JP6285111B2 - Information code display medium and information code reading system - Google Patents

Description

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

  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

  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.

  Furthermore, as a result of repeated security considerations, the inventor of the present application, as an example of adding security to the information code, “places an information code that can be easily read on the front side, It came to come up with a new configuration that “it is difficult to read from the front side normally and an information code that can be read only under specific conditions is arranged”. For example, when an information code is attached to the packaging of a product, an information code that can be easily read by a general consumer or the like is arranged on the front side of the packaging, and a specific person (for example, product manufacture) is placed on the back side. If the information code that can be read only by the seller or the seller is arranged, the information code on the front side and the information code on the back side can be used properly, and the security of the information code on the back side is relatively It can be a high level. In addition, it is not limited to this specific example, and the above idea is applied to various cases in which only the information code on one side is read under a normal environment and the information code on the back side is read only under special conditions. It is expected that However, such a concept is difficult to realize with a conventional code configuration and reading method used conventionally, and a configuration capable of smoothly realizing this concept is desired.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and can read only the information code on one side in a normal environment and can read the information code on the back side only under special conditions. Provide a simple configuration. Moreover, when reading the information code on the back side under special conditions, a configuration is provided that can be read quickly and stably.

In the first aspect of the invention, when light of a first wavelength band different from at least the visible light region is irradiated, the first wavelength band is transmitted and light in the second wavelength band of the visible light region is transmitted. A portion to be formed that becomes less transmissive than the transmissive state when irradiated;
A first information code provided on a predetermined first surface side of the formed portion, and comprising a dark color module and a light color module configured by exposing the first surface side of the formed portion;
A second module is provided on the second surface side opposite to the first surface of the formed portion, and includes a dark color module and a light color module configured by exposing the second surface side of the formed portion. Two information codes;
Have
The dark color module of the first information code transmits the light of the first wavelength band when irradiated with the light of the first wavelength band, and the first module when the light of the second wavelength band is irradiated. An image of the first information code is generated by reflected light that reflects light in the second wavelength band and reflects light in the second wavelength band,
The dark color module of the second information code reflects the first wavelength band light when irradiated with the first wavelength band light and reflects the first wavelength band light by the reflected light. 2 An image of an information code is generated,
The second information code is arranged in a configuration overlapping with at least a part of the first information code when viewed from the first surface side with respect to the second surface side of the formed portion ,
The second information code is recorded with at least data not recorded in the first information code .

The second aspect of the invention is a formation portion that is in a transmission state that transmits light of the first wavelength band when irradiated with light of the first wavelength band different from at least the visible light region;
A first information code provided on a predetermined first surface side of the formed portion, and comprising a dark color module and a light color module configured by exposing the first surface side of the formed portion;
A second module is provided on the second surface side opposite to the first surface of the formed portion, and includes a dark color module and a light color module configured by exposing the second surface side of the formed portion. Two information codes;
Have
The dark color module of the first information code transmits light in the first wavelength band when irradiated with light in the first wavelength band, and is irradiated with light in the second wavelength band in the visible light region. The image of the first information code is generated by the reflected light that reflects the light in the second wavelength band and reflects the light in the second wavelength band.
The dark color module of the second information code reflects the first wavelength band light when irradiated with the first wavelength band light and reflects the first wavelength band light by the reflected light. 2 An image of an information code is generated,
The second information code is arranged in a configuration overlapping with at least a part of the first information code when viewed from the first surface side with respect to the second surface side of the formed portion ,
The second information code is recorded with at least data not recorded in the first information code .

A third invention is an information code reading system comprising an information code display medium on which an information code is displayed and an information code reading device for reading the information code attached to the information code display medium,
The information code display medium is
When the light of the first wavelength band different from at least the visible light region is irradiated, the light is transmitted through the first wavelength band, and the light of the second wavelength band of the visible light region is irradiated. A forming part that is in a state of lower permeability than the transmission state;
A first information code provided on a predetermined first surface side of the formed portion, and comprising a dark color module and a light color module configured by exposing the first surface side of the formed portion;
A second module is provided on the second surface side opposite to the first surface of the formed portion, and includes a dark color module and a light color module configured by exposing the second surface side of the formed portion. Two information codes;
Have
The dark color module of the first information code transmits the light of the first wavelength band when irradiated with the light of the first wavelength band, and the first module when the light of the second wavelength band is irradiated. An image of the first information code is generated by reflected light that reflects light in the second wavelength band and reflects light in the second wavelength band,
The dark color module of the second information code reflects the first wavelength band light when irradiated with the first wavelength band light and reflects the first wavelength band light by the reflected light. 2 An image of an information code is generated,
The second information code is arranged in a configuration overlapping with at least a part of the first information code when viewed from the first surface side with respect to the second surface side of the formed part,
In the second information code, at least data not recorded in the first information code is recorded,
The information code reader is
An irradiation light source capable of emitting light in the first wavelength band;
An image of the first information code is captured in a state where the light source of the first wavelength band is not irradiated to the information code display medium by the irradiation light source, and the information code display medium is input to the information code display medium by the irradiation light source. An imaging unit that captures an image of the second information code in a state of being irradiated with light in the first wavelength band;
A decoding unit that decodes the first information code when the first information code is imaged by the imaging unit, and that decodes the second information code when the second information code is imaged by the imaging unit; ,
It is characterized by having.

