JP4251867B2 - Two-dimensional code creation device and method for controlling two-dimensional code creation device - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a two-dimensional code creation device and a method for controlling the two-dimensional code creation device, and is suitable for reading by an image information reading device and a barcode reading device in a handwritten information input device for inputting handwritten information to a computer. The present invention relates to a two-dimensional code generation device for printing a dimensional code.
[0002]
[Prior art]
In recent years, the digitization of business has progressed, and the number of distributed electronic documents has increased. On the other hand, since the quality of displays such as CRT and LCD is still inferior to printing on paper, there are many opportunities to print electronically created documents on paper as paper documents. In order to effectively use the handwriting work performed on these paper documents, a means for digitizing handwritten writing information is required. However, since the handwriting input device currently used has a low function, the usability is not so good.
[0003]
For example, there is a device called a tablet or digitizer, which performs handwritten input to a computer using a plate-shaped sensor and a pen-type device. However, since these devices simply acquire the added coordinate information, there is a problem in reflecting the handwriting operation on the paper document in the electronic document. For example, when writing on a paper on which an electronic document is printed, it is desirable to insert the added content into the original electronic document, but this is not possible. Even if the scanner device is used, a paper document can be converted into an electronic document. However, in this case as well, there is a problem in reflecting the contents of the handwriting work performed on the paper document in the electronic document. . For example, when a paper document on which an electronic document is printed is digitized again with a scanner, an image document is created as another electronic document even if the original electronic document created with word processor software or the like exists. In addition, the image document is also imaged by mixing the original electronic document and the added information, and the additional information cannot be inserted into the original electronic document.
[0004]
Since these conventional devices only have a function for acquiring the additional coordinates or a function for acquiring the image, it is impossible to identify the original electronic document printed on the paper. It is. As a result, since the electronic document to be inserted in the acquired additional coordinates is unknown, the above-described problem that the additional information cannot be inserted into the original electronic document occurs.
[0005]
In order to solve such a problem, for example, Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2 solve the problem by the following method. First, when printing an electronically created document, document identification information for specifying the original electronic document is simultaneously printed with a pattern such as a barcode that can be easily identified by a machine. Here, the electronic document identification information is information indicating the storage location, file name, page number, etc. of the original electronic file printed on a paper document, or information for managing them.
[0006]
For example,
"//C:\MyDocument\tmp.doc, pp1"
It is information such as. Next, at the time of handwriting input to a printed paper document, document identification information is acquired together with the added coordinate information. Next, when adding retouching information to an electronic document, according to the document identification information, the electronic document printed by the handwritten paper document is identified, and the rewriting information is inserted into the appropriate electronic document. It is possible to do. In particular, in Patent Document 2, a plurality of paper documents are stacked and installed on a handwriting input device, and can be automatically identified while being turned. Therefore, it is possible to more efficiently implement the work by using the electronic document and the paper document mutually.
[0007]
[Patent Document 1]
JP-A-9-91083
[0008]
[Patent Document 2]
JP 2000-112646 A
[0009]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a conventional handwritten information input device. The handwritten information input device shown in FIG. 1 includes a document identification information reading device 103 capable of reading document identification information 102 assigned to each of a plurality of paper documents 101 as a unique number, and a handwriting input unit 105 such as an electromagnetic induction digitizer. And a dedicated input pen 106. Writing 107 is performed with the dedicated input pen 106 on the electronic document body 104 of the paper document 101 arranged on the handwriting input unit 105. The conventional handwritten information input apparatus shown in FIG. 1 reads the document identification information 102 while turning a plurality of paper documents 101 stacked and installed on the handwriting input unit 105, and converts the acquired handwritten information into an appropriate electronic document. insert. At this time, in order to use the paper document while turning it, a document identification information reading device 103 constituted by a two-dimensional code reader, a barcode reader, etc. is installed beside the paper document 101, and is printed on the paper document by a barcode. It is necessary to read the document identification information 102 shown in FIG.
[0010]
In this case, the image pickup surface of the document identification information reading device 103 such as a code reader is installed so as to be orthogonal to the optical axis in order to avoid an image darkening due to the aberration of the optical system. The printing surface is diagonally opposed. At this time, a sufficient amount of light can be obtained, and a clear image can be obtained in a wide range as long as the optical system has a deep depth of field. However, usually, when a rectangular or square two-dimensional code is read with an oblique optical system, it is transformed into a trapezoid and read in the same manner as a picture drawn by so-called perspective. A phenomenon opposite to this phenomenon is seen, for example, as a phenomenon in which a rectangular figure is originally transformed into a trapezoid when an image from a projector is projected obliquely onto a wall surface. That is, in the oblique optical system, the front side is large and the pattern density is rough, and the back side is small and the pattern density is dense.
[0011]
On the other hand, as a two-dimensional image pickup device used in the image pickup system, a CCD and a C-MOS sensor are generally used, but fine image pickup devices are uniformly arranged in a matrix form. When two-dimensional codes having different pattern densities are read obliquely using such uniformly arranged image pickup elements, the image is picked up in such a size that a portion to be picked up with the highest density can be read. In other words, a small moving image on the back side reads one block in the two-dimensional code by one element, whereas an image that appears large on the near side has one pattern (block). Are read by multiple elements. In this way, in the portion having a low density on the near side, since a plurality of elements express the same block and the same information, it is difficult to efficiently express the information.
[0012]
On the other hand, as the number of electronic documents increases, the number of paper documents to be printed also increases. Therefore, a code required for document identification is required to have a larger capacity. For example, when a 6-digit Code 39 format is used as a one-dimensional code and used for document identification, the amount of information that can be expressed is 36 ^ 6 = 2.18E09 bits. However, as described above, the amount of paper documents printed is increasing, which is insufficient to identify all paper documents printed in normal business operations. On the other hand, in the two-dimensional code, for example, when a QR code is used, since up to 4464 characters can be expressed in one symbol by ASCII code, the identifiable information is 128 ^ 4464 = 3.8E + 9406 bits. Compared to the case of Code 39 above, it is several hundred digits or more, which is sufficient for identifying all paper documents.
[0013]
As described above, in the conventional handwritten character input device, a barcode is used as a machine-readable pattern (code) used for identifying a paper document, and the amount of information that can be recorded is small. It was difficult to use electronic documents and paper documents in cooperation with each other. Under these circumstances, in order to increase the amount of identifiable documents in a handwriting input device, development of an apparatus that efficiently creates a two-dimensional code that can be easily read by an optical system that is read from an oblique direction is required.
[0014]
The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and provides two-dimensionally expanded code information that can be easily read by an optical system that is read from an oblique direction and that can hold a large amount of information. It is intended to do.
[0015]
Another object of the present invention is to maintain high compatibility with existing two-dimensional code creation (printing) and reading systems in consideration of the effective use of two-dimensional codes which are known techniques.
[0016]
A first object of the present invention is to provide a two-dimensional code creation device capable of easily creating a two-dimensional code suitable for reading conditions of a two-dimensional code reader.
[0017]
A second object of the present invention is to provide a two-dimensional code creation device that can easily create a two-dimensional code suitable for reading by a two-dimensional code reader that reads obliquely.
[0018]
A third object of the present invention is to provide a two-dimensional code creation device that can easily create a two-dimensional code that can be read by a two-dimensional code reader having different reading conditions, using the same device.
[0019]
The fourth object of the present invention is to provide a two-dimensional code creation device that can easily create a two-dimensional code that can be read by a two-dimensional code reader having different reading conditions on the same sheet of paper. It is to be.
[0020]
A fifth object of the present invention is to provide a two-dimensional code creation device that can easily create a two-dimensional code that can be read by a two-dimensional code reader having different reading conditions on the same sheet by the same device. It is to be.
[0021]
A sixth object of the present invention is to provide a two-dimensional code creation device capable of generating a two-dimensional code suitable for various reading conditions and reading devices.
[0022]
The seventh object of the present invention is to easily create a two-dimensional code suitable for reading by a two-dimensional image reader having a scanner or a directly-facing optical system as well as suitable for reading from a diagonal two-dimensional code reader. It is to provide a possible two-dimensional code creation device.
[0023]
An eighth object of the present invention is to provide a two-dimensional code creation device capable of generating a two-dimensional code suitable for various reading conditions and reading devices.
[0024]
A ninth object of the present invention is to provide a two-dimensional code creation device capable of generating a two-dimensional code suitable for various reading conditions and reading devices.
[0025]
A tenth object of the present invention is to provide a two-dimensional code creation device capable of generating a two-dimensional code suitable for various reading conditions and reading devices.
[0026]
An eleventh object of the present invention is to provide a method for controlling a two-dimensional code creation device that can easily create a two-dimensional code suitable for the reading conditions of a two-dimensional code reader.
[0027]
A twelfth object of the present invention is to provide a method for controlling a two-dimensional code creation apparatus that can easily create a two-dimensional code suitable for reading by a two-dimensional code reader that reads from an oblique direction.
[0028]
A thirteenth object of the present invention is to provide a method for controlling a two-dimensional code creation device that can easily create a two-dimensional code that can be read by a two-dimensional code reader having different reading conditions, using the same device. is there.
