JP2016157240A - Information code reader and reading method for information code - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide constitution such that when a plurality of information codes are present within a visual field range, a read result of an information code arranged at a proper distance is easily output and a read result of an information code present within a distance range where reading is undesirable is easily prevented from being output.SOLUTION: A portable information code reader 1 comprises: an imaging part 23 capable of imaging information codes; a determination part which determines whether the distance of an information code from the information code reader 1 is within a predetermined allowable range; and an output control part which performs output control to output a decoding result of the information code on condition that the determination part determines that the distance to the information code is within the allowable range and not to output the decoding result of the information code when the determination part determines that the distance to the information code is not within the allowable range.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 14

Description

  The present invention relates to an information code reading apparatus and an information code reading method.

  In a reading device intended to read an information code, it is required to read the information code securely when the user matches the direction and distance of the reading device aiming at the information code that the user wants to read. It is not desirable that the reading result is output. However, in recent readers, with the advancement of high performance and high functionality, the field of view of imaging and the range of distances that can be read are becoming wider, and not only the intended information code but also other information Increasingly, codes are being imaged and deciphered at once. If a plurality of information codes are captured and decoded at the same time, for example, a plurality of reading results are mixed, and the reading result of the targeted information code cannot be specified, or it takes time to specify. Some measures are required to solve such problems.

JP-A-8-272484 Japanese Patent No. 3020943 JP 2001-147987 A

  The above-described problem is particularly a concern when the reading device is used as a wearable terminal. For example, Patent Documents 1 and 2 have been proposed as techniques for using the reading device as a wearable terminal. In these technologies, the reading device is mounted on the user's head or face, and the user's face is used. It is configured to read the information code that exists in the direction facing. In this way, the reading device that is continuously worn on the user's body changes the reading direction just by changing the posture of the user unconsciously. Then, there is a higher possibility that a distant information code or the like in a direction that is not supposed to be read enters the field of view, and an unintended information code decoding result is easily output. Therefore, in this type of apparatus, there is a strong demand for a measure that reliably reads the information code of the area that the user is supposed to read and restricts the information code of the area that is not supposed to be read. Note that this example of the wearable terminal is an example in which the problem is significant, and the same problem may occur in a reading device other than the wearable terminal.

  As a technique related to such a problem, for example, a technique as disclosed in Patent Document 3 has been proposed. In this technique, the two-dimensional image formed on the light receiving surface is analyzed, and the size of the information code in the two-dimensional image or the size of the constituent elements constituting the information code is equal to or less than a preset allowable value. In this case, the information code is restricted from being read.

  However, in the method disclosed in Patent Document 3, whether or not a reading target is to be read is determined based on the size of an information code or a component in a captured image (two-dimensional image). May be excluded, or a distant information code that is not supposed to be read may be read. For example, when the information code at a distant position that is not supposed to be read is relatively large and the information code at an appropriate distance is relatively small, the information code at a distant position is larger than the information code at an appropriate distance In such a case, an information code at a distant position that is not supposed to be read is selected as a reading target, and reading of the information code at an appropriate distance may be excluded.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problem, and when there are a plurality of information codes in the visual field range, it is easy to output the reading result of the information code arranged at an appropriate distance, and the reading can be performed. An object of the present invention is to provide a configuration that can easily prevent a reading result of an information code existing in an undesired distance range from being output.

The first invention is an information code reader capable of outputting a result of reading an information code,
An imaging unit capable of imaging the information code;
A determination unit that determines whether or not a distance from the information code reader to the information code is within a predetermined permission range;
The determination unit outputs a decoding result of the information code on the condition that the distance to the information code is determined to be within the permitted range, and the distance to the information code is within the permitted range by the determining unit. An output control unit that performs output control so as not to output the decoding result of the information code when it is determined that
It is characterized by having.

The second invention is an information code reading method using an information code reading device,
A pre-imaging step of pre-imaging the information code or a code having the same size as the information code by the imaging unit of the information code reader in a state where the code is separated from the information code reader by a predetermined reference distance; ,
A calculation step of calculating in advance an actual measurement value of one or a plurality of predetermined code directions of any one of the codes from the captured image generated in the preliminary imaging step;
The reference distance, the length in a predetermined direction within the visual field range in the virtual plane when the imaging unit images the virtual plane whose distance from the information code reader is the reference distance, and calculated in the calculation step A registration step of registering in advance in a registration unit of the information code reading device as a reference reflection value that reflects the measured value that has been performed;
An imaging step of imaging the information code by the imaging unit using the information code reader configured through the registration step;
A determination step of determining by a determination unit of the information code reader whether or not a distance from the information code reader to the information code imaged in the imaging step is within a predetermined permitted range;
The determination unit outputs a decoding result of the information code on the condition that the distance to the information code is determined to be within the permitted range, and the distance to the information code is within the permitted range by the determining unit. An output control step of performing output control by the output control unit of the information code reader so as not to output the decoding result of the information code when it is determined that it is not,
It is characterized by including.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, a determination unit that determines whether or not the distance from the information code reader to the information code is within a predetermined permitted range, and the distance to the information code by the determination unit is within the permitted range. Output the decoding result of the information code on the condition that it is determined to be present, and do not output the decoding result of the information code when the determination unit determines that the distance to the information code is not within the permitted range And an output control unit that performs output control.
According to this configuration, when the information code is read, the determination unit can determine whether the distance to the information code is within a predetermined distance range. If the distance to the information code is not within the permitted range, the determination unit makes a determination to that effect. In this case, the output control unit controls the output so that the decoding result of the information code is not output. Will be made. For example, when there are a plurality of information codes in the visual field range, the reading result is limited to the information codes arranged at an appropriate distance (within a predetermined permission range). For information codes that exist within a distance range that is not desired to be read (outside a predetermined allowable range), it is possible to prevent the reading result from being output.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, when the information code is imaged by the imaging unit, a size detection unit that detects a size reflection value reflecting the size of the information code is provided. The determination unit determines whether the distance from the information code reading device to the information code is within the permitted range based on the size reflected value detected by the size detection unit.
According to this configuration, it is possible to determine whether or not the information code is arranged at an appropriate distance (within a predetermined allowable range) using the information code image captured by the imaging unit, It becomes easy to simplify the configuration. In addition, since the distance to the information code can be determined using the image of the actually captured information code itself, it becomes easier to determine the distance to the information code with higher accuracy.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a registration unit in which a reference reflected value reflecting a reference size of an information code to be read is registered in advance. Then, the determination unit calculates the distance from the information code reading device to the information code based on the reference reflection value registered in the registration unit and the size reflection value detected by the size detection unit, and the calculation is performed. It is configured to determine whether or not the distance is within the permitted range.
In this way, a reference reflection value reflecting the reference size of the information code to be read is registered in advance, and a distance is calculated based on the reference reflection value and the size reflection value of the detected information code If it is used, it will become easy to calculate the distance to an information code more correctly based on the appropriate reference assumed beforehand. Then, if it is determined whether or not the information code is arranged at an appropriate distance (within a predetermined allowable range) based on such a highly accurate distance, a more appropriate determination can be made.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, a predetermined reference distance within a visual field range in the virtual plane when the imaging unit captures a virtual plane having a predetermined reference distance and a distance from the information code reading device at the reference distance. Captured image when one of the codes is captured with the information code or a code of the same size as the information code attached to the object whose length in the direction and the distance from the information code reader is set as the reference distance A value reflecting one or a plurality of actually measured lengths in the predetermined code direction of any one of the codes obtained from (1) is registered as a reference reflection value in the registration unit.
Thus, if the predetermined reference distance, the length in the predetermined direction with respect to the virtual plane, and the measured value of the length in the predetermined code direction with respect to the information code or the code having the same size as the information code can be grasped in some form, The distance to the information code can be calculated more accurately from the image of the information code in the captured image obtained when performing the determination.

In the invention according to claim 5, when the information code has one or more predetermined reference directions defined in advance, and the information code is imaged by the imaging unit, the reference of the information code in the captured image An inclination detector for detecting the inclination of the direction is provided. Then, the size detection unit is configured to detect a size reflection value reflecting the length of the reference direction in the information code based on the detection result of the reference direction inclination by the inclination detection unit.
When calculating the distance to the information code based on the image of the information code included in the captured image, first, the inclination detection unit grasps the inclination of the information code in the reference direction, and reflects the length of the reference direction. If the size reflected value is grasped, a value reflecting the actual length (the actual length in the reference direction) of the information code included in the captured image can be detected more accurately. If the distance to the information code is calculated on the basis of the highly accurate measurement value obtained in this way (the size reflection value reflecting the length in the reference direction), the distance to the information code can be more accurately determined. Can be calculated.

The invention of claim 6 includes a distance sensor for measuring a distance from the information code reader to an object arranged on the imaging side by the imaging unit. The determination unit is configured to determine whether the distance from the information code reading device to the information code is within the permitted range based on the measurement result of the distance to the object by the distance sensor.
Thus, if it is set as the structure which measures the distance to an object with a distance sensor, the distance to an object can be detected more rapidly and more correctly. If the information code is attached to the object, the distance to the information code can be detected more quickly and more accurately.

  In addition, when using the structure of Claim 6, if the method of using the detection value with the distance sensor obtained immediately after the information code was read as the distance to the information code is used, the distance to the information code is further increased. More accurate detection is possible.

The invention of claim 7 specifies an individual permission range registration unit in which a plurality of individual permission range information is registered in a form in which a permission range is defined for each user or for each user classification, and the classification of the user or the user. Information acquisition unit that acquires information to be used, and which individual permission range information to use from among the plurality of individual permission range information registered in the individual permission range registration unit based on the information acquired by the information acquisition unit An individual information setting unit to be set. Then, the determination unit determines whether the distance from the information code reading device to the information code is within the permitted range based on any individual permitted range information set as a use target by the individual information setting unit. It has a configuration.
According to this configuration, the permission range can be determined for each user or for each user classification, and when any user uses, individual permission range information corresponding to the user is set as individual information. It becomes possible to select and use depending on the part. When the user actually reads, it is possible to determine whether or not the distance from the information code reading device to the information code is within the permitted range based on a criterion according to the user. Become.

The invention according to claim 8 is a mode in which a plurality of reading modes are determined in association with mode switching conditions corresponding to the respective reading modes, and when any one of the mode switching conditions is satisfied, the reading mode corresponding to the established mode switching condition. Set by a mode switching unit, a mode-specific permission range registration unit in which a plurality of mode-specific permission range information is registered in a form that defines a permission range corresponding to each of a plurality of reading modes, and a mode switching unit. A mode-specific setting unit that sets which mode-specific permission range information is used among the plurality of mode-specific permission range information registered in the mode-specific permission range registration unit, based on the read mode. .
If comprised in this way, whenever mode switching conditions are satisfied, it can switch to the reading mode according to conditions. Each time the reading mode is switched, a permission range associated with the mode (a range specified by mode-specific permission range information associated with the mode) can be set.
Then, the determination unit determines whether the distance from the information code reading device to the information code is within the permitted range based on any of the permitted range information for each mode set by the setting unit for each mode. It is the composition to do.
According to this configuration, each time the reading mode is switched, information is read from the information code reading device according to the permission range associated with the mode (the range specified by the mode-specific permission range information associated with the mode). Whether or not the distance to the code is within the permitted range can be determined based on a criterion corresponding to the mode.

