JP6409623B2 - Information code generation method, information code, information code reading system, and information code reading apparatus - Google Patents

Description

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

  In an information code such as a QR code (registered trademark) or a data matrix code, a configuration in which simple rectangular cells are arranged in a matrix is common, and cells arranged in this manner are arranged in a predetermined manner. I try to read it. However, in recent years, since the design of information codes tends to be more important, attempts have been made to change from a general configuration in order to improve the design. For example, FIGS. 24 and 25 of Patent Document 1 disclose an example in which the shape of the cell is not a simple square but a star shape.

Japanese Patent No. 5229653

  By the way, when the cells arranged in the code area have a characteristic structure, there is a problem that they cannot be read by a general reading method, or reading errors are likely to occur.

  For example, the conventional QR code (registered trademark), data matrix code, and the like are based on the premise that the cell color appears in the center of each small area (cell area) divided into rectangular shapes. In the configuration, the center position is always light color, and the cell position of the dark cell is always dark color. If such a configuration is assumed, the center position of each small area (cell area) is identified in the captured code image, and the brightness of each central position is compared with a threshold value, whereby each small area (cell It was possible to determine with high accuracy whether the (region) is a light cell region or a dark cell region.

  However, when the cell shape becomes a special shape, the cell color may not appear at the center, and in such a case, the conventional determination method described above cannot be used. For example, when a dark cell is represented by a crescent moon shape, the dark color region indicating the cell color is deviated from the center position in the allocated rectangular small region (cell region). In the evaluation method, a “light cell” is erroneously determined.

  In addition, here, the problem when the shape and arrangement of the cells are changed is illustrated, but this kind of problem does not occur only when the shape and arrangement of the cells are changed. There is a possibility that it may occur in various cell structures, such as when it is changed.

  The present invention has been made in order to solve the above-described problems, and provides a technology for easily reading a cell in this area in an information code having a characteristic area in which the cell is in a predetermined state. The purpose is to do.

A first invention is an information code generation method for generating an information code in a form in which cells serving as units for displaying information are arranged in each of a plurality of small areas inside a predetermined code area,
A specific pattern area in which a specific pattern having a predetermined shape is arranged inside the code area, a data recording area for recording data to be decoded by a plurality of types of cells, and the data recording area recorded in the data recording area A basic information recording area for recording basic information for reading the data to be decoded; and
Inside the code region, at least a part or all of the cell arrangement region other than the specific pattern region is a feature region that sets the state of the cell in the small region as a predetermined state,
In the basic information recording area, recording specific information for specifying the evaluation method of the cell in the small area in the feature area ,
In the feature region, the arrangement and shape of the cells in the small region are a predetermined cell arrangement and a predetermined cell shape,
In the basic information recording area, as the specifying information, cell position information for specifying the existence position of the cell in the small area of the feature area is recorded,
A subdivision method for dividing the small region into a plurality of subregions is predetermined,
The cell location information, among the plurality of the subdivided regions is divided by the subdivision method in the small region, and wherein the region designation information der Rukoto specifying an area at least the cell is present To do.

A second invention is an information code in which cells serving as units for displaying information are arranged in each of a plurality of small areas inside a predetermined code area,
A specific pattern area in which a specific pattern having a predetermined shape is arranged inside the code area, a data recording area for recording data to be decoded by a plurality of types of cells, and the data recording area recorded in the data recording area A basic information recording area for recording basic information for reading the data to be decoded, and
Inside the code region, at least a part or all of the cell arrangement region other than the specific pattern region is configured as a feature region in which the state of the cell in the small region is in a predetermined state,
In the basic information recording area, specific information for specifying the evaluation method of the cell in the small area in the feature area is recorded ,
In the feature region, the arrangement and shape of the cells in the small region are a predetermined cell arrangement and a predetermined cell shape,
In the basic information recording area, cell position information for specifying the existence position of the cell in the small area of the feature area is recorded as the specific information,
A subdivision method for dividing the small region into a plurality of subregions is predetermined,
The cell location information, among the plurality of the subdivided regions is divided by the subdivision method in the small region, and wherein the region designation information der Rukoto specifying an area at least the cell is present To do.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided an information code generation device that generates an information code in a form in which cells serving as units for displaying information are arranged in each of a plurality of small regions within a predetermined code region;
An information code reader for reading the information code;
With
The information code generation device includes:
A specific pattern area in which a specific pattern having a predetermined shape is arranged inside the code area, a data recording area for recording data to be decoded by a plurality of types of cells, and the data recording area recorded in the data recording area A basic information recording area for recording basic information for reading the data to be decoded; and
Inside the code region, at least a part or all of the cell arrangement region other than the specific pattern region is a feature region that sets the state of the cell in the small region as a predetermined state,
The information code is generated in a form in which specific information for specifying an evaluation method of the cell in the small area in the feature area is recorded in the basic information recording area,
The information code reader is
An imaging unit for imaging the information code;
A reading unit that reads the information code imaged by the imaging unit;
With
The reading unit is
A specific information reading unit that analyzes the basic information recording area and reads the specific information in a captured image of the information code imaged by the imaging unit;
A feature region decoding unit that specifies a method for evaluating the cell in the small region in the feature region based on the specific information read by the specific information reading unit, and that decodes data recorded in the feature region; ,
I have a,
The information code generation device includes:
In the feature area, the arrangement and shape of the cells in the small area are set to a predetermined cell arrangement and a predetermined cell shape, and the cell position information for specifying the position of the cell in the small area of the feature area is specified. Generating the information code in the form recorded in the basic information recording area as information,
A subdivision method for dividing the small region into a plurality of subregions is predetermined,
The cell location information, among the plurality of the subdivided regions is divided by the subdivision method in the small region, and wherein the region designation information der Rukoto specifying an area at least the cell is present To do.

A fourth invention is an information code reader for reading an information code in which cells serving as units for displaying information are arranged in each of a plurality of small areas inside a predetermined code area,
The information code to be read is
A specific pattern area in which a specific pattern having a predetermined shape is arranged inside the code area, a data recording area for recording data to be decoded by a plurality of types of cells, and the data recording area recorded in the data recording area A basic information recording area for recording basic information for reading the data to be decoded, and
Inside the code region, at least a part or all of the cell arrangement region other than the specific pattern region is configured as a feature region in which the state of the cell in the small region is in a predetermined state,
In the basic information recording area, specific information for specifying the evaluation method of the cell in the small area in the feature area is recorded,
An imaging unit for imaging the information code;
A reading unit that reads the information code imaged by the imaging unit;
With
The reading unit is
A specific information reading unit that analyzes the basic information recording area and reads the specific information in a captured image of the information code imaged by the imaging unit;
A feature region decoding unit that specifies a method for evaluating the cell in the small region in the feature region based on the specific information read by the specific information reading unit, and that decodes data recorded in the feature region; ,
I have a,
In the feature region, the arrangement and shape of the cells in the small region are a predetermined cell arrangement and a predetermined cell shape,
In the basic information recording area, cell position information for specifying the existence position of the cell in the small area of the feature area is recorded as the specific information,
A subdivision method for dividing the small region into a plurality of subregions is predetermined,
The cell location information, among the plurality of the subdivided regions is divided by the subdivision method in the small region, and wherein the region designation information der Rukoto specifying an area at least the cell is present Information code reader.

In the method according to the first aspect of the present invention, in the generation of the information code, at least a part or all of the cell arrangement area other than the specific pattern area in the code area, and the state of the cells in the small area To be a feature region. Then, in the basic information recording area that forms a part of the code area, specific information for specifying the cell evaluation method in the small area in the characteristic area is recorded.
According to this method, it is possible to configure a characteristic area in which the cell is in a predetermined state in the code area. Furthermore, since information (specific information) for specifying a cell evaluation method in this feature area is recorded in the basic information recording area, the cell in the feature area is associated with the information code in accordance with a predetermined standard. It becomes possible to evaluate based on the (cell evaluation method), and it becomes easier to read the cells in the characteristic area more appropriately.

In particular , in the feature area, the arrangement and shape of the cells in the small area are a predetermined cell arrangement and a predetermined cell shape different from the outer edge shape of the small area, and the basic information recording area has a small area of the characteristic area as specific information. The cell position information for specifying the existing position of the cell is recorded.
When the information code constituted by the present invention is read by the reader, it is possible to more accurately specify the cell location in each small area in the characteristic area by grasping the contents of the basic information recording area. In other words, instead of performing a general reading method uniformly, it is possible to specify the cell location in each small area using specific information prepared in advance in order to grasp the characteristic area of this information code. Therefore, each cell can be evaluated in a form in which the position is specified more accurately.

In particular , a subdivision method for dividing a small area into a plurality of subdivision areas is predetermined, and cell position information is divided into subdivision methods within a subarea and at least a cell exists. The area designation information that designates the area that is present.
According to the present invention, the cell location can be indicated by a method of designating an area where the cell exists among a plurality of subdivided areas divided by a predetermined subdivision method. It becomes easy to indicate the cell location more specifically without increasing the amount of information for indicating the location, and without complicating the information so much.

In the method according to the second aspect of the invention, cell display evaluation information for specifying an evaluation method of at least one of the hue, density, and luminance of the cell in the small area of the characteristic area is recorded as the specific information in the basic information recording area. To do.
When reading the feature area of the information code generated by this method, instead of performing a general reading method uniformly, in order to evaluate at least one of the hue, density, and luminance of the cells constituting this feature area Since the state of each cell can be evaluated using an evaluation method prepared in advance, an appropriate evaluation based on a specific evaluation method associated with this information code is possible.

In the method according to the third aspect of the present invention, light cells and dark cells are arranged as cells in the code area, and light cells in a small area of the characteristic area are used as cell display evaluation information in the basic information recording area. And threshold information for identifying dark cells.
When reading a feature region of an information code generated by this method, a general threshold value is not uniformly used, but a threshold value prepared in advance for identifying a cell of this feature region is used. Can be stabilized. Therefore, it is possible to make an appropriate determination based on a specific threshold value associated with this information code.

In the method according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the R element, the G element, and the B element in analyzing the captured image of the cell arranged in the small area of the characteristic area as the cell display evaluation information in the basic information recording area. The weight designation information for designating the weight is recorded.
When reading a feature region of an information code generated by this method, a general reading method is not performed uniformly, but weights (R) prepared in advance for analyzing captured images of cells constituting this feature region are used. Since the state of each cell can be evaluated using the weights of the elements, G elements, and B elements), a specific evaluation method associated with this information code (RGB element weighting setting method) is used. Appropriate evaluation based on this becomes possible.

In the method according to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the characteristic area position information for specifying the position of the characteristic area is recorded in the basic information recording area.
When the information code generated by this method is read, it is possible to more accurately identify the position of the feature area by grasping the contents of the basic information recording area. And at least for the feature region accurately identified in this way, a general method is not applied uniformly, but a predetermined criterion (cell evaluation method) for evaluating the feature region. It becomes possible to evaluate based on this, and it becomes easy to read the cell of a characteristic area more appropriately.

In the method according to the sixth aspect of the present invention, the characteristic area is constituted by a plurality of types of individual areas, the state of the cell is determined for each individual area, and each position of each individual area is set in the basic information recording area. Individual area position information for specifying and individual area evaluation information for specifying a cell evaluation method in a small area of each individual area are recorded.
When an information code generated by this method is read, it is possible to more accurately identify each position of a plurality of characteristic areas (individual areas) by grasping the contents of the basic information recording area. Then, in each individual area whose position is accurately identified in this way, evaluation based on each criterion (each cell evaluation method) predetermined for each individual area becomes possible, and in each of the plurality of individual areas The cell can be read more appropriately.

In the method according to the seventh aspect of the present invention, the basic information recording area is provided in a predetermined fixed area in the code area.
When an information code generated by this method is read, it is possible to grasp information (specific information) for specifying a cell evaluation method in the characteristic region by analyzing a predetermined fixed region.

In the method according to the invention of claim 8 , in the code area, a specific pattern area, a data recording area, a basic information recording area, an error correction code recording area for recording an error correction code by a plurality of types of cells, In the code area, data recording is performed in a method different from the method for recording data in the data recording area at a position other than the specific pattern area, data recording area, basic information recording area, and error correction code recording area. Alternatively, an empty area capable of displaying at least one of the designs is provided with a predetermined size larger than the size of a single cell.
If the information code is generated by this method, it is different from the method of recording data in the data recording area at a position other than the specific pattern area, data recording area, basic information recording area, and error correction code recording area within the code area. By this method, it is possible to secure a free space where data recording and / or design display can be performed. Thus, if an area that is not easily affected by the data recording area and the error correction code recording area is secured, the degree of freedom in configuring the information code is increased, and the convenience in using the information code is further enhanced. It becomes easy.

According to the invention of claim 9, the information code has the same effect as that of claim 1 .
According to invention of Claim 10 , it becomes a system with the same effect as Claim 1.
According to the eleventh aspect of the invention, the system has the same effect as the second aspect.
According to the twelfth aspect of the invention, the system has the same effects as the third aspect.
According to invention of Claim 13 , it becomes a system which has the same effect as Claim 4.
According to the fourteenth aspect of the invention, the system has the same effects as the fifth aspect.
According to the fifteenth aspect of the invention, the system has the same effects as the sixth aspect.
According to the sixteenth aspect of the invention, the system has the same effects as the seventh aspect.
According to the seventeenth aspect of the invention, the system has the same effect as that of the eighth aspect .
According to the eighteenth aspect of the present invention, a reading apparatus that exhibits the same effect as the reading apparatus constituting the tenth aspect of the invention is provided .

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram schematically illustrating an information code utilization system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically illustrating an electrical configuration of an information code reading device that constitutes the information code utilization system of FIG. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram for conceptually explaining the data configuration of the information code used in the information code utilization system of FIG. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram for explaining another type of code corresponding to the information code used in the information code utilization system of FIG. FIG. 5 shows the correspondence between the arrangement of each data word in the information code generated by the information code generation apparatus constituting the information code utilization system in FIG. 1 and the arrangement of each data word in another type of code. It is explanatory drawing demonstrated. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram conceptually illustrating the format data of the information code used in the information code utilization system of FIG. FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of information code generation in the information code generation device constituting the information code utilization system of FIG. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram conceptually illustrating the arrangement of the small areas in the code area in the information code (frame QR) generated by the generation process of FIG. FIG. 9 is a diagram for conceptually explaining a specific pattern area, a code word area, a format area, a header storage area, an empty area, etc. in the code area in the information code (frame QR) generated by the generation process of FIG. FIG. FIG. 10A is an explanatory diagram conceptually illustrating the outline of one small region, and FIG. 10B is an explanatory diagram illustrating dark cells in which the entire small region is filled with black, FIG. 10C is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which crescent-shaped black cells are arranged in a small area, and FIG. 10D is an explanation showing an example in which donut-shaped black cells are arranged in a small area. FIG. 10E is an explanatory diagram illustrating a light color in which a small area is filled with white. FIG. 11A is an explanatory diagram showing allocation of a small area in a partial area in the code area, and FIG. 11B shows a partial area in the partial area of FIG. It is explanatory drawing which shows with the dark color cell filled with black, and shows a one part small area | region with the light color cell filled with white. FIG. 12A is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which a crescent moon-shaped dark cell is provided at the same position as the dark cell position of FIG. 11B in a partial region of FIG. 12B is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example in which a donut-shaped dark cell is provided at a position similar to the position of the dark cell in FIG. 11B in a partial region of FIG. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which one small region is divided into a plurality of subdivided regions. FIG. 14A is an explanatory diagram conceptually illustrating a cell position designation method in a small region, and FIG. 14B conceptually illustrates a cell position designation method different from FIG. 14A. It is explanatory drawing demonstrated. FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram conceptually illustrating the specific information recorded in the header storage area. FIG. 16A is an explanatory diagram for explaining a case where a crescent-shaped cell is determined by a conventional determination method, and FIG. 16B is a case where a crescent-shaped cell is determined based on specific information. It is explanatory drawing explaining about. FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a case where a crescent moon-shaped cell in which a blur has occurred is determined based on specific information. FIG. 18 is an explanatory diagram for explaining that specific information is determined for each individual area in the codeword area. FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of reading an information code in the information code reading device constituting the information code utilization system of FIG. FIG. 20 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a configuration in a small area in an information code used in the information code utilization system of the second embodiment, and FIG. 20A conceptually illustrates the outline of one small area. FIG. 20B is an explanatory diagram illustrating dark cells in which the entire small region is filled with the first density, and FIG. 20C is a diagram illustrating the entire small region that is filled with the second density. 20D is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a dark cell, FIG. 20D is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a dark cell in which the entire small area is filled with the third density, and FIG. It is explanatory drawing which illustrates the bright color by which the area | region was filled with white. FIG. 21A is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which a dark cell of the second density is provided at the same position as the dark cell of FIG. 11B in a partial region of FIG. FIG. 21B is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which a dark cell of the third density is provided at the same position as the dark cell of FIG. 11B in a partial region of FIG. FIG. 22 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a configuration in a small area in an information code used in the information code utilization system of the third embodiment, and FIG. 22 (A) conceptually describes the outline of one small area. FIG. 22B is an explanatory diagram illustrating a dark cell in which the entire small area is filled with black, and FIG. 22C is a bright color in which the entire small area is filled with blue. FIG. 22D is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a cell, and FIG. 22D is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a light-colored cell in which the entire small region is filled with red, and FIG. It is explanatory drawing which illustrates the filled bright color. FIG. 23A is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which a blue light cell is provided at the same position as the light cell in FIG. 11B in a partial region of FIG. FIG. 23B is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which a red light cell is provided at a position similar to the light cell position of FIG. 11B in a partial region of FIG. FIG. 24A is an explanatory diagram for explaining a formula for calculating luminance in each pixel of the color sensor. 24B is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of calculating luminance with default weighting, and FIG. 24C is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of calculating luminance with weighting that emphasizes blue. (D) is explanatory drawing which shows the example of calculation of the brightness | luminance by the weighting which attaches importance to red. FIG. 25 is an explanatory diagram conceptually illustrating a specific pattern area, a code word area, a format area, a header storage area, an empty area, and the like in the code area in the information code (frame QR) used in the fourth embodiment. is there. FIG. 26 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an information code used in the information code utilization system according to the fifth embodiment, and FIG. 26 (A) is a diagram showing a state in which an empty area is left blank, and FIG. B) is a diagram illustrating a state in which an image area is provided in the empty area. FIG. 27 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an information code used in the information code utilization system according to the sixth embodiment, and FIG. 27 (A) is a diagram showing a state where a free area is left blank, and FIG. B) is a diagram illustrating a state in which a design is added to the empty area. FIG. 28A is an explanatory diagram conceptually showing the data structure of the data to be decoded in the information code of FIG. 26, and FIG. 28B conceptually shows the data structure of the data to be decoded in the information code of FIG. FIG. FIG. 29 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an information code used in an information code utilization system according to another embodiment. FIG. 30 is an explanatory diagram illustrating another example of an information code used in an information code utilization system according to another embodiment. FIG. 31 is an explanatory diagram illustrating another example 2 of the information code used in the information code utilization system according to another embodiment.

