JP2013138757A - Code pattern recording device, gaming apparatus applied with the same, control method used for the same, and computer program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a code pattern recording device capable of improving design characteristics of a recording medium.SOLUTION: A code pattern recording device is provided with a printer 16 which is capable of printing upon a character card KC, as optically readable optical information, a two-dimensional bar code QR which has been created in compliance with a predetermined specification so that information related to a game result is embedded, and which, on the basis of image data for printing the optical information upon the character card KC, prints the optical information upon the character card KC. In addition, the code pattern recording device generates, as optical recording data, post-conversion data for expressing a black/white-inverted two-dimensional bar code NB in which the two-dimensional bar code QR has been converted with a predetermined procedure, and outputs the post-conversion data to the printer 16 so that the black/white-inverted two-dimensional bar code NB will be printed upon the character card KC as optical information.

Description

  INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY The present invention is applied to a code pattern recording apparatus capable of recording a code pattern created in conformity with a predetermined standard so that predetermined information is embedded on a recording medium as optically readable optical information. The present invention relates to a game machine, a control method used therefor, and a computer program.

  There is a game machine that acquires predetermined information recorded on a recording medium and uses it in a game. As such a game machine, a character card is used as a recording medium, and a character printed on the character card is reproduced during the game based on character information included in a barcode on the character card. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1).

JP 2002-301264 A

  In a game machine such as Patent Document 1, a two-dimensional barcode including character information to be reproduced during a game is printed on a character card. Such a two-dimensional barcode is created in accordance with a predetermined standard. Accordingly, the size, shape, color scheme, and the like of the range in which the two-dimensional barcode is to be arranged are limited. That is, the character card design is restricted by the two-dimensional barcode.

  Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a code pattern recording apparatus capable of improving the design of a recording medium, a game machine to which the code pattern recording apparatus is applied, a control method used therefor, and a computer program.

  The code pattern recording apparatus of the present invention records a code pattern (QR) created according to a predetermined standard so that predetermined information is embedded in a recording medium (KC) as optically readable optical information. A possible code pattern recording apparatus, comprising: an optical information recording means (16) for recording the optical information on the recording medium based on optical recording data for recording the optical information on the recording medium; Conversion data generating means (15) for generating conversion data for recording a conversion code pattern (NB) in which the code pattern is converted by a predetermined procedure as the optical recording data; and the conversion as the optical information Data output means (15) for outputting the converted data to the optical information recording means so that a code pattern is recorded on the recording medium; Eteiru.

  According to the present invention, the conversion code pattern is recorded as optical information on the recording medium. The conversion code pattern is a code pattern converted by a predetermined procedure. That is, a code pattern can be obtained by converting the conversion code pattern by a procedure reverse to the predetermined procedure. Thereby, predetermined information can also be obtained from the conversion code pattern. That is, a conversion code pattern can be used instead of a code pattern as a medium in which predetermined information is embedded. Since the conversion code pattern does not conform to a predetermined standard in the first place, the conversion code pattern is not limited to the predetermined standard. Therefore, various modes can be adopted as conversion code patterns such as size, color scheme, and shape. As a result, the position, size, shape, and the like of the area where the conversion code pattern should be arranged can be variously changed, so that the design of the recording medium can be improved.

  The conversion data may be generated in any way. For example, in one aspect of the code pattern recording apparatus of the present invention, the code pattern recording device further includes code pattern data generating means (15) for generating code pattern data for recording the code pattern on the recording medium, wherein the converted data generating means is The conversion data may be generated by converting the code pattern data generated by the code pattern data generation means according to a predetermined procedure.

  In one aspect of the code pattern recording apparatus of the present invention, based on the conversion code pattern recorded on the recording medium, reverse conversion means for performing reverse conversion for returning the conversion code pattern to the code pattern before conversion (15) and information acquisition means (15) for acquiring the predetermined information embedded in the code pattern based on the code pattern returned by the reverse conversion of the reverse conversion means. Also good. In this case, the conversion code pattern recorded on the recording medium is returned to a code pattern conforming to a predetermined standard, and predetermined information is acquired based on the code pattern. Thereby, both recording of the conversion code pattern on the recording medium and acquisition of information included in the recorded conversion code pattern can be realized. That is, it is possible to realize improvement in design of the recording medium and utilization of predetermined information included in the recording medium through the conversion code pattern.

  Various means may be employed as the inverse conversion means. For example, in one aspect of the code pattern recording apparatus of the present invention, a lens (L) that can optically execute the reverse conversion may be employed as the reverse conversion means. Alternatively, a filter (70) capable of optically executing the inverse transformation may be employed as the inverse transformation means.