[0029]
A fourteenth object of the present invention is to control a two-dimensional code creation device that can easily create a two-dimensional code that can be read by a two-dimensional code reader having different reading conditions on the same sheet. Is to provide a way to do.
[0030]
A fifteenth object of the present invention is to control a two-dimensional code creation device that can easily create a two-dimensional code that can be read by a two-dimensional code reader having different reading conditions on the same sheet. Is to provide a way to do.
[0031]
A sixteenth object of the present invention is to provide a method for controlling a two-dimensional code creation device capable of generating a two-dimensional code suitable for various reading conditions and reading devices.
[0032]
The seventeenth object of the present invention is to easily create a two-dimensional code suitable for reading by a two-dimensional code reader that reads from an oblique direction and also suitable for reading by a scanner or a two-dimensional image pickup device having a facing optical system. It is to provide a method for controlling a possible 2D code generator.
[0033]
An eighteenth object of the present invention is to provide a method for controlling a two-dimensional code creation device capable of generating a two-dimensional code suitable for various reading conditions and reading devices.
[0034]
A nineteenth object of the present invention is to provide a method for controlling a two-dimensional code creation device capable of generating a two-dimensional code suitable for various reading conditions and reading devices.
[0035]
A twentieth object of the present invention is to provide a method for controlling a two-dimensional code creation device capable of generating a two-dimensional code suitable for various reading conditions and a reading device.
[0036]
A twenty-first object of the present invention is to provide an electronic system for reading from an oblique direction using a two-dimensional code creating apparatus capable of printing document identification information with a two-dimensional code that can be easily read by the optical system for reading from an oblique direction. By providing an electronic document management system using a handwriting input device used for a document identification information reader, and providing an electronic document management system capable of utilizing a large number of paper documents and electronic documents in cooperation with each other is there.
[0037]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
The first object is to generate a two-dimensional code image that generates a non-deformed two-dimensional code image, and a two-dimensional code that deforms the non-deformed two-dimensional code image generated by the two-dimensional code generation device. It is achieved by a two-dimensional code creation device comprising: an image transformation device; and a two-dimensional code printing device that prints the transformed two-dimensional code image transformed by the two-dimensional code image transformation device. .
[0038]
The second object is achieved by a two-dimensional code creation device, wherein the deformation operation performed by the two-dimensional code image deformation device is a trapezoidal deformation.
[0039]
The third object is to generate the undeformed two-dimensional code image generated by the two-dimensional code generation device and the deformed two-dimensional code image deformed by the two-dimensional code image deformation device. This is achieved by a two-dimensional code creation device further comprising a print image switching device capable of switching and printing.
[0040]
The fourth object is to generate the unmodified two-dimensional code image generated by the two-dimensional code generation device and the modified two-dimensional code image modified by the two-dimensional code image deformation device. Is achieved by a two-dimensional code creation device characterized by printing on the same sheet.
[0041]
The fifth object is to generate the unmodified two-dimensional code image generated by the two-dimensional code generation device and at least two types of the two modified two images deformed by the two-dimensional code image deformation device. This is achieved by a two-dimensional code creation device characterized by printing a dimensional code image on the same sheet.
[0042]
The sixth object is that the two-dimensional code image transformation device has a plurality of different two-dimensional code image transformation means for dividing a two-dimensional code into two or more regions and transforming each region by a different method. This is achieved by a two-dimensional code creation device.
[0043]
The seventh object is characterized in that the two-dimensional code image transformation device divides the two-dimensional code into two or more regions and performs deformation for enlarging or reducing each region at different magnifications. This is achieved by the two-dimensional code creation apparatus.
[0044]
The eighth object is further achieved by a two-dimensional code creation device comprising a print image switching device capable of switching and printing two-dimensional code images deformed by the different deformation means. Is done.
[0045]
The ninth object is achieved by a two-dimensional code creation device, wherein the two-dimensional code printing device prints a plurality of two-dimensional codes deformed by the different deformation means on the same sheet. Is done.
[0046]
The tenth object is characterized in that the two-dimensional code printing apparatus prints a plurality of two-dimensional codes deformed by the different deformation means from two or more types of two-dimensional codes on the same sheet. This is achieved by a two-dimensional code creation device.
[0047]
The eleventh object is to modify a two-dimensional code image that deforms an undeformed two-dimensional code image, and to print a deformed two-dimensional code image deformed by the two-dimensional code image deformation step. It is achieved by a method for controlling a two-dimensional code creation device having:
[0048]
The twelfth object is achieved by a method for controlling a two-dimensional code creation device, wherein the deformation operation performed by the two-dimensional code image deformation step is a trapezoidal deformation.
[0049]
The thirteenth object is characterized by further comprising a print image switching step capable of switching and printing the unmodified two-dimensional code image and the modified two-dimensional code image. This is achieved by a method for controlling a dimension code generator.
[0050]
The fourteenth object is to print the unmodified two-dimensional code image and the deformed two-dimensional code image deformed by the two-dimensional code image deformation step on the same sheet. This is achieved by the method for controlling the two-dimensional code creation device.
[0051]
The fifteenth object is to print the undeformed two-dimensional code and at least two or more types of the deformed two-dimensional code deformed by the two-dimensional code image deformation step on the same sheet. This is achieved by a method for controlling a two-dimensional code creation device.
[0052]
The sixteenth object is that the two-dimensional code image transformation step includes a plurality of different two-dimensional code image transformation steps in which the two-dimensional code is divided into two or more regions and the respective regions are transformed by different methods. This is achieved by a method for controlling a two-dimensional code creation device.
[0053]
The seventeenth object is characterized in that in the two-dimensional code image transformation step, the two-dimensional code is divided into two or more regions, and each region is transformed to be enlarged or reduced at different magnifications. This is achieved by a method for controlling a dimension code generator.
[0054]
The eighteenth object further includes a print image switching step capable of switching and printing the two-dimensional code image deformed by the different deformation steps, and controlling the two-dimensional code creating device. Is achieved by the method of
[0055]
The nineteenth object is to control a two-dimensional code creation device, wherein the two-dimensional code printing step prints a plurality of two-dimensional codes transformed by the different transformation steps on the same sheet. Is achieved by the method of
[0056]
The twentieth object is characterized in that the two-dimensional code printing step prints a plurality of two-dimensional codes deformed by the different deformation devices from two or more types of two-dimensional codes on the same sheet. This is achieved by a method for controlling a two-dimensional code creation device.
[0057]
The twenty-first object is achieved by a document management system characterized in that the two-dimensional code creation device is used in an electronic document identification information printing device.
[0058]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
First, an overview of the present invention will be described, and then detailed embodiments of the present invention will be described.
[0059]
The present invention has been made for the above purpose, and generates a two-dimensional code that can be read by a two-dimensional code reader that reads a two-dimensional code on a printed sheet and prints it on the sheet. Consists of a (printing) device.
[0060]
The two-dimensional code creating device and the two-dimensional code reading device according to the present invention are used for outputting / printing / reading document identification information in a known electronic document management device or handwriting input device. Then, the identification information of a large amount of electronic documents can be efficiently expressed on a sheet using a usable two-dimensional code, thereby improving the efficiency of a work in which a large amount of paper documents and electronic documents are linked. it can.
[0061]
As described above, the two-dimensional code in the present invention is used in the electronic document management device and the handwriting input device. In such a case, the user creates electronically using a word processor or the like, manages the stored document by the electronic document management apparatus, and prints it as a paper document by the electronic document printing apparatus (printer). In the electronic document management apparatus of the present invention, the electronic document text is printed on paper, and at the same time, electronic document identification information that can identify the electronic document is printed as a two-dimensional code. Here, the electronic document identification information is information that can specify the original electronic document printed on a paper document, for example, a file name, a file storage location, a page number, and information that can specify them. . For example, when the electronic document printed on the paper document is the first page of the document “tmp.doc” stored in “C: \ MyDocument”, the electronic document identification information is:
Information such as “//C:\MyDocument\tmp.doc, pp1”.
[0062]
Next, handwritten information on the paper document printed by the electronic document printing apparatus is acquired by the handwritten information input apparatus, inserted into the original electronic document, and reflected. In this case, the handwritten information input device acquires the handwritten information on the paper document and at the same time acquires the electronic document identification information on the paper document. Can be inserted into an appropriate electronic document.
[0063]
Next, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described.
[0064]
The two-dimensional code according to the first embodiment of the present invention can be efficiently read even by an optical system that reads obliquely such as used as a document identification information reading device of a known handwriting input device. The pattern is created with a fine pattern, and the pattern on the side far from the image sensor is constituted by a rough pattern. As already mentioned, when reading a two-dimensional code with a rectangular or square outline and a uniform pattern density with an oblique optical system, the back side of the reading device is small and appears in high density, and the front side is Because it is large and looks like a pattern with low density, it is transformed into a trapezoid. Therefore, in order to correct such deformation at the time of reading, the two-dimensional code of the present invention makes the front side of the reading device small and high density and the back side of the reading device large and low density at the time of printing. To generate. As a result, a rectangular image is captured by the trapezoidal deformation at the time of reading.