4th invention is an information code reading system provided with the information code display medium on which an information code is displayed, and the information code reading device which reads the information code attached to the information code display medium,
The information code display medium is
A formation part that is in a transmission state that transmits light of the first wavelength band when irradiated with light of a first wavelength band different from at least the visible light region;
A first information code provided on a predetermined first surface side of the formed portion, and comprising a dark color module and a light color module configured by exposing the first surface side of the formed portion;
A second module is provided on the second surface side opposite to the first surface of the formed portion, and includes a dark color module and a light color module configured by exposing the second surface side of the formed portion. Two information codes;
Have
The dark color module of the first information code transmits light in the first wavelength band when irradiated with light in the first wavelength band, and is irradiated with light in the second wavelength band in the visible light region. The image of the first information code is generated by the reflected light that reflects the light in the second wavelength band and reflects the light in the second wavelength band.
The dark color module of the second information code reflects the first wavelength band light when irradiated with the first wavelength band light and reflects the first wavelength band light by the reflected light. 2 An image of an information code is generated,
The second information code is arranged in a configuration overlapping with at least a part of the first information code when viewed from the first surface side with respect to the second surface side of the formed part,
In the second information code, at least data not recorded in the first information code is recorded,
The information code reader is
An irradiation light source capable of emitting light in the first wavelength band;
The information code display medium is imaged with the first information code in a state where the light source is not irradiated with the light of the first wavelength band, and the information code display medium is An imaging unit that captures an image of the second information code in a state of being irradiated with light in the first wavelength band;
A decoding unit that decodes the first information code when the first information code is imaged by the imaging unit, and that decodes the second information code when the second information code is imaged by the imaging unit; ,
It is characterized by having.

The information code display medium according to claim 1 is in a transmission state that transmits light of the first wavelength band when irradiated with light of a first wavelength band different from at least the visible light area, and the second wavelength of the visible light area. A formation portion that is in a state of lower transparency than the transmission state when irradiated with light of the band, and a dark color module and a first surface of the formation portion provided on a predetermined first surface side of the formation portion. A first information code comprising a light color module configured by exposing the side, and a second surface side opposite to the first surface of the formed portion; and the dark color module and the formed portion of the formed portion A light color module configured by exposing the second surface side and a second information code including a plurality of types of modules are provided.
The dark color module of the first information code transmits light of the first wavelength band when irradiated with light of the first wavelength band, reflects visible light and emits visible light when irradiated with visible light. The image of the first information code is generated by the reflected light that reflects the light. In this configuration, in an environment where visible light is irradiated and light in the first wavelength band is not irradiated or the amount of light in the first wavelength band is small, the portion to be formed is in a state of low transparency. That is, when viewed from the first surface side, the first information code is visible, but the second information code is difficult to view. Further, in a normal reading device that does not irradiate light in the first wavelength band, when reading from the first surface side, the second information code on the back side is read in a state in which the formed portion has low transparency and is difficult to recognize. Therefore, only the first information code can be read out of these two codes.
On the other hand, when the light of the first wavelength band is irradiated, the portion to be formed enters a transmission state that transmits the light of the first wavelength band, and the second information code reflects the light of the first wavelength band by the dark module. At the same time, an image of the second information code is generated by the reflected light reflecting the light in the first wavelength band. Therefore, in a reading device that can irradiate light in the first wavelength band, the second information code can be read even from the first surface side by imaging while irradiating light in the first wavelength band.
In particular, the second information code is arranged so as to overlap with at least a part of the first information code when viewed from the first surface side with respect to the second surface side of the portion to be formed. In this configuration, even if a slight transmission state occurs in the formation portion in the visible light environment, at least a part of the second information code is hidden behind the first information code when viewed from the first surface side. It becomes composition. That is, since it becomes more difficult to grasp the accurate shape of the second information code, reading of the second information code with a general reading device under a visible light environment can be prevented more reliably.
Further, at least data not recorded in the first information code is recorded in the second information code. According to this configuration, reading with a specific reading device is desired, which is very advantageous when data that is not desired to be read with a general reading device is handled.

The information code display medium according to claim 2 is a formed part, a first information code provided on a predetermined first surface side of the formed part, and second information provided on a second surface side of the formed part. And a cord.
The dark module of the first information code transmits the light of the first wavelength band when irradiated with the light of the first wavelength band, and the first color when the light of the second wavelength band of the visible light region is irradiated . The image of the first information code is generated by the reflected light that reflects the light in the second wavelength band and reflects the light in the second wavelength band.
In this configuration, in an environment where visible light is irradiated and light in the first wavelength band is not irradiated or the amount of light in the first wavelength band is small, when viewed from the first surface side, One information code is clearly grasped. On the other hand, the second information code is hidden behind the first information code and the portion to be formed, making it difficult to accurately recognize the entire shape. Therefore, in a normal reading device that does not emit light in the first wavelength band, when reading from the first surface side, only the first information code can be read out of these two codes.
On the other hand, when the light of the first wavelength band is irradiated, the dark color module of the first information code transmits the light of the first wavelength band, and the portion to be formed is in a transmission state of transmitting the light of the first wavelength band. The second information code is configured such that the dark color module reflects light in the first wavelength band. Therefore, a reader capable of irradiating light in the first wavelength band can recognize the first information code and the second information code arranged on the back side of the formation portion even when reading from the first surface side. The second information code can be read.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, an adhesive layer made of an adhesive medium is provided on the second surface side of the formed portion. According to this configuration, the entire information code display medium can be used as a seal, and an effect similar to that of the above-described invention can be produced at a portion where the information code display medium is bonded. This is advantageous, for example, when it is desired to receive the above-mentioned benefits in an object in which two information codes are difficult to form directly, or when it is desired to add the above features after the object is formed.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the portion to be formed is configured as a plate material or a sheet material that can be flexibly deformed. According to this configuration, the degree of freedom of the application position of the information code display medium is increased. For example, a characteristic information code display medium can be used not only for a flat part but also for a part that is curved to some extent or a part that is slightly uneven. Can be attached.

