JP6011682B2 - Information code reading system and information code reading device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an information code reading system and an information code reading device.

  At present, information codes such as barcodes and QR codes (registered trademark) are used for various purposes, and their usage purposes are also diversifying. In particular, in recent years, there is an increasing need for improving the security of information codes, and there is a demand for a configuration that can read information codes only when specific conditions are satisfied. As a technique for adding a security function to an information code, for example, a technique as disclosed in Patent Document 1 is provided.

JP 2010-146461 A

  In the technique of the above-mentioned patent document 1, the key information (3) is overprinted with the main data (2) with a printing liquid that is visible only under ultraviolet light. In this technique, since the key information (3) cannot be visually recognized under normal visible light conditions, the security of the data (2) encrypted under certain conditions is ensured.

  However, since the technique of Patent Document 1 attaches the key information (3) as numerical data and tries to make the operator visually check this in an ultraviolet environment, the operator can obtain the key information (3). There is a problem that whether or not it can be surely confirmed visually is greatly influenced by the environment (printing environment, reading environment, etc.) and configuration (size of information code and configuration of key information). In particular, when trying to reduce the size of the information code, even if the information code itself can be recognized by the reader, it is likely that the operator will not be able to see the key information (3). The operator cannot obtain the key information and the information code cannot be decrypted. Further, in the method in which the operator reads the data (2) and the key information (3) superimposed on each other, the success or failure of the final decoding depends on the skill level of the operator and the like. There is also a problem that it is difficult to decipher.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problem, and makes it difficult for a human to visually recognize an information code and makes it difficult for a general reader to recognize the information code, An object of the present invention is to provide a configuration capable of reliably reading when reading using a specific reading device.

The first invention (invention 1) is an information code formation having an information code comprising a two-dimensional code having a light-color module and a dark-color module and having a fixed-shaped specific pattern for recognizing the presence of the code. Medium,
Illumination means for illuminating illumination light, imaging means for imaging the information code forming medium irradiated with illumination light by the illumination means, and the information code from the image of the information code forming medium imaged by the imaging means An information code reader comprising: a decoding means for extracting and decoding;
An information code reading system comprising:
The information code forming medium is:
When the light of the first wavelength band including at least the visible light region is irradiated, the reflection characteristic of the dark color is exhibited, and when the light of the second wavelength band having a wavelength different from the first wavelength band is irradiated, An inversion region showing reflection characteristics and a non-inversion region showing dark reflection characteristics when irradiated with light in the first wavelength band and non-inversion regions showing dark reflection characteristics when irradiated with light in the second wavelength band And formed,
Of the light color module and the dark color module of the information code, the dark color module area is the non-inversion area, the light color module area is the inversion area, and the first wavelength. When the light of the band is irradiated, the entire area of the dark color module and the entire area of the light color module are integrated in the same dark color in the entire area of the information code.
The illumination means includes second illumination light irradiation means capable of irradiating the information code forming medium with illumination light of the second wavelength band,
The imaging means is configured to irradiate the illumination light of the first wavelength band and the second wavelength band while the illumination light of the first wavelength band and the second wavelength band is simultaneously irradiated onto the information code forming medium. The reflected light from each information code forming medium by irradiation is received by a common light receiving surface to image the information code forming medium,
The decoding means includes the inversion area and the non-inversion area in the image of the information code forming medium imaged by the imaging means in a state where illumination lights of the first wavelength band and the second wavelength band are simultaneously irradiated. The areas of the light color module and the dark color module are extracted by detecting them separately, and the information code is decoded based on the extraction result.

According to a second aspect of the present invention (invention 2), there is provided an information code formation in which an information code comprising a two-dimensional code having a light-color module and a dark-color module and having a fixed shape specific pattern for recognizing the presence of the code Medium,
Illumination means for illuminating illumination light, imaging means for imaging the information code forming medium irradiated with illumination light by the illumination means, and the information code from the image of the information code forming medium imaged by the imaging means A decoding means for extracting and decoding, the information code reader comprising:
An information code reading system comprising:
The information code forming medium is:
Reflects in dark color when irradiated with light of at least a first wavelength band in the visible light region, and reflects light color when irradiated with light of a second wavelength band having a wavelength different from that of the first wavelength band. An inversion region exhibiting characteristics, and a non-inversion region exhibiting dark color reflection characteristics when irradiated with light in the first wavelength band, and exhibiting dark color reflection characteristics when irradiated with light in the second wavelength band; Formed,
Of the light color module and the dark color module of the information code, the area of the dark color module is the non-inversion area, the area of the light color module is the inversion area, and the first When the light in the wavelength band is irradiated, the entire area of the dark color module and the entire area of the light color module are integrated in the same dark color in the entire area of the information code.
The illumination means includes
First illumination light irradiation means capable of irradiating the information code forming medium with illumination light of the first wavelength band;
Second illumination light irradiation means capable of irradiating the information code forming medium with illumination light of the second wavelength band,
The imaging means is configured to irradiate the illumination light of the first wavelength band and the second wavelength band while the illumination light of the first wavelength band and the second wavelength band is simultaneously irradiated onto the information code forming medium. The reflected light from each information code forming medium by irradiation is received by a common light receiving surface to image the information code forming medium,
The decoding means includes the inversion area and the non-inversion area in the image of the information code forming medium imaged by the imaging means in a state where illumination lights of the first wavelength band and the second wavelength band are simultaneously irradiated. The areas of the light color module and the dark color module are extracted by detecting them separately, and the information code is decoded based on the extraction result.

According to a third aspect of the present invention (invention 16), there is provided an information code formation having an information code formed of a two-dimensional code having a light color module and a dark color module and having a fixed-shaped specific pattern for recognizing the presence of the code. Illuminating means for illuminating the medium with illumination light;
Imaging means for imaging the information code forming medium irradiated with illumination light by the illumination means;
Decoding means for extracting and decoding the information code from the image of the information code forming medium imaged by the imaging means;
An information code reader comprising:
The information code forming medium is:
When the light of the first wavelength band in the visible light region is irradiated, the reflection characteristic of dark color is exhibited, and when the light of the second wavelength band having a wavelength different from that of the first wavelength band is irradiated, the reflection characteristic of light color is exhibited. And a non-inverted region that exhibits dark color reflection characteristics when irradiated with light in the first wavelength band and a non-inverted region that exhibits dark color reflection characteristics when irradiated with light in the second wavelength band. Formed,
Of the light color module and the dark color module of the information code, the dark color module area is the non-inversion area, the light color module area is the inversion area, and the first wavelength. When the light of the band is irradiated, the entire area of the dark color module and the entire area of the light color module are integrated in the same dark color in the entire area of the information code.
The illumination means includes second illumination light irradiation means capable of irradiating the information code forming medium with illumination light of the second wavelength band,
The imaging means is configured to irradiate the illumination light of the first wavelength band and the second wavelength band while the illumination light of the first wavelength band and the second wavelength band is simultaneously irradiated onto the information code forming medium. The reflected light from each information code forming medium by irradiation is received by a common light receiving surface to image the information code forming medium,
The decoding means includes the inversion area and the non-inversion area in the image of the information code forming medium imaged by the imaging means in a state where illumination lights of the first wavelength band and the second wavelength band are simultaneously irradiated. The areas of the light color module and the dark color module are extracted by detecting them separately, and the information code is decoded based on the extraction result.