  Moreover, what conforms to various standards may be employ | adopted as a code pattern. For example, a two-dimensional barcode may be employed as the code pattern, and a converted two-dimensional barcode obtained by converting the two-dimensional barcode according to a predetermined procedure may be employed as the conversion code pattern. Further, in this aspect, a black-and-white inverted two-dimensional barcode in which a monochrome color scheme used for the two-dimensional barcode is inverted may be employed as the converted two-dimensional barcode. The two-dimensional barcode includes a white portion used as a base and a black portion used as a portion including information. Further, the white color of the opposite color is further used around the two-dimensional barcode in order to emphasize the black portion including information. On the other hand, white is easy to reflect light. For this reason, depending on the position of the luminaire or the like, the white part for emphasizing the black part may reflect light, which may prevent the black part from being read. According to this aspect, a black and white inverted two-dimensional barcode in which white and black are inverted is used as the conversion code pattern. That is, black is colored in the base, and white is colored in the portion including the information. Black tends to suppress reflection of light compared to white. That is, in this case, while the base and the surrounding black part suppress reflection of light, the white part including information is emphasized by the black part, so that the reading accuracy of the information indicated by the white part can be improved.

  Various means may be adopted as the optical information recording means. For example, in one aspect of the code pattern recording apparatus of the present invention, a printer (16) that prints the optical information on the recording medium is employed as the optical information recording means, and the optical information is used as the recording medium. A card (KC) on which is printed may be adopted.

  The game machine of the present invention is one in which the above-described code pattern recording device is applied and information relating to a game result is adopted as the predetermined information. In this case, a game machine that can improve the design of the recording medium can be realized.

  According to the control method of the present invention, a code pattern (QR) created in accordance with a predetermined standard so that predetermined information is embedded can be recorded on a recording medium (KC) as optically readable optical information. A code pattern recording apparatus comprising: an optical information recording means (16) for recording the optical information on the recording medium based on optical recording data for recording the optical information on the recording medium. A conversion data generation step of generating conversion data for recording a conversion code pattern (NB) obtained by converting the code pattern in a predetermined procedure as the optical recording data in a computer (15) incorporated in a code pattern recording apparatus And the optical information recording means stores the conversion data so that the conversion code pattern is recorded on the recording medium as the optical information. A data output step of outputting the data, but to a run.

  Also, the computer program for the code pattern recording apparatus of the present invention records a code pattern (QR) created in accordance with a predetermined standard as optical information that can be optically read so that predetermined information is embedded. A code pattern recording apparatus capable of recording on a medium (KC), wherein the optical information records the optical information on the recording medium based on optical recording data for recording the optical information on the recording medium. A computer (15) incorporated in a code pattern recording apparatus having a recording means (16) is used to record a conversion code pattern (NB) obtained by converting the code pattern in a predetermined procedure as the optical recording data. Conversion data generation means for generating data, and the conversion code pattern recorded as the optical information on the recording medium As, in which is configured to function as a data output means for outputting the converted data to the optical information recording means. By executing the control method or the computer program of the present invention, the code pattern recording apparatus of the present invention can be realized.

  In addition, in the above description, in order to make an understanding of this invention easy, the reference sign of the accompanying drawing was attached in parenthesis, but this invention is not limited to the form of illustration by it.

  As described above, according to the present invention, a conversion code pattern can be used instead of a code pattern as a medium in which predetermined information is embedded. Since the conversion code pattern is not limited to a predetermined standard, the position, size, shape, and the like of the area where the conversion code pattern is to be arranged can be variously changed. Thereby, the design property of a recording medium can be improved.

The figure which shows schematically the external appearance of the game machine to which the code pattern recording device which concerns on one form of this invention was applied. The functional block diagram of a game machine. The figure which shows an example of the character card produced with a game machine. The figure which shows an example of a conversion 2D barcode. The functional block diagram of a game control part. The figure which shows an example of the flowchart of a conversion process routine. The figure which shows an example of the flowchart of a reverse conversion process routine. The figure which shows the 1st modification of a conversion 2D barcode. The figure which shows the 2nd modification of a conversion two-dimensional barcode. The figure which shows the 3rd modification of a conversion 2D barcode. The figure for demonstrating optical inversion.

  Hereinafter, a game machine to which a code pattern recording apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing an appearance of a game machine to which a code pattern recording apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied. As shown in FIG. 1, the game machine 1 includes a housing 2. A control panel 3, a monitor 4, and a speaker 5 are provided on the top of the housing 2. The monitor 4 is disposed above the control panel 3. The speaker 5 is disposed further above the monitor 4. In addition to the control panel 3, the game machine 1 is provided with various input devices and output devices included in a normal business game machine such as a volume operation switch, a power switch, and a power lamp. In FIG. 1, these are not shown.

