JP2020067800A - Printed matter, decoding method, decorder, and decoding system - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a print technology for making information difficult to be read by a person who does not know how to read.SOLUTION: A printed matter 1 of the present invention comprises a substrate 11 and one or more print layers 12 provided on the substrate 11. The one or more print layers 12 includes a plurality of patterns PT1 to PT3 being made of a same material and adjacent one another. Each of the plurality of patterns PT1 to PT3 is arranged in two directions, and is composed of a plurality of sub patterns having an equal shape one another. In the plurality of patterns PT1 to PT3, shapes of the plurality of sub patters included therein are different, and an area percentage for which the plurality of sub patterns accounts in a unit area is equal one another. A first alignment composed of one or more of the plurality of patterns PT1 to PT3 constitutes a first-dimensional or a second dimensional code, and a second alignment composed of remaining part of the plurality of patterns PT1 to PT3 constitutes a background of the first dimensional or the second dimensional code.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

  The present invention relates to a printed matter, a decoding method, a decoding device, and a decoding system.

  It may be desirable for printed matter to have the information recorded therein identifiable only when necessary.

  For example, Patent Document 1 describes that a hiding layer that can be scraped off by scratching is provided so that information recorded on a card is not easily identified. Patent Document 2 describes that a code pattern including data representing characteristics peculiar to a game character is printed on a card used in a card game device so as to be identifiable by infrared rays. Patent Document 3 describes that the brightness of the original image is partially increased or decreased to thereby embed the two-dimensional code in the original image. In Patent Document 4, a line-shaped concavo-convex structure that is parallel to the previous line and has a different pitch from the previous line is provided so as to partially overlap the line printed with the colored ink. It is described that the overlapping portion is used as a latent image.

JP-A-2002-36740 International Publication No. 2010/095379 JP, 2011-142607, A JP, 2006-111019, A

  It is an object of the present invention to provide a printing technique that makes it difficult for a person who does not know the reading method to read the information.

  According to a first aspect of the present invention, a substrate and one or more printing layers provided on the substrate are provided, and the one or more printing layers have a plurality of patterns made of the same material and adjacent to each other. Including, each of the plurality of patterns is arranged in two directions, is composed of a plurality of sub-patterns having the same shape, the plurality of patterns, the shape of the plurality of sub-patterns they include. The first arrays, which are different and have the same area ratio of the plurality of sub-patterns occupying a unit area, and which are one or more of the plurality of patterns, constitute a one-dimensional or two-dimensional code, and the remaining of the plurality of patterns are the same. The second array of is provided with a printed material that constitutes the background of the one-dimensional or two-dimensional code.

Note that "the area ratios of a plurality of sub-patterns occupying a unit area are equal to each other" means that the difference in the above-mentioned area ratios is sufficient to the extent that a plurality of patterns cannot be distinguished from each other when observed by the human eye. Means to be small. That is, when the area ratio is different between two or more patterns, the difference between the maximum value R _max of the area ratio and the minimum value R _min of the area ratio R _max −R _min, and the maximum value R _{max of the} area ratio. If the ratio (R _max −R _min ) / R _max is sufficiently small, for example, 0.1% or less, the patterns cannot be distinguished from each other by visual observation.

  Further, "the shape of the sub-pattern is different" means that one or more of the shape of the contour of the sub-pattern, the size of the sub-pattern, and the thickness of the line forming the sub-pattern is different. There is.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, the one-dimensional image is obtained based on the shapes of the plurality of sub-patterns from an image obtained by capturing an area corresponding to the plurality of patterns in the printed matter according to the first aspect. Alternatively, a decoding method including decoding the two-dimensional code is provided.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, a plurality of patterns having different image densities are generated from the images of the plurality of patterns obtained by photographing the printed matter according to the first aspect, and the plurality of patterns having different image densities are generated. And a decoding method including decoding the one-dimensional or two-dimensional code from the pattern.

  According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, based on the shapes of the plurality of sub-patterns, from the first image data obtained by imaging the regions corresponding to the plurality of patterns in the printed matter according to the first aspect, There is provided a decoding device including a processing unit that decodes the one-dimensional or two-dimensional code.

  According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the first image data including the information of the plurality of patterns obtained by photographing the printed matter according to the first aspect includes the second image data including the information of the plurality of patterns having different image densities. There is provided a decoding device including a processing unit that generates image data and decodes the one-dimensional or two-dimensional code from the second image data.

  According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the decoding device according to the fourth or fifth aspect, a reading unit for capturing the first image data by photographing the printed matter, the decoded one-dimensional or two-dimensional code, There is provided a decoding system including original information obtained by decoding a one-dimensional or two-dimensional code, and an output unit that outputs one or more pieces of information generated using the original information.

  According to the present invention, a printing technique in which it is difficult for a person who does not know the reading method to read the information is provided.