In the information code forming medium, the inversion region and the non-inversion region are formed in the information code forming medium, and the inversion region is dark or light when irradiated with light in the first wavelength band of the visible light region. The reflection characteristics of the first color band are shown, and when the light of the second wavelength band having a wavelength different from that of the first wavelength band is irradiated, the other reflection characteristics of the dark color or the light color are shown. In addition, the non-inversion region shows one of the reflection characteristics of dark color or light color when irradiated with light of the first wavelength band, and one of dark color or light color when irradiated with light of the second wavelength band. It is configured to exhibit reflection characteristics.
Of the light color module and dark color module of the information code, the area of one module is set as one area of the inverted area or non-inverted area, and the area of the other module is set as the other area of the inverted area or non-inverted area. Has been.
In this configuration, during normal irradiation with light in the first wavelength band (ie, visible light), the light color module and the dark color module both exhibit the same kind of reflection characteristics in the information code portion of the information code forming medium. It will be. Thereby, for example, when a person sees the vicinity of the information code, the information code portion is visually recognized as a dark color region or a light color region as a whole. Further, even if an information code portion is to be read by a general reading device, the information code portion is recognized as a dark color region or a light color region as a whole only by applying visible light, and thus cannot be read. Accordingly, it is difficult to grasp the existence of the information code as described above at the normal time, and it is difficult for the user to perform the reading operation itself. Further, even if an attempt is made to read the information code by a general reading device, the information code cannot be read, so that the security of the information code can be improved more reliably.
On the other hand, the information code reader is configured to irradiate the information code forming medium with the illumination light of the first wavelength band and the second wavelength band while the illumination light of the first wavelength band and the second wavelength band is irradiated simultaneously. Since the reflected light from each information code forming medium is received by a common light receiving surface and the information code forming medium is imaged, the inversion area is inverted and the non-inversion area is inverted in the captured image. The image is taken without it. That is, in the captured code image, one of the light color module and the dark color module is inverted and the other is not inverted. Therefore, the area of the light color module and the area of the dark color module are clearly distinguished. can do.
Then, the decoding means extracts the bright color module and dark color module areas by distinguishing and detecting the inverted area and the non-inverted area in the image of the information code forming medium, and the information code based on the extraction result. According to this configuration, the information code can be decoded more reliably.
Specifically, in the information code forming medium, the inversion region exhibits a dark color reflection characteristic when irradiated with light of the first wavelength band, and reflects light color when irradiated with light of the second wavelength band. The non-inverted region is a region exhibiting dark color reflection characteristics when irradiated with light in the first wavelength band, and a dark color reflection characteristic when irradiated with light in the second wavelength band. It is said that. In the information code formed on the information code forming medium, the dark module area is a non-inverted area and the bright module is an inverted area.
In this configuration, during normal irradiation with light in the first wavelength band (ie, visible light), both the light color module and the dark color module exhibit dark color reflection characteristics in the information code portion of the information code forming medium. It will be. That is, since the information code portion is visually recognized as a dark color region as a whole, it is difficult to specify that the information code is arranged at the position.
On the other hand, the captured code image has a light color configuration in which the light color module is inverted and a dark color configuration in which the dark color module is not inverted, so that the dark color module can be made more prominent. Therefore, it is easy to clarify the information code at the time of reading, and as a result, reading can be performed more reliably.
Also, in this configuration, during normal irradiation with light in the first wavelength band (ie, visible light), the light color module and the dark color module are both dark color reflection characteristics in the information code portion of the information code forming medium. In general, even if it is copied by a copying machine or the like, the entire information code portion is dark in color, and in the information code form (that is, the light color module and the dark color module are It cannot be copied (in a separate, decipherable form). Therefore, it is possible to effectively prevent leakage, diversion, and the like due to copying.

In the information code forming medium, the inversion region and the non-inversion region are formed in the information code forming medium, and the inversion region is dark or light when irradiated with light in the first wavelength band of the visible light region. The reflection characteristics of the first color band are shown, and when the light of the second wavelength band having a wavelength different from that of the first wavelength band is irradiated, the other reflection characteristics of the dark color or the light color are shown. In addition, the non-inversion region shows one of the reflection characteristics of dark color or light color when irradiated with light of the first wavelength band, and one of dark color or light color when irradiated with light of the second wavelength band. It is configured to exhibit reflection characteristics.
Of the light color module and dark color module of the information code, the area of one module is set as one area of the inverted area or the non-inverted area, and the area of the other module is set as the other area of the inverted area or the non-inverted area. Has been.
In this configuration, during normal irradiation with light in the first wavelength band (ie, visible light), the light color module and the dark color module both exhibit the same kind of reflection characteristics in the information code portion of the information code forming medium. It will be. That is, since the information code portion is visually recognized as a dark color region or a light color region as a whole, it is difficult to specify that the information code is arranged at the position. Accordingly, it is difficult to read the information code at normal time, and the security of the information code can be improved.
On the other hand, the information code reader is configured so that each of the information code forming media by irradiation of the illumination light in the first wavelength band and the second wavelength band is irradiated with the illumination light in the first wavelength band and the second wavelength band at the same time. Since the information code forming medium is picked up by receiving the reflected light on the common light receiving surface, the inversion area is inverted and the non-inversion area is imaged without inversion in the captured image. become. That is, in the captured code image, one of the light color module and the dark color module is inverted and the other is not inverted. Therefore, the area of the light color module and the area of the dark color module are clearly distinguished. can do. Furthermore, since the imaging is performed by irradiating the illumination light of the first wavelength band together with the illumination light of the second wavelength band, the inverted image of the inversion region and the non-inversion image of the non-inversion region are captured more clearly. It will be.
Then, the decoding means extracts the bright color module and dark color module areas by distinguishing and detecting the inverted area and the non-inverted area in the image of the information code forming medium, and the information code based on the extraction result. According to this configuration, the information code can be decoded more reliably.
Specifically, in the information code forming medium, the inversion region exhibits a dark color reflection characteristic when irradiated with light of the first wavelength band, and reflects light color when irradiated with light of the second wavelength band. The non-inverted region is a region exhibiting dark color reflection characteristics when irradiated with light in the first wavelength band, and a dark color reflection characteristic when irradiated with light in the second wavelength band. It is said that. In the information code formed on the information code forming medium, the dark module area is a non-inverted area and the bright module is an inverted area.
In this configuration, during normal irradiation with light in the first wavelength band (ie, visible light), both the light color module and the dark color module exhibit dark color reflection characteristics in the information code portion of the information code forming medium. It will be. That is, since the information code portion is visually recognized as a dark color region as a whole, it is difficult to specify that the information code is arranged at the position.
On the other hand, the captured code image has a light color configuration in which the light color module is inverted and a dark color configuration in which the dark color module is not inverted, so that the dark color module can be made more prominent. Therefore, it is easy to clarify the information code at the time of reading, and as a result, reading can be performed more reliably.
Also, in this configuration, during normal irradiation with light in the first wavelength band (ie, visible light), the light color module and the dark color module are both dark color reflection characteristics in the information code portion of the information code forming medium. In general, even if it is copied by a copying machine or the like, the entire information code portion is dark in color, and in the information code form (that is, the light color module and the dark color module are It cannot be copied (in a separate, decipherable form). Therefore, it is possible to effectively prevent leakage, diversion, and the like due to copying.

  In the invention of claim 3, the number of light sources of the second illumination light irradiation means is larger than the number of light sources of the first illumination light irradiation means. According to this configuration, by increasing the irradiation amount of the second illumination light as compared with the first illumination light, the inversion region can be more reliably inverted, and the accuracy of reading the information code can be further increased.

In the invention of claim 4, a second information code different from the information code is arranged on the information code forming medium. The light module of the second information code exhibits a light color reflection characteristic when irradiated with light of the first wavelength band, and the dark module of the second information code emits light of the first wavelength band. When this is done, it shows dark reflection characteristics.
In this case, a code that requires irradiation in the second wavelength band for reading (that is, the information code that requires the information code reader) and a code that can be read by a general reader (the second code) Information code) can be used together on the same information code forming medium, and the convenience of the information code forming medium can be enhanced by using two types of codes having different characteristics. For example, information with high importance or confidentiality is recorded in one of the information codes, information with low importance is recorded in the second information code on the other side, and regular information is provided for reading one of the information codes. It is possible to adopt a method such that only the second information code can be handled other than the regular equipment.
On the other hand, the information code reader is premised on the information code forming medium as described above, and at least at a predetermined time, the illumination light is irradiated by the first illumination light irradiation means and the illumination light is irradiated by the second illumination light irradiation means. And the imaging means is configured to image the information code forming medium while the information code forming medium is irradiated with illumination light of the first wavelength band and the second wavelength band simultaneously. . The decoding means extracts both the information code and the second information code from the captured image of the information code forming medium, and decodes both types of codes.
According to this configuration, in the configuration in which the convenience is enhanced by the two types of codes having different reflection modes as described above, the state where both the images of both codes can be decoded (that is, the light / dark pattern is clarified). Code) can be obtained at the same time, and the code reading time can be shortened effectively.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the information code forming medium, the dark color module of the information code and the dark module of the second information code are formed of the same ink.
According to this configuration, it is possible to reduce the ink type as compared with the case where each code is printed with different inks, and it is possible to reduce the manufacturing cost and the manufacturing process.

  According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the information code forming medium, a background region composed of an inversion region or a non-inversion region is formed around the information code formation region in a configuration continuous with the formation region. In this configuration, during normal times when the illumination light of the second wavelength band is not irradiated, the information code formation region and the background region exhibit the same type of reflection characteristics, and the information code formation region and the background region are integrated. Therefore, it is more difficult to specify the position of the information code. Therefore, security can be further improved.

In the configuration of claim 7, in the information code forming medium, a background region composed of an inversion region or a non-inversion region is formed around the information code formation region in a configuration continuous with the formation region. The information code forming medium is formed over substantially the entire surface of one side, and the background area is configured as a dark color area.
According to this configuration, it is easy to secure a large area where the information code can be arranged on one side of the information code forming medium, and the degree of freedom of arrangement of the information code is increased.

  In the invention of claim 8, the background area is configured as a design area having a predetermined shape made up of characters, figures, symbols, patterns, or combinations thereof. In this configuration, during normal times when the illumination light of the second wavelength band is not irradiated, the information code formation region exhibits the same kind of reflection characteristics as the design region in the design region, and the information code formation region is designed. It will be visually recognized as a part of the area. Therefore, it becomes more difficult to specify the position of the information code, and the security can be further improved.