[0065]
Here, when creating the above trapezoidal two-dimensional code, first, a two-dimensional code having a known square or rectangular outer shape and uniform pattern roughness is first created in advance. Then, a trapezoidal two-dimensional code is created by subjecting them to perspective transformation (trapezoidal transformation, perspective transformation, etc.). As described above, the present invention does not create a new trapezoidal two-dimensional code, but converts and diverts a known two-dimensional code, so that the labor for creating a new code can be greatly reduced.
[0066]
In addition, the two-dimensional code reader in the present invention is an optical system that reads an image from an oblique direction, but uses a two-dimensional code that has been previously corrected for the deformation of the image by reading from an oblique direction. The same image as the two-dimensional code having the outer shape is obtained, and a reading device designed on the assumption of a known directly-facing optical system can be used.
[0067]
2D code
As the two-dimensional code used in the present invention, a known one can be used, or the code can be uniquely defined and used. In the case of using a known one, a known two-dimensional code decoding device and a two-dimensional code generation device can be used, so that the system can be easily configured. Known two-dimensional codes are roughly classified into a stack type and a matrix type. For example, the stack type includes PDF417 and Code 49, and the matrix type includes DataMatrix, MaxiCode, QR code, and the like. Since both the optical system and the image sensor for reading the code are assumed to face the surface on which the code is printed, the outer shape of the two-dimensional code is rectangular or square, and the pattern density Is uniform.
[0068]
Configuration of the first embodiment of the present invention
Hereinafter, the configuration and operation of the first embodiment of the present invention will be described in more detail. The present invention is a two-dimensional code creation device that generates a two-dimensional code and prints it on a paper surface, and is used together with a two-dimensional code reader that reads a two-dimensional code on a printed paper surface. In the present invention, a known two-dimensional code reader can be diverted to the two-dimensional code reader.
[0069]
Further, the present invention can be used efficiently by using it as a part of an electronic document management apparatus and a handwritten information input apparatus.
[0070]
Two-dimensional code creation device
FIG. 2 shows the configuration of the two-dimensional code creation device. The two-dimensional code creation apparatus 200 mainly includes the known two-dimensional code generation apparatus 201 that generates the two-dimensional code having the above-described known rectangular and square outlines and uniform pattern roughness, and the generated 2 A two-dimensional code image deforming device 202 that performs an appropriate deformation for reading a dimensional code with an oblique optical system, a two-dimensional code printing device 203 using a known printing device such as a printer that prints the converted two-dimensional code, and the like Is configured by a control device 204 that appropriately operates the power source 205 necessary for the operation, a storage device 206 that stores data, and a communication device 207 that transmits and receives setting data and image data. In addition, setting data, image data, and the like can be mutually used with the external computer 208. The two-dimensional code creation apparatus 200 can be configured as an integrated system, or can be configured as an individual apparatus. Further, the two-dimensional code generation device 201 and the two-dimensional code image transformation device 202 can be realized as software on a computer, or can be configured as independent devices. Even when configured as independent devices, since each device is controlled by a so-called controller or embedded computer, the operation is not significantly different from that when configured as software on a computer. It is also possible to configure each as software on an independent computer. At this time, it is desirable to use a network such as Ethernet (registered trademark) or a serial cable such as USB or RS232 for connection to each device or external computer 208. However, each device is a CD-R or flexible disk. When an external storage device such as a drive is provided, it is also possible to use the external storage device for exchanging two-dimensional code image data even when not directly connected. The storage device 206 stores intermediate image data generated during the operation and a program describing the operation.
[0071]
2D code generator
The two-dimensional code generation device 201 is a device that generates image data of a known two-dimensional code, and can also be configured by software on a computer. As a known example when configured as computer software, “Burster (Inix Co., Ltd.)” and the like are commercially available. These software sets the data to be encoded into the two-dimensional code, the specification of the type, density, size, etc. of the two-dimensional code used for encoding, and the two-dimensional code based on the given data and the set specification. An image can be created and stored in the storage device 206. FIG. 3 shows a two-dimensional code image when the data “This is a sample DATA” is expressed by a QR code using the above “Burster (Inix Co., Ltd.)”. These softwares are not limited to use as independent applications, but can be applied to various applications as software modules, and can also be used together as subroutines of independently developed programs.
[0072]
Many of the two-dimensional code standards are open to the public, and the standard name JEIDA-47-1994 established in May 1994, “Barcode Symbol-Code 128-Basic Specifications”, 1996 Standard number JEIDA-51-1996 standard name “Barcode Symbol ITF (Interleaved Two of Five) Basic Specification” established in March, and standard number JEIDA-55-1998 standard established in March 1998 A code such as the name “two-dimensional code symbol (QR code) basic specification” is defined and published by the Japan Electronic Industry Development Association (JEIDA), and a generation device program and a generation device are independently created based on public information. It is also possible.
[0073]
Two-dimensional code image transformation device
Next, the two-dimensional code image deformation device 202 will be described. The two-dimensional code image transformation device is a device for transforming a known two-dimensional code having a rectangular or square outer shape created by the two-dimensional code creation device 201 and having a uniform pattern roughness. Consists of. In the deformation, the two-dimensional code image is converted into a trapezoidal image that becomes rectangular on the imaging surface when a two-dimensional code image placed in a three-dimensional space is obliquely projected onto a two-dimensional planar imaging device. This is done by perspective transformation that transforms the image.
[0074]
Here, the perspective transformation is transformation when a figure or object in the three-dimensional space is displayed on a two-dimensional plane or screen. This is a technique for converting the coordinates of an object in a three-dimensional space into coordinates on a two-dimensional plane, and is widely known as a three-dimensional image processing technique. Known software can be used, and it can be easily developed as an original program.
[0075]
Further, such perspective deformation is based on actual optical deformation, and the deformation method such as magnification can be accurately performed. However, in order to perform accurate perspective transformation, the position of the imaging system needs to be accurately clarified. However, considering the compatibility with various reading devices, it is difficult to specify and accurately determine the position of the imaging system. On the other hand, in order to exhibit the effect of being easy to read with an optical system that captures images from an oblique direction, it is not always necessary to perform accurate perspective transformation, but from a conventional rectangular, uniform density pattern, trapezoidal, various density images If it is converted to a little, the effect of being easy to read with an oblique optical system can be exhibited, and trapezoidal deformation can be used as such a simple deformation.
[0076]
When such trapezoidal deformation is realized as software, image processing software such as “PhotoShop (trademark)”, “CoreDraw (trademark)”, and “Illustrator (trademark)” can be used. These known image processing software has a function of performing trapezoidal deformation, and can perform trapezoidal deformation with one side of the image as a short side based on the image of the two-dimensional code generated by the two-dimensional code generation device. For example, FIG. 4 shows an example in which the two-dimensional code shown in FIG. 3 is modified. Here, the position of the short side of the trapezoid is the position on the near side of the optical system, and the pattern density is configured to increase as the distance from the optical system increases.
[0077]
The two-dimensional code deforming device generates a two-dimensional code image having the trapezoidal outline subjected to the above-described deformation, and stores it in a memory or as a file.
[0078]
Two-dimensional code printing device
As the two-dimensional code printing apparatus, a known printing apparatus can be used. When the two-dimensional code generation apparatus 201 and the two-dimensional code image transformation apparatus 202 are configured as software on a computer, A printer that can be connected to the computer system, and software on the computer that provides printing and control signals to the printer. It is also possible to configure the two-dimensional code image stored on the computer subjected to the above-described modification as a single printing apparatus using known means. Here, when the present invention is used in a known document management apparatus, a two-dimensional code image representing document identification information for specifying an electronic document is printed together with the text of the electronic document. FIG. 5 shows an example of a paper document in which document identification information using a two-dimensional code according to the present invention and the text of an electronic document are printed. A two-dimensional code 502 representing the electronic document identification information is printed on the paper document 500 together with the body 501 of the electronic document.
[0079]
Two-dimensional code reader
As described above, the two-dimensional code reader used together with the two-dimensional code generator of the present invention is equivalent to a known two-dimensional code reader, and is an imaging device constituted by a two-dimensional imaging device such as a CCD or a CMOS sensor. It consists of a code information decoding device for decoding information from the obtained image, a control circuit for controlling them, and a power supply device. There are many known two-dimensional code readers such as two-dimensional code readers (TL-30, TL-40) sold by Keyence Corporation. In either case, a two-dimensional code image is captured, and the encoded information is decoded and output.
[0080]
As described above, the two-dimensional code printed according to the present invention is obtained by using the same device as the known two-dimensional code reader to obtain the same image as the known two-dimensional code in an image captured obliquely. It is possible to read.
[0081]
Operation of the first embodiment of the present invention
The operation in the first embodiment of the present invention will be described below. The operation of this embodiment can be roughly divided into two-dimensional code creation (A) and two-dimensional code reading (B). In the first embodiment, the two-dimensional code reading operation (B) is equivalent to a reading operation using a known two-dimensional code reading device. When used with a known electronic document management apparatus and handwritten information input apparatus, the two-dimensional code is associated with the electronic document and handwritten input.