In the invention of claim 5, the portion to be formed is in an opaque state in a visible light environment irradiated with visible light. According to this configuration, it is possible to make it difficult to grasp the presence of the second information code in a visible light environment, and more reliably prevent the second information code from being read by a general reading device. it can.

According to the structure of Claim 6, the information code reading system which has the same effect as Claim 1 is realizable.

According to the structure of Claim 7, the information code reading system which has the same effect as Claim 2 is realizable.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically illustrating the configuration of the information code reading system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating the configuration of the information code display medium according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3A is an explanatory diagram schematically showing a state where the information code display medium of FIG. 1 is viewed from the front side, and FIG. 3B is a view of the information code display medium of FIG. 1 viewed from the back side. FIG. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram schematically illustrating a captured image captured when infrared light is irradiated from the surface side of the information code display medium of FIG. 1. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating the configuration of the information code display medium according to the second 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. The information code reading system 1 shown in FIG. 1 is configured as a system including an information code display medium 10 on which an information code is displayed, and an information code reading device 40 that reads the information code attached to the information code display medium 10. ing. An information code display medium 10 (hereinafter also simply referred to as medium 10) is formed by a first information code C1 and a second information code C2 (see FIGS. 2 and 3) each having a light color module Cw and a dark color module Cb. The information code reading device 40 (hereinafter also simply referred to as the reading device 40) is a device that can read the first information code C1 and the second information code 2 formed on the medium 10. It is configured. Then, the reading device 40 images and decodes the first information code C1 and the second information code C2 formed on the medium 10, so that the data recorded in these codes can be acquired and output. Yes. Hereinafter, the medium 10 and the reading device 40 will be described in detail.

(Information code display medium)
The information code display medium 10 is formed by forming a first information code C1 and a second information code C2 on a formed portion 14 such as a resin member or glass. The first information code C1 is provided on the predetermined first surface 14A side of the portion 14 to be formed, and has a configuration in which a plurality of types of modules are arranged in a matrix. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3A, the module is composed of two types of cells, a light color module (light color cell) Cw and a dark color module (dark color cell) Cb. It is configured as a region to which transparent ink (for example, ink having relatively low transparency when irradiated with visible light and relatively high transparency when irradiated with infrared light) is applied. In addition, the light color module Cw is configured as a region where infrared transmissive ink is not applied, a surface of a formation portion 14 to be described later is exposed, and a surface of the formation portion 14 is visually recognized. In addition, the outside of the code area where the light color module and the dark color module are arranged (the smallest rectangular area including all the dark color module arrangement areas) is surrounded by a margin area of the same color as the light color module. In addition, it is configured as an area where the surface of the portion to be formed 14 is visually recognized without being attached with infrared transmitting ink. The first information code C1 can be formed, for example, by a method such as printing infrared transmissive ink on the first surface 14A of the portion 14 to be formed.

  The second information code C2 is provided on the second surface 14B side opposite to the first surface 14A in the formed portion 14, and has a configuration in which a plurality of types of modules are arranged in a matrix. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3B, it is composed of two types of cells, a light color module (light color cell) Cw and a dark color module (dark color cell) Cb. The dark color module Cb is a normal dark color. It is configured as a region to which ink (ink that does not transmit when irradiated with infrared rays, for example, dark ink such as black or indigo) is applied. Further, the light color module Cw is configured as a region where the dark ink is not applied, the second surface 14B of the formed portion 14 is exposed, and the formed portion 14 is visually recognized when viewed from the second surface 14B side. Yes. In the second information code C2, the outside of the code area where the light color module and the dark color module are arranged (the smallest rectangular area including all the dark color module arrangement areas) is surrounded by a margin area of the same color as the light color module, The margin area is also configured as an area where the dark ink is not applied and the formation portion 14 is visually recognized when viewed from the second surface 14B side.

  In the example shown in FIG. 3, FIG. 4, etc., both the first information code C1 and the second information code C2 are configured as QR codes (registered trademark), and can be decoded by a known method. The configuration of the first information code C1 and the second information code C2 may be various information codes. For example, a known one-dimensional code such as a barcode may be used, or a known two-dimensional code such as a data matrix code or a maxi code may be used.

  In the example shown in FIG. 3 and the like, the first information code C1 and the second information code C2 are configured by the same type of code and have the same outer size, and the second information code is directly behind the outer shape of the first information code C1. Although the outer shapes of C2 are configured to overlap, the first information code C1 and the second information code C2 may be configured by different types of codes. Further, the first information code C1 and the second information code C2 may be configured with different sizes.

  The formed portion 14 is in a transmission state that transmits light in the first wavelength band when at least light in the first wavelength band different from the visible light region is irradiated, and light in the second wavelength band in the visible light region is transmitted. When irradiated, it becomes a state of lower permeability than the transmissive state. In this configuration, for example, a configuration in which infrared transmitting ink is disposed on a surface layer portion of a transparent member made of glass or a resin material, or a configuration in which the entire formed portion 14 is made of the same material as the infrared transmitting ink is used. Infrared light of 750 nm or more corresponds to “light in a first wavelength band different from the visible light region”. For example, visible light having a wavelength of 380 nm to 750 nm corresponds to “light in the second wavelength band in the visible light region”. In other words, when infrared light is irradiated, the infrared light is transmitted, and when visible light is irradiated, it is more transmissive than the transmission state (transparent state when infrared light is irradiated). It is comprised so that it may become a low state. In addition, in the structure shown in FIG. 3 etc., the to-be-formed part 14 used in the visible light environment irradiated with visible light is used.