  In the invention of claim 12, the information code forming medium is configured as thermal paper, and the information code is formed on the thermal paper by heat. On the other hand, the background area is formed of an ink medium. In this configuration, since the information code is configured by heat, the information code can be obscured or erased over time after the information code is formed. Therefore, the content of the information code becomes more difficult to grasp as time passes, which is more advantageous in terms of security.

In the information code forming medium, the information code forming medium exhibits dark color reflection characteristics when irradiated with light of the first wavelength band, and light color reflection characteristics when irradiated with light of the second wavelength band. A first color-developing medium shown, a second color-developing medium that exhibits dark color reflection characteristics when irradiated with light in the first wavelength band, and that exhibits dark color reflection characteristics when irradiated with light in the second wavelength band; Is attached.
Further, the dark color module of the information code is formed by the second color developing medium, and the entire area of the dark color module formed by the second color developing medium is surrounded by the first color forming medium forming area. It is formed so as to overlap inside.
In this configuration, since the information code forming region is entirely buried in the first color forming medium forming region, it is more difficult to grasp the position of the information code.

  In the configuration according to claim 14, the information code formed on the information code forming medium includes a partially private code having at least a part of a private area in which encrypted data encrypted based on a predetermined encryption key is recorded. It is configured as. In this configuration, it is possible to improve the security by making it difficult to grasp the position of the information code in the normal state, and it is also possible to improve the confidentiality of the data of the information code itself. Therefore, data leakage prevention from the information code can be further enhanced, and the security aspect can be further enhanced.

According to the fifteenth aspect of the present invention, in the information code reader, a recognition means for recognizing the information code forming medium is provided, and the illuminating means has at least the second wavelength band when the recognition means recognizes the information code forming medium. The illumination light is configured to be irradiated.
In this configuration, the illumination light of the second wavelength band can be irradiated with the recognition of the information code forming medium by the recognition means as a trigger, so that it is possible to effectively save power without irradiating the illumination light of the second wavelength band without darkness. Can be achieved. On the other hand, in the above configuration, the information code cannot be decoded unless the illumination light in the second wavelength band is irradiated, and there is a problem when the illumination light in the second wavelength band should be irradiated in order to speed up reading. In claim 15, illumination light of the second wavelength band is irradiated in accordance with the timing at which the information code forming medium with the information code attached is recognized, so that the reading system is prepared in advance after the recognition. Is possible. Therefore, the image of the information code irradiated with the illumination light in the second wavelength band can be acquired earlier, and the information code can be read more quickly.

  According to the sixteenth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to realize an information code reading device having the same effects as those of the first embodiment.

FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram conceptually illustrating an information code reading system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram schematically illustrating an example of an information code forming medium used in the information code reading system of FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram schematically illustrating a main part of an information code reading device used in the information code reading system of FIG. 4A is an explanatory diagram for explaining a captured image obtained by capturing the information code forming medium of FIG. 2 with a general reading device, and FIG. 4B is a diagram illustrating the information code forming medium of FIG. It is explanatory drawing explaining the picked-up image imaged with the reader. FIG. 5 is a block diagram schematically illustrating an example of a forming apparatus for forming the information code forming medium of FIG. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram schematically illustrating a method of creating the information code forming medium of FIG. FIG. 7 is an explanatory view and an enlarged view conceptually illustrating the information code forming area and the background area of the information code forming medium of FIG. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram schematically illustrating an example of the method for creating the information code forming medium of FIG. 2 different from FIG. FIG. 9 is an explanatory view for schematically explaining an example of the method for creating the information code forming medium of FIG. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a specific example in which the information code reading system according to the first embodiment of the present invention is applied to a parking lot management system. FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of the settlement process in the parking lot management system of FIG. FIG. 12A is an explanatory diagram for schematically explaining an example of an information code forming medium used in the information code reading system of the second embodiment, and FIG. 12B is an information code of FIG. It is explanatory drawing explaining the picked-up image which imaged the formation medium with the reader of FIG. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a specific example in which the information code reading system of the second embodiment is applied to a parking lot management system. FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating the electrical configuration of the information code reading system of the second embodiment. FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram schematically illustrating an example of an information code forming medium used in another embodiment.

[First embodiment]
A first embodiment that embodies an information code reading system and the like according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.
(Outline of information code reading system)
FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram conceptually illustrating an information code reading system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. An information code reading system 1 shown in FIG. 1 includes an information code forming medium 10 (hereinafter also simply referred to as a medium 10) on which an information code C (see FIGS. 2 and 3) having a light color module and a dark color module is formed. ) And an information code reading device 40 (hereinafter also simply referred to as reading device 40) capable of reading the information code C formed on the medium 10, and reads the information code C formed on the medium 10. The device 40 can acquire and output the data in the information code by extracting and decoding. Hereinafter, the medium 10 and the reading device 40 will be described in detail.

(Information code forming medium)
FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram schematically illustrating an example of an information code forming medium used in the information code reading system of FIG.
The information code forming medium 10 is formed by forming an information code C on a paper, a resin member, or a metal member. The information code C is composed of a one-dimensional code such as a bar code, a two-dimensional code (QR code, data matrix code, maxi code, etc.) or a partially private code described later, and can be decoded by a known method. It has a configuration.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the information code forming medium 10 is formed by overlapping information code forming areas C1 and C2 in which the information code C is formed with a background area A2 made up of characters, figures, symbols, patterns, and the like. In the normal state where the visible light is dominant, the areas C1 and C2 of the information code C are integrated with the background area A2, and it is difficult to grasp only the information code C. In FIG. 2, the positions of the information code forming areas C1 and C2 are conceptually indicated by a one-dot chain line.

  In this information code forming medium 10, areas B1 to B7 to which characters, figures, symbols, patterns, etc. are attached are divided into an inversion area and a non-inversion area. The inversion region shows dark reflection characteristics when irradiated with light in the first wavelength band including at least the visible light region, and when irradiated with light in the second wavelength band having a wavelength different from that of the first wavelength band. It is configured to show light color reflection characteristics. The non-inverted region is configured to exhibit a dark color reflection characteristic when irradiated with light in the first wavelength band and to exhibit a dark color reflection characteristic when irradiated with light in the second wavelength band. .

  In the information code C formed on the information code forming medium 10, the area A3 of the dark color module (dark color cell in the example shown in FIG. 4 etc.) is a non-inverted area, and the light color module (light color cell: FIG. 4). The area A4 is an inversion area. Further, in the information code forming medium 10, a background area A2 composed of an inversion area is formed around the formation areas C1 and C2 of the information code C in a configuration continuous with the formation areas C1 and C2. Because of this configuration, in a general reading apparatus that emits visible light as illumination light, the light module area A4, the dark module area A3, and the background area A2 are all as shown in FIG. The image is captured in a dark integrated state, and the information code C is difficult to extract. On the other hand, when imaging is performed while irradiating illumination light in the second wavelength band as in a reading device 40 described later, the bright module area A4 and the background area A2 are lightened as shown in FIG. Inverted, the area A3 of the dark color module can be imaged in the dark color, so that the information code C can be extracted.

(Information code reader)
FIG. 3 is a block diagram schematically illustrating a main part of an information code reading device used in the information code reading system of FIG. 4A is an explanatory diagram for explaining a captured image obtained by capturing the information code forming medium of FIG. 2 with a general reading device, and FIG. 4B is a diagram illustrating the information code forming medium of FIG. It is explanatory drawing explaining the picked-up image imaged with the reader.

  The reading device 40 corresponds to an example of an “optical information reading device”, and has a function of imaging and reading an information code such as a QR code (registered trademark). The reading device 40 includes a control unit 41 including a CPU and the like, an imaging unit 42 configured as a camera including a light receiving sensor (for example, a C-MOS area sensor, a CCD area sensor, and the like), and illumination light in a first wavelength band. A first illumination light source 43 for irradiation, a second illumination light source 44 for irradiation with illumination light in the second wavelength band, a storage unit 45 including storage means such as a ROM, a RAM, and a nonvolatile memory are provided. Further, the reading device 40 is provided with a display unit 46 including a liquid crystal display, an operation unit 47 including various operation keys, and the like.

  The imaging unit 42 is disposed between the pair of first illumination light sources 43a and 43b, and forms an image of the reflected light from the information code forming medium 10 on the light receiving surface of the light receiving sensor 42a to form an image of the information code forming medium 10. It works to generate data. The light receiving sensor 42a is configured to receive reflected light that is irradiated and reflected on the medium 10. For example, the light receiving sensor 42a is a line sensor in which light receiving elements that are solid-state imaging elements such as C-MOS and CCD are arranged one-dimensionally, Or the area sensor arranged in two dimensions corresponds to this. The imaging lens 42c is constituted by, for example, a lens barrel and a plurality of condensing lenses accommodated in the lens barrel, and forms an image of the information code C on the light receiving surface of the light receiving sensor 42a. Is functioning. The image signal output from the light receiving sensor 42a of the optical system is stored in, for example, an image data storage area of the storage unit 45.