[First embodiment]
Hereinafter, a first embodiment embodying the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
An information code utilization system 1 shown in FIG. 1 is generated by an information code generation device 2 that generates an information code 100 in which cells serving as units for displaying information are arranged in a predetermined code area, and an information code generation device 2. The information code reading device 10 for reading the information code 100 is provided. The information code utilization system 1 corresponds to an example of an information code reading system.

(Information code generator)
The information code generation device 2 is configured as an information processing device such as a personal computer, for example, and includes a control unit 3 including a CPU, an operation unit 4 including a keyboard, a mouse, and other input devices, a ROM, a RAM, and an HDD. A storage unit 5 including a storage device such as a nonvolatile memory, a display unit 6 including a known display device (liquid crystal display or other display device), and a communication interface for performing wired communication or wireless communication with an external device. And a printing unit 8 (printing apparatus) that has the same hardware configuration as a known printer and can print the information code 100 or the like based on print data from the control unit 3. Yes.

(Information code reader)
Next, the overall configuration of the information code reader 10 will be described. As shown in FIG. 2, the information code reader 10 is configured as a code reader capable of reading a two-dimensional code in terms of hardware, and an outer case is configured by a case (housing) (not shown). In which various electronic components are accommodated.

  The information code reader 10 mainly includes an optical system such as an illumination light source 21, a light receiving sensor 23, a filter 25, and an imaging lens 27, and a micro memory such as a memory 35, a control circuit 40, an operation switch 42, and a liquid crystal display 46. It is composed of a computer (hereinafter referred to as “microcomputer”) system and a power supply system such as a power switch 41 and a battery 49. These components are mounted on a printed wiring board (not shown) or built in a case (not shown), and are integrally assembled to the case (housing).

  The optical system includes an illumination light source 21, a light receiving sensor 23, a filter 25, an imaging lens 27, and the like. The illumination light source 21 functions as an illumination light source capable of emitting illumination light Lf, and includes, for example, a red LED and a diffusion lens, a condensing lens, and the like provided on the emission side of the LED. In the present embodiment, illumination light sources 21 are provided on both sides of the light receiving sensor 23, and the illumination light Lf can be irradiated toward the reading object R through a reading port (not shown) formed in the case. It is configured. As the reading object R, for example, various objects such as a resin material, a metal material, and a display device are conceivable. For example, an information code 100 (described later) such as FIG. 1 is printed on the reading object R. Or may be represented by a display on the display unit.

  The light receiving sensor 23 corresponds to an example of an “imaging unit” that can image the information code 100 (described later), and is configured to receive the reflected light Lr irradiated and reflected on the reading object R and the information code 100. Thus, for example, an area sensor in which light receiving elements, which are solid-state imaging elements such as C-MOS and CCD, are two-dimensionally arranged corresponds to this. The light receiving sensor 23 is mounted on a printed wiring board (not shown) so that incident light incident through the imaging lens 27 can be received by the light receiving surface 23a.

  The filter 25 is an optical low-pass filter that allows passage of light having a wavelength less than or equal to the wavelength of the reflected light Lr, for example, and can block passage of light exceeding the wavelength, and a reading port (not shown) formed in the case. And the imaging lens 27. Thereby, unnecessary light exceeding the wavelength equivalent of the reflected light Lr is prevented from entering the light receiving sensor 23. In addition, the imaging lens 27 includes, for example, a lens barrel and a plurality of condensing lenses housed in the lens barrel. In this configuration, the imaging lens 27 is incident on a reading port (not shown) formed in the case. The reflected light Lr is condensed, and a code image of the information code 100 is formed on the light receiving surface 23 a of the light receiving sensor 23.

  The microcomputer system includes an amplification circuit 31, an A / D conversion circuit 33, a memory 35, an address generation circuit 36, a synchronization signal generation circuit 38, a control circuit 40, an operation switch 42, an LED 43, a buzzer 44, a liquid crystal display 46, and a communication interface 48. Etc. This microcomputer system is configured around a control circuit 40 and a memory 35 that can function as a microcomputer (information processing apparatus), and the image signal of the information code 100 captured by the optical system described above is signaled in hardware and software. It can be processed.

  An image signal (analog signal) output from the light receiving sensor 23 of the optical system is amplified by a predetermined gain by being input to the amplification circuit 31, and then input to the A / D conversion circuit 33, and is converted from the analog signal to the digital signal. Is converted to The digitized image signal, that is, image data (image information) is input to the memory 35 and stored in the image data storage area of the memory 35. The synchronization signal generation circuit 38 is configured to generate a synchronization signal for the light receiving sensor 23 and the address generation circuit 36. The address generation circuit 36 is based on the synchronization signal supplied from the synchronization signal generation circuit 38. Thus, the storage address of the image data stored in the memory 35 can be generated.

  The memory 35 is constituted by, for example, a semiconductor memory device, and corresponds to, for example, a RAM, a ROM, and other nonvolatile memories. In addition to the above-described image data storage area, the RAM of the memory 35 is configured to be able to secure a work area and a reading condition table used by the control circuit 40 in each processing such as arithmetic operation and logical operation. . The ROM stores in advance a predetermined program that can execute a reading process and the like that will be described later, and a system program that can control each piece of hardware such as the illumination light source 21 and the light receiving sensor 23.

  The control circuit 40 is a microcomputer capable of controlling the entire information code reader 10, and includes a CPU, a system bus, an input / output interface, and the like, and has an information processing function. Various input / output devices (peripheral devices) are connected to the control circuit 40 via a built-in input / output interface. In the case of this configuration, the power switch 41, the operation switch 42, the LED 43, the buzzer 44, and the liquid crystal A display 46, a communication interface 48, and the like are connected. The communication interface 48 is a device that can communicate with an external device provided outside the reading device 10 by a known wired communication method or wireless communication method. The reading device 10 transmits information to the external device via the communication interface 48 or receives information from the external device via the communication interface 48.

  The power supply system includes a power switch 41, a battery 49, and the like. When the power switch 41 managed by the control circuit 40 is turned on and off, the conduction of the drive voltage supplied from the battery 49 to each device and each circuit described above is established. Or shut off is controlled. The battery 49 is a secondary battery that can generate a predetermined DC voltage, and corresponds to, for example, a lithium ion battery.

(Information code)
Next, the information code 100 used in the information code using system of FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. The example of FIG. 1 and the example of the right side of FIG. 5 are slightly different in the cell arrangement and the size of the specific pattern, but the basic idea is the same and has the same characteristics. The information code 100 shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 5 is generated by, for example, the information code generation device 2 described above, and has a configuration in which cells 102 serving as units for displaying information are arranged inside a predetermined code area. It has become. In the information code 100 of FIGS. 1 and 5, the “code area” is a rectangular area that can include all of the plurality of dark cells arranged, and is the smallest square that includes all of the cells constituting the information code 100. It is a region or a rectangular region. Specifically, it is a minimum square area or rectangular area including all three position detection patterns (cutout symbols) 104. In the example of FIGS. 1 and 5, the plurality of cells 102 are configured by either a rectangular (for example, a square outer diameter) light (white) cell or a dark (black) cell, Within the code area, these cells 102 are arranged in a matrix around an empty area 110 described later. The light color cell and the dark color cell are not limited to the white cell and the black cell, respectively. When the dark color cell is configured with a predetermined lightness, the light color cell only needs to have a higher lightness. In the information code 100, a light or dark margin area is formed around the code area so as to surround the code area. In the examples of FIGS. A margin area (for example, another color having a lightness higher than that of a white or dark cell) is arranged adjacent to the periphery of the code area.

  The information code 100 includes data in a specific pattern area in which a specific pattern having a predetermined shape is arranged inside a rectangular code area (for example, a square shape or a rectangular shape), and a plurality of types of cells 102. A data recording area for recording and an error correction code recording area for recording an error correction code by a plurality of types of cells 102 are provided. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 5, the specific pattern of the information code 100 is, for example, a known predetermined model number of a QR code (registered trademark) (in the example of FIG. 5, a predetermined model number of a QR code standardized by JIS or the like). ), The position detection pattern (cutout symbol) 104 as the specific pattern is arranged at each of the three corners of the code area in the examples of FIGS. ing. Further, a timing pattern 106 and an alignment pattern 108 as specific patterns are also provided at predetermined positions in the predetermined model number. As described above, in the information code 100, a specific pattern (position detection pattern 104, timing pattern 106, alignment pattern 108 (not shown in FIG. 5)) having a predetermined shape is arranged at a predetermined position. . It should be noted that, within the code area, positions other than the empty area 110, which will be described later, are configured by such specific pattern areas, recording areas (areas consisting of either data recording areas or error correction code recording areas), and the like. Yes.

  The number of rows and columns of cells of the information code 100, the shape and position of a specific pattern, the position of format information, the codeword candidate position (address for specifying the arrangement order of codewords), etc. You may grasp. For example, a plurality of model numbers may be provided in the type of the information code 100. In this case, the number of rows and columns of cells, the shape and position of a specific pattern, the position of format information, and a code word are arranged for each model number. The candidate position (address) may be determined in advance. If the model number information for specifying the model number is arranged at a predetermined position (reservation area) in the code area, the reader device can determine the number of rows and columns of the information code 100 based on the model number information, The shape and position of the specific pattern and the candidate position (address) of the code word can be grasped. Note that the present invention is not limited to this method, and any other method may be used as long as the reader can grasp the method.

  Within the code area, data is not recorded by the cell 102 at any position other than the specific pattern area, data recording area, error correction code recording area, and header storage area, and is subject to error correction using the error correction code. An empty area 110 that is not an area is provided in a size larger than the size of the single cell 102. In the example of FIGS. 1 and 5, the empty area 110 is configured in the center of the code area (a predetermined area including the center of the code area). This empty area 110 is different from the method of recording data in the data recording area at a position other than the specific pattern area, the data recording area, the header storage area (basic information recording area), and the error correction code recording area. This is an area where at least one of recording and design display is possible. The “area where no data is recorded by the cell 102” means an area where a code word such as a data code word or an error correction code word, which will be described later, is not recorded, and where no format information or header data is recorded. It means that there is. The “region not subject to error correction by the error correction code” means a region where error correction using the error correction code recorded in the error correction code recording region is not performed. Therefore, even if some information is recorded in the empty area 110, the error correction for the information is not performed by the error correction code in the error correction code recording area existing around the empty area 110.

  In the following description, a configuration corresponding to the predetermined model number as shown in the right diagram of FIG. 5 is associated with another model number (Ver. Number) having a smaller size than the predetermined model number as illustrated in the left diagram of FIG. An example in which the position of each code word of the information code 100 in the right diagram of FIG. 5 and the position of each code word of the other code 120 in the left diagram of FIG. 5 are associated by the arrangement conversion table as shown in the lower diagram of FIG. Will be described as a representative example. In this example, the amount of data that can be stored in the other type code 120 in the left diagram of FIG. 5 can be expressed by providing an empty area 110 with the information code 100 as shown in the right diagram of FIG. . Conversely, when the information code 100 shown in the right diagram of FIG. 5 is read, each code word of the information code 100 can be read as a code word of another type code 120 as shown in the left diagram of FIG. .

  In the right diagram of FIG. 5, each codeword area arranged around the empty area 110 is conceptually shown by a broken line frame or the like. An area (predetermined position 105) for recording format information is conceptually indicated by a predetermined type of hatching. A header storage area 112 (basic information recording area) for recording header data is conceptually indicated by a two-dot chain line. In the right diagram of FIG. 5, the area for recording the format information, the area for recording the header data, and the area for recording the code word show only the cells, and the specific arrangement of light cells and dark cells is omitted. ing. Further, in the example of the right diagram in FIG. 5, the interior of the empty area 110 (the central part of the code area) is also assigned to correspond to the cell arrangement, but the configuration of the empty area 110 is free, and FIG. It may be configured as described above, or may be other configurations.

  The format information (format information) is configured as shown in FIG. 6, for example, and is recorded at a predetermined position 105 (a predetermined type of hatching position) in the information code 100 with a specific format configuration. This format information includes correction level information for specifying an error correction level and mask number information for specifying a mask number. The correction level information is information for specifying an error correction level used in the information code 100, and corresponds to an error correction level used in the other type code 120 in the case of being converted into the other type code 120 and read, for example. The mask number is information for specifying which mask type is the mask applied to the codeword area of the information code 100 (area in which the data codeword and error correction codeword are recorded).

  As shown in FIG. 6, the format information is recorded in a state reflecting a predetermined type of mask pattern (specific mask), and the format information is identified by identifying the mask type of the format information in the same manner as a known QR code. 5 It is possible to detect a specific code type (type provided with a free area 110) as shown in the right figure. For example, when the model 1 is configured as a QR code of a known standard, data (cell array) expressed when the model 1 mask is applied to the format information as shown in FIG. 6 is recorded at a predetermined position. However, when configured as the model 2, data (cell array) expressed when the model 2 mask is applied to the format information as shown in FIG. 6 is recorded at a predetermined position. . On the other hand, in the information code 100 of this embodiment shown in FIG. 5 (special type code having a free area 110), a specific mask of a different type from the models 1 and 2 (FIG. 6) for the format information as shown in FIG. Then, data (cell array) expressed when frame QR is used is recorded at a predetermined position 105. Then, in any of the types 1 and 2 of the known standard and the type of the information code 100, a check digit corresponding to the correction level (correction level information) and mask number (mask number information) to be recorded is added. Format information is configured, on which various types of masks can be applied. Specifically, mask processing is performed by a known method using various types of mask patterns, and the bit pattern after the mask processing is recorded at a predetermined position 105. Therefore, when the format information is subjected to a specific mask (for example, for frame QR in FIG. 6) and recorded at the predetermined position 105 as in the information code 100, the information recorded at the predetermined position 105 in this way is recorded. If the mask process is canceled and decoded based on the specific mask, the check digit is matched, so that the type of the information code 100 can be specified. On the contrary, even if the data at the predetermined position 105 of the information code 100 is removed based on the masks of the model 1 and model 2, the check digit does not match. be able to.

  In this information code 100, after detecting a specific pattern (position detection pattern 104, etc.) and specifying the code area, code direction, and each cell position in the same manner as the known QR code, the same as the known QR code. By decoding the predetermined position 105 where the format information is recorded by the method, it is possible to identify the type of the information code 100 (special type having the empty area 110) according to the type of the mask that has been successfully decoded. The predetermined position 105 where the format information is recorded is fixed in a positional relationship in which the relative positional relationship with respect to the position detection pattern 104 is fixed. Therefore, if the position detection pattern 104 is detected, the predetermined position 105 is determined. The position of the predetermined position 105 can be specified according to the positional relationship. The error correction level used in the information code 100 can be specified by the format information obtained by decoding the cell array at the predetermined position 105 specified in this way, and the code word area (data code by cell) of the information code 100 can be specified. It is possible to specify the type of mask applied to a word or an area where an error correction code word is recorded.

  As conceptually shown in FIG. 3, the information code 100 records format information, header data (frame QR header), input data (data to be decoded), error correction code (error correction data), and the like. Of these, format information and header data are recorded in a predetermined fixed area (static area). For example, the format information is recorded in the predetermined area 105 shown in FIG. 5, and the header data is recorded in the header storage area 112 shown in FIG. Input data (data to be decoded) and error correction code (error correction data) are recorded as code words in a dynamic area where recording of the code words is scheduled. Note that the header data used in the information code 100 is also referred to as a “frame QR header” in the following description. In the example of FIG. 3, the input data (data to be decoded) is compressed by, for example, a known method and converted into a data word (data code word). However, such compression may not be performed. .

  In this specification, an area for recording a data word (data code word) of input data (data to be decoded) corresponds to an example of a “data recording area”. An area for recording an error correction code, which will be described later, corresponds to an example of an error correction code recording area. Furthermore, a header storage area 112 for recording header data (frame QR header) corresponds to an example of a basic information recording area.

  The header storage area 112 is an area for recording basic information (header data) for reading input data (data to be decoded) recorded in the data recording area. In the example of FIG. 3, as header data (frame QR header), other type code 120 (a code type used for decoding the information code 100, which will be described later), corresponds to the information code 100 by the arrangement conversion table (FIG. 5). Information (identified as Ver. Number in FIG. 3), identification information that can identify the “form” in the free area, and the position in the free area 110 The “free area position information” to be obtained is recorded. Furthermore, “specific information” is recorded, and this specific information is information for specifying a cell evaluation method in a feature area described later. The specific information will be described in detail later.

  In the example of FIGS. 3 and 5, information that can specify the column position and the row position of the empty area 110 is recorded as empty area position information (position data). More specifically, the upper left of the empty area 110 when the rectangular information code 100 as shown in FIG. 5 is divided into a grid so that the rectangular small areas are arranged in a plurality of rows and columns. The combination of the row position and the column position and the combination of the lower right row position and the column position of the empty area 110 are recorded as empty area position information (position data). Here, the information (13, 10) indicating the combination of the upper left row position and the column position of the empty area 110 and the information (24, 23) indicating the combination of the lower right row position and the column position of the empty area 110. Are used as space area position information (position data). The example of the free area position information is not limited to such information, and a combination of the row position and the column position at each of the four corners of the free area 110 may be used as the free area position information (position data).