[0082]
A: Create 2D code
Regarding the two-dimensional code generation, the following procedure is performed using the two-dimensional code generation apparatus 200 configured by the two-dimensional code generation apparatus 201, the two-dimensional code image transformation apparatus 202, and the two-dimensional code printing apparatus 203 shown in FIG. Works with.
[0083]
Step A1: Two-dimensional code image generation operation
The two-dimensional code image generation operation in step A1 includes the following sub-steps A1-1, A1-2, and A1-3.
[0084]
Substep A1-1: Data expressed by a two-dimensional code and the specifications of the two-dimensional code to be created are acquired. There are various types of data expressed in the two-dimensional code. When the present invention is used in a known document processing system, it is information for identifying an electronic document. For example, the storage location, file name, and page number of the electronic document. The specification of the two-dimensional code sets the type, size, and resolution of the two-dimensional code.
[0085]
Substep A1-2: Next, a two-dimensional code image is created according to the set display data and specifications.
[0086]
Sub-step A1-3: The created two-dimensional code image is once stored and saved in the storage device 206 constituted by a memory or a file. In particular, when the two-dimensional code creation device is constituted by a plurality of devices or computers, it is temporarily stored as a file. At this time, it is desirable to use a general-purpose image format such as BMP, JPEG, or PDF as the format of the stored image.
[0087]
Step A2: Code image transformation operation
Next, the stored two-dimensional image data is transformed. The deformation is performed by the two-dimensional code image deformation apparatus 202 described above. The code image transformation operation in step A2 includes the following sub-steps A2-1, A2-2, and A2-3.
[0088]
Sub-step A2-1: Reading of image data: The two-dimensional code image data generated and stored by the two-dimensional code generation device is read into the two-dimensional code image transformation device.
[0089]
Sub-step A2-2: Coordinate transformation of image data: Trapezoidal deformation and perspective transformation are performed on the read two-dimensional code image.
[0090]
Sub-step A2-3: Writing of deformed image data: The deformed two-dimensional code image is temporarily stored in the storage device 206. Similar to the code data generation operation, when a two-dimensional code creation device is configured by a plurality of devices, it is stored as an image file in a general-purpose image format.
[0091]
Step A3: Code data printing operation
When the present invention is used with a known electronic document management apparatus, electronic document identification information for identifying an electronic document is represented in the two-dimensional code, and when printing, the electronic document data itself is printed at the same time. The code data printing operation in step A3 includes the following sub-steps A3-1, A3-2, A3-3, and A3-4.
[0092]
Sub-step A3-1: Reading of image data: A two-dimensional code image converted as described above is read.
[0093]
Substep A3-2: Reading of document data: Electronic document data related to the two-dimensional code is read as described above.
[0094]
Sub-step A3-3: Inserting image data: As described above, a two-dimensional code image is inserted into document data. In inserting the image data, a program corresponding to the electronic document data is used. Many programs for creating electronic document data are so-called word processors, but they are often capable of handling images. For example, MS-Word (registered trademark) of Microsoft Corporation and Ichitaro (registered trademark) of Just System can handle not only document data but also image data, and a two-dimensional code created by the above operation in an electronic document. It is possible to insert an image. The insertion position of the two-dimensional code image needs to be a position corresponding to the corresponding handwritten information input device.
[0095]
Sub-step A3-4: Printing of document data after insertion: As described above, the document data in which the two-dimensional code image is inserted is printed by the printer.
[0096]
B: 2D code reading
In the first embodiment, reading of the two-dimensional code is performed using a known two-dimensional code reader, and thus the operation is the same as that of the known example. Also, when used as a document identification information input device in a known handwritten information input device, the operation is the same as that of a known example.
[0097]
Step B1: Code data reading operation
The code information is read using a two-dimensional code reader. In the handwritten information input device, as described above, the imaging device reads two-dimensional data from an oblique direction.
[0098]
Step B2: Code information reading operation
The two-dimensional code reader reads data expressed in a two-dimensional code. When the present invention is used with a document management system or a handwriting input device, document identification information is expressed in the two-dimensional code.
[0099]
Step B3: Post-processing operation
Post-processing is performed using the data expressed by the two-dimensional code read by the above processing. When the present invention is used in a document management system, information expressed in a two-dimensional code is information for identifying an electronic file. When the present invention is used in the document management system, the document identification information expressed by the two-dimensional code is decoded according to the above operation, and then the same processing as the operation described in the known electronic document management system is performed. Do. The handwritten information acquired by the handwritten information acquisition device can be inserted into an appropriate identified document by reading the document identification information expressed by the two-dimensional code shown in the present invention.
[0100]
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.
[0101]
In the second embodiment of the present invention, a known two-dimensional code generated by the two-dimensional code generation device 201 and a two-dimensional code deformed by the two-dimensional code deformation device 202 are switched to change the two-dimensional code. It further has a print image switching device 600 capable of giving data to the printing device.
[0102]
In this way, in the first embodiment of the present invention, a two-dimensional code suitable for an optical system that is read obliquely is printed by switching between a known two-dimensional code that does not deform and a two-dimensional code that has been deformed. Even in a two-dimensional code creation device, and not only in a small input device having an optical system that reads from an oblique direction, but also in a device that reads an image with an optical system that faces a paper document such as a scanner or a high-function copier, 2 The dimension code can be read out.
[0103]
Configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention
The configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention is shown below. FIG. 6 shows the configuration of a two-dimensional code creation apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 6, the constituent elements having the same numbers as those in FIG. 2 indicate the same constituent elements. In addition to the first embodiment, the second embodiment of the present invention further includes a print image switching device 600 that switches between a two-dimensional code that is not deformed and a deformed two-dimensional code image and supplies the two-dimensional code image to the printing apparatus. The print image switching apparatus 600 includes an image storage apparatus 601 that stores given image data, an image data reading apparatus 602 that supplies the stored image to the printing apparatus, and a read image switching apparatus 603 that switches an image to be read. The print image switching apparatus 600 can be realized as software on a computer, or can be configured as an independent apparatus. Even when the device is configured as an independent device, the device is controlled by a so-called controller or an embedded computer, so that the operation is not significantly different from that when configured as software on the computer.
[0104]
Operation of the second embodiment
Next, the outline of the operation of the second embodiment of the present invention will be described. Step A1 of the two-dimensional code image generation operation and step A2 of the two-dimensional code image deformation operation are the same as in the first embodiment described above. In the second embodiment, a known two-dimensional code image generated by the two-dimensional code generation device 201 after step A1 of the two-dimensional code image generation operation and after step A2 of the two-dimensional code image deformation operation. Both the deformed two-dimensional code image generated by the two-dimensional code deformation device 202 are stored in the image storage device 601. Next, at step A3 of the two-dimensional code printing operation, the designated image among the images stored in the image storage device 601 is switched by the read image switching device 603, read by the image reading device 602, and then transferred to the printing device 203. Give and print.
[0105]
Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described.
[0106]
In the second embodiment of the present invention, an image for storing a known two-dimensional code image generated by the two-dimensional code generation device 201 and a two-dimensional code image deformed by the two-dimensional code deformation device 202. A storage device is provided, which includes a storage image reading device that reads a known two-dimensional code image and a deformed two-dimensional code image at the time of printing, and can supply data to the two-dimensional code printing device. When printing a two-dimensional code, a known two-dimensional code that is not deformed and a deformed two-dimensional code are printed on the same sheet.
[0107]
In this way, a well-known two-dimensional code that does not deform and a two-dimensional code that has been deformed are printed on the same sheet of paper, so that it is not limited to a small input device equipped with an optical system that reads obliquely, but also a scanner or a high-function copy A two-dimensional code can be read out even in an apparatus that reads an image with a directly-facing optical system such as a machine.
[0108]
Configuration of the third embodiment
The configuration of the third embodiment of the present invention is shown below. FIG. 7 shows the configuration of a two-dimensional code creation apparatus according to the third embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 7, the components given the same numbers as in FIG. 2 indicate the same components. In the third embodiment of the present invention, in addition to the first embodiment, an image storage device 701 that stores an undeformed two-dimensional code and a deformed two-dimensional code image, and an image readout that gives the stored image to a printing device. A device 702 is further included. The image storage device 701 and the image reading device 702 can be realized as software on a computer, or can be configured as independent devices. Even when the device is configured as an independent device, the device is controlled by a so-called controller or an embedded computer. Therefore, the operation is not significantly different from the case where the device is configured as software on the computer.
[0109]
Operation of the third embodiment
Next, an outline of the operation of the third embodiment of the present invention will be described. Step A1 of the two-dimensional code image generation operation and step A2 of the two-dimensional code image deformation operation are the same as in the first embodiment. In the third embodiment, a known two-dimensional code image generated by the two-dimensional code generation device 201 after step A1 of the two-dimensional code image generation operation and after step A2 of the two-dimensional code image deformation operation Both the deformed two-dimensional code image generated by the two-dimensional code deformation device 202 are stored in the image storage device 701. Next, at step A3 of the two-dimensional code printing operation, two types of images stored in the image storage device 701 are read by the image reading device 702, given to the printing device 203, and printed.
[0110]
FIG. 8 shows an example of a paper document in which document identification information and an electronic document text are printed according to the present invention. The paper document 800 is printed with a two-dimensional code 802 representing the electronic document identification information and a modified two-dimensional code 803 together with the body 801 of the electronic document.
