JP2014167791A - Portable information code reader - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a portable information code reader which allows a user to use both of his/her hands for an activity other than reading operation, can smoothly read an information code on a side to which the user face is oriented and is easily attached to the user's body.SOLUTION: A portable information code reader 1 has: an imaging part 23 for imaging an information code; a processing part for reading the information code picked up by the imaging part 23; a case 12 for holding the imaging part and the processing part; and a fitting part 60 provided integrally with the case 12 or as a separate body separated from the case 12 for fitting the case 12 onto the user's ear.

Description

  The present invention relates to a portable information code reader.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, portable information code readers that have been provided are generally of a type in which a user performs an operation of holding the device by hand and directing the information code to read the information code. However, in such a configuration that it is essential to hold by hand, there is a problem that one hand of the user cannot be used for other work, and it is difficult to improve workability.

JP-A-8-272484 Japanese Patent No. 3020943

  By the way, Patent Documents 1 and 2 disclose a configuration in which an information code can be read even if the user does not hold the device by hand. For example, a portable transaction terminal disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes a band 12 that fits on a user's head, an arm 22 extends from the band 12 to the front side of the face, and a glasses-like screen 34 is provided. Yes. A bar code reader 24 is provided above the screen 34. Further, the portable code reader disclosed in FIG. 1 of Patent Document 2 has a configuration in which a two-dimensional imaging unit 100 is fixed to a band 2 attached to the user's head in a bee-like shape.

  However, as shown in FIG. 1 of Patent Document 1 or FIG. 1 of Patent Document 2, the reader is completely fixed to the band and then the band is fitted on the user's head and attached. There is a problem that it is difficult to quickly and easily perform an operation of determining and mounting the reader more accurately so that the side facing the face is a reading area.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and it is easy for the user to use both hands for purposes other than reading work, and to determine the reading direction in conjunction with the movement of the user's face. It is another object of the present invention to provide a portable information code reader that can be easily worn on the body.

The first invention is an imaging unit that images an information code;
A processing unit that processes an image of the information code imaged by the imaging unit;
A case for holding the imaging unit and the processing unit;
An attachment part that is provided as a separate body from the case and attaches the imaging unit to the user in a configuration that images the side of the user facing the face,
It is provided with.

Moreover, 2nd invention is an imaging part which images an information code,
A processing unit that processes an image of the information code imaged by the imaging unit;
A case for holding the imaging unit and the processing unit;
An attachment portion that is provided integrally with the case or as a separate body, and attaches the case to at least one ear of a user;
It is provided with.

  According to the configuration of the first aspect, it is possible to attach the case holding the imaging unit and the processing unit so that the mounting unit faces the user's face. Accordingly, it is possible to perform a reading operation in accordance with the orientation of the face while attaching an imaging unit or the like to a portion other than the hand, and the user can easily use both hands for other purposes than the reading operation.

  In the configurations of claims 2 and 3, since the case holding the imaging unit and the processing unit can be attached to the ear, the movement of the face is interlocked with the movement of the user's face. The imaging direction can be determined. Furthermore, since the case can be attached to the ear, it is easy to wear even when other wearing tools (such as a helmet or glasses) are used.

  In the configuration of the fourth aspect, since the attachment portion is configured to be hung on the user's human body, the attachment portion can be easily attached to the user.

  According to the invention of claim 5, the case includes a reading port through which light from the information code can be introduced, and the attachment portion includes the case arranged in a lateral position of the user's face and the reading port on the front side of the user. The case is configured to attach the case to the user's ear. According to this configuration, the orientation of the user's face and the reading direction are easily linked well, and the information code arranged on the side facing the user's face can be read smoothly and smoothly.

  In the invention of claim 6, the case includes an extending part extending in a predetermined direction from the position of the attaching part, and the reading port is provided near the end of the extending part opposite to the attaching part. The part is configured to attach the case to the user's ear in such a configuration that the extending part extends at least from the user's ear to the front side. In this way, when the case is extended slightly ahead of the ear and the information code is read through the reading port on the end side, the user's face is excluded from the imaging area as much as possible, and the space in front of the face is further increased. It becomes easy to image widely.

  In the invention of claim 7, the attachment portion has an ear insertion portion to be inserted into the hole of the user's ear. According to this configuration, the case can be held using the ear hole. Furthermore, since the position of the attachment portion and the position of the ear hole can be accurately aligned, the position of the case can be determined accurately with reference to the ear hole.

  In the invention of claim 8, the attachment portion has an ear hook portion that is hung on the user's ear. According to this structure, it becomes easy to hold a case stably by a user's ear.

  In the invention of claim 9, the ear hooking part is detachable with respect to a part of the case or a connecting part connected to the case, and is used for a part of the case or the connecting part connected to the case. A first fixing part to which the ear hooking part should be fixed when attaching the ear hooking part to the left ear of the user, and a second fixing to which the ear hooking part should be fixed when attaching the ear hooking part to the right ear of the user A portion is formed. According to this configuration, the case can be attached to the right ear and the left ear of the user, and when attaching to each ear, the ear hooking portion can be fixed at a position corresponding to the ear.

  In the invention of claim 10, the ear hooking portion is provided so as to be displaceable with respect to a part of the case or a connecting portion connected to the case. According to this structure, it becomes easy to adjust the position of the ear hook according to how the user wears it.

  In the invention of claim 11, the case is provided with a reading port through which light from the information code can be introduced, and the case is attached to the user's left ear side even when the case is attached to the user's left ear side. Even if it is attached to the ear side, the case can be attached to the user's ear with the reading opening facing the front side of the user. According to this configuration, the case is attached to the right ear side of the user. However, even when attached to the left ear side, the orientation of the user's face and the reading direction can be linked well.

  In the twelfth aspect of the present invention, the illumination light source for irradiating the illumination light and the marker light irradiating portion for irradiating the marker light are provided, and the attachment portion is provided even when the case is attached to the left ear side of the user Even when attached to the right ear side, the case can be attached to the user's ear in a configuration in which the irradiation light from the illumination light source and the marker light from the marker light irradiation unit are irradiated to the front side of the user. According to this configuration, even when the case is attached to the right ear side of the user or the left ear side, illumination light and marker light can be irradiated to the front side of the user on the reading side.

In the invention of claim 13, a sensor part is provided inside or outside the case,
The external processing unit provided outside the processing unit or the case is configured to decode the information code on condition that a predetermined detection result is obtained at least by the sensor unit. In this configuration, until the predetermined detection result is detected by the sensor unit, the decoding process by the processing unit or the external processing unit can be stopped to save power, and the predetermined detection result is generated at the sensor unit. It is possible to return to the decryption start state by taking action.

  In the invention of claim 14, the sensor unit is capable of detecting a predetermined state in which the mounting unit is mounted on the user's ear, and the external processing unit provided outside the processing unit or the case is provided by the sensor unit. The information code is decoded on condition that a predetermined state is detected. In this configuration, power can be saved by stopping the decoding process by the processing unit or the external processing unit until the mounting unit is mounted on the user's ear, and when the mounting unit is mounted on the ear, It is possible to return to the decoding start state.

  In the invention of claim 15, the sensor unit has an imaging unit, and the imaging unit is capable of continuously or intermittently imaging images outside the case, and is provided outside the processing unit or case. The external processing unit is configured to decode the information code after the condition is satisfied on the condition that the image captured by the imaging unit is in a predetermined state. In this configuration, until the image captured by the imaging unit is in a predetermined state, the decoding process by the processing unit or the external processing unit can be stopped to save power, and the image in the predetermined state is captured by the imaging unit. It is possible to return to the decoding start state by taking a countermeasure so as to be imaged.

  In the invention of claim 16, the illumination light source and the marker light irradiation are provided on condition that a predetermined start condition is established in at least one of the illumination light source that irradiates the illumination light and the marker light irradiation unit that irradiates the marker light. An irradiation control unit that operates at least one of the units and starts irradiation of at least one of the illumination light and the marker light. In this configuration, it is possible to achieve further power saving without operating at least one of the illumination light source and the marker light irradiation unit until a predetermined start condition is satisfied in the sensor unit, and the predetermined start condition is satisfied. By responding in this way, it is possible to operate at least one of the illumination light source and the marker light irradiating unit to facilitate reading.

  In the invention of claim 17, a communication unit that communicates with an external device provided outside the case is provided, and the communication unit can transmit information to the external device or receive information from the external device. According to this configuration, since information can be exchanged with the external device, a part can be shared by the external device without having all the processing functions in the case. Therefore, it becomes easy to simplify the structure on the case side, which is advantageous in terms of miniaturization and weight reduction.

  In the invention of claim 18, a notification section for notifying a processing result in at least the processing section or an external processing section provided outside the case is provided in the case or a portion attached to the case. According to this configuration, the processing result in the processing unit or the external processing unit can be well transmitted to the user. In particular, since the notification is made near the ear, the notification is easily transmitted to the user reliably.

  In the invention of claim 19, the attachment portion has an ear insertion portion that is inserted into the ear hole of the user, and the ear insertion portion receives sound from the sound generation portion that emits sound or sound from the sound generation portion that emits sound. A deriving unit for deriving is provided. According to this configuration, the ear insertion portion can function not only as a member to be attached but also as an earphone. Further, with this mounting structure, the generated sound can be transmitted directly to the ear from the portion inserted into the ear, so that the content can be reliably transmitted to the user even with a small sound output. Such an effect becomes more prominent in cases where noise is assumed during use.

  The invention according to claim 20 is based on the decoding information obtained by decoding the information code by the processing unit or the external processing unit provided outside the case, and provides voice guidance for information to be dealt with after decoding the decoding information. It has a guide part. According to this configuration, it becomes easy for the user to respond quickly and appropriately after decoding the information code.

  According to the invention of claim 21, a cable is provided that is held by the case and electrically connected to an external device provided outside the case. The case is configured in a longitudinal shape, and one of the longitudinal directions of the case is provided. A mounting portion is provided near the cable, and the cable is led out of the case from one side in the short direction of the case on one side in the longitudinal direction of the case. According to this configuration, even if the case is pulled to some extent, a rotational force is unlikely to be generated in the case, so that the relative orientation of the case with respect to the user's face is easily maintained stably.

  According to the invention of claim 22, a cable is provided which is fixed to the case and pulled out from the case and electrically connected to an external device provided outside the case, and the attachment portion is one wall of the case. A cable support portion that supports the cable drawn from the case is formed at a position on the back side of the mounting portion on the wall portion opposite to the one wall portion of the case. In this configuration, even if the case is pulled to some extent, the cable is received on the back side of the attachment portion that becomes the rotation center portion, and a moment around the attachment portion is unlikely to occur, so the case is difficult to rotate. Therefore, the relative orientation of the case with respect to the user's face is easily maintained stably.

  In the invention of claim 23, an operation switch capable of external operation is provided at a position on the back side of the mounting portion on the wall portion on the opposite side of the wall portion where the mounting portion is provided in the case. In this configuration, since the operation switch is operated on the back side of the mounting portion serving as the rotation center portion, even if a pressing operation or the like is performed on the operation switch, the operation force generates a moment around the mounting portion. The case is difficult to rotate because it is difficult. Therefore, the relative orientation of the case with respect to the user's face is easily maintained stably.

In the invention of claim 24, the attachment portion has a detachable ear insertion portion to be inserted into the hole of the user's ear or a detachable ear hook portion to be hung on the user's ear, and at least the attachment An information notification unit is provided to notify information when the unit is removed from the case.
According to this configuration, the attachment portion is removed from the case, and for example, it can be easily used as a hand-held type. Further, even when the attachment portion is removed and used, information can be notified, and convenience is further enhanced.

  A twenty-fifth aspect of the invention includes a sound generation unit that emits a sound and a volume adjustment unit that adjusts the volume of the sound emitted from the sound generation unit. According to this configuration, the volume of the sound emitted from the information code reading device can be adjusted within the device.

  In the invention of claim 26, the attachment portion has a detachable ear insertion portion to be inserted into the hole of the user's ear or a detachable ear hook portion to be hung on the user's ear, and the attachment portion from the case After detaching, it is possible to attach another attachment member different from the removed attachment part to the case. According to this configuration, the mounting portion can be replaced with another part, and usability is further improved. In particular, it is more advantageous in terms of convenience if the mounting portion can be exchanged for each user, or if the mounting portion can be removed and replaced with another part having another function.

According to a twenty-seventh aspect of the present invention, an external processing unit provided outside the processing unit or the case includes a decoding unit that decodes data recorded in the information code imaged by the imaging unit. Then, a light source that irradiates light to the outside is assembled integrally with the case, and further, when the decoding result of the information code by the decoding unit is a predetermined success state, and a predetermined failure state that is not a predetermined success state And an irradiation state control unit that controls the irradiation state of light from the light source to a state according to the determination result by the determination unit.
According to this configuration, even when the case is attached to the user's body and the case is difficult to see directly, the user grasps the decoding result of the information code according to the light irradiation state from the light source. be able to.

In the invention of claim 28, the imaging unit is configured to image the outside of the case in a state where light is irradiated toward the outside of the case by the light source, and the decoding unit is irradiated to the outside of the case by the light source. The irradiation state control unit determines the irradiation state of the light from the light source by the determination unit after the decoding unit attempts to decode the information code. It is the structure which controls to the state according to a result.
According to this configuration, it is possible to notify the decoding result of the information code using the light source used at the time of image capturing by the image capturing unit, so that the device configuration can be easily simplified.

According to a twenty-ninth aspect of the present invention, the light source is configured as a light source separate from the light source, and includes an illumination light irradiation unit that emits light toward the outside of the case, and the imaging unit emits light toward the outside of the case by the illumination light irradiation unit. It is configured to image the outside of the case in the irradiated state, and the decoding unit is configured to decode the information code imaged by the imaging unit in a state where light is irradiated to the outside of the case by the illumination light irradiation unit, The irradiation state control unit is configured to control the irradiation state of the light from the light source to a state corresponding to the determination result by the determination unit after the decoding unit attempts to decode the information code.
In this configuration, since the decoding result of the information code can be notified using a light source different from the light source (illumination light irradiation unit) that irradiates illumination light at the time of imaging by the imaging unit, a light source suitable for notification is more It becomes easy to select freely.

In the invention of claim 30, the irradiation state control unit uses the determination unit to determine the time interval between the lighting time and the light-off time of the light from the light source when the determination unit determines that the predetermined successful state has occurred. It is configured to perform control that is different from the time interval of either the lighting time or light extinguishing time of light from the light source when it is determined as a predetermined failure state.
According to this configuration, the result of decoding the information code can be notified by adjusting the lighting time or light extinguishing time of the light from the light source, so that the hardware load is suppressed and notification is performed with simpler control. Is possible.

In a thirty-first aspect of the invention, the irradiation state control unit sets the first color irradiation state in which the light of the first color is emitted from the light source when the determination unit determines that the predetermined success state is reached. When it determines with a failure state, it becomes the structure set as the 2nd color irradiation state which irradiates the light of the 2nd color different from a 1st color from a light source.
According to this configuration, since the notification color in the predetermined success state and the notification color in the predetermined failure state are different, it becomes easier to grasp each state more reliably.

In the invention of claim 32, the irradiation state control unit determines the irradiation state of the light from the light source when the determination unit determines that either the predetermined success state or the predetermined failure state is the light from the light source. In a first display state in which predetermined information is displayed on the irradiation object to be irradiated, and when it is determined as one of the other states, the irradiation state of the light from the light source is different from the first display state. It is the composition which becomes a state.
According to this configuration, since information can be displayed to the outside at least in a predetermined success state or a predetermined failure state, the user is provided from the device even in a situation where it is difficult for the user to see the case. It becomes easy to grasp specific information.

In the invention of claim 33, the attachment portion comprises a right ear attachment portion attached to the user's right ear, a left ear attachment portion attached to the user's left ear, a right ear attachment portion, and a left ear attachment portion. And a connecting portion to be connected.
According to this configuration, since the attachment portion is attached to both ears, the stability at the time of wearing increases, and it becomes easier to link the movement of the face and the case more stably. Further, since the case can be attached to the ear, it is easy to attach to the human body even when other wearing tools (such as a helmet or glasses) are used.

In the invention of claim 34, the attachment portion is configured as a separate body from the case, and is disposed on the right side of the user's face, and is disposed on the left side of the user's face and the right mounting portion on which the case can be detached. And a left mounting portion to which the case can be attached and detached.
According to this configuration, the case can be mounted on the right side or the left side of the user's face, and the degree of freedom of mounting is increased.

In the invention of claim 35, when either the case or the attachment portion is provided with a magnet, and the other is provided with a suction portion that is attracted by the magnet, the case is attached to the right attachment portion. The case and the right mounting part are held by the suction of the magnet and the suction part, and when the case is mounted to the left mounting part, the case and the left mounting part are held by the suction of the magnet and the suction part. It has a configuration.
According to this structure, even when the case is attached to the right side or the left side of the face, the case can be easily attached using the attractive force of the magnet. Moreover, it becomes easy to remove or replace the case from the mounting portion.

In the invention of claim 36, the case is configured to be fitted with the right fitted portion formed in the right mounting portion, and is configured to be fitted with the left fitted portion formed in the left mounting portion. When the case is attached to the right mounting part, the fitting part and the right fitted part are fitted, and when the case is attached to the left mounting part, the fitting part and the left side are fitted. It is the structure which a to-be-fitted part fits.
In this configuration, even when the case is attached to the right side of the face or the left side, the case is attached in a fitted state, so that the case is less likely to be displaced.

In the invention of claim 37, the case is detachably connected to the right mounting portion, and the case posture with respect to the right mounting portion is the first predetermined posture when the case is connected to the right mounting portion. The case is detachably connected to the first guide portion to be guided and the left mounting portion, and when the case is connected to the left mounting portion, the posture of the case with respect to the left mounting portion becomes the second predetermined posture. And a second guide portion for guiding.
In this configuration, the case posture with respect to the attachment portion can be stably determined regardless of whether the case is attached to the right side or the left side of the face.

