JP7176589B2 - Information reader - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an information reader.

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, an optical information reader disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2002-200010, for example, is known as a technique for placing a display medium to be read on an information reader at a position where an image can be captured. This optical information reader comprises a reading unit for reading an information code, an arm on which the reading unit is arranged on the bottom surface, a base for supporting the arm, and an object to be read (display medium) to which the information code is assigned. and a placement portion on which the is placed. Then, in a state in which the placement position of the object to be read is regulated by the first position regulating member provided on the placing portion, the information code positioned below the object to be read is read by the reading portion positioned above the object to be read. . This eliminates the need for alignment time for moving the object to be read to an appropriate position with respect to the reading unit, and the information code can be read quickly.

JP 2014-215898 A

By the way, in the configuration in which the loading unit for loading the display medium to be read is provided below the reading unit (reading port) as in the above-mentioned Patent Document 1, the reading device itself interferes and the comparison becomes like a passport. In some cases, it is difficult to place a large display medium at a position where it is easy to capture an image with respect to the reading port.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and the purpose thereof is to provide a configuration in which an image of a display medium is imaged by an imaging means through a reading port formed on the upper surface of a case. Another object of the present invention is to provide an information reader capable of easily reading display information and capturing an image, and preventing foreign matter from entering the interior of a case containing an illumination light source and an image capturing means from the outside of the case.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention described in claim 1 of the scope of claims includes:
A stationary information reader for reading display information displayed on a display medium by forming a rectangular reading port on the upper surface of a case and capturing an image of a display medium through the reading port by an imaging means,
At least an illumination light source and the imaging means are housed inside the case,
the reading port is configured by closing an opening formed in the upper surface with a light-transmitting member;
a second light source arranged on the short edge side of the reading port within a range where the light transmissive member is provided on the upper surface of the case;
light source control means for controlling the second light source to emit light in a direction in which the display medium is held in order to notify the reading result of the display information;
characterized by comprising

In the first aspect of the invention, the case accommodates at least the illumination light source and the imaging means, and the reading port is configured by closing the opening formed on the upper surface with a light-transmitting member. This makes it difficult for foreign matter from outside the case to enter the inside of the case in which the illumination light source and the imaging means are accommodated.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a state in which the attachment according to the first embodiment is attached to the information reading device; FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a display state of a passport; 2 is a plan view of the information reader of FIG. 1; FIG. FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically showing an AA cross section of the information reading device of FIG. 3; FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically showing a BB cross section of the information reading device of FIG. 4; FIG. 5 is a schematic sectional view schematically showing a CC section of the information reading device of FIG. 4; FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically showing a DD cross section of the information reading device of FIG. 4; 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically showing an EE cross section of the information reading device of FIG. 4; FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically illustrating an electrical configuration of the information reader of FIG. 1; FIG. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a high illuminance area and the like configured by the information reading device of FIG. 1; FIG. 2 is a perspective view schematically showing the attachment of FIG. 1; Figure 12 is a plan view of the attachment of Figure 11; Figure 12 is a side view of the attachment of Figure 11; FIG. 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically showing the FF cross section of the attachment of FIG. 12; 2 is a perspective view showing a state in which a passport is placed on the placing portion of the attachment of FIG. 1; FIG. FIG. 2 is a plan view showing a state in which a passport is placed on the placing portion of the attachment shown in FIG. 1; FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a state in which the attachment according to the second embodiment is attached to the information reading device; 18 is a perspective view schematically showing the attachment of FIG. 17; FIG. Figure 19 is a plan view of the attachment of Figure 18; Figure 19 is a side view of the attachment of Figure 18; FIG. 20 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically showing a GG cross section of the attachment of FIG. 19; 21 is an enlarged view showing an enlarged portion H of FIG. 20; FIG. 18 is a perspective view showing a state in which a passport is placed on the placing portion of the attachment of FIG. 17; FIG. FIG. 18 is a plan view showing a state in which a passport is placed on the placing portion of the attachment shown in FIG. 17; FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing a state in which the attachment according to the third embodiment is attached to the information reading device; It is a top view of the attachment which shows the principal part of 4th Embodiment. FIG. 27 is an explanatory diagram showing a captured image captured with the attachment shown in FIG. 26 attached; It is a top view of the attachment which shows the principal part of the modification of 4th Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing of the captured image which shows the principal part of 5th Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing of the captured image which shows the principal part of the modification of 5th Embodiment. It is an explanatory view showing a specific pattern concerning a 6th embodiment. 7 is a graph showing changes in luminance values obtained when a specific pattern is imaged; FIG. 33 is a graph showing changes in brightness values obtained when a pattern obtained by copying the specific pattern imaged in FIG. 32 is imaged; FIG. FIG. 21 is a perspective view showing a state in which an attachment according to a seventh embodiment is attached to an information reading device; FIG. 14 is a plan view showing a state where the attachment according to the seventh embodiment is attached to the information reading device; It is a cross-sectional view for explaining a state in which a passport is placed on the plate. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view for explaining a state in which a passport whose display surface is formed of a soft paper surface is placed on the placing portion; FIG. 21 is a perspective view showing a state in which an attachment according to an eighth embodiment is attached to an information reading device; FIG. 21 is a perspective view showing a state in which an attachment according to a modified example of the eighth embodiment is attached to an information reading device; It is a schematic sectional drawing of the information reader and attachment which show the principal part of 9th Embodiment. 41 is a block diagram schematically illustrating an electrical configuration of the information reader of FIG. 40; FIG. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing the visual field range of the imaging unit when capturing an image of the passport placed on the placement unit; FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing the relationship between the illuminance distribution near the reading port and the illuminance distribution near the placement section; It is a schematic sectional drawing of the information reader and attachment which show the principal part of 10th Embodiment. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing the illuminance distribution in the vicinity of the mounting section when second illumination light with a small irradiation angle is directly irradiated; FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an enlarged illuminance distribution in the vicinity of the mounting section when second illumination light with a small irradiation angle is indirectly irradiated using the first illuminance adjusting member; FIG. 20 is an explanatory diagram showing the illuminance distribution in the vicinity of the placing section when the second illuminance adjusting member is used in the modification of the tenth embodiment; FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of light source control processing by the control circuit of the information reading device according to the eleventh embodiment; FIG. FIG. 11 is a plan view showing a state in which a passport is placed on a placement portion of an attachment according to a modification;

[First embodiment]
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS A first embodiment embodying a stationary information reader to which an attachment for an information reader according to the present invention is assembled will be described below with reference to the drawings.
A stationary information reading device 1 shown in FIG. 1 is a stationary reading device that is placed on the top surface of a desk, shelf, or the like as a placement surface. is configured as an information reading device for reading display information displayed on the display medium by imaging the . As the display medium, for example, a screen on which a passport or an information code is displayed is assumed. Therefore, the information reading device 1 has a function of reading imaged information, such as a well-known symbol recognition processing function (OCR) for recognizing imaged character information and a function as an information code reader for reading an imaged information code. is configured to

For example, when a passport 100 as shown in FIG. 2 is the display medium, the character information 102 displayed in the lower column of the display screen 101 on which the photograph of the face is displayed is the display information to be read. The attachment 60 shown in FIG. 1 is an information reader attachment that functions as a mounting table for placing the passport 100 when the character information 102 is imaged, and is detachably attached to the information reader 1. (Detailed shape will be described later). In addition, as the information code serving as display information, for example, a known code configured by arranging a plurality of types of cells such as a one-dimensional code such as a bar code and a two-dimensional code such as a QR code (registered trademark) is assumed. be able to.

First, the configuration of the information reader 1 will be described in detail.
The information reader 1 includes a case 3 made of a resin material such as ABS resin. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the case 3 includes an upper case 4a and a lower case 4b. The upper case 4a and the lower case 4b are vertically assembled to form a box shape as a whole. formed. Inside the case 3, components such as a reflecting member 29, an imaging unit 27, an imaging unit 23, and a light guide member 50, which will be described later, are accommodated. Further, as shown in FIG. 3 and the like, a reading port 5 serving as an entrance and exit for light is formed in the upper surface portion (reading side wall portion 3a) of the case 3, and light from the outside of the case passes through the reading port 5 to the case. It enters inside and the light from inside the case is emitted to the outside of the case. The optical system composed of the reflecting member 29 , the imaging unit 27 and the imaging unit 23 functions to image the display medium outside the case through the reading port 5 .

The box-shaped case 3 is provided with a bottom wall portion 3b provided on the mounting surface side (mounting surface F side) when the information reading device 1 is mounted, and a reading opening 5. It is provided facing the reading side wall portion 3a. The bottom wall portion 3b is arranged so as to be supported by the mounting surface F, and the reading side wall portion 3a opposed to the bottom wall portion 3b is configured as an exposed wall portion on the side that faces the display medium. In this configuration, the direction in which the bottom wall portion 3b and the reading side wall portion 3a face each other (that is, the thickness direction of the case 3 and the direction perpendicular to the mounting surface F shown in FIG. 4) is defined as the vertical direction. The side on which the port 5 is formed (the reading side wall portion 3a side) is the upper side, and the opposite side (the bottom wall portion 3b side) is the lower side. A plane direction perpendicular to the up-down direction is defined as a horizontal direction. The thickness direction of the plate 7 (that is, the direction perpendicular to the plate surface of the plate 7) is also the vertical direction, and the direction of the optical axis L2 of the second visual field range AR2, which will be described later, is also the vertical direction.

A plate 7 is arranged on the upper surface side of the case 3 so as to close the opening 4c formed at the upper end of the upper case 4a. The plate 7 is configured as a flat plate having a predetermined thickness and is made of a light-transmitting member (for example, transparent acrylic resin, transparent glass, etc.) through which light from the outside of the case 3 can pass. there is This plate 7 functions as a dustproof plate, and by closing the opening 4c formed in the upper case 4a by such a plate 7, the case 3 is closed and the inside of the case 3 (in particular, the reflecting member 29, the imaging unit 27, the imaging unit 23, etc.), foreign matter (dust, dust, etc.) from outside the case is less likely to enter. A coating layer 8 made of light-blocking paint or the like is formed so as to partially cover the upper surface of the plate 7 (the plate surface on the side exposed to the outside of the case). The cover layer 8 is formed in an annular shape along the peripheral edge of the plate 7 , and the opening defined by the inner edge of the cover layer 8 serves as the reading port 5 .

