parameters accepted. Or it can facilitate the extraction of unknown configuration parameters.

  FIG. 6 is an exemplary view of a setting parameter reception screen of the bar code symbol reading apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. First, in the target image setting area 61, designation is made as to whether the image to be tuned is an “input image” captured by the camera 3 or a “registered image” stored in the storage device 23. Accept. In the example of FIG. 6, designation of “registered image” is accepted.

  Next, the designation of the tuning area 44 is accepted as described above. Then, the setting parameter designation area 62 accepts input of setting parameters for necessary setting items. In the example of FIG. 6, for each setting item in the setting parameter designation area 62, a check box is provided that accepts input of information regarding whether or not the setting parameter is to be extracted by the tuning process.

  For setting items whose check boxes are checked, setting parameters are automatically specified by the tuning process. For setting items for which no check is input, input of setting parameters is accepted. In the example of FIG. 6, only the setting item “mirror inversion” is not checked. Therefore, “no inversion” is input as the setting parameter. Other setting items are blank before the tuning process, and when the selection of the “automatic tuning” button 63 is accepted, the tuning process is executed and the setting parameters for each extracted setting item are designated.

  In this way, by accepting input of information regarding whether or not a setting item is a setting parameter extraction target, if the setting item is not a setting parameter extraction target, the input is accepted without updating the setting parameter. Tuning processing can be executed only for setting parameters. Therefore, the calculation processing load of the tuning process can be reduced, and a more stable tuning process can be executed.

  The setting parameter input receiving unit 204 preferably receives an input of “no specification” indicating that no setting parameter is specified as the setting parameter. For example, when “None” input can be accepted as a setting parameter for the setting item “Code type”, various types of two-dimensional codes can be detected, and this is effective when the type of the two-dimensional code is unknown Is.

  FIG. 7 is an exemplary screen showing a case where the setting parameter of the setting item “code type” is “not specified”. In the code type setting area 71, not “DM code”, “QR code”, etc. but “undesignated” input is accepted. In this case, until the code type of the two-dimensional code in the tuning area 44 is extracted by the tuning process, the other setting items are not displayed in the setting parameter designation area 72 that receives the input of the setting parameters of the other setting items. Of course, the setting item “code type” is provided with a check box for accepting input of information regarding whether or not the setting parameter is to be extracted by the tuning process, and a check is input to the check box.

  When the selection of the “automatic tuning” button 73 is accepted in the state of FIG. 7, the tuning process is executed, and the code type of the two-dimensional code is first extracted. The method for extracting the code type is not particularly limited, and the symbol unique to each two-dimensional code may be extracted by pattern matching. FIG. 8 is an exemplary screen showing a case where it is extracted that the code type of the two-dimensional code is DM code by the tuning process.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the extracted setting parameter “DataMatrix” is specified in the setting item “code type” of the code type setting area 71, and “code type” is DM code in the setting parameter specification area 72. In this case, setting items for receiving input of setting parameters are displayed. At this point, the result of tuning processing is specified for each setting item. In this state, when the contents of the check boxes and setting items are changed and the selection of the “automatic tuning” button 73 is accepted as in FIG. 6, the tuning process is executed according to the changed contents and extracted according to the changed contents. Setting parameters for each setting item are specified.

  The tuning area 44 is preferably displayed differently from the search area 41. For example, the color of the frame indicating the tuning area 44 and the color of the frame indicating the search area 41 are different from each other. The line type of the frame indicating the tuning area 44 is different from the line type of the frame indicating the search area 41 ( The two-dimensional code to be read can be surely specified by making it possible to easily distinguish visually, such as a solid line and a broken line, and a thick line and a thin line.

  Returning to FIG. 3, the two-dimensional code detection means (detection means) 205 detects the two-dimensional code in the tuning region that has been designated by the region designation acceptance means 203. Conventionally, a two-dimensional code is detected within a search area for detecting (searching) a two-dimensional code. In the first embodiment, the two-dimensional code in the tuning area is detected by detecting a symbol specific to the two-dimensional code in the tuning area that has received designation separately from the search area.