In the invention of claim 9, a plurality of types of information codes are defined as reading objects, and a plurality of types of permission range information in which a plurality of types of permission range information is registered in a form that defines a permission range corresponding to each type of information code. It has a registration department. Then, when any type of information code is imaged by the imaging unit, the determination unit determines the distance from the information code reading device to the information code based on the type-specific permission range information corresponding to the type of the imaged image. Is configured to determine whether or not is within the permitted range.
If comprised in this way, it will become possible to set the permission range (range specified by the type-specific permission range information associated with the information code type) for each information code type. When the information code is imaged, the information code reading device follows the permission range associated with the captured type (the range specified by the type-specific permission range information associated with the type). It is possible to determine whether or not the distance to the information code is within the permitted range based on the standard according to the type.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, a processing unit that processes an image of an information code imaged by the imaging unit, a case that holds the imaging unit, and a case that is integrated with or separate from the case, the imaging unit and the processing unit are provided. And an attachment portion for attaching the apparatus main body held by the case to the user.
According to this configuration, the information code reader can be functioned as a wearable terminal that is attached to a user and used. When functioning as a wearable terminal in this way, it becomes easy to face in various directions unconsciously, and thus it becomes easy to select an information code at a far position that is not supposed to be read as a reading target. For example, since it is easy to exclude an information code that is not an appropriate distance, it functions more effectively when applied to such a terminal.

  According to the invention of claim 11, the same effect as that of claim 1 can be obtained.

FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of reading using the portable information code reading device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the vicinity of the user's face on which the portable information code reader according to the first embodiment is mounted. FIG. 3 is a block diagram schematically illustrating an electrical configuration of the portable information code reader according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a state in which the holding member is attached to the case and the apparatus main body is attached to the attaching portion in a state where the cable is held by the holding member in the portable information code reader according to the first embodiment. It is. FIG. 5 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 first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating an attachment portion that is a part of the portable information code reader according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a side view of the apparatus main body, which is a part of the portable information code reading apparatus according to the first embodiment, viewed from a predetermined direction. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram for conceptually explaining the pre-imaging step in the pre-registration process. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram conceptually illustrating a captured image when a barcode is captured in the preliminary imaging step. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of the number of pixels and dimensions regarding the captured image of FIG. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram conceptually illustrating a captured image when a QR code is captured in the preliminary imaging step. FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the contents registered in the memory by the registration step in the pre-registration process. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing another example of the information code size measuring method in the pre-registration process. FIG. 14 is a conceptual diagram for explaining that the reading position can be changed by a person when used as a wearable terminal. FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram for conceptually explaining an example in which a permission range is defined for each use target. FIG. 16 is an explanatory view for conceptually explaining the registration contents of the permission range determined for each use target. FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of reading processing performed by the information code reading device shown in FIG. FIG. 18 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a captured image of the information code (barcode) captured by the reading process of FIG. FIG. 19 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a specific relationship of the number of pixels in the captured image of FIG. FIG. 20 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a captured image of the information code (QR code) captured by the reading process of FIG. FIG. 21 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a method of calculating the number of pixels in the reference direction for a barcode that is inclined in a captured image. FIG. 22 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a method of calculating the number of pixels in the first reference direction and the second reference direction for a QR code inclined in the captured image. FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the concept of distance calculation when the distance to the information code is larger than the reference distance. FIG. 24 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the concept of distance calculation when the distance to the information code is smaller than the reference distance. FIG. 25 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example in which one of the modes (horizontal reading mode) is set in the information code reading apparatus according to the third embodiment. FIG. 26 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example in which the information code reading apparatus according to the third embodiment is set to a mode (inclined reading mode) different from that in FIG. FIG. 27A is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of determining the permission range for each mode in the information code reader according to the third embodiment, and FIG. 27B is another example of determining the permission range for each mode. It is explanatory drawing which shows. FIG. 28A is an explanatory diagram illustrating the first type of code (code 1) to be read by the information code reading apparatus according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 28B is a diagram illustrating the second type of code. FIG. 28C is an explanatory diagram illustrating a code (code 2), and FIG. 28C is an explanatory diagram illustrating a third type of code (code 3). FIG. 29A is an explanatory diagram showing an example of determining the permission range for each code type in the information code reader according to the fourth embodiment, and FIG. 29B determines the permission range for each code type. It is explanatory drawing which shows another example. FIG. 30 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a pre-imaging step when a reading apparatus according to another embodiment is used.

[First embodiment]
Hereinafter, a representative example of the first embodiment embodying the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
(Basic configuration)
First, the basic configuration of the portable information code reader 1 will be described.
As shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 2, etc., the portable information code reader 1 (hereinafter also simply referred to as the information code reader 1 or the reader 1) is mainly composed of an apparatus main body 111 and a mounting portion 160. Has been. The apparatus main body 111 includes an imaging unit 23 (FIG. 3) capable of imaging the information code C, a processing unit (control circuit 40 (FIG. 3)) that processes an image of the information code C captured by the imaging unit 23, and imaging. It is the structure provided with the case 112 holding the part 23 and a process part. Also, a configuration that is provided as a separate body from the case 112 and functions to attach to the user the apparatus main body 111 in which the imaging unit 23 and the processing unit are held by the case 112, and images the side on which the user's face faces. The mounting unit 160 functions to mount the imaging unit 23 to the user. The mounting portion 160 has a flexible body mounting portion (user mounting portion) 162 that can be bent and deformed, and a mounting portion 166 to which the case 112 is attached and detached, and is configured to be hung on the human body of the user. It functions to attach the case 112 to the user's ear.

(Device body)
First, the apparatus main body 111 will be described.
The apparatus main body 111 is configured such that various electronic components shown in FIG. 3 are accommodated in the case 112. In this configuration, the apparatus main body 111 can be attached to the mounting portion 160 as shown in FIGS. It can be detached as shown in FIG. In this configuration, for example, a battery is housed in the case 112, and the electronic components in the case 112 are operated using the power from the battery.

  Here, the electrical configuration of the information code reader 1 will be described. As shown in FIG. 3, the information code reader 1 is configured as a code reader capable of reading an information code such as a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code in terms of hardware. And various electronic components are accommodated in the case.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the information code reader 1 mainly includes an optical system such as an illumination unit 21, an imaging unit 23, a filter 25, and an imaging lens 27, a memory 35, a control circuit 40, an operation switch 42, and the like. A microcomputer (hereinafter referred to as “microcomputer”) system and a power supply system such as a power switch 41 and a battery 49 are included. These are mounted on a printed wiring board (not shown) or housed in a case.

  The optical system includes an illumination unit 21, an imaging unit 23, a filter 25, an imaging lens 27, a marker light irradiation unit 80, and the like. The illumination unit 21 functions as an illumination light source capable of emitting illumination light.

  As the reading object R, for example, various objects such as a resin material and a metal material are conceivable, and an information code C as shown in FIG. 3 is formed on such a reading object R by printing or the like (see FIG. 3). (See also example 1). Note that the type of the information code C 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.

  The imaging unit 23 includes a light receiving sensor (for example, an area sensor in which light receiving elements such as a C-MOS and a CCD are two-dimensionally arranged) that can image the information code C, and irradiates the reading object R and the information code C. 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 114 formed in the case 112. 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 accommodated in the lens barrel. In this configuration, the reading port 114 (FIG. 2 and the like) formed in the case 112 is formed. ) Is reflected, and a code image of the information code C 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 around a control circuit 40 and a memory 35 that can function as a microcomputer (information processing apparatus), and the image signal of the information code C imaged by the optical system described above is signaled in hardware and software. 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. 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 configured by known storage means such as a semiconductor memory device, and corresponds to, for example, RAM, ROM, and other nonvolatile memories. 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 reading processing, input processing, and the like, and a system program that can control each hardware unit such as the illumination unit 21 and the imaging unit 23.

  The control circuit 40 is configured, for example, as a microcomputer that can control 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 sensor unit 46 is configured as, for example, a known distance sensor, and is configured to be able to measure the distance to the nearest object existing on the reading side of the reading device 10. As a specific configuration of the sensor unit 46 configured as a distance sensor, various known methods can be employed, and a configuration capable of measuring a distance by a triangulation type may be used, and a time-of-flight type may be used. The configuration may be such that the distance can be measured. The apparatus may be configured as a known optical distance sensor, may be configured as a known ultrasonic distance sensor, or may be configured as a known laser beam distance sensor. Good.

  The communication unit 48 is configured as a known communication interface that performs wired communication or wireless communication, communicates with an external device provided outside the case 112, and transmits information to or receives information from the external device. Is functioning to do. As the external device, various information processing devices such as a stationary computer and a portable computer are assumed, and this information processing device is wired or wireless (for example, known wireless LAN communication or Bluetooth (registered trademark) communication). It is connected so that communication is possible.

  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.

Next, the structure of the apparatus main body will be described.
As shown in FIGS. 5, 7, etc., the case 112 forming the outer shell of the apparatus main body 111 is formed in a longitudinal shape and a 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 111 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 112 is the front-rear direction. In FIG. 7, the center of the visual field range (light receiving optical axis) is indicated by a two-dot chain line G, and the direction parallel to the two-dot chain line G is the front-rear direction. The thickness direction of the case 112 is the width direction (lateral direction) in the direction orthogonal to the front-rear direction, and the opposite wall portion 112a of the case 112 and the opposite wall portion of the opposite wall portion 112a (front side wall). The direction in which the portion 112b faces FIG. 2) 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 112 side, the attachment portion 160 side is defined as the Z-axis negative direction, and the side opposite to the attachment portion 160 is defined as the Z-axis positive direction.

  As shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 4, 5, and 7, the case 112 has a front wall portion 112 c at the front end portion and a rear wall portion 112 d at the rear end portion in such a definition. Yes. Further, a side wall portion (opposing wall portion 112a) is provided on one side (the mounting portion 160 side) in the width direction (left and right direction), and a front side wall portion 112b is provided on the opposite side. Further, a wall 112e is provided at one end in the vertical direction, and a wall 112f is provided at the other end in the vertical direction. The front wall portion 112c, the rear wall portion 112d, the side wall portions 112a and 112b, and the wall portions 112e and 112f have a box-like configuration surrounded by the front, rear, left and right, and the top and bottom. An accommodating portion for accommodating 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.

  As shown in FIG. 2 and the like, the case 112 includes a reading port 114 into which light from the information code can be introduced, and a light-transmitting cover member 115 is provided so as to cover the reading port 114. Further, as shown in FIG. 2 and the like, the case 112 includes an extending portion 117 (a portion extending from the portion contacting the mounting portion 160 to the front side) extending in a predetermined direction from the mounting position on the mounting portion 160, and the extension thereof. A reading port 114 is provided near the end of the protruding portion 117 opposite to the mounting portion 160. A cover member 115 that covers the reading port 114 is configured as a front wall portion 112c. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the attachment portion 160 is configured such that the case 112 is arranged in a lateral position of the user's face Fa and the reading port 114 faces the front side of the user P. It is configured to be attached to the ear Ea. Thus, the case 112 is attached by the attachment part 160 so that the imaging part 23 faces to the same side as the user's face.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 7, an operation switch 42 a capable of an external operation (for example, a vertical pressing operation) is provided on the wall 112 e on one side in the vertical direction in the case 112, and the wall on the other side The part 112f is provided with an operation switch 42b capable of an external operation (for example, a vertical pressing operation). These operation switches 42a and 42b specifically show the operation switch 42 of FIG. The operation switch 42a functions as a trigger switch, for example, and the operation switch 42b functions as an operation switch other than the trigger switch. The memory 35 stores setting information for setting which of the operation switches 42a and 42b functions as a trigger switch and which of the operation switches 42a and 42b functions as another switch. The operation switches 42a and 42b It works according to the information.

  In addition, an illumination unit 21 that irradiates illumination light, a marker light irradiation unit 80 that irradiates marker light, and an imaging unit 23 that images the outside of the case 112 are provided inside the case 112, as shown in FIG. Both the illumination light from the illumination unit 21 and the marker light from the marker light irradiation unit 80 are irradiated from the front wall 112c to the front side of the case 112 through the reading port 114.

  The sensor unit 46 configured as a distance measuring sensor has a predetermined direction parallel to the direction of the light receiving optical axis G as a measurement direction, and in FIG. 7, the measurement direction of the distance by the sensor unit 46 is indicated by a two-dot chain line α. . The sensor unit 46 is configured to measure a distance (distance in the α direction) from the sensor unit 46 to an object on the extension of the measurement direction α by a known method.