  In the present embodiment, the imaging unit 42 corresponds to an example of an imaging unit, and functions to image the information code forming medium 10 irradiated with illumination light by the illumination unit. The code forming medium 10 functions to image the information code forming medium 10 in a state in which illumination light of the first wavelength band and the second wavelength band is irradiated.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the 1st illumination light source 43 and the 2nd illumination light source 44 which comprise an illumination light source (illumination optical system) are each provided in the both sides which pinched | interposed the imaging part 42 (light reception optical system), for example. A pair of 1st illumination light sources 43a and 43b are comprised by LED which irradiates visible light with a wavelength of 380 nm-750 nm, for example. Moreover, the 2nd illumination light sources 44a and 44b arrange | positioned in a pair are comprised by LED which irradiates infrared light with a wavelength of 750 nm or more. In the present embodiment, the number of light sources of the second illumination light source 44 (second illumination light irradiation means) is larger than the number of light sources of the first illumination light source 43 (first illumination light irradiation means).

  In the present embodiment, the first illumination light source 43 and the second illumination light source 44 correspond to an example of illumination means. The first illumination light source 43 corresponds to an example of a first illumination light irradiation unit, and functions to irradiate the information code forming medium 10 with illumination light in the first wavelength band. The second illumination light source 44 corresponds to an example of second illumination light irradiating means and functions to irradiate the information code forming medium 10 with illumination light in the second wavelength band.

  The storage unit 45 is a semiconductor memory device, and corresponds to, for example, a RAM (DRAM, SRAM, etc.) or a ROM (EPROM, EEPROM, etc.). In addition to the above-described image data storage area, the RAM of the storage unit 45 is configured to be able to secure a work area and a reading condition table used by the control unit 41 in each processing such as arithmetic operation and logical operation. Yes. The ROM stores in advance a predetermined program that can execute various processes and the like, and a system program that can control each hardware such as the illumination light source and the light receiving sensor 42a.

  The control unit 41 includes a microcomputer that can control the entire reading device 40, and includes a CPU, a system bus, an input / output interface, and the like, and has an information processing function. In the present embodiment, the control unit 41 corresponds to an example of a decoding unit, and functions to extract and decode the information code C from the image of the information code forming medium 10 imaged by the imaging unit 42. Specifically, in the image of the information code forming medium 10 imaged by the imaging unit 42, the areas of the light color module and the dark color module are extracted by distinguishing and detecting the inversion area and the non-inversion area, and the extraction result is It functions to decode the information code C based on it.

(Method for manufacturing information code forming medium)
Next, a method for manufacturing the information code forming medium 10 will be described.
Various specific configurations of the inversion region and the non-inversion region in the information code forming medium 10 can be considered. In the following, a configuration as shown in FIG. Will be described. In the example of FIG. 7B, the design of characters, figures, symbols, patterns and the like on the information code forming medium 10 is formed by, for example, a first ink and a second ink. The inversion area is an area formed by the first ink D1, and the non-inversion area is an area formed by the second ink D2, or the first ink D1 and the second ink D2. Is configured as an overlapping area.

  Of these, the first ink D1 corresponds to an example of a first color developing medium, and exhibits dark color reflection characteristics when irradiated with light in the first wavelength band, and when irradiated with light in the second wavelength band. Is functioning to show light color reflection characteristics. That is, when light in the second wavelength band is irradiated, the color is inverted from dark to light. Specifically, it is configured as an infrared reactive ink, and is configured to be substantially invisible or bright when irradiated with infrared light having a wavelength of 750 nm or more. In the present embodiment, characters, figures, symbols, patterns, and the like are formed with the first ink and the second ink on a light-colored (white, yellow, etc.) formation target object (paper, etc.).

  The second ink corresponds to an example of a second coloring medium, and exhibits a dark color reflection characteristic when irradiated with light in the first wavelength band, and dark color when irradiated with light in the second wavelength band. It functions to show the reflection characteristics. Specifically, it is configured as a normal ink (ink that is not inverted by infrared rays), and is dark when irradiated with visible light with a wavelength of 380 nm to 750 nm or with infrared light with a wavelength of 750 nm or more. (For example, black, blue, indigo, etc.).

  In the example of FIG. 7B, the dark color module (dark color cell) of the information code C is formed by the second ink D2 (second coloring medium), and thus the dark color formed by the second ink D2. The entire area of the module is formed so as to be overlapped in the first ink formation area in a configuration surrounded by the formation area of the first ink D1 (first coloring medium).

  7B can be manufactured in the flow as shown in FIG. 6, for example. In this method, a paper medium P such as roll paper is prepared, and the paper medium P is shown in FIG. As shown in the middle part of FIG. 6, a first ink region A1 having a longitudinal shape formed by the first ink D1 is formed. Then, after such a first ink area A1 is formed, a dark color module area A3 is formed by the second ink D2 from above the first ink area A1 at the positions of the areas C1 and C2 in FIG. As shown in the lower part of FIG. 6, even if the dark color module area is formed on the first ink area A1, the dark color module area is buried in the first ink area A1.

  In this configuration, the area A3 of the dark color module (dark color cell) is configured by superimposing the second ink D2 (second color development medium) and the first ink D1, and the area A4 of the light color module (light color cell). Is formed only by the first ink D1. The background area A1 around the information code C is also composed of the first ink D1. In this case, the information B2 to B7 is formed by, for example, the second ink D2.

  When a figure is formed as shown in FIG. 6, a paper medium P configured as thermal paper is prepared, and the paper medium P is formed by the first ink D1 as shown in the middle of FIG. A longitudinal first ink region A1 is formed. And after forming such 1st ink area | region A1, dark color module area | region A3 is formed by heat sensitivity in the position of area | region C1, C2 of FIG.

  Further, instead of FIG. 6, the information code forming medium 10 may be manufactured according to the flow shown in FIG. In this method, a paper medium P such as roll paper is prepared, and a dark color module area A3 is formed on the paper medium P by the second ink D2 as shown in the middle of FIG. The first ink D1 forms a longitudinal first ink region so as to cover the second ink D2 constituting the dark color module as a whole. By forming the dark module area and the first ink area so as to overlap each other, the dark module area is buried in the first ink area as shown in the lower part of FIG.

  Moreover, you may make it like FIG. In the example of FIG. 9, the information code C is partially configured as a private code. This partially private code includes a private area in which encrypted data encrypted based on a predetermined encryption key is recorded, and a public area in which public data not encrypted with the encryption key is recorded. It is configured so that decryption can be performed only when a decryption key corresponding to the encryption key exists in the reader 40. The public area of this partially private code is configured as an area that can be read even by a reader that does not have a decryption key, and includes various disclosed data that can be disclosed to a third party, for example. be able to.

  Some areas are private areas (areas that can be read on the condition that a decryption key corresponding to the encryption key is obtained), and other areas are public areas (can be read without using the decryption key corresponding to the encryption key) As a specific method for generating a partially private code and a specific structure of the partially private code to be generated, for example, the techniques disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication Nos. 2009-9547 and 2008-299422 are used. It can be used suitably. In this case, the “disclosure code” recorded in the public area can be configured by encoding each disclosure data according to the JIS basic specification (JISX0510: 2004). The “secret code” is obtained by encoding each encrypted data (encrypted data obtained by encrypting important data such as personal information) according to JIS basic specifications (JISX0510: 2004).

  In the methods disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Nos. 2009-9547 and 2008-299422, the secret code recorded in the non-public area includes the decryption key and the decryption key check data that can specify the decryption key. The decryption key and the decryption key check data may not be included in the private area. In addition, the method for generating a partially private code and the specific configuration of the partially private code to be generated are not limited to this example. Encrypted data is recorded in some areas and non-encrypted in other areas. Any method other than the methods described in these publications may be used as long as it is a method capable of generating a two-dimensional code in which digitized data is recorded.

  In the example of FIG. 9, a second information code Ca in which data such as warehousing time is recorded is formed separately from the information code C (partially private code) buried in the background area A2. In this configuration, for example, if it is a condition for using the second information code Ca that the information code C (partially private code) is decoded, even if the second information code Ca is illegally copied Unless the information code C is decoded, it cannot be used, and illegal use can be effectively prevented.

(Specific example of information code reading system)
Next, a specific example of the information code reading system 1 will be described.
In FIG. 10, the example which applied the information code reading system 1 to the parking lot system 100 is shown. In this example, the parking lot includes an entrance gate 103, a ticket issuing machine 101, a parking space, a passage, a fence, an exit gate 104, a checkout machine 102, and the like.