In the invention of claim 38, the guide portion is provided on at least two case-side connecting portions provided on the case side, at least two right-side connecting portions provided on the right mounting portion side, and on the left mounting portion side. At least two left side connecting portions, and the case is attached to the right mounting portion by connecting at least two case side connecting portions and at least two right side connecting portions, respectively, and at least two case side connecting portions are provided. The case is attached to the left mounting part by connecting the part and at least two left side connecting parts.
According to this configuration, even when the case is attached to the right side of the face or the left side, the two connection portions provided in the case (with respect to at least two connection portions defined in the attachment portion) (Case side connecting portion) is connected so as to be matched, and therefore, it becomes easier to set the case more accurately so that the direction of the case faces a desired direction.

In the invention of claim 39, as the two case side coupling portions, a first case side coupling portion configured as a permanent magnet and a second case side coupling portion configured as a permanent magnet are provided, and two right side couplings are provided. As a part, the 1st right side connection part comprised as a permanent magnet and the 2nd right side connection part comprised as a permanent magnet are provided, and the 1st left side connection part comprised as a permanent magnet as two left side connection parts And a second left connecting part configured as a permanent magnet, and the first case side connecting part has a polarity different from that of the first right connecting part and the first left connecting part, and the second right connecting part and the second right connecting part. The polarity is the same as that of the second left side connecting part and the second left side connecting part. The second case side connecting part has the same polarity as the second right side connecting part and the second left side connecting part. It has become.
In this configuration, whether the case is mounted on the right side or the left side of the face, the case can be guided more strongly and more accurately to an appropriate position by using the force with which the magnets attract at least two positions. It is possible to reduce the burden of alignment and connection. Furthermore, even when the case is attached to the right side of the face or the left side, when the connection parts that do not correspond are attached so as to match each other, the connection parts that do not correspond have the same polarity. The connecting parts repel each other at the position, and are not connected. Therefore, whether the case is mounted on the right side or the left side of the face, it is easier to align the case with the mounting portion more accurately and quickly when it is in the correct orientation. This abnormal connection can be prevented more reliably.

In the invention of claim 40, the attachment portion is connected to the supported portion that is supported by being hooked on any ear of the user, the front extending portion that extends from the supported portion, and the front extending portion. A holding part for holding the case, and at the time of attachment when the attachment part is attached to the user, the front extension part is arranged to extend to the front side of the supported part, and from the ear hole of the ear that supports the supported part Also, the holding portion is arranged at the front position.
In this configuration, the holding portion that holds the case is disposed in front of the user's ear canal, and thus the holding portion does not easily block the user's ear canal.

In the invention of claim 41, the holding portion includes a back surface portion facing the user's face at a position before the ear hole, and a surface portion disposed on the opposite side of the back surface portion, and the case at the surface portion. It is the structure to hold.
In this configuration, since the case is held by the surface portion arranged at a position away from the user's face, the case held by the surface portion is less likely to block the user's ear canal.

In the invention of claim 42, the wall portion on the side attached to the attachment portion in the case is formed with a lead-out hole for deriving sound, and when the case is attached to the attachment portion, a part of the attachment portion is At least a part of the lead-out hole is covered with the covering portion formed, and when the case is removed after being detached from the attachment portion, a portion of the lead-out hole that is covered with the cover portion is exposed.
In this configuration, when the case is placed near the face, the sound can be relatively suppressed by closing the outlet hole, even when the sound source is near the user's ear, It can suppress that a loud sound reaches a user too much. On the other hand, when the case is not worn easily away from the face, the sound can be made relatively loud by exposing the lead-out hole, even if the sound source is some distance away from the user's ear Makes it easier for people to reach.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a portable information code reader according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically illustrating an electrical configuration of the portable information code reader of FIG. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing a usage state of the portable information code reader of FIG. 4 is a side view of the portable information code reader of FIG. 1 as viewed from one side in the lateral direction. FIG. 5 is a side view of the portable information code reader of FIG. 1 viewed from a side different from that in FIG. 6 is a bottom view of the portable information code reader of FIG. FIG. 7A is a front view of the portable information code reader of FIG. 1, and FIG. 7B is a diagram showing a state that is upside down from the state of FIG. 7A. FIG. 8 is a rear view of the portable information code reader of FIG. FIG. 9 (A) is an explanatory view simply showing the arrangement structure of the ear hook when the portable information code reader of FIG. 1 is attached to the right ear, and FIG. 9 (B) is the portable type. It is explanatory drawing which shows simply the arrangement structure etc. of the ear hooking part when attaching an information code reader to a left ear. FIG. 10 is a chart showing an example of cooperation processing performed between the portable information code reader of FIG. 1 and an external device. FIG. 11 is a diagram schematically showing how the portable information code reader of FIG. 1 is actually used. FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram schematically illustrating a blink detection sensor as an example of a sensor unit. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the concept of blink detection by the blink detection sensor of FIG. FIG. 14 is a perspective view schematically showing an example in which the ear insertion part is configured to be detachable. FIG. 15 is a front view of the configuration of FIG. FIG. 16 (A) is a front view schematically showing a state in which the ear insertion part is removed and another member is attached as shown in FIG. 14, and FIG. 16 (B) is a diagram showing the separate member as shown in FIG. 16 (A). Is a view from a different angle. FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of a reading process performed by the portable information code reading device according to the second embodiment. FIG. 18 is an explanatory diagram for conceptually explaining a state of reading performed by the portable information code reader according to the second embodiment. FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of a reading process performed by the portable information code reading device according to the first modification of the second embodiment. FIG. 20 is an explanatory diagram conceptually illustrating a state of reading performed by the portable information code reading device according to the first modification of the second embodiment. FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of a reading process performed by the portable information code reading device according to the second modification of the second embodiment. FIG. 22 (A) is an explanatory diagram conceptually illustrating a state of reading performed by the portable information code reader according to the second modification of the second embodiment, and FIG. 22 (B) is a predetermined success. FIG. 22C is an explanatory diagram showing a display example by a light source in a predetermined failure state. FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the use of the portable information code reading device according to the third embodiment. FIG. 24 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a portable information code reader according to the third embodiment. FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the portable information code reader according to the third embodiment viewed from a direction different from that in FIG. FIG. 26 is a perspective view of the portable information code reader according to the third embodiment as seen from a direction different from FIGS. FIG. 27 is a perspective view of the portable information code reader according to the third embodiment viewed from a direction different from that in FIGS. FIG. 28 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which the apparatus main body is mounted on the left mounting portion in the portable information code reader according to the third embodiment. FIG. 29 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the vicinity of the user's face on which the portable information code reader according to the third embodiment is mounted. FIG. 30 is a perspective view showing a state in which the apparatus main body and the holding member are disassembled from the configuration of FIG. FIG. 31 is a perspective view schematically showing a state in which the case is removed from the attachment portion in the portable information code reader according to the third embodiment. FIG. 32 is a perspective view illustrating an attachment portion that is a part of the portable information code reader according to the third embodiment. FIG. 33 is a side view illustrating a device main body which is a part of the portable information code reading device according to the third embodiment. 34 is a side view of the apparatus main body of FIG. 33 viewed from the side opposite to FIG. FIG. 35 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which the apparatus main body illustrated in FIGS. 33 and 34 is connected to a cable. FIG. 36 is a diagram of components housed in the case as viewed from the front side of the case, and is a diagram illustrating the configuration of an imaging unit, a lens, and the like housed in the case. FIG. 37 is an explanatory view showing a state in which the holding member is detached from the case. FIG. 38 is an explanatory view showing a state in which the holding member is attached to the case and the cable is held by the holding member. FIG. 39 is an explanatory diagram for explaining how to attach the attachment portion to the user. FIG. 40 is an explanatory diagram showing a state where the attachment portion is attached to the user from the front side of the user's face. FIG. 41 is a perspective view showing a state in which the apparatus main body is attached to the attachment portion in a state where the holding member is attached to the case and the cable is held by the holding member. FIG. 42 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a state in which the orientation of the case attached to the attachment portion is finely adjusted. FIG. 43 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the flow of control in the portable information code reader according to the third embodiment. FIG. 44 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a state of reading using the portable information code reading device according to the third embodiment. FIG. 45 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a usage method different from that of FIGS. 23 and 44 relating to the portable information code reader according to the third embodiment. FIG. 46 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a scene where the usage method as shown in FIG. 45 is performed. FIG. 47 is a perspective view schematically showing an external device and the like electrically connected to the apparatus main body. FIG. 48 is an explanatory diagram for explaining how the apparatus main body is connected to an external device.

[First embodiment]
Hereinafter, a first embodiment embodying the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
(overall structure)
As shown in FIG. 1, a portable information code reader 10 according to the first embodiment (hereinafter also simply referred to as an information code reader 10 or a reader 10) includes an imaging unit 23 that images an information code, and an imaging unit. 23, a processing unit (control circuit 40 (FIG. 2)) that processes the image of the information code imaged by 23, a case 12 that holds the imaging unit 23 and the processing unit, and a case 12 that is integral with or separate from the case 12. And an attachment portion 60 for attaching the case 12 to one of the user's ears.

  First, the electrical configuration of the information code reader 10 will be described. As shown in FIG. 2, the information code reader 10 is configured as a code reader capable of reading a two-dimensional code in hardware, and an outer case is formed by a case 12, and various electronic components are included in the case 12. Is housed.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the information code reader 10 mainly includes an illumination light source 21, a marker light irradiation unit 50, an imaging unit 23, a filter 25, an imaging lens 27, and other optical systems, a memory 35, a control circuit 40, It is composed of a microcomputer (hereinafter referred to as “microcomputer”) system such as an operation switch 42 and a power system such as a power switch 41 and a battery 49. These are mounted on a printed wiring board (not shown) or housed in the case 12.

  The optical system includes an illumination light source 21, an imaging unit 23, a filter 25, an imaging lens 27, a marker light irradiation unit 50, and the like. The illumination light source 21 functions as an illumination light source capable of emitting illumination light Lf, and includes, for example, an LED of a predetermined color and a diffusing lens, a condensing lens, and the like provided on the emission side of the LED. In the present embodiment, the illumination light Lf can be irradiated toward the reading object R through an irradiation port (illumination light outlet 16) formed in the case. As the reading object R, for example, various objects such as a resin material, a metal material, and an information device are conceivable. For example, an information code 100 as shown in FIG. It is formed by image display or the like. Note that the type of the information code 100 to be read may be a one-dimensional code such as a bar code, or may be a two-dimensional code such as a QR code (registered trademark), a data matrix coat, or a maxi code. Moreover, the marker light irradiation part 50 is comprised by the well-known marker light source etc., and it is comprised so that the illumination light source 21 may irradiate the marker light Mk with high directivity, for example on the same side as the side which irradiates light. Yes.

  The imaging unit 23 is configured by a light receiving sensor (for example, an area sensor in which light receiving elements such as C-MOS and CCD are two-dimensionally arranged) that can image the information code 100, and irradiates the reading object R and the information code 100. Thus, the reflected light Lr reflected and reflected is configured to be received. The imaging unit 23 is disposed so that incident light incident through the imaging lens 27 can be received by the light receiving surface 23a.

  The filter 25 is an optical low-pass filter that allows passage of light that is less than or equal to the wavelength of the reflected light Lr, for example, and can block passage of light that exceeds the wavelength, and is connected to the reading port 14 formed in the case 12. It is provided between the image lens 27. Thereby, unnecessary light exceeding the wavelength equivalent of the reflected light Lr is prevented from entering the imaging unit 23. In addition, the imaging lens 27 is constituted by, for example, a lens barrel and a plurality of condensing lenses housed in the lens barrel. In this configuration, the reflection lens 27 is incident on the reading port 14 formed in the case 12. The light Lr is condensed and a code image of the information code 100 is formed on the light receiving surface 23a of the imaging unit 23.

  The microcomputer system includes an amplification circuit 31, an A / D conversion circuit 33, a memory 35, an address generation circuit 36, a synchronization signal generation circuit 38, a control circuit 40, an operation switch 42, a microphone 43, a sound generation unit 44, a sensor unit 46, and a communication unit. It consists of 48 grades. This microcomputer system is configured with a control circuit 40 and a memory 35 that can function as a microcomputer (information processing apparatus) as a center. It can be processed.

  An image signal (analog signal) output from the image pickup unit 23 of the optical system is input to the amplification circuit 31 and amplified by a predetermined gain, and then input to the A / D conversion circuit 33, and the analog signal is converted into a digital signal. Is converted to The digitized image signal, that is, image data (image information) is input to the memory 35 and stored in the image data storage area of the memory 35. The synchronization signal generation circuit 38 is configured to be able to generate a synchronization signal for the imaging unit 23 and the address generation circuit 36. The address generation circuit 36 is based on the synchronization signal supplied from the synchronization signal generation circuit 38. Thus, the storage address of the image data stored in the memory 35 can be generated.

  The memory 35 is composed of a semiconductor memory device or the like, and corresponds to, for example, a RAM (DRAM, SRAM, etc.) or a ROM (EPROM, EEPROM, etc.). In addition to the above-described image data storage area, the RAM of the memory 35 is configured to be able to secure a work area and a reading condition table that are used by the control circuit 40 in each processing such as arithmetic operation and logical operation. . The ROM stores in advance a predetermined program that can execute a reading process, which will be described later, and a system program that can control each hardware such as the illumination light source 21 and the imaging unit 23.

  The control circuit 40 is a microcomputer capable of controlling the entire information code reader 10, and includes a CPU, a system bus, an input / output interface, and the like, and has an information processing function. Various input / output devices (peripheral devices) are connected to the control circuit 40 via a built-in input / output interface. In the case of this configuration, the power switch 41, the operation switch 42, the microphone 43, and the sound generation unit 44 are connected. The sensor unit 46, the communication unit 48, and the like are connected. The communication unit 48 is configured as a known communication interface that performs wired communication or wireless communication, and communicates with an external device provided outside the case 12 to transmit information to the external device or from the external device. It functions to receive information. In the example of FIG. 2, as the “external device”, an information processing device such as a computer HST (a stationary personal computer or a portable personal computer) corresponding to the host system of the information code reader 10, for example, wireless It is connected so that it can communicate with the communication method. The example of the external device is not limited to this, and may be connected to a portable information processing device connected to the reading device 10 via the cable 80, for example.

  The power supply system includes a power switch 41, a battery 49, and the like. When the power switch 41 managed by the control circuit 40 is turned on and off, the conduction of the drive voltage supplied from the battery 49 to each device and each circuit described above is established. Or shut off is controlled. The battery 49 is a secondary battery that can generate a predetermined DC voltage, and corresponds to, for example, a lithium ion battery. The battery 49 may be provided in the case 12 or may be provided in a separate portable device connected to the case 12 by the cable 80.

(Mounting structure etc.)
Next, a mounting structure, which is a main feature of the portable information code reader 10, will be described.
The portable information code reader 10 includes an imaging unit 23 capable of imaging the information code 100, and a processing unit (control circuit 40 (FIG. 2) that decodes the information code 100 when the information code 100 is captured by the imaging unit 23. )), A case 12 that holds the imaging unit 23 and the processing unit, and an attachment unit 60 that is provided integrally with the case 12 or as a separate body, and attaches the case 12 to one of the user's ears. It has. The case 12 includes a reading port 14 through which light from the information code can be introduced. As shown in FIG. 3, the attachment unit 60 is configured so that the case 12 is positioned laterally of the user's face Fa (lateral position of the ear, Alternatively, the case 12 is attached to the ear Ey of the user P so that the reading port 14 faces the front side of the user P.

  As shown in FIGS. 3 to 8, the case 12 includes an extending portion 12 c extending in a predetermined direction (specifically, the longitudinal direction of the case 12) from the position of the mounting portion 60, and is attached to the extending portion 12 c. The reading port 14 is provided at a position near the end opposite to the portion 60 (specifically, the front wall 13c provided at the front end of the case 12). And the attachment part 60 becomes a structure which attaches the case 12 to a user's ear Ey by the structure by which the extension part 12c is extended at least to the front side (side to which a user's face Fa faces) from a user's ear.

  In the present embodiment, the direction in which the mounting portion 60 and the reading port 14 are arranged is the front-rear direction of the reading device 10, and the reading port 14 side is the front side and the opposite side is the rear side with respect to the mounting portion 60. . In addition, the direction perpendicular to the front-rear direction and the ear insertion portion 61 protrudes is the left-right direction of the reading apparatus 10. Further, the front-rear direction and the direction orthogonal to the left-right direction are defined as the vertical direction of the reading apparatus 10. Further, in this specification, the direction in which the face Fa faces with respect to the user's face Fa will be described as the front side of the face Fa, and the occipital side will be described as the back side of the face Fa.

  As shown in FIGS. 4 to 8, the case 12 is provided with a front wall portion 13 c at the front end portion and a rear wall portion 13 d at the rear end portion in such a definition. Furthermore, the side wall part 13b is provided in the left-right direction one side (attachment part 60 side), and the side wall part 13a is provided in the opposite side. Further, an upper wall portion 13e is provided at the upper end portion, and a lower wall portion 13f is provided at the lower end portion. And the storage part which stores electronic parts, such as an image pick-up part and a control circuit, is a box-like composition enclosed by these front wall part, rear wall part, side wall part, upper wall part, and lower wall part in front and rear, right and left It is configured.

  Specifically, the attachment portion 60 includes an ear insertion portion 61 that is inserted into the hole of the user's ear Ey, and an ear hooking portion 62 that is hung on the user's ear. In this configuration, the main body portion of the case 12 is formed in a longitudinal and box shape, and the ear insertion portion 61 is formed so as to protrude from the side wall portion 13b on one end side in the longitudinal direction of the main body portion. An ear hooking portion 62 is provided so as to extend in an arc shape from the vicinity of the base end portion (near the base of the protrusion) of the ear insertion portion 61. 1 and 4 to 8, the extension destination of the ear hook 62 is omitted. The ear hooking portion 62 is actually configured to be bent in an arc shape as shown in FIGS. 3 and 9 and bendable, and the ear insertion portion 61 is inserted into the hole of the ear Ey as shown in FIG. When it is, it has a structure that can be hung on the portion of the ear Ey facing the head side.