  The control panel 3 is provided with a direction selection operation unit 8 that can select a direction, a button 9 that can be used for determination, a barcode reader 10, and a coin slot 11. The barcode reader 10 is configured to read optical information such as image information and character information and to output a signal corresponding to the read result. A character card KC as a recording medium is inserted into the barcode reader 10. The character card KC is used as a medium for recording information necessary for reproducing a character such as a monster used in the game during the game. Various optical information such as a two-dimensional barcode, characters, and other images are printed on the character card KC as information necessary for reproduction during the game and information indicating the character to be reproduced. That is, the barcode reader 10 reads the optical information printed on these character cards KC. A card discharge port 12 and a coin discharge port 13 are provided on the front surface of the housing 2. The card discharge port 12 is used for discharging the character card KC printed inside the housing 2. In addition, the control panel 3 is provided with various operation units such as buttons that can be used for determining the operation, etc., but these are not shown.

  With reference to FIG. 2, the structure of the game machine 1 is further demonstrated. FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of the game machine 1. Inside the housing 2 of the game machine 1, a control unit 15 as a computer and a printer 16 as optical information recording means are provided. The printer 16 is used for printing the character card KC. The printer 16 is configured to be capable of color printing.

  The monitor 4, control panel 3, speaker 5, barcode reader 10, and printer 16 are all connected to the control unit 15. The control unit 15 includes a game control unit 17 as a control subject, a display control unit 18 that operates according to an output from the game control unit 17, and an audio output control unit 19. The game control unit 17 is configured as a unit combining a microprocessor and various peripheral devices such as an internal storage device (for example, ROM and RAM) necessary for the operation of the microprocessor.

  The display control unit 18 draws an image corresponding to the image data supplied from the game control unit 17 in the frame buffer, and outputs a video signal corresponding to the drawn image to the monitor 4, whereby a predetermined signal is displayed on the monitor 4. Display an image. The audio output control unit 19 generates an audio reproduction signal corresponding to the audio reproduction data given from the game control unit 17 and outputs the audio reproduction signal to the speaker 5 to reproduce predetermined audio (including music) from the speaker 5. Let

  An external storage device 21 is connected to the game control unit 17. As the external storage device 21, a storage medium that can hold the storage without power supply, such as an optical storage medium such as a DVDROM or a CDROM, or a nonvolatile semiconductor memory such as an EEPROM is used.

  The external storage device 21 stores a game program 22 and game data 23. The game program 22 is a computer program necessary for executing a monster training game in accordance with a predetermined procedure on the game machine 1.

  On the other hand, the game data 23 is various data used when the game machine 1 executes a monster training game based on the game program. As such data, the game data 23 includes data such as image data 28 and sound effect data 29, for example. The sound effect data 29 is data in which a plurality of types of sound effects to be output from the speaker 5 according to the player's operation or game situation are recorded in association with a unique code for each sound effect.

  The image data 28 is data for displaying on the monitor 4 a background image in the game screen, various objects, icons, characters to appear in the game, and the like. Data for displaying each character included in the image data 28 is associated with a unique code for each displayable character. Further, the image data 28 includes format data for displaying a format image corresponding to a fixed portion of the character card KC to be printed. The game data 23 includes various other data, but the illustration is omitted.

  Next, a monster training game executed on the game machine 1 will be described. In the game, the player executes monster training. Specifically, the monster is trained by causing the monster to be trained to fight other monsters or responding to events during the game. In monsters, growth increases in strength and changes in characteristics. In addition, by combining a plurality of monsters, a new monster having new characteristics and the like is generated.

  The monster to be raised can be selected in the game. Further, the character card KC can be used for a monster training game. Specifically, by reading the information on the character card KC into the game machine 1 through the barcode reader 10, the monster defined by the character card KC is reproduced during the game. The monster of the character card KC reproduced during the game can be selected as a breeding target.

  The player can print the monster cultivated through the game through the printer 16 as a new character card KC. In other words, a monster that has grown through battles with other monsters or a monster that has been newly synthesized and generated can be created as a new character card KC. This character card KC can be used in the next game. Therefore, the character card can be used as a record of the training result, and one character (Monster) can be continuously trained.

  In this way, it is possible to continuously cultivate monsters or generate new monsters using the character card KC. And since the game result is reflected in this character card KC, it is hard to generate the thing of the same content elsewhere. Therefore, an original character card KC that does not exist elsewhere can be created.

  Next, the character card KC created by the game machine 1 will be described. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the character card KC created by the game machine 1. The character card KC is generated by arranging various information at each position in the format defined by the format data. Specifically, the format portion defined by the format data is fixedly set, while various information is arranged in the changeable area in the format based on information about the game result as predetermined information. That is, according to the game result, various information is arranged in the changeable area in the format, so that the character card KC corresponding to the game result is generated. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3, the character card KC has a basic information area SI, a bar code information area BI, a character image area as changeable areas in which various types of information should be arranged according to the game result. CI and feature information area FI are included.