(Mounting part)
Next, the attachment part 160 will be described. As illustrated in FIG. 1, FIG. 5, and the like, the attachment portion 160 includes a flexible body attachment portion 162 that can be bent and deformed, and an attachment portion 166 to which the case 112 is attached and detached. Is provided as a separate body. The mounting portion 160 is a portion that is hung on the user's human body and held by the human body, and specifically, a portion that protrudes from the neck of the user in terms of 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. 1, FIG. 2, etc., the mounting portion 160 has a configuration in which the case 112 is arranged in a lateral position of the user's face Fa and the reading port 114 faces the side where the user's face Fa faces. 112 is attached to at least the user's ear Ea.

  The body wearing part 162 is a part to be worn at least partly in direct contact with the user. Specifically, the body wearing part 162 is configured as an ear hooking part that is hung on both ears of the user. As shown in FIGS. 4 to 6, the body wearing part 162 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 portion 162 has a configuration in which both end portions are respectively connected to a right mounting portion 170 and a left mounting portion 180, which will be described later, and has a substantially U-shaped configuration as a whole. The body wearing part 162 includes a right ear mounting part (right ear hooking part) 162a that is formed in a curved position adjacent to the right wearing part 170 so as to protrude upward when worn on the user, A left ear mounting portion (left ear hooking portion) 162b formed away from the right ear mounting portion 162a and curved at an adjacent position near the left mounting portion 180 so as to protrude upward. An intermediate connection portion 162c that connects the ear attachment portion 162a and the left ear attachment portion 162b is provided. The intermediate coupling portion 162c is a portion that wraps around the user's back or neck when the mounting portion 160 is mounted on the user's ear as shown in FIGS.

  The mounting unit 166 has a right side mounting unit 170 that is arranged on the right side of the user's face and that can be attached to and detached from the case, and a left side mounting unit 180 that is arranged on the left side of the user's face and that can be attached and detached from the case. The case 112 can be mounted on the right side or the left side of the user's face. In this configuration, the body mounting portion 162 extends forward from a right ear mounting portion 162a that is hung on the user's right ear and supported by the right ear (the right ear mounting portion 162a corresponds to an example of a supported portion). The portion 163a extends to the front side (the side opposite to the intermediate coupling portion 162c). The right mounting portion 170 functions as an attachment portion that is connected to the front end portion of the front extending portion 163 a in the body mounting portion 162 and holds the case 112. In this configuration, as shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, when the attachment portion 160 is attached to the user, the front extension portion 163a is arranged to extend forward from the right ear attachment portion 162a (supported portion). The right mounting portion 170 (attachment portion) is arranged in front of the ear hole of the right ear of the user who supports the ear attachment portion 162a (supported portion).

  The right mounting portion 170 (mounting portion) is a back surface portion 171 (FIG. 5 etc.) 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 172 (FIG. 5 and the like) disposed on the opposite side of the back surface portion 171. Both the back surface portion 171 and the front surface portion 172 are configured to have a flat outer surface. For example, the outer surface of the back surface portion 171 (the surface supported by the user's face) and the outer surface of the surface portion 172 (when the case 112 is attached) The surface in contact with the case 112 is substantially parallel. The thickness between the back surface portion 171 and the front surface portion 172 is larger than the thickness of the right ear mounting portion 162a, and the front surface portion 172 side protrudes laterally from the right ear mounting portion (right ear hooking portion) 162a. It has a configuration. The case 112 is held by the surface portion 172 by the right side mounting portion 170 configured as described above. The holding structure will be described in detail later.

  As shown in FIG. 5 and the like, as in the right side, in the body wearing portion 162, a left ear mounting portion 162b that is hung on the user's left ear and supported by the left ear (the left ear mounting portion 162b is a portion of the supported portion). The front extension part 163b extends from the front side (corresponding to an example) to the front side (the side opposite to the intermediate coupling part 162c). The left mounting portion 180 functions as an attachment portion that is connected to the front end portion of the front extending portion 163 b in the body mounting portion 162 and holds the case 112. In this configuration, when the attachment portion 160 is attached to the user as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the front extension portion 163b is arranged to extend forward from the left ear attachment portion 162b (supported portion), The left mounting portion 180 (mounting portion) is arranged in front of the ear hole of the left ear of the user who supports the ear mounting portion 162b (supported portion).

  The left mounting portion 180 (mounting portion) is a back surface portion 181 (FIG. 6) that is supported facing the user's face at a position before the ear hole of the left ear when mounted on the human body as shown in FIGS. And a front surface portion 182 (FIG. 6) disposed on the opposite side of the back surface portion 181. Both the back surface portion 181 and the front surface portion 182 have a flat outer surface. For example, the outer surface of the back surface portion 181 (the surface supported by the user's face) and the outer surface of the surface portion 182 (when the case 112 is attached) The surface in contact with the case 112 is substantially parallel. The thickness between the back surface portion 181 and the front surface portion 182 is larger than the thickness of the left ear mounting portion 162b, and the front surface portion 182 side protrudes laterally from the left ear mounting portion (left ear hooking portion) 162a. It has a configuration. The case 112 can be held by the surface portion 182 by the left mounting portion 180 configured as described above. The holding structure will be described in detail later.

  The guide portion 150 removably connects the case 112 to each mounting portion 166 provided in the mounting portion 160, and the posture of the case 112 with respect to each mounting portion 166 becomes a predetermined posture at the time of the connection. Functions as a guide. The guide portion 150 is provided on two case side connecting portions (first case side connecting portion 151 and second case side connecting portion 152) provided on the case 112 side, and on the right mounting portion side (right mounting portion 170 side). At least two right connection parts (first right connection part 173a, second right connection part 173b) provided and at least two left connection parts (first attachment part provided on the left mounting part side (left mounting part 180 side)). A left side connecting part 183a and a second left side connecting part 183b). And at least two case side connection parts (first case side connection part 151 and second case side connection part 152) and at least two right side connection parts (first right side connection part 173a, second right side connection part 173b). By being connected to each other, the case 112 is attached to the right mounting part 170, and at least two case side connection parts (first case side connection part 151 and second case side connection part 152) and at least two left side connection parts (first 1 left connecting part 183a and second left connecting part 183b) are connected to each other so that case 112 is attached to the left mounting part (first left connecting part 183a and second left connecting part 183b). .

  In this configuration, the two case side connecting portions (the first case side connecting portion 151 and the second case side connecting portion 152) and the two right side connecting portions (the first right side connecting portion 173a and the second right side connecting portion 173b) are the first. The case 112 corresponds to one guide part, and the case 112 is detachably connected to the right mounting part 170, and when the case 112 is connected to the right mounting part 170, the posture of the case 112 with respect to the right mounting part 170 is the first. Guide to a predetermined posture. In addition, two case side connecting portions (first case side connecting portion 151 and second case side connecting portion 152) and two left side connecting portions (first left side connecting portion 183a, second left side connecting portion 183b) 2 corresponds to a guide portion, and the case 112 is detachably connected to the left mounting portion 180, and when the case 112 is connected to the left mounting portion 180, the posture of the case 112 with respect to the left mounting portion 180 is the second. Guide to a predetermined posture.

  In this configuration, as the two case-side connecting portions, a first case-side connecting portion 151 configured as a permanent magnet and a second case-side connecting portion 152 configured as a permanent magnet are provided. In addition, as the two right side connection parts, a first right side connection part 173a configured as a permanent magnet and a second right side connection part 173b configured as a permanent magnet are provided, and as the two left side connection parts, as a permanent magnet A first left connecting portion 183a configured and a second left connecting portion 183b configured as a permanent magnet are provided. The first case side connecting portion 151 is different in polarity from the first right connecting portion 173a and the first left connecting portion 183a, and the same polarity as the second right connecting portion 173b and the second left connecting portion 183b. The second case side connecting portion 152 is different in polarity from the second right connecting portion 173b and the second left connecting portion 183b, and has the same polarity as the first right connecting portion 173a and the first left connecting portion 183a.

  In this configuration, the first case side connecting portion 151 and the first right side connecting portion 173a have different polarities, and the first case side connecting portion 151 and the first right side connecting portion 173a are sucked and connected to each other. It has become. For example, the first case side connecting portion 151 is configured as a permanent magnet whose surface portion is configured as an N pole, and the first right side connecting portion 173a 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. Further, the second case side connecting portion 152 and the second right side connecting portion 173b have different polarities, and the second case side connecting portion 152 and the second right side connecting portion 173b are connected to each other by suction. ing. For example, the second case side connecting portion 152 is configured as a permanent magnet whose surface portion is configured as an S pole, and the second right side connecting portion 173b 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.

  Further, the first case side connecting portion 151 and the second right side connecting portion 173b have the same polarity, and the second case side connecting portion 152 and the first right side connecting portion 173a have the same polarity. In the above-described example, the first case side connecting portion 151 has a surface portion configured as an N pole, and the second right side connecting portion 173b also has a surface portion configured as an N pole. Sometimes they are repelling each other. In addition, since the second case side connecting portion 152 has a surface portion configured as an S pole, and the first right side connecting portion 173a also has a surface portion configured as an S pole, the surface portion is repelled when the surface portions face each other. It comes to meet each other.

  Similar to the right side, the first case side connecting part 151 and the first left side connecting part 183a have different polarities, and the first case side connecting part 151 and the first left side connecting part 183a are connected to each other by suction. It has a configuration. For example, the first case side coupling portion 151 is configured as a permanent magnet whose surface portion is configured as an N pole, and the first left side coupling portion 183a 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 polarity of the second case side connecting part 152 and the second left side connecting part 183b are different from each other, and the second case side connecting part 152 and the second left side connecting part 183b are sucked and connected to each other. ing. For example, the second case side connecting portion 152 is configured as a permanent magnet whose surface portion is configured as an S pole, and the second left side connecting portion 183b 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.

  Further, the first case side connecting portion 151 and the second left side connecting portion 183b have the same polarity, and the second case side connecting portion 152 and the first left side connecting portion 183a have the same polarity. In the above-described example, the first case side connecting portion 151 has a surface portion configured as an N pole, and the second left side connecting portion 183b also has a surface portion configured as an N pole. Sometimes they are repelling each other. Further, since the second case side connecting portion 152 has a surface portion configured as an S pole, and the first left side connecting portion 183a also has a surface portion configured as an S pole, the surface portion is repelled when the surface portions face each other. It comes to meet each other.

(Pre-registration process)
Next, the pre-registration process will be described.
The pre-registration process is performed when a predetermined registration start condition is satisfied (for example, when a predetermined registration start operation is performed on the operation switch 42 of the apparatus main body 111 or when another registration start condition is satisfied). It is what is said.

  In this pre-registration process, first, the first process is performed after arranging the arrangement environment as shown in FIG. This first step corresponds to a “preliminary imaging step”, and either an information code to be read or a code having the same size as the information code is transferred from the information code reader 1 to a predetermined reference distance Ha ( For example, an image is captured in advance by the imaging unit 23 of the information code reader 1 with a distance of 100 mm). For example, the arrangement state shown in FIG. 8 is set before or after the predetermined registration start condition described above is satisfied. When the predetermined imaging start condition is satisfied in the arrangement state as shown in FIG. 8 (for example, when a predetermined imaging start operation is performed on the operation switch 42), the reading device arranged as shown in FIG. 1, the information code separated from the reading device 1 by a distance Ha is imaged.

  In the following, a representative example is a method of imaging the information code itself to be read as an example of the pre-imaging step. However, it is only necessary to be able to specify the size of the information code to be read. You may image the code | cord | chord of the same size. When a plurality of types of information codes are assumed to be read, the respective types of information codes are respectively separated by the imaging unit 23 in a state where they are separated from the information code reading device 1 by a predetermined reference distance Ha (for example, 100 mm). What is necessary is just to image.