Next, the electrical configuration of the information reader 1 will be described. As shown in FIG. 9, the information reading device 1 mainly includes an optical system such as an illumination light source 21, an imaging unit 27, and an imaging unit 23, and a microcomputer such as a memory 35 and a control circuit 40 (hereinafter referred to as "microcomputer"). ) system and a power supply system such as a power supply unit and a power switch (not shown).

The optical system is divided into a projecting optical system and a receiving optical system. The illumination light source 21 constituting the light projecting optical system functions as a light source capable of emitting illumination light, and is composed of, for example, an LED. The illumination light source 21 includes first light sources 21a and 21b arranged on one side in the longitudinal direction of the case 3, and second light sources 21c and 21d arranged on the other side in the longitudinal direction of the case 3. Each of the light sources 21a, 21b and the second light sources 21c, 21d is configured as a light projecting element such as an LED, and has a function of irradiating illumination light horizontally with respect to the vertical direction.

Further, as shown in FIGS. 3 to 8, the projection optical system includes a light guide member 50 that guides the light from the illumination light source 21. As shown in FIG. The light guide member 50 is arranged inside the case 3 at a position where the illumination light from the illumination light source 21 is irradiated, and the illumination light from the illumination light source 21 passes through the opening region γ (see FIG. 4 etc.) of the reading port 5. The light is guided through the case 3 so as to be irradiated to the outside of the case 3 . Details of the light guide member 50 will be described later.

As shown in FIG. 9, the light-receiving optical system includes an imaging section 23, an imaging section 27, a reflecting member 29 (FIGS. 3, 4, etc.) and the like. The imaging unit 23 is composed of, for example, a light receiving sensor (area sensor) in which solid-state imaging devices (light receiving devices) such as CCD devices and CMOS devices are arranged two-dimensionally. 2, a light receiving surface 23a capable of receiving light from outside the case is arranged on the side facing the imaging section 27. As shown in FIG. The imaging unit 23 is mounted on a substrate so as to receive incident light that is reflected by the reflecting member 29 and enters the light receiving surface 23a after passing through the imaging unit 27. As shown in FIG. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, when a passport 100 (display medium) showing character information 102 (display information) is placed within the visual field range (for example, the surface of the display medium on which the display information is displayed) is positioned close to the plate 7 in the opening region γ), the reflected light Lr (see FIG. 9) reflected by the character information 102 and the like is received. In the imaging unit 23, a region where light can be detected on the light receiving surface 23a (a region in which the solid-state imaging device is arranged) is set as a “predetermined light receiving region”. The range of the area is conceptually indicated by D1. That is, the imaging section 23 detects light incident on the range D1 on the light receiving surface 23a. In the example shown in FIG. 4 and the like, the range of the light-receiving area in the imaging unit 23 is, for example, a predetermined vertical range around the optical axis L1 on the light-receiving surface 23a. The direction (width direction: see FIG. 3) is within a predetermined range. In addition, in the example shown in FIG. 4 and the like, the light receiving surface 23a is arranged substantially orthogonal to the front-rear direction (see FIG. 3).

The imaging unit 27 is configured by a known imaging lens and functions as an imaging optical system. The imaging unit 27 determines the range of the visual field that can be imaged by the imaging unit 23, and at the same time, light entering from the outside of the case 3 through the reading port 5 (specifically, the incident light is reflected by the reflecting member 29). The reflected light) is guided to the light receiving area of the imaging unit 23 . The imaging unit 27 functions to form an image of the display information on the light receiving area of the imaging unit 23 when the display information is arranged within the visual field range outside the case 3 . In this configuration, the display information can be imaged while the display information is irradiated with the illumination light emitted from the illumination light source 21 and guided to the outside of the case by the light guide member 50. When the information is arranged within the visual field range (inside the imaging area), the reflected light Lr from this display information is condensed and an image of the display information is formed on the light receiving surface 23a of the imaging section 23. ing. As the imaging unit 27, for example, a wide-angle lens with a short focal length and a wide angle of view can be preferably used.

The microcomputer system includes an amplifier circuit 31, an A/D conversion circuit 34, a memory 35, an address generation circuit 36, a synchronization signal generation circuit 38, a control circuit 40, and the like. It is configured to perform signal processing on image signals such as . Specifically, data of an image captured by the imaging unit 23, such as display information arranged within the visual field range, can be stored in the memory 35, and the control circuit 40 controls such display. Image data such as information is analyzed, and text information is recognized using OCR technology. Further, when the information code arranged within the visual field range is imaged by the imaging section 23 functioning as an imaging means, the control circuit 40 optically reads the information code by analyzing the code image of the information code. configured to function as

Although not shown in FIG. 9 and the like, the information reading device 1 may be provided with an operation unit such as a push button. In this case, when the user operates the operation unit, This signal is input to the control circuit. A known communication interface may also be provided, and in this configuration, information can be transmitted from the information reader 1 to an external device (not shown), and the information reader 1 can receive information from the external device. It becomes possible. Also, a display unit such as a lamp or a display device may be provided.

Next, the characteristic configuration of the information reader 1 will be described in detail.
In this configuration, the reflecting member 29 , the imaging section 27 , the imaging section 23 , the illumination light source 21 , and the light guide member 50 are housed inside the case 3 . The reflecting member 29, the imaging unit 27, the imaging unit 23, the illumination light source 21, the light guide member 50, and the like will be described in more detail below.

As shown in FIGS. 4 to 6 and the like, in this configuration, a plate-like and substantially rectangular (substantially rectangular) plate 7 is arranged as the upper surface portion (upper wall portion) of the case 3 . corresponds to the reading side wall portion 3a. As shown in FIG. 3, substantially rectangular reading openings 5 are formed at the central portion in the longitudinal direction and the central portion in the lateral direction of the plate 7 when the information reading device 1 is viewed from above. When the reading port 5 is viewed from the top as shown in FIG. 3, the reflecting member 29 reflects the light in the opening region γ of the reading port 5 (the region inside the boundary line P3 shown in FIG. 3, see also FIG. 4). It is formed in such a size and position that the entire region (region of the reflective surface) can be accommodated. That is, in the width direction shown in FIG. 3, the one width direction end portion and the other width direction end portion of the reflecting member 29 are arranged between the width direction one end portion 5a and the width direction other end portion 5b of the reading port 5, as shown in FIG. In the front-rear direction, one front-rear direction end portion and the other end portion of the reflecting member 29 are arranged between the front-rear direction one end portion 5 c and the front-rear direction other end portion 5 d of the reading port 5 . Edges of one widthwise end 5a and the other widthwise end 5b of the reading port 5 both extend linearly in the front-rear direction. 5d extends linearly in the width direction (horizontal direction).

As shown in FIGS. 4 to 6, the bottom wall portion 3b of the case 3 is formed in a plate shape as the lower surface portion of the case 3, and when the information reading device 1 is placed on the placement surface F, , the lower surface side of the bottom wall portion 3b is supported by the mounting surface F. As shown in FIG. The bottom wall portion 3b has a configuration in which the thickness direction is the vertical direction, and most of the outer surface (lower surface) is configured as a substantially flat surface. It also functions as the bottom of the case 3 configured in a box shape. Between the reading side wall portion 3a (upper surface portion) and the bottom wall portion (lower surface portion), there is an accommodation space in the case 3 (a space in which the reflecting member 29, the imaging section 27, the imaging section 23, etc. are accommodated). A side wall portion 3c is provided so as to surround the periphery of the . The side wall portion 3c includes a pair of side walls arranged on both sides in the width direction (both side walls extending in the front-rear direction) and a pair of side walls arranged on both sides in the front-rear direction (both side walls extending in the width direction). These four side walls are arranged in a ring-like manner. Reading is performed by partially closing the upper side of the side wall portion 3c (peripheral wall portion) (specifically, by closing the opening 4c formed by the upper end portion of the side wall portion 3c). A plate 7 corresponding to the side wall portion 3a (upper surface portion) is arranged, and a bottom wall portion 3b (lower surface portion) is arranged so as to close the entire lower side of the side wall portion 3c.

The plate 7 is disposed so as to close the opening formed in the upper end of the upper case 4a, constitutes the upper surface of the case 3, and includes a reflecting member 29 and an imaging unit 27 housed inside the case 3. , are arranged so as to cover the upper side of the light guide member 50 . When viewed from above as shown in FIG. 3, the inside of the case can be seen through the exposed portion of the plate 7 (the portion of the opening region γ (FIG. 4) which is the region inside the boundary line P3 conceptually shown in FIG. 3). The reflecting member 29, the imaging section 27, and the light guiding member 50 are visible. The plate 7 is configured as, for example, a transparent and flat plate member, and is arranged substantially horizontally so that the direction orthogonal to the plate surface (the upper surface 7a and the lower surface 7b) is the vertical direction. The plate 7 corresponds to an example of a transparent member, and functions to block the reading port 5 configured as the inner peripheral portion of the cover layer 8 . In other words, the reading port 5 is configured to allow light to enter and exit, but is configured not to allow entry of water, dust, etc. due to the blockage of the plate 7 .

The reflecting member 29 is configured as a mirror, for example, is accommodated inside the case 3 , and functions to reflect light entering through the reading port 5 from the outside of the case 3 . The reflecting member 29 is arranged so that the reflecting surface 29a (mirror surface) faces obliquely upward and toward one side in the front-rear direction (the imaging unit 27 side with respect to the reflecting surface 29a). It is configured to reflect the light entering through the to one side in the front-rear direction. More specifically, the reflecting surface 29a is flat and arranged so as to be perpendicular to a virtual plane parallel to the vertical direction and the front-rear direction. The angle formed is 45°, and they are arranged so as to horizontally reflect the light entering in parallel with the vertical direction.

Further, the upper end portion 29c of the reflecting surface 29a of the reflecting member 29 (which is a mirror surface area capable of reflecting light from above and is exposed to the upper side) is arranged at a position closer to the plate 7 in the vertical direction. A lower end portion 29b of the surface 29a is arranged near the bottom wall portion 3b in the vertical direction. Further, the reflecting surface 29a of the reflecting member 29 is configured such that the width of the lower end portion 29b is the narrowest and the width of the upper end portion 29c is the widest, so that the width increases upward.