  In the basic information area SI, information on the name of the player, information on the name of the character defined by each card, and status information indicating the hit point (HP), attack point (AT), special point (SP), etc. of the character. It is included. In the character image area CI, a character image KG defined by each card is displayed. In the feature information area FI, there are information on options (techniques) that can be executed in the game when the character defined in each card is used in the game, information on the special technique, and a card number indicating the ID of each card. Contains information.

  In the barcode information area BI, a two-dimensional barcode QR as a code pattern conforming to a predetermined standard is displayed. The two-dimensional barcode QR is used to reproduce the character defined by each card during the game. Specifically, the two-dimensional barcode QR is used for reading with a card reader of a game machine. For this reason, all information for defining the character included in the character card KC is embedded in the two-dimensional barcode QR. That is, the two-dimensional barcode QR includes information in each of the basic information area SI, the character image area CI, and the feature information area FI. In addition, each piece of information included in the two-dimensional barcode QR matches each piece of information printed on the character card KC.

  Also, the barcode information area BI may display a converted two-dimensional barcode as a conversion code pattern obtained by converting the two-dimensional barcode QR according to a predetermined procedure. That is, the game machine 1 can print through the printer 16 the character card KC including the converted two-dimensional barcode generated by converting the two-dimensional barcode QR. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a character card KC in which a black and white inverted two-dimensional barcode NB in a state where the black and white of the two-dimensional barcode QR is inverted is used as an example of such a converted two-dimensional barcode. Originally, the two-dimensional barcode QR is configured so that a portion including information (portion forming a code pattern) is black and the other base portion is white. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 4, the black and white inverted two-dimensional barcode NB is compared with the two-dimensional barcode QR in FIG. 3 in that the white portion constituting the two-dimensional barcode QR is black and the black portion is white. , Each is inverted. That is, the portion that should contain information by forming a code pattern is white, and the other base portion is black.

  This color inversion also occurs in the barcode information area BI. As shown in FIG. 3, when the two-dimensional barcode QR is used, white is colored around a portion other than the two-dimensional barcode QR in the barcode information area BI, that is, around the two-dimensional barcode QR. Yes. Thereby, since the black portion of the two-dimensional barcode QR is emphasized, the reading accuracy with the barcode reader 10 is improved. On the other hand, since the black and white of the two-dimensional barcode QR is reversed in the black and white inverted two-dimensional barcode NB, white is colored in the portion that should contain information by forming a code pattern. Therefore, if white is colored around the black-and-white inverted two-dimensional barcode NB, a portion that should contain information cannot be identified. For this reason, as shown in FIG. 4, black is colored around the black-and-white inverted two-dimensional barcode NB, that is, the portion other than the black-and-white inverted two-dimensional barcode NB in the barcode information area BI. Thereby, the black and white inverted two-dimensional barcode NB is emphasized.

  Also, the black and white inverted two-dimensional barcode NB shown in FIG. 4 is converted so that the black and white of the two-dimensional barcode QR shown in FIG. 3 is inverted. Therefore, the black and white inverted two-dimensional barcode NB includes the same information as the two-dimensional barcode QR. That is, the black-and-white inverted two-dimensional barcode NB includes information in each of the basic information area SI, the character image area CI, and the feature information area FI, like the two-dimensional barcode QR. However, the black and white inverted two-dimensional barcode NB does not comply with a predetermined standard. That is, in the same procedure as the two-dimensional barcode QR, information included in the black and white inverted two-dimensional barcode NB cannot be acquired. For this reason, the black-and-white inverted two-dimensional barcode NB is inversely converted by the game machine 1 so as to return to the two-dimensional barcode QR once. Each information included in the barcode NB is acquired. Processing for generating the black and white inverted two-dimensional barcode NB and processing for returning it to the two-dimensional barcode QR will be described later.

  Next, a specific configuration for generating a converted two-dimensional barcode, such as a black and white inverted two-dimensional barcode, and reading each information from the barcode will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram of the game control unit 17 related to generation of a converted two-dimensional barcode and acquisition of information from the converted two-dimensional barcode. As shown in FIG. 5, the game control unit 17 includes an inverse conversion unit 61, a reproduction unit 62, a data generation unit 64, and a conversion unit 65. The inverse conversion unit 61, the reproduction unit 62, the data generation unit 64, and the conversion unit 65 are all logical devices realized by a combination of computer hardware and a computer program.