  For example, in FIG. 8, the front-rear direction of the apparatus main body 111 (the optical axis direction of the light receiving optical axis G shown in FIG. 7) is orthogonal to the display surface of the information code to be read (the information code C is shown in FIG. 8). The direction to be read is the same direction or substantially the same direction, and is arranged so that the information code to be read exists at a distance Ha from the front end of the apparatus main body 111 in the front-rear direction (optical axis direction) of the apparatus main body 111. Yes. In addition, in FIG. 8, the tool for fixing the apparatus main body 111 with such a positional relationship is notionally shown with the dashed-two dotted line. Then, after the apparatus main body 111 and the information code are arranged in the positional relationship as shown in FIG. 8, when a predetermined imaging start condition is satisfied (for example, a predetermined imaging start operation is performed on the operation switch 42). In some cases, the information code separated from the reading device 1 by the distance Ha is imaged by the reading device 1 arranged as shown in FIG.

  In this preliminary imaging step, it is desirable to image the information code so that the reference direction of the information code C to be read and the horizontal direction of the visual field range in the imaging unit 23 are the same or substantially the same. For example, when the reading target is the barcode C1 as shown in FIG. 9, the horizontal direction (direction perpendicular to the direction in which the bar extends) is the reference direction, and the horizontal direction of the barcode in the captured image as shown in FIG. And the horizontal direction of the captured image (pixel row direction) are preferably aligned in the same direction or substantially the same direction. When the reading target is a QR code C2 as shown in FIG. 11, the direction of any one of the rectangular boundaries of the code area of the QR code C2 and the horizontal direction of the captured image (pixel row direction). ) In the same direction or substantially the same direction. In this way, it is easy to accurately detect the length of the information code in the reference direction without performing inclination correction or the like.

  After performing the first step (preliminary imaging step) in this way, the information code reader 1 performs the second step. This second process corresponds to an example of a “calculation step”. For example, the second process is automatically started on the condition that the first process is completed, and is based on the captured image generated in the first process (preliminary imaging step). The measured value of the length of one or a plurality of predetermined code directions of the information code to be imaged in the first step is calculated in advance.

  Here, a specific example will be described. In the pre-registration process, the height Ha set in the first step (pre-imaging step) is known, and the visual field range that can be imaged by the imaging unit 23 is also known because it is determined by the configuration of the reading device 1. Here, for example, as shown in FIG. 9, the imaging unit 23 captures an image with an X1 × Y1 pixel configuration (a pixel configuration arranged in a matrix so that X1 pixels in the horizontal direction and Y1 pixels in the vertical direction). It is assumed that the configuration can be generated. That is, in a captured image (an image generated by imaging of the imaging unit 23) in which a large number of pixels are arranged in a matrix with a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns, the total number of pixels in the horizontal direction (row direction) is X1, The total number of pixels in the direction (column direction) is Y1.

  Then, a virtual plane at a position Ha from the front end of the apparatus main body 111 (a virtual plane orthogonal to the light receiving optical axis G shown in FIG. 7 and separated from the front end of the apparatus main body 111 by a distance Ha in the front-rear direction). In the plane), a rectangular range in which the horizontal direction is Xa and the vertical direction is Ya is captured. That is, the rectangular imaging area in this virtual plane (the area imaged by the imaging unit 23 in the virtual plane) has a predetermined horizontal length of Xa and a predetermined vertical length of Ya. . The values of Xa and Ya are values determined by Ha and the device configuration (particularly, the setting contents of the field of view range determined by the imaging unit 23 and the imaging lens 27). If Ha is known, Xa, The value of Ya is also a known value.

  In this configuration, one or more reference directions are predetermined for each type of information code, and in the case of the barcode C1 as shown in FIG. 9, the horizontal direction (direction orthogonal to the direction in which the bar extends) is the reference. Direction. Further, in the case of a QR code (registered trademark) as shown in FIG. 11, the direction F1 of any “one side” at the rectangular boundary forming the outer edge of the QR code, and orthogonal to this “one side” The direction F2 of the “other side” is the reference direction. When each information code in which the reference direction is determined in this way is imaged in the positional relationship as shown in FIG. 8, if the number of pixels in the code area in the reference direction can be grasped, the actual length in the reference direction is calculated. be able to.

  For example, when the information code C (barcode C1) at the position Ha is imaged as shown in FIG. 9 in the pre-imaging step as shown in FIG. 8, the reference direction of the barcode C1 in this captured image (the direction in which the bar extends) When the number of pixels in the code area in the orthogonal arrangement direction and the reference direction in FIG. 9 is indicated by an alternate long and short dash line) is Xα pixels, the length of the barcode C1 in the reference direction (actual length) Xb Can be obtained by a calculation formula of Xb = Xα × Xa / X1.

  For example, in the pre-imaging step of FIG. 8, the reference distance Ha is 100 mm, and the total number of pixels X1 in the horizontal direction in the captured image is 752 pixels as shown in FIG. The number Y1 is 480 pixels, and is a virtual plane at a position of Ha (100 mm) (a virtual plane orthogonal to the light receiving optical axis G by the imaging unit 23 and separated from the front end of the apparatus main body 111 by a distance Ha in the front-rear direction. In the case where a rectangular range having a horizontal direction of 72 mm (Xa) and a vertical direction of 46 mm (Ya) is imaged as an imaging area, the pre-imaging step of FIG. 8 is obtained as shown in FIG. In the area of the barcode C1 included in the captured image, if the number of pixels of the code area in the reference direction is 189 pixels, the length (actual length) X in the reference direction (lateral direction) in the barcode C1 Is, Xb = 189 × 72/752 = 18, and the actual length Xb can be identified as 18 mm.

  Similarly, the length of the reference direction can be calculated for other types of information codes. For example, when the information code C (QR code (registered trademark) C2) at the position Ha is imaged as shown in FIG. 11 in the pre-imaging step, the code area in the first reference direction F1 of the QR code C2 in the captured image is displayed. When the number of pixels is Xα1 and the number of pixels in the code area in the second reference direction F2 is Yα1 pixels, the length Xb1 of the QR code C2 in the first reference direction F1 is Xb1 = Xα1 × Xa / X1 It can obtain | require with the calculation formula. Further, the length Yb1 in the second reference direction can be obtained by a calculation formula of Yb1 = Yα1 × Xa / X1 (or Yb1 = Yα1 × Ya / Y1).

  After performing the second step (calculation step) in this way, the information code reader 1 performs the third step. This third process corresponds to an example of a “registration step”, and is automatically executed, for example, on the condition that the second process ends. In the third step, the imaging unit 23 captures a virtual plane that is executed by the control circuit 40 and has a reference distance Ha that is a predetermined known value and a distance from the information code reader 1 at the reference distance Ha. The length in a predetermined direction within the field of view in the virtual plane (for example, the horizontal length Xa in the rectangular imaging area on the virtual plane) and the second step (calculation step) described above. A value reflecting the calculated actual value (the value of Xb or the values of Xb1 and Yb1 described above) is registered in advance in the memory 35 of the information code reader 1 as a reference reflection value.

  For example, for the information code C (barcode C1) as shown in FIG. 9, the length (measured value) Xb in the reference direction obtained in the calculation step for the barcode C1, the reference distance Ha described above, The horizontal length Xa in the visual field range shown in FIG. 9 is registered as basic information 1 about the information code (barcode C1 as code 1) as shown in FIG. For the information code (QR code C2) as shown in FIG. 11, the length (measured value) Xb1 in the first reference direction obtained in the calculation step for the QR code C2 and the length in the second reference direction. (Measured value) Yb1, the above-mentioned reference distance Ha, and the horizontal length Xa in the visual field range shown in FIG. 11 are shown as basic information 2 about the information code (QR code C2 as code 2). 12 is registered. The first to third steps can be performed for each code type assumed to be read, the length in the reference direction can be calculated for each code type, and other than the barcode C1 and the QR code C2. The information code can be registered in the same manner. Then, as shown in FIG. 12, the length in the reference direction, the information on the reference distance, and the lateral length Xa of the visual field range on the virtual plane are registered in association with each code type.

  The memory 35 corresponds to an example of a registration unit, and functions to register in advance a reference reflection value that reflects the reference size of the information code to be read. Specifically, a predetermined plane reference distance Ha and a virtual plane whose distance from the information code reading device 1 is the reference distance Ha within the visual field range in the virtual plane when the imaging unit 23 captures an image. An object whose length is Xa in a predetermined direction (lateral direction) and the distance from the information code reader 1 is set to the reference distance Ha is the information code (the type of code to be read) or the same size as the information code. Measured values of the length in one or more predetermined code directions of one of the codes obtained from the captured image when any of the codes is attached (Xb, QR code in the barcode C1) C2 functions to register values reflecting Xb1, Yb1) as reference reflected values.

  In the case of the barcode C1, the value of Xb is the reference size, and in the case of the QR code C2, the values of Xb1 and Yb1, or the average value thereof ((Xb1 + Yb1) / 2) is the reference size. In the case of the barcode C1, the values of Ha, Xa, and Xb themselves may be registered in the memory 35 as reference reflected values, and values obtained by processing these values (for example, values obtained by encrypting each of the values or predetermined calculations). A value converted by an expression or the like) may be registered as a reference reflection value. In the case of the QR code C2, the values of Ha, Xa, Xb1, and Yb1 may be registered in the memory 35 as reference reflected values. In addition to Ha and Xa, the average value of Xb1 and Yb1 ((Xb1 + Yb1) / 2) may be registered in the memory 35 as a reference reflection value. Alternatively, values obtained by processing these (for example, values obtained by encrypting each of the values or values obtained by converting each of the values by a predetermined arithmetic expression) may be registered as the reference reflection value.

  In the above-described representative example, the length of the reference direction of the information code C is calculated through the first step and the second step. However, the reference direction of the information code is not obtained through these steps, but by another method. You may know the length. For example, as shown in FIG. 13, the length Xb of the barcode C1 in the reference direction may be measured using a ruler or the like, and the length Xb1 of the QR code C2 in the first reference direction may be measured using a ruler or the like. The length Xb in the second reference direction may be measured. In this case, the measured value may be used for registration in the third step.

  Further, a fourth step is performed in the information code reader 1. The fourth step corresponds to a permission range registration step, and is a step of determining a permission range for each target. For example, when a hand-held baggage is read as shown in FIG. 14, the distance to the code changes depending on the height of the user and the length of the arm. Therefore, if a permission range is set for each user or each user classification, it is assumed The permission range suitable for the user or the user classification to be set is set, and it becomes easier to eliminate unnecessary information codes with higher accuracy. Therefore, such a registration method is adopted. Note that the fourth step may be performed prior to the first step, for example, regardless of the order of the first to third steps.

  Specifically, an individual user or a group of users is determined as a target of use, and a plurality of such targets can be registered. In this fourth step, when information that associates the object of use with the corresponding permission range is input by some method (for example, input from the outside via the communication unit 48, This correspondence information is registered in the memory 35 when information is input using the provided operation unit).

  For example, in the example of FIG. 15, α1 (58 cm to 78 cm) is defined as the permission range for the user A who is relatively low in height, and the subject information of the use target A and the permission range as illustrated in FIG. 16. α1 information is registered in association with each other. Similarly, α2 (65 cm to 85 cm) is determined as the permitted range for the user B who is tall to some extent, and the subject information of the usage target B is associated with the information of the permitted range α2 as shown in FIG. Registered. Further, α3 (90 cm to 110 cm) is defined as the permitted range for the user C who is quite tall, and the subject information of the usage target C and the information of the permitted range α3 are associated as shown in FIG. Registered. In addition, the permission ranges can be registered in association with other users or user groups (user classifications). In this configuration, the memory 35 corresponds to an example of an individual permission range registration unit, and a plurality of pieces of individual permission range information are registered in a form in which a permission range is defined for each use target (for each user or for each user classification). It has a configuration.