  Further, in this configuration, as shown in FIG. 3, a plurality of code words are recorded in the dynamic area, and the data string recorded in the dynamic area includes input data (data to be decoded). The data string is such that a plurality of error correction code words (ECC words) representing an error correction code for performing error correction of the input data follow a plurality of code words (data code words). In the information code 100, an area for recording input data (data to be decoded) is a data recording area, and an area for recording an error correction code is an error correction code recording area. A method for generating an error correction code (error correction code word) for correcting an error of the input data (decoding object data) based on a data word (data code word) of the input data (decoding object data) is as follows. A method defined by a standard of a known two-dimensional code (QR code or the like) can be used. For example, as a method for generating an error correction codeword based on a data word (data codeword), an error correction codeword generation method (JISX0510: 2004, 8.5 error correction) defined in JISX0510: 2004 is used. be able to. Note that the method of generating the error correction codeword is not limited to this, and various known methods can be used.

  In the information code 100, each data word (data code word) representing the input data (data to be decoded) and an error correction code word are arranged in the code area based on predetermined arrangement position information. . In this configuration, as shown in FIG. 5, the placement position of each codeword is defined in advance in a predetermined dynamic area secured in the code area of the information code 100, and each placement candidate position has a number ( Address) is assigned. The arrangement position information is information for specifying which arrangement candidate position each code word constituting the recording contents (contents to be recorded in the dynamic area) shown in FIG. 3 should be arranged. In the example shown in the right diagram of FIG. 5, the arrangement candidate positions 1 to 25 in the dynamic region are schematically illustrated. At each arrangement candidate position, the first and last bit portions are numbered. It is clearly indicated. In the right diagram of FIG. 5, the arrangement candidate positions after the 26th are omitted.

  Specifically, in the model number of the other type code 120 (known QR code) (the model number of the other type code 120 specified by the header data shown in FIG. 3), the code word in each order is assigned to which code word in the other type code 120. Whether or not to be arranged at a position is determined in advance by a known standard or the like, and when the other-type code 120 is decoded, the code words in each order are decoded based on the arrangement determined in this way. For example, in the example of another type code 120 (general, QR code) shown in the left diagram of FIG. The position of each code word is determined in advance, for example, such that the code word is arranged on the code word. Therefore, when decoding this other type code 120, the 0th code word, the 1st code word, the 2nd code word, the 3rd code word, etc. based on the arrangement determined in this way. It will be deciphered in order. Note that the arrangement of codewords shown in the left diagram of FIG. 5 is merely an example for explanation, and is not limited to this arrangement.

  On the other hand, in the arrangement position information (arrangement conversion table) shown in FIG. 5, the numbers of the arrangement positions (arrangement positions of the code words in each order) determined in advance by the other type code 120 in this way are stored in advance in the information code 100. Each number is associated with a number of a determined candidate position (position candidate position of each code word). Specifically, “the arrangement position of the first code word in the other type code 120 corresponds to the first arrangement candidate position of the information code 100”, “the arrangement position of the second code word in the other type code 120 is information. Information such as “corresponding to the second arrangement candidate position of the code 100” and “the arrangement position of the third code word in the other type code 120 corresponds to the third arrangement candidate position of the information code 100” is, for example, table data Each code word is recorded, and the arrangement position of each numbered code word in the other type code 120 is associated with each arrangement candidate position of the information code 100. Thus, when the information code 100 is decoded, the code word (code word at each address) in each placement candidate position in the code area is associated with the placement position information (placement conversion table). The other-type code 120 may be rearranged at each arrangement position, and the other-type code 120 rearranged in this way may be decoded by a known method. For example, when the information code 100 is decoded using the arrangement conversion table shown in the lower diagram of FIG. 5, the code word at the first arrangement candidate position of the information code 100 is changed to the arrangement position of the first code word in the other type code 120. The code word at the second placement candidate position of the information code 100 is placed at the placement position of the second code word in the other code 120, and the code word at the Nth placement candidate position of the information code 100 is placed in the other kind. The code 120 is rearranged in such a manner as to be arranged at the arrangement position of the M-th code word associated with the N-th arrangement candidate position, and the other type code (re-arranged in this way) QR code) may be decoded by a known method. As for the above-described arrangement position information (arrangement conversion table), data (common arrangement conversion table) common to the information code generation apparatus 2 that generates the information code 100 and the information code reading apparatus 10 that reads the information code 100 are respectively provided. It is desirable to be provided.

(Information code generation process)
Next, an information code generation process and an information code generation method will be described with reference to FIG. Hereinafter, as shown in FIG. 5, a case where the other type code 120 is a QR code (registered trademark) and the information code 100 has a specific pattern (position detection pattern 104) similar to the QR code will be described as an example. In this example, the information code 100 having the free area 110 is also referred to as “frame QR”.

  The information code generation process of FIG. 7 is a process performed by the information code generation device 2 and is started by a predetermined operation on the operation unit 4, for example. In this processing, first, data to be encoded from outside (decoding target data), attribute data, and code type data (information code 100 is generated, or a general two-dimensional code (for example, a general QR code) is generated. (Data specifying whether to generate) (S1). In this configuration, the control unit 3 and the operation unit 4 correspond to an example of a “data acquisition unit” and function to acquire data to be decoded (input data from the outside). Further, the present invention is not limited to such an example. For example, the control unit 3 and the communication unit 7 may be configured as a “data acquisition unit” and function to acquire data input from outside through communication as decryption target data. Good.

  After acquiring the data in S1, a method for compressing the acquired data is determined by a known method (S2), and the compressed data (decoded data) is expressed by a plurality of data words (data code words). (S3). After S3, it is determined whether or not the code type data acquired in S1 is the type (frame QR) of the information code 100 having the free area 110. If the code type data acquired in S1 is the type (frame QR) of the information code 100 having the free area 110, the process proceeds to Yes in S4, and the type of the information code 100 having the free area 110 (frame QR). ) To generate unique header data (described above). In the header data of FIG. 3, as described above, information (version number information etc.) that can specify the type (model number) of the other type code 120 shown in the right diagram of FIG. 5 and information that specifies the format of the free area 110 (First information), information that can specify a position in the free space 110 ("free space position information" corresponding to the second information), and specific information (third information) to be described later are recorded. Become. On the other hand, when the code type data acquired in S1 is not the type (frame QR) of the information code 100 having the empty area 110 (data for selecting a general two-dimensional code (for example, selecting model 1 or model 2) If (data), the process proceeds to No in S4.

  When the process proceeds to No in S4, an error correction code is generated by a known method based on the configuration of the data word (data code word) generated in S3, and a plurality of error correction words (error correction) representing the error correction code are generated. Codeword) is generated (S6). On the other hand, also when the process proceeds from S4 to S5, an error correction code is generated by a known method based on the configuration of the data word (a plurality of data code words representing the input data) generated in S3. Is generated (S6).

  After S6, it is determined whether or not the code type data acquired in S1 is the type (frame QR) of the information code 100 having the free area 110 (S7), and the code type data acquired in S1 is If it is not the type (frame QR) of the information code 100 having the free area 110, the process proceeds to No in S7, and a two-dimensional code (for example, QR code) is generated by a known method. When the process proceeds to No in S7, the model number of the two-dimensional code having a size capable of storing the data word (data code word) generated in S3 and the error correction word (error correction code word) generated in S6 (in this example, In a plurality of standardized known QR code model numbers, a model number of a size that can store the data word generated in S3 and the error correction word generated in S6) is determined, and the arrangement predetermined by the model number is determined. According to the pattern, the data word generated in S3 and the error correction word generated in S6 are arranged (S9).

  On the other hand, if the code type data acquired in S1 is the type (frame QR) of the information code 100 having the free area 110, the process proceeds to Yes in S7, and the data word (data code word generated in S3) ), The error correction word (error correction code word) generated in S6, and the empty area, the model number of the information code 100 that can be stored is determined (S10). Note that the size of the empty area may be a predetermined fixed size, or may be designated by an input or the like by the user before S10. Further, the size of the empty area may be specified by the number of rows and the number of columns, or may be specified by information such as how many words it corresponds to, or how many cells it corresponds. In the example of FIGS. 5 and 7, for example, in a plurality of model numbers (sizes) determined in advance by the type of the information code 100, the data word (data code word) generated in S3 and the error correction word ( Error correction codeword), and a model number of a size that can store an empty area. When a plurality of model numbers can be used for the type of the information code 100, the number of rows and columns, the shape and layout of a specific pattern, the layout of format information (predetermined area), header data (header storage) for each model number Area) and the candidate position of each code word may be determined. Further, when there are a plurality of model numbers having a size capable of storing the data word (data code word) generated in S3, the error correction word (error correction code word) generated in S6, and the empty area, The smallest model number (size) may be determined, or the user may be able to specify one of the model numbers (sizes). When the information code 100 is generated, a predetermined size (number of rows and columns), a specific pattern arrangement, and each arrangement position position of the codeword are used in the model number thus determined. The arrangement position of each code word is determined according to the above-described arrangement conversion table (the arrangement conversion table associated with this model number). In the following, an example in which the model number as shown in the right diagram of FIG. 5 is determined in S10 will be specifically described.

  After S10, the data word (data code word) generated in S3 and the error correction word (error correction code word) generated in S6 are arranged based on the arrangement position information (arrangement conversion table) described above. Become. In the information code generation device 2, the above-described arrangement position information (arrangement conversion table) is stored in the storage unit 5, and in this arrangement conversion table, as described above, each arrangement position (each (Order position of code word) is associated with a predetermined candidate position (position candidate position of each code word) in information code 100, respectively. In the process of S11, the code words to be recorded (the data word (data code word) generated in S3 and the error correction word (error correction code word) generated in S6) are shown in the left diagrams of FIGS. Each code word when expressed by another type code 120 (two-dimensional code having a size smaller than that of the information code 100 and capable of storing the data word generated in S3 and the error correction word generated in S6) In the information code 100, the codewords in each order are associated with the codeword arrangement positions in the respective order by the arrangement position information (arrangement conversion table). It arrange | positions at each arrangement | positioning candidate position. For example, in the arrangement position information (arrangement conversion table) in FIG. 5, the arrangement position of the first code word in the other type code 120 is associated with the first arrangement candidate position of the information code 100. Of the code words to be recorded (the data word generated in S3 and the error correction word generated in S6), the first code word is arranged at the first arrangement candidate position in the information code 100. In addition, since the second code word arrangement position in the other type code 120 and the second arrangement candidate position of the information code 100 are associated with each other, the second code word among the code words to be recorded Is placed at the second candidate position in the information code 100. In this way, the arrangement position (an arrangement position of the Nth code word) in the other type code 120 in which the Nth code word is arranged in the codeword to be recorded and the Mth arrangement candidate position of the information code 100 are as follows. If they are associated with each other, the Nth codeword among the codewords to be recorded is arranged at the Mth arrangement candidate position in the information code 100.

  That is, if only the data word generated in S3 and the error correction word generated in S6 can be expressed by another type code 120 (configured as a known QR code) smaller than the information code 100, S3 When the data word generated in step S6, the error correction word generated in step S6, and the empty area 110 are stored, it is necessary to represent the information code 100 having a size larger than this. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the data word generated in S3, the error correction word generated in S6, and the empty area 110 are represented by the information code 100 having a size larger than the other type code 120, and generated in S3. Data words and the arrangement of code words when the error correction word generated in S6 is expressed by another type code 120 (known QR code), and code words when stored in the information code 100 having a larger size The correspondence relationship with each arrangement can be specified by a predetermined arrangement conversion table.

  In the process of S11, final header data (frame QR header) is arranged in the header storage area 112 (static area). When there is no feature area to be described later, the header data is data generated in S5. When there is a feature area, the header data is specified information (feature) Information) is added data. In any case, the final header data is arranged in a predetermined fixed area (header storage area 112).

  After S9 or S11, a mask pattern to be applied to the code word whose placement location has been determined in S9 or S11 is determined by a known predetermined method (for example, a known method used in QR code), and the determined mask. Masking is performed by a known mask processing method so that the pattern is reflected in the code word whose location is determined in S9 or S11 (S12). Then, the check digit is calculated based on the mask pattern information (mask number) and error correction level information set in S12, and the format information including the error correction level, mask number, and check digit is generated as shown in FIG. (S13). Note that data such as a mask number and an error correction level to be recorded as format information may be input in S1.

  If the code type data acquired in S1 is the type (frame QR) of the information code 100 having the free area 110, the process proceeds to Yes in S14, and the format information generated in S13 includes the above-described format information. Mask processing is performed to reflect the specific mask (frame QR mask) (see FIG. 6). On the other hand, if the code type data acquired in S1 is not the type (frame QR) of the information code 100 having the empty area 110, the process proceeds to No in S14, and the mask pattern is different from the mask pattern set in S16. Set the mask (model 1 mask or model 2 mask). After masking the format information in S15 or S16, the format information after the mask processing is arranged in a predetermined area 105 (static area) in the code area (S17).

  After the specific pattern area, the data recording area, the error correction area, the predetermined area 105 (format area), and the header storage area 112 are thus configured, the constituent elements of the empty area 110 are arranged (S18). In the example of FIG. 3, since the position of the empty area is designated by the row position and the column position, in S18, the image data of the empty area 110 is arranged at the designated position. Note that the data represented in the free space 110 may be acquired in S1, for example (for example, acquired by input from an external device or reading of image data stored in the generation device 2).

  In addition, after the information code 100 or another two-dimensional code is generated in this way, the code may be printed by the printing unit 8. Alternatively, instead of printing, the information code 100 or the like may be displayed on the display unit 6, or data such as the information code 100 may be transmitted to an external device (for example, an information device such as a portable terminal or a computer). Good.

(Feature area)
Next, further characteristics for generating the information code will be described.
The information code 100 can be generated according to the flow shown in FIG. Further, when the information code 100 is generated, further features can be added.

  FIG. 8 shows a rectangular (for example, square or rectangular) code area Ca1 secured in generating the information code 100, and an area when the code area Ca1 is divided into a plurality of small areas Ca2. The structure is shown conceptually. Specifically, the direction of a predetermined one side (one side in the horizontal direction) at the outer edge of the rectangular code area Ca1 is the row direction, and the direction orthogonal to the one side direction is the column direction, and the outer edge is rectangular. Small regions configured in a square shape (for example, a square shape or a rectangular shape) are arranged in a matrix. The code area Ca1 is divided into a plurality of columns (columns of small areas Ca2) by a vertical boundary line (vertical boundary line set at equal intervals) set inside, and a horizontal boundary line (e.g. It is divided into a plurality of rows (rows of the small area Ca2) by a horizontal boundary line set at intervals.

  When the information code 100 is generated by the information code generating device 2, the information code 100 is arranged in such a manner that the cells 102 serving as units for displaying information are arranged in each of the plurality of small areas Ca1 defined in the code area Ca1. 100 will be generated. In the example of FIG. 1, in each area other than the empty area 110, each small area is represented by a square figure filled in black or a square figure filled in white. The state can be set to a predetermined state other than such a figure. Below, the method is demonstrated.

  In the basic generation process described with reference to FIG. 7, when the model number of the information code 100 (frame QR) is determined in S10, the basic structure (basic structure previously associated with the model number) in the code area Ca1 is obtained. decide. Specifically, the number of rows and columns of the code area Ca1 is determined, the position of the specific pattern area where the position detection pattern 104 and the timing pattern 106 are arranged, the position of the predetermined area 105 where the format information is arranged, header information The position of the header storage area 112 where the data is arranged, the position of the code word area 114, the address of each code word, and the like are also determined. In addition to the method described above, another method (for example, a method in which the user inputs and specifies the model number in S10) can be used as the method for determining the model number of the information code 100 (frame QR).

  Here, a case where a model number having a basic structure as shown in FIG. 9 is selected in the process of S10 of FIG. In the model number having the basic structure as shown in FIG. 9, the position detection pattern 104 having the same structure as the cut-out symbol of the QR code (registered trademark), the L-shaped separator 109 having the same structure as the QR code (registered trademark) separator, The timing pattern 106 having the same structure as the QR code (registered trademark) timing pattern is a specific pattern, and these arrangement areas are specific pattern areas. The position detection pattern 104, the separator 109, and the timing pattern 106 have the same shape and position as those of the QR code position detection pattern, separator, and timing pattern that have the same number of cell rows and cell columns as the structure in FIG. It has become. FIG. 9 specifically shows the structure of each small area Ca2 only for the specific pattern area. Each small area Ca2 is filled with a black color, and each small area Ca2 is filled with a white color. This is the specific pattern area.

Next, the figure of each cell 102 constituting the code word area 114 will be described.
FIG. 10A shows the outer edge of the maximum region (small region Ca2) in which one cell can be arranged by a two-dot chain line. In this configuration, a plurality of types of dark cells 102b are prepared as the dark cells 102b that can be arranged in the small region Ca2. For example, as shown in FIG. 10B, all regions in the small region Ca2 are dark ( For example, dark cell B1 (type 1) made black), dark cell B2 (type 2) in which a part of the small area Ca2 is crescent shaped as shown in FIG. 10C, as shown in FIG. 10D. In addition, a dark cell B3 (type) in which a partial region in the small region Ca2 has a donut shape, another type of dark cell (not shown), and the like are prepared. Also, as the light cell 102w that can be arranged in the small region Ca2, a plurality of types of light cells 102w are prepared. For example, as shown in FIG. 10E, the entire region is light (for example, white). The bright color cell W1 (type 1) and other types of bright color cells (not shown) (for example, a figure obtained by turning a figure as shown in FIGS. 10C and 10D, etc.) are prepared. .

  In the processing of FIG. 7 described above, when a code word is arranged in S11, unless otherwise specified, a dark cell as shown in FIG. ) Or a light cell as shown in FIG. 10E (a cell in which the entire small area is filled with a light color (for example, white)) is arranged.

  FIG. 11A conceptually shows a plurality of small areas Ca <b> 2 that constitute a part of the code word area 114. In FIG. 11A, for the sake of convenience, numbers are given to the small areas for convenience. In such a partial region, when the regions 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 11, 14, 16 are represented by the dark cell 102b and the other regions are represented by the light cell 102w, the dark cell 102b As shown in FIG. 10B, the entire small region Ca2 is a cell B1 that is filled with a dark color (for example, black). For the bright cell 102w, the entire small region Ca2 as shown in FIG. When the cells are filled with (for example, white), the arrangement and structure of the cells in this partial region are as shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, if there is a designation to change any kind of cell to a feature structure in a part or all of the codeword area 114 (FIG. 9), the designated type of cell is changed to the designated area. Arrange with the specified feature structure. In other words, when such a designation is made, at least a part or all of the cell arrangement area other than the specific pattern area 104 within the code area Ca1 conceptually shown in FIG. 9 is included in the feature area (small area Ca2). The area in which the cell state is set to a predetermined state). Such designation may be made in S1 or in S11.