  The first information code C1 is formed in a form in which, for example, a known infrared transmitting ink is arranged on the dark color module portion on the first surface 14A of the formed portion 14 thus formed. C2 is formed on the second surface 14B of the portion 14 to be formed in a form in which, for example, normal dark color ink is disposed in the dark color module portion. In this configuration, the first surface 14 </ b> A is the front surface of the formed portion 14, and the second surface 14 </ b> B is the back surface of the formed portion 14.

  Then, as shown in FIG. 3A, visible light is irradiated and infrared light is not irradiated or the amount of infrared light is very small (irradiation by an infrared light irradiation light source is not performed). Under the environment), the formed portion 14 is in an opaque state or in a state of low transparency (a state in which the transparency is significantly lower than that at the time of infrared light irradiation). And when it sees from the surface side (1st surface 14A side), it is comprised so that the shape of the 2nd information code C2 located in the back side of the to-be-formed part 14 may become invisible or difficult to visually recognize. In FIG. 3A, the area of the formed portion 14 is conceptually shown by cross-hatching, and the area of the dark module of the first information code C1 (area where the infrared transmission ink is applied in the first information code C1). Is shown in black.

  The region (cross-hatched region) of the portion 14 to be formed when viewed from the first surface 14A side is in the normal environment (visible light is not irradiated with infrared light or the amount of infrared light). In a normal environment where there is very little), the dark information module area of the first information code C1 is different from at least one of color, density, and luminance. For example, in the normal environment, the brightness of the area of the formed portion 14 (cross-hatched area) is higher than that of the dark color module area of the first information code C1. The area of the dark module of the first information code C1 is recognized as black, and the area other than the dark module of the first information code C1 is recognized as gray in the formation portion 14.

  In FIG. 2 and the like, the example in which the first information code C1 and the second information code C2 are formed on the forming portion 14 configured as a plate-like or sheet-like member is shown. There are various uses. For example, it may be a plastic bag or a resin case configured as a product packaging, or may be a glass case. Or the to-be-formed part 14 may be goods or other articles themselves. In the example of FIG. 2 and the like, the example in which the formation portion 14 is formed of one layer is shown. However, “at least when the first wavelength band different from the visible light region is irradiated, If there is a layer of “a configuration that becomes a transmission state that transmits light of the first wavelength and becomes less transmissive than the transmission state when irradiated with light in the second wavelength band of the visible light region”, the transparent member or the transparent You may be comprised as multiple layers with which the high member etc. overlapped.

  The first information code C formed in the formation portion 14 is divided into an inversion region and a non-inversion region. The inversion region shows dark color reflection characteristics when irradiated with visible light when viewed from the front surface side (one surface 14A side), and light in a first wavelength band having a wavelength different from that of visible light (for example, infrared light). Is configured to exhibit light-colored reflection characteristics when irradiated. Further, the non-inverted region exhibits a light color reflection characteristic when irradiated with visible light, and also exhibits a light color reflection characteristic when irradiated with light in the first wavelength band (for example, infrared light). It is configured. In the first information code C1, the area of the dark module Cb (dark cell in the example shown in FIG. 3A) is an inverted area, and the light module Cw (in the example shown in FIG. 3A) is bright. The color cell area is a non-inverted area. An area adjacent to the periphery of the code area (minimum rectangular area including all areas where the dark color module Cb is arranged) is also a non-inverted area. That is, an annular margin area adjacent immediately adjacent to the code area is also configured as a non-inversion area.

  Since it is configured in this manner, an environment in which visible light (second wavelength band light) is irradiated and illumination light in the first wavelength band (for example, infrared light) is not irradiated, or illumination light in the first wavelength band. In an environment where the amount of light (for example, infrared light) is as low as the normal environment (an environment in which infrared light is not irradiated by a special infrared light irradiation light source), a general user sees from the first surface 14A side (front surface side). As shown in FIG. 3A, in the first information code C1, the background area (the area outside the code area) including the area of the light color module Cw and the margin area is recognized in light color, and the dark color module Cb Since these areas are recognized as areas having lower brightness than these areas, they are seen as being distinguished from each other.

  The dark color module Cb and the light color module Cw of the first information code C1 each reflect visible light when irradiated with visible light (second wavelength band light), and these modules reflect visible light. The image of the first information code C1 is generated by the reflected light. Therefore, in a normal reading device, an image in which the shape of the first information code C1 is accurately shown can be obtained by receiving and imaging such reflected light, and the first information code C1 can be recognized and decoded. Is possible. In addition, an environment in which visible light (light in the second wavelength band) is irradiated and illumination light in the first wavelength band (for example, infrared light) is not irradiated, or illumination light in the first wavelength band (for example, infrared light) is used. In an environment where the amount of light) is as low as the normal environment, the formation portion 14 is in an opaque state or a state of low transparency, so when a general user sees from the first surface 14A side (surface side), The second information code C2 located on the back side cannot be grasped or is difficult to grasp. In a normal reading device, it is difficult to accurately recognize the shape of the second information code C12 from the first surface side.

  On the other hand, when infrared light (light in the first wavelength band) is irradiated from the first surface 14A side of the medium 10, both the light color module and the dark color module of the first information code C1 have this infrared light. The light (light in the first wavelength band) is transmitted, and the portion to be formed 14 also transmits the infrared light (light in the first wavelength band). That is, since the portion arranged on the front side (the first surface 14A side) than the second information code C2 is in a highly transparent state, as shown in FIG. 4, the second information code C2 also from the first surface 14A side. Will be able to grasp. The plurality of types of modules of the second information code C2 are such that at least one of the types of modules is infrared light (first wavelength band light) when irradiated with infrared light (first wavelength band light). Thus, the image of the second information code C2 is generated by the reflected light reflecting the infrared light (light in the first wavelength band) in this way. Specifically, the portion of the dark color module Cb to which the normal dark color ink is applied reflects infrared light to show a dark color, and the portion of the light color module Cw to which the dark color ink is not applied and the margin. The region indicates the background state behind the second surface 14B (the side opposite to the first surface 14A).