[0111]
Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described.
[0112]
FIG. 9 shows the configuration of a two-dimensional code creation apparatus according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. In the fourth embodiment of the present invention, as in the third embodiment, a known two-dimensional code image generated by the above-described two-dimensional code generation device 201 and a two-dimensional image deformed by the two-dimensional code deformation device 202 are used. An image storage device for storing the code image; At this time, the deformed two-dimensional code image is configured by a storage device having a sufficiently large storage capacity so that a plurality of two-dimensional code images having different specifications (for example, different two-dimensional codes, different sizes, etc.) can be stored. Further, the image processing apparatus includes a stored image reading device that can read a known two-dimensional code image and a modified two-dimensional code image at the time of printing, and can supply data to the two-dimensional code printing device 203. When printing a two-dimensional code image, a plurality of undeformed plural two-dimensional code images and a plurality of deformed two-dimensional code images are printed on the same sheet based on a plurality of different specifications. .
[0113]
In this way, a plurality of well-known two-dimensional code images that are not deformed and a plurality of two-dimensional code images that have undergone a plurality of deformations are printed on the same sheet of paper, so that a two-dimensional code image suitable for an optical system that is read obliquely can be obtained. The printing apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention is not limited to a small input device having an optical system for reading from an oblique direction, but also an apparatus for reading an image using a facing optical system such as a scanner or a high-function copier. The two-dimensional code image can be read out under various conditions.
[0114]
Configuration of the fourth embodiment of the present invention
The configuration of the fourth embodiment of the present invention is shown below. FIG. 9 shows the configuration of a two-dimensional code creation apparatus according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 9, the components given the same numbers as those in FIG. 2 indicate the same components. In addition to the first embodiment, the fourth embodiment of the present invention is an image storage device 901 that stores a non-deformed two-dimensional code and a deformed two-dimensional code image, and an image reading device that provides the stored image to a printing device. 902. The image storage device 901 and the image reading device 902 can be realized as software on a computer, or can be configured as independent devices. Even when the device is configured as an independent device, the device is controlled by a so-called controller or an embedded computer, so that the operation is not significantly different from that when configured as software on the computer.
[0115]
The configuration of the fourth embodiment of the present invention is not significantly different from the configuration of the third embodiment, but the number of images stored in the image storage device 901 is larger than that of the image storage device 701 in the third embodiment. Therefore, the capacity needs to be large.
[0116]
Operation of the fourth embodiment of the present invention
The outline of operation of the 4th example of the present invention is shown. Step A2 of the two-dimensional code image generation operation and step A2 of the two-dimensional code image deformation operation are the same as in the first embodiment. In the fourth embodiment, step A1 of the two-dimensional code image generation operation and step A2 of the two-dimensional code image deformation operation are executed a plurality of times based on different specifications. In the fourth embodiment, as in the third embodiment, the two-dimensional code is generated after step A1 of the two-dimensional code image generation operation to be executed a plurality of times and after step A2 of the two-dimensional code image transformation operation. Both the known two-dimensional code image generated by the generation device 201 and the deformed two-dimensional code image generated by the two-dimensional code deformation device 202 are stored in the image storage device 901. Next, a plurality of images stored in the image storage device 901 during the two-dimensional code printing operation are read out by the image reading device 902, given to the printing device 203, and printing is performed.
[0117]
FIG. 10 shows an example of a paper document in which document identification information and an electronic document text are printed according to the present invention. The paper document 1000 is printed with a two-dimensional code 1002A representing the electronic document identification information and a modified two-dimensional code 1003A together with the body 1001 of the electronic document, and simultaneously transformed into a two-dimensional code 1002B by a different two-dimensional code. A dimension code 1003B is printed.
[0118]
Next, fifth to eighth embodiments of the present invention will be described.
[0119]
In the above-described embodiment, the two-dimensional code is transformed into a trapezoid and printed, so that even in an optical system that is read obliquely, high-capacity information can be expressed using pixels effectively. However, when deformed into a trapezoid, the pitch of the code changes above and below the two-dimensional code. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a two-dimensional code that is transformed into a trapezoid and printed. In FIG. 11, the two-dimensional code has a narrow upper pitch and a lower lower pitch. A scanner, a code reader having a facing optical system, and the like read a two-dimensional code from above, using a reading device that does not deform the read image, with the paper placed obliquely, as shown in FIG. When the two-dimensional code shown in Fig. 2 is read, the pitch for reading one line changes midway. For example, in the case of reading a stack type two-dimensional code expressing data with a line width as in the case of a one-dimensional barcode, the pitch between lines at the top of the code shown in FIG. The line width of the thick mark recorded in the narrow area is the same as the line width of the thin mark recorded in the area below the code shown in FIG. For example, in the case of reading a code along an oblique arrow with respect to the code shown in FIG. 11, a thick line is read at a narrow upper portion (A), and a thin portion is read at a lower lower pitch (B Therefore, each reading width becomes equal. Such misreading of data caused by a change in pitch is likely to occur not only in a stack type two-dimensional code but also in a matrix type two-dimensional code.
[0120]
The following fifth to eighth embodiments are embodiments showing the two-dimensional code creating apparatus of the present invention, which is a further improvement of the above-mentioned problems.
[0121]
First, a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described.
[0122]
The two-dimensional code in the fifth embodiment of the present invention is applied to the image sensor so that it can be read efficiently even by an optical system that reads obliquely, such as used in a document identification information reader of a known handwriting input device. The pattern on the near side is created with a fine pattern, and the pattern on the side far from the image sensor is constituted by a rough pattern. As already mentioned, when reading a two-dimensional code with a rectangular or square outline and a uniform pattern density with an oblique optical system, the back side of the reading device is small and appears in high density, and the front side is Because it is large and looks like a pattern with low density, it is transformed into a trapezoid. Here, the two-dimensional code of the present invention corrects such deformation at the time of reading so that the front side of the reading device is small and high density and the back side of the reading device is large and low density at the time of printing. To generate. Further, the deformation is a deformation in which the density is changed for each column of the code, and the two-dimensional code generated by the deformation is a stepped one. As a result, the image is captured as a rectangular image with jagged sides due to the trapezoidal deformation at the time of reading.
[0123]
Here, when creating the above-mentioned stepwise two-dimensional code, first, a two-dimensional code having a known square or rectangular outer shape and uniform pattern roughness is first created in advance. Then, stepwise two-dimensional codes are created by performing enlargement or reduction at different magnifications for each row of the two-dimensional codes. The enlargement / reduction ratio of each row is calculated by a known calculation formula based on the distance between the image sensor and the subject, which is used for trapezoidal deformation. Here, when the magnification is different between the upper part and the lower part of the line, the line of the two-dimensional code that is originally rectangular is transformed into a trapezoid, but the modification of the present invention is, so to speak, a quantized trapezoidal deformation. That's it. For example, it is created by deforming the entire row with the enlargement or reduction ratio calculated with respect to the center of the row. In this way, the present invention does not create a new step-like two-dimensional code, but converts and diverts a known two-dimensional code, so that it is possible to greatly reduce the trouble of creating a new code.
[0124]
In addition, the two-dimensional code reader in the present invention is an optical system that reads an image from an oblique direction, but uses a two-dimensional code that has been previously corrected for the deformation of the image by reading from an oblique direction. An image equivalent to a two-dimensional code having an outer shape is obtained, and a reading device designed on the assumption of a known directly-facing optical system can be used as it is. However, in order to obtain a higher recognition rate, it is desirable to perform a trapezoidal deformation in the reverse direction that corrects the trapezoidal deformation caused by the reading result.
[0125]
2D code
As the two-dimensional code used in the present invention, a known one can be used, or the code can be uniquely defined and used. In the case of using a known one, a known two-dimensional code decoding device and a two-dimensional code generation device can be used, so that the system can be easily configured. Known two-dimensional codes are roughly classified into a stack type and a matrix type. For example, the stack type includes PDF417 and Code 49, and the matrix type includes DataMatrix, MaxiCode, QR code, and the like. Since both the optical system and the image sensor for reading the code are assumed to face the surface on which the code is printed, the outer shape of the two-dimensional code is rectangular or square, and the pattern density Is uniform. Further, in the modification in the present embodiment, since a different modification is performed for each row of the two-dimensional code, the stack type two-dimensional code having a structure in which the one-dimensional code is stacked is a more suitable modification process.
[0126]
Configuration of the fifth embodiment of the present invention
Hereinafter, the configuration and operation of the fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described in more detail. The present invention is a two-dimensional code creation device that generates a two-dimensional code and prints it on a paper surface, and is used together with a two-dimensional code reader that reads a two-dimensional code on a printed paper surface. In the present invention, a known two-dimensional code reader can be diverted to the two-dimensional code reader.
[0127]
Further, the present invention can be used efficiently by using it as a part of an electronic document management apparatus and a handwritten information input apparatus.