  For example, a partial area as shown in FIG. 11A is designated, and in this partial area, areas 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 11, 14, and 16 are represented by dark cells 102b, and others In this case, the dark cell 102b is designated to be in the characteristic state as shown in FIG. 10C, and the bright cell 102w is designated to be in the state as shown in FIG. In this case, this partial area is expressed as shown in FIG.

  As another example, a partial area as shown in FIG. 11A is designated, and in this partial area, the areas 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 11, 14, and 16 are represented by dark cells 102b. When the other area is represented by the light cell 102w, the dark cell 102b is designated to be in the characteristic state as shown in FIG. 10D, and the light cell 102w is designated to be in the state as shown in FIG. If there is, this partial area is expressed as shown in FIG.

  Further, such cell state designation can be performed separately for each of a plurality of areas set in the code word area 114. For example, when the information code 100 (frame QR) having the model number as shown in FIG. 9 is generated, the area E1 (see FIG. 18) is designated in the processing of S11 of FIG. In the state shown in FIG. 10C, when there is a designation (for example, designation by an input made by the user) to change the light cell in this area E1 to the state shown in FIG. 10E, the light cell in this area E1. The structures of the dark cells are the same as those of the light cells and dark cells shown in FIG. Further, in the process of S11 of FIG. 7, the area E2 (see FIG. 18) is designated, the dark cell in this area E2 is set to the state shown in FIG. 10D, and the light cell in this area E2 is set as shown in FIG. When designated to be in the state, the structure of the light cell and the dark cell in the area E2 is the same as the structure of the light cell and the dark cell shown in FIG. Note that for regions not specified (regions other than the individual regions E1 and E2), the default light / dark structure (for example, dark cells are in the state shown in FIG. 10B), and light cells are shown in FIG. )).

  When such a feature area is provided, specific information for specifying a cell evaluation method in a small area in the feature area is generated, and this specific information is finally stored in the header storage area 112 (basic information recording Area). For example, as shown in FIG. 18, when the characteristic area is configured by a plurality of types of individual areas E1 and E2 and the cell state is determined for each individual area, each position of each individual area is specified. Individual area position information and individual area evaluation information for specifying a cell evaluation method in a small area of each individual area are respectively generated, and the header storage area 112 (basic information recording area) is used as specific information. To record. FIG. 15 conceptually shows this specific information. As information regarding the individual area E1, area position information (individual area position information) for specifying the position of the individual area E1 in the code area Ca1 and the individual area E1 are shown. Is associated with cell position information (individual region evaluation information) for specifying a cell position in the small region Ca2. Further, as information related to the individual area E2, area position information (individual area position information) for specifying the position of the individual area E2 in the code area Ca1, and a cell for specifying the cell position in the small area Ca2 of the individual area E2 Position information (individual region evaluation information) is associated with the information.

  As the area position information (individual area position information) for specifying the positions of the individual areas E1 and E2 in the code area Ca1, for example, the coordinates of the four corners of the individual areas E1 and E2 (each of the four corners of the individual area) For example, a combination of a row position and a column position of a small area). For example, as information for specifying the individual area E1, information on the row position and the column position of each small area at the four corners of the area E1 may be used. Alternatively, the address of the code word included in the individual area E1 may be used as the area position information. The position information is not limited to this example, and various pieces of position information can be used as long as the information can identify the position of the individual area E1 in the code area. The same applies to the individual area E2, and as information for specifying the individual area E2, information on the row position and column position of each small area at the four corners of the area E2 may be used. The position may be specified.

  Next, evaluation information (individual region evaluation information) determined for each individual region will be described. In this configuration, the arrangement and shape of the cells in the small area Ca2 in each individual area constituting the feature area are set to a predetermined cell arrangement and a predetermined cell shape, and each individual area is associated with this individual area. Thus, cell position information (individual area evaluation information for specifying a cell evaluation method in the small area in the individual area) for generating a cell position in the small area of the individual area is generated.

  Here, cell position information determined for each individual area will be described. In this configuration, a code area Ca1 in which a large number of small areas Ca2 are set is assumed as shown in FIG. 8, and each small area Ca2 is divided into predetermined subdivisions as shown in FIG. It is assumed that the method is divided into a plurality of subdivided regions. For example, the direction of a predetermined one side (one side in the horizontal direction) at the outer edge of the rectangular small region Ca2 is the row direction, and the direction orthogonal to the direction of this one piece is the column direction, and the outer edge is rectangular (for example, The subdivided areas A1 to A25 configured in a square shape or a rectangular shape are arranged in a matrix. The small area Ca2 is divided into a plurality of columns (columns of subdivided areas) by a vertical boundary line (vertical boundary line set at equal intervals) set inside, and a horizontal boundary line (etc.) It is divided into a plurality of rows (rows of subdivided areas) by a horizontal boundary line set at intervals.

  When providing a feature area, cell position information can be determined for each individual area. For example, as shown in FIG. 12A, a dark cell B2 as shown in FIG. 10C is used as the dark cell, and a light cell W1 as shown in FIG. 10E is used as the light cell. In this case, as shown in FIG. 14A, among the plurality of subdivided areas A1 to A25 (FIG. 13), information on “area A11” in which the dark cell B2 exists at least at the center position is used as the cell for the individual area. It can be position information. If a part of the individual area E1 shown in FIG. 18 has a light-dark structure as shown in FIG. 12A, such information of “area A11” is used as cell position information for the individual area E1. In this case, when determining the brightness of the small area Ca2 of the individual area E1, the luminance extracted from the area A11 (subdivided area) of each small area Ca2 (specifically, the vertical and horizontal directions in the area A11). It is possible to determine whether each small area Ca cell is a light cell or a dark cell by determining whether or not the luminance extracted from the center position of the direction exceeds a threshold value. Specifically, when the brightness of the center position P11 of the area A11 in the small area Ca2 exceeds the threshold value, the small area Ca2 is determined as a bright cell, and the brightness of the center position P11 of the area A11 in the small area Ca2 is determined. In the case of the threshold value or less, there is a method of determining this small area Ca2 as a dark cell.

  In the dark cell B2 as shown in FIG. 10C and FIG. 12A, when a normal method for evaluating the luminance at the center position of the small region is used, as shown in FIG. However, it is determined as a light cell. On the other hand, as described above, according to the cell position information, the position of the “area A11” is set as the cell position, and the brightness of this position is determined (for example, the luminance of the center position P11 in the vertical and horizontal directions of the area A11 is If the method of determining light and dark according to whether or not the threshold value is exceeded is used, it becomes easy to accurately determine a dark cell as shown in FIG. In addition, as described above, if the area A11 where dark colors are more concentrated is designated as the cell position information, even if blurring occurs as shown in FIG.

  In addition, when the individual area has a light / dark structure as shown in FIG. 12A, the method of accurately determining the light / dark is that the information on the area A11 (subdivided area) is cell position information as shown in FIG. It is not restricted to the example. For example, as shown in FIG. 14B, among the plurality of subdivided areas A1 to A25, information on the subdivided areas A6, A11, and A16 in which the dark cell is arranged at the center position is used as the cell for the individual area. It may be position information. In this case, when determining the brightness of the small area Ca2 in the individual area, for example, the average of the luminance extracted from the center positions of the areas A6, A11, A16 (each subdivided area) in the small area Ca2 It is possible to determine whether each small region Ca cell is a light cell or a dark cell by determining whether or not the threshold value exceeds a threshold value. Specifically, when the average value of the luminances of the center positions P6, P11, and P16 of the areas A6, A11, and A16 in the small area Ca2 exceeds the threshold value, the small area Ca2 is determined as a light cell and is equal to or less than the threshold value. In this case, a method of determining the small area Ca2 as a dark cell can be used.

  Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 12B, a dark cell B3 as shown in FIG. 10D is used as the dark cell 102b, and a light cell W1 as shown in FIG. 10E is used as the light cell 102w. Is used, information of “area A3” among the plurality of subdivided areas A1 to A25 (FIG. 13) can be used as cell position information for the individual area. If a part of the individual area E2 shown in FIG. 18 has a light-dark structure as shown in FIG. 12B, such information of “area A3” is used as cell position information for the individual area E2. In this case, when determining the brightness of the small area Ca2 of the individual area E2, the luminance extracted from the area A3 (subdivided area) of each small area Ca2 (specifically, the vertical and horizontal directions in the area A3). It is possible to determine whether each small area Ca cell is a light cell or a dark cell by determining whether or not the luminance extracted from the center position of the direction exceeds a threshold value. Specifically, when the luminance at the center position of the area A3 in the small area Ca2 exceeds a threshold value, the small area Ca2 is determined as a light cell, and when the luminance is equal to or smaller than the threshold value, the small area Ca2 is determined as a dark cell. The method of judging that.

  Note that when the individual area has a light-dark structure as shown in FIG. 12B, the method for accurately determining light and dark is not limited to the example in which the information of the area A3 (segmented area) is used as the cell position information. For example, information of “areas A3, A11, A15, and A23” among the plurality of subdivided areas A1 to A25 may be used as the cell position information for the individual area. In this case, when determining the brightness of the small area Ca2 in the individual area, for example, the luminance extracted from the center position of the areas A3, A11, A15, and A23 (each subdivided area) in the small area Ca2. It is possible to determine whether the cells of each small area Ca are light cells or dark cells by determining whether the average of the above exceeds a threshold value. Specifically, when the average value of the luminances of the central positions of the areas A3, A11, A15, and A23 in the small area Ca2 exceeds the threshold value, the small area Ca2 is determined as a light cell, and when it is equal to or smaller than the threshold value. The method of determining this small area | region Ca2 as a dark color cell is mentioned.

  As described above, the cell position information determined for each individual area includes at least a cell among the plurality of subdivided areas A1 to A25 configured by dividing the small area Ca2 by a predetermined subdividing method. The area designation information designates the area (specifically, the area where both the light cell and the dark cell are present at the center position).

  As described above, when the internal structure of the codeword region 114 is determined and the feature region is provided, the specific information for specifying the cell evaluation method in the small region in the feature region and the position of the feature region are Feature area position information for specifying is generated in advance. For example, as shown in FIG. 18, when the characteristic area is composed of a plurality of types of individual areas E1, E2, and the cell state is determined for each individual area, each individual area E1 is shown in FIG. , E2 respectively, and individual area position information for specifying the cell evaluation method in a small area of each individual area is generated. The specific information for each individual area thus generated (individual area position information and individual area evaluation information determined for each individual area: see FIG. 15) is stored in the header as a part of the header data as shown in FIG. It is stored in the area 112 (basic information recording area). The specific information generated in S11 may be added to the header data generated in S5, and the finally generated header data may be arranged in the header storage area in S11.

  As described above, when the information code generating device 2 generates the information code 100 (frame QR) having the feature area, the basic information recording area (header storage area 112) is set in a predetermined fixed area in the code area. The information code 100 is generated in the form provided.

(Information code reading process)
Next, processing when the information code 100 shown in the right diagram of FIG. 5, FIG. 9, etc. is read by the information code reader 10 of FIG. 2 will be described. The reading process in FIG. 19 is executed, for example, when a predetermined operation (for example, operation of the operation switch 42) is performed by the user. First, the two-dimensional code in the imaging area of the light receiving sensor 23 is imaged. Thus, the captured image of the two-dimensional code is acquired and the shape of the two-dimensional code is detected. Specifically, a known method is used to recognize the position detection pattern 104 and detect the outer shape of the two-dimensional code. For example, the position detection pattern 104 is detected by a known method for detecting a 1: 1: 3: 1: 1 waveform performed by a QR code (registered trademark) (S201), and the outer shape of the imaged two-dimensional code is detected. Is detected by a known method performed with a QR code (registered trademark) (S202). In the configuration capable of performing such outer shape detection processing, when the information code 100 is captured, the outer shape of the information code 100 is detected. Note that the outer shape detection method may be another method as long as it can detect the shape of a specific pattern or the outer shape of a two-dimensional code.
In this configuration, the light receiving sensor 23 corresponds to an example of an “imaging unit” and functions to image the information code 100 generated by the information code generation device 2.

  When the outer shape of the information code 100 is detected and the code area of the information code 100 can be extracted, the information (format information) at the predetermined position 105 of the information code 100 is decoded, and the type and mask correction of the captured information code A level is acquired (S203). Specifically, for example, the information recorded at the predetermined position 105 as described above is released from the mask processing based on the above-described specific mask (frame QR mask), and is attempted to be decoded. When the check digit matches when the mask processing is canceled by the above-described method for canceling the mask of the specific mask (that is, calculated based on the correction level data and the mask number data when the predetermined position 105 is decoded) When the check digit matches the check digit recorded at the predetermined position 105), it is possible to specify the type of the information code 100 (the frame QR that is a type having the free area 110), and format information Thus, the error correction level and mask number included in can be acquired.

  After S203, the mask of the entire code is released based on the mask number included in the format information decoded in S203 (S204). Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the type of the information code 100 (frame QR) is based on the read result of the format information. If the type is the type of the information code 100 (frame QR), that is, based on the specific mask described above. If the mask processing of the predetermined area 105 is cancelled, the process proceeds to Yes in S205. On the other hand, when the mask processing is canceled by a mask other than the specific mask (mask for frame QR) such as the mask for model 1 and the mask for model 2 shown in FIG. 6, the process proceeds to No in S205.

  When the process proceeds to Yes in S205, the header data (frame QR header) recorded in the header storage area 112 is read (S206). Then, from this header data, the model number and format of the information code 100 (frame QR), the position information of the empty area, the specific information, and the like are read. Based on the model number specified by this processing, the basic structure as shown in FIG. 9, that is, the number of rows and columns of the code area, the arrangement of the specific pattern area, and the like are specified (S207).

  After S207, a code word area is specified (S208). In the information code 100 (frame QR), the code word arrangement candidate position is determined for each model number. Therefore, if the model number is specified by the header data, each code word arrangement candidate position in the code area is specified. Will be. If the arrangement conversion table similar to that in FIG. 5 exists in the reading device 10, which code word (data code word and error correction code word) at each arrangement candidate position of the information code 100 as shown in the right figure of FIG. Whether to read in order can be specified. When the process proceeds to No in S205, in S208, the area of each code word in the QR code is specified in the same manner as when reading a general QR code (registered trademark).

  After S208, it is determined whether the reading target is the type of information code 100 (frame QR). If the reading target is a general QR code (registered trademark), the process proceeds to No in S209, binarization processing is performed by a known method (S211), and then the contents of each code word are decoded. When performing binarization processing in S211, for example, the brightness of the center position of each small area is compared with a predetermined threshold, and a small area whose center brightness exceeds the threshold is determined to be a bright cell area, A binarization process may be performed so that a small area whose luminance is equal to or less than a threshold value is determined as a dark cell area.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in S209 that the reading target is the type (frame QR) of the information code 100, the process proceeds to Yes in S209, and binarization processing based on the specific information recorded in the header data is performed. (S210). In this process, the light / dark array in each codeword area whose position is specified in S208 is specified. Specifically, in each codeword area, each small area is classified as either a light cell area or a dark cell area.

  For example, if the specific information as shown in FIG. 15 is recorded in the header storage area 112 of the information code 100 as shown in FIG. 18, the header data is read in S206, and the position of the characteristic area (specifically, In this, each position of each individual area E1, E2) and a cell evaluation method in the feature area (specifically, a position where the cell exists in each individual area E1, E2) are specified. In the binarization process of S210, the characteristic area (individual areas E1 and E2 in the example of FIG. 18) specified by the header data in the codeword area 114 is evaluated in the evaluation method (specifically, Specifically, binarization processing is performed according to the cell location in each of the individual regions E1 and E2, and binarization processing is performed for the other regions by a predetermined general method.

  First, binarization of the feature region illustrated in FIG. 18 will be described. When the specific information is read from the header storage area 112, the position of the individual area E1 in the entire code area Ca1 (see FIG. 18) is determined by the position information 1 (individual area position information) associated with the individual area E1. Based on the evaluation information 1 (individual region evaluation information) associated with the individual region E1, the cell location in each small region Ca2 constituting the individual region E1 (the small region constituting the individual region E1) can be specified. Can be identified into a plurality of subdivided areas A1 to A25). Specifically, when the individual area E1 specified by the position information 1 uses the light and dark structure as shown in FIG. 12A (that is, the dark cell has the structure as shown in FIG. 10C, When the light cell has a structure as shown in FIG. 10E), when determining the brightness of each small area Ca2, the luminance at the position of the area A11 in each small area Ca2 as shown in FIG. (Specifically, the brightness of the center position P11 in the vertical and horizontal directions of the area A11) is detected. Then, a small area in which the luminance at the center position P11 of the area A11 exceeds the threshold value is determined as a light cell area, and a dark area is determined for a small area in which the luminance at the center position P11 of the area A11 is equal to or less than the threshold value. Is determined. In this way, the brightness of each small area in the individual area E1 can be determined, and the arrangement of bright cells and dark cells is determined in each code word constituting the individual area E1.

  Similarly, the position of the individual area E2 (see FIG. 18) in the entire code area Ca1 can be specified by the position information 2 (individual area position information) associated with the individual area E2, and the individual area E2 Based on the evaluation information 2 (individual area evaluation information) associated with the cell, the cell location in each small area Ca2 constituting the individual area E2 (the small area of the individual area E2 is divided into a plurality of subdivided areas A1 to A25). The subdivision area at the position where the cell exists) can be specified. Specifically, when the individual area E2 specified by the position information 2 uses the light and dark structure as shown in FIG. 12B (that is, the dark cell has the structure as shown in FIG. 10D), When the bright cell has a structure as shown in FIG. 10E), when determining the brightness of each small area, the luminance at the position of the area A3 (FIG. 13) in each small area (specifically, the area The brightness of the center position in the vertical and horizontal directions of A3) is detected. Then, a small area where the luminance at the center position of the area A3 exceeds the threshold is determined as a light cell area, and a small area whose luminance at the center position of the area A3 is equal to or less than the threshold is determined as a dark cell area. . In this way, the brightness of each small area in the individual area E2 can be determined, and the arrangement of bright cells and dark cells is determined in each codeword constituting the individual area E2.