  Since it is configured in this way, even if reading is performed from the first surface 14A side by using a reading device 40, which will be described later, capable of imaging while irradiating infrared light, such reflected light (irradiated with infrared light) is used. (Second reflected light from the second information code C2) can be received to obtain an image showing the shape of the second information code C2 accurately, and the second information code C2 can be recognized and decoded. .

  In this configuration, in the information code display medium 10, the dark color module Cb of the first information code C1 is formed by the first ink, and the dark color module Cb of the second information code C2 is formed by the second ink. In addition, neither ink is arranged in the bright color module areas of the first information code C1 and the second information code C2.

  Of these, the first ink exhibits a reflection characteristic of a dark color (for example, a dark color such as black, indigo, and blue) when irradiated with light in the second wavelength band (for example, visible light), and has a first wavelength band. It functions so as to be in a transparent state or a light color state with high light transmittance when irradiated with light (for example, infrared light). That is, when light in the first wavelength band is irradiated, the color is inverted from a dark color to a light color (transparent color or light color with high light transmission). Specifically, it is configured as a known infrared reactive ink (such as a known infrared transmitting ink), and when it is irradiated with infrared light having a wavelength of 750 nm or more, it becomes a substantially invisible state or a highly transparent light color state. It is configured as follows.

  The second ink exhibits dark color (for example, dark color such as black, indigo, and blue) reflection characteristics when irradiated with light in the second wavelength band (for example, visible light), and light in the first wavelength band. Even when irradiated (for example, infrared light), it functions so as to exhibit reflection characteristics of dark colors (for example, dark colors such as black, indigo and blue). 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, dark colors such as black, indigo and blue).

  In the example of FIGS. 3 and 4, no ink is applied to the area of the light color module Cw and the margin area of the second information code C2, and infrared light is used if there is even a little brightness in the background state. When imaging is performed while illuminating, as shown in FIG. 4, the dark color module Cb and the light color module Cw are distinguished and imaged, but the configuration is not limited thereto. For example, normal light ink (such as light ink recognized as white or yellow when irradiated with infrared light) is attached to the light color module Cw area and the margin area of the second information code C2. Also good.

(Information code reader)
Next, the information code reading device 40 will be described.
The information code reader 40 shown in FIG. 1 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), visible light (in the second wavelength band). A second illumination light source 43 that emits light), a first illumination light source 44 that emits infrared light (light in the first wavelength band), a storage unit 45 including storage means such as ROM, RAM, and nonvolatile memory. ing. 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 first illumination light source 44 corresponds to an example of an “irradiation light source” and is configured to be able to irradiate infrared light (light having a first wavelength band different from the visible light region).

  The imaging unit 42 is configured to be able to image the information code C, and is disposed, for example, between the pair of second illumination light sources 43a and 43b. The imaging unit 42 functions to generate the image data of the information code display medium 10 by causing the reflected light from the information code display medium 10 to form an image on the light receiving surface of the light receiving sensor 42a. Specifically, an image of the first information code C1 is captured in a state where the first illumination light source 44 is not irradiated with light of the first wavelength band on the information code display medium 10, and the information code display medium 10 is captured. Thus, the first illumination light source 44 functions to capture an image of the second information code C2 in a state where light in the first wavelength band is irradiated.

  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.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the second illumination light source 43 and the first illumination light source 44 constituting the illumination optical system are provided, for example, on both sides of the imaging unit 42 (light reception optical system). A pair of 2nd illumination light sources 43a and 43b are comprised by LED which irradiates visible light with a wavelength of 380 nm-750 nm, for example. Further, the first illumination light sources 44a and 44b arranged in pairs are constituted by light sources (LEDs, other infrared lamps, etc.) that emit infrared light having a wavelength of 750 nm or more. In this configuration, the number of light sources of the first illumination light source 44 (second illumination light irradiation means) is larger than the number of light sources of the second illumination light source 43 (first illumination light irradiation means).

  The storage unit 45 corresponds to, for example, RAM (DRAM, SRAM, etc.), ROM (EPROM, EEPROM, etc.), and other storage devices. 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 this configuration, the control unit 41 corresponds to an example of a decoding unit. When the first information code C1 is imaged by the imaging unit 42, the first information code C1 is decoded and the imaging unit 42 extracts the second information. It functions to decrypt the second information code C2 when the code C2 is imaged.

  Specifically, for example, it is possible to switch between a first mode for imaging without irradiating infrared light and a second mode for imaging by irradiating infrared light. In the first mode, for example, the first illumination light source 44 is turned off and the second illumination light source 43 is turned on, and imaging by the imaging unit 42 is performed. In this way, when the second illumination light source 43 is turned on and imaging is performed while irradiating illumination light (visible light) in the second wavelength band, the medium 10 shown in FIGS. When the image is taken from the front surface side, the formed portion 14 becomes opaque or in a low transparency state as shown in FIG. 3A, and the surface of the two cords C1 and C2 is on the front side (the first surface 14A side). An image of only the arranged first information code C1 is obtained. Therefore, it is possible to obtain data recorded in the first information code C1 by decoding such an image of the first information code C1 by a known decoding method.