FIG. 1 is a plan view schematically showing a printed matter according to the first embodiment of the invention. The top view which expands and shows a part of printed matter of FIG. Sectional drawing along the III-III line of the structure shown in FIG. The top view which expands and shows the 1st pattern of the printed matter shown in FIG.1 and FIG.2. The top view which expands and shows the 1st sub-pattern which comprises the 1st pattern shown in FIG. The top view which expands and shows the 2nd pattern of the printed matter shown in FIG.1 and FIG.2. The top view which expands and shows the 2nd sub-pattern which comprises the 2nd pattern shown in FIG. The top view which expands and shows the 3rd pattern of the printed matter shown in FIG.1 and FIG.2. The top view which expands and shows the 3rd sub-pattern which comprises the 3rd pattern shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram schematically showing a decoding system according to an embodiment of the present invention. The flowchart which shows the decoding method which concerns on a modification. The figure which shows roughly an example of the method of adjusting resolution. The figure which shows roughly an example of the image of the 1st sub-pattern with reduced resolution. The figure which shows roughly an example of the image of the 2nd sub-pattern with reduced resolution. The figure which shows roughly an example of the image of the 3rd sub-pattern with reduced resolution. The figure which shows an example of the decoded two-dimensional code. The top view which shows the printed matter which concerns on a 1st comparative example roughly. Sectional drawing which followed the XVIII-XVIII line of the printed matter shown in FIG. The top view which shows the printed matter which concerns on a 2nd comparative example roughly. FIG. 20 is a sectional view taken along line XX-XX of the printed matter shown in FIG. 19. The top view which shows the printed matter which concerns on a 3rd comparative example roughly. FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XXII-XXII of the printed matter shown in FIG. 21. The top view which expands and shows a part of printed matter which concerns on 2nd Embodiment of this invention. The top view which expands and shows a part of printed matter which concerns on 3rd Embodiment of this invention. The top view which shows one modification of the 1st pattern roughly. The top view which shows one modification of a 2nd pattern roughly. The top view which shows the one modification of a 3rd pattern roughly.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. It should be noted that elements having similar or similar functions are designated by the same reference numerals, and overlapping description will be omitted.

First, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 1 is a plan view schematically showing a printed matter according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a plan view showing a part of the printed matter of FIG. 1 in an enlarged manner. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the structure shown in FIG. 2 taken along the line III-III.

  In the figure, the X direction is a direction parallel to the printing surface of the printed matter 1, the Y direction is a direction parallel to the printing surface of the printed matter 1 and perpendicular to the X direction, and the Z direction is the X direction. And the direction perpendicular to the Y direction. Further, in the plan view referred to in the description of the printed matter 1, the protective layer 13 described later is omitted.

  The printed matter 1 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 is a card. The printed matter may have a shape other than a card. The printed matter 1 can be used as, for example, an identification card, a play card, or securities. The printed matter 1 may be a label to be supported by another article. For example, the printed matter 1 may be an adhesive label. That is, the printed matter 1 may be used in a labeled article.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the printed matter 1 includes a base material 11, a printed layer 12, and a protective layer 13.

  The base material 11 is made of, for example, paper, plastic, or metal. The base material 11 may have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure. Here, the base material 11 has a thin layer shape, but the base material 11 may have another shape. The base material 11 may further include other elements such as an IC (integrated circuit) chip, an antenna, and a magnetic tape.

  The print layer 12 includes a first portion P1, a second portion P2, and a third portion P3, as shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the first portion P1 includes a first pattern PT1, a second pattern PT2 and a third pattern PT3. Here, the first portion P1 includes three types of patterns, but the first portion P1 may include two or more types of patterns. The first portion P1 has substantially the same thickness throughout.

  The first pattern PT1, the second pattern PT2, and the third pattern PT3 are made of the same material. That is, they are formed of the same ink. This ink may be an ink used for ordinary printing, such as a process ink, or a special ink such as an infrared absorbing ink and an infrared emitting ink. As the infrared absorbing ink, for example, an ink containing a near infrared absorbing agent such as a phthalocyanine compound and a cyanine compound can be used. As the infrared light emitting ink, for example, an ink containing an infrared light emitting phosphor that is excited by infrared light and emits infrared light having a longer wavelength than the excitation light can be used. The special ink may be a colored ink or an invisible ink, that is, a colorless and transparent ink.

  When observed with the naked eye, the first portion P1 appears as a uniform region, that is, a region having the same color throughout. A two-dimensional code is recorded as a latent image on the first portion P1. The latent image recorded in the first portion P1 may be a one-dimensional code. The first portion P1 will be described in detail later.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the second portion P2 includes a pattern corresponding to the character string “1234567890”. This pattern comprises key information for decrypting the information recorded in the first portion P1, for example, the first pattern PT1, the second pattern PT2, and the third pattern PT3, which form a first array, and It is a pattern corresponding to the key information for distinguishing between the two arrays. The pattern corresponding to the key information may be another character string, a one-dimensional or two-dimensional code, or may have another shape.

  The pattern included in the second portion P2 may be formed of a single ink or a plurality of types of ink. Further, the pattern included in the second portion P2 may be formed of the same ink as the ink forming the pattern of the first portion P1, and the ink forming the pattern of the first portion P1 is It may be formed of different inks.

  The second portion P2 may be provided on the same base as the first portion P1 or may be provided on a different base. The second portion P2 can be omitted.

  The third portion P3 includes a pattern corresponding to the character string "ABCDEFGHIJKLMN". This pattern may be another character string, a portrait, a drawing or a picture, or a combination thereof.

  The pattern included in the third portion P3 may include information associated with at least one of the information recorded in the first portion P1 and the information recorded in the second portion P2. Alternatively, the information included in this pattern may be unrelated to both the information recorded in the first portion P1 and the information recorded in the second portion P2. Alternatively, the pattern need not contain information, such as a mere pattern.

  The pattern included in the third portion P3 may be formed of a single ink or a plurality of types of ink. Further, the pattern included in the third portion P3 may be formed of the same ink as the ink forming the pattern of the first portion P1 or the second portion P2, and the first portion P1 or the second portion P2. It may be formed with an ink different from the ink forming the pattern.

  The third part P3 may be provided on the same base as the first part P1 or the second part P2, or may be provided on a different base. The third portion P3 can be omitted.