  A decoding determination unit (determination unit) 206 determines whether or not the detected two-dimensional code can be normally decoded. The method for determining whether or not decoding can be performed normally is not particularly limited. For example, when the two-dimensional code itself cannot be detected, it can be determined that obviously it cannot be decoded normally.

  In addition, the specification of the tuning area is accepted so as to surround the area estimated to have a unique symbol in one two-dimensional code, and the two-dimensional code itself can be detected, but the monochrome pattern contains an error. In this case, it can be determined that the decoding cannot be performed normally. Usually, an error detection function or an error detection / correction function is added to a symbol unique to the two-dimensional code. When only the error detection function is provided, it can be determined that normal decoding cannot be performed when an error is detected. On the other hand, when an error detection / correction function is provided, it is possible to determine that an error is detected and decoding cannot be performed normally when error correction cannot be performed normally.

  When it is determined that the decoding can be normally performed, the setting parameter extraction unit (extraction unit) 207 uses the setting parameter that has received the input to set the setting parameter of the setting item that is the extraction target of the detected two-dimensional code. To extract. The extracted setting parameters are stored in the feature parameter storage unit 231 of the storage device 23. Thereby, the contents of the two-dimensional code can be read correctly.

  When it is determined that decoding cannot be performed normally, information (message or the like) indicating that the reading of the two-dimensional code has failed is preferably displayed on the display device 401 of the console 4. This is because it is possible to try again, such as changing the position relative to the camera 3 and re-imaging the two-dimensional code, or accepting the designation of the tuning area 44 again.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the two-dimensional code reading process of the main control unit 21 of the image processing apparatus 2 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The main control unit 21 of the image processing apparatus 2 acquires the image including at least one two-dimensional code captured by the camera 3 by capturing the image using the camera 3 (step S901). The method for acquiring an image is not limited to the image capturing by the camera 3, and an image captured in the past may be stored as image data in the storage device 23 and acquired by reading out desired image data. good. Alternatively, image data stored in an external computer may be acquired by reading out via the communication interface 27. The image data of the acquired image is stored in the storage device 23.

  The main control unit 21 displays the acquired image on the display device 401 of the console 4 (step S902). The entire displayed image may be used as a search area for detecting (searching) the position and orientation of the two-dimensional code, or a search area designation accepting unit (not shown) may accept designation of the search area.

  The main control unit 21 sets setting parameters of setting items related to the characteristics of the two-dimensional code separately from the search area for detecting the position and orientation of the two-dimensional code on the image including at least one two-dimensional code. The specification of the tuning area to be extracted is received so as to surround one two-dimensional code (step S903). The main control unit 21 partially receives input of setting parameters of setting items relating to the characteristics of the two-dimensional code (step S904). By accepting input of only the known setting parameters among the setting parameters of the setting items related to the characteristics of the two-dimensional code, it is determined what the code type of the two-dimensional code to be read is, depending on the setting parameters accepted. Or it can facilitate the extraction of unknown configuration parameters.

  The main control unit 21 detects a two-dimensional code in the tuning region that has received the designation (step S905). The main control unit 21 determines whether or not the two-dimensional code has been detected (step S906).

  When the main control unit 21 determines that the two-dimensional code can be detected (step S906: YES), the main control unit 21 determines whether the detected two-dimensional code can be normally decoded. (Step S907). When the main control unit 21 determines that it can be normally decoded (step S907: YES), the main control unit 21 uses the setting parameter that has received the input to extract the detected two-dimensional code. The setting parameter of the setting item is extracted (step S908). The extracted setting parameters are stored in the feature parameter storage unit 231 of the storage device 23. Thereby, the contents of the two-dimensional code can be read correctly.

  When the main control unit 21 determines that the two-dimensional code cannot be detected (step S906: NO), or when the main control unit 21 determines that it cannot be normally decoded (step S907: NO), the main control unit 21 Displays a message indicating that the tuning process has failed on the display device 401 of the console 4 (step S909).

  As described above, according to the first embodiment, by accepting the designation of the tuning area so as to surround one two-dimensional code, the time until the two-dimensional code is detected can be shortened. By including one two-dimensional code, it is possible to reliably specify the two-dimensional code to be subjected to the tuning process. In addition, by receiving the designation of the tuning area separately from the search area, the time until the two-dimensional code is detected can be shortened.