  On the other hand, in the second mode, for example, the second illumination light source 43 is turned off and the first illumination light source 44 is turned on to perform imaging by the imaging unit 42. In this way, when the first illumination light source 44 is turned on and imaging is performed while irradiating illumination light in the first wavelength band (for example, infrared light), the medium 10 shown in FIGS. 2 to 4 is in the imaging range. When an image is taken from the front surface side (first surface 14A side) of the medium 10, the first information code C1 and the formed portion 14 are in a transmissive state as shown in FIG. 4, and the first information code C1 and the formed portion 14 are arranged on the back side (second surface 14B side). An image of the two information code C2 is obtained. Therefore, it is possible to obtain data recorded in the second information code C2 by decoding such an image of the second information code C2 by a known decoding method.

  The switching between the first mode and the second mode may be performed automatically. For example, when a predetermined trigger operation is performed, imaging in the first mode may be performed, and then imaging in the second mode may be performed. Alternatively, the imaging in the first mode and the imaging in the second mode may be switched at regular time intervals (for example, every few ms or every few seconds). Alternatively, imaging in the first mode is performed after a predetermined trigger operation, the first information code C1 is attempted to be decoded, and if the decoding of the first information code C1 is successful, imaging in the second mode is performed, It is possible to try to decode the two information code C2.

  Alternatively, the switching between the first mode and the second mode may be switched when a predetermined operation is performed by the user. For example, when the user performs a predetermined first operation (first operation on a predetermined button, etc.), imaging in the first mode is performed, and a predetermined second operation (second operation on the predetermined button, etc.) is performed. When this is done, imaging in the second mode may be performed.

  In the representative examples shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the first information code C <b> 1 and the second information code C <b> 2 are both QR codes (registered trademark), but a data matrix code, a maxi code, etc. The same applies to other types of two-dimensional codes expressed by light and dark color modules, as well as one-dimensional barcodes such as one-dimensional barcodes as long as the codes are expressed by light and dark color modules. it can.

In this configuration, the information code display medium 10 is in a transmissive state that transmits light in the first wavelength band when irradiated with light in the first wavelength band different from at least the visible light area, and the second in the visible light area. Provided on the side of the predetermined first surface 14A of the formation part 14 to be formed 14 which is in a state of lower transparency than the transmission state when irradiated with light in the wavelength band, and includes a plurality of types of modules. The first information code C1 and the second information code C2 provided on the second surface 14B side opposite to the first surface 14A of the portion 14 to be formed and provided with a plurality of types of modules.
The plurality of types of modules of the first information code C1 transmit light in the first wavelength band when irradiated with light in the first wavelength band, and at least any type when irradiated with visible light. This module is configured to reflect the visible light and generate an image of the first information code C1 by the reflected light reflecting the visible light. In this configuration, under the environment where visible light is irradiated and light in the first wavelength band is not irradiated or the amount of light in the first wavelength band is small, the portion to be formed 14 is in a state of low transparency. That is, when viewed from the first surface 14A side, the first information code C1 is visible, but it is difficult to visually recognize the second information code C2. Further, in a normal reading device that does not irradiate light in the first wavelength band, when reading from the first surface 14A side, the second information code C2 on the back side is read in a state where the formed portion 14 has low transparency and is difficult to recognize. Therefore, only the first information code C1 can be read out of these two codes.
On the other hand, when the light of the first wavelength band is irradiated, the formation portion 14 is in a transmission state that transmits the light of the first wavelength band, and the second information code C2 includes any type of module that has the first wavelength. The image of the second information code C2 is generated by the reflected light that reflects the band light and reflects the light in the first wavelength band. Therefore, in the reading apparatus that can irradiate light in the first wavelength band, the second information code C2 can be read even from the first surface 14A side by imaging while irradiating light in the first wavelength band.

  Further, the second information code C2 is arranged so as to overlap with at least a part of the first information code C1 in the thickness direction of the portion 14 to be formed. In this configuration, even if a slight transmission state occurs in the formation portion 14 in a visible light environment, at least a part of the second information code C2 is the first information code C1 when viewed from the first surface 14A side. It will be hidden behind the back. That is, since it becomes more difficult to grasp the accurate shape of the second information code C2, it is possible to more reliably prevent the reading of the second information code C2 by a general reading device in a visible light environment.

  Note that at least data that is not recorded in the first information code C1 may be recorded in the second information code C2. According to this configuration, reading with a specific reading device is desired, which is very advantageous when data that is not desired to be read with a general reading device is handled. For example, when the formed portion 14 is configured as a part of a product or a package, the first information code C1 on the front side (the first surface 14A side) includes information to be provided to the user (for example, information about the product ( Material, place of origin, efficacy, other advertising information, etc.) and the Internet address of the product provider, etc.) are recorded, and the second information code C2 is used to determine whether the product is genuine. It is possible to use such as recording identification information (for example, a serial number indicating a genuine product). In this way, it is possible to obscure the presence of the second information code C2, and it is possible to perform a regular product check only for a specific reading device.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, a second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
The second embodiment includes all the configurations of the first embodiment, and further has a configuration in which an adhesive layer 16 is added. The information code reading system 1 according to the second embodiment is different from the first embodiment only in that an adhesive layer 16 is provided on the information code display medium 10, and other than that is the same as the first embodiment. Therefore, the same configurations as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the first embodiment, and detailed description thereof is omitted. In particular, the configuration of the information code reader 40 is the same as that of the first embodiment. The medium 10 is the same as that in the first embodiment except for the adhesive layer 16.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the information code display medium 10 according to the present configuration is also in a transmissive state that transmits light in the first wavelength band when irradiated with light in the first wavelength band different from at least the visible light region. In addition, a formed portion 14 is provided that is in a state of lower transparency than the transmission state when irradiated with light in the second wavelength band in the visible light region. And the 1st information code C1 provided in the predetermined 1st surface 14A side of the to-be-formed part 14 and provided with multiple types of modules, and the 2nd surface 14B opposite to the 1st surface 14A in the to-be-formed part 14 And a second information code C2 including a plurality of types of modules. In addition, the structure of the to-be-formed part 14, the 1st information code C1, and the 2nd information code C2 is the same as 1st Embodiment, and the deformation | transformation structure similar to the modification demonstrated in 1st Embodiment is possible.