  The protective layer 13 covers the printed layer 12, as shown in FIG. The protective layer 13 protects the printed layer 12 from damage. The protective layer 13 may be provided so as to cover the entire main surface of the base material 11 on which the printed layer 12 is provided, or may be provided so as to cover only a part thereof.

  The protective layer 13 is, for example, a transparent layer. All or part of the protective layer 13 may not be transparent. For example, when the pattern included in the first portion P1 is formed of the infrared absorbing ink, the portion of the protective layer 13 that covers the first portion P1 is in the infrared region where the infrared absorbing ink absorbs. As long as it transmits light, it may block visible light. Further, when the pattern included in the first portion P1 is formed of the infrared light emitting ink, the portion of the protective layer 13 which covers the first portion P1 is light for exciting the infrared light emitting ink, for example, ultraviolet rays. Alternatively, it may block visible light as long as it transmits infrared light and transmits infrared light, in particular, luminescence of infrared light emitting ink.

  The thickness of the protective layer 13 is preferably 500 μm or less, more preferably 10 to 100 μm. The thin protective layer 13 may not adequately protect the printed layer 12 from damage. The thick protective layer 13 may increase the manufacturing cost of the printed material 1.

Next, the first portion P1 will be described in detail.
FIG. 4 is an enlarged plan view showing the first pattern of the printed matter shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 5 is an enlarged plan view showing a first sub-pattern forming the first pattern shown in FIG. FIG. 6 is an enlarged plan view showing a second pattern of the printed matter shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 7 is an enlarged plan view showing a second sub-pattern forming the second pattern shown in FIG. FIG. 8 is an enlarged plan view showing a third pattern of the printed matter shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 9 is an enlarged plan view showing a third sub-pattern forming the third pattern shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the first pattern PT1, the second pattern PT2, and the third pattern PT3 are adjacent to each other. The first array composed of the first pattern PT1 constitutes a two-dimensional code. The second array of the second pattern PT2 and the third pattern PT3 constitutes the background of the two-dimensional code.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the first pattern PT1 is composed of a plurality of first sub patterns SPT1. The first sub-pattern SPT1 is arranged in two directions. Here, the first sub-pattern SPT1 is arranged in the X-direction and the Y-direction at the same cycle. The first sub-pattern SPT1 has an annular shape as shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the second pattern PT2 is composed of a plurality of second sub patterns SPT2. The second sub-pattern SPT2 is arranged in two directions. Here, the second sub-patterns SPT2 are arranged at the same cycle in the X direction and the Y direction.

  As is clear from the comparison between FIG. 7 and FIG. 5, the shape of the second sub-pattern SPT2 is different from that of the first sub-pattern SPT1. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 7, the second sub-pattern SPT2 has a structure in which two annular rings whose outer diameter is smaller than the inner diameter of the other annular ring are concentrically arranged. There is. As is clear from the comparison between FIG. 5 and FIG. 7, the curve forming the smaller diameter ring of the two rings included in the second sub-pattern SPT2 is included in the first sub-pattern SPT1. The thickness is almost the same as the curve that makes up the circular ring. Further, the curve forming the larger ring of the two circles included in the second sub-pattern SPT2 is larger than the curve forming the circle included in the first sub-pattern SPT1. It is thin, and is thinner than the curve forming the circular ring having the smaller diameter of the two circular rings included in the second sub-pattern SPT2. The two annular rings included in the second sub-pattern SPT2 are separated from each other.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the third pattern PT3 is composed of a plurality of third sub patterns SPT3. The third sub-pattern SPT3 is arranged in two directions. Here, the third sub-pattern SPT3 is arranged at the same cycle in the X direction and the Y direction.

  As is clear from comparison between FIG. 9 and FIGS. 5 and 7, the third sub-pattern SPT3 has a different shape from the first sub-pattern SPT1 and the second sub-pattern SPT2. Specifically, in the third sub-pattern SPT3, as shown in FIG. 9, the outer diameter of one ring is smaller than the inner diameter of the other one ring, and the inner diameter of the other one ring is It has a structure in which three circular rings, which are larger than the outer diameter of the other circular ring, are concentrically arranged. As is clear from the comparison between FIG. 5 and FIG. 9, the curves forming each ring included in the third sub-pattern SPT3 are the curves forming the ring included in the first sub-pattern SPT1. Thinner than. The three rings included in the third sub-pattern SPT3 are separated from each other.

  The first pattern PT1, the second pattern PT2, and the third pattern PT3 have the same area ratio of the sub patterns in the unit region. That is, in the first pattern PT1, the second pattern PT2, and the third pattern PT3, the shape of the sub patterns and the arrangement of the sub patterns are adjusted so that the area ratios of the sub patterns in the unit region are equal to each other. . Here, as an example, it is assumed that the first sub-pattern SPT1, the second sub-pattern SPT2, and the third sub-pattern SPT3 have the same area and the arrangement cycles thereof are also the same.

  Further, the first sub-pattern SPT1, the second sub-pattern SPT2, and the third sub-pattern SPT3 are so small that they cannot be distinguished from each other when observed with the naked eye. The maximum dimension of each of the sub-patterns is preferably in the range of 0.5 to 30 mm, more preferably 1 to 10 mm. Here, the "maximum dimension" means the maximum value of the dimension when the sub pattern is observed from the Z direction.

  The thickness of the line forming the sub-pattern is preferably in the range of 50 to 1,000 μm, and more preferably in the range of 100 to 500 μm. Fine lines are difficult to print. On the other hand, thickening a line with a small sub-pattern may collapse the gap between the lines.