The imaging unit 27 is composed of an imaging lens that functions as a wide-angle lens as described above, and is arranged at a position distant from the plate 7 as shown in FIGS. The imaging unit 27 has a function of condensing light that has entered from the outside of the case 3 through the reading port 5 and has been reflected by the reflecting member 29 while guiding it to the light receiving surface 23 a (light receiving area) of the imaging unit 23 . , the range of field of view that can be imaged by the imaging unit 23 inside and outside the case 3 is determined. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, as a visual field range, a first visual field range AR1 formed between the imaging unit 27 and the reflecting member 29, and a reflected light that continues to the first visual field range AR1 A second visual field range AR2 configured upward from the member 29 is defined. That is, the light from the visual field range is condensed toward the light receiving area of the imaging unit 23 to form an image so that the first visual field range AR1 and the second visual field range AR2 are used as imaging areas. Note that the first visual field range AR1 is the visual field range in which light is condensed by the imaging unit 27 and directly captured by the imaging unit 23, and the second visual field range AR2 is the range in which the image reflected on the reflecting member 29 is captured by the imaging unit 23. is the field of view range imaged in . The imaging unit 27 configured in this manner forms an image of the display information on the light receiving area of the imaging unit 23 when the display information is arranged within the second visual field range AR2 set outside the case 3. It functions to let

A first visual field range AR1 shown in FIG. 4 is a range captured by the imaging unit 23 in the space between the imaging unit 27 and the reflecting member 29, and gradually widens as it approaches the reflecting surface 29a of the reflecting member 29. is set to The optical axis L1, which is the center of the first visual field range AR1, is horizontal (specifically, the front-rear direction), and forms an angle of 45° with the reflecting surface 29a. As shown in FIG. 4, when the information reader 1 is cut with a plane passing through the optical axis L1 and parallel to the vertical direction as a cutting plane, the first visual field range AR1 is the widest in the vertical direction on the cutting plane. ing. 4 (the cut plane passing through the optical axis L1 and parallel to the vertical direction), the lower boundary of the first visual field range AR1 is located at a lower position (lower position) as it approaches the reflecting surface 29a of the reflecting member 29 ), and the upper limit boundary of the first visual field range AR1 is configured to be at a higher position (upper position) as the reflecting surface 29a of the reflecting member 29 is approached. Then, in the cut plane shown in FIG. 4 (the cut plane at the position AA shown in FIG. 3, which is the cut plane obtained by cutting the information reading device 1 at the center position in the left-right direction in the direction orthogonal to the left-right direction), the first visual field The position where the lower limit boundary of the range AR1 reaches the reflecting surface 29a of the reflecting member 29 (the position where the boundary and the reflecting surface 29a intersect) is the lower end position of the first visual field range AR1. The position where the upper limit boundary of the first visual field range AR1 reaches the reflecting surface 29a of the reflecting member 29 (the position where the boundary and the reflecting surface 29a intersect) is the upper end position of the first visual field range AR1.

As shown in FIG. 4, in this configuration, the reflection area of the reflection member 29 (the area where the reflection surface 29a is exposed) is located at least at the lower end of the first visual field range AR1, and is located from the lower end to the upper end of the first visual field range AR1. continues until In other words, the reflective member 29 has the reflective surface 29a arranged so as to cover the entire region in the vertical direction of the first visual field range AR1 on the cross section as shown in FIG. For example, in the cut plane shown in FIG. 4, the upper end portion 29c of the reflective area (the area of the reflective surface 29a) is at the same position as the upper end position of the first visual field range AR1 or higher than the upper end position, and the reflective area ( The lower end portion 29b of the reflecting surface 29a) is at the same position as or lower than the lower end position of the first visual field range AR1. More specifically, the reflecting surface 29 a is arranged so as to be reflected in the entire light receiving area of the imaging section 23 . That is, the boundaries of the first visual field range AR1 on the side of the reflecting member 29 are all located on the reflecting surface 29a, and the imaging unit 23 has a portion adjacent to the periphery of the reflecting surface 29a (a portion other than the reflecting surface 29a). is not imaged, and the entire second visual field range AR2 can be imaged.

The second visual field range AR2 is a visual field range that is folded back by the reflecting member 29 so as to follow the first visual field range AR1 described above. An image is taken by the unit 23 . Conversely, the outside of the second visual field range AR2 is not imaged by the imaging unit 23 except for the first visual field range AR1.

In this configuration, the reflecting surface 29a is inclined at an angle of, for example, 45 degrees with respect to the horizontal direction. The imaging unit 27 is arranged on one side in the front-rear direction with respect to the reflecting member 29, and the optical axis L1 of the first visual field range AR1 extends in the front-rear direction. Therefore, the optical axis L2, which is the center of the second visual field range AR2, extends in the vertical direction. A second visual field range AR2 obtained by folding back the first visual field range AR1 by the reflecting member 29 is set so that the range becomes wider toward the upper side, and a cross section (optical axes L1, L2) as shown in FIG. ), the second visual field range AR2 widens in the front-rear direction as it goes upward.

Specifically, the second visual field range AR2 is set so that the range increases in the front-rear direction as it moves upward from the optical axis L2. is set so that the second visual field range AR2 is widened. Note that the shape of the boundary of the second visual field range AR2 on the virtual plane horizontally cutting the second visual field range AR2 outside the case may be, for example, a circle, or may be a rectangular shape such as a rectangle or a square. good.

The imaging unit 27 is arranged at a position outside the second visual field range AR2. Specifically, the imaging unit 27 is arranged at a position deviated from the front-rear direction one side of the boundary B1 on the front-rear direction one side of the second visual field range AR2. Since part of the imaging unit 27 is thus configured not to enter the second visual field range AR2, part of the imaging unit 27 is reflected in the reflecting member 29 and is imaged by the imaging unit 23. Therefore, the reduction of the imaging area due to such reflection is suppressed. Further, as shown in FIG. 4, the lens portion of the imaging section 27 is arranged above the lower end portion 29b of the area (reflection area) of the reflecting surface 29a of the reflecting member 29, and below the upper end portion 29c. are placed. Furthermore, one end portion (the end portion on the reflecting member 29 side) of the image forming portion 27 in the front-rear direction is arranged between the other end portion 5d in the front-rear direction of the reading port 5 and the optical axis L2 in the front-rear direction. By arranging in this way, it is possible to make use of the area below the reading port 5 while preventing the reflection of the imaging unit 27 .

Further, as shown in FIG. 4, in a cross-section obtained by taking a plane passing through the optical axis L1 that is the center of the first visual field range AR1 and the optical axis L1 that is the center of the second visual field range AR2, the second visual field range AR2 Both boundaries B1 and B2 pass through positions near the inner periphery of the reading port 5 (for example, positions of the ends 5d and 5c or positions close to the ends 5d and 5c). In the example of FIG. 4, both the boundary B1 on one side in the front-rear direction and the boundary B2 on the other side in the front-rear direction of the second visual field range AR2 are closer to each other than the inner periphery of the reading port 5 (ends 5d and 5c). These boundaries B1 and B2 may both pass through the inner peripheral portions (ends 5d and 5c), although they are designed to pass through the inner side slightly.

Next, the illumination light source 21 will be described. As shown in FIGS. 3, 4, 6, and 8, the illumination light source 21 is arranged at a position outside the opening area γ (the area inside the boundary line P3 shown in FIG. 3) in the plane direction perpendicular to the vertical direction. It is Note that the boundary line P3 conceptually indicates the boundary of the opening region γ in the planar direction, and actually the inner edge of the reading port 5 serves as the boundary of the opening region γ. The illumination light sources 21 include first light sources 21a and 21b arranged near one end in the longitudinal direction of the case 3 (near one end in the width direction), and first light sources 21a and 21b arranged near the other end in the longitudinal direction of the case 3 (near the other end in the width direction). It has two light sources 21c and 21d. These first light sources 21a, 21b and second light sources 21c, 21d are both arranged below the coating layer 8 formed on the plate surface of the plate 7, and as shown in FIGS. Both of 21a, 21b and second light sources 21c, 21d are mounted on the lower surface side of the substrate arranged below the coating layer 8. As shown in FIG.

As shown in FIGS. 4, 6, and 8, the first light sources 21a, 21b and the second light sources 21c, 21d are positioned below the plate 7 in the vertical direction and above the light guide member 50, which will be described later. As shown in FIG. 3, it is arranged at a position spaced outward from the opening region γ (the inner region of the boundary line P3) in the plane direction. Both of the first light sources 21a and 21b and the second light sources 21c and 21d emit illumination light in the lateral direction (horizontal direction) orthogonal to the vertical direction and in the oblique lateral direction inclined with respect to the lateral direction. The configuration is such that illumination light is irradiated to the side closer to the opening region γ.

In addition, at a position between the illumination light source 21 and the reading port 5 in the vertical direction, at least on the irradiation side of the illumination light from the illumination light source 21, from the position of the illumination light source 21 along the plane direction, the reading port 5 side (second field of view) A light shielding portion is arranged so as to extend to the range AR2 side). These light shielding portions block the illumination light from each illumination light source 21 directed obliquely upward. As a result, most of the light from each illumination light source 21 is emitted horizontally and obliquely downward. With this configuration, the light from each illumination light source 21 is less likely to enter the user's eyes directly, and the light from each illumination light source 21 can be efficiently applied to the light guide member 50 described later.

A light guide member 50 is arranged at the irradiation destination of the illumination light from these illumination light sources 21 . As illustrated in FIG. 10, the light guide member 50 has an opening region γ (the inner region of the boundary line P3 shown in FIG. 10) of the reading port 5 where the illuminance of the illumination light passing through the central portion P1 of the visual field range is lower than that of the illumination light. , the illuminating light is guided so that the illuminance of the illuminating light passing through a predetermined high illuminance region β defined near the peripheral portion within the visual field range becomes greater. 4 and 10, the area surrounded by the inner edge of the reading port 5 on the top surface of the plate 7 (the area exposed from the reading port 5 on the top surface of the plate 7) corresponds to the opening region γ. there is In the example of FIG. 10, the annular area along the periphery of the viewing range in the aperture area γ is the high illumination area β, which is conceptually indicated by hatching.