  Moreover, as schematically shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, the ear hook 62 is detachable from a part of the case 12 or a connecting part connected to the case 12. A first fixing portion 72 to which the ear hooking portion 62 should be fixed when the ear hooking portion 62 is attached to the left ear of the user is used in a part of the case 12 or the connecting portion connected to the case 12. When the ear hook 62 is attached to the right ear of the person, a second fixing portion 71 to which the ear hook 62 should be fixed is formed. The first fixing portion 72 is configured as, for example, a first hole portion that opens upward (on the upper wall portion 13e side) on the proximal end side of the protruding ear insertion portion 61. For example, the first fixing portion 72 is a curved member. By inserting one end of the configured ear hook 62 into the first hole, and fitting and fixing it, an arrangement configuration for the left ear can be obtained as shown in FIG. 9B. ing. Moreover, the 2nd fixing | fixed part 71 is comprised as a 2nd hole opened to the downward side (lower wall part side) in the base end side of the protrusion-like ear insertion part 61, for example, for example, a curved member As shown in FIG. 9A, an arrangement configuration for the right ear can be obtained by inserting one end portion of the ear hook portion 62 configured as shown in FIG. It is like that. In addition, when the ear | edge insertion part 61 is comprised as a part of case 12, the ear hooking part 62 will be attached or detached to such a part of cases. Moreover, when the insertion part 61 is comprised as a connection part (for example, connection part connected to the case 12 so that attachment or detachment) is connected with the case 12, the ear hooking part 62 is attached or detached to such a connection part. become.

  In addition, the case 12 includes a reading port 14 through which light from the information code can be introduced, and the attachment portion 60 can be attached to the left ear side of the user even when the case 12 is attached to the user's left ear. Even when attached to the right ear side, the case 12 can be attached to the user's ear with the configuration in which the reading port 14 faces the front side of the user. Specifically, the attachment portion 60 can be placed on the right side of the user by the arrangement as shown in FIG. 9A even when the attachment portion 60 is attached to the user's left ear by the arrangement as shown in FIG. Even when attached to the ear, the case 12 can be attached to the user's ear in such a configuration that the reading port 14 faces the front side of the user (see also FIGS. 7A and 7B).

  Further, as described above, in this configuration, the illumination light source 21 that irradiates illumination light and the marker light irradiation unit 50 that irradiates marker light are provided, and the illumination light and marker light irradiation unit 50 from the illumination light source 21 are provided. Each of the marker lights is irradiated to the front side of the reading device 10 from the front wall portion 13c. Specifically, the illumination light from the illumination light source 21 is irradiated to the front side via the illumination light exit 16, and the marker light from the marker light irradiation unit 50 is directed to the front side via the marker light exit 17. It comes to be irradiated. The mounting portion 60 is configured to irradiate the irradiation light from the illumination light source 21 and the marker light irradiation portion 50 regardless of whether the case 12 is attached to the user's left ear side or the case 12 is attached to the user's right ear side. The case 12 can be attached to the user's ear in such a configuration that the marker light from the front is irradiated on the front side of the user. Specifically, the attachment portion 60 is arranged as shown in FIG. 9A even when the attachment portion 60 is attached to the left ear of the user by the arrangement as shown in FIG. 9B. Even when attached to the right ear of the user, the front wall portion 13c faces the front side of the face Fa, and the irradiation light from the illumination light source 21 and the marker light from the marker light irradiation unit 50 are irradiated to the front side of the user. In this configuration, the case 12 can be attached to the user's ear. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 7A, the illumination light outlet 16 and the marker light outlet 17 are respectively arranged on the left and right of the reading port 14, and the mounting portion 60 is used by the arrangement as shown in FIG. 7B. Even if the attachment portion 60 is attached to the user's right ear by the arrangement as shown in FIG. 7A, the illumination light exit 16 is provided outside the reading opening 14 in the left-right direction. The marker light outlet 17 is disposed on the inner side in the left-right direction of the reading port 14. More specifically, when viewed from the front as shown in FIG. 7, the marker light outlet 17 and the illumination light outlet 16 are substantially line symmetric about a vertical center line G3 passing through the center G1 of the reading port 14. The marker light outlet 17, the illumination light outlet 16, and the reading port 14 are arranged on a line G2 passing through the center G1 and orthogonal to the center line G3.

  As shown in FIGS. 4 to 8, the reading device 10 includes a cable 80 that is held by the case 12 and is electrically connected to an external device provided outside the case 12. 80 is drawn out of the case 12 from one side in the short direction (specifically, below the mounting portion 60 provided near one side in the longitudinal direction of the case 12) near one side in the longitudinal direction of the case 12.

  In addition, an external operation (for example, an attachment portion) is provided on the wall portion (side wall portion 13a) opposite to the wall portion (side wall portion 13b) provided with the attachment portion 60 in the case 12 at a position on the back side of the attachment portion 60. An operation switch 42 that can perform a pressing operation toward the 60 side is provided. In this configuration, since the operation switch 42 is operated on the back side of the attachment portion 60 serving as the rotation center portion, even if a pressing operation or the like is performed on the operation switch 42, the operation force causes the vicinity of the attachment portion 60 and the center. Since the moment is not easily generated, the case 12 is difficult to rotate. Therefore, the relative orientation of the entire reading apparatus with respect to the user's face is easily maintained stably.

(How to use etc.)
Next, the reading device 10 and an external device that can communicate with the reading device 10 (here, for example, a host device HST (FIG. 11) such as a personal computer or a smartphone that is connected to the reading device 10 so as to perform wireless communication) are illustrated. ) Will be described. In the reading apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment, specifically, for example, when the user presses the operation switch 42, irradiation of illumination light from the illumination light source 21 and irradiation of marker light from the marker light irradiation unit 50 are started. And the imaging by the imaging part 23 is started. The illumination light from the illumination light source 21 is emitted so as to illuminate the imaging range of the imaging unit 23, for example. Further, the marker light from the marker light irradiation unit 50 is irradiated so as to pass through the imaging range of the imaging unit 23 (for example, so as not to deviate from the imaging range). For example, as shown in FIG. 11, when the reading object R on which the information code 100 is represented is arranged on the front side of the reading device 10 (that is, the front side of the user's face), the imaging unit 23 in the reading device 10 The information code 100 attached to the reading object R is imaged, and the captured image (code image) is read by a known decoding method. Note that the imaging area from the reading device 10 is preferably in a range that can be reached by the user (particularly, a range in which the user can easily place an object by holding it), for example, 10 cm to 150 cm (more Desirably, about 20 cm to 100 cm).

  When the reading is successful, a predetermined notification sound is emitted from the sound generation unit 44. The sound generation unit 44 is configured by a sound generation device such as a speaker or an earphone. When the reading is successful, the sound generation unit 44 emits a predetermined first sound prepared for successful reading in advance. When reading fails, an error sound (predetermined second sound prepared for reading failure) different from the predetermined notification sound may be emitted. In this case, the first sound may be a simple sound such as “beep” or a melody. Alternatively, it may be a voice such as “Reading was successful”. The second voice may be a simple sound such as “pea” or a melody. Alternatively, it may be a voice such as “Reading failed”. In this configuration, the sound generation unit 44 corresponds to an example of a “notification unit”, and at least the processing result in the processing unit (specifically, the result of whether or not the decoding of the information code has been successful) is notified. Function.

  In this configuration, the ear insertion unit 61 is provided with a derivation unit (derivation hole 61a) for deriving the sound from the sound generation unit 44, and the sound emitted from the sound generation unit 44 through the derivation unit is transmitted to the user. It comes to be transmitted in the ear. If the path for guiding the sound from the sound generation unit 44 (space, sound conduction medium, etc.) is configured up to the lead-out unit, the sound generation unit 44 itself may be in the ear insertion unit 61. It may be outside (for example, between the wall 13a and the wall 13b in the case 12).

  10 and 11 show an example in which a slip is read by the reading device 10 according to the present configuration and picking work is performed. In the example of FIGS. 10 and 11, when the information code attached to the slip is decrypted by the reader 10, first, the decrypted data (in FIG. 10, QR code data (QR code is a registered trademark)) Is output to an external device. Then, the external device (host) analyzes the content of the decoded data and transmits guide information to the reading device 10. For example, in the external device, a plurality of decoded data is assumed, and guidance information (data including voice information) is prepared for each decoded data. When the decryption data is acquired from the reading device 10, guidance information associated with the acquired decryption data is transmitted to the reading device 10. In the example of FIG. 10, the position information of the product corresponding to the slip code, the number to be read, the data about the product number information, and the audio information are received from the external device (host device) as guidance information. To communicate. When the reading device 10 acquires such guidance information, the reading device 10 converts voice information included in the guidance information into voice and emits it from the sound generation unit 44. In this case, the user can read the target product by moving to a designated position based on the voice information, and when the information code of the product is further read by the reader 10 after that, the user decodes it. Data is output to the external device and collation is performed on the external device side. In this configuration, the control circuit 40 and the sound generation unit 44 correspond to an example of a “voice guide unit”, and the processing unit responds after decoding the decoding information based on the decoding information obtained by decoding the information code. It functions to provide voice guidance for information to be played.

  In this example, the voice guidance unit including the control circuit 40 and the sound generator 44 decodes the data acquired from the external device (that is, the decoded data when the information code is decoded and the decoded data is transmitted to the external device). Data sent from an external device in response to the voice), but if the voice guidance is based on the decoded information obtained by the processing unit decoding the information code, the voice guidance method is this method. Not limited to. For example, audio data at the time of decoding failure is prepared in the reading device in advance, and when decoding fails, the audio data (for example, “Decoding failed. Please read again.” A voice guidance for notifying the user of a message prompting reading) may be used. Alternatively, audio data at the time of successful decoding is prepared in the reading device in advance, and when the decoding is successful, the audio data (for example, “Decoding was successful. Voice guidance for notifying the next reading message) by voice may also be used.

(Main effects of the first embodiment)
In the configuration of Patent Document 1 and the configuration in which a reading device is fixed by fitting a band or the like on the user's head as shown in FIG. 1 of Patent Document 2, it is difficult to apply when a wearing device is worn on the user's head. There is a problem. For example, when a reading operation is performed after wearing a helmet, a hat, or the like, it is difficult to apply the head-mounted reading device disclosed in these patent documents, and there is a concern that it may take time to wear. In addition, as in Patent Document 1, the configuration in which the reading device is attached on the screen that covers the eyes has a problem that it is difficult to apply when working with glasses. Moreover, the structure attached to parts other than a user's head is also disclosed by FIG. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, if the reading device is fixed to an arm, a trunk, or the like, the reading device can be fixed without any trouble even when a helmet, glasses, or the like is used together. However, with such a fixed structure, the reading direction of the reading device cannot be linked to the movement of the user's face, and the direction the user is looking at and the reading direction of the reading device are likely to deviate. For example, the user is conscious of the article to be read, such as bringing the arm or body close to the article to be read, and eventually the workability is the same as that of a conventional portable terminal.
On the other hand, according to this configuration, the case 12 holding the imaging unit 23 and the processing unit can be attached to the user's ear by the attachment unit 60. Therefore, the reading operation can be performed while attaching the reading device to a portion other than the hand, and the user can easily use both hands for other purposes than the reading operation. Further, since the reading device is attached to the ear, the movement of the face and the entire reading device are linked, and the reading direction can be determined in accordance with the movement of the user's face. Furthermore, since the attachment position is one ear, it is easy to attach even the case 12 where other wearing tools (such as a helmet and glasses) are used.

  In addition, since it is a type that is attached to the ear, blurring (such as camera shake) is less likely to occur compared to the hand-held method. Further, since there is little blur at the time of imaging, the shutter speed can be made relatively slow, and it becomes easy to ensure a sufficient amount of received light. Therefore, it is easy to reduce the amount of illumination light. In addition, since there is little blurring, a complicated correction mechanism can be omitted, and it is easy to simplify, compact, and reduce the device configuration.

  In addition, the case 12 includes a reading port 14 into which light from the information code can be introduced, and the mounting portion 60 is configured such that the case 12 is disposed in a lateral position of the user's face and the reading port 14 is on the front side of the user. The case 12 is configured to be attached to the user's ear. According to this configuration, the orientation of the user's face and the reading direction are easily linked well, and the information code arranged on the side facing the user's face can be read smoothly and smoothly. Further, since the case 12 is arranged in the lateral position of the face, the case does not enter the user's field of view, and the case does not disturb the field of view.

  Furthermore, the case 12 includes an extension part 12c extending in a predetermined direction from the position of the attachment part 60, and the reading port 14 is provided near the end of the extension part 12c opposite to the attachment part 60. The attachment portion 60 is configured to attach the case 12 to the user's ear with the extension portion 12c extending at least to the front side from the user's ear. In this way, when the case 12 is extended slightly ahead of the ear and the information code is read through the reading port 14 on the end side, the space in front of the face is removed by removing the user's face from the imaging area as much as possible. It becomes easy to image more widely.

  Moreover, the attachment part 60 has the ear | edge insertion part 61 inserted in a user's ear hole. According to this configuration, the case 12 can be held using the hole in the ear. Furthermore, since the position of the mounting portion 60 and the position of the ear hole can be accurately aligned, the position of the case 12 can be accurately determined with reference to the ear hole.

  Moreover, the attaching part 60 has the ear hooking part 62 hung on a user's ear. According to this configuration, the case 12 can be easily held stably by the user's ear.

  The ear hook 62 is detachable from a part of the case 12 or a connecting part connected to the case 12, and is used for a part of the case 12 or a connecting part connected to the case 12. When attaching the ear hanger 62 to the left ear of the user, the ear hanger 62 is fixed when the ear hanger 62 should be fixed, and when attaching the ear hanger 62 to the right ear of the user, the ear hanger 62 is fixed. A second fixing portion 71 to be formed is formed. According to this configuration, the reading device can be attached to either the right ear or the left ear of the user, and when attaching to each ear, the ear hooking portion 62 can be fixed at a position corresponding to the ear. .

  Further, the case 12 includes a reading port 14 through which light from the information code can be introduced, and the attachment portion 60 is attached to the user's right ear even when the attachment portion 60 is attached to the user's left ear. Even when attached, the case 12 can be attached to the user's ear in a configuration in which the reading port 14 faces the front side of the user. According to this configuration, it is possible to satisfactorily link the orientation of the user's face and the reading direction, whether attached to the user's right ear or the left ear.

  Moreover, it has the illumination light source 21 which irradiates illumination light, and the marker light irradiation part 50 which irradiates marker light, and even when the said attachment part 60 is attached to a user's left ear, the attachment part 60 is right of a user. Even when attached to the ear, the case 12 can be attached to the user's ear in a configuration in which the irradiation light from the illumination light source 21 and the marker light from the marker light irradiation unit 50 are irradiated to the front side of the user. . According to this configuration, it is possible to irradiate illumination light and marker light to the front side of the user on the reading side, whether attached to the right ear of the user or attached to the left ear. The configuration of any embodiment other than the first embodiment can be applied as long as this configuration can be applied.

  Moreover, in this structure, it has the illumination light source 21 which irradiates illumination light, the marker light irradiation part 50 which irradiates marker light, and the irradiation control part (control circuit 40). In this configuration, further power saving can be achieved without operating the illumination light source 21 and the marker light irradiation unit 50 until a predetermined state (a state in which a predetermined start operation is performed on the operation switch 42) occurs. By responding so that the predetermined state occurs, it is possible to operate at least one of the illumination light source 21 and the marker light irradiation unit 50 to facilitate reading. Such a control method of the illumination light source and the marker light irradiation unit may be applied to any configuration of any embodiment other than the first embodiment.

In the above representative example, when a predetermined operation is performed on the operation switch 42 (specifically, the press sensor unit), imaging is started by the imaging unit 23, and this is performed when the information code is captured during the imaging. Although an example of decoding the information code has been shown, the operation of the operation switch 42 may be replaced with “detection of a predetermined state by the other sensor unit 46”. In this configuration, a sensor unit 46 is provided inside or outside the case 12, and various sensors described below can be used as the sensor unit 46. For example, when the sensor unit 46 is configured as a known proximity sensor and is disposed at a predetermined position (for example, an outer wall such as the wall 13a or the vicinity thereof), the proximity sensor (for example, the user's proximity) When the proximity of the hand is detected (when a predetermined detection result is obtained), illumination light irradiation by the illumination light source 21 and marker light irradiation by the marker light irradiation unit 50 are started and imaging by the imaging unit 23 is started. The information code may be decoded when the information code is imaged during the imaging. In this configuration, until the predetermined detection result is detected by the sensor unit 46, the decoding process by the processing unit can be stopped to save power, and the predetermined detection result can be generated by the sensor unit 46. By taking (for example, by taking a measure to bring an object close to the proximity sensor), it is possible to return to the decoding start state. The control method using such a sensor unit may be applied to any configuration of any embodiment other than the first embodiment.
In this case, the control circuit 40 corresponds to the irradiation control unit, and the illumination light source 21 and the marker light irradiation unit 50 are provided on the condition that a predetermined state (a state in which a predetermined detection result is obtained by the sensor unit 46) has occurred. And at least one of the illumination light and the marker light is started to function. Such a control method may be applied to any configuration of any embodiment other than the first embodiment.