  The data generation unit 64 acquires game result information necessary for creating the character card KC, such as information in each of the basic information area SI, the character image area CI, and the feature information area FI. Then, the data generation unit 64 generates image data as code pattern data for expressing the two-dimensional barcode QR including the acquired game result information. On the other hand, the conversion unit 65 acquires the image data generated by the data generation unit 64. Then, the converting unit 65 generates post-conversion image data as conversion data for expressing the converted two-dimensional barcode based on the acquired image data. Specifically, the conversion unit 65 generates post-conversion image data for expressing the converted two-dimensional barcode, such as a black and white inverted two-dimensional barcode NB, by converting the acquired image data according to a predetermined procedure. . The generated converted image data is output to the printer 16 so that the converted two-dimensional barcode is printed on the character card KC based on the image data. When printing the two-dimensional barcode QR, the conversion unit 65 outputs the image data acquired from the data generation unit 64 to the printer 16 as it is without performing conversion. In this case, a two-dimensional barcode QR is printed based on the image data.

  On the other hand, the inverse conversion unit 61 uses the output signal of the barcode reader 10 to generate image data corresponding to the converted two-dimensional barcode (for example, black and white inverted two-dimensional barcode NB) printed on the character card KC, that is, The converted image data for expressing the converted two-dimensional barcode NB is generated. Then, the inverse conversion unit 61 generates image data for expressing the two-dimensional barcode QR conforming to a predetermined standard based on the generated converted image data. Specifically, the inverse conversion unit 61 generates image data corresponding to the two-dimensional barcode QR by performing inverse conversion on the converted image data in a procedure reverse to that of the conversion unit 65. Further, the inverse transform unit 61 acquires various types of information included in the two-dimensional barcode QR expressed by the image data based on the generated image data. Note that when the image data generated based on the output signal of the barcode reader 10 corresponds to the two-dimensional barcode QR, the inverse conversion unit 61 does not perform the inverse conversion. Whether or not the generated image data corresponds to the two-dimensional barcode QR is determined based on whether or not information can be acquired based on the generated image data, for example.

  The reproduction unit 62 acquires various types of information included in the two-dimensional barcode QR acquired by the inverse conversion unit 61. Based on the acquired information, the reproduction unit 62 performs various processes for reproducing the character recorded on the character card KC during the game. Further, the reproduction unit 62 outputs the processing result as necessary. Thus, a character card KC on which a converted two-dimensional barcode NB including various information is printed is first created. In addition, various information included in the converted two-dimensional barcode NB is for reproducing a character corresponding to the game result during the game. On the other hand, when acquiring information from the converted two-dimensional barcode NB, the converted two-dimensional barcode NB is once returned to the two-dimensional barcode QR so that various types of information contained therein can be acquired. Then, various information is acquired based on the two-dimensional barcode QR, and the character recorded on the character card KC is reproduced during the game based on the acquired various information.

  Next, a conversion process routine and an inverse conversion process routine executed by the game control unit 17 will be described. The game control unit 17 executes a conversion processing routine to generate a converted two-dimensional barcode such as a black and white inverted two-dimensional barcode NB. In addition, the game control unit 17 executes an inverse conversion processing routine to return the converted two-dimensional barcode to the two-dimensional barcode QR conforming to the original standard. In addition, the game control unit 17 performs a monster breeding game such as a process for creating a character card KC and a process for reproducing a character during the game based on information stored in the character card KC. Various well-known processes necessary for the above are executed, but detailed description thereof is omitted.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a flowchart of a conversion processing routine. The game control unit 17 executes the routine of FIG. 6 through the conversion unit 65. Further, the conversion unit 65 executes the routine of FIG. 6 every time the game is finished or when a card creation instruction is executed by the player, for example. In addition, for example, a converted two-dimensional barcode may be printed on the character card KC in principle unless a designation by the player is executed.

  When the routine of FIG. 6 is started, the conversion unit 65 first acquires image data in step S11. Specifically, the conversion unit 65 acquires the image data generated by the data generation unit 64 so as to include various types of information to be recorded on the character card KC. In subsequent step S12, the conversion unit 65 converts the image data acquired in step S11 according to a predetermined procedure, and generates post-conversion image data. This conversion is executed so that, for example, image data for expressing the two-dimensional barcode QR is converted into image data for expressing the black-and-white inverted two-dimensional barcode NB. Then, image data for expressing the black and white inverted two-dimensional barcode NB is generated as the converted image data. In the next step S13, the conversion unit 65 outputs the converted image data generated in step S12 and ends the current routine. The converted image data output by the routine of FIG. 6 is used for printing the character card KC. As a result, the converted two-dimensional barcode such as the black-and-white inverted two-dimensional barcode NB is printed in the barcode information area BI of the character card KC.

  On the other hand, FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a flowchart of an inverse conversion processing routine. The game control unit 17 executes the routine of FIG. 7 through the inverse conversion unit 61. Further, the inverse transform unit 61 executes the routine of FIG. 7 at a predetermined cycle. Alternatively, when the barcode reader 10 detects the character card KC, or when reading of the character card KC is performed, such as when the player instructs the reading of the character card KC, the inverse conversion unit 61 performs FIG. Run the routine.