The light guide member 50 includes a plurality of reflecting portions 51 , 52 , 53 and 54 that reflect illumination light from the illumination light source 21 . Each of these reflecting portions 51 , 52 , 53 , and 54 has a surface on the second visual field range AR<b>2 side configured as a reflecting surface for reflecting the illumination light from the illumination light source 21 . Each reflecting surface of each of the reflecting portions 51, 52, 53, and 54 is positioned at the center P1 of the viewing range in the opening region γ of the reading port 5 (that is, the plate 7 and the optical axis L2). The reflecting portions 51, 52, 53, and 54 are made of, for example, a light-shielding member. ) has a predetermined color (for example, a bright color such as white), and both are configured to diffusely reflect light incident on the outer surface on the second visual field range AR2 side. The entire light guide member 50 is arranged along the second visual field range AR2 outside the visual field range, and has a mortar-shaped structure in which the size of the hole (opening area) becomes narrower toward the lower position. ing. In this manner, the light guide member 50 is arranged in a ring outside the second visual field range AR2 so as to surround the second visual field range AR2, and the upper end 50a is arranged close to the inner edge of the reading port 5. It is The upper end portion 50a of the light guide member 50 has an annular end portion structure surrounding the second visual field range AR2. It is located in the vicinity, and any position of the upper end portion 50a is closer to the peripheral portion than to the central portion of the opening region γ. Further, at any position of the upper end portion 50a, the peripheral portion (near the boundary line P2) is closer than the central portion P1 of the visual field range α in the opening region γ.

In FIG. 3, the area of one first reflecting portion 54 is conceptually indicated by a two-dot chain line J11, and the area of the other first reflecting portion 53 is conceptually indicated by a two-dot chain line J12. In addition, the region of one second reflecting portion 51 is indicated by a two-dot chain line J21, and the region of the other second reflecting portion 52 is indicated by a two-dot chain line J22. Further, in FIG. 10, the irradiation area of the illumination light from the first light source 21a is conceptually indicated by a thick dashed line, and the irradiation area of the illumination light from the first light source 21b is conceptually indicated by a thick solid line. , the irradiation area of the illumination light from the second light source 21c is conceptually indicated by a thick two-dot chain line, and the irradiation area of the illumination light from the second light source 21d is conceptually indicated by a thick one-dot chain line. .

In this way, the illumination light emitted from the first light sources 21a and 21b and the second light sources 21c and 21d is reflected on the wall surfaces of the light guide member 50 (the first reflecting portions 53 and 54 and the second reflecting portions 53 and 54 and the second reflecting portions) which are configured in the shape of a mortar. 51 and 52 on the second visual field range AR2 side), the first reflecting portions 53 and 54 and the second reflecting portions 51 and 52 are bright as a whole when viewed from above as shown in FIG. it will shine. Further, as shown in FIGS. 4, 5, and 7, the first reflecting portions 53 and 54 and the second reflecting portions 51 and 52 are positioned downward in the planar direction on the center (optical axis L2) side of the visual field range AR2. , and the side farther from the optical axis L2 is the upper position. Therefore, in the opening area γ of the reading port 5 (the area exposed from the reading port 5 on the upper surface of the plate 7), in the viewing range α within this region γ (the region surrounded by the boundary line P2 in FIG. Reflected light from the vicinity of the upper end portion 50a of the light guide member 50 (near the upper end portions of the first reflecting portions 53, 54 and the second reflecting portions 51, 52) near the vicinity (near the boundary line P2) near line P2). Therefore, in the visual field range α (the area surrounded by the boundary line P2 in FIG. 10) in the opening region γ, the illuminance near the periphery of the visual field range α (near the boundary line P2) is around the center P1 of the visual field range α. relatively high compared to the illuminance of On the other hand, since the central portion P1 of the visual field range α in the opening region γ is farther from the first reflecting portions 53 and 54 and the second reflecting portions 51 and 52 than the vicinity of the peripheral portion (near the boundary line P2), The illumination light reflected by the first reflecting portions 53 and 54 and the second reflecting portions 51 and 52 is less likely to reach the central portion P1 in the opening region γ than the peripheral portion of the viewing range α. Therefore, in the visual field range α (the area surrounded by the boundary line P2 in FIG. 10) in the opening region γ, the illuminance near the central portion P1 is relatively low compared to the illuminance near the peripheral portion (near the boundary line P2). Become. In FIG. 10, a hatched area conceptually shows a high illumination area β in which the illumination in the opening area γ is higher than that in the vicinity of the center P1 of the visual field range α. Since the high illumination area β is formed in the opening area γ in this way, when an object is arranged so as to be in close contact with the upper surface of the plate 7 in the opening area γ, the illumination at the position of the high illumination area β is It is relatively large, the illuminance near the center P1 is relatively small, and the high illuminance region β becomes relatively brighter than near the center P1.

Next, the detailed configuration of the attachment 60 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 11 to 14. FIG.
As shown in FIGS. 11 to 14, the attachment 60 is made of a resin material such as ABS resin. and four supporting members 91 to 94 that support the mounting portion 80 with respect to the base portion 70 are integrally provided.

The base portion 70 is a portion to be placed on the placement surface F, and is in contact with a pair of side walls arranged on both sides in the front-rear direction of the side wall portion 3c of the case 3 so as to face each other. 72. The side walls 71 and 72 are formed such that the height from the mounting surface F is substantially equal to the height of the reading port 5 . Further, the side walls 71 and 72 are formed so as to fit into the corners of the side wall portion 3c at the curved portions formed at the ends thereof.

The mounting portion 80 includes a pair of beam portions 81 and 82 and a connecting portion 83 that connects one end side 81 a of the beam portion 81 and one end side 82 a of the beam portion 82 . The beam portion 81 and the beam portion 82 are separated so that the facing distance (see W2 in FIG. 12) between the one end side 81a and the one end side 82a is slightly larger than the width of the passport 100 (see W1 in FIG. 2). In this state, it is connected to the side wall 71 so as to be supported from below by the support members 91 and 92 together with the connecting portion 83 . Further, the beam portion 81 and the beam portion 82 are connected to the side wall 72 so as to be supported from below by support members 93 and 94 at the other end side 81b and the other end side 82b.

The other end 81b of the beam portion 81 is provided with a positioning portion 81c that functions as positioning means for the passport 100 placed thereon. The positioning portion 81c includes a contact surface 81d with which the outer edge of the passport 100 on the character information 102 side (hereinafter also referred to as one edge 101a) contacts, and an outer edge on the beam portion 81 side (hereinafter also referred to as the side edge 101b). A support surface 81e that supports the display surface 101 from below is formed. A positioning portion 82c is provided on the other end 82b of the beam portion 82 and functions as positioning means for the passport 100 placed thereon. The positioning portion 82c has a contact surface 82d with which one edge 101a of the passport 100 contacts, and a support surface 82e that supports the display surface 101 near the outer edge (hereinafter also referred to as the side edge 101c) on the side of the beam portion 82 from below. is formed.

The contact surface 81 d and the contact surface 82 d are formed so that the character information 102 of the passport 100 contacting at one edge 101 a faces the center of the reading port 5 of the information reading device 1 . 14, the support surface 81e and the support surface 82e are formed so that the height from the mounting surface F is equal to that of the connecting portion 83. As shown in FIG.

The connecting portion 83 is arranged so as to connect one end side 81a of the beam portion 81 and one end side 82a of the beam portion 82 at a position that does not enter the imaging area (second visual field range AR2) of the information reading device 1. there is

The heights of the supporting members 91 to 94 are such that the character information 102 of the passport 100 placed on the placing portion 80 can be imaged within the imaging area (second visual field range AR2) of the information reader 1. is set to The heights of the supporting members 91 to 94 are set so that the distance between the passport 100 placed on the placing section 80 and the reading port 5 is approximately 30 mm.

The attachment 60 configured in this manner is attached to the information reader 1 by assembling from above so that the curved portions of the side walls 71 and 72 of the base 70 are engaged with the corners of the side wall portion 3c of the case 3. (See FIG. 1). At this time, the base portion 70 does not come into contact with the center side of the pair of side walls arranged on both sides in the width direction of the side wall portions 3c of the case 3, so that the cables and speaker ports provided on the center side of the side walls on both sides in the width direction Such an opening (not shown) or the like is not covered with the base 70 either.

Further, since the side walls 71 and 72 of the base 70 are formed so that the height from the mounting surface F is substantially equal to the height of the reading port 5, information codes, etc. can be read without using the mounting portion 80. Even when the display medium on which is displayed is held over the reading port 5 , the display medium can be held so as to contact the reading port 5 using the upper end surface of the side wall 71 or the upper end surface of the side wall 72 . That is, the side walls 71 and 72 can function as guides when holding the display medium.

Next, the case where the information reader 1 to which the attachment 60 is attached as described above reads the character information 102 of the passport 100 will be described with reference to FIGS. 15 and 16. FIG.
As shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, one edge 101a of the passport 100 contacts the contact surface 81d of the beam 81 and the contact surface 82d of the beam 82, and the display surface 101 of the passport 100 contacts the support surface of the beam 81. The passport 100 is placed on the placing portion 80 so as to be supported from below by the supporting surface 82e of the beam portion 82 and the connecting portion 83 .

As a result, the character information 102 of the passport 100 placed on the placing portion 80 is positioned within the imaging area of the information reading device 1 and faces the center of the reading port 5 . That is, the center of the character information 102 substantially coincides with the optical axis L2 of the second visual field range AR2. As a result, an image of the character information 102 is formed on the light receiving surface 23a of the imaging unit 23, and since the imaged display information is the character information 102, the character information 102 is recognized using the OCR technique.

As described above, in the attachment 60 according to the present embodiment, the placement portion 80 for placing the passport 100 so that the character information 102 can be imaged with respect to the reading port 5 formed on the upper surface of the information reading device 1 is provided. is provided. As a result, the passport 100 placed on the placement section 80 and the reading port 5 can be separated from the reading port 5 according to the predetermined distance at which the character information 102 can be imaged. The passport 100 can be easily placed in a state in which the character information 102 can be imaged.

Furthermore, positioning portions 81 c and 82 c for positioning the passport 100 placed on the placing portion 80 with respect to the reading port 5 are formed on the placing portion 80 . Accordingly, by placing the passport 100 on the placing portion 80 so as to be positioned by the positioning portions 81c and 82c, the relative position of the character information 102 with respect to the reading port 5 is less likely to vary. Not only can the passport 100 be placed, but the reading performance of the character information 102 of the passport 100 can be improved.

In particular, the contact surface 81d of the positioning portion 81c and the contact surface 82d of the positioning portion 82c are formed so that the character information 102 of the positioned passport 100 faces the center of the reading port 5, so that the character information 102 can be read. Therefore, the reading performance of the character information 102 of the passport 100 can be further improved.