(Reading process)
Next, the reading process will be described.
In the reading device 1, the reading process is performed according to the flow as shown in FIG.
This reading process is executed when a predetermined start condition is satisfied (for example, when a power is turned on or a predetermined reading start operation is performed on the operation unit). In this configuration, it is possible to input information for specifying the use target prior to the reading process of FIG. 17 or immediately after the start of the reading process of FIG. For example, when designation information for designating one of the usage targets registered in the memory 35 is input by operating the operation switch 42 or inputting information through communication from an external device, the control circuit 40 sets the usage target. Information is acquired, and the permitted range associated with the use target can be read from the memory 35. For example, when the designation information designating the usage target A is input, the control circuit 40 acquires the information on the usage target A and obtains the permission range α1 (FIG. 16) associated with the usage target A from the memory 35. Will be read.

  In this configuration, the control circuit 40 corresponds to an example of an information acquisition unit, and functions to acquire information (the specified information) that identifies the user or the classification of the user. The control circuit 40 and the memory 35 correspond to an example of an individual information setting unit, and refer to the memory 35 (individual permission range registration unit) based on the information (the specified information) acquired by the information acquisition unit in this way. Then, which individual permission range information is used among the plurality of individual permission range information registered in the individual permission range registration unit is set. For example, when the use target A is specified as described above, the individual permission range information associated with the use target A (permission range α1 associated with the use target A) is read out and is used in a usable state. Set to hold in the memory area.

  In the reading process of FIG. 17, after the execution of the process is started, the information code reading process is performed (S1). The process of S1 corresponds to an example of an imaging step, and is a step of imaging an information code by the imaging unit 23 of the information code reading device 1 using the information code reading device 1 configured through the registration step described above. .

  In the present configuration, after the processing of FIG. 17 is started, the imaging process by the imaging unit 23 is continuously performed, and when the information code enters the visual field range of the imaging unit 23 and the information code is imaged, the information code is publicly known. (S1). As the information code, a plurality of types of information codes such as a barcode C1 and a QR code C2 are assumed to be read, and for a captured image, a plurality of types of assumed information codes are decoded. You can try the decryption method. The process of S1 is performed until, for example, a captured image in which a code area of any information code is recognized is obtained and decoding is performed on the code area of the captured image by a known method.

  When a captured image in which the code area is recognized in S1 is obtained and decoding is attempted, it is determined in S2 whether or not reading is possible (whether or not decoding is successful). Then, an inquiry is made to the area (reference position code information database) in the memory 35 where the information of FIG. 12 is stored, and the process proceeds to S3, where it is determined that the information code (imaged at S1 and decoding was successful at S2). The distance X to the information code) is calculated. If it is determined in S2 that the reading has failed, the process proceeds to No in S2, and a predetermined failure process (for example, error notification) is performed in S6. Note that the process of S6 may be omitted. Also, after the process of S6, the process of FIG. 17 is terminated, but the process of FIG. 17 may be immediately re-executed on condition that the process of FIG. 17 is terminated.

  In S3, a captured image of the information code that was successfully read (decoded successfully) in S2 (a captured image when the information code was captured in S1, that is, an image used for decoding that was successful in S2) and The distance X to the information code successfully read in S2 is calculated based on the registered contents in the area (reference position code information database) in FIG. 12 in the memory 35 referred to in S2.

Here, a method of calculating the distance X from the reading device 1 to the information code that has been successfully read (successful decoding) will be described.
When calculating the distance X, first, the captured image of the information code determined to be successfully read (successful decoding) in S2 is analyzed, and the number of pixels Xz of the entire code area in the reference direction with this information code is calculated. . For example, when the information code that has been successfully read (decoded successfully) in S2 is the barcode C1 as shown in FIG. 18, between the code regions at both ends in the reference direction of the barcode C1 (the direction perpendicular to the direction in which the bar extends) The number of pixels is calculated. In S2, the reading succeeds (when the information code that has been successfully decoded is the QR code C2 as shown in FIG. 20, the number of pixels Xz1 on one side of the QR code C2 and other information orthogonal to the one side) The number of pixels Yz1 of the side is calculated.

  Specifically, first, the code area of the information code is specified in the captured image of the information code that has been successfully read in S2, and the inclination of the information code is obtained by a known method. Various known methods can be used as the tilt detection method, such as JP-A-6-139382, JP-A-7-334605, JP-A-9-185671, JP-A-2013-45149, and the like. Can be obtained by the method described in the above. The inclination θ is a value indicating an angle formed by the reference direction of the information code (any one when there are two reference directions) and a predetermined lateral direction (row direction of the pixel array) in the captured image.

  In this configuration, the control circuit 40 corresponds to an example of an inclination detection unit, and functions to detect the inclination of the information code in the reference direction in the captured image when the information code is imaged by the imaging unit 23. .

  In the captured image of the information code that has been successfully read in S2, when an angle θ between a predetermined lateral direction (the row direction of the pixel array configured in a matrix) and the reference direction of the information code is calculated. Calculates the number of pixels between both ends in the reference direction in the code area of the information code in this captured image. When the information code successfully read in S2 is the barcode C1 as shown in FIG. 21, the number of pixels Xz between both ends in the reference direction (direction perpendicular to the direction in which the bar extends) is calculated by the following method. To do. When the information code that has been successfully read in S2 is a QR code C2 as shown in FIG. 22, the number of pixels Xz1 between both ends of one side in the first reference direction and the other side in the second reference direction. The number of pixels Yz1 between both ends is calculated by the following method.

  As shown in FIG. 21, when the information code successfully read in S2 is the bar code C1, in the captured image of the bar code C1, one imaginary line (in FIG. 21) extends in the code area and extends in the reference direction. , A single dot-and-dash line passing through the inside of the code area) is set, and both end positions P1 and P2 of the code area on the virtual line are specified. Then, the number of pixels Lx between the two end positions P1 and P2 in the horizontal direction (pixel array row direction) of the captured image is detected, and the both end positions P1 and P2 in the vertical direction (pixel array column direction) of the captured image are detected. The number of pixels Ly in between is also detected. Then, the number of pixels Xz in the reference direction (the number of pixels only in the entire region) is calculated by the following equation (1). In addition, what is necessary is just to perform rounding up, rounding down, rounding off, etc. after a decimal point.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 22, when the information code that has been successfully read in S2 is the QR code C2, in the captured image of the QR code C2, both ends of any one side at the rectangular boundary of the QR code C2 Parts (vertex of the corners of the two finder patterns in the example of FIG. 22) P11 and P12 are specified. Furthermore, both ends (vertices of corners of two finder patterns in the example of FIG. 22) P12 and P13 of any other side (side orthogonal to the one side) at the rectangular boundary of the QR code C2 Identify. In FIG. 22, the virtual straight line including the one side is denoted by Fα, and the virtual straight line including the other side is denoted by Fβ. Then, the number of pixels Lx1 between both end positions P11 and P12 in the horizontal direction (pixel array row direction) of the captured image is detected, and between the both end positions P11 and P12 in the vertical direction (pixel array column direction) of the captured image. The number of pixels Ly1 is also detected. Then, the number Xz1 of pixels in the first reference direction (the number of pixels that are only in the entire area of one side) is calculated by the following equation (2). In addition, what is necessary is just to perform rounding up, rounding down, rounding off, etc. after a decimal point.

  Similarly, the number Lx2 of pixels between both end positions P12 and P13 in the horizontal direction (pixel array row direction) of the captured image shown in FIG. 22 is detected, and both end positions in the vertical direction (pixel array column direction) of the captured image. The number of pixels Ly2 between P12 and P13 is also detected. Then, the number of pixels Yz1 in the second reference direction (the number of pixels only in the entire area on the other side) is calculated by the following equation (3). In addition, what is necessary is just to perform rounding up, rounding down, rounding off, etc. after a decimal point.

  In this configuration, the control circuit 40 corresponds to an example of a size detection unit, and functions to detect a size reflection value reflecting the size of the information code when the information code is imaged by the imaging unit 23. Specifically, based on the detection result of the inclination of the reference direction in the captured image of the imaged information code, a size reflection value that reflects the length of one or more reference directions defined in the information code is detected. To do. For example, in the case of the barcode C1 as shown in FIG. 21, the number of pixels (the number of deemed pixels) Xz calculated by the above-described method corresponds to an example of the size reflection value, and the actual length of the barcode C1 in the reference direction. This is information that reflects (Xb registered in the pre-registration process). In the case of the QR code C2 as shown in FIG. 22, the pixel numbers (deemed pixel numbers) Xz1 and Yz1 calculated by the above-described method correspond to an example of the size reflection value, and the first reference direction of the QR code C2 The actual length (Xb1 registered in the pre-registration process) and the actual length in the second reference direction (Yb1 registered in the pre-registration process) are respectively reflected.

  As described above, when the number of pixels between both ends of the code area in the reference direction is calculated, the distance X to the information code is calculated using the number of pixels. In this calculation, a known information code size Xr is used. For example, in the case of calculating the distance when the barcode C1 is read, the reference direction length Xb registered in advance in association with the barcode C1 is the known size Xr. Further, in the case of calculating the distance when the QR code C2 is read, the length Xb1 in the first reference direction and the length Yb1 in the second reference direction registered in advance in association with the QR code C2 Is the known size Xr (ie, (Xb1 + Yb1) / 2).

  The information code determined to have been successfully read in S2 of FIG. 17 is the barcode C1, and the captured image (captured image captured in S1) used for decoding the barcode C1 is captured with the barcode C1 at the distance X. In the case of an image obtained in this way, the image is taken on a virtual plane that passes through the position of the barcode C1 (position of the distance X) and is orthogonal to the front-rear direction (the direction of the light receiving optical axis G of the reading device 1 (FIG. 7)). The horizontal length of the area imaged by the unit 23 (reading visual field size) is X2. In this case, when the distance X is larger than the reference distance Ha, the relationship is as shown in FIG. 23, and when the distance X is smaller than the reference distance Ha, the relationship is as shown in FIG. Then, the captured image (the captured image used for decoding the barcode C1) is analyzed, the number of pixels in the reference direction of the barcode C1 is obtained by the above method (see FIG. 21), and the value of X2 is calculated as follows. X2 = X1 × Xr / Xz. In the case of the barcode C1, Xr is Xb obtained by the pre-registration process for the barcode C1, and the value of Xb is registered in the memory 35 in association with the barcode C1. The actual distance X to the barcode C1 can be obtained by X = Ha × X2 / Xa. Ha and Xa may be registered in the memory 35 in association with the barcode C1.

  For example, as in the example of FIG. 10, when Ha is 100 mm, Xa is 72 mm, X1 is 752 pixels, and Xb is 18 mm, a captured image as shown in FIG. X2) can be calculated by X2 = 752 × 18/114, and X2 is approximately 118.7 mm. The reading distance (distance X to the barcode C1) can be obtained by X = 100 × 118.7 / 72, and X is about 165 mm.

  In addition, the information code determined to have been successfully read in S2 of FIG. 17 is the QR code C2, and the QR code in which the captured image (captured image captured in S1) to be read by the QR code C2 is at the distance X In the case of an image obtained by imaging C2, in this case as well, it passes through the position of QR code C2 (position of distance X) and in the front-rear direction (direction of light receiving optical axis G (FIG. 7) of reading device 1). Let X2 be the horizontal length (viewing field size at the time of reading) of the region imaged by the imaging unit 23 in the orthogonal virtual plane. And X2 can be calculated | required by X2 = X1 * Xr / Xv. Xv is an average value of the number of pixels Xz1 and Yz1 (FIG. 22) in the first reference direction and the second reference direction obtained by the above-described method, and Xv = (Xz1 + Yz1) / 2. In the case of the QR code C2, Xr is an average value of Xb1 and Yb1 registered in advance, and Xr = (Xb1 + Yb1) / 2. The actual distance X to the QR code C2 can be obtained by X = Ha × X2 / Xa.