  Further, for the areas other than the characteristic areas (individual areas E1, E2) in the codeword area 114, the luminance at the center position of each small area (that is, the center position in the vertical and horizontal directions of the area A13 shown in FIG. 13). Brightness) is determined to be a light cell area for a small area where the brightness at the center position exceeds the threshold value, and a dark cell area for a small area whose brightness at the center position is less than or equal to the threshold value. The binarization process may be performed as described above. As a result, even in areas other than the characteristic areas (individual areas E1 and E2), the arrangement of light cells and dark cells in each code word is determined.

  In this configuration, the control circuit 40 corresponds to an example of a reading unit. The control circuit 40 corresponds to an example of the specific information reading unit, and analyzes the header storage area 112 (basic information recording area) in the captured image of the information code 100 captured by the light receiving sensor 23 (imaging unit). Functions to read specific information. The control circuit 40 corresponds to an example of a feature region decoding unit, and is based on the small area Ca2 in the feature region (for example, the individual regions E1 and E2 in FIG. 18) based on the specific information read by the specific information reading unit. The cell evaluation method is specified, and the data recorded in the feature area is decrypted.

(Example of effects of this configuration)
In this configuration, in the generation of the information code 100, at least a part or all of the cell arrangement area other than the specific pattern area is set to a predetermined state in the small area Ca2 in the code area Ca1. Let it be a feature area (individual areas E1, E2). In the basic information recording area (header storage area 112) forming a part of the code area Ca1, specific information for specifying the cell evaluation method in the small area Ca2 in the characteristic area (individual areas E1, E2) Record.
According to this method, it is possible to configure a characteristic area in which the cell is in a predetermined state in the code area Ca1. Further, since information (specific information) for specifying a cell evaluation method in the feature areas (individual areas E1, E2) is recorded in the basic information recording area (header storage area 112), the cells in the feature area are recorded. The evaluation can be performed based on a predetermined reference (cell evaluation method) in association with the information code, and the cells in the feature region can be read more appropriately.

  Specifically, in the characteristic area (individual areas E1, E2), the arrangement and shape of the cells in the small area are set to the predetermined cell arrangement and the predetermined cell shape, and the basic information recording area (header storage area 112) includes As the specific information, cell position information for specifying the position of the cell in the small area of the feature area is recorded. When reading the information code 100 configured in this way by the reading device 10, if the contents of the basic information recording area (header storage area 112) are grasped, the cell of each small area in the characteristic area (individual area E1, E2) is read. It is possible to specify the existence position more accurately. In other words, instead of performing a general reading method uniformly, it is possible to specify the cell location in each small area using specific information prepared in advance in order to grasp the characteristic area of this information code. Therefore, each cell can be evaluated in a form in which the position is specified more accurately.

  Further, a subdivision method for dividing the small area Ca into a plurality of subdivided areas is determined in advance. When cell position information is generated / recorded according to a feature area, the subarea of the feature area is divided by the subdivision method. Of the plurality of subdivided areas, the area designation information for designating at least the area where the cell exists is generated, and this area designation information is used as cell position information in the basic information recording area (header storage area 112). Store. In this way, since the cell location can be indicated by a method of designating an area where the cell exists among a plurality of subdivided areas divided by a predetermined subdivision method, It becomes easy to indicate the cell location more specifically without increasing the amount of information for indicating the location, and without complicating the information so much.

  Further, in the basic information recording area (header storage area 112), characteristic area position information for specifying the position of the characteristic area (individual areas E1, E2) is also recorded. When the information code 100 generated by this method is read, it is possible to more accurately identify the position of the feature area by grasping the contents of the basic information recording area (header storage area 112). And at least for the feature region accurately identified in this way, a general method is not applied uniformly, but a predetermined criterion (cell evaluation method) for evaluating the feature region. It becomes possible to evaluate based on this, and it becomes easy to read the cell of a characteristic area more appropriately.

  Further, in this configuration, the characteristic region is configured by a plurality of types of individual regions E1 and E2, and the cell state is determined for each individual region. In the basic information recording area (header storage area 112), individual area position information for specifying the positions of the individual areas E1 and E2 and the cells in the small areas of the individual areas E1 and E2 are stored. Individual area evaluation information for specifying each evaluation method is recorded. When reading the information code 100 generated by this method, the position of the plurality of characteristic areas (individual areas E1, E2) can be more accurately identified by grasping the contents of the basic information recording area (header storage area 112). It becomes possible to do. In each of the individual regions E1 and E2 whose positions are accurately identified in this way, evaluation based on each criterion (each cell evaluation method) predetermined for each individual region becomes possible, and a plurality of individual regions In each of the cases, it becomes easier to read the cell more appropriately.

  In this configuration, the basic information recording area (header storage area 112) is provided in a predetermined fixed area in the code area Ca1. When the information code 100 generated by this method is read, if a predetermined fixed area is analyzed, information (specific information) for specifying a cell evaluation method in the characteristic area can be grasped.

  Further, in this configuration, an error correction code record that records an error correction code by a plurality of types of cells within a specific pattern area, a data recording area, a basic information recording area (header storage area 112), in the code area Ca1. And an area. Then, in the code area Ca1, the data recording is performed by a method different from the method for recording data in the data recording area at a position other than the specific pattern area, the data recording area, the basic information recording area, and the error correction code recording area. Alternatively, the empty area 110 in which at least one of design displays is possible is provided with a predetermined size larger than the size of a single cell. If the information code 100 is generated by this method, there is a method for recording data in the data recording area at a position other than the specific pattern area, the data recording area, the basic information recording area, and the error correction code recording area within the code area. It is possible to secure a free space in which data recording and / or design display can be performed by different methods. Thus, if an area that is not easily affected by the data recording area and the error correction code recording area is secured, the degree of freedom in configuring the information code is increased, and the convenience in using the information code is further enhanced. It becomes easy.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, a second embodiment will be described.
The second embodiment is different from the first embodiment only in the specific contents of the small area in the feature area and the evaluation method in the small area, and is otherwise the same as the first embodiment. In this configuration, the main difference is that the individual regions E1 and E2 constituting the feature region have different cell densities or luminances in the small regions. The basic contents such as (information code generating device) (information code reading measure) (information code) (information code generating process) described above are the same as those in the first embodiment, and detailed description thereof will be made. Will be omitted, and FIGS. 1 to 19 will be referred to as appropriate.

  Even in this configuration, the information code 100 can be generated according to the flow shown in FIG. Further, when the information code 100 is generated, further features can be added. The basic configuration for generating the information code 100 is the same as that shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, for example.

  Also in this example, in the basic generation process described with reference to FIG. 7 (the information code generation process described in the first embodiment), the model number of the information code 100 (frame QR) is determined in S10. The basic structure (basic structure previously associated with the model number) in the code area Ca1 is determined. Specifically, the number of rows and columns of the code area Ca1 is determined, the position of the specific pattern area where the position detection pattern 104 and the timing pattern 106 are arranged, the position of the predetermined area 105 where the format information is arranged, header information The position of the header storage area 112 where the data is arranged, the position of the code word area 114, the address of each code word, and the like are also determined.

  Hereinafter, a case will be described in which the model number having the basic structure as shown in FIG. 9 is selected in the process of S10 of FIG. Note that the basic structure of FIG. 9 is the same as that of the first embodiment, and thus a detailed description of the basic structure is omitted.

  Here, the figure of each cell 102 constituting the code word region 114 will be described. FIG. 20A shows the outer edge of the maximum region (small region Ca2) in which one cell can be arranged by a two-dot chain line. In this configuration, a plurality of types of dark cells 102b are prepared as dark cells 102b that can be arranged in the small region Ca2. For example, as shown in FIG. 20B, the entire region in the small region Ca2 has a large density. As shown in FIG. 20C, the dark cell B1 (type 1) set to (first density), and the dark color set to a medium density (second density lower than the first density) in the entire small area Ca2. As shown in the cell B2 (type 2) and FIG. 20D, a dark cell B3 (type 3) in which the entire area in the small area Ca2 has a low density (third density smaller than the second density) is prepared. ing. Further, a light cell W1 is prepared as a light cell 102w that can be arranged in the small region Ca2, in which the entire region is light (for example, white) with a predetermined density.

  In the process of FIG. 7 described above, when a code word is arranged in S11, unless otherwise specified, a dark cell as shown in FIG. A code word is configured so that a dark cell (for example, a cell filled with black) or a light cell as shown in FIG. 20E (a cell for which a small area is filled with a light color (for example, white)) is arranged. become.

  Also in this example, in some areas as shown in FIG. 11A, areas 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 11, 14, and 16 are represented by dark cells 102b, and the other areas are light cells 102w. 20B, for the dark cell 102b, as shown in FIG. 20B, the entire small region Ca2 is filled with a dark color (for example, black) of the first density, and the light cell 102w is shown in FIG. When the entire small area Ca2 as shown in E) is a cell filled with a bright color (for example, white), the cell arrangement and structure in this partial area are as shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, if there is a designation to change any type of cell to a feature structure in a part or all of the codeword area 114 (FIG. 9), the designated type of cell is changed in the designated area. Arrange with the specified feature structure. In other words, when such a designation is made, at least a part or all of the cell arrangement area other than the specific pattern area 104 within the code area Ca1 conceptually shown in FIG. 9 is included in the feature area (small area Ca2). The area in which the cell state is set to a predetermined state). Also in this case, the designation may be made in S1 or may be made in S11.

  For example, a partial area as shown in FIG. 11A is designated, and in this partial area, areas 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 11, 14, and 16 are represented by dark cells 102b, and others When the area is represented by the light cell 102w, there is a designation that the dark cell 102b is in the characteristic state (second density dark color) as shown in FIG. 20C, and the light cell 102w is shown in FIG. In the case where there is an instruction to set a certain state, this partial area is expressed as shown in FIG.

  As another example, a partial area as shown in FIG. 11A is designated, and in this partial area, the areas 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 11, 14, and 16 are represented by dark cells 102b. When the other area is represented by the light cell 102w, the dark cell 102b is designated to be in the characteristic state (third density dark color) as shown in FIG. 20D, and the light cell 102w is shown in FIG. In the case where there is a designation such as in this state, this partial area is expressed as shown in FIG.

  Such cell state designation can be performed separately for each of a plurality of areas set in the code word area 114. For example, when the information code 100 (frame QR) having the model number as shown in FIG. 9 is generated, the area E1 (see FIG. 18) is designated in the processing of S11 of FIG. In the state shown in FIG. 20C, when there is a designation (for example, designation by an input made by the user) to change the light cell in this area E1 to the state shown in FIG. 20E, the light cell in this area E1. The structures of the dark cells are the same as those of the light cells and dark cells shown in FIG. Further, in the process of S11 in FIG. 7, the area E2 (see FIG. 18) is designated, the dark cell in this area E2 is set in the state of FIG. 20D, and the light cell in this area E2 is set in FIG. When the state is designated, the structure of each of the light cell and the dark cell in the region E2 is the same as that of each of the light cell and the dark cell shown in FIG. Note that for areas that are not particularly specified (areas other than the individual areas E1 and E2), the default light / dark structure (for example, dark cells are in the state shown in FIG. 20B) and light cells are shown in FIG. )).

  Even when such a feature area is provided, specific information for specifying a cell evaluation method in a small area in the feature area is generated, and this specific information is finally stored in the header storage area 112 (basic information recording Area). For example, as shown in FIG. 18, when the characteristic area is configured by a plurality of types of individual areas E1 and E2 and the cell state is determined for each individual area, each position of each individual area is specified. Individual area position information and individual area evaluation information for specifying a cell evaluation method in a small area of each individual area are respectively generated, and the header storage area 112 (basic information recording area) is used as specific information. To record. Specifically, as in FIG. 15, as information related to the individual area E1, position information 1 (individual area position information) for specifying the position of the individual area E1 in the code area Ca1 and the individual area E1 are evaluated. Evaluation information 1 (individual area evaluation information) is associated. Further, as information related to the individual area E2, position information 2 (individual area position information) for specifying the position of the individual area E2 in the code area Ca1 and evaluation information 2 (individual area evaluation information) for evaluating the individual area E2 ) Are associated with each other.

  Position information 1 and 2 (individual region position information) for specifying the positions of the individual regions E1 and E2 in the code region Ca1 are the same as those in the first embodiment. For example, each of the individual regions E1 and E2 has four corners. Coordinates (combination of row position and column position of each small area constituting the four corners of the individual area) can be mentioned.

  Next, evaluation information (individual region evaluation information) determined for each individual region will be described. In this configuration, in each of the individual areas E1 and E2 constituting the characteristic area of the information code as shown in FIG. 18, the dark cell density in the small area Ca2 is a characteristic density different from the default density. For example, for the individual area E1, the dark color cell is a dark color (black) of the second density as shown in FIG. 20C, and the cell of the small area of the individual area E1 is associated with the individual area E1. Cell evaluation of threshold information used for identification (threshold Th1 for comparing luminance detected from each small area in order to identify whether each small area of the individual area E1 belongs to a light cell or a dark cell) Generated as information (specific information, individual area evaluation information). That is, the threshold value Th1 is a threshold value for discriminating between the dark color of the second density represented by the dark color cell B2 and the bright color represented by the light color cell W1. Similarly, for the individual area E2, the dark color cells have a dark color of the third density as shown in FIG. 20D, and are associated with the individual area E2 to identify the cells in the small area of the individual area E2. Threshold information to be used (threshold value Th2 for comparing the brightness detected from each small region in order to identify whether each small region of the individual region E2 belongs to a light cell or a dark cell) is referred to as cell evaluation information ( Specific information, individual area evaluation information). The threshold value Th2 is a threshold value for discriminating between the dark color of the third density represented by the dark color cell B3 and the bright color represented by the light color cell W1. The specific information for each individual area thus generated (individual area position information and individual area evaluation information determined for each individual area: see FIG. 15) is stored in the header as a part of the header data as shown in FIG. It is stored in the area 112 (basic information recording area). Also in this example, when the information code generating device 2 generates the information code 100 (frame QR) having the feature area, the basic information recording area (header storage area 112) is set in a predetermined fixed area in the code area. The information code 100 is generated in the form provided.

  When the information code 100 generated in this way is read, it can be read in the same flow as in FIG. 19 described in the first embodiment, and only the processing of S210 is different from that in the first embodiment. In this example, when the specific information is read from the header storage area 112 in S206, the position information 1 (individual area position information) associated with the individual area E1 indicates the individual area E1 in the entire code area Ca1. The threshold (see FIG. 18) can be specified, and is applied to the determination in each small area Ca2 constituting the individual area E1 by the evaluation information 1 (individual area evaluation information) associated with the individual area E1. Th1 (threshold information for identifying light cells and dark cells) can be specified. Specifically, when the individual area E1 specified by the position information 1 uses the light and dark structure as shown in FIG. 21A (that is, the dark cell has the structure as shown in FIG. 20C), When the light cell has a structure as shown in FIG. 20E), when determining the brightness of each small area Ca2, for example, the luminance at the center position of each small area Ca2 (specifically, in FIG. 13). The brightness of the center position in the vertical and horizontal directions of the area A13 shown) is detected. Then, a small area in which the luminance at the center position of the area A13 exceeds the threshold Th1 is determined as a light cell area, and a small area in which the luminance at the center position of the area A13 is equal to or less than the threshold Th1 is determined as a dark cell area. It is determined as an area. In this way, the brightness of each small area in the individual area E1 can be determined, and the arrangement of bright cells and dark cells is determined in each code word constituting the individual area E1. In this specification, when evaluating the luminance of each pixel in the captured image, for example, the predetermined maximum level of luminance is Tmax (for example, 255), the predetermined minimum level of luminance is Tmin (for example, 0), and the maximum The brightness of each level between the level and the minimum level can be shown stepwise by each numerical value of Tmax to Tmin.

  Similarly, the position of the individual area E2 (see FIG. 18) in the entire code area Ca1 can be specified by the position information 2 (individual area position information) associated with the individual area E2, and the individual area E2 Threshold value Th2 (threshold information for identifying light cells and dark cells) applied to discrimination in each small region Ca2 constituting the individual region E2 by the evaluation information 2 (individual region evaluation information) associated with ) Can be specified. Specifically, when the individual area E2 specified by the position information 2 uses a light and dark structure as shown in FIG. 21B (that is, the dark cell has a structure as shown in FIG. 20D), When the light cell has a structure as shown in FIG. 20E), when determining the brightness of each small area Ca2, for example, the center position of each small area Ca2 (specifically, the area shown in FIG. 13) The brightness of the center position in the vertical and horizontal directions of A13) is detected. Then, a small area where the luminance at the center position of the area A13 exceeds the threshold Th2 is determined as a light cell area, and a small area whose luminance at the center position of the area A13 is equal to or less than the threshold Th2 is determined as a dark cell area. It is determined as an area. In this way, the brightness of each small area in the individual area E2 can be determined, and the arrangement of bright cells and dark cells is determined in each codeword constituting the individual area E2.

  Further, for the areas other than the characteristic areas (individual areas E1 and E2) in the codeword area 114, the luminance at the center position of each small area (that is, the center position in the vertical and horizontal directions of the area A13 shown in FIG. 13). Is compared with a predetermined threshold Th3, and a small region in which the luminance at the center position exceeds the threshold Th3 is determined as a light cell region, and a small region with the luminance at the center position equal to or less than the threshold Th3 is determined as a dark cell. A binarization process may be performed so as to determine a region. As a result, even in areas other than the characteristic areas (individual areas E1 and E2), the arrangement of light cells and dark cells in each code word is determined. The relationship between the threshold values Th1, Th2, Th3 may be, for example, Th1> Th2> Th3, or may be Th1 <Th2 <Th3.

  In this configuration, cell display evaluation information for specifying a cell density evaluation method in a small area of the characteristic area (individual areas E1, E2) is recorded as specific information in the header storage area 112 (basic information recording area). ing. When reading the feature area of the information code generated by this method, the general reading method is not used uniformly, but an evaluation method prepared in advance is used to evaluate the density of the cells constituting this feature area. Thus, since the state of each cell can be evaluated, appropriate evaluation based on a specific evaluation method associated with this information code is possible.