When a display medium such as an information code to be read while the display information is in contact with the reading port 5 is to be read, the attachment 60 can be removed from the information reading apparatus 1 . As a result, both the display medium for reading the display information (for example, information code) in contact with the reading port 5 and the passport 100 for reading the character information 102 with the predetermined distance from the reading port 5 are read. The target information reading device 1 can be easily realized.

If it is necessary to capture not only the character information 102 but also a facial photograph or the like, the contact surface 81d of the positioning portion 81c and the contact surface 82d of the positioning portion 82c can be used to capture the character information 102 and the facial photograph of the positioned passport 100. It is formed so as to be located within the imaging area (second visual field range AR2) of the information reader 1 so as to be imageable. As a result, the character information 102 of the positioned passport 100, a photograph of the face, etc. can be preferably imaged.

[Second embodiment]
Next, an attachment according to a second embodiment of the invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 17 to 24. FIG.
The attachment 60a according to the second embodiment is different from the attachment according to the first embodiment in that the passport 100 can be held therebetween. Therefore, the same reference numerals are given to substantially the same components as those of the attachment of the first embodiment, and the description thereof will be omitted.

As shown in FIG. 17, an attachment 60a according to the present embodiment is an information reading device attachment that functions as a mounting table for mounting a passport 100 when capturing an image of character information 102, similar to the attachment 60 described above. , and is formed detachably from the information reading device 1 .

As shown in FIGS. 18 to 22, an attachment 60a according to the present embodiment is configured to employ a mounting portion 80a instead of the mounting portion 80 in the attachment 60 described above. The mounting portion 80a includes a pair of beam portions 84 and 85, and the side wall 71 is mounted so that one end side 84a of the beam portion 84 and one end side 85a of the beam portion 85 are supported by supporting members 91 and 92 from below. , and the other end side 84b of the beam portion 84 and the other end side 85b of the beam portion 85 are connected to the side wall 72 so as to be supported by support members 93 and 94 from below.

On one end side 84a of the beam portion 84, a lower clamping surface 84c for supporting the display surface 101 near the side edge 101b of the placed passport 100 from below, and a guide connecting to the outside of the lower clamping surface 84c. A surface 84d is formed. The guide surface 84d is a surface for guiding the passport 100 to the lower clamping surface 84c, and as shown in FIG. 22, is formed to be smoothly inclined toward the inner lower clamping surface 84c. . On the other end side 84b of the beam portion 84, there is an upper clamping surface 84e that contacts the vicinity of the side edge 101b of the placed passport 100 from above, and a contact surface 84f that constitutes positioning means together with the upper clamping surface 84e. is formed.

As shown in FIG. 21, the upper clamping surface 84e extends so that the end on the lower clamping surface 84c side covers the end of the lower clamping surface 84c from above. The lower clamping surface 84c and the upper clamping surface 84e constitute one clamping portion 86a for clamping the side edge 101b of the passport 100. It is set to be slightly larger than the thickness.

In addition, on one end side 85a of the beam portion 85, a lower clamping surface 85c that supports the display surface 101 near the side edge 101c of the placed passport 100 from below, and an outer side of the lower clamping surface 85c. A continuous guide surface 85d is formed. The guide surface 85d is a surface for guiding the passport 100 to the lower clamping surface 85c, and is formed so as to be smoothly inclined toward the inner lower clamping surface 85c. On the other end side 85b of the beam portion 85, there is an upper clamping surface 85e that contacts the vicinity of the side edge 101c of the placed passport 100 from above, and a contact surface 85f that constitutes positioning means together with the upper clamping surface 85e. is formed.

The upper clamping surface 85e extends so that the end on the lower clamping surface 85c side covers the end of the lower clamping surface 85c from above. The lower holding surface 85c and the upper holding surface 85e are configured as the other holding portion 86b for holding the side edge 101c of the passport 100, and the gap between them is slightly larger than the thickness of the passport 100 when placed. is set to be

The contact surface 84f of the beam portion 84 and the contact surface 85f of the beam portion 85 are formed so that the character information 102 of the passport 100, which contacts at one edge 101a, faces the center of the reading port 5 of the information reader 1. there is

The height of each of the support members 91 to 94 is such that the character information 102 of the passport 100 placed so as to be sandwiched by the one sandwiching portion 86a and the other sandwiching portion 86b is positioned in the imaging area of the information reading device 1 (second It is set so as to be located within the visual field range AR2) so that it can be imaged.

The attachment 60a configured in this manner is attached to the information reader 1 by assembling from above so that the curved portions of the side walls 71 and 72 of the base 70 are engaged with the corners of the side wall portion 3c of the case 3. (See FIG. 17). A case where the information reading device 1 to which the attachment 60a is attached in this manner reads the character information 102 of the passport 100 will be described with reference to FIGS. 23 and 24. FIG.

First, the passport 100 is brought into contact with the lower holding surface 84c and the lower holding surface 85c from above at the lower surface near the side edges 101b and 101c. At this time, the passport 100 is guided onto the lower holding surfaces 84c and 85c by the guide surfaces 84d and 85d. In this state, passport 100 is pushed until one edge 101a contacts contact surface 84f of beam 84 and contact surface 85f of beam 85. As shown in FIG. 23 and 24, the side edge 101b of the passport 100 is held by one holding portion 86a and the side edge 101c is held by the other holding portion 86b. It is placed so as to be sandwiched.

As a result, the character information 102 of the passport 100 placed on the placing portion 80 a is positioned within the imaging area of the information reading device 1 and faces the center of the reading port 5 . That is, the center of the character information 102 substantially coincides with the optical axis L2 of the second visual field range AR2. As a result, an image of the character information 102 is formed on the light receiving surface 23a of the imaging unit 23, and since the imaged display information is the character information 102, the character information 102 is recognized using the OCR technique.

As described above, in the attachment 60 according to the present embodiment, the holding portion 80a is formed with one holding portion 86a and the other holding portion 86b for holding the side edges 101b and 101c of the passport 100 from above and below. Therefore, the passport 100 can be stably placed on the placing portion 80a by placing the passport 100 on the placing portion 80a while being held by the holding portions 86a and 86b.

In particular, the beam portions 84 and 85 of the mounting portion 80a are provided with guide surfaces 84d and guide surfaces 84d for guiding the passport 100 to the lower holding surface 84c of one holding portion 86a and the lower holding surface 85c of the other holding portion 86b. Since the guide surface 85d is formed, the passport 100 can be easily held between the holding portions 86a and 86b.

If it is necessary to capture not only the character information 102 but also a photograph of the face and the like, the contact surface 84f and the contact surface 85f are used as the image pickup area ( It is formed so as to be located within the second visual field range AR2) so as to be imageable. As a result, the character information 102 of the positioned passport 100, a photograph of the face, etc. can be preferably imaged.

[Third Embodiment]
Next, an attachment according to a third embodiment of the invention will be described with reference to FIG.
The attachment 60b according to the third embodiment is different from the attachment according to the first embodiment in that a reflecting member 95 is provided for suppressing variations in the amount of light and insufficient amount of light near the reading port 5. FIG. Therefore, the same reference numerals are given to substantially the same components as those of the attachment of the first embodiment, and the description thereof will be omitted.

As shown in FIG. 25, an attachment 60b according to this embodiment is configured such that a reflecting member 95 is added to the attachment 60 described above. The reflecting member 95 is configured as a mirror, for example, and is arranged on the inner side surfaces of the supporting members 91 to 94 so as to reflect incident light from the surroundings toward the reading port 5 .

As a result, even when the reading port 5 is covered by the passport 100 placed above, the surrounding light is reflected toward the reading port 5 by the reflecting member 95, so that the amount of light in the vicinity of the reading port 5 is reduced. Variation and lack of light intensity are easily suppressed. Therefore, it is possible to suppress deterioration in reading performance due to the passport 100 covering the reading port 5 above.

Note that the reflecting member 95 is not limited to being provided on the inner side surfaces of the support members 91 to 94. For example, the reflecting member 95 may be provided on the inner side surface of the mounting portion 80, or may be mounted on the support members 91 to 94. It may be provided on both inner surfaces of the portion 80 .

Further, even if the reflecting member 95 is provided on at least a part of the inner surface of the mounting portion 80a and each of the supporting members 91 to 94 for the attachment 60a described above, the above effect can be obtained.

[Fourth Embodiment]
Next, an information reader according to a fourth embodiment of the invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 26 and 27. FIG.
The information reading apparatus according to the fourth embodiment differs from the information reading apparatus according to the first embodiment in that predetermined processing is performed when it is detected that the attachment has been assembled. Therefore, the same reference numerals are assigned to substantially the same components as those of the information reading apparatus of the first embodiment, and the description thereof will be omitted.

The information reader 1 according to the present embodiment has a first mode in which an algorithm for optically reading an information code such as a bar code or a QR code is operated by a control circuit 40 functioning as a control means, and a first mode for reading the information code. In addition to reading, it is configured to switch between a second mode in which an algorithm for recognizing character information and the like using OCR technology operates, depending on whether or not an attachment is attached. Here, the processing for recognizing character information and the like using OCR technology corresponds to the "predetermined processing" performed by the control circuit 40 upon detection of attachment of the attachment, and is in the first mode. This processing cannot be performed by the information reading device 1 .

In particular, in this embodiment, specific patterns are prepared for switching between the above-described first mode and second mode. When the specific pattern can be imaged by the imaging unit 23, the mode is switched to the second mode, and when the specific pattern cannot be imaged by the imaging unit 23, the mode is switched to the first mode.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, the above specific pattern is displayed on the surface of the attachment that is imaged by the imaging section 23 in the state of being attached to the information reading device 1 among the surfaces of the attachment. Specifically, for example, as illustrated in FIG. 26 , the lower surface of the connecting portion 83 of the mounting portion 80 of the attachment 60 is the opposite surface facing the reading port 5 in the state assembled to the information reading device 1 . A specific pattern 87 is displayed outside the inner edge 83b of the connecting portion 83 by pasting on the lower surface thereof. This specific pattern 87 is formed by alternately arranging a white pattern and a black pattern along a certain direction.