  In addition, when the information code determined to have been successfully read in S2 of FIG. 17 is the QR code C2, the distance X may be calculated by the following method instead of the method described above. For example, when the captured image (captured image captured in S1) that is the target of reading the QR code C2 is an image obtained by capturing the QR code C2 at the distance X, the position of the QR code C2 (distance X ) And the horizontal length of the area imaged by the imaging unit 23 in the virtual plane orthogonal to the front-rear direction (the direction of the light receiving optical axis G (FIG. 7) of the reading device 1) (viewing field size during reading) Is X2. X2 can be obtained by two methods. The first method is X2 = X1 × Xb1 / Xz1, and the second method is X2 = X1 × Yb1 / Yz1. When X2 obtained by the first method is X21, the actual distance X ′ to the QR code C2 can be obtained by X ′ = Ha × X21 / Xa. In addition, when X2 obtained by the second method is X22, the actual distance X ″ to the QR code C2 can be obtained by X = Ha × X22 / Xa. X can be an average of the distance X ′ and the distance X ″ and can be set to X = (X ′ + X ″) / 2. By doing so, it becomes difficult to depend on the state of the code.

  Thus, when the distance X to the information code determined to have been successfully read in S2 of FIG. 17 is calculated, refer to the area (read permission range database) in the memory 35 where the information of FIG. 16 is stored. The calculated distance X is within the currently set permission range (the permission range associated with the use target read and set from the memory 35 according to the input of the use target described above). Judge whether there is. If it is determined that the distance X is not within the currently set permitted range, the process proceeds to No in S4 of FIG. 17, and a predetermined failure process is performed (S6). The failure process of S6 may be a process that stops at least the decoding result in S1, and other processes (for example, notification of failure) may or may not be performed.

  In the determination process of S4 of FIG. 17, when it is determined that the distance X calculated in S3 is within the currently set permission range, the process proceeds to Yes in S4, and a predetermined success process is performed. In this success process, for example, the decoding result of the information code that has been successfully read in S1 and S2 is output, and notification that the reading has been successful is performed. The output of the decoding result of the information code may be a display process such as displaying on the display unit, a transmission process such as transmitting to an external device, or a process such as printing. Processing that reads out the decoding result by voice may be used. In addition, the notification of success may be a predetermined illumination process using an illumination means such as an LED, a predetermined audio process that emits a buzzer sound, or vibration such as a vibrator. May be.

  In this configuration, the processes of S3 and S4 correspond to an example of a determination step, and whether or not the distance X from the information code reading device 1 to the information code imaged in the imaging step is within a predetermined permission range. This is a step of determining by the determination unit of the information code reader 1. In addition, the control circuit 40 corresponds to an example of a determination unit, and the information code reading device 1 uses the reference reflection value registered in the memory 35 (registration unit) and the size reflection value detected by the size detection unit. It functions to calculate the distance X to the information code and determine whether or not the calculated distance X is within a predetermined permission range. More specifically, the control circuit 40 corresponding to the determination unit determines that the distance X from the information code reading device 1 to the information code is based on any individual permission range information set as a use target by the individual information setting unit. It is the structure which determines whether it is in the permission range.

  The processing of S4, S5, and S6 corresponds to an example of an output control step, and outputs the decoding result of the information code on condition that the distance X to the information code is determined to be within the permitted range by the determination unit. A step of performing output control by the output control unit of the information code reading device 1 so that the decoding result of the information code is not output when the determination unit determines that the distance X to the information code is not within the permitted range; It has become.

  The control circuit 40 corresponds to an example of an output control unit, and outputs a result of decoding the information code on condition that the determination unit determines that the distance X to the information code is within the permitted range. When it is determined that the distance X to the information code is not within the permitted range, the output function is controlled so as not to output the decoding result of the information code.

(Example of effects of this configuration)
In this configuration, the determination unit that determines whether the distance from the information code reader 1 to the information code is within a predetermined permitted range, and the distance to the information code by the determination unit is within the permitted range. Output the decoding result of the information code on the condition that it is determined, and output control not to output the decoding result of the information code when the determination unit determines that the distance to the information code is not within the permitted range An output control unit for performing
According to this configuration, when the information code is read, the determination unit can determine whether the distance to the information code is within a predetermined distance range. If the distance to the information code is not within the permitted range, the determination unit makes a determination to that effect. In this case, the output control unit controls the output so that the decoding result of the information code is not output. Will be made. For example, when there are a plurality of information codes in the visual field range, the reading result is limited to the information codes arranged at an appropriate distance (within a predetermined permission range). For information codes that exist within a distance range that is not desired to be read (outside a predetermined allowable range), it is possible to prevent the reading result from being output.

  In particular, this configuration has a relatively small information code (information code within an appropriate distance range) that the user is trying to read, and a remote information code (information code that is outside the permitted range) that the user is not trying to read. This is effective when the value is quite large. For example, even if an information code at an appropriate distance is relatively small and can be selectively read without being excluded, even an information code that appears large in a captured image is an information code at a far position outside the permitted range. If there is, it can be eliminated without outputting.

  In addition, since the distance range that is expected to be read can be a requirement, reading of an information code in an unnecessary distance range can be eliminated regardless of the type and size of the information code. Easy-to-understand restrictions are possible.

  Further, in this configuration, when the information code is imaged by the imaging unit 23, a size detection unit that detects a size reflection value reflecting the size of the information code is provided. Then, the determination unit determines whether the distance from the information code reader 1 to the information code is within the permitted range based on the size reflection value detected by the size detection unit. According to this configuration, it is possible to determine whether or not the information code is arranged at an appropriate distance (within a predetermined permission range) using the information code image captured by the imaging unit 23. It becomes easy to simplify the configuration. In addition, since the distance to the information code can be determined using the image of the actually captured information code itself, it becomes easier to determine the distance to the information code with higher accuracy.

  Furthermore, this configuration includes a registration unit in which a reference reflection value that reflects the reference size of the information code to be read is registered in advance. Then, the determination unit calculates the distance from the information code reader 1 to the information code based on the reference reflected value registered in the registration unit and the detection size of the information code detected by the size detection unit, It is configured to determine whether or not the calculated distance is within the permitted range. In this way, a method for calculating the distance based on the reference reflection value and the detected size of the detected information code by previously registering the reference reflection value that reflects the reference size of the information code to be read. If used, it becomes easier to calculate the distance to the information code more accurately based on an appropriate criterion assumed in advance. Then, if it is determined whether or not the information code is arranged at an appropriate distance (within a predetermined allowable range) based on such a highly accurate distance, a more appropriate determination can be made.

  Furthermore, in this configuration, a predetermined reference distance within a visual field range in the virtual plane when the imaging unit 23 images a virtual plane having a predetermined reference distance and a distance from the information code reading device 1 at the reference distance. An image captured when any one of the codes is captured in a state where the length of the direction and the distance from the information code reading device 1 are set to the reference distance and the information code or the code having the same size as the information code is attached. A value reflecting one or a plurality of actually measured lengths in the predetermined code direction of any one of the codes obtained from (1) is registered as a reference reflection value in the registration unit. In this way, if the predetermined reference distance, the length in the predetermined direction with respect to the virtual plane, and the measured value of the length in the predetermined code direction with respect to the information code or the code having the same size as the information code can be grasped in some form, The distance to the information code can be calculated more accurately from the image of the information code in the captured image obtained when performing the determination.

  In addition, the information code to be read has a predetermined reference direction defined in advance, and when the information code is imaged by the imaging unit 23, the inclination of the information code in the captured direction in the captured image An inclination detecting unit for detecting Then, the size detection unit is configured to detect a size reflection value reflecting the length of the reference direction in the information code based on the detection result of the reference direction inclination by the inclination detection unit. When calculating the distance to the information code based on the image of the information code included in the captured image, first, the inclination detection unit grasps the inclination of the information code in the reference direction, and reflects the length of the reference direction. If the size reflection value is detected, it can be detected more accurately than a value reflecting the actual length of the information code included in the captured image (the actual length in the reference direction). If the distance to the information code is calculated based on the highly accurate measurement value obtained in this way (a value reflecting the length in the reference direction), the distance to the information code can be calculated more accurately. can do.

  In this configuration, the individual permission range registration unit in which a plurality of individual permission range information is registered in a form in which the permission range is defined for each user or for each user classification, and the user or user classification are specified. Based on the information acquisition unit that acquires information and the information acquired by the information acquisition unit, set which individual permission range information to use from among the plurality of individual permission range information registered in the individual permission range registration unit And an individual information setting unit. Then, the determination unit determines whether the distance from the information code reading device to the information code is within the permitted range based on any individual permitted range information set as a use target by the individual information setting unit. It has a configuration. According to this configuration, the permission range can be determined for each user or for each user classification, and when any user uses, individual permission range information corresponding to the user is set as individual information. It becomes possible to select and use depending on the part. When the user actually reads, it is possible to determine whether or not the distance from the information code reading device to the information code is within the permitted range based on a criterion according to the user. Become.

  Also, with this configuration, multiple types of information codes are defined as reading targets, and multiple types of permitted range information are registered in a form that defines the permitted range corresponding to each type of information code. Department. Then, when any type of information code is imaged by the imaging unit, the determination unit determines the distance from the information code reading device to the information code based on the type-specific permission range information corresponding to the type of the imaged image. Is configured to determine whether or not is within the permitted range. If comprised in this way, it will become possible to set the permission range (range specified by the type-specific permission range information associated with the information code type) for each information code type. When the information code is imaged, the information code reading device follows the permission range associated with the captured type (the range specified by the type-specific permission range information associated with the type). It is possible to determine whether or not the distance to the information code is within the permitted range based on the standard according to the type.

  In this configuration, the processing unit that processes the image of the information code imaged by the imaging unit 23, the case 112 that holds the imaging unit 23, and the case 112 are provided integrally or separately from the imaging unit 23. And a mounting portion 160 for attaching the apparatus main body 110 having the processing portion held by the case 112 to the user. According to this configuration, the information code reading device 1 can be functioned as a wearable terminal that is attached to a user and used. When functioning as a wearable terminal in this way, it becomes easy to face in various directions unconsciously, and thus it becomes easy to select an information code at a far position that is not supposed to be read as a reading target. For example, since it is easy to exclude an information code that is not an appropriate distance, it functions more effectively when applied to such a terminal.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, a second embodiment will be described. The second embodiment is different from the first embodiment in the content of step S3 in FIG. 17, and is otherwise the same as the first embodiment. Therefore, since the parts other than S3 in FIG. 17 are the same as those in the first embodiment, a detailed description thereof will be omitted, and points different from the first embodiment will be mainly described. The description will be made with reference to FIGS. 1 to 7 as appropriate.

  Also in this configuration, the sensor unit 46 is provided, and the sensor unit 46 functions as a distance sensor that measures the distance from the information code reader 1 to an object arranged on the imaging side by the imaging unit 23. In this example, the processes of S1 and S2 are performed in the same manner as in the first embodiment, and when the reading is successful (decoding success) in S2, the sensor unit 46 (distance sensor) at the time of the successful reading. Find the detection distance. Specifically, at the time of advancing to Yes in S2, an object disposed on the image capturing side by the image capturing unit 23 (an object disposed on the extension of the light receiving optical axis G by the image capturing unit 23 and closest to the front end of the apparatus main body 111) ) Is calculated by the sensor unit 46, and the distance thus detected is used as the distance X to the information code. Note that the processing after S4 (FIG. 17) after the distance X is detected in this way is the same as in the first embodiment.

  Also in this configuration, the control circuit 40 corresponds to an example of a determination unit. In this configuration, the control circuit 40 functioning as a determination unit determines that the distance X from the information code reading device 1 to the information code is within the permitted range based on the measurement result of the distance to the object by the sensor unit 46 (distance sensor). It is the structure which determines whether it is in.

  If the sensor unit 46 (distance sensor) is used to measure the distance to the object as in this configuration, the distance to the object can be detected more quickly and more accurately. If the information code is attached to the object, the distance to the information code can be detected more quickly and more accurately.