  Further, in this configuration, an adhesive layer 16 made of an adhesive medium is provided on the back surface side (that is, the second surface 14B side) of the portion 14 to be formed. The adhesive layer 16 may be constituted by a known adhesive having a certain degree of viscosity, or may be constituted by an adhesive sheet such as a known double-sided tape. When the adhesive layer 16 is configured by an adhesive sheet, the adhesive layer 16 is configured in a sheet shape, the surface on the second surface 14B side has adhesiveness, and the surface opposite to the second surface 14B side ( The exposed surface in the example of FIG. 5 also has adhesiveness. In this case, the surface of the adhesive layer 16 on the side of the formed portion 14 is adhered to the second surface 14B, and the surface of the adhesive layer 16 opposite to the formed portion 14 is adhered to another object. . Note that the target object to which the information code display medium 10 is bonded is various, may be various products, and may be various devices, facilities, tools, and the like. Further, it is useful to stick to an article such as a glass product or a precious metal product that is difficult to directly print or for which direct printing is not desired.

  Also in this configuration, the formed portion 14 has the same configuration as that of the first embodiment, and is configured as a plate material or a sheet material that can be bent and deformed. And the contact bonding layer 16 is provided by the structure which covers the surface (2nd surface 14B) of the thickness direction other side of the to-be-formed part 14. FIG. In this configuration, functions and effects of portions other than the adhesive layer 16 are the same as in the first embodiment. For example, the configuration viewed from the front side in the normal state is the same as that in FIG. 3A, and the captured image (for example, in the first mode by the reading device 40 in the state of irradiating visible light without irradiating infrared light). 3A is also the same as that shown in FIG. 3A, and the first information code C1 can be decoded by capturing such an image with the reading device 40. On the other hand, an image (for example, a captured image in the second mode by the reading device 40) taken by the imaging unit 42 while irradiating infrared light (light in the first wavelength band) by the reading device 40 is shown in FIG. 4, the second information code C <b> 2 can be decoded by capturing such an image with the reading device 40.

  Even in this configuration, the same effect as in the first embodiment can be obtained. Furthermore, since the adhesive layer 16 made of an adhesive medium is provided on the second surface 14B side of the portion 14 to be formed, the entire information code display medium 10 can be used as a seal, and the information code display medium 10 is bonded. The effect similar to that of the above-described invention can be produced in the portion thus formed. This is advantageous, for example, when it is desired to enjoy the above-mentioned benefits in an object in which two types of information codes C1 and C2 are difficult to form directly, or when it is desired to add the above features after the object is formed.

  Moreover, the to-be-formed part 14 is comprised as a board | plate material or sheet material which can be bent and deformed. According to this configuration, the degree of freedom of the application position of the information code display medium 10 is increased. For example, an information code display medium that is characteristic not only for a flat part but also for a part that is curved to some extent or a part that is slightly uneven. 10 can be attached.

[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 above embodiment, the second information code C2 is configured to be formed on the second surface 14B of the portion 14 to be formed. However, if the second information code C2 is closer to the second surface 14B than the first information code C1, the second information code C2 It may not be on the surface 14B. For example, it may be formed inside the portion 14 to be formed.

  In the above embodiment, infrared light is exemplified as the light in the first wavelength band, but the first wavelength band may be light in a wavelength band other than the visible light region. In this case, the dark color module of the part to be formed and the first information code C1 is made of a material that is in a highly transmissive state when irradiated with light in the first wavelength band and is in a low transmissive state when exposed to visible light. do it.

  In the above-described embodiment, the configuration in which the second information code C2 is arranged directly behind the first information code C1 is exemplified. However, the outer shapes of the first information code C1 and the second information code C2 are not completely overlapped and are partially Only the front and rear (in the thickness direction of the portion to be formed 14) may be configured to overlap. Alternatively, the first information code C1 and the second information code C2 may be arranged so as not to overlap each other.

  In the above embodiment, an example in which one first information code C1 is formed on the first surface 14A side has been described, but a plurality of first information codes C1 may be formed on the first surface 14A side. Alternatively, a plurality of second information codes C2 may be formed on the second surface 14B side.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Information code reading system 10 ... Information code display medium 14 ... Formed part 14A ... 1st surface 14B ... 2nd surface 16 ... Adhesive layer 40 ... Information code reading device 41 ... Control part (decoding part)
42 ... Imaging unit 44 ... First illumination light source (illumination light source)
C1 ... 1st information code C2 ... 2nd information code

Claims (7)