  Note that the symbol may be detected using an image obtained by reducing the image captured by the camera 3 in order to increase the processing speed of the process for detecting the symbol specific to the two-dimensional code. However, since the resolution of the reduced image (reduced image) is lowered, there is a limit to the ratio of reducing the image in order to detect a finder pattern unique to the two-dimensional code.

  Normally, the tuning area is specified so as to enclose one two-dimensional code and to minimize the margin area. Therefore, for example, in the case of a DM code, when the symbol size is known, and in the case of a QR code, when the version is known, the maximum reduction degree can be calculated from the ratio to the size of the tuning area that has received the designation.

  Therefore, in the first embodiment, the ratio of reducing the image in the tuning area to the minimum size that can detect the finder pattern unique to the two-dimensional code based on the size of the tuning area (the maximum reduction degree). ) And a two-dimensional code is detected using a reduced image reduced according to the calculated ratio. The minimum size at which a finder pattern specific to a two-dimensional code can be detected is the cell size of the two-dimensional code (or PPC. In the case of a one-dimensional code, the interval such as the narrowest bar or space) ).

  For example, in the case of a DM code, if the symbol size is known, and in the case of a QR code, if the version is known, the size of the cell can be estimated from the ratio to the size of the tuning region that has received the designation. Or the maximum reduction can be estimated. Further, when the QR code version is unknown, the maximum reduction degree can be estimated by assuming that the QR code version is the minimum version.

  Based on the estimated maximum degree of reduction, the image in the tuning area, that is, the image of the two-dimensional code is reduced, and the two-dimensional code is detected from the reduced image. As a result, the reduced image can be used for the detection of the finder pattern specific to the two-dimensional code, so that the processing load of the two-dimensional code detection process can be greatly reduced.

  A stepwise reduced image is prepared from a reduced image reduced at the maximum reduction degree, and symbol detection processing is first executed using the reduced image reduced at the maximum reduction degree. If it can be detected normally, the decoding process is continued. When the decoding process is normally completed, the calculation processing load of the symbol detection process and the decoding process for the reduced image is greatly reduced, so that the processing time can be greatly reduced.

  In addition, when the decoding process ends abnormally, the symbol detection process and the decoding process are executed in the same manner using the reduced images with the sequentially small reduction degrees. In some cases, the symbol detection process using the image before the reduction is performed. In some cases, the processing time is shorter than the processing time of the decoding process. This is because the calculation processing load of symbol detection processing and decoding processing on the reduced image is greatly reduced.

(Embodiment 2)
FIG. 10 is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of the bar code symbol reading apparatus 1 according to the second embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 10, the barcode symbol reading apparatus 1 according to the second embodiment includes an image processing apparatus 2, a camera 3, a PLC 6, and a PC 7.

  Since the configurations of the image processing apparatus 2 and the camera 3 are the same as those in the first embodiment, detailed description thereof will be omitted by attaching the same reference numerals.

  The PC 7 includes at least a CPU (central processing unit) 71, a memory 72, a storage device 73, a video interface 74, an input / output interface 75, a portable disk drive 76, a communication interface 77, and an internal bus 78 for connecting the hardware described above. Has been. The CPU 71 is connected to the above-described hardware units of the PC 7 via the internal bus 78, controls the operation of the above-described hardware units, and performs various operations according to the computer program 101 stored in the storage device 73. Execute the software function of. The memory 72 is composed of a volatile memory such as SRAM or SDRAM, and a load module is expanded when the computer program 101 is executed, and stores temporary data generated when the computer program 101 is executed.

  The storage device 73 is configured by a built-in fixed storage device (hard disk, flash memory), ROM, or the like. The computer program 101 stored in the storage device 73 is downloaded by a portable disk drive 76 from a portable recording medium 91 such as a DVD, CD-ROM, or flash memory in which information such as programs and data is recorded. The program is expanded from the storage device 73 to the memory 72 and executed. Of course, a computer program downloaded from an external computer via the communication interface 77 may be used.