  The ticket issuing machine 101 is provided with a forming apparatus 30 that has the configuration shown in FIG. 5 and can form the information code forming medium 10 by any of the methods shown in FIGS. Further, the checkout machine 102 is provided with a reading device 40 configured as shown in FIGS. In this example, when the parking lot user issues a parking ticket with the ticket issuing machine 101 of the entrance gate, the information code forming medium 10 is configured as described above, in which the parking time information is recorded in the information code C described above. Issue a parking ticket.

  When the user leaves the parking lot, the settlement process is performed according to the flow shown in FIG. In this process, standby processing is performed until a parking ticket is inserted from an insertion port (not shown) (S1), and when the insertion is detected, the information code C recorded on the parking ticket is imaged. Here, as described above, the parking ticket (information code forming medium 10) is imaged in a state where the illumination light of the first wavelength band and the second wavelength band is irradiated. Then, the information code C is decoded in a state where the inversion area is inverted and the dark color module configured as the non-inversion area is raised (S3). If the decoding of the information code C is successful, the process proceeds to Yes in S4, and if it is unsuccessful, the process proceeds to No in S4.

  In addition, when decoding fails and it progresses to No in S4, imaging of a parking ticket (information code formation medium 10) is performed again (S5), and decoding of an information code is tried again (S6). If the decryption is successful in S6, the process proceeds to Yes in S7. If the decryption is unsuccessful, the process proceeds to No in S7. Such processes of S5 to S7 are repeated until the decoding failure reaches the specified number of times, and when the decoding failure reaches the specified number of times, the process proceeds to Yes in S8, and the process ends.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S4 or S7 that the decoding is successful, the input data (data read from the information code C) is written (S10), and the fee is settled. In the information code C, for example, the warehousing time is recorded. In S11, a fee corresponding to the warehousing time is calculated, and in S12, the calculated fee is displayed. In S13, it is confirmed whether or not an amount corresponding to the display fee has been input, and when the fee is settled, the exit gate is opened (S14).

(Main effects of the first embodiment)
In the information code reading system 1 according to the present embodiment, the light color module and the dark color module in the information code portion of the information code forming medium 10 in the normal time when the light of the first wavelength band (that is, visible light) is irradiated. Will show the same kind of reflection characteristics. Thereby, for example, when a person sees the vicinity of the information code C, the information code portion is visually recognized as a dark color region or a light color region as a whole. Even if the information code portion is read by a general reading device, the information code portion is recognized as a dark color region or a light color region as a whole only by applying visible light, and thus cannot be read. Therefore, at the normal time, it is difficult to grasp the existence of the information code C as described above, and it is difficult for the user to perform the reading operation itself. Further, even if an attempt is made to read the information code by a general reading device, the information code cannot be read, so that the security of the information code can be improved more reliably.
On the other hand, since the information code reading device 40 images the information code forming medium 10 in a state in which the illumination light of the second wavelength band is irradiated to the information code forming medium 10, in the captured image, the inversion region Is imaged with the image inverted, and the non-inverted region is imaged without being inverted. That is, in the captured code image, one of the light color module and the dark color module is inverted and the other is not inverted. Therefore, the area of the light color module and the area of the dark color module are clearly distinguished. can do. Furthermore, since the imaging is performed by irradiating the illumination light of the first wavelength band together with the illumination light of the second wavelength band, the inverted image of the inversion region and the non-inversion image of the non-inversion region are captured more clearly. It will be.
And the decoding means extracts the areas of the light color module and the dark color module by distinguishing and detecting the inversion area and the non-inversion area in the image of the information code forming medium 10, and information based on the extraction result The code is decoded, and according to this configuration, the information code can be decoded more reliably.

  Further, the number of light sources of the second illumination light source 44 (second illumination light irradiation means) is larger than the number of light sources of the first illumination light source (first illumination light irradiation means). According to this configuration, the inversion region can be inverted more reliably, and the accuracy of reading the information code C can be further improved.

Further, in the information code forming medium 10, the inversion region shows a dark color reflection characteristic when irradiated with light in the first wavelength band, and a light color reflection characteristic when irradiated with light in the second wavelength band. The non-inverted region is a region that exhibits dark reflection characteristics when irradiated with light in the first wavelength band and a region that exhibits dark reflection characteristics when irradiated with light in the second wavelength band. ing. In the information code C formed on the information code forming medium 10, the dark module area is a non-inverted area and the bright module is an inverted area.
In this configuration, during normal irradiation with light in the first wavelength band (ie, visible light), the light color module and the dark color module are both dark color reflection characteristics in the information code C portion of the information code forming medium 10. Will be shown. That is, since the information code portion is visually recognized as a dark color region as a whole, it is difficult to specify that the information code is arranged at the position.
On the other hand, the captured code image has a light color configuration in which the light color module is inverted and a dark color configuration in which the dark color module is not inverted, so that the dark color module can be made more prominent. Therefore, it is easy to clarify the information code at the time of reading, and as a result, reading can be performed more reliably.

  Further, in the information code forming medium 10, a background area A2 composed of an inversion area or a non-inversion area is formed around the formation areas C1 and C2 of the information code C in a configuration continuous with the formation areas C1 and C2. In this configuration, during normal times when the illumination light of the second wavelength band is not irradiated, the information code formation areas C1 and C2 and the background area A2 exhibit the same type of reflection characteristics, and the information code formation area and the background Since the area is visually recognized as an integral part, it is more difficult to specify the position of the information code C. Therefore, security can be further improved.

  In some examples, the information code forming medium 10 is configured as thermal paper, the information code C is formed on the thermal paper by heat, and the background area is formed by an ink medium. In this configuration, since the information code C is configured by heat, the information code C can be obscured or erased over time after the information code C is formed. Therefore, the content of the information code C becomes more difficult to grasp as time passes, which is more advantageous in terms of security.

In some examples, the information code forming medium 10 exhibits a dark color reflection characteristic when irradiated with light of the first wavelength band, and reflects light color when irradiated with light of the second wavelength band. A first color-developing medium exhibiting characteristics, and a second color-developing medium exhibiting dark color reflection characteristics when irradiated with light of the first wavelength band and exhibiting dark color reflection characteristics when irradiated with light of the second wavelength band And are attached.
Further, the dark color module of the information code C is formed by the second color developing medium, and the entire area of the dark color module formed by the second color developing medium is surrounded by the first color forming medium forming area. It is formed so as to overlap in the medium.
In this configuration, since the information code C formation areas C1 and C2 are entirely buried in the first color forming medium formation area, it is more difficult to grasp the position of the information code.

  In some examples, the information code C formed on the information code forming medium 10 is encrypted with a secret area in which encrypted data encrypted based on a predetermined encryption key is recorded, and the encryption key. It is configured as a partially private code having a public area in which unpublished public data is recorded. In this configuration, it is possible to improve the security by making it difficult to grasp the position of the information code in the normal state, and it is also possible to improve the confidentiality of the data of the information code itself. Therefore, data leakage from the information code can be surely prevented, and security is ensured.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, a second embodiment will be described.
FIG. 12A is an explanatory diagram for schematically explaining an example of an information code forming medium used in the information code reading system of the second embodiment, and FIG. 12B is an information code of FIG. It is explanatory drawing explaining the picked-up image which imaged the formation medium with the reader of FIG. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a specific example in which the information code reading system of the second embodiment is applied to a parking lot management system. FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating the electrical configuration of the information code reading system of the second embodiment. FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram schematically illustrating an example of an information code forming medium used in another embodiment.

  The configuration of the second embodiment includes all the features of the first embodiment and further adds a new configuration. Therefore, about the structure similar to 1st Embodiment, the code | symbol same as 1st Embodiment is attached | subjected and detailed description is abbreviate | omitted. Moreover, in the following description, the same part as 1st Embodiment shall be demonstrated with reference to FIGS. 1-11 suitably. The information code forming medium used in this embodiment is the same as that shown in FIG. 9, and this information code forming medium is shown in detail in FIG. Moreover, about the specific example which applied the information code reading system to the parking lot management system, a new structure (detection sensor 201) is added to the structure of FIG. 11, and this additional structure is shown in FIGS. Show.

  The information code forming medium 10 shown in FIG. 12A is the same as that shown in FIG. 2 except for the second information code Ca. Similarly to FIG. 2, the information code forming medium C1 and C2 in which the information code C is formed, In the normal state where the background region A2 made up of characters, figures, symbols, patterns, etc. overlaps and visible light is dominant, the regions C1 and C2 of the information code C are as shown in FIG. The display mode is integrated with the background area A2, and it is difficult to grasp only the information code C. In FIG. 1 (A) 2, the positions of the information code forming areas C <b> 1 and C <b> 2 are conceptually indicated by alternate long and short dash lines.

  Also in the information code forming medium 10, the areas B1 to B7 to which characters, figures, symbols, patterns, and the like are attached are divided into inverted areas and non-inverted areas. The inversion region shows dark reflection characteristics when irradiated with light in the first wavelength band including at least the visible light region, and when irradiated with light in the second wavelength band having a wavelength different from that of the first wavelength band. It is configured to show light color reflection characteristics. The non-inverted region is configured to exhibit a dark color reflection characteristic when irradiated with light in the first wavelength band and to exhibit a dark color reflection characteristic when irradiated with light in the second wavelength band. .