  In addition, when using the structure which measures the distance to an object by the sensor part 46 (distance sensor) in this way, for example, immediately after the information code is read as described above (determined that the information code has been successfully read in S2). The detection value obtained by the distance sensor immediately after the image is obtained, or the distance sensor at the time when this information code is imaged (at the time of imaging at S1 for the image of the information code determined to be successful at S2) If a method is used in which the detection value is the distance X to the information code determined to have been successfully read in S2, the distance to the information code can be detected more accurately.

[Third Embodiment]
Next, a third embodiment will be described. The third embodiment includes all the configurations of the first embodiment, and further adds new features. Therefore, the added new feature will be described mainly, and detailed description of the same parts as those in the first embodiment will be omitted. Note that FIGS. 1 to 24 will be referred to as appropriate.

  In this configuration, a plurality of reading modes are defined in association with mode switching conditions corresponding to the respective reading modes. Specifically, a horizontal reading mode as shown in FIG. 25 is defined as mode 1, and this horizontal reading mode is switched to this mode when a predetermined first mode setting condition is satisfied. Further, as mode 2, a tilt reading mode as shown in FIG. 26 is defined, and this tilt reading mode is switched to this mode when a predetermined second mode setting condition is satisfied. Note that modes other than these may be set.

  The mode switching condition can be various conditions. For example, when a predetermined first input operation to be set to mode 1 is performed by the reading device 1 by the user, the mode is set to mode 1, and the mode is changed to mode 2 by the user. The first switching method may be such that mode 2 is set when a predetermined second input operation to be set is performed in the reading device 1. Alternatively, the reader 1 may be set to a mode corresponding to the posture of the reader 1 (the direction of the optical axis direction G with respect to the horizontal direction). Specifically, a triaxial acceleration sensor capable of detecting acceleration in predetermined three directions determined to be orthogonal to each other in the apparatus main body 111 is provided, and an angle formed between the direction of the light receiving optical axis G and the horizontal direction. When the angle θ1 formed between the direction of the light receiving optical axis G and the horizontal direction is less than a predetermined angle (threshold) (see FIG. 25, the horizontal direction of the light receiving optical axis G and the horizontal direction). When the angle θ1 between the direction of the light receiving optical axis G and the horizontal direction is equal to or greater than a predetermined angle (threshold) (as shown in FIG. 26) In the case where the angle formed by G and the horizontal direction is large), the second switching method as set in mode 2 may be used. Hereinafter, a case where the second switching method is used will be described as a representative example.

  In this configuration, the control circuit 40 corresponds to an example of a mode switching unit, and a plurality of reading modes are determined in association with mode switching conditions corresponding to the respective reading modes. It functions to set the reading mode corresponding to the established mode switching condition.

  In this configuration, instead of the permission range registration method as shown in FIG. 16, the permission range is registered by the method as shown in FIG. In this example, the method of FIG. 16, that is, the method of determining the allowable range of distance for each use target (for each user or each user classification) is further subdivided, and in each mode, for each use target (for each user or each user) The permissible range of distance is defined for each user classification). For example, when the use target is set to A, the permitted range α11 is used when the reading apparatus 1 is in mode 1, and the permitted range α21 is used when in mode 2. When the use target is set to B, the permitted range α12 is used when the reading apparatus 1 is in the mode 1, and the permitted range α21 is used when the reading device 1 is in the mode 2. As described above, when the use target is determined and the mode is determined, the permission range can be specified by the registered information as shown in FIG.

  In this configuration, the memory 35 corresponds to an example of a per-mode permissible range registration unit, and a plurality of per-mode permissible range information is registered in a form that defines permissible ranges corresponding to a plurality of reading modes. Yes.

  The reading process is performed in the flow of FIG. 17 as in the first embodiment, and the processes from S1 to S3 are performed in the same manner as in the first embodiment. The method for specifying the use target is the same as that in the first embodiment. For example, the memory can be used by operating the operation switch 42 or inputting information by communication from an external device immediately before or after the start of the reading process in FIG. When the designation information designating any of the usage targets registered in 35 is input, the control circuit 40 grasps the usage target specified by the designation information. In the processes of S3 and S4, which will be described later, a determination process is performed by selecting a permission range associated with the use target.

  When the processes of S1 to S3 in FIG. 17 are performed in the same manner as in the first embodiment and the distance X to the information code is calculated in S3, the area in FIG. Referring to the range database), the permission range corresponding to the currently set usage target and the mode at the time of S3 is read. Note that the mode set at the time of S3 is determined by, for example, detecting the angle θ1 between the direction of the light receiving optical axis G and the vertical direction at the time of S3, and the direction of the light receiving optical axis G and the horizontal direction. If the angle θ1 is less than a predetermined angle (threshold), the mode 1 is selected. If the angle θ1 formed between the direction of the light receiving optical axis G and the horizontal direction is equal to or larger than the predetermined angle, the mode 2 is selected. For example, if the use target is defined as A by the designation information described above and the angle θ1 formed by the direction of the light receiving optical axis G and the horizontal direction is less than a predetermined angle (threshold) at the time of S3, Since the reading mode is mode 1, the permission range α11 associated with mode 1 and the use target A is selected from the registration information as shown in FIG.

  In this configuration, the memory 35 and the control circuit 40 correspond to an example of a mode-specific setting unit, and a plurality of mode-specific permission range information registered in the mode-specific permission range registration unit based on the reading mode set by the mode switching unit. It functions to set which mode-specific permission range information is used.

  The processing after S4 after reading the permission range from the memory 35 in S3 is the same as in the first embodiment, and the distance X calculated in S3 is the permission range read from the memory 35 (that is, the current range). It is determined whether it is within the permitted range) that is associated with the object of use and registered in association with the reading mode at the time of S3. (S5), if it is out of the permitted range, failure processing similar to that of the first embodiment is performed (S6).

  In this configuration, the control circuit 40 corresponds to an example of a determination unit, and the distance from the information code reading device 1 to the information code (based on any mode-specific permission range information set as a use target by the mode-specific setting unit ( It is configured to determine whether or not the distance X) calculated in S3 is within the permitted range.

  Further, in this configuration, the control circuit 40 that performs the processing of FIG. 17 corresponds to an example of a reading unit, and performs a reading process on a captured image captured by the imaging unit 23 according to the reading mode set by the mode switching unit. To function.

  As described above, according to this configuration, every time the mode switching condition is satisfied, it is possible to switch to the reading mode according to the condition. Each time the reading mode is switched, the information from the information code reader 1 to the information code is determined according to the permission range associated with the mode (the range specified by the mode-specific permission range information associated with the mode). It becomes possible to determine whether or not the distance is within the permitted range based on the standard according to the mode.

  In the representative example of the third embodiment described above, the distance permission range is determined for each use target (for each user or each user classification) in each mode. As shown in FIG. 27B, the permitted range may be determined for each mode. In this example, when the permission range is determined in the processes of S3 and S4, regardless of the object of use, the permission range α11 corresponding to mode 1 is selected when the reading apparatus 1 is in mode 1, and when the reading apparatus 1 is in mode 2. The permission range α21 corresponding to mode 2 is selected.

  Moreover, in the representative example of 3rd Embodiment mentioned above, although an example of mode switching was shown, it is not restricted to this example. For example, the mode 1 may be used when the apparatus main body 111 is attached to the attachment portion 160, and the mode 2 may be used when the apparatus main body 111 is used while being detached from the attachment portion 160. Specifically, for example, when a proximity sensor that detects the proximity of the attachment portion 160 is provided in the apparatus main body 111 and the proximity of the attachment section 160 is detected by the proximity sensor provided in the apparatus main body 111, for example. If mode 1 is set and the proximity sensor does not detect the approach of the mounting portion 160, mode 2 may be set.

  As another method of mode switching, for example, the power saving mode in which the restriction for suppressing the power consumption of the apparatus main body 111 is made may be set as mode 1, and the normal mode in which such a restriction is not made may be set as mode 2. Specifically, for example, there is a method of switching to mode 1 when the amount of charge of the battery is less than a predetermined threshold, and switching to mode 2 when the amount of charge of the battery is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold.

[Fourth Embodiment]
Next, a fourth embodiment will be described. The fourth embodiment includes all the configurations of the first embodiment, and further adds new features. Therefore, the added new feature will be described mainly, and detailed description of the same parts as those in the first embodiment will be omitted. Note that FIGS. 1 to 24 will be referred to as appropriate.

  In this configuration, instead of the permission range registration method as shown in FIG. 16, the permission range is registered by the method as shown in FIG. In this example, the method of FIG. 16, that is, the method of determining the distance permission range for each use target (for each user or each user classification) is further subdivided, and for each code type, for each use target (for each user). Or the permissible range of distance is defined for each user classification). For example, when the usage target is set to A, if the information code determined to have been successfully read in S2 is the information code C11 (code 1) of the first code type as shown in FIG. Used. Further, when the use target is A and the information code determined to have been successfully read in S2 is the second code type information code C12 (code 2) as shown in FIG. 28B, the permitted range α21 is used. . In addition, when the use target is A and the information code determined to have been successfully read in S2 is the third code type information code C2 (code 3) as shown in FIG. 28C, the permitted range α31 is used. . Alternatively, when the usage target is set to B, if the information code determined to have been successfully read in S2 is the information code C11 (code 1) of the first code type as shown in FIG. Used. Further, when the use target is B and the information code determined to have been successfully read in S2 is the information code C12 (code 2) of the second code type as shown in FIG. 28B, the permitted range α22 is used. . In this way, if the use target is determined and the code type of the information code that has been successfully read is specified, the permitted range can be specified by the registered information as shown in FIG.

  In this configuration, a memory 35 in which information as shown in FIG. 29 is stored corresponds to an example of a type-specific permission range registration unit, and a plurality of types of permission are defined in a form that defines a permission range corresponding to each type of information code. Range information is registered.

  The reading process is performed in the flow of FIG. 17 as in the first embodiment, and the processes from S1 to S3 are performed in the same manner as in the first embodiment. The method for specifying the use target is the same as that in the first embodiment. For example, the memory can be used by operating the operation switch 42 or inputting information by communication from an external device immediately before or after the start of the reading process in FIG. When the designation information designating any of the usage targets registered in 35 is input, the control circuit 40 grasps the usage target specified by the designation information. In the processes of S3 and S4, which will be described later, a determination process is performed by selecting a permission range associated with the use target.

  When the processes of S1 to S3 in FIG. 17 are performed in the same manner as in the first embodiment and the distance X to the information code is calculated in S3, an area in which information as shown in FIG. Referring to the range database), the permission range corresponding to the currently set usage target and the code type of the information code successfully read in S2 is read. For example, if the target to be used is set to A by the above-described designation information and the information code determined to have been successfully read in S2 is the information code C11 (code 1) shown in FIG. 28A, the information shown in FIG. From such registration information, the permission range α11 associated with the code 1 and the use target A is selected.

  The processing after S4 after reading the permission range from the memory 35 in S3 is the same as in the first embodiment, and the distance X calculated in S3 is the permission range read from the memory 35 (that is, the current range). In the first embodiment, it is determined whether or not it is within the permitted range) that is associated with the use target and registered in association with the type of information code that has been determined to be successfully read in S2. The same success process as in the first embodiment is performed (S6).

  In this configuration, the control circuit 40 corresponds to an example of a determination unit, and when any type of information code is imaged by the imaging unit 23, based on the type-specific permission range information corresponding to the type of image captured, It is configured to determine whether or not the distance from the information code reader 1 to the information code is within the permitted range.