  Specifically, light cells and dark cells are arranged as cells in the code region, and feature regions (individual regions E1, E1) are displayed as cell display evaluation information in the header storage region 112 (basic information recording region). Threshold information for identifying bright cells and dark cells is recorded in the small area E2). Specifically, the first threshold value information for identifying the light color cell and the dark color cell in the small area of the individual area E1 is recorded in a form associated with the individual area E1, and the form is associated with the individual area E2. Second threshold value information for identifying light cells and dark cells in the small region of the individual region E2 is recorded. When reading the characteristic area (individual areas E1, E2) of the information code generated by this method, instead of using a general threshold value uniformly, to identify the cells of the characteristic areas (individual areas E1, E2) The light and darkness of each cell can be stabilized using a threshold value prepared in advance. Therefore, it is possible to make an appropriate determination based on a specific threshold value associated with this information code.

  In the representative example of the second embodiment, the information code 100 configured by printing or the like is assumed, and the density of the dark color area is varied for each individual area, and the threshold value used for the binarization process for each individual area. However, the present invention is not limited to this example. For example, when the information code 100 represented by a display device or the like is assumed, the luminance of the dark area may be varied for each individual area. This case is also the same as the representative example except that the brightness of the dark color region is different for each individual region, and the threshold value used for the binarization process is determined in the same manner as the representative example in association with each of the individual regions E1 and E2. Each threshold value may be stored in the header storage area 112 as individual area evaluation information (specific information). In this case, the threshold value determined in association with each of the individual areas E1 and E2 corresponds to cell display evaluation information for specifying a cell luminance evaluation method.

[Third Embodiment]
Next, a third embodiment will be described.
The third embodiment differs from the first embodiment only in the specific contents of the small regions in the feature region and the evaluation method in the small regions, and is otherwise the same as the first embodiment. In this configuration, the main difference is that the color (hue) of the cell in the small area is different between the individual area E1 and the individual area E2 constituting the characteristic area. The basic contents such as (information code generating device) (information code reading measure) (information code) (information code generating process) described above are the same as those in the first embodiment, and detailed description thereof will be made. Will be omitted, and FIGS. 1 to 19 will be referred to as appropriate.

  Even in this configuration, the information code 100 can be generated according to the flow shown in FIG. Further, when the information code 100 is generated, further features can be added. The basic configuration for generating the information code 100 is the same as that shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, for example.

  Also in this example, in the basic generation process described with reference to FIG. 7 (the information code generation process described in the first embodiment), the model number of the information code 100 (frame QR) is determined in S10. The basic structure (basic structure previously associated with the model number) in the code area Ca1 is determined. Specifically, the number of rows and columns of the code area Ca1 is determined, the position of the specific pattern area where the position detection pattern 104 and the timing pattern 106 are arranged, the position of the predetermined area 105 where the format information is arranged, header information The position of the header storage area 112 where the data is arranged, the position of the code word area 114, the address of each code word, and the like are also determined.

  Hereinafter, a case will be described in which the model number having the basic structure as shown in FIG. 9 is selected in the process of S10 of FIG. Note that the basic structure of FIG. 9 is the same as that of the first embodiment, and thus a detailed description of the basic structure is omitted.

  Here, the figure of each cell 102 constituting the code word region 114 will be described. FIG. 22A shows the outer edge of the maximum region (small region Ca2) in which one cell can be arranged by a two-dot chain line. In this configuration, as the dark cell 102b that can be arranged in the small region Ca2, for example, as shown in FIG. 22B, a dark cell B1 in which all the regions in the small region Ca2 are black is prepared. Further, as the light cell 102w that can be arranged in the small region Ca2, as shown in FIG. 22E, the light cell W1 (type 1) in which the entire region is white, as shown in FIG. 22C, the small region A light cell W2 (type 2) in which the entire area in Ca2 is blue, and a light cell W3 (type 3) in which the entire area in the small area Ca2 is red as shown in FIG. 22D are prepared. ing.

  In the processing of FIG. 7 described above, when codewords are arranged in S11, unless otherwise specified, dark cells (cells filled in black) as shown in FIG. The code word is configured to arrange bright cells (cells in which the entire small area is filled with a bright color (for example, white)) as shown in FIG.

  Also in this example, in some areas as shown in FIG. 11A, areas 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 11, 14, and 16 are represented by dark cells 102b, and the other areas are light cells 102w. In the case of the dark cell 102b, as shown in FIG. 22B, the entire small region Ca2 is filled with a dark color (for example, black) of the first density as shown in FIG. 22B, and the light cell 102w is shown in FIG. When the entire small area Ca2 as shown in E) is a cell filled with a bright color (for example, white), the cell arrangement and structure in this partial area are as shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, if there is a designation to change any type of cell to a feature structure in a part or all of the codeword area 114 (FIG. 9), the designated type of cell is changed in the designated area. Arrange with the specified feature structure. In other words, when such a designation is made, at least a part or all of the cell arrangement area other than the specific pattern area 104 within the code area Ca1 conceptually shown in FIG. 9 is included in the feature area (small area Ca2). The area in which the cell state is set to a predetermined state). Also in this case, the designation may be made in S1 or may be made in S11.

  For example, a partial area as shown in FIG. 11A is designated, and in this partial area, areas 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 11, 14, and 16 are represented by dark cells 102b, and others Is represented by a light cell 102w, the light cell 102w is designated to have a characteristic state (blue) as shown in FIG. 22C, and the dark cell 102b is made into a state as shown in FIG. 22B. When designated, this partial area is expressed by a light and dark array of blue cells W2 and black cells B1 as shown in FIG.

  As another example, a partial area as shown in FIG. 11A is designated, and in this partial area, the areas 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 11, 14, and 16 are represented by dark cells 102b. When the other area is represented by the light cell 102w, there is a designation that the light cell 102w is in the characteristic state (red) as shown in FIG. 22D, and the dark cell 102b is in the state as shown in FIG. In the case where the designation is made, this partial area is expressed by a light-dark arrangement of the red cell W3 and the black cell B1 as shown in FIG.

  Such cell state designation can be performed separately for each of a plurality of areas set in the code word area 114. For example, when the information code 100 (frame QR) having the model number as shown in FIG. 9 is generated, the area E1 (see FIG. 18) is designated in the processing of S11 of FIG. When the state shown in FIG. 22B is set and the light cell in the area E1 is designated to be in the state shown in FIG. 22C (for example, designated by input made by the user), the light cell in the area E1 The structures of the dark cells are the same as those of the light cells and dark cells shown in FIG. Further, in the process of S11 of FIG. 7, the area E2 (see FIG. 18) is designated, the dark cell in this area E2 is set to the state shown in FIG. 22B, and the light cell in this area E2 is set as shown in FIG. When designated to be in the state, the structure of the light cell and the dark cell in the area E2 is the same as the structure of the light cell and the dark cell shown in FIG. For areas not specified (areas other than the individual areas E1 and E2), the default light / dark structure (for example, dark cells are in the state shown in FIG. 22B) and light cells are shown in FIG. )).

  Even when such a feature area is provided, specific information for specifying a cell evaluation method in a small area in the feature area is generated, and this specific information is finally stored in the header storage area 112 (basic information recording Area). For example, as shown in FIG. 18, when the characteristic area is configured by a plurality of types of individual areas E1 and E2 and the cell state is determined for each individual area, each position of each individual area is specified. Individual area position information and individual area evaluation information for specifying a cell evaluation method in a small area of each individual area are respectively generated, and the header storage area 112 (basic information recording area) is used as specific information. To record. Specifically, as in FIG. 15, as information related to the individual area E1, position information 1 (individual area position information) for specifying the position of the individual area E1 in the code area Ca1 and the individual area E1 are evaluated. Evaluation information 1 (individual area evaluation information) is associated. Further, as information related to the individual area E2, position information 2 (individual area position information) for specifying the position of the individual area E2 in the code area Ca1 and evaluation information 2 (individual area evaluation information) for evaluating the individual area E2 ) Are associated with each other.

  Position information 1 and 2 (individual region position information) for specifying the positions of the individual regions E1 and E2 in the code region Ca1 are the same as those in the first embodiment. For example, each of the individual regions E1 and E2 has four corners. Coordinates (combination of row position and column position of each small area constituting the four corners of the individual area) can be mentioned.

  Next, evaluation information (individual region evaluation information) determined for each individual region will be described. In this configuration, in each of the individual areas E1 and E2 constituting the characteristic area of the information code as shown in FIG. 18, the color (hue) of the bright cell in the small area Ca2 is different from the default color (white). The color (hue). For example, for the individual area E1, the light cell is a blue cell B2 as shown in FIG. 22C, and the “weighted designation information” (evaluation information 1) is associated with the individual area E1 as shown in FIG. Is generated as cell evaluation information (specific information, individual area evaluation information). Here, the “weighting designation information” (evaluation information 1) corresponds to cell evaluation information for specifying a method for evaluating the hue of a cell in a small area of the feature area E1, and specifically, the feature area E1. This information is used to specify the weighting α of the R element, the weighting β of the G element, and the weighting γ of the B element in analyzing the captured image of the cell arranged in the small region.

  In the reading apparatus 10 used in the present system, the light receiving sensor 23 is configured as a color sensor, and R elements (R component luminance values) and G elements (G components) of light received by each element arranged in multiple rows and multiple columns. Component luminance value) and B element (B component luminance value) can be detected. Then, based on the R element (the luminance value of the R component), the G element (the luminance value of the G component), and the B element (the luminance value of the B component) detected by each element, the luminance value of each element (that is, the captured image) Is calculated by the equation (L = αR + βG + γB) in FIG. In this equation, L is a luminance value of the pixel, α is a weighting of the R component, R is a luminance value of the R component in the pixel, β is a weighting of the G component, G is a luminance value of the G component in the pixel, γ is a weighting of the B component, and B is a luminance value of the B component in the pixel. Note that α + β + γ = 1. The default weights are, for example, α = 0,299, β = 0.487, and γ = 0.144.

  As shown in FIG. 15, “weighting designation information” (evaluation information 1) associated with the individual area E1 is information of α = 0, β = 0, γ = 1, for example, and the B element (B component) This information specifies that the weighting is maximized. For example, as shown in FIG. 24B, each component in one pixel (specifically, the pixel at the center position of the blue cell W2 shown in FIG. 22C) in the captured image when the information code 100 is captured. When the detection result of the brightness of R = 0, G = 0, and B = 255, the calculation result of the brightness of the pixel when the above-described default weighting is used is 29.07. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 24C, the calculation result of the luminance of the pixel when the weighting specified by the above-described “weighting specification information” (evaluation information 1) is used is 255. Thus, in the case of using a light color cell in which the degree of blue or blue is large, if the calculation is performed using the weight specified by the “weighting specification information” (evaluation information 1), the luminance for evaluating blue more As a result, a difference from the luminance value detected by the dark cell is likely to be large (that is, light and dark are easily distinguished more accurately). In this configuration, the luminance of the R component is 0 when the luminance of the R component is a predetermined minimum level, and the luminance of the R component is 255 when the luminance of the R component is a predetermined maximum level. Similarly, the luminance of the G component is set to 0 when the luminance of the G component is a predetermined minimum level, and the luminance of the G component is set to 255 when the luminance is the predetermined maximum level. Further, when the luminance of the B component is a predetermined minimum level, the luminance of the B component is set to 0, and when the luminance of the B component is a predetermined maximum level, the luminance of the B component is set to 255.

  Further, for the individual area E2, the bright cell is a red cell E3 as shown in FIG. 22D, and “weighting designation information” (evaluation information 2) is associated with the individual area E2 as shown in FIG. ) As cell evaluation information (specific information, individual area evaluation information). This “weighting designation information” (evaluation information 2) is used for analyzing the picked-up image of the cell arranged in the small area of the feature area E2, R element weighting α, G element weighting β, and B element weighting. This is information for specifying γ. The “weighting designation information” (evaluation information 2) associated with the individual area E2 is, for example, α = 1, β = 0, and γ = 0, and the weighting of the R element (R component) is maximized. Information to be specified. For example, as shown in FIG. 24D, the detection result of the luminance of one pixel (for example, the pixel at the center position of the red cell E3) in the captured image when the information code 100 is captured is R = 255, G = 0. , B = 0, the calculation result of the luminance of the pixel is 255 when the weighting specified in the above-described “weighting specification information” (evaluation information 2) is used. Thus, in the case of using a bright cell in which the degree of red or red is large, if the calculation is performed using the weight specified by the “weighting specification information” (evaluation information 2), the luminance for evaluating red more As a result, a difference from the luminance value detected by the dark cell is likely to be large (that is, light and dark are easily distinguished more accurately).

  The specific information for each individual area thus generated (individual area position information and individual area evaluation information determined for each individual area: see FIG. 15) is stored in the header as a part of the header data as shown in FIG. It is stored in the area 112 (basic information recording area). Also in this example, when the information code generating device 2 generates the information code 100 (frame QR) having the feature area, the basic information recording area (header storage area 112) is set in a predetermined fixed area in the code area. The information code 100 is generated in the form provided.

  When the information code 100 generated in this way is read, it can be read in the same flow as in FIG. 19 described in the first embodiment, and only the processing of S210 is different from that in the first embodiment. In this example, when the specific information is read from the header storage area 112 in S206, the position information 1 (individual area position information) associated with the individual area E1 indicates the individual area E1 in the entire code area Ca1. A position (see FIG. 18) can be specified, and weighting applied to discrimination in each small area Ca2 constituting the individual area E1 by the evaluation information 1 (individual area evaluation information) associated with the individual area E1 α, β, and γ can be specified. Specifically, when the individual area E1 specified by the position information 1 uses the light and dark structure as shown in FIG. 23A (that is, the dark cell has the structure as shown in FIG. 22B, When the light cell has a structure as shown in FIG. 22C), the weights α = 0, β = 0, and γ = 1 are used when calculating the luminance of each small area Ca2. When determining the brightness of each small area Ca2, for example, the luminance L of the pixel at the center position of each small area Ca2 (specifically, the vertical and horizontal center positions of the area A13 shown in FIG. 13), This weighting (α = 0, β = 0, γ = 1) is used for calculation according to the equation of FIG. Then, for a small area where the luminance of the pixel at the center position of the area A13 (FIG. 13) (specifically, the luminance value of the B component at the pixel at the center position of the small area) exceeds a predetermined threshold T, The area is determined to be a color cell area, and a small area in which the luminance of the pixel at the center position of the area A13 is equal to or less than the threshold T is determined to be a dark cell area. In this way, the brightness of each small area in the individual area E1 can be determined, and the arrangement of bright cells and dark cells is determined in each code word constituting the individual area E1.

  Similarly, the position of the individual area E2 (see FIG. 18) in the entire code area Ca1 can be specified by the position information 2 (individual area position information) associated with the individual area E2, and the individual area E2 With the evaluation information 2 (individual region evaluation information) associated with, the weights α, β, and γ applied to the discrimination in each small region Ca2 that constitutes the individual region E2 can be specified. Specifically, when the individual area E2 specified by the position information 2 uses the light and dark structure as shown in FIG. 23B (that is, the dark cell has the structure as shown in FIG. 22B, When the light cell has a structure as shown in FIG. 22D), the weights α = 1, β = 0, and γ = 0 are used when calculating the luminance of each small area Ca2. When determining the brightness of each small area Ca2, for example, the luminance L of the pixel at the center position of each small area Ca2 (specifically, the vertical and horizontal center positions of the area A13 shown in FIG. 13), This weighting (α = 1, β = 0, γ = 0) is used for calculation according to the equation of FIG. Then, for the small region where the luminance of the pixel at the center position of the region A13 (FIG. 13) (specifically, the luminance value of the R component at the pixel at the central position of the small region) exceeds the predetermined threshold T, The area is determined to be a color cell area, and a small area in which the luminance of the pixel at the center position of the area A13 is equal to or less than the threshold T is determined to be a dark cell area. In this way, the brightness of each small area in the individual area E2 can be determined, and the arrangement of bright cells and dark cells is determined in each codeword constituting the individual area E2.

  For areas other than the characteristic areas (individual areas E1, E2) in the codeword area 114 (FIG. 18), the default weighting (α = 0.299, β = 0.587, γ = 0.144 weighting). When determining the brightness of each small area Ca2 in this area, for example, the pixel at the center position of each small area Ca2 (specifically, the vertical and horizontal center positions of the area A13 shown in FIG. 13). Is calculated by the equation of FIG. 24A using this weighting (α = 0.299, β = 0.487, γ = 0.144). Then, a small area in which the luminance of the pixel at the center position of the area A13 (FIG. 13) exceeds the predetermined threshold T is determined as a bright cell area, and the luminance of the pixel at the center position of the area A13 is the threshold T. The following small areas are determined as dark cell areas. As a result, even in areas other than the characteristic areas (individual areas E1 and E2), the arrangement of light cells and dark cells in each code word is determined.

  As described above, in this configuration, cell display evaluation information for specifying a method for evaluating the hue of cells in the small areas of the characteristic areas (individual areas E1, E2) is included in the header storage area 112 (basic information recording area). It is recorded as specific information. When reading the feature area of the information code generated by this method, the general reading method is not used uniformly, but an evaluation method prepared in advance is used to evaluate the hue of the cells constituting this feature area. Thus, since the state of each cell can be evaluated, appropriate evaluation based on a specific evaluation method associated with this information code is possible.

  Specifically, as the cell display evaluation information, the weights of the R element, the G element, and the B element are specified in analyzing the captured image of the cell arranged in the small area of the characteristic area (individual areas E1, E2). The weight designation information to be recorded is recorded in the header storage area 112 (basic information recording area). For example, the first weighting designation information (α = 0, β = 0, β) that designates the weights of the R element, the G element, and the B element in analyzing the captured image of the cell arranged in the small area of the individual area E1. γ = 1) and second weighting designation information (α = 1, which designates the weighting of the R element, the G element, and the B element in analyzing the captured image of the cell arranged in the small area of the individual area E2. β = 0, γ = 0) is recorded in the header storage area 112 (basic information recording area). When reading the header storage area 112 (basic information recording area) of the information code generated by this method, the cells constituting this characteristic area (individual areas E1, E2) are not performed uniformly, but the general reading method is not uniformly performed. Since the state of each cell can be evaluated using weights (R element, G element, and B element weights) prepared in advance to analyze the captured image of It is possible to perform an appropriate evaluation based on the evaluation method (weighting setting method for each element of RGB).

[Fourth Embodiment]
Next, a fourth embodiment will be described.
In the fourth embodiment, the basic contents such as (information code generation device) (information code reading measure) (information code) (information code generation processing) described above in the description of the first embodiment are characterized by header data. The second embodiment is the same as the first embodiment except that no information is recorded. Therefore, detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted, and FIGS. 1 to 19 will be referred to as appropriate.