  In the information code C formed on the information code forming medium 10, the dark color module area A3 is a non-inverted area, and the bright color module area A4 is an inverted area. Further, in the information code forming medium 10, a background area A2 composed of an inversion area is formed around the formation areas C1 and C2 of the information code C in a configuration continuous with the formation areas C1 and C2. Since it is configured in this way, in a general reading device that irradiates visible light as illumination light, as in FIG. 12A, the area of the light color module (see FIG. 12B), the dark color module The area A3 (see FIG. 12B) and the background area A2 are all captured in a dark color integrated state, and the information code C becomes difficult to extract. On the other hand, in the case of imaging while irradiating illumination light in the second wavelength band as in the above-described reading device 40, the bright color module area A4 and the background area A2 are lightened as shown in FIG. Inverted, the area A3 of the dark color module can be imaged in the dark color, so that the information code C can be extracted.

On the other hand, the second information code Ca formed in a different area from the information code C has a configuration in which the light module A5 and the dark module A6 are combined as shown in FIG. The light module A5 of the information code Ca shows a light color reflection characteristic when irradiated with light of the first wavelength band such as visible light, and the dark module A6 is irradiated with light of the first wavelength band. Are configured to exhibit dark color reflection characteristics. Further, the background area A7 around the second information code Ca shows a light color reflection characteristic when irradiated with light of the first wavelength band. Since it is configured in this manner, the user can visually recognize the presence and position of the second information code Ca in a normal environment where visible light is irradiated. When light of one wavelength band is irradiated as illumination light (that is, when illumination light is irradiated from the first illumination light source 43), the bright module and the dark module are imaged in a clearly distinguished state, It becomes possible to decipher.
In the information code forming medium 10 of FIG. 12, the regions B2 to B7 have the same configuration as in the first embodiment, and thus detailed description thereof is omitted.

  Furthermore, the information code reader 40 used in the present embodiment is based on the information code forming medium 10 as described above, and at least at a predetermined time, the first illumination light source 43 (first illumination light irradiation means) performs the first. The illumination light irradiation and the second illumination light irradiation by the second illumination light source 44 (second illumination light irradiation means) are performed simultaneously. When the information code forming medium 10 is simultaneously irradiated with the illumination light (such as visible light) in the first wavelength band and the illumination light (such as infrared light) in the second wavelength band at the same time, the imaging unit 42 (imaging means) images the information code forming medium 10, extracts both the information code C and the second information code Ca from the imaged information code forming medium 10, and decodes both types of codes doing. Hereinafter, such imaging and decoding processing will be described by taking a parking lot system 100 as shown in FIG. 13 as an example.

  The parking lot system 100 shown in FIG. 13 includes all the features of the parking lot system 100 of the first embodiment. In the parking lot, the entrance gate 103, the ticket issuing machine 101, the parking space, the passage, the fence, the exit gate 104, the checkout. A machine 102 and the like are provided. Further, the ticket issuing machine 101 is provided with a forming apparatus 30 which has a configuration as shown in FIG. 5 and can form the information code forming medium 10 by the method shown in FIG. Further, the checkout machine 102 is provided with a reading device 40 configured as shown in FIG.

  Also in this example, when the parking lot user issues a parking ticket with the ticket issuing machine 101 of the entrance gate, the information code forming medium 10 (FIG. 12) described above is configured with information such as parking time recorded in the information code C. Issue a parking ticket. On the other hand, when the user leaves the parking lot, the payment process is performed in the same flow as in FIG.

  Even in the checkout process performed in the parking lot system 100, as shown in FIG. 11, the information code reader 40 waits until the parking ticket (information code forming medium 10) is detected, and the information code forming medium 10 is detected. After that, the processing after S2 is performed.

The information code reading device 40 shown in FIG. 13 and FIG. 14 has a configuration that further embodies the information code reading device 40 (FIG. 1 and the like) of the first embodiment, and a parking ticket (information code forming medium 10). A detection sensor 201 is provided for detection. The detection sensor 201 is configured, for example, as a sensor that can detect a state in which the user tries to read the information code forming medium 10 by the information code reading device 40 or a state in which the user approaches the information code reading device 40. For example, a proximity sensor that detects a state in which the user has caused the information code forming medium 10 to approach the payment machine or a state in which the information code forming medium 10 is inserted into the payment machine can be suitably used. The detection sensor 201 outputs a detection signal to the control unit 41 when the information code forming medium 10 is detected. At this time, the control unit 41 detects that the information code forming medium 10 is close to the information code reading device 40. Recognize that it exists at a position (detectable by the detection sensor 201).
In the present embodiment, the detection sensor 201 and the control unit 41 correspond to an example of “recognition means” and function to recognize the information code forming medium 10.

  After the parking ticket (information code forming medium 10) is recognized in the process of S1, the imaging process of S2 is performed. In the imaging processing of the present embodiment, the first illumination light source 43 and the second illumination light source 44 are operated at the same time, and irradiation with visible light (first illumination light) and irradiation with infrared light (second illumination light) are performed. Simultaneously for a certain period. Then, the information code forming medium 10 is irradiated with the illumination light (eg, visible light) in the first wavelength band and the illumination light (eg, infrared light) in the second wavelength band at the same time. The medium 10 is imaged by the imaging unit 42 (S2).

  Thereafter, in S3, both the information code C and the second information code Ca are extracted from the image of the information code forming medium 10 thus imaged, and both types of codes are decoded. In the present embodiment, both the dark color module A3 of the information code C and the dark module A6 of the second information code Ca are configured by, for example, a dark color (black) that absorbs infrared light and is irradiated with infrared light. Even if it is, even if it is a case where visible light is irradiated, it does not become a transparent display mode, but is imaged clearly as a dark color (black etc.). In addition, the light color module A4 of the information code C and the background area A2 adjacent to the periphery of the information code C are each configured by a dark color (black) that does not absorb infrared light, and infrared light as shown in FIG. When the image is taken by irradiating with light, the display mode is transparent, and the image is inverted to a bright color. In other words, in the information code forming medium 10, only the area of the dark color module A3 in the vicinity of the information code C is a dark color (black) that absorbs infrared, and the dark color (black) that does not absorb infrared so as to cover this area. Therefore, when imaging is performed by irradiating infrared light, a dark color (black) region that does not absorb infrared light is transparent, and a dark color (black) region that absorbs infrared light (that is, information code C). Only the dark color module A3) is imaged so as to emerge. In the present embodiment, the light module A5 of the second information code Ca and the background area A7 are formed of, for example, a light color (white or the like) that does not absorb infrared light.

  In the present embodiment, the dark module A3 of the information code C and the dark module A6 of the second information code Ca in the information code forming medium 10 are made of the same ink (ink of dark color (black, etc.) that absorbs infrared light). Therefore, the area of the dark color module A3 and the darkness can be obtained even when the illumination light of the second wavelength band (infrared light in this case) is irradiated as well as the illumination light of the first wavelength band (visible light or the like). The area of the module A6 is imaged as a clear dark color (black or the like) without inversion.

(Main effects of the second embodiment)
The configuration of the second embodiment can achieve the same effects as the first embodiment.
Further, in the configuration of the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12, a code that requires irradiation light (infrared light) in the second wavelength band at the time of reading is read by the information code reader 1 as shown in FIG. The necessary information code C) and a code (second information code C2) that can be read by a general reader can be used together on the same information code forming medium 10, and two types of codes having different characteristics can be used. The convenience of the information code forming medium 10 can be improved by using. For example, information with high importance or confidentiality is recorded in one information code C, information with low importance is recorded in the other second information code C2, and reading of one information code C is normal. It is possible to adopt a method such that only the second information code C2 can be handled by a facility other than the regular facility so that it can be performed only by the facility (equipment provided with the information code reader 1 as shown in FIG. 1). .

  Further, in the configuration in which the convenience is enhanced by the two types of codes having different reflection modes as described above, both the images of both codes can be decoded (that is, the light and dark pattern is clarified). Since it can be acquired at the same time, the code reading time can be effectively shortened compared to a configuration in which images of the respective codes are acquired with a time difference.

In the present embodiment, the information code reader 1 is provided with recognition means capable of recognizing the information code forming medium 10, and when the recognition means recognizes the information code forming medium 10, at least the second wavelength. It is configured to irradiate the band illumination light (infrared light).
In this configuration, illumination light in the second wavelength band (infrared light) can be emitted triggered by the recognition of the information code forming medium 10 by the recognition means. Power saving can be effectively achieved without irradiation.
On the other hand, in the above configuration, the information code C cannot be decoded unless the illumination light (infrared light) in the second wavelength band is irradiated, and the illumination light (infrared light) in the second wavelength band can be read quickly. However, in this embodiment, illumination light (infrared light) in the second wavelength band is irradiated according to the timing at which the information code forming medium 10 to which the information code C is attached is recognized. Thus, it is possible to prepare a reading system after the recognition.