  When one sub-pattern is composed of a plurality of portions spaced apart from each other, the distance between the portions is preferably 30 μm or more, and more preferably 50 μm or more. If this distance is short, the above parts may be connected. Also, if this distance is short, there is a possibility that these parts cannot be distinguished from each other in image analysis. This distance is, for example, 1000 μm or less.

  The sub-patterns are preferably arranged with a density of 0.85 to 50 lpi (lines per inch), more preferably 2.5 to 25 lpi. The unit “lpi” is the number of sub patterns arranged in a length of 2.54 cm. When this density is low, it may be difficult to accurately reproduce the shape of the pattern in image analysis. If the density is high, the distance between the sub-patterns will be short and it may be difficult to distinguish them from each other in image analysis.

Next, the decoding system will be described.
FIG. 10 is a block diagram schematically showing a decoding system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The decoding system 2 shown in FIG. 10 includes a decoding device 21, a reading unit 22, and an output unit 23.
The decoding device 21 includes a processing unit 211 and a storage unit 212.

  The processing unit 211 includes a central processing unit (CPU). The reading unit 22 and the output unit 23 are connected to the processing unit 211.

  The processing unit 211, for example, decodes the two-dimensional code from the first image data based on the shape of the sub pattern. Here, the first image data is image data obtained by photographing the printed matter 1 and including information on the first pattern PT1, the second pattern PT2, and the third pattern PT3.

  Alternatively, the processing unit 211 generates the second image data from the first image data and decodes the two-dimensional code from the second image data. Here, the second image data is image data including information of a plurality of patterns having different image densities.

  The processing unit 211 further decodes the original information from this two-dimensional code. The processing unit 211 may generate other information from this original information. The processing unit 211 outputs to the output unit 23 one or more of the decoded two-dimensional code, the original information obtained by decoding the two-dimensional code, and the information generated using this original information. The details of the processing executed by the processing unit 211 will be described later.

  The storage unit 212 is connected to the processing unit 211. The storage unit 212 includes a non-volatile memory that stores a program read by the processing unit 211, data supplied from the processing unit 211, and the like.

The reading unit 22 includes an illumination device and an image pickup device.
The illuminating device illuminates an area corresponding to the first portion P1 of the printed material 1. The illuminating device emits visible light when the ink forming the pattern of the first portion P1 is a process ink. The illuminating device emits ultraviolet rays or infrared rays when the ink forming the pattern of the first portion P1 is infrared light emitting ink. The illuminating device emits infrared rays when the ink forming the pattern of the first portion P1 is infrared absorbing ink. When outdoor light or indoor light can be used as the illumination light, the illumination device can be omitted.

  The imaging device images the area corresponding to the first portion P1 of the printed matter 1. The imaging device is a digital camera that captures an image displayed by light in the visible range when the ink forming the pattern of the first portion P1 is process ink. The imaging device is a digital camera that captures an image displayed by light in the infrared region when the ink forming the pattern of the first portion P1 is an infrared light emitting ink or an infrared absorbing ink.

  The reading unit 22 may further include a moving mechanism that moves the printed material 1 relative to the illumination device and the imaging device, for example, an XY table. The imaging device may acquire the image of the entire region corresponding to the first portion P1 of the printed matter 1 by one-time imaging, or may acquire the image by a plurality of times of imaging. The moving mechanism can be used in the latter case.

  The reading unit 22 outputs, to the processing unit 211, the first image data acquired by the imaging device imaging the region corresponding to the first portion P1 of the printed material 1. The reading unit 22 may be configured to capture an image of a region corresponding to the second portion P2 of the printed matter 1 and further output the image data acquired thereby to the processing unit 211.

  The output unit 23 converts the information output by the processing unit 211 into a form that can be perceived by humans, for example, an image, sound, vibration, light, or a combination thereof, and outputs the information. The output unit 23 is, for example, a display, a buzzer, a vibrator, a lamp, or a combination thereof.

Next, a decoding method using this decoding system 2 will be described.
In this decoding method, first, the imaging device images the region corresponding to the first portion P1 of the printed matter 1 while the illumination device illuminates the region corresponding to the first portion P1 of the printed matter 1. In this way, the reading unit 22 acquires the first image data. The reading unit 22 outputs the first image data to the processing unit 211. Further, the reading unit 22 images the area corresponding to the second portion P2 of the printed matter 1, and outputs the image data acquired by this to the processing unit 211.

  The processing unit 211 decrypts the key information from the image data acquired by capturing the area corresponding to the second portion P2 and the information stored in the storage unit 212. The key information is, for example, that the array of patterns including the first sub-pattern SPT1 is the first array that constitutes the two-dimensional code, and that the pattern including the second sub-pattern SPT2 and the pattern including the third sub-pattern SPT3. Contains the information indicating at least one of the fact that the array is the second array that constitutes the background of the two-dimensional code.

  Further, the processing unit 211 decodes the two-dimensional code from the first image data based on the difference in shape between the first sub-pattern SPT1, the second sub-pattern SPT2, and the third sub-pattern SPT3. Specifically, the processing unit 211 performs pattern matching using data regarding the shapes of the first sub-pattern SPT1, the second sub-pattern SPT2, and the third sub-pattern SPT3 stored in the storage unit 212, and then performs the first matching. The position information of the first sub-pattern SPT1, the second sub-pattern SPT2 and the third sub-pattern SPT3 is acquired from the image data. Next, the processing unit 211 obtains the shapes and positions of the first pattern PT1, the second pattern PT2, and the third pattern PT3 from the position information, and uses the key information to form the first array that forms the two-dimensional code. And information about the second array forming the background of the two-dimensional code. In this way, the processing unit 211 decodes the two-dimensional code from the first image data.