  When the routine of FIG. 7 is started, the inverse conversion unit 61 first determines in step S21 whether or not there is an image read by the barcode reader 10 with reference to the output signal of the barcode reader 10. If this determination result is a negative result, that is, if the barcode reader 10 is not reading an image, the inverse conversion unit 61 skips the subsequent processing and ends the current routine. On the other hand, when the determination result is a positive result, if there is an image read by the barcode reader 10, the inverse conversion unit 61 proceeds to step S22.

  In step S <b> 22, the inverse conversion unit 61 refers to the output signal of the barcode reader 10 and generates image data for representing the image read by the barcode reader 10. In a succeeding step S23, it is determined whether or not the information on the character card KC can be acquired from the image data generated in the step S22. Whether or not information can be acquired in step S22 is executed according to a procedure based on a predetermined standard. That is, if the image data generated in step S22 corresponds to the two-dimensional barcode QR and there is no problem with the reading accuracy of the two-dimensional barcode QR by the barcode reader 10, the inverse conversion unit 61 displays the image data. Information on the character card KC can be acquired from the data. That is, the determination result in step S23 is affirmative. On the other hand, if the image data generated in step S22 corresponds to the converted two-dimensional barcode NB, that is, the converted image data, information cannot be acquired by a procedure based on a predetermined standard. Further, even when there is a problem in the reading accuracy of the two-dimensional barcode QR by the barcode reader 10, various information included in the two-dimensional barcode QR cannot be acquired correctly. In these cases, the determination result in step S23 is negative.

  If the determination result in step S23 is affirmative, the inverse conversion unit 61 skips steps S24 and S25 and proceeds to step S26. On the other hand, if the determination result of step S23 is negative, the inverse conversion unit 61 proceeds to step S24. In step S24, the inverse conversion unit 61 performs inverse conversion on the image data acquired in step S22. Specifically, the inverse conversion unit 61 performs the conversion performed in step S12 in FIG. 6 as the reverse conversion in step S22 so that the converted image data returns to the image data for expressing the two-dimensional barcode QR. Performs the reverse conversion.

  In the next step S25, the inverse conversion unit 61 determines again whether or not information can be acquired based on the image data after the inverse conversion in step S24. Whether or not information can be acquired also in this step is executed according to a procedure based on a predetermined standard. However, the converted image data is returned to the image data for expressing the two-dimensional barcode QR by the inverse conversion in step S24. Therefore, if the information cannot be acquired in step S23 because it is the converted image data, the information can be acquired in step S24. That is, the image data for which information cannot be acquired even in step S25 is image data when there is a problem in the image reading accuracy by the barcode reader 10. For this reason, when the determination result of step S25 is a negative result, that is, when information cannot be acquired, the inverse conversion unit 61 returns to step S21 and executes the processing after step S21 again. On the other hand, if the determination result in step S25 is a positive result, that is, if information can be acquired, the inverse conversion unit 61 proceeds to step S26.

  In step S26, the inverse conversion unit 61 acquires information on the character card KC from the image data generated in step S23 or the two-dimensional barcode QR expressed by the image data after the inverse conversion in step S24. In the next step S27, the inverse conversion unit 61 outputs the information on the character card KC acquired in step S26 and ends the current routine. The information output by the routine of FIG. 7 is used for reproducing the character of the character card KC during the game. Thereby, necessary information is acquired from the non-standard converted two-dimensional barcode such as the black and white inverted two-dimensional barcode NB in the character card KC, and is used for the game. In addition, the character card KC may include information for determining the two-dimensional barcode QR and the converted two-dimensional barcode NB. In this case, the process of step S23 in FIG. 7 can be omitted by referring to this information.

  As described above, according to this embodiment, information corresponding to the game result is embedded in the converted two-dimensional barcode NB and recorded on the character card KC. The information embedded in the converted two-dimensional barcode NB is returned to the two-dimensional barcode QR and can be used for the next and subsequent games. That is, the converted two-dimensional barcode NB can be used as a medium for recording information corresponding to the game result, instead of the two-dimensional barcode QR. Moreover, various aspects can be adopted as the converted two-dimensional barcode according to the design, space, and the like. Thereby, since the freedom degree of a layout can be improved, not only the design property of barcode information area | region BI but the design property of the whole character card KC can be improved. Further, when the black and white inverted two-dimensional barcode NB is used as the converted two-dimensional barcode, black can be colored on the background of the barcode information area BI. Black can suppress reflection of light compared to white. Therefore, in this case, the reading accuracy of the black and white inverted two-dimensional barcode NB by the barcode reader 10 can be improved as compared with the case of the two-dimensional barcode QR. And the interest property of a game can be improved more by these.