[0128]
Two-dimensional code creation device
The two-dimensional code creation device in the fifth embodiment has the same block configuration as the two-dimensional code creation device 200 in the first embodiment shown in FIG. Therefore, the configuration of the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
[0129]
2D code generator
The two-dimensional code generation device 201 is a device that generates image data of a known two-dimensional code, and can also be configured by software on a computer. As a known example when configured as computer software, “Burster (Inix Co., Ltd.)” and the like are commercially available. These software sets the data to be encoded into the two-dimensional code, the specification of the type, density, size, etc. of the two-dimensional code used for encoding, and the two-dimensional code based on the given data and the set specification. An image can be created and stored in the storage device 206. FIG. 12 shows a two-dimensional code image 1201 when the data “This is a sample DATA” is expressed by the PDF417 code using the above-mentioned “Burster (Inix Co., Ltd.)”. These softwares are not limited to use as independent applications, but can be applied to various applications as software modules, and can also be used together as subroutines of independently developed programs.
[0130]
Many of the standards for the two-dimensional code are publicly available. The standard numbers JEIDA-47-1994, the standard numbers JEIDA-51-1996, and the standard numbers JEIDA-55-1998 described in the first embodiment are used. Such a code is defined and released by the Japan Electronics Industry Promotion Association (JEIDA), and it is also possible to independently create a generation device program and a generation device based on public information. Further, not only standardized codes but also unique symbols can be defined and used.
[0131]
Two-dimensional code image transformation device
Next, the two-dimensional code image deformation device 202 will be described. The two-dimensional code image transformation device is a device for transforming a known two-dimensional code having a rectangular or square outer shape created by the two-dimensional code creation device 201 and having a uniform pattern roughness. Consists of. In the deformation, the two-dimensional code image is converted into a trapezoidal image that becomes rectangular on the imaging surface when a two-dimensional code image placed in a three-dimensional space is obliquely projected onto a two-dimensional planar imaging device. Deform an image. The deformation operation according to the present invention is performed by enlarging or reducing each line of the two-dimensional code at an appropriate magnification, instead of uniformly performing the perspective transformation on the entire two-dimensional code. Therefore, the deformed two-dimensional code is deformed from the original rectangular image into a stepped image by this deformation operation. FIG. 13 shows a two-dimensional code 1301 before transformation composed of three lines, and FIG. 14 shows an example of a two-dimensional code 1401 transformed according to an embodiment of the present invention, for example. As shown in FIG. 13, each step of the code that has been rectangular before the deformation is enlarged / reduced at a magnification based on perspective transformation. Since each line is enlarged or reduced at a constant magnification, it is transformed into a stepped figure.
[0132]
Here, the perspective transformation is transformation when a figure or object in the three-dimensional space is displayed on a two-dimensional plane or screen. This is a technique for converting the coordinates of an object in a three-dimensional space into coordinates on a two-dimensional plane, and is widely known as a three-dimensional image processing technique. Known software can be used, and it can be easily developed as an original program. In order to accurately perform such perspective transformation, the position of the imaging system needs to be accurately clarified. However, in consideration of compatibility with various reading devices, it is difficult to specify and accurately determine the positions of all imaging systems of various reading devices. On the other hand, in order to exhibit the effect of being easy to read with an optical system that captures images from an oblique direction, it is not always necessary to perform accurate perspective transformation, but from a conventional rectangular, uniform density pattern, trapezoidal, various density images If it is converted to a little, the effect of being easy to read with an oblique optical system can be exhibited, and trapezoidal deformation can be used as such a simple deformation.
[0133]
When such trapezoidal deformation is realized as software, image processing software such as “PhotoShop (trademark)”, “CoreDraw (trademark)”, and “Illustrator (trademark)” can be used. These known image processing software has a function of performing trapezoidal deformation, and can perform trapezoidal deformation with one side of the image as a short side based on the image of the two-dimensional code generated by the two-dimensional code generation device.
[0134]
FIG. 15 shows an example of the configuration of a perspective transformation optical system, and FIG. 16 shows an example of a rectangular figure imaged by the perspective transformation optical system shown in FIG. The optical system of FIG. 15 includes a subject 1501, a lens 1502, and an imaging surface 1503. A captured rectangular figure (trapezoid) 1601 shown in FIG. 16 shows an image obtained by photographing the subject 1501 of FIG. 15 which is a rectangular figure on the imaging surface. In the optical system as shown in FIG. 15, the image (subject 1501) that was originally rectangular in the image captured on the imaging surface 1503 is transformed into a trapezoid 1601 in FIG. 16 by perspective transformation. At this time, the ratio (X1 / X3) between the long side and the short side of the trapezoid 1601 is equal to the reciprocal (L3 / L1) of the ratio of the distance from the image sensor to each area of the code. In the present invention, an image of a rectangular two-dimensional code is deformed so as to cancel the perspective transformation (trapezoidal deformation), and is deformed at a constant magnification for each line of the two-dimensional code. The magnification of this deformation is different in the distance from the imaging surface even in one line of the two-dimensional code. For example, using the magnification at the middle position of one line, all the lines from the upper part to the lower part in one line are used. Deform at equal magnification. By this transformation operation, the originally rectangular two-dimensional code is transformed into a figure having a stepped outer shape. For example, when a two-dimensional code having three rows of areas as shown in FIG. 13 is read by an optical system as shown in FIG. 15, the distance between the center position of each of the three rows of codes and the image sensor is set to L1, L2. , L3. At this time, the deformation operation is performed as follows.
[0135]
First, the magnification of the row closest to the image sensor is 1.0, the magnification of the row farthest from the image sensor is L3 / L1, and the magnification of the middle row is L2 / L1. Here, since the transformation of each row is performed at the same magnification over all parts of the row, each row, which is originally a rectangular figure, becomes a rectangular figure after transformation. It becomes a figure (two-dimensional code 1302 after deformation in FIG. 14). The two-dimensional code deforming device generates a two-dimensional code image having the trapezoidal outline subjected to the above-described deformation, and stores it in a memory or as a file.
[0136]
Two-dimensional code printing device
As the two-dimensional code printing apparatus, a known printing apparatus can be used, which is similar to the first embodiment described with reference to FIG. FIG. 17 shows an example of a paper document in which the document identification information using the two-dimensional code according to the fifth embodiment and the text of the electronic document are actually printed. A two-dimensional code 1701 representing electronic document identification information is printed on the paper document 500 together with the body 501 of the electronic document.
[0137]
Two-dimensional code reader
The two-dimensional code reader of this embodiment is the same as the two-dimensional code reader of the first embodiment described with reference to FIG.
[0138]
Operation of the fifth embodiment of the present invention
The operation of the present embodiment can be roughly divided into two-dimensional code creation (A) and two-dimensional code reading (B), but two-dimensional code creation (A) and two-dimensional code reading (B). Both operations are the same as those described in the first embodiment.
[0139]
Next, a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described.
[0140]
In the second embodiment described with reference to FIG. 6, one two-dimensional code image transformation device 202 is shown. However, in the sixth embodiment of the present invention, there are a plurality of two-dimensional code image transformation devices, such as the two-dimensional code image transformation devices 202A and 202B, and a known one generated by the two-dimensional code generation device 201. A print image switching device 600 capable of switching two deformed two-dimensional codes obtained by transforming a two-dimensional code by the two-dimensional code transforming devices 202A and 202B and supplying data to the two-dimensional code printing device. Also have.
[0141]
Examples of documents printed according to this embodiment are shown in FIGS. In the case of FIG. 19, a two-dimensional code 1901 representing electronic document identification information is printed on the paper document 800 together with the electronic document text 801. In the case of FIG. 20, a two-dimensional code 2001 representing electronic document identification information is printed on the paper document 800 together with the electronic document text 801. The two-dimensional code 1901 and the two-dimensional code 2001 are two-dimensional codes that are the same information and are deformed from the same two-dimensional code by different deforming apparatuses 202A and 202B. These two two-dimensional codes have different appearances, and are printed by appropriately selecting a two-dimensional code corresponding to the reading device.
[0142]
As described above, the two-dimensional code creating apparatus according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention prints a two-dimensional code suitable for an optical system that is read obliquely by switching and printing two different modified two-dimensional codes. In addition, not only a small input device having an optical system that reads obliquely but also a device that reads an image with an optical system that directly faces a paper document such as a scanner or a high-performance copier can read a two-dimensional code. Is possible.
[0143]
Configuration of the sixth embodiment of the present invention
The configuration of the sixth embodiment of the present invention is shown below. FIG. 18 shows the configuration of a two-dimensional code creation apparatus according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 18, components given the same numbers as those in FIG. 2 indicate the same components. The sixth embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of two-dimensional code deformation devices such as the two-dimensional code deformation devices 202A and 202B in addition to the fifth embodiment, and the two-dimensional code deformation devices 202A and 202B. The printer further includes a print image switching device 600 that switches a plurality of deformed two-dimensional code images that are output and gives them to the printing device. The print image switching apparatus 600 includes an image storage apparatus 601 that stores given image data, an image data reading apparatus 602 that supplies the stored image to the printing apparatus, and a read image switching apparatus 603 that switches an image to be read. The print image switching apparatus 600 can be realized as software on a computer, or can be configured as an independent apparatus. Even when the device is configured as an independent device, the device is controlled by a so-called controller or an embedded computer, so that the operation is not significantly different from that when configured as software on the computer.