  Further, the sensor unit 46 may be capable of detecting a predetermined state in which the attachment unit 60 is attached to the user's ear. For example, a proximity sensor or a contact sensor may be provided as the sensor unit 46 in the attachment unit 60, and a detection signal may be generated from the sensor unit 46 when the proximity or contact of the ear to the sensor unit 46 is detected. In this case, the control circuit 40 corresponding to the processing unit starts the operation of the illumination light source 21 and the marker light irradiation unit 50 on condition that the predetermined state (proximity or contact of the ear) is detected by the sensor unit 46. At the same time, imaging by the imaging unit 23 is started, and when the information code is captured during the imaging, the information code is decoded. In this configuration, until the attachment portion 60 is attached to the user's ear, the decoding process by the processing portion can be stopped to save power, and when the attachment portion 60 is attached to the ear, decoding starts. It can be returned to the state. The control method using such a sensor unit may be applied to any configuration of any embodiment other than the first embodiment.

  Further, in the present embodiment, a communication unit 48 that communicates with an external device provided outside the case 12 is provided, and the communication unit 48 can transmit information to the external device or receive information from the external device. . According to this configuration, since information can be exchanged with the external device, a part of the reading device 10 can be shared by the external device without having all the processing functions. Therefore, it is easy to simplify the reading apparatus 10, which is advantageous in terms of size reduction and weight reduction. Such a communication unit may be applied to any configuration of any embodiment other than the first embodiment.

  In addition, in the case 12 or a part attached to the case 12, a notification unit that notifies at least the reading result of the processing unit is provided. According to this configuration, the reading result of the processing unit can be satisfactorily transmitted to the user. In particular, since the notification is made near the ear, the notification is easily transmitted to the user reliably. Such a notification unit may be applied to any configuration of any embodiment other than the first embodiment.

  Moreover, the attachment part 60 has the ear | edge insertion part 61 inserted in a user's ear hole, and the sound from the sound generation part 44 which emits a sound, or the sound generation part 44 which emits a sound is transmitted to the ear insertion part 61. A deriving unit for deriving is provided. According to this structure, it can function not only as a member for attaching the ear insertion portion 61 but also as an earphone. Further, with this mounting structure, the sound generated in the reader can be transmitted directly to the ear from the portion inserted into the ear, so that the content can be reliably transmitted to the user even with a small sound output. . Such an effect becomes more remarkable in case 12 where noise is assumed during use. Such an ear insertion portion may be applied to any configuration of any embodiment other than the first embodiment.

  In addition, the processing unit includes a voice guidance unit that provides voice guidance of information to be dealt with after decoding the decoded information based on the decoded information obtained by decoding the information code. According to this configuration, it becomes easy for the user to respond quickly and appropriately after decoding the information code. Furthermore, since the reading device is attached to the ear and the voice guidance is emitted from a position close to the ear, the user can easily hear the voice guidance. Such a voice guidance method may be applied to any configuration of any embodiment other than the first embodiment.

  In addition, a cable 80 that is held by the case 12 and is electrically connected to an external device provided outside the case 12 is provided. The case 12 is configured in a longitudinal shape, and one of the longitudinal directions of the case 12 is provided. A mounting portion 60 is provided on the side, and the cable 80 is drawn out of the case 12 from one side in the short direction of the case 12 on one side in the longitudinal direction of the case 12. According to this configuration, even if the case 12 is pulled to some extent, it is difficult for rotational force to be generated in the case 12, so that the relative orientation of the entire reading apparatus with respect to the user's face is easily maintained stably. Such a cable structure may be applied to any configuration of any embodiment other than the first embodiment.

  In addition, an operation switch 42 capable of external operation is provided at a position on the back side of the mounting portion 60 on the wall portion on the opposite side of the wall portion where the mounting portion 60 is provided in the case 12. In this configuration, since the operation switch 42 is operated on the back side of the attachment portion 60 serving as the rotation center portion, even if a pressing operation or the like is performed on the operation switch 42, the operation force causes the vicinity of the attachment portion 60 and the center. Since the moment is not easily generated, the case 12 is difficult to rotate. Therefore, the relative orientation of the entire reading apparatus with respect to the user's face is easily maintained stably. Such a switch structure may be applied to any configuration of any embodiment other than the first embodiment.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, a second embodiment will be described.
The reading device 10 according to the second embodiment includes all the features of the first embodiment, and further features are added. Therefore, the configuration shown in FIGS. 1 to 11 is the same as that of the first embodiment, and detailed description thereof is omitted, and FIGS. 1 to 11 are appropriately referred to.

First, a representative example of the second embodiment will be described.
In this configuration, in addition to the configuration of the first embodiment, specific processing at the time of reading the information code is added as a feature. Specifically, the reading processing is performed in the flow as shown in FIG. The reading process in FIG. 17 is a process that is executed on the condition that a predetermined start condition is satisfied. As the process starts, the light receiving sensor (imaging unit) 23 continuously captures an imaging range set outside the case. (S201). In S201, the area irradiated with the illumination light is imaged while illuminating the illumination light from the illumination light source 21 shown in FIG. 2 toward the imaging range (see the upper diagram of FIG. 18). When the information code enters the imaging range and the information code is captured, the code image of the captured information code is analyzed (S202). In S202, a known decoding process is attempted on the code image of the information code. When the decoding process is successful, the data recorded in the information code is acquired (S203). The data acquired in S203 (data recorded in the information code) is collated with an expected value stored in advance in the memory 35 (FIG. 2) (S204), and whether or not the data matches the expected value. Judgment is made (S205).

  One or a plurality of expected values are registered in the memory 35 in advance, and if the decoded data obtained in S203 matches the expected value registered in the memory 35, the process proceeds to OK in S205. Conversely, if the decrypted data obtained in S203 does not match the expected value registered in the memory 35, the process proceeds to NG in S205. For example, as an expected value, three product number lists of “1234567890001”, “1234567890002”, and “1234567890003” are stored in the memory 35, and the decryption data of the information code obtained in S203 is “1234567890001”. Since the data matches the expected value, the process proceeds to OK in S205, and the process of S206 is performed. On the other hand, when the decrypted data of the information code obtained in S203 is “1234567890009”, the decrypted data does not match the expected value, so that the process proceeds to NG in S205 and the process of S207 is performed.

  When the process proceeds to OK in S205, the illumination light of the illumination light source 21 that has been irradiated from S201 is turned off in S206 (see the lower left diagram in FIG. 18). Since the illumination light is turned off in this manner is a signal for matching the matching result, the user can grasp the matching result by turning off the illumination light. On the other hand, when the process proceeds to NG in S205, in S207, the illumination light of the illumination light source 21 that has been irradiated from S201 is blinked (see the lower right diagram in FIG. 18). The fact that the illumination light is blinked in this way is a signal of the mismatch of the collation result, and thus the user can grasp the mismatch of the collation result by the blinking of the illumination light.

  In this configuration, the illumination light source 21 corresponds to an example of a “light source”, is provided integrally with the case 12, and functions to irradiate light to the outside of the case 12. The imaging unit 23 corresponds to an example of an “imaging unit”, and has a function of imaging the outside of the case 12 in a state where light is emitted toward the outside of the case 12 by the “light source”. The control circuit 40 (FIG. 2) corresponds to a “processing unit” and a “decoding unit”, and has a function of decoding data recorded in an information code imaged by the imaging unit 23. Specifically, It functions to decode the code imaged by the imaging unit 23 in a state where light is irradiated outside the case 12 by the “light source”. In addition, when the control circuit 40 corresponds to an example of a “determination unit” and the decoding result of the information code by the “decoding unit” is in a predetermined success state (in the above example, the decoded data and the memory obtained in S203 are And the expected value stored in the memory 35 in the above-described example and the predetermined failure state that is not the predetermined success state (in the above example, the expected value stored in the memory 35). Are determined to be able to be determined. The control circuit 40 corresponds to an example of an “irradiation state control unit”, and after the information code is attempted to be decoded by the “decoding unit”, the irradiation state of the light from the “light source” is determined by the “determination unit”. It functions to control the state according to the result. Specifically, either the lighting time or the extinguishing time of the light from the “light source” when it is determined by the “determination unit” to be a predetermined success state The time interval is controlled to be different from the time interval of either the lighting time or the light-off time of the light from the “light source” when the “determination unit” determines that the predetermined failure state has occurred. Yes.

Even with this configuration as described above, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained.
Further, according to the present configuration, even when the case 12 is attached to the user's body and the case 12 is difficult to see directly as shown in FIG. 18, the user can irradiate light from the “light source”. Depending on the state, the decoding result of the information code can be grasped.

  In addition, since the decoding result of the information code can be notified by using a light source used at the time of image capturing by the image capturing unit 23, it is easy to simplify the apparatus configuration.

  In addition, according to this configuration, it is possible to notify the decoding result of the information code by adjusting the lighting time or light extinguishing time of the light from the “light source”, thereby reducing hardware burden and simpler control. Can be notified.

[Modification 1 of the second embodiment]
Next, Modification 1 of the second embodiment will be described.
The reader 10 according to the first modification of the second embodiment includes all the features of the first embodiment, and further features are added. Therefore, the configuration shown in FIGS. 1 to 11 is the same as that of the first embodiment, and detailed description thereof is omitted, and FIGS. 1 to 11 are appropriately referred to.

  Also in the first modification, in addition to the configuration of the first embodiment, a specific process at the time of reading the information code is added as a feature. Specifically, the reading process is performed in the flow as shown in FIG. The reading process in FIG. 19 is a process that is executed on condition that a predetermined start condition is satisfied. As the process starts, the light receiving sensor (imaging unit) 23 continuously captures an imaging range set outside the case. (S211). In S211, the area irradiated with the illumination light is imaged while illuminating the illumination light from the illumination light source 21 (illumination light irradiation unit) shown in FIG. 2 toward the imaging range (see the upper diagram of FIG. 20). When the information code enters the imaging range and the information code is captured, the code image of the captured information code is analyzed (S212). In S212, a known decoding process is attempted on the code image of the information code. When the decoding process is successful, the data recorded in the information code is acquired (S213). The data acquired in S213 (data recorded in the information code) is collated with an expected value stored in advance in the memory 35 (FIG. 2) (S214), and whether or not the data matches the expected value. Judgment is made (S215).

  Also in this configuration, when one or a plurality of expected values are registered in the memory 35 in advance, and the decrypted data obtained in S213 matches the expected value registered in the memory 35, it is OK in S215. Proceed to Conversely, if the decrypted data obtained in S213 does not match the expected value registered in the memory 35, the process proceeds to NG in S215. For example, as the expected value, three product number lists of “1234567890001”, “1234567890002”, and “1234567890003” are stored in the memory 35, and the decryption data of the information code obtained in S213 is “1234567890001”. Since the data matches the expected value, the process proceeds to OK in S215, and the process of S216 is performed. On the other hand, if the decrypted data of the information code obtained in S213 is “1234567890009”, the decrypted data does not match the expected value, so the process proceeds to NG in S215, and the process of S217 is performed.

  When the process proceeds to OK in S215, in S216, the illumination light of the illumination light source 21 that has been irradiated from S211 is turned off, and the blue LED 221a (not shown in FIG. 2) emits blue (first color) light (FIG. 2). 20 (see lower left figure). The fact that the blue light is irradiated in this manner is a signal for the matching of the matching results, so that the user can grasp the matching of the matching results by the blue light. On the other hand, when proceeding to NG in S215, in S217, the illumination light of the illumination light source 21 that has been continuously irradiated from S211 is turned off, and red (second color) light is emitted by the red LED 221b (not shown in FIG. 2). (See the lower right diagram in FIG. 20). Since irradiation with red light in this way is a signal of a mismatch in the collation result, the user can grasp the mismatch in the collation result with the red light. The blue LED 221a and the red LED 221b may be configured as a part of the illumination light source 21 illustrated in FIG. 2 or may be configured separately from the illumination light source 21. When configured separately from the illumination light source 21, the illumination operation may not be performed when the information code is imaged.

  In this configuration, the blue LED 221 a and the red LED 221 b described above correspond to an example of a “light source”, are provided integrally with the case 12, and function to irradiate light outside the case 12. The illumination light source 21 corresponds to an example of an “illumination light irradiating unit” in the present configuration, is configured as a light source different from the “light source”, and functions to irradiate light toward the outside of the case. The imaging unit 23 corresponds to an example of an “imaging unit”, and has a function of imaging the outside of the case 12 in a state where light is emitted toward the outside of the case 12 by the “illumination light irradiation unit”. The control circuit 40 (FIG. 2) corresponds to a “processing unit” and a “decoding unit”, and has a function of decoding data recorded in an information code imaged by the imaging unit 23. Specifically, The “illumination light irradiating unit” functions to decode the code imaged by the imaging unit 23 in a state where light is irradiated outside the case 12. Further, when the control circuit 40 corresponds to an example of a “determination unit” and the decoding result of the information code by the “decoding unit” is in a predetermined success state (in the above example, the decoded data and memory obtained in S213 are And the expected value stored in the memory 35 in the example described above and the expected value stored in the memory 35 (in the above example). Function in the case of not matching). The control circuit 40 corresponds to an example of an “irradiation state control unit”. After the information code is attempted to be decoded by the “decoding unit”, the irradiation state of light from the blue LED and the red LED (light source) is expressed as “ It functions to control the state according to the determination result by the “determination unit”, specifically, when it is determined by the “determination unit” that the predetermined successful state is satisfied (in the above example, in the case of OK in S215) ), A first color irradiation state in which blue (first color) light is emitted from a blue LED and a red LED (light source), and the “determination unit” determines a predetermined failure state (in the above example, S215) In the case of NG), a second color irradiation state in which red (second color) light different from the first color is emitted from the blue LED and the red LED (light source) is used.

  Even with this configuration as described above, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained. Further, even with this configuration, the user can grasp the decoding result of the information code according to the irradiation state of the light from the “light source”. become able to. Furthermore, in this configuration, since the decoding result of the information code can be notified using a light source different from the light source that emits illumination light (illumination light irradiation unit) at the time of imaging by the imaging unit, a light source suitable for notification Can be selected more freely.

  Further, in this configuration, since the notification color in the predetermined success state and the notification color in the predetermined failure state are different, it becomes easier to grasp each state more reliably.

[Second Modification of Second Embodiment]
Next, a second modification of the second embodiment will be described.
The reading device 10 according to the second modification of the second embodiment includes all the features of the first embodiment, and further features are added. Therefore, the configuration shown in FIGS. 1 to 11 is the same as that of the first embodiment, and detailed description thereof is omitted, and FIGS. 1 to 11 are appropriately referred to.

  Also in the second modification, in addition to the configuration of the first embodiment, a specific process at the time of reading the information code is added as a feature. Specifically, the reading process is performed according to a flow as shown in FIG. The reading process in FIG. 21 is a process that is executed on condition that a predetermined start condition is satisfied. As the process starts, the light receiving sensor (imaging unit) 23 continuously captures an imaging range set outside the case. (S221). In S221, the area irradiated with the illumination light is imaged while illuminating the illumination light toward the imaging range from the illumination light source 21 (illumination light irradiation unit) shown in FIG. 2 (see the left figure in FIG. 22A). ). When the information code enters the imaging range and the information code is captured, the code image of the captured information code is analyzed (S222). In S222, a known decoding process is attempted on the code image of the information code, and when the decoding process is successful, the data recorded in the information code is acquired (S223). Then, the data acquired in S223 (data recorded in the information code) is collated with the expected value stored in advance in the memory 35 (FIG. 2) (S224), and whether or not the data matches the expected value. Judgment is made (S225).

  Also in this configuration, when one or a plurality of expected values are registered in the memory 35 in advance, and the decrypted data obtained in S223 matches the expected value registered in the memory 35, it is OK in S225. Proceed to Conversely, if the decrypted data obtained in S223 does not match the expected value registered in the memory 35, the process proceeds to NG in S225. For example, as an expected value, three product number lists of “1234567890001”, “1234567890002”, and “1234567890003” are stored in the memory 35, and the decryption data of the information code obtained in S223 is “1234567890001” Since the data matches the expected value, the process proceeds to OK in S225, and the process of S226 is performed. On the other hand, if the decrypted data of the information code obtained in S223 is “1234567890009”, the decrypted data does not match the expected value, so the process proceeds to NG in S225, and the process of S227 is performed.

  When the process proceeds to OK in S225, in S226, the illumination light of the illumination light source 21 that has been irradiated from S221 is turned off, and the projector 221c (not shown in FIG. 2) configured as a character information display unit corresponds to S226. Character information (character information corresponding to a predetermined success state) is displayed on the screen (the right diagram in FIG. 22A). As the projector 221c constituting the character information display unit, various known configurations can be used as long as the device can display the character information on the screen. The character information displayed in S226 is, for example, information as shown in FIG. 22B. In this example, the decrypted data decrypted in S223 and the information indicating that the collation in S224 is successful (ie, S223). The information indicating that the decrypted data decrypted in step 1 matches the expected value) is displayed as character information. In this way, since the information indicating that the collation is successful is displayed as a cue of matching of the collation results, the user can grasp the coincidence of the collation results with this information. On the other hand, when proceeding to NG in S215, in S217, the illumination light of the illumination light source 21 that has been irradiated from S211 is turned off, and character information corresponding to S227 (predetermined in FIG. 2) is displayed by the character information display unit (not shown in FIG. 2). (Character information corresponding to the failure state) is displayed on the screen (right diagram in FIG. 22A). The character information displayed in S227 is, for example, information as shown in FIG. 22C. In this example, the decrypted data decrypted in S223 and the information indicating that the collation in S224 has failed (ie, S223). Information indicating that the decrypted data decrypted in step 2 does not match the expected value) is displayed as character information. Thus, since the information indicating that the verification has failed is displayed as a signal indicating a mismatch in the verification result, the user can grasp the mismatch in the verification result from this information.