  After that, the processing unit 211 decodes the original information from the two-dimensional code. The processing unit 211 may generate other information from this original information in some cases. The processing unit 211 outputs to the output unit 23 one or more of the decoded two-dimensional code, the original information obtained by decoding the two-dimensional code, and the information generated using this original information.

  The output unit 23 converts the information output by the processing unit 211 into a form that can be perceived by humans, for example, an image, sound, vibration, light, or a combination thereof, and outputs the information.

Next, a modified example of the decoding method using this decoding system 2 will be described.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a decoding method according to the modified example. FIG. 12 is a diagram schematically showing an example of a method of adjusting the resolution. FIG. 13 is a diagram schematically showing an example of the image of the first sub-pattern with the reduced resolution. FIG. 14 is a diagram schematically showing an example of an image of the second sub-pattern having a reduced resolution. FIG. 15 is a diagram schematically showing an example of an image of the third sub-pattern with reduced resolution.

  In this decoding method, first, the imaging device images the region corresponding to the first portion P1 of the printed matter 1 while the illumination device illuminates the region corresponding to the first portion P1 of the printed matter 1. In this way, the reading unit 22 acquires the first image data (step S1). The reading unit 22 outputs the first image data to the processing unit 211. Further, the reading unit 22 images the area corresponding to the second portion P2 of the printed matter 1, and outputs the image data acquired by this to the processing unit 211.

  The processing unit 211 decrypts the key information from the image data acquired by capturing the area corresponding to the second portion P2 and the information stored in the storage unit 212. The key information includes, for example, the resolution of the second image data, the threshold value of the brightness used when adjusting the resolution, and the information about the relationship between the image density and the first and second arrays. Alternatively, the storage unit 212 stores a plurality of options for each of the resolution of the second image data, the threshold value of lightness used when adjusting the resolution, and the relationship between the image density and the first and second arrays. If so, the key information includes information indicating which one should be selected.

  Next, the processing unit 211 adjusts the resolution of the first image data (step S2). For example, when the first image data is high-resolution image data, second image data having a lower resolution is generated from the first image data based on the information or key information stored in the storage unit 212.

  When the first image data is high-resolution image data, the area corresponding to the first pattern PT1, the area corresponding to the second pattern PT2, and the area corresponding to the third pattern PT3 have the same image density. Therefore, the regions cannot be distinguished based on image density.

  When the resolution is lowered, the area corresponding to the first pattern PT1 and the area corresponding to the second pattern PT2 are caused due to the difference in shape between the first sub-pattern SPT1, the second sub-pattern SPT2 and the third sub-pattern SPT3. And a difference in image density occurs in the area corresponding to the third pattern PT3.

  In FIG. 12, a high resolution image I1 of the first sub-pattern SPT1 is drawn. When the resolution of the high resolution image I1 is reduced so that one pixel corresponds to one square of the grid GR, a low resolution image I1 'shown in FIG. 13 is obtained.

  In addition, here, when the ratio of the bright pixels to all the pixels located in a certain grid of the grid GR exceeds 50%, the pixel of the low resolution image I1 'corresponding to this grid is set as the bright pixel. If the ratio of bright pixels to all pixels located in a certain grid GR is 50% or less, the pixels of the low resolution image I1 'corresponding to this grid are dark pixels.

  When the same process is performed on the high resolution image of the second sub-pattern SPT2, the low resolution image I2 'shown in FIG. 14 is obtained. Furthermore, when the same process is performed on the high resolution image of the third sub-pattern SPT3, a low resolution image I3 'shown in FIG. 15 is obtained.

  In the above-described example, the first sub-pattern SPT1, the second sub-pattern SPT2, and the third sub-pattern SPT3 have the same area, and their arrangement periods are also the same. On the other hand, the areas of the low resolution image I1 ', the low resolution image I2' and the low resolution image I3 'are different. Therefore, by reducing the resolution of the first image data, the difference in image density between the region corresponding to the first pattern PT1, the region corresponding to the second pattern PT2, and the region corresponding to the third pattern PT3 is reduced. Occurs. In this way, the processing unit 211 generates a plurality of patterns having different image densities from the image data whose resolution has been adjusted (step S3). When the resolution of the first image data is low, this resolution adjustment can be omitted.

  Next, the processing unit 211 uses the key information to decode the two-dimensional code from a plurality of patterns having different image densities (step S4). For the decoding of the two-dimensional code, for example, pattern matching is used.

  After that, the processing unit 211 decodes the original information from the two-dimensional code (step S5). The processing unit 211 may generate other information from this original information in some cases. The processing unit 211 outputs to the output unit 23 one or more of the decoded two-dimensional code, the original information obtained by decoding the two-dimensional code, and the information generated using this original information (step). S6).

  The output unit 23 converts the information output by the processing unit 211 into a form that can be perceived by humans, for example, an image, sound, vibration, light, or a combination thereof, and outputs the information.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of the decoded two-dimensional code.
According to the decoding method described above, for example, the two-dimensional code CD shown in FIG. 16 can be obtained.

  The information recorded on the first portion P1 of the printed matter 1 described above is difficult to read by a person who does not know the reading method. This will be described below.

  FIG. 17 is a plan view schematically showing a printed matter according to the first comparative example. FIG. 18 is a sectional view taken along line XVIII-XVIII of the printed matter shown in FIG.

  The printed matter 1A shown in FIGS. 17 and 18 includes a base material 11 and a printed layer 12A provided thereon. The print layer 12A constitutes a two-dimensional code.