When the light of the first wavelength band different from at least the visible light region is irradiated, the light is transmitted through the first wavelength band, and the light of the second wavelength band of the visible light region is irradiated. A forming part that is in a state of lower permeability than the transmission state;
A first information code provided on a predetermined first surface side of the formed portion, and comprising a dark color module and a light color module configured by exposing the first surface side of the formed portion;
A second module is provided on the second surface side opposite to the first surface of the formed portion, and includes a dark color module and a light color module configured by exposing the second surface side of the formed portion. Two information codes;
Have
The dark color module of the first information code transmits the light of the first wavelength band when irradiated with the light of the first wavelength band, and the first module when the light of the second wavelength band is irradiated. An image of the first information code is generated by reflected light that reflects light in the second wavelength band and reflects light in the second wavelength band,
The dark color module of the second information code reflects the first wavelength band light when irradiated with the first wavelength band light and reflects the first wavelength band light by the reflected light. 2 An image of an information code is generated,
The second information code is arranged in a configuration overlapping with at least a part of the first information code when viewed from the first surface side with respect to the second surface side of the formed portion ,
The information code display medium , wherein at least data not recorded in the first information code is recorded in the second information code . A formation part that is in a transmission state that transmits light of the first wavelength band when irradiated with light of a first wavelength band different from at least the visible light region;
A first information code provided on a predetermined first surface side of the formed portion, and comprising a dark color module and a light color module configured by exposing the first surface side of the formed portion;
A second module is provided on the second surface side opposite to the first surface of the formed portion, and includes a dark color module and a light color module configured by exposing the second surface side of the formed portion. Two information codes;
Have
The dark color module of the first information code transmits light in the first wavelength band when irradiated with light in the first wavelength band, and is irradiated with light in the second wavelength band in the visible light region. The image of the first information code is generated by the reflected light that reflects the light in the second wavelength band and reflects the light in the second wavelength band.
The dark color module of the second information code reflects the first wavelength band light when irradiated with the first wavelength band light and reflects the first wavelength band light by the reflected light. 2 An image of an information code is generated,
The second information code is arranged in a configuration overlapping with at least a part of the first information code when viewed from the first surface side with respect to the second surface side of the formed portion ,
The information code display medium , wherein at least data not recorded in the first information code is recorded in the second information code .   The information code display medium according to claim 1, wherein an adhesive layer made of an adhesive medium is provided on the second surface side of the formation portion.   The information code display medium according to claim 3, wherein the portion to be formed is configured as a plate material or a sheet material that can be bent and deformed. The forming portion is information code display medium according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein an opaque state and a Rukoto under visible light environment visible light is irradiated. An information code reading system comprising: an information code display medium on which an information code is displayed; and an information code reading device that reads the information code attached to the information code display medium,
The information code display medium is
When the light of the first wavelength band different from at least the visible light region is irradiated, the light is transmitted through the first wavelength band, and the light of the second wavelength band of the visible light region is irradiated. A forming part that is in a state of lower permeability than the transmission state;
A first information code provided on a predetermined first surface side of the formed portion, and comprising a dark color module and a light color module configured by exposing the first surface side of the formed portion;
A second module is provided on the second surface side opposite to the first surface of the formed portion, and includes a dark color module and a light color module configured by exposing the second surface side of the formed portion. Two information codes;
Have
The dark color module of the first information code transmits the light of the first wavelength band when irradiated with the light of the first wavelength band, and the first module when the light of the second wavelength band is irradiated. An image of the first information code is generated by reflected light that reflects light in the second wavelength band and reflects light in the second wavelength band,
The dark color module of the second information code reflects the first wavelength band light when irradiated with the first wavelength band light and reflects the first wavelength band light by the reflected light. 2 An image of an information code is generated,
The second information code is arranged in a configuration overlapping with at least a part of the first information code when viewed from the first surface side with respect to the second surface side of the formed part,
In the second information code, at least data not recorded in the first information code is recorded,
The information code reader is
An irradiation light source capable of emitting light in the first wavelength band;
An image of the first information code is captured in a state where the light source of the first wavelength band is not irradiated to the information code display medium by the irradiation light source, and the information code display medium is input to the information code display medium by the irradiation light source. An imaging unit that captures an image of the second information code in a state of being irradiated with light in the first wavelength band;
A decoding unit that decodes the first information code when the first information code is imaged by the imaging unit, and that decodes the second information code when the second information code is imaged by the imaging unit; ,
An information code reading system comprising: An information code reading system comprising: an information code display medium on which an information code is displayed; and an information code reading device that reads the information code attached to the information code display medium,
The information code display medium is
And forming portion of light of different first wavelength band is transmission state for transmitting light of the first wavelength band when it is irradiated with at least a visible light region,
A first information code provided on a predetermined first surface side of the formed portion, and comprising a dark color module and a light color module configured by exposing the first surface side of the formed portion;
A second module is provided on the second surface side opposite to the first surface of the formed portion, and includes a dark color module and a light color module configured by exposing the second surface side of the formed portion. Two information codes;
Have
The dark color module of the first information code transmits light in the first wavelength band when irradiated with light in the first wavelength band, and is irradiated with light in the second wavelength band in the visible light region . The image of the first information code is generated by the reflected light that reflects the light in the second wavelength band and reflects the light in the second wavelength band.
The dark color module of the second information code reflects the first wavelength band light when irradiated with the first wavelength band light and reflects the first wavelength band light by the reflected light. 2 An image of an information code is generated,
The second information code is arranged in a configuration overlapping with at least a part of the first information code when viewed from the first surface side with respect to the second surface side of the formed part,
In the second information code, at least data not recorded in the first information code is recorded,
The information code reader is
An irradiation light source capable of emitting light in the first wavelength band;
An image of the first information code is captured in a state where the light source of the first wavelength band is not irradiated to the information code display medium by the irradiation light source, and the information code display medium is input to the information code display medium by the irradiation light source. An imaging unit that captures an image of the second information code in a state of being irradiated with light in the first wavelength band;
A decoding unit that decodes the first information code when the first information code is imaged by the imaging unit, and that decodes the second information code when the second information code is imaged by the imaging unit; ,
An information code reading system comprising:

Images