  In this configuration, the character information display unit described above corresponds to an example of a “light source”, is provided integrally with the case 12, and functions to irradiate light outside the case 12. The illumination light source 21 corresponds to an example of an “illumination light irradiating unit” in the present configuration, is configured as a light source different from the “light source”, and functions to irradiate light toward the outside of the case. The imaging unit 23 corresponds to an example of an “imaging unit”, and has a function of imaging the outside of the case 12 in a state where light is emitted toward the outside of the case 12 by the “illumination light irradiation unit”. The control circuit 40 (FIG. 2) corresponds to a “processing unit” and a “decoding unit”, and has a function of decoding data recorded in an information code imaged by the imaging unit 23. Specifically, The “illumination light irradiating unit” functions to decode the code imaged by the imaging unit 23 in a state where light is irradiated outside the case 12. Further, when the control circuit 40 corresponds to an example of a “determination unit” and the decoding result of the information code by the “decoding unit” is in a predetermined success state (in the above example, the decoded data and memory obtained in S213 are And the expected value stored in the memory 35 in the example described above and the expected value stored in the memory 35 (in the above example). Function in the case of not matching). Further, the control circuit 40 corresponds to an example of an “irradiation state control unit”. After the information code is attempted to be decoded by the “decoding unit”, the irradiation state of the light from the character information display unit (light source) is “determined. Function to control the state according to the determination result by the “part”, specifically, when it is determined by the “determination unit” to be either a predetermined success state or a predetermined failure state, the character information The irradiation state of light from the display unit (light source) is set as a first display state in which predetermined information is displayed on the irradiation object irradiated with light from the character information display unit (light source), and the other state Is determined, the irradiation state of the light from the character information display unit (light source) is set to an irradiation state different from the first display state.

  Even with this configuration as described above, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained. Further, even with this configuration, the user can grasp the decoding result of the information code according to the irradiation state of the light from the “light source”. become able to. Further, in this configuration, since information can be displayed outside at least in a predetermined success state or a predetermined failure state, the user is provided from the device even in a situation where it is difficult for the user to see the case. It becomes easy to grasp specific information. For example, as shown in FIGS. 22B and 22C, the first information corresponding to the predetermined success state is displayed in the predetermined success state, and the first information corresponding to the predetermined failure state is displayed in the predetermined failure state. If 2 information is displayed, since the user can grasp | ascertain the decoding result clearly and concretely by each information, the convenience improves more.

  In the second modification, the example in which the character information is displayed both in the predetermined success state and in the predetermined failure state is shown. However, in the predetermined success state, the fact corresponding to the success state is indicated. When character information is displayed and in a predetermined failure state, light may be turned on or blinked without displaying character information. Alternatively, character information corresponding to the failure state may be displayed in a predetermined failure state, and light may be turned on or blinked without displaying the character information in a predetermined success state. .

  In the representative example and each modified example of the second embodiment, the control circuit 40 is provided inside the case 12, and the configuration in which the information code is decoded by the control circuit 40 is exemplified. Even in the configuration, the memory 35, the control circuit 40, the memory similar to the communication unit 48, the control circuit (CPU or the like), and the communication unit are provided in the information processing device (external device) that is communicably connected to the internal device in the case 12. You may do it. Then, the data of the information code image picked up by the image pickup unit 23 in the case 12 is transmitted to the external device by the control circuit 40 and the communication unit 48 (FIG. 2), and is decoded by the control circuit of the external device. You may make it collate with the expected value memorize | stored in the memory of the apparatus. In this case, the control circuit 40 and the communication unit 48 in the case 12 correspond to an example of a processing unit, and the control circuit of the external device corresponds to an example of an external processing unit, a decoding unit, and a determination unit. This external device may be, for example, the external device D connected to the case 12 via a cable as in the third embodiment, or may be an external device connected to the case 12 side by wireless communication. . In any case, the external device is configured as an information processing device including a control circuit (CPU or the like), a memory, a communication unit, and the like, and if the expected value is registered in the memory, the case 12 side (that is, the device) When the image data of the information code is sent from the main body side), this image data is decoded and collated with the expected value, and the collation result (matching with the expected value, mismatching with the expected value, decoding failure, etc.) Can be transmitted to the case 12 side (that is, the apparatus main body side). In this case, the control circuit 40 corresponding to the illumination state control unit may perform the process of S206 or S207 based on the collation result.

  In the representative example and each modified example of the second embodiment, the case where the decoded data of the information code matches the expected value registered in advance is set as the “predetermined success state”, and the case where they do not match is set as the “predetermined failure” However, the present invention is not limited to this example. In any of the examples, success in decoding the information code may be a “predetermined success state”, and failure in decoding the information code may be a “predetermined failure state”. Alternatively, in any example, when encrypted data is recorded in the information code, the fact that the decryption of the encrypted data recorded in the information code has been successfully decrypted is set as a “predetermined successful state” and recorded in the information code. The failure of the decryption of the encrypted data may be defined as a “predetermined failure state”.

  Further, in the representative example and each modified example of the second embodiment, as a method for controlling the irradiation state of light from the light source to a state according to the determination result by the determination unit, the irradiation state in the “predetermined successful state” and The method of generating the two irradiation states so as to switch to the irradiation state at the “predetermined failure state” is exemplified, but three or more different irradiation states may be generated according to the determination result. For example, the “predetermined failure state” described in the representative example and each modification example of the second embodiment may be further divided into a plurality of results, and the irradiation state may be varied depending on each result. For example, the “predetermined failure state” described in the representative example and each modification example of the second embodiment is divided into a decoding failure and a mismatch between the expected value, and in any case, in the case of a decoding failure, It may be blinked at a short time interval, and if it does not match the expected value, it may blink or be lit at a long time interval.

[Third embodiment]
Next, a third embodiment will be described.
The portable information code reader 10 according to the third embodiment is different from the first embodiment only in the form, and the electrical configuration is the same as that in the first embodiment. Therefore, detailed description of the electrical configuration will be omitted, and FIG. 2 will be referred to as appropriate.

(overall structure)
The portable information code reading device 10 having this configuration is mainly composed of a device main body 311 and a mounting portion 360. The apparatus main body 311 includes an imaging unit 23 (such as FIG. 2) that can capture the information code 100, a processing unit (control circuit 40 (FIG. 2)) that processes an image of the information code 100 captured by the imaging unit 23, The configuration includes an imaging unit 23 and a case 312 that holds the processing unit. In addition, it is provided as a separate body from the case 312, and includes a mounting portion 360 that attaches the imaging unit 23 to the user in a configuration that images the side facing the user's face. The mounting portion 360 includes a flexible body mounting portion (mounting portion) 362 that can be bent and deformed, and a mounting portion 366 to which the case 312 is attached and detached, and is configured to be hung on the human body of the user. The case 312 functions to be attached to the user's ear.

First, the configuration of the apparatus main body 311 will be described.
The apparatus main body 311 contains various electronic components shown in FIG. 2 inside the case 312. In this configuration, the apparatus main body 311 can be attached to the mounting portion 360 as shown in FIGS. 30 and 31 can be detached.

  As shown in FIGS. 33 to 35 and the like, the case 312 is formed in a longitudinal and box shape as a whole. In this configuration, the front-rear direction, the width direction (horizontal direction), and the vertical direction of the apparatus main body 311 are defined as follows. First, the center direction (optical axis direction) of the field of view of the imaging unit 23 is the front-rear direction, and the longitudinal direction of the case 312 is the front-rear direction. The thickness direction of the case 312 is the width direction (lateral direction) in the direction orthogonal to the front-rear direction, and the opposite wall portion 312a of the case 312 and the opposite wall portion of the opposite wall portion 312a (front side wall). The direction facing the portion 312b) is the width direction (lateral direction). And the direction orthogonal to the said front-back direction and the width direction is the up-down direction. In the following description, the front-rear direction is the X-axis direction, the up-down direction is the Y-axis direction, and the width direction (lateral direction) is the Z-axis direction. The front direction is the X-axis positive direction, and the rear direction is the X-axis negative direction. Furthermore, the upward direction is the Y-axis positive direction, and the downward direction is the Y-axis negative direction. Then, when viewed from the case 312 side, the attachment portion 360 side is the Z-axis negative direction, and the side opposite to the attachment portion 360 is the Z-axis positive direction.

  As shown in FIGS. 31 and 33 to 35, the case 312 is provided with a front wall portion 312 c at the front end portion and a rear wall portion 312 d at the rear end portion in such a definition. Further, a side wall portion (opposing wall portion 312a) is provided on one side in the width direction (left and right direction) (attachment portion 360 side), and a front side wall portion 312b is provided on the opposite side. Further, a wall portion 312e is provided at one end portion in the vertical direction, and a wall portion 312f is provided at the other end portion in the vertical direction. And the accommodating part which accommodates electronic parts, such as the image pick-up part 23 and the control circuit 40, is a box-shaped composition enclosed by these front wall parts, rear wall parts, side wall parts, wall parts, and wall parts. It is configured.

  In this configuration, the direction in which the face Fa faces with respect to the user's face Fa will be described as the front side of the face Fa, and the occipital side will be described as the back side of the face Fa.

  The case 312 includes a reading port 314 through which light from an information code can be introduced, and a light-transmitting cover member 315 is provided so as to cover the reading port 314. As shown in FIG. 26, FIG. 29, and the like, the case 312 includes an extending portion 317 (a portion extending from the portion contacting the mounting portion 360 to the front side) extending in a predetermined direction from the mounting position on the mounting portion 360. A reading port 314 is provided near the end of the extension 317 opposite to the mounting portion 360. A cover member 315 that covers the reading port 314 is configured as a front wall portion 312c. Then, as shown in FIGS. 23 and 29, the attachment portion 360 is configured such that the case 312 is arranged in a lateral position of the user's face Fa and the reading port 314 faces the front side of the user P. It is configured to be attached to the ear Ey. In this way, the case 312 is attached by the attachment portion 360 so that the imaging portion 23 faces the same side as the user's face.

  In the case 312, the wall portion 312 e on one side in the up-down direction is provided with an operation switch 42 a capable of external operation (for example, pressing operation in the up-down direction), and the wall portion 312 f on the other side has an external operation. An operation switch 42b capable of (for example, a vertical pressing operation) is provided. These operation switches 42a and 42b specifically show the operation switch 42 of FIG. The operation switch 42a functions as a trigger switch, and the operation switch 42b functions as an operation switch other than the trigger switch. The memory 35 stores setting information for specifying which one of the operation switches 42a and 42b functions as a trigger switch and which one functions as another switch. The operation switches 42a and 42b It operates according to this setting information. The setting information can be rewritten by the external device PC when the case 312 is connected to the external device PC such as a computer as shown in FIG.

  In addition, an illumination light source 21 that emits illumination light, a marker light irradiation unit 50 that emits marker light, and an imaging unit 23 that images the outside of the case 312 are provided inside the case 312. Both the illumination light from the illumination light source 21 and the marker light from the marker light irradiation unit 50 are irradiated from the front wall portion 312c to the front side of the case 312 via the reading port 314. In this configuration, the imaging unit 23 and the imaging lens 27 are disposed slightly above the center in the vertical direction, and the light receiving optical axis G is positioned slightly above the center in the vertical direction. The illumination light source 21 is disposed below the center in the vertical direction, and the marker light irradiation unit 50 is disposed between the illumination light source 21 and the imaging unit 23. As shown in FIG. 36, the imaging lens 27, the lens 50a of the marker light irradiation unit 50, and the lens 21a of the illumination light source 21 are disposed at a position closer to the front wall 312c, than the lens 21a of the illumination light source 21. The lens 50a of the marker light irradiation unit 50 is closer to the imaging lens 27 (light receiving lens). Thus, the marker light path can be made closer to the light receiving optical axis G.

Next, the attachment part 360 will be described.
As illustrated in FIGS. 23 to 29 and the like, the attachment portion 360 includes a flexible body attachment portion 362 that can be bent and deformed, and an attachment portion 366 to which the case 312 is attached and detached. Is provided as a separate body. This mounting portion 360 is a portion that is hung on the user's human body and held by the human body, specifically, a portion that protrudes from the neck of the user on the structure of the body (in the following example, By being hung on the both ear portions), it is held by the human body and positioned at a predetermined position of the human body. As shown in FIG. 23, FIG. 29, FIG. 43, etc., the mounting portion 360 has the case 312 disposed in the lateral position of the user's face Fa and the reading port 314 facing the side where the user's face Fa faces. In the configuration, the case 312 is attached to at least the user's ear Ey.

  The body mounting portion 362 is a portion that is mounted at least partially in direct contact with the user, and specifically, is configured as an ear hooking portion that is hung on both ears of the user. As shown in FIGS. 24 to 28, the body wearing part 362 is configured to be maintained in a predetermined shape in a natural state when worn without being attached to the user, and is configured to be elastically deformable and flexible. It has a sex structure. The body mounting part 362 has a configuration in which both ends are respectively connected to a right side mounting part 370 and a left side mounting part 380 described later, and has a substantially U-shaped configuration as a whole. The body wearing portion 362 includes a right ear mounting portion (right ear hooking portion) 362a that is formed in a curved position adjacent to the right wearing portion 370 so as to protrude upward when worn on the user, A left ear mounting portion (left ear hook) 362b formed away from the right ear mounting portion 362a and curved at an adjacent position near the left mounting portion 380 so as to protrude upward, and these right An intermediate connecting portion 362c that connects the ear attaching portion 362a and the left ear attaching portion 362b is provided. The intermediate connecting portion 362c is a portion that is wound around the user's back head or neck when the mounting portion 360 is attached to the user's ear as shown in FIG.

  The mounting portion 366 has a right side mounting portion 370 that is arranged on the right side of the user's face and can be attached to and detached from the case, and a left side mounting portion 380 that is arranged on the left side of the user's face and that can be attached and detached from the case. doing. In this configuration, the body mounting portion 362 extends forward from a right ear attachment portion 362a (the right ear attachment portion 362a corresponds to an example of a supported portion) that is hung on the user's right ear and supported by the right ear. The portion 363a extends to the front side (the side opposite to the intermediate coupling portion 362c). The right mounting portion 370 functions as a holding portion that holds the case 312 by being connected to the front end portion of the front extending portion 363a in the body mounting portion 362. In this configuration, when the attachment portion 360 is attached to the user as shown in FIGS. 23 and 29, the front extension portion 363a is arranged to extend to the front side of the right ear attachment portion 362a (supported portion), and the right side The right mounting part 370 (holding part) is arranged in front of the ear hole of the right ear of the user who supports the ear attaching part 362a (supported part).

  The right mounting part 370 (holding part) includes a back surface part 371 that is supported facing the user's face at a position before the ear hole of the right ear when mounted on the human body as shown in FIGS. And a surface portion 372 disposed on the opposite side of 371. Both the back surface portion 371 and the front surface portion 372 have a flat outer surface. For example, the outer surface of the back surface portion 371 (the surface supported by the user's face) and the outer surface of the surface portion 372 (when the case 312 is attached) The surface in contact with the case 312) is substantially parallel. The thickness between the back surface portion 371 and the front surface portion 372 is larger than the thickness of the right ear mounting portion 362a, and as shown in FIG. 26 and the like, the surface portion 372 side has a right ear mounting portion (right ear hooking portion). ) It protrudes laterally from 362a. The case 312 is held by the surface portion 372 by the right side mounting portion 370 configured as described above. The holding structure will be described in detail later.

  As shown in FIG. 25 and the like, as in the right side, in the body wearing portion 362, the left ear mounting portion 362b (the left ear mounting portion 362b is a portion of the supported portion) that is hung on the left ear of the user and supported by the left ear. The front extension part 363b extends from the front side (corresponding to an example) to the front side (the side opposite to the intermediate coupling part 362c). The left mounting portion 380 functions as a holding portion that is connected to the front end portion of the front extending portion 363 b in the body mounting portion 362 and holds the case 312. In this configuration, when the attachment portion 360 is attached to the user as shown in FIGS. 23, 29, 44, and 46, the front extension portion 363b is located on the front side of the left ear attachment portion 362b (supported portion). The left mounting part 380 (holding part) is arranged in front of the ear hole of the left ear of the user who extends and is arranged and supports the left ear attaching part 362b (supported part).

  The left mounting portion 380 (holding portion) is a back surface that is supported facing the user's face at a position before the ear hole of the left ear when mounted on a human body as shown in FIGS. 23, 29, 44, and 46. A portion 381 and a surface portion 382 disposed on the opposite side of the back surface portion 381. Both the back surface portion 381 and the front surface portion 382 have a flat outer surface. For example, the outer surface of the back surface portion 381 (the surface supported by the user's face) and the outer surface of the surface portion 382 (when the case 312 is attached) The surface in contact with the case 312) is substantially parallel. The thickness between the back surface portion 381 and the front surface portion 382 is larger than the thickness of the left ear mounting portion 362b, and as shown in FIG. 24 and the like, the front surface portion 382 side has a left ear mounting portion (left ear hooking portion). ) It protrudes laterally from 362a. The case 312 is held by the surface portion 382 by the left mounting portion 380 configured as described above. The holding structure will be described in detail later.

  31, 32, and 34, the guide portion 350 removably connects the case 312 to each mounting portion 366 provided on the mounting portion 360, and each mounting portion 366 is connected at the time of the connection. It functions to guide the case 312 so that the posture of the case 312 becomes a predetermined posture. The guide portion 350 is provided on two case side connecting portions (first case side connecting portion 351 and second case side connecting portion 352) provided on the case 312 side, and on the right mounting portion side (right mounting portion 370 side). At least two right connection portions (first right connection portion 373a, second right connection portion 373b) provided and at least two left connection portions (first attachment portion provided on the left mounting portion side (left mounting portion 380 side)). A left side connecting portion 383a and a second left side connecting portion 383b). And at least two case side connection parts (first case side connection part 351 and second case side connection part 352) and at least two right side connection parts (first right side connection part 373a, second right side connection part 373b). By being connected to each other, the case 312 is attached to the right mounting part 370, and at least two case side connection parts (first case side connection part 351 and second case side connection part 352) and at least two left side connection parts (first 1 left connecting portion 383a and second left connecting portion 383b) are connected to each other so that case 312 is attached to the left mounting portion (first left connecting portion 383a and second left connecting portion 383b). .