  When the printed layer 12A is formed of the process ink, the fact that the two-dimensional code is recorded on the printed matter 1A is easily perceived by visual observation. Even when the printed layer 12A is formed of invisible ink, the fact that the two-dimensional code is recorded on the printed material 1A can be easily perceived from the unevenness of the surface.

  FIG. 19 is a plan view schematically showing a printed matter according to the second comparative example. 20 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XX-XX of the printed matter shown in FIG.

  The printed material 1B shown in FIGS. 19 and 20 includes a base material 11, a printed layer 12B, and a protective layer 13. The printed layer 12B is provided on the base material 11 and constitutes a two-dimensional code. The protective layer 13 is provided on the printed layer 12B. The protective layer 13 covers the entire surface of the base material 11 on which the printed layer 12B is provided.

  When the printed layer 12B is formed of the process ink, the protective layer 13 needs to be transparent. Therefore, in this case, the fact that the two-dimensional code is recorded on the printed matter 1B is easily perceived by visual observation. Further, the surface of the protective layer 13 may have irregularities corresponding to the pattern of the printed layer 12B. Therefore, even if the print layer 12B is formed of an invisible ink or the print layer 12B is formed of an infrared light emitting ink or an infrared absorbing ink and a protective layer 13 that blocks visible light is used, a printed matter is obtained. The fact that the two-dimensional code is recorded in 1B can be perceived from the unevenness of the surface. In order to obtain the protective layer 13 having no unevenness on the surface, it is necessary to form the thick protective layer 13 having a thickness of, for example, 20 μm or more by performing screen printing, offset printing or the like a plurality of times.

  FIG. 21 is a plan view schematically showing a printed matter according to the third comparative example. 22 is a sectional view taken along line XXII-XXII of the printed matter shown in FIG.

  The printed matter 1C shown in FIGS. 21 and 22 includes a base material 11 and a printed layer 12C provided thereon. The printed layer 12C includes a first printed layer 12C1 and a second printed layer 12C2. The first printed layer 12C1 constitutes a two-dimensional code. The second printed layer 12C2 is made of an ink different from the ink forming the first printed layer 12C1. The second printed layer 12C2 constitutes the background of the above two-dimensional code.

  When the first printing layer 12C1 and the second printing layer 12C2 are formed of the process ink, the high contrast ratio and the easiness to be perceived by observing with the naked eye are in a trade-off relationship.

  When one of the first printing layer 12C1 and the second printing layer 12C2 is formed with a special ink and the other is formed with a process ink of the same color as the previous special ink, a two-dimensional code is recorded on the printed matter 1C. This is considered to be difficult to perceive with the naked eye. Further, in this case, if the thickness of the first printing layer 12C1 and the thickness of the second printing layer 12C2 are matched, it is possible to prevent the surface of the printing layer 12C from having irregularities corresponding to the pattern of the first printing layer 12C1. It is thought to be possible.

  However, even in this case, when the reflected light from the printed layer 12C is observed, the two-dimensional code is recorded on the printed material 1C due to the difference in gloss between the first printed layer 12C1 and the second printed layer 12C2. , Can be easily perceived by visual observation. In addition, if the thickness of the first printed layer 12C1 and the thickness of the second printed layer 12C2 are not completely matched, the two-dimensional code is recorded on the printed material 1C due to the difference in the thickness. Can be easily perceived by. Further, it is difficult to form the first printed layer 12C1 and the second printed layer 12C2 so that they do not partially overlap with each other and no gap is formed between them. When the first printing layer 12C1 and the second printing layer 12C2 partially overlap with each other or form a gap between them, the printing layer 12C is provided with a ridge-shaped protrusion or groove along the contour of the two-dimensional code pattern. Will occur. Therefore, the fact that the two-dimensional code is recorded on the printed matter 1C can be easily perceived by visual observation.

  On the other hand, in the printed matter 1 described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 9, one or more patterns corresponding to the two-dimensional code and one or more patterns corresponding to the background are provided, and a unit is provided between the patterns. The area ratios of the sub patterns occupying the regions are made equal to each other. And the same material is used for those patterns. Therefore, when observed with the naked eye, the region provided with the pattern is seen as a region having the same color throughout.

In addition, the above-described procedure is necessary for decoding the two-dimensional code. Therefore, it is difficult for someone who does not know this procedure to decrypt the information.
Therefore, it is difficult for a person who does not know the reading method to read the information recorded in the first portion P1 of the printed matter 1 described above.

  In the printed matter 1, the first array forming the two-dimensional code is composed of the first pattern PT1, and the second array forming the background of the two-dimensional code is composed of the second pattern PT2 and the third pattern PT3. That is, the second array forming the background of the two-dimensional code is composed of a plurality of patterns. Therefore, even if there is a difference in brightness between patterns in an image obtained by a digital camera or a copy obtained by copying with a copying machine, a plurality of patterns corresponding to the background of the two-dimensional code are Impairs the perception of dimension codes.

  Therefore, even in this respect, it is difficult for a person who does not know the reading method to read the information recorded in the first portion P1 of the printed matter 1 described above.

Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 23 is an enlarged plan view showing a part of the printed matter according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

  The printed matter 1 shown in FIG. 23 is the same as the printed matter 1 described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 9 except the following points. That is, in the printed matter 1 shown in FIG. 23, the first array forming the two-dimensional code is composed of the first pattern PT1 and the second pattern PT2, and the second array forming the background of the two-dimensional code is the third pattern PT3. Consists of.

  The printed matter 1 has the same effects as the printed matter 1 described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 9.