Therefore, when the imaging unit 23 is operated with the attachment 60 shown in FIG. are imaged so as to be positioned at a specific position (see region T1 in FIG. 7). 27 and FIGS. 29 and 30, which will be described later, the lower surface of the connecting portion 83 is simply illustrated, and illustration of the attachment 60 other than the connecting portion 83 is omitted for convenience.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, the control circuit 40 performs image analysis on the captured image captured by the imaging unit 23, and when it is determined that a specific pattern 87 is captured as shown in FIG. is detected, and switching to the second mode is performed. On the other hand, if the specific pattern 87 is not included in the captured image captured by the imaging unit 23, it is determined that the attachment 60 is not assembled, and the first mode is maintained without being switched to the second mode. and the OCR function is disabled.

As described above, in the information reading device 1 according to the present embodiment, when it is detected that an attachment has been assembled, the control circuit 40 switches to the second mode and recognizes character information and the like using OCR technology. A process (predetermined process) is performed. As a result, unless the attachment is attached to the information reader 1, the predetermined processing is not performed, and the functions of the information reader 1 can be restricted depending on whether or not the attachment is attached.

In particular, the mounting of the attachment 60 is detected by capturing an image of the specific pattern 87 displayed on the attachment 60 by the imaging unit 23 . As a result, the mounting of the attachment 60 is detected using the imaging unit 23 necessary for capturing an image of a display medium such as a passport or an information code. It is possible to reduce the number of parts of the reading device 1 and reduce the manufacturing cost.

The specific pattern 87 is not limited to being displayed on the attachment 60, and can be displayed on other attachments such as the attachment 60a and the attachment 60b described above. Even in this way, when the attachment is attached to the information reading device 1, the particular pattern 87 displayed on the attachment is imaged by the imaging unit 23, so that attachment of the attachment can be detected. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 28, a specific pattern 87 is displayed on the lower surface of the beam portion 84 of the mounting portion 80 of the attachment 60a. can do.

Note that the characteristic configuration of this embodiment, in which predetermined processing is performed when it is detected that an attachment has been attached, can also be applied to other embodiments.

[Fifth embodiment]
Next, an information reader according to a fifth embodiment of the invention will be described with reference to FIG.
The information reading apparatus according to the fifth embodiment is different from the information reading apparatus according to the fourth embodiment in that a plurality of types of predetermined processing to be performed by detecting the mounting of the attachment is prepared according to the type of the specific pattern. different from Therefore, the same reference numerals are assigned to substantially the same components as those of the information reading apparatus of the fourth embodiment, and description thereof will be omitted.

In this embodiment, three types of specific patterns 87, 87a, and 87b are prepared as a plurality of types of specific patterns, as illustrated in FIG. Here, the specific pattern 87a is formed such that a black ring, a white ring, and a black ring are concentrically arranged outside a white central circle. The specific pattern 87b is formed such that a white rectangular ring and a black rectangular ring are concentrically arranged outside the black square.

Then, the control circuit detects the type of specific pattern detected in a specific region T2 (see FIG. 29) corresponding to at least a part of the lower surface of the connecting portion 83 in the captured image T captured by the imaging portion 23. 40 operates a predetermined algorithm. Specifically, in this embodiment, when a specific pattern 87 is detected, an algorithm for recognizing character information or the like using OCR technology operates. Further, when a specific pattern 87a is detected, an algorithm for optically reading a one-dimensional code such as a bar code operates, and when a specific pattern 87b is detected, a two-dimensional code such as a QR code is optically read. algorithm to read

Therefore, in the present embodiment, for example, all of the specific patterns 87, 87a, and 87b are captured by the imaging unit 23 and detected within the specific region T2, so that the information reader 1 can read the one-dimensional code. Also, the two-dimensional code reading function and the OCR function can be implemented. On the other hand, for example, when the specific patterns 87a and 87b are imaged by the imaging unit 23 and detected within the specific region T2, and the specific pattern 87 is not detected, the information reading device 1 does not detect the one-dimensional pattern. The ability to read codes and two-dimensional codes is enabled, while the OCR function is disabled.

As described above, in the information reading device 1 according to the present embodiment, the predetermined processing performed by detecting the mounting of the attachment differs for each type of specific pattern captured by the imaging unit 23. Therefore, it is possible to prepare a plurality of types of predetermined processing that can be performed.

In particular, since the predetermined processing is performed on one or more specific patterns included in the specific region T2 of the captured image T captured by the imaging unit 23, the specific pattern of the captured image T differs from the specific region T2. A specific pattern included in the area is not subjected to a corresponding predetermined process. This makes it possible to prevent unnecessary predetermined processing from being performed in response to an unintended specific pattern.

As a modification of the fifth embodiment, the specific pattern displayed on the attachment detectably within the specific region T2 is an information code such as a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code generated according to a predetermined code type. may be In this case, the predetermined processing performed by the control circuit 40 can be decoding processing of the information code of the same code type as the information code imaged as the specific pattern by the imaging unit 23 .

For example, as illustrated in FIG. 30, when a specific pattern 87c consisting of a barcode and a specific pattern 87d consisting of a QR code are detected within a specific region T2, the specific region of the captured image T The ability to read barcodes and QR codes can be implemented for areas different from T2.

As a result, it is only necessary to display the information code of the code type to be read on the attachment so that it can be imaged by the imaging unit 23, so that a specific pattern can be easily displayed on the attachment.

It should be noted that the characteristic configuration of this embodiment, in which a plurality of types of predetermined processes are prepared according to the type of a specific pattern, which is performed by detecting attachment assembly, can also be applied to other embodiments.

[Sixth embodiment]
Next, an information reader according to a sixth embodiment of the invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 31 to 33. FIG.
The information reader according to the sixth embodiment differs from the information reader according to the fourth embodiment in that a specific pattern is formed so as to have a forgery prevention function. Therefore, the same reference numerals are assigned to substantially the same components as those of the information reading apparatus of the fourth embodiment, and description thereof will be omitted.

As a method of using the information reading apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment, even among those who use the same information reading apparatus 1, only limited members or the like are permitted to perform predetermined processing, and other persons are permitted to perform the predetermined processing. can be disallowed. However, in the configuration in which execution of a predetermined process is permitted by capturing an image of a specific pattern with the image capturing unit 23 as described above, capturing an image of a specific forged pattern with the image capturing unit 23 allows the other There is a possibility that the predetermined processing will be performed even by a person who has the right to do so.

Therefore, in this embodiment, in order to prevent unauthorized use of the predetermined processing, the specific pattern displayed on the attachment is composed of two-color patterns, a bright color pattern and a dark color pattern, and the contrast is lowered. Generate as Specifically, for example, like a specific pattern 88 illustrated in FIG. The system pattern 89b is generated so that the contrast is low.

Then, when the S/N ratio, which is the ratio of the signal and noise regarding the luminance value of the specific pattern in the captured image captured by the imaging unit 23, is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, the control circuit 40 performs the predetermined processing. is permitted, and execution of the predetermined processing is not permitted even if a pattern having an S/N ratio exceeding the predetermined threshold value is captured. Here, in the present embodiment, the predetermined threshold value is higher than the value assumed as the S/N ratio regarding the luminance value in the captured image when a specific pattern displayed on the attachment, such as the specific pattern 88, is captured. set to a slightly higher value.

As a result, the captured image obtained by capturing the specific pattern corresponding to the specific pattern 88 by the imaging unit 23 has a relatively low S/N ratio with respect to the luminance value, as illustrated in FIG. becomes equal to or less than the predetermined threshold value, execution of the predetermined process by the control circuit 40 is permitted. On the other hand, a forged pattern obtained by simply copying (duplicating) a specific pattern corresponding to the specific pattern 88 has a low contrast, so it is difficult to adjust the contrast to the same level as that of the specific pattern. The quality of the paper on which the pattern is displayed and attached to the attachment also affects the pattern recognized from the captured image. In this case, as exemplified in FIG. 33, the captured image of the counterfeit pattern has a relatively high S/N ratio with respect to the luminance value compared to the low-contrast regular pattern. Therefore, even if the same information reader 1 is used, the control circuit 40 does not perform the predetermined processing. As a result, the specific pattern can have a forgery prevention function, and unauthorized use of the predetermined process using the forged specific pattern can be prevented.

The characteristic configuration of this embodiment in which a specific pattern is formed so as to have an anti-counterfeiting function can also be applied to other embodiments.

[Seventh embodiment]
Next, an attachment according to a seventh embodiment of the invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 34 to 37. FIG.
An attachment 60d according to the seventh embodiment differs from the attachment according to the first embodiment in that a plate 61 having a transparent portion 62 is attached to a mounting portion 80. FIG. Therefore, the same reference numerals are given to substantially the same components as those of the attachment of the first embodiment, and the description thereof will be omitted.

The display medium to be read by the present invention is not limited to a passport with a prescribed shape that is difficult to deform, but in rare cases, for example, the display surface on which display information is displayed may be formed from a soft paper surface or a surface different from the prescribed shape. . In the display medium formed in this manner, it is difficult to place the display medium on the placement section 80 so that the display surface faces the reading port 5, and therefore, reading of the display information may fail.

For example, when reading a passport 110 in which display information is displayed on the display surface 111 of relatively soft paper sandwiched between hard front and back covers, as illustrated in FIG. If the tip side of the surface 111 is not supported by the support surface 81e or the support surface 82e, the display surface 111 will be bent downward, and display information cannot be captured well. Further, for example, when reading a passport in which the display surface on which display information is displayed is smaller than the specified shape even if the front cover and the back cover have the specified shape, the display when placed on the placement unit 80 There is a problem that the tip side of the surface bends downward without being supported by the support surface 81e and the support surface 82e, and the display information cannot be captured well. In FIG. 37, for the sake of convenience, illustration of the information reading device 1 is omitted, and a part of the cover etc. of the passport 110 other than the paper on which the display surface 111 is formed is omitted.

Therefore, as shown in FIGS. 34 and 35, the attachment 60d according to the present embodiment is configured such that the plate 61 is newly attached to the mounting portion 80 described above. The plate 61 is fixed between one end side 81a of the beam portion 81 and one end side 82a of the beam portion 82 by bonding or the like to the upper surfaces of the support surfaces 81e and 82e and the upper surface of the connecting portion 83. . As a result, the plate 61 functions to planarly support the display surface 101 of the passport 100 facing the center of the reading port 5 on its upper surface from below.