  As shown in FIG. 31, FIG. 32, and FIG. 34, in this configuration, two case side connecting portions (first case side connecting portion 351 and second case side connecting portion 352) and two right side connecting portions (first right side connecting portion). 373a and the second right connecting portion 373b) correspond to the first guide portion, and the case 312 is detachably connected to the right mounting portion 370 and the case 312 is connected to the right mounting portion 370. The case 312 is guided so that the posture of the case 312 with respect to the right mounting portion 370 becomes the first predetermined posture. In addition, two case side connecting portions (first case side connecting portion 351 and second case side connecting portion 352) and two left side connecting portions (first left side connecting portion 383a and second left side connecting portion 383b) The case 312 is detachably connected to the left mounting portion 380 and the case 312 is connected to the left mounting portion 380 when the case 312 is connected to the left mounting portion 380. Guide to a predetermined posture.

  As shown in FIGS. 31, 32, and 34, in this configuration, as the two case-side coupling portions, the first case-side coupling portion 351 configured as a permanent magnet and the second case-side coupling configured as a permanent magnet. Part 352 is provided. Further, as the two right side connecting portions, a first right side connecting portion 373a configured as a permanent magnet and a second right side connecting portion 373b configured as a permanent magnet are provided, and as the two left side connecting portions, as a permanent magnet A first left connecting portion 383a configured and a second left connecting portion 383b configured as a permanent magnet are provided. The first case-side connecting portion 351 has a polarity different from that of the first right-side connecting portion 373a and the first left-side connecting portion 383a, and has the same polarity as the second right-side connecting portion 373b and the second left-side connecting portion 383b. The second case-side connecting portion 352 has a polarity different from that of the second right-side connecting portion 373b and the second left-side connecting portion 383b, and has the same polarity as the first right-side connecting portion 373a and the first left-side connecting portion 383a.

  In this configuration, the first case side connecting portion 351 and the first right side connecting portion 373a have different polarities, and the first case side connecting portion 351 and the first right side connecting portion 373a are connected to each other by suction. It has become. For example, the first case side connecting part 351 is configured as a permanent magnet whose surface part is configured as an N pole, and the first right side connecting part 373a is configured as a permanent magnet whose surface part is configured as an S pole. When the surface portions of each other face each other, they suck each other. In addition, the second case side connecting portion 352 and the second right side connecting portion 373b have different polarities, and the second case side connecting portion 352 and the second right side connecting portion 373b are connected to each other by suction. ing. For example, the second case side connecting portion 352 is configured as a permanent magnet whose surface portion is configured as an S pole, and the second right side connecting portion 373b is configured as a permanent magnet whose surface portion is configured as an N pole. When the surface portions of each other face each other, they suck each other.

  Furthermore, the first case side connecting portion 351 and the second right side connecting portion 373b have the same polarity, and the second case side connecting portion 352 and the first right side connecting portion 373a have the same polarity. In the above example, the first case side connecting portion 351 has a surface portion configured as an N pole, and the second right side connecting portion 373b also has a surface portion configured as an N pole. Sometimes they are repelling each other. The second case side connecting portion 352 has a surface portion configured as an S pole, and the first right side connecting portion 373a also has a surface portion configured as an S pole. It comes to meet each other.

  Similar to the right side, the polarities of the first case side connecting part 351 and the first left side connecting part 383a are different from each other, and the first case side connecting part 351 and the first left side connecting part 383a are sucked and connected to each other. It has a configuration. For example, the first case side connecting portion 351 is configured as a permanent magnet whose surface portion is configured as an N pole, and the first left side connecting portion 383a is configured as a permanent magnet whose surface portion is configured as an S pole. When the surface portions of each other face each other, they suck each other. In addition, the second case side connecting portion 352 and the second left side connecting portion 383b have different polarities, and the second case side connecting portion 352 and the second left side connecting portion 383b are connected to each other by suction. ing. For example, the second case side connecting portion 352 is configured as a permanent magnet whose surface portion is configured as an S pole, and the second left side connecting portion 383b is configured as a permanent magnet whose surface portion is configured as an N pole. When the surface portions of each other face each other, they suck each other.

  Furthermore, the first case side connecting portion 351 and the second left side connecting portion 383b have the same polarity, and the second case side connecting portion 352 and the first left side connecting portion 383a have the same polarity. In the above example, the first case side connecting portion 351 has a surface portion configured as an N pole, and the second left side connecting portion 383b also has a surface portion configured as an N pole. Sometimes they are repelling each other. The second case side connecting portion 352 has a surface portion configured as an S pole, and the first left side connecting portion 383a also has a surface portion configured as an S pole. It comes to meet each other.

  Such a guide portion 350 allows the case 312 to be attached to each mounting portion 366, and the orientation of the case 312 (that is, the orientation in the reading direction) is stabilized at the time of attachment. Further, by the mounting portion 366 and the guide portion 350, a front portion of the case 312 (an extension portion extending forward from the portion supported by the mounting portion 366 in the case 312) extends at least forward from the user's ear. The configuration allows the case 312 to be attached to the user's ear.

  Further, the side wall portion (opposing wall portion 312 a) on the user side of the case 312 is configured to be fitted to the right fitting portion (surface portion 372) formed in the right mounting portion 370, and the left mounting portion 380. A stepped portion 313 (fitting portion) having a shallow bottom hole shape (specifically, a shape recessed on the inner side of the case) configured to be fitted to the left fitting portion (surface portion 382) formed in When the case 312 is attached to the right mounting portion 370, the step portion 313 (fitting portion) and the right fitted portion (surface portion 372) are fitted, and the case 312 is attached to the left mounting portion 380. When attached, the stepped portion 313 (fitting portion) and the left fitting portion (surface portion 382) are fitted. And two case side connection parts 351 and 352 are arranged at the back bottom part of the step part 313 having a concave shape, and the surface part 372 or the surface part 382 enters the inside of the recess of the step part 313 at the time of fitting, It is adapted to come into contact with the bottom of the step portion 313. Thereby, not only the position holding by the magnet but also the position holding by fitting is performed, and the case 312 is not easily displaced greatly at the time of mounting. In particular, the structure is highly effective in suppressing displacement when the operation switch 42a or the operation switch 42b is pressed.

  In addition, a plurality of lead-out holes 320 for leading out sound are formed in the wall portion (opposing wall portion 312a) on the side where the case 312 is attached to the attachment portion 360. The lead-out hole 320 functions as a sound emission hole for leading to the outside the sound emitted from the sound generation unit 44 (speaker or the like: FIG. 2) provided inside the case 312. In this configuration, when the case 312 is attached to the attachment portion 360, at least a part (for example, all of the lead-out holes 320) is covered by a covering portion (specifically, the surface portions 372 and 382) that forms a part of the attachment portion 360. When the case 312 is detached from the attachment portion 360 and removed, a portion of the lead-out hole 320 that is covered with the covering portion is exposed at the time of attachment. For example, as shown in FIG. 23 and the like, when the case 312 is attached to the right mounting portion 370, the entire surface of the outlet hole 320 is covered with the surface portion 372 of the right mounting portion 370 so that sound emission is suppressed. It has become. On the other hand, when such a mounting state is released and the case 312 is detached from the right side mounting portion 370 and removed, a portion of the lead-out hole 320 that is covered with the surface portion 372 is exposed. The same applies to the left side. When the case 312 is attached to the left mounting part 380, the entire surface of the outlet hole 320 is covered with the surface part 382 of the left mounting part 380 so that sound emission is suppressed. . On the other hand, when the case 312 is removed from the left mounting portion 380 after the attachment state is released, a portion of the lead-out hole 320 that is covered with the surface portion 382 is exposed. Note that the position of the two-dot chain line 366a in FIG. 34 is a position that contacts the surface portion 372 or the surface portion 382 when the case 312 is attached to the mounting portion 366 and is covered by the surface portion 372 or the surface portion 382.

  Further, in this configuration, as shown in FIGS. 33 to 35, the apparatus main body 311 can be detached from the attachment portion 360, and the apparatus main body 311 can be used or maintained separately from the attachment portion 360. The apparatus main body 311 has a configuration in which a holding member 390 for holding the cable 302 is attached to the case 312. The holding member 390 can be attached and detached as shown in FIGS. It has become a structure. Further, the holding member 390 is formed with a cable support portion 391 that is fitted to the cable 302 and supports the cable 302. As shown in FIG. 35, the cable 302 is detached from the cable support portion 391 and used. As shown in FIG. 38 and FIG. 41, the cable 302 can be held and used by the cable support portion 391 and can be managed. In this configuration, as shown in FIG. 42, the cable support portion 391 is disposed at a position directly behind the attached portion (the portion held by the attachment portion 360 in the case 312). Is held near the center of the moment, so that even if the cable 302 is pulled, the orientation of the case 312 is unlikely to change as indicated by the arrow.

  When the reading device 10 is attached to the user, as shown in FIGS. 39 and 40, the attachment portion 360 is first put on both ears of the user, and then, for example, as shown in FIGS. If the apparatus main body 311 is attached to any one of the left mounting parts 380, it can be attached quickly and easily. Further, the present invention is not limited to this method, and the reader 10 may be attached to the user after being assembled as shown in FIG.

  Next, the reading process will be described. The reading apparatus 10 according to this configuration can also perform information code reading processing continuously each time a predetermined trigger condition is satisfied or after a predetermined start condition is satisfied. For example, when the operation switch is pressed, the imaging start trigger is used, and after the operation switch is pressed, the imaging process is continuously performed by the imaging unit 23, and the information code is read each time the information code enters the imaging range. It may be. Alternatively, reading may be started on the condition that a predetermined state is detected by a sensor different from the operation switch 42 (various sensor units 46 described in the first embodiment, other embodiments, and the like). For example, a known proximity sensor that detects the proximity of an object in the forward direction of the case 312 is provided, and when the object approaches, the illumination light source 21, the marker light irradiation unit 50, and the imaging unit 23 are operated to capture and decode May be performed.

  Alternatively, the voice input from the microphone is analyzed, and it is determined whether or not the voice corresponds to the predetermined voice (for example, whether or not a volume of a predetermined amount or more is detected or whether or not a voice having a predetermined waveform is detected). do it. This determination process may be performed by the reading device 10 or an external device.

  Such processing can also be performed according to a flow as shown in FIG. 43, for example. In the example of FIG. 43, for example, when there is a voice input from a microphone provided in the apparatus main body 311, the voice data is transmitted from the reading device 10 to an information terminal such as a smartphone. And when this information terminal receives transmission of audio data from the reader 10, it transmits the audio data to the management server via a communication line such as the Internet. Then, the management server analyzes the voice data and converts it into information such as characters and symbols, and transmits the converted information (decoding information obtained by decoding the voice) to the information terminal again. A plurality of commands are prepared in advance in the information terminal, and when the decryption information transmitted from the management server corresponds to any command, an instruction is given to transmit the command to the reading device 10. . In such a configuration, for example, when the information “start” is a start command registered in the information terminal, when the user utters the voice “start”, the voice is analyzed by the management server, Thereafter, decrypted information “start” after analysis is transmitted to the information terminal. When the information terminal receives such information (decoding information corresponding to the start command) from the management server, the information terminal transmits instruction information instructing the reading start to the reading device 10, and the reading device 10 receives the information from the information terminal. The reading process is started by receiving such instruction information as a trigger.

  The reading apparatus according to this configuration is not limited to the mounting method and the usage method as shown in FIGS. 23 and 29, and can be used in various usage methods. For example, the external device D (FIG. 47) connected to the cable 302 may be used on the waist as shown in FIG. 23, or used in the chest pocket of the user as shown in FIG. May be. 45 and 46, the apparatus main body 311 may be temporarily or continuously removed from the attachment portion 360 and used for reading. In this case, as shown in FIGS. The device D can be placed in various places.

  Further, in this configuration, as shown in FIG. 47, the cable 302 is detachably attached to the external device D (external device used when the reading operation is used), and as shown in FIG. It can be connected to an external device PC that is removed from the external device D and different from the external device D. Although there are various functions of the external device D, it may function as a supply source for supplying power to the device main body 311 and information from the device main body 311 (decoded data when the information code is decoded by the device main body 311). May function as a storage medium for storing. Alternatively, a control circuit such as a CPU may be mounted on the external device D, and the code image captured by the imaging unit 23 may be decoded by the external device D.

In this configuration, the attachment portion 360 is configured as a separate body from the case 312 and is disposed on the right side of the user's face, and is disposed on the right side of the user's face and on the left side of the user's face. And a left mounting portion to which the case can be attached and detached.
According to this configuration, the case can be mounted on the right side or the left side of the user's face, and the degree of freedom of mounting is increased.

The attachment portion 360 is a right ear attachment portion attached to the user's right ear, a left ear attachment portion attached to the user's left ear, and a connecting portion that connects the right ear attachment portion and the left ear attachment portion. And have.
According to this configuration, since the attachment portion is attached to both ears, the stability at the time of wearing increases, and it becomes easier to link the movement of the face and the case more stably. Further, since the case can be attached to the ear, it is easy to attach to the human body even when other wearing tools (such as a helmet or glasses) are used.

In addition, a magnet is arranged in one of the case and the mounting portion, and a suction portion that is attracted by the magnet is arranged in the other. When the case is attached to the right attachment portion, the case and the right attachment When the case is mounted on the left side mounting part, the case and the left side mounting part are held by suction between the magnet and the suction part. .
According to this structure, even when the case is attached to the right side or the left side of the face, the case can be easily attached using the attractive force of the magnet. Moreover, it becomes easy to remove or replace the case from the mounting portion.

Also, the case or other parts assembled to the case can be fitted to the right mating part formed on the right mounting part and can be mated to the left mating part formed on the left mounting part. When the case is attached to the right mounting part, the fitting part and the right mating part are fitted, and when the case is attached to the left mounting part, the fitting part is formed. It is the structure which a part and a left side fitting part fit.
In this configuration, even when the case is attached to the right side of the face or the left side, the case is attached in a fitted state, so that the case is less likely to be displaced.

In addition, the first guide that guides the case so that the case with respect to the right mounting part becomes the first predetermined attitude when the case is detachably connected to the right mounting part and the case is connected to the right mounting part. And a second guide that guides the case so that the posture of the case with respect to the left mounting portion becomes a second predetermined posture when the case is connected to the left mounting portion and the case is connected to the left mounting portion. And a guide portion.
In this configuration, the case posture with respect to the attachment portion can be stably determined regardless of whether the case is attached to the right side or the left side of the face.

Further, the guide portion includes at least two case side connecting portions provided in the case, at least two right connecting portions provided in the right mounting portion, and at least two left connecting portions provided in the left mounting portion, The case is attached to the right mounting portion by connecting at least two case-side connecting portions and at least two right-side connecting portions, and at least two case-side connecting portions and at least two left-side connecting portions are provided. And the case are connected to the left mounting portion.
According to this configuration, even when the case is attached to the right side of the face or the left side, the two connection portions provided in the case (with respect to at least two connection portions defined in the attachment portion) (Case side connecting portion) is connected so as to be matched, and therefore, it becomes easier to set the case more accurately so that the direction of the case faces a desired direction.

In addition, as the two case side connection portions, a first case side connection portion configured as a permanent magnet and a second case side connection portion configured as a permanent magnet are provided, and as the two right side connection portions, a permanent magnet A first right connecting portion configured as a permanent magnet, a second right connecting portion configured as a permanent magnet, and as two left connecting portions, a first left connecting portion configured as a permanent magnet, and a permanent magnet And a first case-side connecting part having a polarity different from that of the first right-side connecting part and the first left-side connecting part, and a second right-side connecting part and a second left-side connecting part. The polarity is the same, and the second case side connecting portion has a different polarity from the second right connecting portion and the second left connecting portion, and the same polarity as the first right connecting portion and the first left connecting portion.
In this configuration, whether the case is mounted on the right side or the left side of the face, the case can be guided more strongly and more accurately to an appropriate position by using the force with which the magnets attract at least two positions. It is possible to reduce the burden of alignment and connection. Furthermore, even when the case is attached to the right side of the face or the left side, when the connection parts that do not correspond are attached so as to match each other, the connection parts that do not correspond have the same polarity. The connecting parts repel each other at the position, and are not connected. Therefore, whether the case is mounted on the right side or the left side of the face, it is easier to align the case with the mounting portion more accurately and quickly when it is in the correct orientation. This abnormal connection can be prevented more reliably.

In addition, the attachment portion is supported by being supported on one of the user's ears, a front extending portion extending from the supported portion, a holding portion connected to the front extending portion and holding the case At the time of attachment when the attachment portion is attached to the user, the front extension portion is arranged to extend to the front side of the supported portion, and is held at a position in front of the ear hole of the ear that supports the supported portion. The part is arranged.
In this configuration, the holding portion that holds the case is disposed in front of the user's ear canal, and thus the holding portion does not easily block the user's ear canal.

The holding portion includes a back surface portion facing the user's face at a position before the ear canal and a surface portion disposed on the opposite side of the back surface portion, and is configured to hold the case by the surface portion. ing.
In this configuration, since the case is held by the surface portion arranged at a position away from the user's face, the case held by the surface portion is less likely to block the user's ear canal.

In addition, a lead-out hole that leads out sound is formed in the wall portion of the case that is attached to the attachment portion. When the case is attached to the attachment portion, it is led out by a covering portion that forms a part of the attachment portion. At least a part of the hole is covered, and when the case is removed after being detached from the attachment portion, a portion of the lead-out hole that is covered by the covering portion at the time of attachment is exposed.
In this configuration, when the case is placed near the face, the sound can be relatively suppressed by closing the outlet hole, even when the sound source is near the user's ear, It can suppress that a loud sound reaches a user too much. On the other hand, when the case is not worn easily away from the face, the sound can be made relatively loud by exposing the lead-out hole, even if the sound source is some distance away from the user's ear Makes it easier for people to reach.