[0144]
Operation of the sixth embodiment
Next, the outline of the operation of the sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described. Step A1 of the two-dimensional code image generation operation and step A2 of the two-dimensional code image deformation operation are the same as in the first embodiment described above. In the sixth embodiment, after step A2 of the two-dimensional code image deformation operation, the image storage device together with the plurality of deformed two-dimensional code images generated by the plurality of two-dimensional code deformation devices 202A and 202B. Save to 601. Next, at step A3 of the two-dimensional code printing operation, the designated image among the images stored in the image storage device 601 is switched by the read image switching device 603, read by the image reading device 602, and then transferred to the printing device 203. Give and print.
[0145]
Next, a seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described.
[0146]
In the sixth embodiment of the present invention, there are a plurality of two-dimensional code image deforming devices such as two-dimensional code image deforming devices 202A and 202B, which are deformed by the two-dimensional code deforming devices 202A and 202B. An image storage device that stores two deformed two-dimensional codes, and a stored image reading device that can read a plurality of deformed two-dimensional code images at the time of printing and provide data to the two-dimensional code printing device. When printing a two-dimensional code, a plurality of modified two-dimensional codes are printed on the same sheet.
[0147]
As described above, the printing apparatus according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention prints a two-dimensional code suitable for an optical system that is read obliquely by printing a plurality of modified two-dimensional codes on the same sheet. The two-dimensional code can be read out not only in a small input device having an optical system for reading from an oblique direction, but also in an apparatus for reading an image by a facing optical system such as a scanner or a high-function copier.
[0148]
Configuration of the seventh embodiment
The configuration of the seventh embodiment of the present invention is shown below. FIG. 21 shows the configuration of a two-dimensional code creation apparatus according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 21, the components given the same numbers as those in FIG. 2 indicate the same components. In the seventh embodiment of the present invention, in addition to the fifth embodiment, a plurality of two-dimensional image deformation devices 202A and 202B, an image storage device 701 that stores a plurality of deformed two-dimensional code images, and a stored image Is further provided with an image reading device 702 for supplying the image to the printing device. The image storage device 701 and the image reading device 702 can be realized as software on a computer, or can be configured as independent devices. Even when the device is configured as an independent device, the device is controlled by a so-called controller or an embedded computer. Therefore, the operation is not significantly different from the case where the device is configured as software on the computer.
[0149]
Operation of the seventh embodiment
Next, the outline of the operation of the seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described. Step A1 of the two-dimensional code image generation operation and step A2 of the two-dimensional code image deformation operation are the same as in the first embodiment. In the seventh embodiment, after step A2 of the two-dimensional code image deformation operation, a plurality of deformed two-dimensional code images generated by the two-dimensional code deformation device 202A and the two-dimensional code deformation device 202B are both imaged. Save in the storage device 701. Next, at step A3 of the two-dimensional code printing operation, two types of images stored in the image storage device 701 are read by the image reading device 702, given to the printing device 203, and printed.
[0150]
FIG. 22 shows an example of a paper document in which document identification information and an electronic document text are printed according to the present invention. A paper document 800 is printed with a deformed two-dimensional code 1901 and a deformed two-dimensional code 2001 that together represent the electronic document identification information, together with the body 801 of the electronic document. These two two-dimensional codes are deformed from the same two-dimensional code by different deformation devices 202A and 202B, show the same information, and have different external shapes.
[0151]
Next, an eighth embodiment of the present invention will be described.
[0152]
FIG. 23 shows the configuration of a two-dimensional code creating apparatus according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention. In the eighth embodiment of the present invention, as in the seventh embodiment, there are a plurality of two-dimensional code image deforming devices such as the two-dimensional code image deforming devices 202A and 202B. The image storage device stores two deformed two-dimensional codes deformed by 202B. At this time, the deformed two-dimensional code image is configured by a storage device having a sufficiently large storage capacity so that a plurality of two-dimensional code images having different specifications (for example, different two-dimensional codes, different sizes, etc.) can be stored. In addition, the image processing apparatus includes a stored image reading device that can read a plurality of two-dimensional code images deformed at the time of printing and give data to the two-dimensional code printing device 203. When printing a two-dimensional code image, a plurality of modified two-dimensional code images based on a plurality of different specifications are printed on the same sheet.
[0153]
In this way, the printing apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention prints a two-dimensional code image suitable for an optical system that is read obliquely by printing a plurality of modified two-dimensional code images on the same sheet. However, not only small input devices equipped with an optical system that reads from an oblique direction, but also devices that read an image with a facing optical system such as a scanner or a high-performance copier, can read a two-dimensional code image under various conditions. Is possible.
[0154]
Configuration of the eighth embodiment of the present invention
The configuration of the eighth embodiment of the present invention is shown below. FIG. 23 shows the configuration of a two-dimensional code creating apparatus according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 23, the components given the same numbers as in FIG. 2 indicate the same components. In the eighth embodiment of the present invention, in addition to the fifth embodiment, a plurality of two-dimensional image deformation devices 202A and 202B, an image storage device 901 that stores a plurality of deformed two-dimensional code images, and a stored image are stored. An image reading device 902 is provided to the printing device. The image storage device 901 and the image reading device 902 can be realized as software on a computer, or can be configured as independent devices. Even when the device is configured as an independent device, the device is controlled by a so-called controller or an embedded computer, so that the operation is not significantly different from that when configured as software on the computer.
[0155]
The configuration of the eighth embodiment of the present invention is not significantly different from the configuration of the seventh embodiment, but the number of images stored in the image storage device 901 is larger than that of the image storage device 701 in the seventh embodiment. Therefore, the capacity needs to be large.
[0156]
Operation of the eighth embodiment of the present invention
The outline of operation of the 8th example of the present invention is shown. Step A2 of the two-dimensional code image generation operation and step A2 of the two-dimensional code image deformation operation are the same as in the first embodiment. In the eighth embodiment, the step A1 of the two-dimensional code image generation operation and the step A2 of the two-dimensional code image deformation operation are executed a plurality of times based on different specifications. Also in the eighth embodiment, as in the seventh embodiment, after the step A2 of the two-dimensional code image deformation operation to be executed a plurality of times, a plurality of deformations generated by the two-dimensional code deformation devices 202A and 202B are performed. Both two-dimensional code images are stored in the image storage device 901. Next, a plurality of images stored in the image storage device 901 during the two-dimensional code printing operation are read out by the image reading device 902, given to the printing device 203, and printing is performed.
[0157]
FIG. 24 shows an example of a paper document in which the document identification information and the electronic document text are printed according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention. The paper document 1000 is printed with a two-dimensional code 1002A representing the electronic document identification information and a modified two-dimensional code 1003A, together with a body 1001 of the electronic document, and a two-dimensional code 1901 modified with a different two-dimensional code at the same time. The two-dimensional code 2001 is printed. Reference numerals 1002A and 1003A are two-dimensional codes which are deformed from the same two-dimensional code by different deformation devices and have different external shapes. 1901 and 2001 are different deformation devices from two-dimensional codes different from the above-mentioned 1002A and 1003A. This is a two-dimensional code that is deformed by the above and has different external shapes.
[0158]
【The invention's effect】
Book According to the invention, it becomes possible to easily create a two-dimensional code corresponding to the reading condition of the two-dimensional code reader, and the reading performance of various two-dimensional code readers is improved.
[0159]
Also book The invention makes it possible to easily create a two-dimensional code that can be easily read by a two-dimensional code reader having an optical system that reads from an oblique direction. The reading performance of the reader is improved.
[0160]
Also book According to the invention, it is possible to print while switching two-dimensional codes that are easy to read by a two-dimensional code reader having different reading conditions, and the reading performance of various two-dimensional code readers is improved.
[0161]
Also book The invention makes it possible to print two-dimensional codes that can be easily read by a two-dimensional code reader having different reading conditions on the same sheet, and various two-dimensional code readers for two-dimensional codes described in the same paper document. Reading performance is improved.
[0162]
Also book The invention makes it possible to print two-dimensional codes that can be easily read by a two-dimensional code reader having different reading conditions on the same sheet, and various two-dimensional code readers for two-dimensional codes described in the same paper document. Reading performance is improved.
[0163]
Also book According to the invention, it becomes possible to easily create a two-dimensional code corresponding to the reading condition of the two-dimensional code reader, and the reading performance of various two-dimensional code readers is improved.
[0164]
Also book The invention makes it easy to read a two-dimensional code reader having an optical system that reads from an oblique direction, and makes it easy to create a two-dimensional code that is easy to read even with a normal two-dimensional code reader. The reading performance of a two-dimensional code reader with an optical system for reading from an oblique direction is improved.
[0165]
Also book According to the invention, it is possible to print while switching two-dimensional codes that are easy to read by a two-dimensional code reader having different reading conditions, and the reading performance of various two-dimensional code readers is improved.
[0166]
Also book The invention makes it possible to print two-dimensional codes that are easy to read by two-dimensional code readers with different reading conditions on the same sheet of paper, and various two-dimensional code readers for two-dimensional codes written on the same paper document. Reading performance is improved.