  Also in this configuration, the information code generation device 2 having the same hardware configuration as that of the first embodiment is configured such that cells serving as units for displaying information are arranged in each of a plurality of small regions within a predetermined code region. Thus, the information code 100 (FIG. 25) is generated. Further, the information code 100 can be read by the information code reader 10 having the same hardware configuration as that of the first embodiment.

  The basic flow of generation processing by the information code generation device 2 is the same as that in FIG. Further, when the information code 100 is generated, further features can be added. The basic configuration for generating the information code 100 is the same as that shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, for example. That is, also in this configuration, the information code generation device 2 has a specific pattern area (position detection pattern 104, separator 109) in which a specific pattern having a predetermined shape is arranged inside the code area Ca1 (FIGS. 8 and 9). , A timing pattern 106 area), a data recording area for recording data to be decoded by a plurality of types of cells (an area in which the data to be decoded is recorded in the codeword area 114), and an error correction data recording area ( An area in which the error correction code is recorded in the codeword area 114), a basic information recording area for recording basic information for reading the data to be decoded recorded in the data recording area, and an empty area 110 are provided. The information code 100 is generated in the form. The arrangement and recording contents of the specific pattern area, data recording area, error correction data recording area, empty area 110, codeword area 114, predetermined area 105 (format area), and header storage area 112 are specified in the header storage area 112. The information code 100 is the same as the information code 100 (FIG. 9) shown in the first embodiment except that no information is recorded. Hereinafter, an example in which the predetermined area 105 (format area) corresponds to the basic information recording area will be described as a representative example.

  In the generation device 2 according to the present configuration, as shown in FIG. 25, an area including at least a cell arrangement area other than the specific pattern area and a basic information recording area (predetermined area 105) within the code area Ca <b> 1. The information code 100 is generated in the form of a feature region such that the cell state in the small region Ca2 is one of candidate states selected from a plurality of types of candidate states prepared in advance. In this example, the areas other than the specific pattern area (position detection pattern 104, separator 109, timing pattern 106) are all characteristic areas, and combinations of light cells and dark cells in the characteristic areas are determined in advance. It is designed to be selected from a plurality of combination candidates.

  In the generation apparatus 2, as a plurality of combination candidates, for example, a combination (first candidate) having a light cell having the structure of FIG. 10E and a dark cell having the structure of FIG. A combination (second candidate) having the structure shown in FIG. 10E with dark cells as the structure shown in FIG. 10C, a light cell having the structure shown in FIG. 10E, and dark cells as shown in FIG. The combination (third candidate) to be the structure is determined. Then, when the generation device 2 generates the information code 100, the entire area (feature area) other than the specific pattern area and the empty area is set as any candidate light-dark array. FIG. 25 shows an example in which the light / dark arrangement of the second candidate is used. For example, in the predetermined area 105 (format area), a light cell in which the entire small area is expressed in white (FIG. 10E). And dark cells (a dark cell similar to FIG. 10C) in which a crescent-shaped black-filled region is represented in a part of the small region. In addition, for the header storage area 112 and the code word area 114, a light cell in which the entire small area is expressed in white (light cell similar to FIG. 10E) and a crescent moon in a part of the small area. Data is represented by dark cells (black cells similar to FIG. 10C) in which the black-filled areas of the shape are represented. As described above, in this configuration, in the feature region, the arrangement and shape of the light cell in the small region Ca2 are set as the predetermined light cell arrangement and the predetermined light cell shape (arrangement and shape determined by the combination described above). The arrangement and shape of dark cells in the small area Ca2 are set to a predetermined dark cell arrangement and a predetermined dark cell shape (arrangement and shape determined by the combination described above). If the cell location can be specified in the small area, it is possible to determine whether the cell is a light cell or a dark cell by comparing the luminance at that position with a threshold value.

  Next, a case where the information code 100 (FIG. 25) described above is read by the information code reader 10 will be described. In this example as well, the light receiving sensor 23 corresponds to an imaging unit that images the information code 100, and the control circuit 40 corresponds to a reading unit that reads the information code 100 captured by the imaging unit.

  Also in this example, the reading process can be performed in the same flow as in FIG. 19 described in the first embodiment. However, in this configuration, the specific information is not read from the header data, but the presence position of the cell in each small area in the characteristic area is specified by reading the format information in S203.

  Specifically, when the format information is read in S203, when the predetermined area 105 (format area) is read, the reading at the cell position corresponding to the combination candidate 1 and the reading at the cell position corresponding to the combination candidate 2 are performed. All the readings at the cell position corresponding to the combination candidate 3 are performed.

  In reading at the cell position corresponding to the combination candidate 1, in each small area, the brightness of the center position of each small area (vertical and horizontal center positions of the area 13 shown in FIG. 13) is detected, and the brightness If the threshold value T exceeds the threshold value T, a bright color cell and a dark color cell in the predetermined area 105 (format area) are determined by a method (first method) that determines that the color is a light color. Is determined, and the predetermined area 105 (format area) is decoded.

  In reading at the cell position corresponding to the combination candidate 2, in each small area, the luminance at the position to the left of each small area (the center position in the vertical and horizontal directions of the area 11 shown in FIG. 13) is detected. If the luminance exceeds the threshold T, it is determined as a light color, and if the luminance does not exceed the threshold, it is determined as a dark color (second method). In this method, the cell arrangement is determined and the predetermined area 105 (format area) is decoded.

  In the reading at the cell position corresponding to the combination candidate 3, in each small area, the luminance at the upper position of each small area (the vertical and horizontal center positions of the area 3 shown in FIG. 13) is detected. If the luminance exceeds the threshold value T, it is determined as a light color, and if the luminance does not exceed the threshold value, it is determined as a dark color cell in the predetermined area 105 (format area). In this method, the arrangement of dark cells is determined and the predetermined area 105 (format area) is decoded.

  If the reading method corresponding to any candidate succeeds in S203 (that is, if the reading is performed by the reading method corresponding to any candidate and the check digit is appropriate), in S210, The binarization process of S210 is performed using the successful method. For example, in the example of FIG. 25, the predetermined area 105 is a light and dark array of combination candidates 2. In such an example, reading is performed at the cell position corresponding to the combination candidate 2, and in each small area, the position to the left of each small area (vertical and horizontal center positions of the area 11 shown in FIG. 13). If the luminance is detected, and if the luminance exceeds the threshold value T, it is determined as a light color, and if the luminance does not exceed the threshold value, it is determined as a dark color (second method), The brightness of the cell position can be accurately determined, and the light / dark arrangement of the predetermined area 105 can be accurately determined. Therefore, the predetermined area 105 can be read successfully. In such a case, the other header storage area 112 and code word area 114 may be read at the cell position corresponding to the combination candidate 2. That is, when determining the brightness of each small area constituting these areas, the brightness at the position to the left of each small area (the vertical and horizontal center positions of the area 11 shown in FIG. 13) is detected, and the brightness If the threshold value T exceeds the threshold value T, a light color is determined, and if the luminance does not exceed the threshold value, a dark color method (second method) may be used. Note that the decoding method after the light cell and the dark cell are specified is the same as that in the first embodiment.

  In this configuration, the control circuit 40 corresponds to an example of an evaluation method specifying unit, and an image of a basic information recording area (for example, the predetermined area 105) in the captured image of the information code 100 captured by the imaging unit is prepared in advance. Analysis is performed using each of a plurality of types of evaluation methods, and functions to specify an evaluation method capable of reading the basic information recording area (for example, the predetermined area 105). The control circuit 40 corresponds to an example of a feature area decoding unit and functions to decode data recorded in the feature area based on a readable evaluation method specified by the evaluation method specifying unit.

  According to this configuration, the information code 100 can be generated by the information code generation device 2 in a form in which a characteristic region is provided such that the cell state in the small region is any candidate state. In addition, since the information code 100 to be generated has the above-described candidate state in the cells of the basic information recording area (for example, the predetermined area 105 configured as the format area), the candidate state is specified by analyzing the basic information recording area. become able to. On the other hand, the information code reader 10 is provided with an evaluation method specifying unit, and images of the basic information recording area (predetermined area 105) in the captured image of the information code captured by the imaging unit are prepared in a plurality of types. Each evaluation method is used for analysis, and an evaluation method capable of reading the basic information recording area is specified. With this configuration, when the information code generated by the information code generator is read by the information code reader, the evaluation method that can read the basic information recording area (that is, the cell state in the characteristic area) A suitable evaluation method) can be specified by the evaluation method specifying unit. Then, based on the appropriate evaluation method obtained in this way, the data recorded in the feature area can be decoded by the feature area decoding unit.

[Fifth Embodiment]
Next, a fifth embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.
The information code utilization system of the fifth embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment in terms of hardware configuration, and the configuration as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 described above is used.

  In the above-described embodiment, the characteristic information code 100 configured as the frame QR is exemplified, but the present invention is not limited to such an example. For example, an empty area as described above is provided by overwriting or the like in a cell arrangement area of a general two-dimensional code (for example, QR code) capable of error correction, and data in an area collapsed by such an empty area is erroneous. You may make it restore | restore by correction. As described above, any configuration can be applied as long as the free area can be restored by error correction. An example will be described below.

  In the information code utilization system of the fifth embodiment, the information code 200 as shown in FIG. 26B is generated by the information code generation device 2 (see FIG. 1 and the like). Even in this configuration, a specific pattern area in which a specific pattern (position detection pattern 204) having a predetermined shape is arranged inside the code area, a data recording area in which data is recorded by a plurality of types of cells, and a data recording area A free area 210 is provided in which at least one of data recording and design display is possible by a method different from the method of recording data.

  In this configuration, the configuration other than the configuration in the empty area 210 is configured as a known QR code (registered trademark). First, as shown in FIG. A recording area and an error correction code recording area for recording an error correction code by a plurality of types of cells are provided. The recording method of the data code word in the data recording area and the recording method of the error correction code word in the error correction code recording area are the same as the known QR code (registered trademark), for example, a method defined in JISX0510 The arrangement of the position detection pattern 204 in the code area, the arrangement of the data code word in the data recording area, and the arrangement of the error correction code word in the error correction code recording area are determined.

  However, as shown in FIG. 26 (A), an information code 200 ′ is generated in which a code word in a partial area is configured as a code word expressed only by white cells, and thus an area expressed only by white cells. AR is a free area 210. In the example of FIG. 26B, the same image as that of FIG. 1 of the first embodiment is represented in the empty area 210. When configured in this way, the configuration is different from the original data display as shown in FIG. 26A, but the error in the data in the empty area 210 is corrected by the error correction recorded in the error correction code recording area. A known error correction may be performed using a code.

  In addition, in the information code 200 shown in FIG. 26B, the position of the empty area 210 is specified in advance. Therefore, when the design and information are added and displayed in the empty area 210, the error position by this display is set in advance. I know that. Therefore, the error correction code in the error correction code recording area can be configured to perform erasure correction using the position of the empty area 210 as the error position. In this case, information indicating the position of the vacant area 210 is recorded in the data recording area in advance, or stored in the reading apparatus 10 (FIG. 1) in advance, so that the reading apparatus 10 can read the vacant area at the time of reading. The position of 210 (that is, the position of the data code word in which an error has occurred) can be specified, and the reader 10 can determine the position of the data code word existing in the empty area 210 whose position is specified in this way. In order to correct the error, the erasure correction may be performed using the error correction code recorded in the error correction code recording area.

  Further, when a part of the existing QR code (registered trademark) is configured as the empty area 210 as shown in FIG. 26, the identification information as shown in FIG. 28A is included in the data recorded in the data recording area. Just keep it. FIG. 28A conceptually shows the structure of the data to be decrypted recorded in the data recording area. In this example, data of a predetermined structure (%% IMAGE %%) is present at the beginning of the data to be decrypted. It is attached. With this configuration, when the reading apparatus 10 detects this identification information (%% IMAGE %%) from the data to be decoded recorded in the data recording area, for example, the image of the empty area 210 is detected. The recognition process can be performed. Conversely, when the identification information (%% IMAGA %%) cannot be detected, the normal decoding process is performed. In this example, it is desirable that the data in the data recording area includes position data for specifying the position of the empty area 210 and other accompanying information in addition to the normal data. The data shown in FIG. 28 (A) shows the data to be decoded that is arranged before the end terminal in the data recorded in the data recording area, and the padding that is arranged after the end terminal. The code is omitted. In this configuration, for example, the entire area of the padding code can be displayed with only white cells, and this area can be handled as the empty area 210.

  Even in such an example, a feature area (for example, an area including a format area indicated by a two-dot chain line in FIG. 26B), a specific pattern area, and an empty area 210 in the same manner as in the fourth embodiment. Other than the combination candidate (any one of combination candidates 1, 2 and 3) described in the fourth embodiment. In decoding, the fixed area (format area indicated by a two-dot chain line in FIG. 26B) is read at the cell position corresponding to the combination candidate 1, and the cell corresponding to the combination candidate 2 is read. The reading at the position and the reading at the cell position corresponding to the combination candidate 3 are all performed, the combination candidate that is successfully read is identified, and the other region (data) is read by the reading method associated with the successful combination candidate. The recording area, error correction data recording area, etc.) may be decoded. For example, when a format area, a data recording area, and an error correction data recording area indicated by a two-dot chain line are configured by combination candidate 2 (second candidate), that is, a light cell in which the entire small area is expressed in white (A light cell similar to FIG. 10E) and a dark cell (a dark cell similar to FIG. 10C) in which a crescent-shaped black-filled region is represented in a part of the small region is arranged. The format area indicated by the two-dot chain line is successfully read by the reading method corresponding to the combination candidate 2 (reading at the cell position corresponding to the combination candidate 2). The data recording area is also read by the reading method corresponding to the combination candidate 2.

  In this example, the QR code (registered trademark) having the free area 210 is taken as an example. However, the feature area can be similarly configured with a QR code having no free area 210. A cell recognition method may be specified based on the decoding results of a plurality of methods for a fixed area (format information area or the like), and the specified result may be applied to other areas.

[Sixth Embodiment]
Next, a sixth embodiment will be described.
The information code utilization system of the sixth embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment in terms of hardware configuration, and the configuration as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is used.

  In the information code utilization system of the sixth embodiment, the information code 300 as shown in FIG. 27B is generated by the information code generation device 2 (see FIG. 1 and the like). Even in this configuration, a specific pattern having a predetermined shape (L-shaped alignment pattern 304a and light cells and dark cells are alternately arranged one by one inside the code region, and L along the boundary of the code region. A specific pattern area in which a timing pattern (timing cell) 304b) constituting a character-shaped area is arranged, and a data recording area in which data is recorded by a plurality of types of cells are provided. The empty area 310 in which at least one of data recording and design display can be performed at a position different from the method of recording data in the data recording area is set to a predetermined size larger than the size of a single cell. Is provided.

  In this configuration, except for the configuration of the empty area 310, it is configured as a known data matrix code. First, as shown in FIG. 27A, a specific pattern area, a data recording area, An error correction code recording area for recording an error correction code by a plurality of types of cells is provided. The recording method of the data code word in the data recording area and the recording method of the error correction code word in the error correction code recording area are the same as the known data matrix code, and the alignment pattern 304a and timing pattern 304b in the code area. The arrangement of the data code word in the data recording area and the arrangement of the error correction code word in the error correction code recording area are determined in accordance with, for example, the ECC200 version.

  However, as shown in FIG. 27A, an information code 300 ′ in which a code word of a partial area is configured as a code word represented only by white cells is generated, and thus an area represented only by white cells. With AR as a free area 310, an image is represented in this free area 310 as shown in FIG. When an image is displayed in the empty area 310 as shown in FIG. 27B, the configuration is different from the original data display as shown in FIG. 27A, but an error in the data in the empty area 310 is an error. Known error correction may be performed using the error correction code recorded in the correction code recording area.

  In addition, in the information code 300 shown in FIG. 27B, the position of the empty area 310 is specified in advance. Therefore, when the design and information are added and displayed in the empty area 310, the error position by this display is set in advance. I know that. Therefore, the error correction code in the error correction code recording area can be configured to perform erasure correction using the position of the empty area 310 as the error position. In this case, information indicating the position of the empty area 310 is recorded in the data recording area in advance, or is stored in the reading apparatus 10 (FIG. 1) in advance, so that the reading apparatus 10 can read the empty area at the time of reading. The position of 310 (that is, the position of the data code word in which an error has occurred) can be specified, and the reader 10 can determine the position of the data code word existing in the empty area 310 in which the position is specified in this way. In order to correct the error, the erasure correction may be performed using the error correction code recorded in the error correction code recording area.

  Further, when a part of the existing data matrix code is configured as the empty area 310 as shown in FIG. 27, the identification information as shown in FIG. 28B should be included in the data recorded in the data recording area. Good. FIG. 28 (B) conceptually shows the structure of the data to be decrypted recorded in the data recording area. In this example, data of a predetermined structure (%% IMAGE %%) is present at the beginning of the data to be decrypted. It is attached. If configured in this way, the reading device 10 detects the identification information (%% IMAGE %%) from the data to be decoded recorded in the data recording area, and performs image recognition processing for the free area 310. Conversely, when the identification information (%% IMAGE %%) cannot be detected, a normal decoding process is performed. In this example, it is desirable that the data in the data recording area includes position data for specifying the position of the image area and other accompanying information in addition to the normal data.

  Even in such an example, the feature region can be configured by the same method as in the fourth and fifth embodiments, and the brightness and darkness of the feature region is configured by any combination candidate described in the fourth embodiment. can do. At the time of decoding, for any one of the fixed areas, reading at the cell position corresponding to the combination candidate 1, reading at the cell position corresponding to the combination candidate 2, and the cell corresponding to the combination candidate 3 Perform all reading at the position, identify a combination candidate that succeeds in reading, and decode other areas (data recording area, error correction data recording area, etc.) using the reading method associated with the successful combination candidate. That's fine.

  In this example, the data matrix code provided with the free area 310 is taken as an example. However, the feature area can be similarly configured with the data matrix code without the free area 310. In this case, the fixed area is also used. Based on the decoding results of a plurality of methods, the cell recognition method is specified, and the specified result is applied to other regions.

[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.