The plate 61 is formed so as to have a transparent portion 62 and a light shielding portion 63 by covering a part of the upper surface of a transparent flat member made of synthetic resin or the like with a film or the like. The covering portion is formed by a first covering portion 64a located above the connecting portion 83 and a strip-like second covering portion 64b on the side of the contact surfaces 81d and 82d. A rectangular transparent portion is formed between them. Therefore, the portion of the plate 61 that is not covered by the covering portions 64a and 64b, that is, the portion interposed between the character information 102 and the reading port 5 is configured as a transparent portion 62, and the covering portions 64a and 64b are formed. The portion covered by 64 b , that is, the portion other than the transparent portion 62 is configured as the light shielding portion 63 .

In addition, as shown in FIG. 35, the first covering portion 64a is provided with information 65 or the like illustrating the arrangement method when the passport 100 is arranged on the plate 61 so that the arrangement method of the display medium can be easily recognized. can be displayed. Note that the information 65 is omitted from FIG. 34 for the sake of convenience. 34 and 35, for the sake of convenience, the portion visible through the transparent portion 62 is indicated by a two-dot chain line.

Next, referring to FIG. 36, the case where the information reader 1 to which the attachment 60d is attached as described above reads the character information 102 of the passport 100 will be described. It should be noted that the illustration of the information reading device 1 is omitted in FIG. 36 for convenience.

As shown in FIG. 36, one edge 101a of the passport 100 contacts the contact surface 81d of the beam 81 and the contact surface 82d of the beam 82, and the display surface 101 of the passport 100 is supported by the upper surface of the plate 61 from below. Place the passport 100 on the placing section 80 as shown. At this time, since the entire surface of the display surface 101 is in contact with the upper surface of the plate 61 , the display surface 101 can be pressed against the upper surface of the plate 61 by pressing the passport 100 from above.

In such a pressing state, the character information 102 of the passport 100 placed on the placing portion 80 is positioned within the imaging area through the transparent portion 62 of the information reading device 1 and at the center of the reading port 5. opposite. In such a state, an image of the character information 102 is formed on the light receiving surface 23a of the imaging unit 23. Since the imaged display information is the character information 102, the character information 102 can be obtained by using the OCR technique. Recognized.

As described above, the attachment 60d according to the present embodiment is provided with the plate 61 that is attached to the mounting portion 80 and supports at least a portion of the passport 100 from below. A portion of the plate 61 interposed between the character information 102 and the reading port 5 is configured as a transparent portion 62 .

As a result, even when the display surface 101 of the passport 100 on which the character information 102 is displayed is pressed against the plate 61, the character information 102 can be imaged through the transparent portion 62. Even a display medium formed from a surface having a different shape can be stably and easily placed on the placement section 80, so that the workability of reading can be improved.

A portion of the plate 61 interposed between the character information 102 and the reading port 5 is configured as a transparent portion 62 , and a portion other than the transparent portion 62 is configured as a light shielding portion 63 . Since the light shielding portion 63 is provided in this way, the transparent portion 62 excluding the light shielding portion 63 is easily recognized as an imaging area for imaging display information. Therefore, compared to the case where the entire plate is configured as a transparent portion, it becomes easier to direct the display information toward the reading port 5 so that the image can be captured, and the readability can be further improved.

The plate 61 is not limited to having the transparent portion 62 and the light shielding portion 63 by the covering portions 64a and 64b described above, and may be configured entirely as a transparent portion according to the shape of the mounting portion 80 and the like. At least the portion interposed between the display information and the reading port 5 may be configured as a transparent portion. Moreover, the surface of the transparent portion 62 is not limited to being formed in a rectangular shape by the covered portions 64a and 64b, and may be formed in a shape such as an elliptical shape that is easily recognized as an imaging area. Moreover, the characteristic configuration of this embodiment in which the plate 61 is assembled to the mounting portion can also be applied to other embodiments.

[Eighth embodiment]
Next, an attachment according to an eighth embodiment of the invention will be described with reference to FIG.
The attachment 60e according to the eighth embodiment is different from the attachment 60 according to the first embodiment in that the attachment 60e is formed so as to cover the reading port 5 of the assembled information reading device 1. FIG. Therefore, the same reference numerals are given to substantially the same components as those of the attachment of the first embodiment, and the description thereof will be omitted.

For example, in an environment where there is a possibility that strong extraneous light, such as illumination light from a spot light source directly above, may enter the reading port 5 of the information reading device 1, the extraneous light may make it difficult to read the displayed information. There is This is because the extraneous light is reflected inside the lens, and blurring or the like occurs due to the extraneous light captured together with the imaged display information.

Therefore, as shown in FIG. 38, the attachment 60e according to the present embodiment is configured to include a wall portion 200 for covering the reading port 5 with the display medium (passport 100) placed on the placement portion 80c. It is The wall portion 200 is integrated with a beam portion 81 having a positioning portion 81c, a beam portion 82 having a positioning portion 82c, and a mounting portion 80c configured to include a connecting portion 83. and.

The upper wall 201 connects the other end side of the beam portion 81 and the other end side of the beam portion 82 to form an opening 203 between the upper wall 201 and the connecting portion 83 . The peripheral wall 202 also functions as the base portion 70 and the support members 91 to 94, and is formed so as to cover the area between the mounting portion 80c and the reading port 5 in an annular shape. As a result, when the attachment 60 e is attached to the information reading device 1 , external light is less likely to enter the reading port 5 except for the opening 203 .

When the passport 100 is placed on the mounting portion 80c with the attachment 60e configured as described above assembled to the information reading device 1, the opening 203 is covered with the passport 100. A closed space in which the reading port 5 is closed by the portion 200 is formed. Therefore, even strong extraneous light is less likely to enter the reading port 5, so that the influence of the extraneous light on the imaging of the character information (display information) 102 of the passport 100 can be suppressed.

As a modification of this embodiment, at least a part of the wall portion 200 may be formed of, as the transmission member 204, a diffusion transmission member that diffuses transmitted light or an attenuated transmission member that attenuates transmitted light. Here, the diffuse transmission member can be formed, for example, by subjecting the surface of the transparent member to fine unevenness processing. Further, as the attenuated transmission member, for example, a color filter that transmits light of a specific color can be employed. As a result, depending on the position at which the diffuse transmission member or the attenuated transmission member is provided, it becomes easier to brighten the range of the field of view of the imaging unit 23 in the closed space or make the brightness within the range of the field of view more uniform. While suppressing the influence of light, it is possible to make it easier to use the external light transmitted through the diffuse transmission member or the attenuated transmission member as illumination for the display information.

Specifically, the wall section 200 allows external light to enter a region where insufficient illuminance is likely to occur in the visual field range of the imaging section 23. Therefore, for example, as illustrated by reference numeral 204 in FIG. can be formed so that the parts positioned on the short edge side (the edge extending in the front-rear direction) serve as diffusion transmission members. In the visual field range of the imaging unit 23, the outer edges of the visual field range (regions at both ends of the rectangular visual field range in the longitudinal direction) away from the visual field center (optical axis) where illuminance is likely to be insufficient are located on the short edge side of the reading port 5. It is for As a result, it is possible to appropriately adjust the illuminance with respect to the visual field range, and it is possible to easily read the displayed information and take an image.

Note that the characteristic configuration of this embodiment regarding the attachment having the wall portion 200 and the diffuse transmission member or the attenuation transmission member can also be applied to attachments of other embodiments.

[Ninth Embodiment]
Next, an information reader according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 40 to 43. FIG.
The information reading apparatus 1a according to the ninth embodiment differs from the information reading apparatus according to the first embodiment in that an auxiliary light source different from the illumination light source 21 is provided. Therefore, the same reference numerals are assigned to substantially the same components as those of the information reading apparatus of the first embodiment, and the description thereof will be omitted.

40 and 41, the information reading apparatus 1a according to this embodiment is configured to include not only the illumination light source 21 but also a pair of auxiliary light sources 22. As shown in FIGS. The auxiliary light source 22 is controlled by the control circuit 40 to irradiate the character information (display information) 102 of the passport (display medium) 100 placed on the placement portion 80 of the attachment 60 with the second illumination light Lf2. It functions as a light source for In particular, as shown in FIG. 42, the supplemental light source 22 is arranged at the center of the field of view ( are arranged in the vicinity of the short edge side of the reading port 5 so as to irradiate the second illumination light Lf2 to the outer edge of the visual field range (regions at both longitudinal ends of the rectangular visual field range) Sa separated from the optical axis). ing. 42, illustration of the attachment 60 is omitted for the sake of convenience.

Here, the reason why the auxiliary light source 22 is provided will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 43, the two-dot chain line X1-X1 indicates the illuminance distribution (illumination distribution) in the vicinity of the reading port 5, and the two-dot chain line X2a-X2a indicates the vicinity of the mounting section 80 (the two-dot chain line X2- X2) shows the illuminance distribution only by the illumination light source 21, the two-dot chain line X2b-X2b shows the illuminance distribution only by the auxiliary light source 22 in the vicinity of the mounting portion 80, and the two-dot chain line X2c-X2c shows the mounting 8 shows the illuminance distribution by the illumination light source 21 and the auxiliary light source 22 in the vicinity of the portion 80. FIG.

As in the information reader 1 described above, the illuminance of illumination light passing through a predetermined high-illuminance region β defined near the periphery of the viewing range is higher than the illuminance of illumination light passing through the center P1 of the viewing range. In the configuration of the illumination light source 21 (see FIG. 10) that guides the illumination light so as to be large, the optimum illuminance distribution is obtained when the display medium is held directly over the reading port 5 without the attachment 60 attached (FIG. 43). (see double-dotted line X1-X1). That is, the illumination light source 21 functions as a main light source that irradiates the display information on the display medium held over the reading port 5 with the first illumination light Lf1 based on the state in which the attachment 60 is not assembled.

On the other hand, in the configuration of the information reading device 1 as described above, in the vicinity of the mounting portion 80 of the attachment 60 (see the two-dot chain line X2-X2 in FIG. 43), the field of view is The outer edge (see Sa in FIG. 42) of the viewing range away from the center (optical axis) becomes dark, resulting in insufficient illuminance. This lack of illuminance is caused by the conventional method of guiding the illumination light so that the illuminance of the illumination light passing through the central portion P1 of the viewing range and the illuminance of the illumination light passing through the peripheral portion of the viewing range are equal in the vicinity of the reading port 5. Even with the configuration, the same problem arises.