  The communication interface 77 is connected to an internal bus 78, and is connected to an external network such as the Internet, a LAN, or a WAN, so that data can be transmitted / received to / from the image processing apparatus 2 or the like.

  The video interface 74 is connected to the internal bus 78 and displays a desired image by being connected to the display device 81. The input / output interface 75 is connected to the internal bus 78 and accepts data input via an input device 82 such as a keyboard or a mouse.

  FIG. 11 is a functional block diagram showing a configuration example of the barcode symbol reading apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. In FIG. 11, the barcode symbol reading device 1 according to the second embodiment includes a camera 3, an image processing device 2, and a PC 7.

  An image acquisition unit (acquisition unit) 701 acquires an image including at least one two-dimensional code from the image processing apparatus 2. The image display unit (display unit) 702 displays the acquired image on the display device 81. The entire displayed image may be used as a search area for detecting (searching) the position and orientation of the two-dimensional code, or a search area designation accepting unit (not shown) may accept designation of the search area.

  The region designation receiving means 703 designates the tuning region for extracting the setting parameter of the setting item relating to the feature of the two-dimensional code on the image including at least one two-dimensional code at a position surrounding the one two-dimensional code. And accept. By accepting the specification of the tuning area, it is not necessary to execute the tuning process including unnecessary areas, and the calculation processing load of the tuning process can be reduced.

  Further, it is preferable to accept the specification of the tuning area separately from the search area. This is because the tuning region can be limited to the vicinity of the two-dimensional code, and the time until the two-dimensional code is detected can be shortened.

  The setting parameter input receiving unit 704 partially receives input of setting parameters for setting items related to the characteristics of the two-dimensional code. By accepting input of only the known setting parameters among the setting parameters of the setting items related to the characteristics of the two-dimensional code, it is determined what the code type of the two-dimensional code to be read is, depending on the setting parameters accepted. Or it can facilitate the extraction of unknown configuration parameters.

  A two-dimensional code detection unit (detection unit) 705 detects a two-dimensional code in the tuning region that has been designated by the region designation acceptance unit 703. Conventionally, a two-dimensional code is detected within a search area for detecting (searching) a two-dimensional code. In the second embodiment, the two-dimensional code in the tuning area is detected by detecting a symbol unique to the two-dimensional code in the tuning area that has received the designation.

  A decoding determination unit (determination unit) 706 determines whether or not the detected two-dimensional code can be normally decoded. The method for determining whether or not decoding can be performed normally is not particularly limited.

  When it is determined that the decoding can be normally performed, the setting parameter extraction unit (extraction unit) 707 uses the setting parameter that has received the input to set the setting parameter of the setting item that is the extraction target of the detected two-dimensional code. To extract. The extracted setting parameters are received by the setting parameter acquisition unit 208 of the image processing apparatus 2 and stored in the feature parameter storage unit 231 of the storage device 23 of the image processing apparatus 2. Thereby, the contents of the two-dimensional code can be read correctly.

  When it is determined that decoding cannot be performed normally, it is preferable to display information (message or the like) indicating that reading of the two-dimensional code has failed on the display device 81. This is because it is possible to try again, such as changing the position relative to the camera 3 and re-imaging the two-dimensional code, or accepting the specification of the tuning area again.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the two-dimensional code reading process of the CPU 71 of the PC 7 according to the second embodiment of the present invention. The CPU 71 of the PC 7 acquires an image including at least one two-dimensional code from the image processing apparatus 2 (step S1201).

  The CPU 71 displays the acquired image on the display device 81 (step S1202). The entire displayed image may be used as a search area for detecting (searching) the position and orientation of the two-dimensional code, or a search area designation accepting unit (not shown) may accept designation of the search area.

  Tuning for extracting setting parameters of setting items relating to features of a two-dimensional code separately from a search region for detecting the position and orientation of the two-dimensional code on an image including at least one two-dimensional code The designation of the area is accepted so as to surround one two-dimensional code (step S1203). The CPU 71 partially accepts input of setting parameters of setting items relating to the characteristics of the two-dimensional code (step S1204). By accepting input of only the known setting parameters among the setting parameters of the setting items related to the characteristics of the two-dimensional code, it is determined what the code type of the two-dimensional code to be read is, depending on the setting parameters accepted. Or it can facilitate the extraction of unknown configuration parameters.