  As described above, according to this configuration, it is possible to set a permission range (a range specified by type-specific permission range information associated with the information code type) for each type of information code. When the information code is imaged, the information code reading device follows the permission range associated with the captured type (the range specified by the type-specific permission range information associated with the type). It is possible to determine whether or not the distance to the information code is within the permitted range based on the standard according to the type. For example, since the code type shown in FIG. 28A has a large code size, there is a possibility that the code will not fit within the field of view unless it is read at a certain distance. For such codes, the permitted range can be set larger. In addition, the code types shown in FIG. 28B have fine bars and spaces, and therefore may not be decoded unless read close to some extent. For such codes, it is possible to set a smaller allowable range.

  In the representative example of the fourth embodiment described above, the distance permission range is determined for each use target (for each user or each user classification) in each code type, but it is not set for each use target. In addition, as shown in FIG. 29B, the permitted range may be determined for each type of code. In this example, when the permitted range is determined in the processes of S3 and S4, when the type of the information code read by the reading device 1 (information code determined to have been successfully read in S2) is code 1, regardless of the target of use. The permission range α11 corresponding to the code 1 is selected. When the code is 2, the permission range α21 corresponding to the code 2 is selected. When the code is 3, the permission range α31 corresponding to the code 3 is selected.

[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 each of the above embodiments, the control circuit 40 is illustrated as an example of the processing unit, and the configuration in which the code image of the information code is decoded as processing of the image of the information code C captured by the imaging unit 23 is illustrated. In any configuration of the embodiment, the processing of the image of the information code C imaged by the imaging unit 23 is not limited to this. For example, the image data of the information code C imaged by the imaging unit 23 is transmitted to an external apparatus (an external apparatus connected to the apparatus main body with a cable, an external apparatus not connected to the apparatus main body with a cable) (wired communication or wireless communication). (Transmission by communication or the like). In this case, the image data may be decoded on the external device side to which the image of the information code C 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. Alternatively, in any configuration of any of the embodiments, the processing of the image of the information code C imaged by the imaging unit 23 is performed, for example, by storing the image data of the information code C imaged by the imaging unit 23 in the memory 35. Accumulation processing may be performed.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, the body mounting unit configured to be hung on both ears is illustrated, but the body mounting unit may be configured to be hung on either ear.

  In the above embodiments, the configuration in which the attachment portion 160 is provided as a separate body from the case 112 has been illustrated, but the attachment portion may be provided integrally with the case.

  In each of the above embodiments, the configuration in which the attachment portion is hung on the user's human body is mainly exemplified by the configuration on the ear. However, for example, other configurations in which the attachment portion is hung from the neck of the user May be used. 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. For example, the body wearing part may be configured as a band member attached to the user's head. For example, the body wearing part may be configured as a band member having a structure such as a bee shape, a hair band shape, or a headband shape. In this configuration, since the apparatus main body is attached to the head, the movement of the face and the entire apparatus main body are interlocked, and the reading direction can be easily determined according to the movement of the user's face.

  In the above embodiment, the attachment portion having the body attachment portion that is configured to be hung or wound around the user's ear, finger, arm, head, etc. has been exemplified. , Gloves, clothes) or the like.

  In the above-described embodiment, the configuration in which the battery is provided in the case 112 is illustrated. However, the battery is provided inside the external device (for example, the external device according to the first embodiment) connected to the case 112 via a cable. It may be provided.

  In the above-described embodiment, the configuration in which the cable 102 is provided in the case 112 is illustrated, but a configuration in which such a cable 102 does not exist may be used.

  In the above embodiment, the mounting portion 160 provided with the right mounting portion 170 and the left mounting portion 180 has been illustrated. However, the mounting portion can be used in any configuration of the first embodiment or other embodiments having similar mounting portions. May be a configuration with only the right side mounting portion or a configuration with only the left side mounting portion (that is, a configuration in which the mounting portion to which the case is attached is provided only on one ear side). For example, the structure which abbreviate | omitted any mounting part from the structure of the attaching part 160 of 1st Embodiment may be sufficient.

  In the above embodiment, the example in which the apparatus main body 111 is mounted on the right mounting part 170 or the left mounting part 180 using the attractive force of the magnet has been described. However, the apparatus main body 111 is mounted on the right mounting part 170 or the left mounting part 180. On the other hand, it may be attached by an engagement structure using an engagement claw or the like. Alternatively, the apparatus main body 111 may be attached to the right side mounting part 170 or the left side mounting part 180 by using another detachable structure such as a hook-and-loop fastener.

  In any of the embodiments, an external device may be provided so as to be connected to the cable 102. The external device may be used on the waist as shown in FIG. You may use it in your pocket. Various functions of the external device may function as a supply source for supplying power to the device main body 111, and information from the device main body 111 (decoded data when the information code is decoded by the device main body 111) May function as a storage medium for storing. Alternatively, a control circuit such as a CPU may be mounted on the external device, and the code image captured by the imaging unit 23 may be decoded by the external device.

  In the above embodiment, the configuration assuming a plurality of code types is illustrated, but a configuration assuming only one code type may be used. In this case, only one piece of basic information associated with the assumed code type needs to be registered.

  In the above-described embodiment, the example in which the permission range is determined for each use target has been described. However, a configuration in which one permission range is used without setting the permission range for each use target may be used.

  In the above embodiment, an example in which the permission range is determined for each user has been described. However, the permission range may be determined for each type of user. For example, a male permission range may be determined for men, and a female permission range may be determined for women. In this case, the user's gender information may be input prior to the use of the reading apparatus 1, and a permission range corresponding to the input gender information may be used. You may make it define a permission range for every range of height. For example, the first permission range is 140 cm or more and less than 150 cm, the second permission range is 150 cm or more and less than 160 cm, the third permission range is 160 cm or more and less than 170 cm, the third permission range is 170 cm or more and less than 180 cm. In this case, the permission range may be determined such as the fourth permission range. In this case, the height information of the user may be input prior to use of the reading device 1, and a permission range corresponding to the input height information may be used.

  In the above-described embodiment, an example in which the registration unit, the individual permission range registration unit, the mode-specific permission range registration unit, and the type-specific permission range registration unit are provided in the apparatus main body 111 has been described. May be provided in an external device configured to be communicable with each other.

  In the above-described embodiment, the reading device 1 configured as a wearable terminal is illustrated, but may be configured as another mobile terminal that is not a wearable terminal. For example, the present invention may be applied to a gun-type portable terminal as shown in FIG. 30, and in this case, the pre-imaging process can be performed by a method as shown in FIG.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Portable information code reader 23 ... Imaging part 35 ... Memory (Registration part, individual permission range registration part, individual information setting part, mode-specific permission range registration part, mode-specific setting part, type-specific permission range registration part)
40... Control circuit (determination unit, output control unit, size detection unit, inclination detection unit, information acquisition unit, individual information setting unit, mode switching unit, reading unit, mode-specific setting unit, processing unit)
46. Sensor unit (size detection unit, distance sensor)
112 ... Case 160 ... Mounting part C ... Information code

Claims (11)

An information code reader capable of outputting a result of reading an information code,
An imaging unit capable of imaging the information code;
A determination unit that determines whether or not a distance from the information code reader to the information code is within a predetermined permission range;
The determination unit outputs a decoding result of the information code on the condition that the distance to the information code is determined to be within the permitted range, and the distance to the information code is within the permitted range by the determining unit. An output control unit that performs output control so as not to output the decoding result of the information code when it is determined that
An information code reading device comprising: A size detection unit that detects a size reflection value reflecting the size of the information code when the information code is imaged by the imaging unit;
The determination unit determines whether a distance from the information code reading device to the information code is within the permitted range based on the size reflection value detected by the size detection unit. The information code reading device according to claim 1. A registration unit in which a reference reflected value reflecting a reference size of the information code to be read is registered in advance;
The determination unit includes the information from the information code reading device to the information code based on the reference reflection value registered in the registration unit and the size reflection value of the information code detected by the size detection unit. 3. The information code reading apparatus according to claim 2, wherein a distance is calculated, and it is determined whether or not the calculated distance is within the permitted range.   A predetermined reference distance determined in advance, and a length in a predetermined direction within a visual field range in the virtual plane when the imaging unit images a virtual plane whose distance from the information code reader is the reference distance; Obtained from a captured image obtained by imaging one of the codes with the same size as the information code or the information code attached to the object whose distance from the information code reader is set to the reference distance 4. The value reflecting one or more measured values of the length in a predetermined code direction of any one of the codes is registered in the registration unit as the reference reflected value. 5. Information code reader. The information code has one or more predetermined reference directions defined in advance,
When the information code is imaged by the imaging unit, an inclination detection unit that detects an inclination of the information code in the reference direction in the captured image,
The size detection unit detects the size reflection value reflecting the length of the reference direction in the information code based on a detection result of the inclination of the reference direction by the inclination detection unit. The information code reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 4. A distance sensor for measuring a distance from the information code reader to an object arranged on the imaging side by the imaging unit;
The determination unit determines whether the distance from the information code reader to the information code is within the permitted range based on a measurement result of the distance to the object by the distance sensor. The information code reading device according to claim 1. An individual permission range registration unit in which a plurality of individual permission range information is registered in a form that defines the permission range for each user or for each user classification;
An information acquisition unit for acquiring information identifying a user or a classification of the user;
Based on the information acquired by the information acquisition unit, an individual information setting unit that sets which individual permission range information to use among the plurality of individual permission range information registered in the individual permission range registration unit When,
With
The determination unit determines whether a distance from the information code reading device to the information code is within the permitted range based on any of the individual permitted range information set as a use target by the individual information setting unit. The information code reader according to claim 1, wherein the information code reader is determined. A plurality of reading modes are determined in association with the corresponding mode switching conditions, and when any of the mode switching conditions is satisfied, the reading modes corresponding to the established mode switching conditions can be set. A mode switching unit;
A per-mode permissible range registration unit in which per-mode permissible range information is registered in a form that defines the permissible range corresponding to each of a plurality of the reading modes;
Based on the reading mode set by the mode switching unit, set which mode-specific permission range information is used among the plurality of mode-specific permission range information registered in the mode-specific permission range registration unit A mode-specific setting section,
With
The determination unit determines whether the distance from the information code reading device to the information code is within the permission range based on any of the mode-specific permission range information set as a use target by the mode setting unit. The information code reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the information code is determined. A plurality of types of information codes are defined as reading targets, and a type-by-type permission range registration unit in which a plurality of types of permission range information is registered in a form in which the permission ranges corresponding to the information codes of each type are defined. ,
When the information code of any type is imaged by the imaging unit, the determination unit determines whether the information code is read from the information code reading device based on the type-specific permission range information corresponding to the type of the imaged image. 9. The information code reader according to claim 1, wherein it is determined whether or not a distance up to is within the permitted range. 10. A processing unit that processes an image of the information code imaged by the imaging unit;
A case for holding the imaging unit;
An attachment part that is provided integrally with the case or as a separate body, and that attaches to the user an apparatus main body in which the imaging unit and the processing unit are held by the case;
The information code reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising: An information code reading method using an information code reading device,
A pre-imaging step of pre-imaging the information code or a code having the same size as the information code by the imaging unit of the information code reader in a state where the code is separated from the information code reader by a predetermined reference distance; ,
A calculation step of calculating in advance an actual measurement value of one or a plurality of predetermined code directions of any one of the codes from the captured image generated in the preliminary imaging step;
The reference distance, the length in a predetermined direction within the visual field range in the virtual plane when the imaging unit images the virtual plane whose distance from the information code reader is the reference distance, and calculated in the calculation step A registration step of registering in advance in a registration unit of the information code reading device as a reference reflection value that reflects the measured value that has been performed;
An imaging step of imaging the information code by the imaging unit using the information code reader configured through the registration step;
A determination step of determining by a determination unit of the information code reader whether or not a distance from the information code reader to the information code imaged in the imaging step is within a predetermined permitted range;
The determination unit outputs a decoding result of the information code on the condition that the distance to the information code is determined to be within the permitted range, and the distance to the information code is within the permitted range by the determining unit. An output control step of performing output control by the output control unit of the information code reader so as not to output the decoding result of the information code when it is determined that it is not,
A method for reading an information code, comprising:

Images