  In the printed matter 1, the first array forming the two-dimensional code is composed of the first pattern PT1 and the second pattern PT2, and the second array forming the background of the two-dimensional code is composed of the third pattern PT3. That is, the first array forming the two-dimensional code is composed of a plurality of patterns. Therefore, in the image obtained by the digital camera or the copy obtained by copying with the copying machine, the two-dimensional code is difficult to be perceived even if the brightness is different between the patterns.

  Therefore, even in this respect, it is difficult for a person who does not know the reading method to read the information recorded in the first portion P1 of the printed matter 1 described above.

Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 24 is an enlarged plan view showing a part of the printed matter according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

  The printed matter 1 shown in FIG. 24 is the same as the printed matter 1 described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 9 except the following points. That is, in the printed matter 1 shown in FIG. 24, the first array forming the two-dimensional code is composed of the first pattern PT1 and the second pattern PT2, and the second array forming the background of the two-dimensional code is the third pattern. It consists of PT3 and a fourth pattern PT4.

  The fourth pattern PT4 is composed of a plurality of fourth sub patterns (not shown). The shape of the fourth sub pattern is different from that of the first sub pattern SPT1, the second sub pattern SPT2, and the third sub pattern SPT3. The fourth sub-patterns are arranged in two directions. Here, the fourth sub-patterns are arranged at the same cycle in the X direction and the Y direction.

  The fourth pattern PT4 is made of the same material as the first pattern PT1, the second pattern PT2, and the third pattern PT3. The fourth pattern PT4 has the same area ratio of the sub patterns occupying the unit region as the first pattern PT1, the second pattern PT2 and the third pattern PT3.

  The printed matter 1 has the same effects as the printed matter 1 described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 9.

  In this printed matter 1, the first array forming the two-dimensional code is composed of the first pattern PT1 and the second pattern PT2, and the second array forming the background of the two-dimensional code is the third pattern PT3. 4 patterns PT4. That is, the first array forming the two-dimensional code has a plurality of patterns, and the second array forming the background of the two-dimensional code also has a plurality of patterns. Therefore, in an image obtained by a digital camera or a copy obtained by copying with a copying machine, the two-dimensional code is extremely difficult to be perceived even if the brightness differs between the patterns.

  Therefore, even in this respect, it is difficult for a person who does not know the reading method to read the information recorded in the first portion P1 of the printed matter 1 described above.

Various structures can be adopted for the sub-pattern.
FIG. 25 is a plan view schematically showing a modification of the first pattern. FIG. 26 is a plan view schematically showing a modification of the second pattern. FIG. 27 is a plan view schematically showing a modification of the third pattern.

  In the first pattern PT1 shown in FIG. 25, the first sub-pattern SPT1 has a line segment shape extending in the Y direction. These first sub patterns SPT1 are arranged in the X direction and the Y direction, and the first sub patterns SPT1 adjacent in the Y direction are in contact with each other. As a result, the first sub-pattern SPT1 forms a stripe-shaped array.

  In the second pattern PT2 shown in FIG. 26, the second sub-pattern SPT2 has a circular shape. These second sub-patterns SPT2 are arranged at the same cycle in the X direction and the Y direction. The second sub patterns SPT2 are separated from each other and form a polka dot pattern array.

  In the third pattern PT3 shown in FIG. 27, the third sub-pattern SPT3 has an “X” shape. That is, the third sub-pattern SPT3 has a shape in which two line segments are orthogonal to each other. Each of the third sub-patterns SPT3 is oriented such that one line segment forming the third sub-pattern SPT3 is parallel to the X direction and the other line segment is parallel to the Y direction.

  These third sub-patterns SPT3 are arranged in the X direction and the Y direction. The third sub patterns SPT3 adjacent in the X direction are in contact with each other, and the third sub patterns SPT3 adjacent in the Y direction are also in contact with each other. As a result, the third sub-pattern SPT3 forms a square lattice array.

As described above, various structures can be adopted for the sub-pattern.
Each sub-pattern is preferably circular as shown in FIG. 26 or has concentric circular contours as shown in FIGS. 5, 7 and 9.

  Usually, the sub-patterns project with respect to the surface of the substrate. Therefore, for example, when the first pattern PT1 shown in FIG. 25 is formed from the process ink, when the printed material 1 is tilted around the axis parallel to the X direction and when the printed matter 1 is tilted about the axis parallel to the Y direction. There is a difference in lightness when the printed matter 1 is tilted around. Further, the third pattern PT3 shown in FIG. 27, when it is formed from the process ink, is perpendicular to the Z direction when the print 1 is tilted around an axis parallel to the X direction, and is perpendicular to the X direction. There is a difference in lightness when the print 1 is tilted about an axis that forms an angle of 45 °. As a result, when observed with the naked eye, one of the first pattern PT1, the second pattern PT2, and the third pattern PT3 may be distinguishable from the remaining patterns.

If each sub-pattern is circular or has concentric circular contours, the above-mentioned difference in brightness does not occur. Therefore, if this structure is adopted, it is possible to make it more difficult for someone who does not know the reading method to read the information.
In the above embodiment, the pattern forming the two-dimensional code has a structure in which cells having a substantially square shape are arranged in the X direction and the Y direction. Can also be configured with a pattern having a structure arranged in another direction. For example, the two-dimensional code may be configured with a pattern having a structure in which cells are arranged concentrically. In this case, the areas of the cells do not have to be uniform.
Further, in the above embodiment, the two directions in which the sub-patterns are arranged are linear directions, but these directions are not limited to linear directions. For example, one of the two directions in which the sub-patterns are arranged may be a curved direction such as a circular arc, and the other may be a straight direction that intersects with the previous curve.