  For example, when the background (area A2) is configured in black as shown in FIG. 12A and the information code C is arranged so as to be buried in the background, it cannot be read with general visible light, It is necessary to apply illumination light (infrared light) in the second wavelength band. However, since the information code C is buried in the background before irradiation with illumination light (infrared light) in the second wavelength band, a specific pattern for recognizing the presence of the information code C (FIG. 12). In the case of such a QR code (registered trademark), there is a problem that the position of the finder pattern) is not known and it is not possible to confirm whether or not the information code C is in the imaging range. On the other hand, in this embodiment, since the presence of the information code forming medium 10 is recognized and illumination light (infrared light) in the second wavelength band is emitted, there is a possibility that the information code C exists in the imaging range. It is possible to irradiate illumination light (infrared light) in the second wavelength band aiming at a high period. Therefore, it is possible to complete the reading earlier while saving power, and the information code C is not detected (the situation where the information code C is not decoded even though it exists in the imaging range). Is less likely to occur.

  In the present embodiment, in the information code forming medium 10, the dark color pattern of the information code C and the dark color pattern of the second information code C2 are formed of the same ink. According to this configuration, it is possible to reduce the ink type as compared with the case where each code is printed with different inks, and it is possible to reduce the manufacturing cost and the manufacturing process.

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

  In the said embodiment, although the parking ticket was illustrated as an example of an information code formation medium, it is not restricted to such an example. For example, the configuration of the above embodiment can be suitably applied to those requiring security such as mounts of various certificates such as resident cards and seal certificates, gift certificates, regional promotion tickets, admission tickets, and various tickets. .

In the above embodiment, an example of the design of the background region has been shown, but the background region can have various shapes such as a character, a figure, a symbol, a pattern, or a combination thereof. For example, FIG. 15 shows an example of an information code forming medium having such characteristics, and a configuration in which the information code C is embedded in the area of the design portion De (character “D” in FIG. 15). I am doing. That is, the same information code C as in the first and second embodiments is partially arranged in the inner area of the character “D”, and in other areas (areas other than the information code C in the inner area of the character “D”). Is provided with a background area A2 having the same characteristics as the background area A2 of the first and second embodiments. Even in this configuration, when light in the first wavelength band (visible light or the like) is irradiated, the information code C is imaged in the background region A2 as shown in FIG. 15A, and light in the second wavelength band ( 15B, the light color module A4 of the information code C and the background area A2 are transparent as shown in FIG. 15B, and the area of the dark color module A3 of the information code C is changed. The image is taken in a state clearly distinguished from other regions.
In this way, by providing design characteristics to the background region, the information code C formation region is the same type as the design region in the design region in normal times when illumination light (infrared light) in the second wavelength band is not irradiated. Thus, the information code formation region is visually recognized as a part of the design region. Therefore, it becomes more difficult to specify the position of the information code, and the security can be further improved. Further, since it is not necessary to provide the information code C area separately from the design area, it is easy to secure a large space in the design area, and the problem that the information code C hinders the design of the design area is less likely to occur.

  In the above embodiment and other embodiments, the wavelength band of infrared light having a wavelength of 750 nm or more is exemplified as the illumination light in the second wavelength band, but ultraviolet light having a wavelength of 380 nm or less is used as the illumination light in the second wavelength band. Also good. In this case, the inversion region may be configured as a region that inverts when irradiated with ultraviolet light. In this case, for example, an ultraviolet reaction ink may be used as the first ink instead of the infrared reaction ink, thereby forming an inversion region.

In the above embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, the configuration in which most of the information code forming medium is configured by a light color (white color) region and a dark background region A2 is provided in a part thereof is illustrated. The background area A2 shown in FIG. 2 may be configured over substantially the entire one surface of the information code forming medium 10. For example, in the configuration of FIG. 2, the dark color region A2 can be configured to spread over substantially the entire medium 10 (for example, a configuration as a black card or the like). ... B7 may be composed of bright characters and figures. According to this configuration, it is easy to secure a large area where the information code C can be arranged on one side of the information code forming medium 10, and the degree of freedom of arrangement of the information code is increased.
In addition, when the background area around the information code C is spread over substantially the entire one surface of the information code forming medium and is configured as a dark color area, the non-inverted area may be used instead of the inverted area. In this case, the information code C may be configured as a light / dark inversion code, a portion to be configured as a light color module may be configured as a non-inversion region, and a portion to be configured as a dark color module may be set as an inversion region. As a result, when reading by irradiating the second illumination light, a portion (inverted region) that should be configured as a dark color module from the dark background that spreads over the entire medium floats as a light color region of light and dark inversion, and the light color module Since the portion to be configured as a surface is raised as a dark-colored region of light-dark reversal, reading can be performed satisfactorily.

  In the above-described embodiment, an example in which the information code C is partially configured as a private code has been described. However, the information code C may be a known information code other than this. For example, a two-dimensional code such as a QR code (registered trademark), a data matrix code, or a maxi code may be used.

  The second information code Ca used in FIG. 9 of the first embodiment and the second embodiment may be a known information code other than the type shown in FIG. For example, it may be a one-dimensional barcode, or a two-dimensional code such as a QR code (registered trademark), a data matrix code, or a maxi code, which is different from that shown in FIG. The second information code Ca may be a partially private code similar to the information code C used in the first embodiment. In any case, the configuration and control method of the second embodiment can be applied.

In the second embodiment, a method of detecting the information code forming medium 10 itself by the detection sensor 201 (FIG. 14) is exemplified as a method for recognizing the information code forming medium. However, the information code forming medium 10 can be imaged. A method for detecting an event having a high probability may be used. For example, in the parking lot system 100 as shown in FIG. 13, the detection sensor 201 is configured as a “vehicle detection sensor”, and a detection signal is output from the detection sensor 201 when the vehicle approaches within a certain distance from the detection sensor 201. May be configured so that illumination light (infrared light) in the second wavelength band is irradiated during such detection.
In such a parking system 100, it is assumed that payment is made while riding a car, and when the vehicle approaches the payment machine, an information code forming medium configured as a parking ticket may be presented and enter the imaging range. high. Therefore, if such an approach of the vehicle is detected and the illumination light (infrared light) in the second wavelength band is irradiated, the preparation for reading is promptly advanced at the time of parking ticket settlement while saving power. The checkout process can be performed quickly without stopping the checkout flow as much as possible. In preparation for reading, not only the illumination of the second wavelength band illumination light (infrared light) but also other devices are driven (for example, driving a roller for drawing a parking ticket from an insertion slot). May be.
Further, the present invention is not limited to such a configuration. For example, the detection sensor 201 is configured as a “human sensor”, and the second illumination light is emitted when a person approaches the detection sensor 201 within a certain range. It is good also as a structure.

  In the second embodiment, the configuration in which the detection sensor 201 is provided inside the information code reader 1 as illustrated in FIG. 14 is illustrated. However, the information is obtained by the image captured by the imaging unit 42 without using a dedicated sensor. The presence of the code forming medium 10 may be recognized. For example, when the imaging unit 42 is configured to continuously capture an image every predetermined short time and the captured image has a predetermined change (for example, the variation in the amount of received light of the entire image is equal to or greater than a certain value). The information code forming medium 10 is present when the received light amount of a part of the pixels decreases by a certain value or more, and the illumination light (infrared light) in the second wavelength band is recognized at this time. ) May be irradiated.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Information code reading system 10 ... Information code formation medium 40 ... Information code reading device 41 ... Control part (decoding means)
42 ... Imaging unit (imaging means)
43 ... 1st illumination light source (illumination means, 1st illumination light irradiation means)
44 ... 2nd illumination light source (illumination means, 2nd illumination light irradiation means)
A2 ... Background area (inversion area)
A3: Dark module area (non-inverted area)
A4 ... Bright module area (reversal area)
C ... Information code Ca ... Second information code D1 ... First coloring medium D2 ... Second coloring medium

Claims (20)