  The CPU 71 detects a two-dimensional code within the tuning region that has received the designation (step S1205). The CPU 71 determines whether or not the two-dimensional code has been detected (step S1206).

  When the CPU 71 determines that the two-dimensional code can be detected (step S1206: YES), the CPU 71 determines whether or not the detected two-dimensional code can be normally decoded (step S1207). When the CPU 71 determines that the decoding can be normally performed (step S1207: YES), the CPU 71 sets the setting item that is the extraction target of the detected two-dimensional code by using the setting parameter that has received the input. A parameter is extracted (step S1208). The CPU 71 transmits the extracted setting parameters to the image processing apparatus 2 (step S1209), and the transmitted setting parameters are stored in the feature parameter storage unit 231 of the storage device 23 of the image processing apparatus 2. Thereby, the contents of the two-dimensional code can be read correctly.

  When the CPU 71 determines that the two-dimensional code cannot be detected (step S1206: NO), or when it is determined that the two-dimensional code cannot be normally decoded (step S1207: NO), the CPU 71 fails in the tuning process. A message indicating that it has been displayed is displayed on the display device 81 (step S1210).

  As described above, according to the second embodiment, by accepting the designation of the tuning area so as to surround one two-dimensional code, the time until the two-dimensional code is detected can be shortened. By including one two-dimensional code, it is possible to reliably specify the two-dimensional code to be subjected to the tuning process. Further, since the PC 7 has a two-dimensional code reading processing function, it is possible to accept the designation of the tuning area independently even when not connected to the image processing apparatus 2 and accept the input of the setting parameters. be able to.

  The tuning processing function may be included in the image processing apparatus 2. FIG. 13 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the barcode symbol reader 1 according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention when tuning processing is executed by the image processing device 2.

  An image acquisition unit (acquisition unit) 701 acquires an image including at least one two-dimensional code from the image processing apparatus 2. The image display unit (display unit) 702 displays the acquired image on the display device 81. The entire displayed image may be used as a search area for detecting (searching) the position and orientation of the two-dimensional code, or a search area designation accepting unit (not shown) may accept designation of the search area.

  The region designation receiving means 703 designates the tuning region for extracting the setting parameter of the setting item relating to the feature of the two-dimensional code on the image including at least one two-dimensional code at a position surrounding the one two-dimensional code. And accept. By accepting the specification of the tuning area, it is not necessary to execute the tuning process including unnecessary areas, and the calculation processing load of the tuning process can be reduced.

  In addition, it is preferable to accept the designation of the tuning area separately from the search area for detecting the position and orientation of the two-dimensional code. This is because the tuning region can be limited to the vicinity of the two-dimensional code, and the time until the two-dimensional code is detected can be shortened.

  The setting parameter input receiving unit 704 partially receives input of setting parameters for setting items related to the characteristics of the two-dimensional code. By accepting input of only the known setting parameters among the setting parameters of the setting items related to the characteristics of the two-dimensional code, it is determined what the code type of the two-dimensional code to be read is, depending on the setting parameters accepted. Or it can facilitate the extraction of unknown configuration parameters.

  The setting information transmitting unit 708 transmits to the image processing apparatus 2 setting information including information related to the tuning area received by the area specification receiving unit 703 and information received by the setting parameter input receiving unit 704.

  The two-dimensional code detection unit (detection unit) 205, the decode determination unit (determination unit) 206, and the setting parameter extraction unit (extraction unit) 207 of the image processing apparatus 2 that has received the setting information are the same as those in FIG. Steps S905 to S909 are executed.

  By doing in this way, it is not necessary to execute tuning processing with a large calculation processing load on the PC 7, so that the computer program 101 operating on the PC 7 can be simplified, and the computer program 101 itself can be provided at low cost. it can.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various changes and improvements can be made within the scope of the present invention. For example, the two-dimensional code detection process and the decoding process are started when the selection of the “automatic tuning” button is received, but may be started when the specification of the tuning area is received, or the setting parameter input You may start each time you accept.