[Other Embodiments]
The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described with reference to the above description and drawings. For example, the following embodiments are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

  In addition to the configuration of the first embodiment, a cable support portion that supports the cable may be provided. In the example of FIG. 1 and the like, the attachment portion 60 is provided on one wall portion side (side wall portion 13b side) of the case 12, but the wall portion (side wall portion 13a) opposite to the one wall portion of the case 12 is provided. The cable support part which supports the cable 80 pulled out from the case 12 may be formed in the position on the back side of the attachment part 60 in FIG. For example, you may make it provide the cyclic | annular through-hole part fixed to the side wall part 13a integrally with the side wall part 13a in the position of the operation switch 42 shown in FIG. Or you may make it fix the cable 80 pulled out from the other position to the position of the back side of the attaching part 60 with a fastening member or a fixing jig. Alternatively, the cable 80 may be held by a part of the case 12 (for example, a hole through which the cable 80 is conducted) such that the position where the cable 80 is pulled out is the position behind the attachment portion 60. In this configuration, even if the case 12 is pulled to some extent, the cable 80 is received on the back side of the attachment portion 60 that becomes the center of rotation, and a moment around the vicinity of the attachment portion 60 does not easily occur, so the case 12 is difficult to rotate. . Therefore, the relative orientation of the entire reading apparatus with respect to the user's face is easily maintained stably. In the configuration of the first embodiment or the second embodiment, the cable 80 may be held using the holding member 390 similar to that of the third embodiment.

  Any of the ear hooks used in the above embodiment may be provided so as to be displaceable with respect to a part of the case or a connecting part connected to the case. For example, the ear hook 62 illustrated in the first embodiment may be provided so as to be displaceable with respect to a part of the case 12 or a connecting part (for example, the ear insertion part 61) connected to the case 12. For example, the ear insertion part 61 shown in FIG. 9 is configured to be rotatable about the rotation axis in the width direction (Z direction) with respect to the case 12 and the ear hooking part 62 is attached to the left ear of the user. Positioning may be possible at one position and a second position when the ear hook 62 is attached to the right ear of the user. Alternatively, even if the ear hook 62 is fixed to the ear insert 61 as shown in FIG. 9A, the shape of the fixed ear hook 62 (shape other than the fixed position) can be variously deformed. Good. In this case, it is preferable that the shape is determined in each deformed state unless a strong force is applied. According to this configuration, the reading device can be easily attached to the right ear and the left ear of the user, and when attaching to each ear, the position of the ear hooking portion 62 can be easily positioned at a position corresponding to the ear. . Further, the idea that the ear hooking portion can be displaced or deformed can be applied to the third embodiment and other embodiments.

  In the first embodiment, the sensor unit 46 is provided inside or outside the case 12, but in the first embodiment or any other embodiment, the processing unit has a predetermined detection result at least by the sensor unit 46. The information code may be decoded on the condition that it is obtained. In any embodiment, for example, the sensor unit 46 is configured to detect a predetermined state in which the attachment unit 60 is attached to the user's ear, and the sensor unit 46 detects a predetermined state (proximity or contact of the ear is detected). On the condition that the illumination light source 21 and the marker light irradiation unit 50 are detected, and the imaging unit 23 starts imaging, and the processing unit decodes the information code accordingly. You may do it. In addition, the configuration in which the sensor unit 46 detects the predetermined state attached to the user's ear is not limited to the above-described example. For example, the sensor unit 46 is configured by a multi-axis acceleration sensor (triaxial acceleration sensor or the like), An acceleration sensor (such as a three-axis acceleration sensor) is in a predetermined acceleration state for a certain period of time (for example, an acceleration state in which any axis has an acceleration change amount within a certain value and almost no movement is detected) The “predetermined state” may be used. Alternatively, it may be configured by a three-axis sensor or the like, and irradiation or decoding may be started with a “predetermined state” when gravity acceleration occurs in a predetermined direction. Alternatively, a predetermined acceleration change due to the impact may be detected on the assumption that a command is given by impact due to tooth meshing or a foot lifting / lowering motion.

  In any configuration of any of the embodiments, the imaging unit 23 continuously or intermittently captures an image outside the case 12 after a predetermined start condition is satisfied, for example, after turning on the power or after pressing the operation switch 42. The processing unit is configured to take an image, and the processing unit performs the imaging by the imaging unit 23 after the condition is satisfied, on condition that the image captured by the imaging unit 23 is in a predetermined state when such continuous or intermittent imaging is performed. The imaged information code may be decoded. As a method of detecting a captured image by such an image pickup unit 23 (camera), detection of gesture instructions (goo, choki, par, etc. that change the movement of the hand), motion detection (moving during operation) , Continuation of a predetermined still image is detected because there is no movement when reading the code), monitoring the image without using the indicator illumination with an object such as a setting QR code, detection of what appears to be a code, detection of a finger, etc. It is done. Alternatively, a state in which the total luminance value of all the pixels constituting the image becomes a predetermined value or more may be set as a “predetermined state”, and a state in which the total luminance value of all the pixels constituting the image becomes a predetermined value or less It is good also as "state". In this configuration, until the image captured by the imaging unit 23 is in a predetermined state, the decoding process by the processing unit can be stopped to save power, and the image of the predetermined state is captured by the imaging unit 23. By taking such measures, it is possible to return to the decoding start state.

  In any configuration of any of the embodiments, voice input from the microphone 43 may be used as a trigger for decoding or lighting start. In this case, the sound input from the microphone 43 is analyzed and it is determined whether or not the sound corresponds to the predetermined sound. If so, the operation of the illumination light source 21, the operation of the marker light irradiation unit 50, the operation of the imaging unit 23, What is necessary is just to decode the information code by a captured image. Alternatively, when the sound volume of the input sound from the microphone 43 exceeds a certain value, the operation of the illumination light source 21, the operation of the marker light irradiation unit 50, the operation of the imaging unit 23, and the decoding of the information code by the captured image are performed. May be. Note that the processing for determining the voice input from the microphone 43 may be performed by the reading device 10 or an external device.

  In any of the embodiments, the reading port is extended to the vicinity of the eyes, and a blink detection sensor is provided as the sensor unit 46 as shown in FIG. 13, and irradiation and decoding are performed on condition that a predetermined detection result is obtained by the blink detection sensor. You may start. In this case, an instruction can be given according to the number of blinks or the time during which the eyes are closed. The blink detection sensor functioning as the sensor unit 46 may be configured as shown in FIG. 12, for example, and may detect a state where the eyelashes block light and the light returns to the light receiving element as a blink occurrence state.

  In any configuration of any of the embodiments, a known distance measuring sensor (laser method, ultrasonic method, etc.) is provided to detect whether an object is disposed within a predetermined distance on the front side of the reading device 10. Also good. In this case, on the condition that a predetermined detection result is obtained by the distance measuring sensor, the imaging by the imaging unit 23, the operation of the illumination light source 21 and the marker light irradiation unit 50, and the decoding of the captured image may be started.

  In any configuration of any of the embodiments, a myoelectric sensor may be used to detect a change in facial muscles (cheek muscle, laugh muscle, etc.). In this case, on the condition that a predetermined detection result is obtained by the myoelectric sensor, imaging by the imaging unit 23, operations of the illumination light source 21 and the marker light irradiation unit 50, and decoding of the captured image may be started.

In 1st Embodiment, although the ear insertion part 61 and the ear hook part 62 were provided as the attaching part 60, in any structure using an ear insertion part or an ear hook part, an ear insertion part, an ear hook part, or these Both may be removable. As an example, for example, the ear insertion portion 61 configured as an earphone can be made detachable as shown in FIGS. In the example of FIG. 14, a terminal 69 is provided in an ear insertion portion 61 configured as an earphone, and this terminal 69 can be inserted into a hole (terminal) 18 formed in the case. When the terminal 69 is inserted into the hole 18, an audio signal is transmitted from the case 12 side to the ear insertion portion 61 side, and sound is emitted from the ear insertion portion 61 based on this audio signal. On the other hand, as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, when the earphone is not inserted into the hole 18 (for example, when nothing is inserted into the hole 18, or the medium to which the audio signal is transmitted is inserted). If not, information can be notified by an information not shown (not shown) provided on the case 12 side. The information notification unit may be, for example, a speaker. In this case, when the ear insertion unit 61 is not inserted into the hole 18, a sound is emitted from the speaker instead of the ear insertion unit 61. In addition, the information notification unit may be a display unit (a monitor, a lamp, or the like), a vibrator, or the like. Further, when the ear insertion part 61 is inserted into the hole 18, the information notification part may or may not perform information notification.
According to this configuration, the attachment portion is removed from the case, and for example, it can be easily used as a hand-held type. Further, even when the attachment portion is removed and used, information can be notified, and convenience is further enhanced.
Also, as shown in FIG. 14 and FIG. 15, the ear insertion part and the ear hook part can be attached and detached so that the attachment part can be exchanged for each user. Therefore, it is useful for a user who does not want to use a part used by another person for attachment to the ear. In addition, it is possible to replace the ear insertion portion and the ear hook portion with a large number of sizes.
14 and 15, when the ear insertion portion is configured to be detachable, the side wall portion 13b has a hole having the same configuration and function as the hole 18 (hole for inserting the terminal 69) as shown in FIG. It may be formed on the side wall portion 13a on the opposite side to that so that the terminal 69 can be inserted. In this case, when attaching to the right ear, the terminal 69 of the ear insertion portion 61 is fixed so as to be inserted into the hole 18, and when attaching to the left ear, the terminal 69 of the ear insertion portion 61 is defined as the hole 18. What is necessary is just to fix so that it may insert in the hole of the other side.
In addition, when the ear insertion part 61 or the ear hooking part 62 or both of them are detachable as in the configuration of FIGS. 14 and 15 described above, after removing any one of these attachment parts or both attachment parts, You may make it attach the other attachment member different from the removed said attachment part. For example, the example of FIG. 16 shows an example in which an attachment member (clip) 160 is attached to the case 12 instead of the ear insertion part 61 when the ear insertion part 61 is detachable as shown in FIGS. Yes. The mounting member 160 is provided with an elastic member 162 such as an elastically deformable metal material, one end 162a of the elastic member 162 is fixed to the main body 164, and the other end 162b side is configured to be able to bend and deform. The main body 164 is biased toward the side in contact with it. And an object can be inserted | pinched between the other end part 162b and the main-body part 164. FIG. Therefore, if the attachment member 160 is used while being fixed to the case 12, the case 12 can be attached to clothes or the like by using it as a clip.
In this way, it is more advantageous in terms of convenience to be configured to be exchangeable so that any one of the attachment portions or the other attachment portions can be removed and another component having another function can be attached.

  In any configuration of any of the embodiments, the sound generation unit 44 similar to that of the first embodiment is provided, and the sound emitted from the sound generation unit 44 (for example, the sound emitted from the ear insertion unit 61 configured as an earphone). A volume adjusting unit for adjusting the volume may be provided. For example, an operation unit such as a knob or a volume adjustment button (a volume increase button, a volume decrease button, etc.) is provided on the case 12, and when an increase instruction is given by this operation unit, the sound from the sound generation unit 44 is transmitted by a known method. If the instruction is given by the operation unit to decrease, the sound from the sound generation unit 44 may be decreased by a known method. According to this configuration, the volume of the sound emitted from the information code reading device can be adjusted within the device.

  In the first embodiment and the like, the control circuit 40 is illustrated as an example of the processing unit, and a configuration in which the code image of the information code is decoded as processing of the information code image captured by the imaging unit by the control circuit 40 is illustrated. However, in any configuration of any embodiment, the processing of the image of the information code captured by the imaging unit is not limited to this. For example, a process of transmitting image data of an information code imaged by an imaging unit to an external device (an external device connected to the device main body with a cable or an external device not connected to the device main body with a cable). Also good. In this case, the image data may be decoded on the external device side to which the information code image is transmitted. Accordingly, a control circuit of an external device (specifically, an external device configured as an information processing device including a control circuit (CPU or the like), a memory, or the like) can function as an external processing unit.

  As a representative example and modification of the second embodiment, the configuration including all of the features of the first embodiment has been illustrated. However, in the configuration including all of the features of the third embodiment, a representative example or modification of the second embodiment. You may perform control like an example. Alternatively, in any of the configurations described in the other embodiments, the control as in the representative example or the modified example of the second embodiment may be performed.

  In the above embodiment, an example in which the sound generation unit 44 (FIG. 2) such as a speaker or an earphone is provided is shown. However, in any configuration of any embodiment, the driving method of the sound generation unit 44 is a dynamic type or a magnetic type. Various known driving methods such as balanced armature type, hybrid type, piezoelectric type, crystal type, and electrostatic type can be used. In any configuration of any of the embodiments, the driving method of the sound generating unit 44 may be any driving method that can transmit sound to the user. For example, bone conduction that transmits sound to the user by bone conduction. It may be a type of speaker or earphone.

  In any configuration of any of the embodiments, the image data of the information code imaged by the imaging unit 23 is transmitted from the case side (that is, the apparatus main body side) to the external device (for example, the external device D of the third embodiment), Decoding may be performed by an external device. In any configuration of any of the embodiments, the information code imaged by the imaging unit 23 may be decoded in the case (that is, in the apparatus main body), and the decoded data obtained by the decoding may be transmitted to the external device. . In this case, the external device collates, for example, whether or not the decrypted data matches the registered data registered in advance in the external device or other device provided to be communicable with the external device, and the collation result is obtained. What is necessary is just to transmit to the case side (apparatus main body side).

  In any configuration of any of the embodiments, the battery may be provided in a case attached to the body, and an external device connected to the case via a cable (for example, the external device D of the third embodiment). Etc.).

  In the third embodiment, the attachment portion 360 provided with the right attachment portion 370 and the left attachment portion 380 has been illustrated. However, in any configuration of the third embodiment or other embodiments having similar attachment portions, the attachment portion 360 is attached. The part may be configured only on the right side mounting part or only on the left side mounting part (that is, may be configured such that the mounting part for attaching the case is provided only on one of the ear sides). In this case, only one of the mounting portions may be omitted from the configuration of the attachment portion 360 of the third embodiment.

  In the third embodiment, the configuration in which the magnets are arranged in both the case 312 and the attachment portion 360 is illustrated, but the magnet is arranged in one of them, and the other is a magnetic body such as iron (attraction attracted by the magnet). Part) may be arranged. For example, on the case 312 side, the same magnets (first case side connecting part 351 and second case side connecting part 352) as in the third embodiment are arranged, and the first right connecting part 373a of the right mounting part 370 is arranged. The second right connecting portion 373b and the first left connecting portion 383a and the second left connecting portion 383b of the left mounting portion 380 may be replaced with a magnetic material such as iron. Even in this case, when the case 312 is mounted on the right mounting portion 370, the case 312 and the right mounting portion 370 are connected to the magnet (the first case side connecting portion 351 and the second case side connecting portion 352) and the suction portion ( When the case 312 is attached to the left attachment portion 380, the case 312 and the left attachment portion 380 are magnetized (first case). The case 312 is held by suction with the first right connection portion 373a and the second right connection portion 373b). The side connection portion 351 and the second case side connection portion 352) and the suction portion (the first left side connection portion 383a and the second left side connection portion 383b) are held. Alternatively, a magnetic body (attraction part) such as iron may be disposed on the case 312 side, and a magnet may be disposed on the attachment part 360 side. For example, the first case side connecting portion 351 and the second case side connecting portion 352 are made of a magnetic material (suction portion) such as iron, and the first right side connecting portion 373a, the second right side connecting portion 373b, and the first left side connecting portion 383a. The second left connecting portion 383b may be a magnet similar to that of the third embodiment.

  In 3rd Embodiment and other embodiment, the structure which attaches a case to a right attachment part was illustrated by connecting at least 2 case side connection parts and at least 2 right side connection parts as a 1st guide part, respectively. However, in any configuration, the case may be a configuration in which the case is attached to the right mounting portion by connecting the three or more case side connecting portions and the three or more right connecting portions. In addition, as the second guide portion, the configuration in which the case is attached to the left-side mounting portion by connecting the two case-side connecting portions and the two left-side connecting portions, respectively, but in any configuration, there are three or more cases The case may be configured such that the case is attached to the left mounting portion by connecting the side connecting portion and the three or more left connecting portions. Moreover, the structure which attaches a case to a right mounting part by connecting one case side connection part and one right side connection part may be sufficient. Moreover, the structure which attaches a case to a left side mounting part by connecting one case side connection part and one left side connection part may be sufficient.

  In 3rd Embodiment and other embodiment, the structure which attaches a case to a right mounting part by connecting at least 2 case side connection parts and at least 2 right side connection parts with a magnet as a 1st guide part, respectively. Although illustrated, at least two case side connection parts and at least two right side connection parts may be connected by a fitting structure or a locking structure. Moreover, at least two case side connection parts and at least two right side connection parts may each be configured in a sheet shape, and each case side connection part may be connected to a corresponding right connection part with a hook-and-loop fastener structure. In addition, as the second guide part, the configuration in which the case is attached to the left mounting part by connecting the two case side connecting parts and the two left side connecting parts, respectively, is illustrated. The left connecting portion may be connected by a fitting structure or a locking structure. Further, at least two case-side connecting portions and at least two right-side connecting portions may each be configured in a sheet shape, and each case-side connecting portion may be connected to the corresponding left-side connecting portion with a hook-and-loop fastener structure.

  In the configuration of the third embodiment and other embodiments, a portion for attaching the case (surface portion 372 and surface portion 382 in the third embodiment) is a portion to be attached to the body (right ear attachment portion 362a and left in the third embodiment). The ear mounting portion 362b) may be configured to be displaceable. For example, the rear surface portion 371 and the front surface portion 372 fixed to the right ear attachment portion 362a may be separated, and the front surface portion 372 may be displaced with respect to the rear surface portion 371 by a ratchet structure, a spherical pair structure, or the like. Similarly, the back surface portion 381 and the front surface portion 382 fixed to the left ear attachment portion 362b may be separated, and the front surface portion 382 may be displaceable with respect to the back surface portion 381 by a ratchet structure, a spherical pair structure, or the like.