An information code forming medium having a light color module and a dark color module and having an information code formed of a two-dimensional code having a specific pattern of a fixed shape for recognizing the presence of the code;
Illumination means for illuminating illumination light, imaging means for imaging the information code forming medium irradiated with illumination light by the illumination means, and the information code from the image of the information code forming medium imaged by the imaging means An information code reader comprising: a decoding means for extracting and decoding;
An information code reading system comprising:
The information code forming medium is:
When the light of the first wavelength band including at least the visible light region is irradiated, the reflection characteristic of the dark color is exhibited, and when the light of the second wavelength band having a wavelength different from the first wavelength band is irradiated, An inversion region showing reflection characteristics and a non-inversion region showing dark reflection characteristics when irradiated with light in the first wavelength band and non-inversion regions showing dark reflection characteristics when irradiated with light in the second wavelength band Of the light code module and the dark color module of the information code, the dark color module area is the non-inverted area, and the bright color module area is the inverted area. And a display state in which the entire area of the dark color module and the entire area of the light color module are integrated with the same dark color in the entire area of the information code when the light of the first wavelength band is irradiated. And the configuration
The illumination means includes second illumination light irradiation means capable of irradiating the information code forming medium with illumination light of the second wavelength band,
The imaging means is configured to irradiate the illumination light of the first wavelength band and the second wavelength band while the illumination light of the first wavelength band and the second wavelength band is simultaneously irradiated onto the information code forming medium. The reflected light from each information code forming medium by irradiation is received by a common light receiving surface to image the information code forming medium,
The decoding means includes the inversion area and the non-inversion area in the image of the information code forming medium imaged by the imaging means in a state where illumination lights of the first wavelength band and the second wavelength band are simultaneously irradiated. An information code reading system, wherein the areas of the light color module and the dark color module are extracted by distinguishing and detecting the information code, and the information code is decoded based on the extraction result. An information code forming medium having a light color module and a dark color module and having an information code formed of a two-dimensional code having a specific pattern of a fixed shape for recognizing the presence of the code;
Illumination means for illuminating illumination light, imaging means for imaging the information code forming medium irradiated with illumination light by the illumination means, and the information code from the image of the information code forming medium imaged by the imaging means A decoding means for extracting and decoding, the information code reader comprising:
An information code reading system comprising:
The information code forming medium is:
Reflects in dark color when irradiated with light of at least a first wavelength band in the visible light region, and reflects light color when irradiated with light of a second wavelength band having a wavelength different from that of the first wavelength band. An inversion region exhibiting characteristics, and a non-inversion region exhibiting dark color reflection characteristics when irradiated with light in the first wavelength band, and exhibiting dark color reflection characteristics when irradiated with light in the second wavelength band; Formed,
Of the light color module and the dark color module of the information code, the area of the dark color module is the non-inversion area, the area of the light color module is the inversion area, and the first When the light in the wavelength band is irradiated, the entire area of the dark color module and the entire area of the light color module are integrated in the same dark color in the entire area of the information code.
The illumination means includes
First illumination light irradiation means capable of irradiating the information code forming medium with illumination light of the first wavelength band;
Second illumination light irradiation means capable of irradiating the information code forming medium with illumination light of the second wavelength band,
The imaging means is configured to irradiate the illumination light of the first wavelength band and the second wavelength band while the illumination light of the first wavelength band and the second wavelength band is simultaneously irradiated onto the information code forming medium. The reflected light from each information code forming medium by irradiation is received by a common light receiving surface to image the information code forming medium,
The decoding means includes the inversion area and the non-inversion area in the image of the information code forming medium imaged by the imaging means in a state where illumination lights of the first wavelength band and the second wavelength band are simultaneously irradiated. An information code reading system, wherein the areas of the light color module and the dark color module are extracted by distinguishing and detecting the information code, and the information code is decoded based on the extraction result.   3. The information code reading system according to claim 2, wherein the number of light sources of the second illumination light irradiation unit is larger than the number of light sources of the first illumination light irradiation unit. The information code forming medium is arranged with a second information code different from the information code,
The light module of the second information code exhibits a light color reflection characteristic when irradiated with light of the first wavelength band, and the dark module of the second information code is light of the first wavelength band Shows dark reflection characteristics when is irradiated,
At least at a predetermined time, irradiation of illumination light by the first illumination light irradiation means and irradiation of illumination light by the second illumination light irradiation means are performed simultaneously,
The imaging means images the information code forming medium in a state where illumination light of the first wavelength band and the second wavelength band is simultaneously irradiated to the information code forming medium,
The decoding means extracts both the information code and the second information code from an image of the information code forming medium imaged by the imaging means, and decodes both kinds of codes. The information code reading system according to claim 2 or claim 3.   5. The information code reading system according to claim 4, wherein, in the information code forming medium, the dark color module of the information code and the dark module of the second information code are formed of the same ink. .   2. The information code forming medium according to claim 1, wherein a background region including the inversion region or the non-inversion region is formed around the information code formation region so as to be continuous with the formation region. The information code reading system according to any one of claims 1 to 5. In the information code forming medium, a background region composed of the inversion region or the non-inversion region is formed around the information code formation region in a configuration that is continuous with the formation region.
The background area is configured to cover substantially the entire surface of one side of the information code forming medium, and the background area is configured as a dark color area. The information code reading system according to item.   7. The information code reading system according to claim 6, wherein the background area is configured as a design area having a predetermined shape including characters, figures, symbols, patterns, or combinations thereof.   When the light of the first wavelength band is irradiated, the entire area of the dark color module, the entire area of the light color module, and the background area are integrated in the same dark color. The information code reading system according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the information code reading system is provided.   The background region is provided adjacent to the outside of the specific pattern disposed on the outer edge of the information code, and when the light of the first wavelength band is irradiated, the region of the specific pattern and the background region The information code reading system according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the information codes are integrated in the same dark color.   The information code reading system according to any one of claims 6 to 10, wherein a plurality of the information codes are provided, and the background region is provided in a configuration surrounding the plurality of information codes. . The information code forming medium is thermal paper,
The information code is formed by heat in the thermal paper,
The information code reading system according to any one of claims 6 to 11, wherein the background region is formed of an ink medium. The information code forming medium is:
A first coloring medium that exhibits dark color reflection characteristics when irradiated with light of the first wavelength band, and that exhibits light color reflection characteristics when irradiated with light of the second wavelength band;
And a second coloring medium that exhibits dark reflection characteristics when irradiated with light in the first wavelength band and exhibits dark reflection characteristics when irradiated with light in the second wavelength band. ,
The dark color module of the information code is formed by the second coloring medium;
The entire area of the dark color module formed by the second coloring medium is formed so as to be overlapped in the first coloring medium in a configuration surrounded by the formation area of the first coloring medium. The information code reading system according to any one of claims 1 to 12.   The information code formed on the information code forming medium is a partially private code including at least a private area in which encrypted data encrypted based on a predetermined encryption key is recorded. The information code reading system according to any one of claims 1 to 13. The information code reader is
Recognizing means for recognizing the information code forming medium,
15. The illumination device according to claim 1, wherein, when the recognition device recognizes the information code forming medium, the illumination device irradiates at least illumination light of the second wavelength band. 15. The information code reading system described. Illumination means for illuminating an information code forming medium having a light color module and a dark color module and having an information code composed of a two-dimensional code having a fixed pattern for recognizing the presence of the code. When,
Imaging means for imaging the information code forming medium irradiated with illumination light by the illumination means;
Decoding means for extracting and decoding the information code from the image of the information code forming medium imaged by the imaging means;
An information code reader comprising:
The information code forming medium is:
When the light of the first wavelength band in the visible light region is irradiated, the reflection characteristic of dark color is exhibited, and when the light of the second wavelength band having a wavelength different from that of the first wavelength band is irradiated, the reflection characteristic of light color is exhibited. And a non-inverted region that exhibits dark color reflection characteristics when irradiated with light in the first wavelength band and a non-inverted region that exhibits dark color reflection characteristics when irradiated with light in the second wavelength band. Formed,
Of the light color module and the dark color module of the information code, the dark color module area is the non-inversion area, the light color module area is the inversion area, and the first wavelength. When the light of the band is irradiated, the entire area of the dark color module and the entire area of the light color module are integrated in the same dark color in the entire area of the information code.
The illumination means includes second illumination light irradiation means capable of irradiating the information code forming medium with illumination light of the second wavelength band,
The imaging means is configured to irradiate the illumination light of the first wavelength band and the second wavelength band while the illumination light of the first wavelength band and the second wavelength band is simultaneously irradiated onto the information code forming medium. The reflected light from each information code forming medium by irradiation is received by a common light receiving surface to image the information code forming medium,
The decoding means includes the inversion area and the non-inversion area in the image of the information code forming medium imaged by the imaging means in a state where illumination lights of the first wavelength band and the second wavelength band are simultaneously irradiated. An information code reading apparatus that extracts the areas of the light color module and the dark color module by distinguishing and detecting the information code and decodes the information code based on the extraction result.   2. The information code forming medium according to claim 1, wherein a background region including the inversion region or the non-inversion region is formed around the information code formation region so as to be continuous with the formation region. 16. The information code reading device according to 16. When the light of the first wavelength band is irradiated, the entire area of the dark color module, the entire area of the light color module, and the background area are integrated in the same dark color. The information code reader according to claim 17 , wherein the information code reader is provided. The background region is provided adjacent to the outside of the specific pattern disposed on the outer edge of the information code, and when the light of the first wavelength band is irradiated, the region of the specific pattern and the background region The information code reading device according to claim 17 or 18 , wherein the information codes are integrated in the same dark color in a display state. 20. The information code reader according to claim 17 , wherein a plurality of the information codes are provided, and the background area is provided so as to surround the plurality of information codes. .

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