  The present invention can also be configured as a display device capable of displaying any one, plural, or all of the information codes described above. Moreover, it can also be configured as a printing apparatus capable of printing any one, plural or all of the information codes described above. Furthermore, it can also be configured as a computer-readable program for generating any one, plural or all of the information codes described above. Moreover, it can also be comprised as a recording medium which recorded the program for producing | generating the 1 or several or all the information code mentioned above. Furthermore, it can also be grasped as an information code medium (a printed material, a formed material formed by direct marking, etc.) to which one or a plurality of or all information codes are attached. Moreover, it can also be grasped as a display image on which one, a plurality, or all of the information codes described above are displayed.

  1 and the like show an example in which the information code generation device 2 and the information code reading device 10 are configured as separate devices, but the information code generation device 2 may be configured as the information code reading device 10. Good. In addition, the information code generation device 2 may be configured by a plurality of devices, and the information code reading device 10 may be configured by a plurality of devices.

  In the above embodiment, a QR code is taken as an example of the other type code, and a specific pattern of the QR code is given as an example of the specific pattern used in the information code 100. However, other types of two-dimensional codes may be used. For example, a data matrix code may be used as the other type code, and a specific pattern used in the information code 100 may be used as the specific pattern of the data matrix code.

In the various embodiments described above, an example in which the empty area 110 is mainly provided in the center of the code area has been shown, but the arrangement of the empty area 110 is not limited to this example. For example, an empty area may be provided near the periphery of the code area. Further, as the design of the empty area, various other designs can be adopted as long as the configuration includes a figure, a pattern, a color, or a combination thereof. In addition, when information is displayed instead of the design or together with the design, the contents of the information are various. In addition, the “code area” may be a minimum square area or rectangular area that includes all of a plurality of types of cells constituting the information code, and the cells may not be arranged at a part of the inner edge of the code area. .
For example, as shown in the information code 800 of FIG. 29, the empty area 810 may be formed adjacent to the periphery of the code area. In this case, the minimum square area or rectangular area including all of the plurality of types of cells constituting the information code 800 is as indicated by a one-dot chain line AR, and the outer edge of the empty area 810 is as indicated by a two-dot chain line AR2, for example. Further, it is sufficient that at least a part of the empty area exists in the code area. Like the image area AR3 in FIG. 30, a pattern or the like (image 612 in FIG. 30) continuing from the empty area 810 exists outside the code area. It may be a configuration. In the example as shown in FIG. 30, information for specifying the range of the image area AR3 (the area of the empty area 810 and the area of the outer image following the image area AR3) may be recorded in advance in the data recording area. .

  In the various embodiments described above, the bright cell such as the white cell and the dark cell such as the black cell are mainly exemplified as the plurality of types of cells constituting the code area. However, the specific pattern area and data in the code area are exemplified. The recording area and the error correction code recording area are configured as a first type cell having a predetermined density, luminance, and color, and a second type cell that is different in density, luminance, or color from the first type cell. Also good. Alternatively, the specific pattern area, the data recording area, and the error correction code recording area in the code area may be configured by three or more types of cells each having different density, luminance, or color.

  In the above-described embodiments (mainly, the first and fourth embodiments), as the cell shape, a square cell, a crescent-shaped cell, and a donut-shaped cell are illustrated, but the cell shape is a figure other than these ( For example, it may be a polygon other than a rectangle, or a figure such as a circle or an ellipse.

  In the above embodiment, the position detection pattern 104, the timing pattern 106, the separator 109, and the like are illustrated as examples of the specific pattern. However, the specific pattern is an area configured as a fixed pattern regardless of the contents of the data recording area and the error correction code recording area. If so, the graphic forming the specific pattern may be another unique graphic.

  In the above embodiment, an example of an empty area is shown. However, an empty area is an area where data to be decoded is not recorded by a cell, and information display or image display is performed by a method different from the method of recording data in the data recording area. Any area may be used as long as it is a display area. For example, as in the first embodiment, a vacant area may be configured as an area where no code word is arranged. In a known QR code, an error correction code word that represents an error correction code or data to be decoded is used. An area where a data code word to be expressed is not arranged and a padding code word is arranged may be a free area. Further, in any free area, “information display by a method different from the method of recording data in the data recording area by cell” can be performed, and this information display is exemplified in the above embodiment. In addition to information, other information such as letters, numbers, and other symbols may be used, or a method of displaying information that represents a specific product or service by a trademark or the like may be used. Further, in the free area, “image display by a method different from the method of recording data in the data recording area by cell” can be performed, and the display of this image is not limited to the image exemplified in the above embodiment, Various shapes, patterns, colors, combinations thereof, and the like can be represented.

Further, the information code 900 of FIG. 31 may be used. This example is a configuration in which a free area similar to that of the first embodiment is provided, but the method for specifying the free area is different from that of the first embodiment. In the example of FIG. 31, the specific contents of the areas other than some of the specific patterns are omitted, and in fact, light cells and dark cells are arranged in the external area outside the empty area 910. Become. In the free space 910, for example, an image similar to the free space 110 of the first embodiment or an image similar to the free space of other embodiments is displayed.
Also in this configuration, a plurality of model numbers are prepared for the type of the information code 900. For each model number, the number of rows and columns of cells, the shape and position of a specific pattern, the position of format information, and the candidate position (address) of a code word Is predetermined. When the generation device 2 generates the information code 900, the model number information is arranged at a predetermined position in the code area (in the example of FIG. 31, the reserved area 107 as a header storage area). Yes. Note that the reserved area 107 is merely an example, and may be provided as a fixed area wider than this. When the reading device 10 reads the information code 900, the code image of the information code 900 is analyzed, and the model number information arranged at a predetermined position is read, so that the number of rows and columns of cells of the information code 900, the specific pattern It is possible to grasp the shape and position, the position of the format information, and the candidate position (address) of the code word.
When generating the information code 900, one of the model numbers is selected from a plurality of model numbers prepared in advance. Thereby, the basic configuration (the position of the specific pattern 104, the number of rows and columns of cells, the candidate position of the code word) in the code area is determined. For example, the model number of the configuration shown in FIG. 31 has a cell array of 29 rows and 29 columns, and a specific pattern 104 having the same structure as a QR code (registered trademark) cut-out symbol at three predetermined corners. Is arranged. An area (predetermined position 105) for recording format information is provided at a predetermined position near the specific pattern 104. In addition, in the 29 × 29 matrix area, codeword candidate positions are determined in advance at positions other than the specific pattern 104 and the predetermined position 105, and addresses from 0 to 67 are assigned to the candidate positions. . In this way, since the configuration in the code area is defined in advance in the configuration corresponding to the model number, if the model number is specified, it is possible to specify which order code word is arranged at which position. Become. The information of the determined model number is recorded at a predetermined fixed position in the model number array. For example, in the example of FIG. 31, model number information is recorded in an area 107 specified by a predetermined type of hatching.
After the model number is determined and the basic configuration in the code area is determined, the shape and position of the empty area are determined. The method for determining the shape of the vacant area may be determined by, for example, a method of selecting from a plurality of candidate shapes prepared in advance, or shape designation information input from the outside to the information code generation device 2 You may decide by the method of setting to the shape according to. Or you may determine only to the fixed shape decided. Further, the position of the empty area may be determined as a predetermined fixed position, or may be determined by inputting information for designating the position by the user. If the information on the position and shape of the vacant area is stored in the reserved area 107 and other areas described above, the position of the vacant area can be specified at the time of reading.
After the vacant area is determined, the information code 900 is configured such that the code word in the data recording area and the code word in the error correction code recording area are respectively arranged at the candidate position of the code word that deviates from the determined vacant area position. Is generated. For example, in the model number configured as shown in FIG. 31, specific patterns 104 are arranged at three corners, and 68 codeword candidates numbered from 0 to 67 on the basis of the positions of the specific patterns 104 are used. The position is defined in advance. In such a layout, when the empty area 910 is determined as shown in FIG. 31, codeword candidate positions that at least partially fall within the empty area 910 are excluded from the arrangement target positions, and the positions of the excluded codewords The code words are arranged in order as if skipping. For example, in the example of FIG. 31, since the empty area 910 is set so as to enter the candidate positions of the code words 50, 51, 53, 54, and 60 to 67, these 50, 51, 53, Code words are not arranged at the candidate positions of the 54th and 60th to 67th codewords. That is, after the code words are arranged in order at positions 0 to 49, the code words 50 and 51 are skipped and the code words are arranged at the position 52, and then the codes 53 and 54 are skipped and the codes 55 to 59 are skipped. The code words are arranged in order at the positions. In this way, the data code word obtained by encoding the data to be decoded and the error correction code word representing the error correction code can be reliably arranged at the candidate positions outside the empty area 910.
After determining the specific pattern area (specific pattern 104 or other specific pattern area), the format area (predetermined position 105), the model number area 107, each codeword area, and the like, the specific contents of the empty area 910 are determined. To decide. In this information code 900 as well, an information code 900 having the same function as in FIG. 1 can be configured by representing an image similar to the empty area 110 in the empty area 910. Note that the method of using the information code 900 is the same as in the first embodiment and other embodiments.
In this example, the same method as in the first embodiment may be applied. For example, one of the areas is a header storage area configured as a fixed area, and the feature information is recorded in the header storage area, while the state of the small area in the feature area specified by the feature information is A structure in which the cell position is specified by the feature information may be used. Alternatively, the ideas of other embodiments other than the first embodiment may be applied.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Information code utilization system 2 ... Information code generator 3 ... Control part 10 ... Information code reader 23 ... Light receiving sensor (imaging part)
40... Control circuit (reading unit, specific information reading unit, feature region decoding unit, evaluation method specifying unit)
100 ... Information code 102 ... Cell 104 ... Position detection pattern (specific pattern)
106 ... Timing pattern (specific pattern)
109 ... Separator (specific pattern)
110: Free area 112 ... Header storage area (basic information recording area, fixed area)
Ca1 ... Code region Ca2 ... Small region A1-A25 ... Subdivided region E1, E2 ... Feature region

Claims (18)

An information code generation method for generating an information code in a form in which cells serving as units for displaying information are arranged in each of a plurality of small areas within a predetermined code area,
A specific pattern area in which a specific pattern having a predetermined shape is arranged inside the code area, a data recording area for recording data to be decoded by a plurality of types of cells, and the data recording area recorded in the data recording area A basic information recording area for recording basic information for reading the data to be decoded; and
Inside the code region, at least a part or all of the cell arrangement region other than the specific pattern region is a feature region that sets the state of the cell in the small region as a predetermined state,
In the basic information recording area, recording specific information for specifying the evaluation method of the cell in the small area in the feature area,
In the feature region, the arrangement and shape of the cells in the small region are a predetermined cell arrangement and a predetermined cell shape,
In the basic information recording area, as the specifying information, cell position information for specifying the existence position of the cell in the small area of the feature area is recorded,
A subdivision method for dividing the small region into a plurality of subregions is predetermined,
The cell position information is region designation information for designating at least a region where the cell exists among the plurality of subdivision regions divided by the subdivision method in the small region. Information code generation method.   In the basic information recording area, cell display evaluation information for specifying an evaluation method of at least one of hue, density, and luminance of the cell in the small area of the characteristic area is recorded as the specific information. The information code generating method according to claim 1. In the code area, as the cells, light cells and dark cells are arranged,
The threshold information for identifying the light cell and the dark cell in the small region of the feature region is recorded in the basic information recording region as the cell display evaluation information. A method for generating the information code described in 1.   In the basic information recording area, as the cell display evaluation information, the weights of the R element, the G element, and the B element in analyzing the captured image of the cell arranged in the small area of the feature area are designated. 4. The information code generation method according to claim 2, wherein weighting designation information is recorded.   5. The information code generation method according to claim 1, wherein feature area position information for specifying a position of the feature area is recorded in the basic information recording area. 6. The feature region is constituted by a plurality of types of individual regions, the state of the cell is determined for each of the individual regions,
In the basic information recording area, individual area position information for specifying each position of each of the individual areas and an individual method for specifying the cell evaluation method in the small area of each of the individual areas 6. The method for generating an information code according to claim 1, wherein region evaluation information is recorded.   The information code generation method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the basic information recording area is provided in a predetermined fixed area in the code area. Inside the code area, the specific pattern area, the data recording area, the basic information recording area, and an error correction code recording area for recording an error correction code by a plurality of types of cells,
In a method different from the method of recording data in the data recording area at a position other than the specific pattern area, the data recording area, the basic information recording area, and the error correction code recording area inside the code area, 8. The free space where at least one of data recording and design display is possible is provided with a predetermined size larger than the size of the single cell. Information code generation method described in 1. An information code in which cells serving as units for displaying information are arranged in each of a plurality of small areas inside a predetermined code area,
A specific pattern area in which a specific pattern having a predetermined shape is arranged inside the code area, a data recording area for recording data to be decoded by a plurality of types of cells, and the data recording area recorded in the data recording area A basic information recording area for recording basic information for reading the data to be decoded, and
Inside the code region, at least a part or all of the cell arrangement region other than the specific pattern region is configured as a feature region in which the state of the cell in the small region is in a predetermined state,
In the basic information recording area, specific information for specifying the evaluation method of the cell in the small area in the feature area is recorded,
In the feature region, the arrangement and shape of the cells in the small region are a predetermined cell arrangement and a predetermined cell shape,
In the basic information recording area, cell position information for specifying the existence position of the cell in the small area of the feature area is recorded as the specific information,
A subdivision method for dividing the small region into a plurality of subregions is predetermined,
The cell position information is region designation information for designating at least a region where the cell exists among the plurality of subdivision regions divided by the subdivision method in the small region. Information code. An information code generating device that generates an information code in a form in which cells serving as units for displaying information are arranged in each of a plurality of small areas within a predetermined code area;
An information code reader for reading the information code;
With
The information code generation device includes:
A specific pattern area in which a specific pattern having a predetermined shape is arranged inside the code area, a data recording area for recording data to be decoded by a plurality of types of cells, and the data recording area recorded in the data recording area A basic information recording area for recording basic information for reading the data to be decoded; and
Inside the code region, at least a part or all of the cell arrangement region other than the specific pattern region is a feature region that sets the state of the cell in the small region as a predetermined state,
The information code is generated in a form in which specific information for specifying an evaluation method of the cell in the small area in the feature area is recorded in the basic information recording area,
The information code reader is
An imaging unit for imaging the information code;
A reading unit that reads the information code imaged by the imaging unit;
With
The reading unit is
A specific information reading unit that analyzes the basic information recording area and reads the specific information in a captured image of the information code imaged by the imaging unit;
A feature region decoding unit that specifies a method for evaluating the cell in the small region in the feature region based on the specific information read by the specific information reading unit, and that decodes data recorded in the feature region; ,
Have
The information code generation device includes:
In the feature area, the arrangement and shape of the cells in the small area are set to a predetermined cell arrangement and a predetermined cell shape, and the cell position information for specifying the position of the cell in the small area of the feature area is specified. Generating the information code in the form recorded in the basic information recording area as information,
A subdivision method for dividing the small region into a plurality of subregions is predetermined,
The cell position information is region designation information for designating at least a region where the cell exists among the plurality of subdivision regions divided by the subdivision method in the small region. Information code reading system.   The information code generating device uses the cell display evaluation information for specifying an evaluation method of at least one of the hue, density, and luminance of the cell in the small area of the feature area as the specific information in the basic information recording area. The information code reading system according to claim 10, wherein the information code is generated in a recorded form. The information code generation device includes:
In the code area, light cells and dark cells are arranged as the cells, and threshold information used for identifying the light cells and the dark cells in the small area of the feature area is used as the cell display evaluation information. 12. The information code reading system according to claim 11, wherein the information code is generated in a form recorded in the basic information recording area. The information code generation device includes:
In the basic information recording, the weight designation information for designating the weight of the R element, G element, and B element in analyzing the captured image of the cell arranged in the small area of the feature area is used as the cell display evaluation information. 13. The information code reading system according to claim 11, wherein the information code is generated in a form recorded in an area. The information code generation device includes:
The information code is generated in a form in which feature area position information for specifying the position of the feature area is recorded in the basic information recording area. Information code reading system. The information code generation device includes:
The feature region is constituted by a plurality of types of individual regions, the state of the cell is determined for each of the individual regions, and individual region position information for specifying each position of each of the individual regions, 11. The information code is generated in a form in which individual area evaluation information for specifying each cell evaluation method in the small area of the individual area is recorded in the basic information recording area. The information code reading system according to claim 14.   16. The information code generation device according to claim 10, wherein the information code generation device generates the information code in a form in which the basic information recording area is provided in a predetermined fixed area in the code area. The information code reading system according to one item. The information code generation device includes:
Inside the code area, the specific pattern area, the data recording area, the basic information recording area, and an error correction code recording area for recording an error correction code by a plurality of types of cells,
In a method different from the method of recording data in the data recording area at a position other than the specific pattern area, the data recording area, the basic information recording area, and the error correction code recording area inside the code area, 11. The information code is generated in such a manner that an empty area in which at least one of data recording and design display is possible is provided with a predetermined size larger than the size of the single cell. The information code reading system according to claim 16. An information code reading device that reads an information code in which cells serving as units for displaying information are arranged in each of a plurality of small areas inside a predetermined code area,
The information code to be read is
A specific pattern area in which a specific pattern having a predetermined shape is arranged inside the code area, a data recording area for recording data to be decoded by a plurality of types of cells, and the data recording area recorded in the data recording area A basic information recording area for recording basic information for reading the data to be decoded, and
Inside the code region, at least a part or all of the cell arrangement region other than the specific pattern region is configured as a feature region in which the state of the cell in the small region is in a predetermined state,
In the basic information recording area, specific information for specifying the evaluation method of the cell in the small area in the feature area is recorded,
An imaging unit for imaging the information code;
A reading unit that reads the information code imaged by the imaging unit;
With
The reading unit is
A specific information reading unit that analyzes the basic information recording area and reads the specific information in a captured image of the information code imaged by the imaging unit;
A feature region decoding unit that specifies a method for evaluating the cell in the small region in the feature region based on the specific information read by the specific information reading unit, and that decodes data recorded in the feature region; ,
Have
In the feature region, the arrangement and shape of the cells in the small region are a predetermined cell arrangement and a predetermined cell shape,
In the basic information recording area, cell position information for specifying the existence position of the cell in the small area of the feature area is recorded as the specific information,
A subdivision method for dividing the small region into a plurality of subregions is predetermined,
The cell position information is region designation information for designating at least a region where the cell exists among the plurality of subdivision regions divided by the subdivision method in the small region. Information code reader.