[0167]
Also book The invention makes it possible to print two-dimensional codes that are easy to read by two-dimensional code readers with different reading conditions on the same sheet of paper, and various two-dimensional code readers for two-dimensional codes written on the same paper document. Reading performance is improved.
[0168]
Also book According to the invention, it becomes possible to easily create a two-dimensional code corresponding to the reading condition of the two-dimensional code reader, and the reading performance of various two-dimensional code readers is improved.
[0169]
Also book The invention makes it possible to easily create a two-dimensional code that can be easily read by a two-dimensional code reader having an optical system that reads from an oblique direction. The reading performance of the reader is improved.
[0170]
Also book According to the invention, it is possible to print while switching two-dimensional codes that are easy to read by a two-dimensional code reader having different reading conditions, and the reading performance of various two-dimensional code readers is improved.
[0171]
Also book The invention makes it possible to print two-dimensional codes that can be easily read by a two-dimensional code reader having different reading conditions on the same sheet, and various two-dimensional code readers for two-dimensional codes described in the same paper document. Reading performance is improved.
[0172]
Also book The invention makes it possible to print two-dimensional codes that can be easily read by a two-dimensional code reader having different reading conditions on the same sheet, and various two-dimensional code readers for two-dimensional codes described in the same paper document. Reading performance is improved.
[0173]
Also book According to the invention, it becomes possible to easily create a two-dimensional code corresponding to the reading condition of the two-dimensional code reader, and the reading performance of various two-dimensional code readers is improved.
[0174]
Also book The invention makes it easy to read a two-dimensional code reader with an optical system that reads from an angle, and makes it easy to create a two-dimensional code that can be easily read by a normal two-dimensional code reader. The reading performance of a two-dimensional code reader with an optical system for reading from an oblique angle used in equipment is improved.
[0175]
Also book According to the invention, it is possible to print while switching two-dimensional codes that are easy to read by a two-dimensional code reader having different reading conditions, and the reading performance of various two-dimensional code readers is improved.
[0176]
Also book The invention makes it possible to print two-dimensional codes that are easy to read by two-dimensional code readers with different reading conditions on the same sheet of paper, and various two-dimensional code readers for two-dimensional codes written on the same paper document. Reading performance is improved.
[0177]
Also book The invention makes it possible to print two-dimensional codes that are easy to read by two-dimensional code readers with different reading conditions on the same sheet of paper, and various two-dimensional code readers for two-dimensional codes written on the same paper document. Reading performance is improved.
[0178]
Also book According to the invention, it is possible to provide an electronic document management system using a two-dimensional code reader having various reading conditions as a document identification information reading device.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic diagram of a conventional handwritten information input device.
FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a two-dimensional code creation apparatus according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a two-dimensional code image.
4 is a diagram showing an example in which the two-dimensional code shown in FIG. 3 of the first embodiment is modified.
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a paper document in which document identification information using a two-dimensional code and the text of an electronic document are printed according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a configuration of a two-dimensional code creation apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a configuration of a two-dimensional code creating apparatus according to a third embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a paper document on which document identification information and an electronic document text are printed according to the third embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a configuration of a two-dimensional code creating apparatus according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a paper document in which document identification information and an electronic document body are printed according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a two-dimensional code printed by being transformed into a trapezoid.
FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a two-dimensional code image when expressed by a PDF417 code.
FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a two-dimensional code before deformation.
FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a two-dimensional code modified according to the fifth embodiment.
FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an optical system for perspective transformation.
FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of a rectangular figure captured by an optical system for perspective transformation.
FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a paper document in which document identification information and an electronic document text are printed according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a configuration of a two-dimensional code creating apparatus according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating an example of a paper document in which document identification information and an electronic document text are printed according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of a paper document in which document identification information and an electronic document text are printed according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a configuration of a two-dimensional code creating apparatus according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an example of a paper document in which document identification information and an electronic document text are printed according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 23 is a diagram showing a configuration of a two-dimensional code creating apparatus according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 24 is a diagram showing an example of a paper document on which document identification information and an electronic document text are printed according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention.
[Explanation of symbols]
101 Multiple stacked paper documents
102 Document identification information 102
103 Document identification information reader
200 Two-dimensional code creation device
201 Known two-dimensional code generator
202 Two-dimensional code image transformation device
202A two-dimensional code image transformation device
202B two-dimensional code image transformation device
203 Two-dimensional code printing device
204 Control device
205 power supply
206 Storage device
207 Communication device
208 External computer
500 paper documents
501 Body of electronic document
502 2D code
600 Print image switching device
601 Image storage device
602 Image data reading device
603 Read image switching device
701 Image storage device
702 Image reading device
800 paper documents
801 Body of electronic document
802 2D code
803 Modified two-dimensional code
901 Image storage device
902 image reading apparatus
1000 paper documents
1001 Body of electronic document
1002A two-dimensional code
1003A Modified two-dimensional code
1002B two-dimensional code
1003B Modified two-dimensional code
1301 Two-dimensional code before transformation
1302 Modified two-dimensional code
1701 Modified two-dimensional code
1901 Modified two-dimensional code
2001 Modified two-dimensional code

Claims (20)

A two-dimensional code generation device for generating an undeformed two-dimensional code image;
A two-dimensional code image deforming device for deforming the undeformed two-dimensional code image generated by the two-dimensional code generating device;
A two-dimensional code printing device that prints the deformed two-dimensional code image deformed by the two-dimensional code image deformation device;
The two-dimensional code image deforming device deforms the undeformed two-dimensional code image into a trapezoid.   The unmodified 2D code image generated by the 2D code generation device and the deformed 2D code image deformed by the 2D code image deformation device can be switched and printed. The two-dimensional code creation device according to claim 1, further comprising a print image switching device.   Printing the undeformed two-dimensional code image generated by the two-dimensional code generation device and the deformed two-dimensional code image deformed by the two-dimensional code image deformation device on the same sheet. The two-dimensional code creation device according to claim 1, wherein:   The unmodified two-dimensional code image generated by the two-dimensional code generation device and at least two or more types of modified two-dimensional code images deformed by the two-dimensional code image deformation device are on the same sheet. The two-dimensional code creation device according to claim 1, wherein the two-dimensional code creation device prints on top.   The two-dimensional code image transformation device includes a plurality of different two-dimensional code image transformation means for dividing a two-dimensional code into two or more regions and transforming each region by a different method. Item 2. The two-dimensional code creation device according to item 1.   2. The two-dimensional code according to claim 1, wherein the two-dimensional code image transformation device divides the two-dimensional code into two or more areas and performs transformation to enlarge or reduce each area at different magnifications. Code creation device.   6. The two-dimensional code creation device according to claim 5, further comprising a print image switching device capable of switching and printing two-dimensional code images deformed by the different deformation means.   6. The two-dimensional code creation device according to claim 5, wherein the two-dimensional code printing device prints a plurality of two-dimensional codes deformed by the different deformation means on the same sheet.   6. The two-dimensional code printing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the two-dimensional code printing apparatus prints a plurality of two-dimensional codes deformed by the different deformation means from two or more types of two-dimensional codes on the same sheet. Two-dimensional code creation device. A two-dimensional code image deformation step for deforming an undeformed two-dimensional code image;
Printing the deformed two-dimensional code image deformed by the two-dimensional code image deforming step,
The method of controlling a two-dimensional code creation device, wherein the two-dimensional code image transformation step transforms the undeformed two-dimensional code image into a trapezoid.   The two-dimensional image according to claim 10, further comprising a print image switching step capable of switching and printing the unmodified two-dimensional code image and the deformed two-dimensional code image. A method for controlling a code generator.   11. The undeformed two-dimensional code image and the deformed two-dimensional code image deformed by the two-dimensional code image deformation step are printed on the same sheet. A method of controlling the two-dimensional code creation device described.   The two-dimensional code that has not been deformed and at least two types of the two-dimensional code that have been deformed by the two-dimensional code image deformation step are printed on the same sheet. Item 11. A method for controlling the two-dimensional code creation device according to Item 10.   The two-dimensional code image transformation step includes a plurality of different two-dimensional code image transformation steps in which the two-dimensional code is divided into two or more regions and each region is transformed by a different method. Item 11. A method for controlling the two-dimensional code creation device according to Item 10.   11. The two-dimensional code image modification step divides the two-dimensional code into two or more regions, and performs deformation for enlarging / reducing each region at different magnifications. A method for controlling a dimension code generator.   The two-dimensional code creation device according to claim 14, further comprising a print image switching step capable of switching and printing the two-dimensional code image deformed by the different deformation steps. how to.   15. The two-dimensional code creation device according to claim 14, wherein the two-dimensional code printing step prints a plurality of two-dimensional codes deformed by the different deformation steps on the same sheet. how to.   The two-dimensional code printing step prints a plurality of two-dimensional codes deformed by the different deformation devices from two or more types of two-dimensional codes on the same sheet. A method for controlling a two-dimensional code creation device. 10. A document management system, wherein the two-dimensional code creation device according to claim 1 is used for an electronic document identification information printing device.   A handwriting input device used together with the document management system according to claim 19.

Images