  In 3rd Embodiment, although the right ear hooking part was illustrated as the right ear attaching part 362a, what is necessary is just a structure which can be attached to a right ear. For example, the configuration may be such that the same ear insertion part as in the first embodiment is inserted into the ear hole of the right ear and attached, or the right ear is sandwiched. Or you may use together the structure attached to a right ear, the structure inserted in the ear hole of a right ear, and the right ear. For example, the right ear mounting portion 362a (right ear hooking portion) of the third embodiment and the ear insertion portion of the first embodiment may be used together or attached to the right ear. Moreover, although the left ear hook part was illustrated as a left ear attachment part, what is necessary is just a structure which can be attached to a left ear. For example, a configuration in which the same ear insertion portion as that in the first embodiment is inserted into the ear hole of the left ear and attached may be used, or a configuration in which the left ear is sandwiched may be used. Or you may use together the structure attached to a left ear, the structure inserted in the ear hole of a left ear, and the structure attached on both sides of a left ear. For example, the left ear attachment part 362b (left ear hooking part) of the third embodiment and the ear insertion part of the first embodiment may be used together and attached to the left ear.

  The third embodiment exemplifies a configuration that is not attached when the right ear side or the left ear side is attached in the opposite direction (that is, when an incompatible connecting portion is to be attached). The idea is not limited to the example of the third embodiment. For example, in the configuration of the third embodiment, only the second case side connecting portion 352, the first right side connecting portion 373a, and the first left side connecting portion 383a may be replaced with a magnetic material such as iron. Alternatively, in the configuration of the third embodiment, only the first case side connecting portion 351, the second right side connecting portion 373b, and the second left side connecting portion 383b may be replaced with a magnetic material such as iron. Also in this case, if the left and right sides are attached in the opposite direction, the magnets will repel each other and will not be mounted.

  In the third embodiment, when the case 312 is attached to the attachment portion 360, the lead-out holes 320 are all covered by the covering portion (surface portion 372 or surface portion 382) that forms part of the attachment portion 360, and the case 312 is covered. In this example, a configuration in which the portion (that is, all the lead-out holes 320) covered by the covering portion (the surface portion 372 or the surface portion 382) at the time of attachment is exposed at the time of the removal at the removal from the attachment portion 360 is illustrated. Not limited to. For example, when the case 312 is attached to the attachment portion 360, only a part of the outlet hole 320 is covered by the covering portion (surface portion 372 or surface portion 382), and when the case 312 is removed from the attachment portion 360. The lead hole 320 may be configured such that a portion (that is, a part of the lead hole) covered with the covering portion (the surface portion 372 or the surface portion 382) is exposed when the lead hole 320 is attached.

  In the above embodiment, the configuration in which the mounting portion is mainly hung on the ear is exemplified as the configuration in which the mounting portion is hung on the user's human body. For example, another configuration in which the mounting portion is hung on the user's neck is used. May be. For example, the mounting portion may be hung on the user's head, and the case may be detachably attached to the mounting portion, or the mounting portion may be hung on the user's neck, and the case is detachably attached to the mounting portion. May be.

  In the third embodiment and other configurations to which the same configuration is applied, the case 312 can be held by the magnet with respect to the mounting portion 360. In this configuration, when a stationary attachment member is provided separately from the attachment portion 360 and a structure in which a magnetic body is provided on the attachment member (for example, a structure similar to the surface portion 372 and the surface portion 382) is provided, the device The main body 311 can be detached from the attachment portion 360 and attached to an original stationary attachment member to be used as a fixed scanner.

  In the third embodiment and other configurations to which the same configuration is applied, a mounting portion can be freely prepared by a third party such as a user by disclosing the mounting portion shape and the position and structure of the permanent magnet to the third party. Will be able to.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Reading system 10 ... Portable information code reader 12, 312 ... Case 12c, 317 ... Extension part 14,314 ... Reading port 21 ... Illumination light source (notification part, light source)
23 ... Imaging unit 40 ... Control circuit (processing unit, irradiation control unit, notification unit, voice guidance unit, information notification unit, volume adjustment unit, decoding unit, determination unit, irradiation state control unit)
42 ... Operation switch 44 ... Sound generation unit (notification unit, voice guidance unit, information notification unit)
46 ... Sensor unit 48 ... Communication unit 50 ... Marker light irradiation unit 60, 360 ... Mounting unit 61 ... Ear insertion unit 61a ... Derivation hole (derivation unit)
62 ... Ear hook 71 ... First fixing part 72 ... Second fixing part 80, 302 ... Cable 100 ... Information code 160 ... Other mounting member 221a ... Blue LED (light source)
221b ... Red LED (light source)
221c ... Projector (light source)
313: Stepped portion (fitting portion)
317: Extension part 320 ... Lead-out hole 351: First case side connection part (first guide part, second guide part)
352... Second case side connecting portion (first guide portion, second guide portion)
362a ... Right ear mounting part (ear hook part, right ear hook part, supported part)
362b ... Left ear mounting part (ear hook part, left ear hook part, supported part)
362c: intermediate connecting portion 363a ... front side extending portion 363b ... front side extending portion 370 ... right side mounting portion (holding portion)
371 ... back side 372 ... front side (right side fitted part, covering part)
373a ... 1st right side connection part (1st guide part)
373b ... 2nd right side connection part (1st guide part)
380 ... Left side mounting part (holding part)
381 ... Back side 382 ... Front side (left side fitted part, covering part)
383a ... 1st left side connection part (2nd guide part)
383b ... 2nd left side connection part (2nd guide part)
391: Cable support D: External device

Claims (42)

An imaging unit for imaging the information code;
A processing unit that processes an image of the information code imaged by the imaging unit;
A case for holding the imaging unit and the processing unit;
An attachment part that is provided as a separate body from the case and attaches the imaging unit to the user in a configuration that images the side of the user facing the face,
A portable information code reading device comprising: An imaging unit for imaging the information code;
A processing unit that processes an image of the information code imaged by the imaging unit;
A case for holding the imaging unit and the processing unit;
An attachment portion that is provided integrally with the case or as a separate body, and attaches the case to at least one ear of a user;
A portable information code reading device comprising:   The portable information code reading device according to claim 1, wherein the attachment portion is configured to attach the case to at least one ear of a user.   The portable information code reader according to claim 1, wherein the attachment portion is configured to be hung on the human body of the user. The case includes a reading port through which light from the information code can be introduced,
The mounting part is configured to attach the case to the user's ear in a configuration in which the case is arranged in a lateral position of the user's face and the reading port faces the front side of the user. The portable information code reader according to any one of claims 2 to 4. The case includes an extension portion extending in a predetermined direction from the position of the attachment portion, and the reading port is provided near an end portion of the extension portion opposite to the attachment portion,
6. The portable information code reader according to claim 5, wherein the attachment portion attaches the case to the user's ear so that the extension portion extends at least forward from the user's ear.   The portable information code reading device according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the attachment portion includes an ear insertion portion that is inserted into an ear hole of the user.   The portable information code reading device according to any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein the attachment portion includes an ear hook portion that is hung on the user's ear. The ear hook is detachable from a part of the case or a connecting part connected to the case,
A first fixing part to which the ear hook part is to be fixed when the ear hook part is attached to the left ear of the user, and a part of the case or a connecting part connected to the case; The portable information code reader according to claim 8, wherein a second fixing portion to which the ear hooking portion is to be fixed when the ear hooking portion is attached to the right ear is formed.   9. The portable information code reading device according to claim 8, wherein the ear hooking portion is provided to be displaceable with respect to a part of the case or a connecting portion connected to the case. The case includes a reading port through which light from the information code can be introduced,
Even if the case is attached to the user's left ear side or the case is attached to the user's right ear side, the attachment portion has a configuration in which the reading port faces the front side of the user. The portable information code reader according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the case is attachable to the user's ear. Having an illumination light source for illuminating illumination light and a marker light irradiator for irradiating marker light;
Even if the case is attached to the left ear side of the user or the case is attached to the right ear side of the user, the attachment portion is irradiated with light from the illumination light source and the marker light irradiation portion. 12. The case according to claim 1, wherein the case can be attached to the ear of the user in a configuration in which the marker light from the front is irradiated on the front side of the user. Portable information code reader. A sensor part is provided inside or outside the case,
The external processing unit provided outside the processing unit or the case decodes the information code on condition that at least a predetermined detection result is obtained by the sensor unit. The portable information code reader according to claim 12. The sensor part is capable of detecting a predetermined state in which the attachment part is attached to the user's ear,
14. The information processing code according to claim 13, wherein an external processing unit provided outside the processing unit or the case decodes the information code on condition that the predetermined state is detected by the sensor unit. Portable information code reader. The sensor unit includes the imaging unit,
The imaging unit is capable of continuously or intermittently capturing images outside the case,
The external processing unit provided outside the processing unit or the case is characterized in that the information code is decoded after the condition is satisfied on condition that an image captured by the imaging unit is in a predetermined state. The portable information code reader according to claim 13. At least one of an illumination light source that emits illumination light and a marker light irradiation unit that emits marker light;
Irradiation that starts at least one of the illumination light and the marker light by operating at least one of the illumination light source and the marker light irradiation unit on condition that a predetermined start condition is satisfied in the sensor unit A control unit;
The portable information code reader according to claim 13, further comprising:   A communication unit that communicates with an external device provided outside the case, wherein the communication unit is capable of transmitting information to the external device or receiving information from the external device. The portable information code reader according to any one of claims 1 to 16.   The in-case or a portion attached to the case is provided with a notifying unit for notifying at least the processing unit or a processing result in an external processing unit provided outside the case. The portable information code reader according to any one of claims 1 to 17. The mounting portion has an ear insertion portion to be inserted into the user's ear hole,
19. The ear insertion unit is provided with a sound generation unit that emits sound or a derivation unit that derives sound from the sound generation unit that emits sound, according to any one of claims 1 to 18. The portable information code reader according to claim.   Based on the decoding information obtained by decoding the information code by the processing unit or an external processing unit provided outside the case, it has a voice guidance unit that voice-guides information to be dealt with after decoding the decoding information The portable information code reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the portable information code reading device is a portable information code reading device. A cable that is held by the case and electrically connected to an external device provided outside the case;
The case is configured in a longitudinal shape, the attachment portion is provided on one side in the longitudinal direction of the case, and the cable is pulled out of the case from one side in the short direction of the case on one side in the longitudinal direction of the case. The portable information code reader according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the portable information code reader is provided. A cable that is fixed to the case and pulled out from the case and electrically connected to an external device provided outside the case;
The mounting portion is provided on one wall side of the case,
The cable support portion for supporting the cable drawn out from the case is formed at a position on the back side of the mounting portion on a wall portion opposite to the one wall portion of the case. The portable information code reader according to any one of claims 1 to 21.   The operation switch capable of external operation is provided at a position on the back side of the mounting portion on a wall portion opposite to the wall portion on which the mounting portion is provided in the case. The portable information code reader according to any one of claims 1 to 22. The attachment portion has a detachable ear insertion portion that is inserted into a hole of the user's ear, or a detachable ear hook portion that is hung on the user's ear,
The portable information code reader according to any one of claims 1 to 23, further comprising an information notification unit that notifies information when at least the attachment unit is detached from the case. A sound generator that emits sound;
A volume adjustment unit for adjusting the volume of the sound emitted from the sound generation unit;
25. The portable information code reader according to any one of claims 1 to 24, comprising: The attachment portion has a detachable ear insertion portion that is inserted into a hole of the user's ear, or a detachable ear hook portion that is hung on the user's ear,
26. Any one of claims 1 to 25, wherein after the attachment portion is removed from the case, another attachment member different from the removed attachment portion can be attached to the case. The portable information code reader according to claim 1. The processing unit or an external processing unit provided outside the case includes a decoding unit that decodes data recorded in the information code imaged by the imaging unit,
A light source for irradiating light to the outside is assembled integrally with the case,
Further, a determination unit capable of determining whether the result of decoding the information code by the decoding unit is a predetermined success state and a predetermined failure state that is not the predetermined success state;
An irradiation state control unit that controls an irradiation state of light from the light source to a state according to a determination result by the determination unit;
27. The portable information code reader according to any one of claims 1 to 26, comprising: The imaging unit is configured to image the outside of the case in a state where light is irradiated toward the outside of the case by the light source,
The decoding unit is configured to decode the information code imaged by the imaging unit in a state where light is irradiated to the outside of the case by the light source,
The irradiation state control unit controls the irradiation state of light from the light source to a state according to a determination result by the determination unit after the decoding unit attempts to decode the information code. 28. A portable information code reader according to claim 27. It is configured as a light source different from the light source, and includes an illumination light irradiation unit that irradiates light toward the outside of the case,
The imaging unit is configured to image the outside of the case in a state where light is irradiated toward the outside of the case by the illumination light irradiation unit,
The decoding unit is configured to decode the information code imaged by the imaging unit in a state where light is irradiated outside the case by the illumination light irradiation unit,
The irradiation state control unit controls the irradiation state of light from the light source to a state according to a determination result by the determination unit after the decoding unit attempts to decode the information code. 28. A portable information code reader according to claim 27.   The irradiation state control unit is configured to determine, by the determination unit, a time interval between a lighting time and a light-off time of light from the light source when the determination unit determines that the predetermined success state is achieved. 30. The control according to any one of claims 27 to 29, wherein a control is performed to make the light on time or the light off time of the light from the light source different from the time interval when the failure state is determined. The portable information code reader according to the item.   When the determination unit determines that the irradiation state control unit is in the predetermined success state, the irradiation state control unit sets a first color irradiation state in which light of the first color is emitted from the light source, and the determination unit performs the predetermined failure. The state according to any one of claims 27 to 30, wherein when the state is determined, a second color irradiation state in which light of a second color different from the first color is emitted from the light source is set. The portable information code reader according to claim.   When the determination unit determines that the predetermined success state or the predetermined failure state is one of the states, the irradiation state control unit determines the light irradiation state of the light source from the light source. When it is determined as one of the other display states for displaying predetermined information on the irradiated object, the light irradiation state from the light source is different from the first display state. 32. The portable information code reader according to claim 27, wherein the portable information code reader is in an irradiation state.   The attachment portion connects a right ear attachment portion attached to the user's right ear, a left ear attachment portion attached to the user's left ear, and the right ear attachment portion and the left ear attachment portion. The portable information code reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 32, further comprising an intermediate connecting portion.   The mounting portion is configured as a separate body from the case, and is disposed on the right side of the user's face, and is disposed on the left side of the user's face, and a right mounting portion on which the case can be attached and detached. The portable information code reader according to any one of claims 1 to 33, further comprising a left side mounting portion to which the case can be attached and detached. A magnet is disposed in one of the case and the mounting portion, and a suction portion that is attracted to the magnet is disposed in the other,
When the case is attached to the right attachment part, the case and the right attachment part are held by suction of the magnet and the suction part, and the case is attached to the left attachment part. 35. The portable information code reading device according to claim 34, wherein the case and the left mounting portion are held by suction of the magnet and the suction portion. The case is configured to be engageable with a right-side mated portion formed on the right-side mounting portion, and is configured to be matable with a left-side mated portion formed on the left-side mounting portion. Is formed,
When the case is attached to the right mounting part, the fitting part and the right fitted part are fitted,
36. The portable information code reading device according to claim 34 or 35, wherein when the case is attached to the left mounting portion, the fitting portion and the left fitting portion are fitted. The case is detachably connected to the right mounting part, and a guide is provided so that the posture of the case with respect to the right mounting part becomes a first predetermined attitude when the case is connected to the right mounting part. A first guide part that
The case is detachably connected to the left mounting portion, and a guide is provided so that the posture of the case with respect to the left mounting portion becomes a second predetermined posture when the case is connected to the left mounting portion. A second guide part that
37. The portable information code reader according to any one of claims 34 to 36, comprising: At least two case-side connecting portions provided on the case side;
At least two right connecting portions provided on the right mounting portion side;
At least two left connecting portions provided on the left mounting portion side;
With
The first guide part is configured to attach the case to the right mounting part by connecting at least two case side connection parts and at least two right connection parts, respectively.
The said 2nd guide part attaches the said case to the said left attachment part by connecting at least 2 said case side connection part and at least 2 said left side connection part, respectively. Portable information code reader. As the two case-side connecting portions, a first case-side connecting portion configured as a permanent magnet and a second case-side connecting portion configured as a permanent magnet are provided,
As the two right connection parts, a first right connection part configured as a permanent magnet and a second right connection part configured as a permanent magnet are provided,
As the two left side connection parts, a first left side connection part configured as a permanent magnet and a second left side connection part configured as a permanent magnet are provided,
The first case side connecting portion has a polarity different from that of the first right connecting portion and the first left connecting portion, and has the same polarity as the second right connecting portion and the second left connecting portion,
The second case side connection part has a polarity different from that of the second right connection part and the second left connection part, and has the same polarity as the first right connection part and the first left connection part. A portable information code reader according to claim 38. The mounting portion is connected to and supported by any of the user's ears, a front extending portion extending from the supported portion, the front extending portion, and the case. A holding unit for holding at least,
When the attachment portion is attached to the user, the front extension portion is arranged to extend to the front side of the supported portion, and the holding portion is located in front of the ear hole of the ear that supports the supported portion. 40. The portable information code reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 39, wherein:   The holding portion includes a back surface portion facing the user's face at a position before the ear hole, and a surface portion disposed on the opposite side of the back surface portion, and holds the case by the surface portion. 41. The portable information code reader according to claim 40. In the case, in the wall portion on the side attached to the attachment portion, a lead-out hole for leading out sound is formed,
When the case is attached to the attachment part, at least a part of the lead-out hole is covered with a covering part that forms a part of the attachment part, and when the case is removed from the attachment part, the lead-out is performed. The portable information code reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 41, wherein a portion of the hole that is covered by the covering portion is exposed during the attachment.

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