  In the above embodiment, the control unit 15 functions as conversion data generation means and data output means by executing the routine of FIG. 6 through the game control unit 17. Further, the control unit 15 functions as a code pattern data generation means through the data generation unit 64 of the game control unit 17. Furthermore, when the control unit 15 executes the routine of FIG. 7 through the game control unit 17, it functions as an inverse conversion unit and an information acquisition unit.

  This invention is not limited to the above-mentioned form, It can implement with a suitable form. In the above-described embodiment, the black and white inverted two-dimensional barcode NB is adopted as an example of the converted two-dimensional barcode. However, the converted two-dimensional barcode is not limited to such a form. For example, it may be converted so that green is displayed on the white portion and red is displayed on the black portion. In such a case, information can be acquired if color tone correction that matches the color change is executed as inverse conversion.

  Further, the converted two-dimensional barcode is not limited to such a form in which the color scheme changes. Another example of the converted two-dimensional barcode will be described with reference to FIGS. 8A to 8C. FIG. 8A is a diagram illustrating a first modification of the converted two-dimensional barcode. As shown in FIG. 8A, the converted two-dimensional barcode NBa according to the first modification is converted so as to extend the two-dimensional barcode QR in the left-right direction. That is, the aspect ratio changes compared to the original two-dimensional barcode QR. On the other hand, FIG. 8B is a diagram illustrating a second modification of the converted two-dimensional barcode. As shown in FIG. 8B, the converted two-dimensional barcode NBb according to the second modification is obtained by extending the two-dimensional barcode QR so as to form a circle. As a result, the original quadrangular shape is converted into a circular shape (partially cut off). Further, FIG. 8C is a diagram showing a third modification of the converted two-dimensional barcode. As shown in FIG. 8C, the converted two-dimensional barcode NBc according to the third modified example is extended to a fan shape so as to form a circle, and is further extended downward by one corner. It is a thing. That is, it is converted so that a plurality of stretching methods are combined. Thus, various forms including a change in shape may be employed as the converted two-dimensional barcode.

  In the above-described embodiment, the control unit 15 functions as an inverse conversion unit through the routine of FIG. However, the inverse conversion means is not limited to such a form. For example, the reverse conversion of the code pattern may be realized optically. FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining optical inverse transformation. As shown in FIG. 9, a lens L may be provided in the barcode reader 10A. The lens L may be configured to inversely convert the converted two-dimensional barcode. For example, when the converted two-dimensional barcode NBa according to the first modification is adopted as the converted two-dimensional barcode, the lens L has an extension ratio of the converted two-dimensional barcode NBa according to the first modification. Accordingly, the converted two-dimensional barcode NBa according to the first modification may be formed in a shape that contracts in the extending direction (left-right direction). In this case, since the aspect ratio of the converted two-dimensional barcode NBa according to the first modification is returned to the original ratio by passing the lens L, the converted two-dimensional barcode NBa according to the first modification is set to a predetermined value. It is possible to return to the two-dimensional barcode QR that conforms to the standard of Thus, the optical reverse conversion can be realized by the lens L that can execute the reverse conversion according to the converted shape.

  Furthermore, instead of the lens L, a filter 70 may be employed as a means for optically performing reverse conversion. For example, the filter 70 may be formed so as to generate the same function as the lens L. In this case, as shown in FIG. 9, optical reverse conversion is possible in the same manner as the lens L by being arranged between the character card KC and the barcode reader 10 </ b> A. Alternatively, the filter 70 may be configured to be able to perform color tone correction. In this case, the converted two-dimensional barcode converted so as to change the color scheme is returned to the original color scheme of the two-dimensional barcode QR with the filter 70 interposed. Thus, the filter 70 or the lens L may be employed as means for executing color tone correction as inverse conversion.

  In the above-described embodiment, the two-dimensional barcode QR is adopted as the code pattern. However, the code pattern is not limited to such a form. As long as it conforms to a predetermined standard so that predetermined information is embedded, various modes may be adopted as a code pattern such as a barcode.

  In the above-described embodiment, the control unit 15 first generates image data for expressing the two-dimensional barcode QR, and then converted image data is generated based on the image data. That is, code pattern data is first generated, and conversion data is generated based on the code pattern data. However, the generation of the conversion data is not limited to such a form. For example, the generation of code pattern data may be omitted. That is, conversion data for expressing a conversion code pattern may be directly generated without generating code pattern data.