1 Barcode symbol reader 2 Image processing device 3 Camera (imaging means)
4 Console 5 Two-dimensional code 6 PLC
7 PC
21 Main control unit 22, 72 Memory 23, 73 Storage device 24, 74 Video interface 25, 75 Input / output interface 26, 76 Portable disk drive 27, 77 Communication interface 28, 78 Internal bus 71 CPU
90, 91 Portable recording medium 100, 101 Computer program

Claims (10)

In a barcode symbol reader that reads a feature parameter relating to a feature of a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code to be read from an image, detects and decodes the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code,
An acquisition means for acquiring an image including at least one one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code;
Display means for displaying the acquired image;
On the image including at least one one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code, a tuning area for extracting a setting parameter of a setting item related to the feature of the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code is designated as one one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code. An area designation receiving means for receiving the code so as to surround the code;
Setting parameter input receiving means for partially receiving the input of the setting parameter;
Detecting means for detecting the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code in a tuning region that has received a designation;
Determining means for determining whether or not the detected one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code can be normally decoded;
A bar code symbol reading apparatus comprising: an extracting unit that extracts a setting parameter of the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code when the determining unit determines that the decoding can be normally performed. A search area designation receiving means for receiving designation of a search area for detecting the position and orientation of the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code on an image including at least one one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code;
2. The bar code symbol reading apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the area designation accepting unit accepts designation of the tuning area separately from the search area. The area designation receiving means
In the tuning region that has received the designation, the symbol determination means for determining whether or not a symbol unique to the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code can be detected,
3. The bar code symbol reading apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the symbol judging means judges that the symbol cannot be detected, the designation of the tuning area is accepted again.   The setting items include at least the size of a cell constituting a symbol unique to the two-dimensional code, the code type of the two-dimensional code, contrast, the color type of printing, mirror inversion, reference angle, imaging condition, pitch angle, and image filter 4. The bar code symbol reading device according to claim 1, wherein the bar code symbol reading device includes any one of the following types.   5. The setting parameter input accepting unit is configured to accept an input of information regarding whether or not each setting item is a setting parameter extraction target in the extracting unit. The barcode symbol reader according to one item.   If the setting item is not a setting parameter extraction target, the extraction unit uses the setting parameter that has received an input without updating the setting parameter, and if the setting item is a setting parameter extraction target, 6. The bar code symbol reading apparatus according to claim 5, wherein a parameter is extracted. The setting parameter input receiving means
The barcode symbol reading device according to claim 1, wherein an input indicating that the setting parameter is not specified is received as the setting parameter.   Based on the size of the tuning area, calculate a ratio for reducing the image in the tuning area to a minimum size capable of detecting the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code, and according to the calculated ratio 8. The bar code symbol reading apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code is detected using a reduced reduced image. Bar code symbol reading that can be executed by a bar code symbol reading device that reads characteristic parameters related to the characteristics of a one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code to be read from an image, and detects and decodes the one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code. In the method
Obtaining an image comprising at least one one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code;
Displaying the acquired image; and
On the image including at least one one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code, a tuning area for extracting a setting parameter of a setting item related to the feature of the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code is designated as one one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code. A step of accepting to enclose the code,
Partially accepting input of the setting parameters;
Detecting the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code in a tuning region that has received a designation;
Determining whether the detected one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code can be normally decoded; and
Extracting the setting parameters of the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code when it is determined that the decoding can be normally performed. In a computer program that can be executed by a barcode symbol reader that reads a feature parameter related to a feature of a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code to be read from an image, and detects and decodes the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code,
The bar code symbol reader;
An acquisition means for acquiring an image including at least one one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code;
Display means for displaying the acquired image;
On the image including at least one one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code, a tuning area for extracting a setting parameter of a setting item related to the feature of the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code is designated as one one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code. Area designation accepting means for accepting the code so as to surround it,
Setting parameter input receiving means for partially receiving the input of the setting parameter;
Detecting means for detecting the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code in a tuning region that has received a designation;
Determining means for determining whether or not the detected one-dimensional code or two-dimensional code can be normally decoded; and when the determining means determines that it can be normally decoded, the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code A computer program which functions as an extracting means for extracting a setting parameter of a dimension code.