<Example>
The printed matter 1 described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 9 was manufactured.
Specifically, coated paper was used as the base material 11. The first portion P1 was formed using infrared light emitting ink. As the infrared luminescent ink, an ultraviolet curable offset printing ink containing an infrared luminescent phosphor that is excited by irradiation with infrared light and emits infrared light having a wavelength longer than the excitation light was used. The protective layer 13 was formed using process ink. As this process ink, modified UV161 concrete white, which is a white ink manufactured by T & K TOKA, was used. The second portion P2 and the third portion P3 are omitted.

  The two-dimensional code recorded on the printed matter 1 was decoded using the decoding system 2 described with reference to FIG. Here, the above-mentioned information about the key information is stored in the storage unit 212. As a result, the two-dimensional code could be decoded.

  In addition, this printed matter 1 was visually observed. As a result, the presence of the two-dimensional code could not be confirmed either when the printed matter 1 was observed with the naked eye from the front or when it was observed with the naked eye from an oblique direction.

<Comparative example>
The printed matter 1 described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 9 was manufactured.
Specifically, the same coated paper as that used in the examples was used as the base material 11. The first printed layer 12C1 was formed using the same infrared light emitting ink as that used in the examples. The second printed layer 12C2 was formed by using an ink having the same composition as the infrared ink except that the infrared emitting phosphor was not included and a pigment was added to make the color almost the same as the infrared ink.

  This printed matter 1 was irradiated with infrared rays as excitation light, and this was photographed with an infrared camera. As a result, the two-dimensional code could be confirmed in the obtained image.

  In addition, this printed matter 1 was visually observed. As a result, when the printed matter 1 was visually observed from the front, the presence of the two-dimensional code could not be confirmed. However, when this printed matter 1 was observed with the naked eye from an oblique direction, the presence of the two-dimensional code could be confirmed from the difference in gloss between the first printing layer 12C1 and the second printing layer 12C2.

  1 ... Printed matter 1, 1A ... Printed matter, 1B ... Printed matter, 1C ... Printed matter, 2 ... Decoding system, 11 ... Base material, 12 ... Printed layer, 12A ... Printed layer, 12B ... Printed layer, 12C ... Printed layer, 12C1 ... 1 printing layer, 12C2 ... 2nd printing layer, 13 ... Protecting layer, 21 ... Decoding device, 22 ... Reading part, 23 ... Output part, 211 ... Processing part, 212 ... Storage part, CD ... Two-dimensional code, GR ... Grid , I1 ... High resolution image, I1 '... Low resolution image, I2' ... Low resolution image, I3 '... Low resolution image, P1 ... First portion, P2 ... Second portion, P3 ... Third portion, PT1 ... First Pattern, PT2 ... second pattern, PT3 ... third pattern, SPT1 ... first sub-pattern, SPT2 ... second sub-pattern, SPT3 ... third sub-pattern.

Claims (15)

A substrate, and one or more printing layers provided on the substrate,
The one or more printing layers include a plurality of patterns made of the same material and adjacent to each other;
Each of the plurality of patterns is arranged in two directions, and is composed of a plurality of sub-patterns having the same shape,
The plurality of patterns are different in the shape of the plurality of sub-patterns they include, the area ratio of the plurality of sub-patterns occupying the unit region are equal to each other,
A first array of one or more of the plurality of patterns constitutes a one-dimensional or two-dimensional code, and a second array of the rest of the plurality of patterns constitutes a background of the one-dimensional or two-dimensional code. .   The printed matter according to claim 1, wherein in each of the plurality of patterns, each of the plurality of sub-patterns has a circular shape or a concentric circular contour.   The printed material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first array includes two or more of the plurality of patterns.   The printed matter according to claim 1, wherein the second array includes two or more of the plurality of patterns.   The printed matter according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of patterns are made of invisible ink.   The printed matter according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the plurality of patterns are made of infrared absorbing ink or infrared emitting ink.   The printed material according to claim 1, further comprising a protective layer that covers the plurality of patterns.   The printed matter according to claim 7, wherein the protective layer blocks visible light.   The printed matter according to claim 1, wherein in each of the plurality of patterns, each of the plurality of sub-patterns has a maximum dimension within a range of 0.5 to 30 mm.   The one or more print layers further include a pattern corresponding to key information for distinguishing the plurality of patterns into those forming the first array and those forming the second array. The printed matter according to any one of 1 to 9.   From the image obtained by imaging the areas corresponding to the plurality of patterns of the printed matter according to any one of claims 1 to 10, based on the shapes of the plurality of sub-patterns, the one-dimensional or A decoding method including decoding a two-dimensional code. Generating a plurality of patterns having different image densities from the images of the plurality of patterns obtained by photographing the printed matter according to any one of claims 1 to 10;
Decoding the one-dimensional or two-dimensional code from the plurality of patterns having different image densities.   The first image data obtained by imaging the regions corresponding to the plurality of patterns in the printed matter according to any one of claims 1 to 10 based on the shapes of the plurality of sub-patterns. A decoding device including a processing unit that decodes a one-dimensional or two-dimensional code.   A second image including information of a plurality of patterns having different image densities from first image data including information of the plurality of patterns obtained by photographing the printed matter according to claim 1. A decoding device comprising a processing unit that generates data and decodes the one-dimensional or two-dimensional code from the second image data. A decoding device according to claim 13 or 14,
A reading unit that captures the first image data by photographing the printed matter;
The apparatus is provided with the decoded one-dimensional or two-dimensional code, original information obtained by decoding the one-dimensional or two-dimensional code, and an output unit that outputs one or more of information generated using the original information. Decryption system.