  In the above-described embodiment, the code pattern recording apparatus is configured to be able to both generate and read the conversion code pattern. However, the code pattern recording apparatus is not limited to such a form. If the conversion (or inverse conversion) procedure is standardized, it is not necessary to realize both generation of the conversion code pattern and reading of the conversion code pattern by one apparatus. Therefore, for example, the inverse conversion unit and the information acquisition unit may be omitted. Further, there may be a plurality of standards for conversion (or inverse conversion) procedures. If information capable of identifying these standards is given, the procedure to be executed as the inverse transformation can be identified.

  In the above-described embodiment, the example applied to the game machine 1 is described as one embodiment of the code pattern recording device. However, the code pattern recording apparatus is not limited to such a form. The code pattern recording apparatus may be realized in an appropriate form as long as it uses the code pattern as an information transmission medium. For example, the code pattern recording apparatus may be applied to an advertisement printing apparatus for printing a code pattern in which address information of a web site is embedded. Further, the code pattern recording apparatus may adopt an appropriate form depending on the application form, for example, the speaker 5 is omitted.

  Further, the optical information recording means is not limited to the printer 16. For example, when a recording medium that can display information using magnetism, such as reversing a magnetic reversal element, is applied to the recording medium by means other than printing, such as reversing the magnetic reversal element. A conversion code pattern may be recorded.

1 game machine 16 printer (optical information recording means)
15 Control unit (computer, conversion data generation means, data output means, code pattern data generation means, inverse conversion means, information acquisition means)
70 Filter KC Character card (recording medium)
QR Two-dimensional barcode (code pattern)
NB Black and white inverted two-dimensional barcode (conversion code pattern)
L lens

Claims (11)

A code pattern recording device capable of recording on a recording medium as optical information that can be optically read a code pattern created in accordance with a predetermined standard so that predetermined information is embedded,
Optical information recording means for recording the optical information on the recording medium based on optical recording data for recording the optical information on the recording medium;
Conversion data generating means for generating conversion data for recording a conversion code pattern in which the code pattern is converted by a predetermined procedure as the optical recording data;
A code pattern recording apparatus comprising: data output means for outputting the conversion data to the optical information recording means so that the conversion code pattern is recorded on the recording medium as the optical information. . Code pattern data generating means for generating code pattern data for recording the code pattern on the recording medium;
The code pattern recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the conversion data generation unit generates the conversion data by converting the code pattern data generated by the code pattern data generation unit according to a predetermined procedure. Based on the conversion code pattern recorded on the recording medium, reverse conversion means for performing reverse conversion for returning the conversion code pattern to the code pattern before conversion;
The code according to claim 1, further comprising: an information acquisition unit that acquires the predetermined information embedded in the code pattern based on the code pattern returned by the reverse conversion of the reverse conversion unit. Pattern recording device.   The code pattern recording apparatus according to claim 3, wherein a lens capable of optically executing the reverse conversion is employed as the reverse conversion unit.   The code pattern recording apparatus according to claim 3, wherein a filter capable of optically executing the inverse transformation is employed as the inverse transformation means.   The two-dimensional barcode obtained by converting a two-dimensional barcode as the code pattern and the two-dimensional barcode converted according to a predetermined procedure as the conversion code pattern, respectively. The code pattern recording device according to item.   The code pattern recording apparatus according to claim 6, wherein a black-and-white inverted two-dimensional barcode in which a monochrome color scheme used for the two-dimensional barcode is inverted is adopted as the converted two-dimensional barcode. As the optical information recording means, a printer that prints the optical information on the recording medium is adopted,
The code pattern storage device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein a card on which the optical information is printed is employed as the recording medium. The code pattern recording device according to any one of claims 1 to 8 is applied,
A game machine in which information relating to a game result is adopted as the predetermined information. A code pattern recording apparatus capable of recording on a recording medium as optical information that can optically read a code pattern created in accordance with a predetermined standard so that predetermined information is embedded, wherein the optical information is In a computer incorporated in a code pattern recording apparatus provided with an optical information recording means for recording the optical information on the recording medium, based on optical recording data for recording on the recording medium,
A conversion data generation step for generating conversion data for recording a conversion code pattern in which the code pattern is converted by a predetermined procedure as the optical recording data;
And a data output step of outputting the conversion data to the optical information recording means so that the conversion code pattern is recorded on the recording medium as the optical information. A code pattern recording apparatus capable of recording on a recording medium as optical information that can optically read a code pattern created in accordance with a predetermined standard so that predetermined information is embedded, wherein the optical information is A computer incorporated in a code pattern recording apparatus comprising optical information recording means for recording the optical information on the recording medium based on optical recording data for recording on the recording medium;
As the optical recording data, conversion data generating means for generating conversion data for recording the conversion code pattern in which the code pattern is converted by a predetermined procedure, and the conversion code pattern as the optical information are recorded on the recording medium. A computer program for a code pattern recording apparatus configured to cause the optical information recording means to function as data output means for outputting the converted data so as to be recorded.

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