In this way, if the illuminance is insufficient at the outer edge of the visual field range (see Sa in FIG. 42) away from the visual field center in the vicinity of the mounting portion 80, the display information in that area may not be imaged in a readable manner. In this case, there arises a problem that the reading of the display information fails.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, as indicated by the two-dot chain line X2b-X2b in FIG. An auxiliary light source 22 is provided so as to As a result, in the vicinity of the mounting portion 80 of the attachment 60, the insufficient illuminance of the first illumination light Lf1 is compensated for by the second illumination light Lf2. Illuminance distribution at the outer edge of the field of view away from can be improved and optimized.

As described above, in the information reading device 1a according to the present embodiment, the first illumination light Lf1 is applied to the display information on the display medium held over the reading port 5 based on the state in which the attachment 60 is not assembled. and an auxiliary light source 22 for irradiating the display information on the display medium placed on the placement portion 80 with the second illumination light Lf2. As a result, when the display medium is held over the reading port 5 without the attachment 60 attached, and when the display medium is placed on the placement section 80 with the attachment 60 attached, the illuminance Since the distribution can be easily optimized, the displayed information can be easily read and imaged regardless of whether or not it is attached.

In particular, the auxiliary light source 22 is arranged so as to irradiate the outer edges, which are both longitudinal ends of the visual field range of the imaging unit 23, with the second illumination light Lf2. As a result, the second illumination light is applied to the outer edge of the visual field range where insufficient illuminance tends to occur, so that the illuminance for the visual field range can be appropriately adjusted, and the display information can be easily read and imaged.

The auxiliary light source 22 is not limited to being arranged so as to illuminate the outer edges, which are both longitudinal ends of the field of view of the imaging unit 23, with the second illumination light Lf2. may be arranged so as to illuminate at least a part of the outer edge of the field of view range of the imaging unit 23 . In addition, the auxiliary light source 22 is arranged so as to irradiate the lateral center (see symbol Sa in FIG. 42) of the outer edges, which are both ends in the longitudinal direction of the visual field range of the imaging unit 23, with the second illumination light Lf2. It may be arranged so as to irradiate the outer edge in a belt shape along the width direction.

In addition, the auxiliary light source 22 may be arranged so that the second illumination light Lf2 is directly applied to the outer edges, which are both longitudinal ends of the visual field range of the imaging unit 23, or the like. It may be arranged to irradiate the outer edges or the like, which are both longitudinal ends of the visual field range of the imaging unit 23 , through the optically transparent portion of 60 . In this way, since the second illumination light Lf2 is not attenuated by direct irradiation with the second illumination light Lf2, the second illumination light Lf2 can be used efficiently. In addition, the auxiliary light source 22 is not limited to being configured to irradiate the second illumination light Lf2 toward the outer edges, which are the longitudinal ends of the visual field range of the imaging unit 23. may be configured to irradiate the second illumination light Lf2 toward the desired area of the .

It should be noted that the auxiliary light source 22 is not limited to being provided in pairs, and may be provided in one or three or more depending on the location where insufficient illuminance should be improved. Moreover, the characteristic configuration of the present embodiment regarding the information reader having the auxiliary light source 22 can also be applied to the information reader of other embodiments.

[Tenth embodiment]
Next, an attachment according to a tenth embodiment of the invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 44 to 46. FIG.
The attachment 60f according to the tenth embodiment is assembled to the information reading device 1a in the same manner as in the ninth embodiment. It differs from the attachment 60 in the ninth embodiment. Therefore, the same reference numerals are assigned to substantially the same components as in the ninth embodiment, and the description thereof will be omitted.

The attachment 60f according to the present embodiment is configured to add a first illuminance adjustment member 210 to the attachment 60 described above. As shown in FIG. 44, the first illuminance adjusting member 210 includes a base portion 211 and a reflecting portion 212 connected to the upper end of the base portion 211 so as to spread upward. The second illumination light Lf2 is arranged so as to be reflected outward by the reflecting portion 212 . In particular, in the reflecting section 212, the outwardly reflected second illumination light Lf2 is reflected by the beams 81, 82, etc., and travels toward the outer edges at both longitudinal ends of the visual field range of the imaging section 23 in the vicinity of the mounting section 80. The spread angle is set as follows.

Here, the reason for providing the first illuminance adjusting member 210 will be described with reference to FIGS. 45 and 46. FIG.
When a light source with a small irradiation angle (a light source with good straightness) such as an LED is used as the auxiliary light source 22, two points in FIG. As can be seen from the chain line X2b-X2b, the second illumination light Lf2 is spot-like illumination, so the second illumination light Lf2 may be reflected in the captured image, making it impossible to capture the display information in a readable manner.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, the first illuminance adjusting member 210 uses the second illumination light Lf2 for indirect illumination. As shown in FIG. 46, the second illumination light Lf2 emitted from the auxiliary light source 22 is reflected outward by the reflecting portion 212 of the first illumination adjustment member 210, and then reflected by the beam portions 81, 82, etc. It is reflected further and goes inward. By repeating such reflection, the illuminance distribution of the second illumination light Lf2 near the mounting portion 80 is smoothed. 46 shows an enlarged reflection state near the positioning portion 82c in FIG. 44, and for the sake of convenience, the second illumination light Lf2 is shown in a straight line.

As described above, even when a light source with a small irradiation angle such as an LED is used as the auxiliary light source 22, the second illumination light Lf2 can be used for indirect illumination in the vicinity of the mounting portion 80. The illuminance distribution of the light Lf2 can be easily smoothed, and the illuminance for the visual field range can be appropriately adjusted together with the first illumination light Lf1, so that display information can be easily read and an image can be captured. In particular, a dedicated lens or the like for widening the irradiation angle of the second illumination light Lf2 becomes unnecessary, the information reading device 1a having the auxiliary light source 22 is simplified, and the size of the device itself can be reduced. .

Note that the first illuminance adjusting member 210 is not limited to being formed so as to have the base portion 211 and the reflecting portion 212, and the second illumination light Lf2 is indirectly illuminated by utilizing one or more reflections. It may be formed so as to be directed toward the outer edges, which are the longitudinal ends of the viewing range. Further, the first illuminance adjusting member 210 is not limited to being formed so as to reflect all of the second illumination light Lf2, and is formed so as to reflect part of the second illumination light Lf2 in an indirect illumination manner. may be

As a modification of the present embodiment, instead of the first illumination adjustment member 210 that reflects the second illumination light Lf2 to adjust the illumination, a second illumination light Lf2 that adjusts the illumination by refracting or scattering the second illumination light Lf2 is provided. The attachment 60f may be configured to provide two illuminance adjusting members 220 . In this modification, as shown in FIG. 47, the second illumination light Lf2 passing through the second illumination adjustment member 220 is refracted or scattered, so that the second illumination light Lf2 near the mounting portion 80 Illuminance distribution is smoothed. Even in this way, the illuminance distribution of the second illumination light Lf2 in the vicinity of the mounting portion 80 can be easily smoothed, and the illuminance for the visual field range can be appropriately adjusted together with the first illumination light Lf1, thereby improving the display. Information can be read and imaged easily. Further, a dedicated lens or the like for widening the irradiation angle of the second illumination light Lf2 is not necessary, the information reading device 1a having the auxiliary light source 22 is simplified, and the size of the device itself can be reduced. .

In addition, the second illumination adjustment member 220 is not limited to be formed so as to refract or scatter all of the second illumination light Lf2, and is formed so as to refract or scatter a part of the second illumination light Lf2. may be

In addition, the characteristic configuration of the present embodiment regarding the attachment for providing the first illumination adjustment member 210 and the second illumination adjustment member 220 to the auxiliary light source 22 is assembled to the information reading apparatus having the auxiliary light source 22. can also be applied to the attachment of the embodiment of

[Eleventh embodiment]
Next, an information reader according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.
The information reading apparatus 1a according to the eleventh embodiment differs from the information reading apparatus according to the ninth embodiment in that the control of the auxiliary light source 22 is changed according to the usage situation or the like. Therefore, substantially the same components as those of the information reading apparatus of the ninth embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof are omitted.

In this embodiment, by controlling the auxiliary light source 22 with the control circuit 40 functioning as light source control means, the wavelength, light emission intensity and light emission timing (light emission start time, light emission time, light emission end time, etc.) of the second illumination light Lf2 are controlled. ) is selectively changed according to the usage situation or the like. Specifically, in the present embodiment, it is detected whether or not the attachment 60 is attached, and when the attachment is detected, the auxiliary light source 22 is caused to emit white light to improve the illuminance distribution described above, and the attachment is not detected. In some cases, the auxiliary light source 22 is caused to emit blue light to notify the result of reading. Therefore, the auxiliary light source 22 is configured to be capable of emitting light in a plurality of colors including white and blue at predetermined emission intensities and emission timings. Attachment of the attachment 60 may be detected by imaging the above-described specific pattern 87 or the like, or may be detected using detection means such as a contact switch.

The light source control process performed by the control circuit 40 when controlling the auxiliary light source 22 and the like will be described below with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.
When the light source control process is started by the control circuit 40 in response to a predetermined operation or the like on the information reader 1a, first, the attachment 60 is attached to the information reader 1a in the determination process shown in step S101 of FIG. A determination is made as to whether presence is detected. Here, when it is detected that the attachment 60 is attached to the information reader 1a by the above-described detection method (Yes in S101), the control circuit 40 controls the illumination light source 21 (first light sources 21a, 21b). and the second light sources 21c and 21d) (S103), and the auxiliary light source 22 emits the second illumination light Lf2 (S105). In particular, when the attachment 60 is attached to the information reader 1a, the auxiliary light source 22 is controlled to emit the second white illumination light Lf2 for improving the illuminance distribution described above.

As a result, the reading process shown in step S107 is performed in a state in which the illuminance distribution in the vicinity of the mounting portion 80 is controlled by the first illumination light Lf1 and the second illumination light Lf2 so as to be suitable for imaging the display information. , processing for reading the display information imaged by the imaging unit 23 is performed. Until this reading is completed, the determination in step S109 is No, and the processing from step S103 is repeated.

When the reading of the display information is completed (Yes in S109) because the display information is imaged in a readable manner, reading completion notification processing shown in step S111 is performed. In this process, the auxiliary light source 22 irradiates the second illumination light Lf2 in a blue emission color, which is different from the light emission state in step S105, so that the display medium placed on the placement section 80 is displayed to the user. Completion of reading display information is notified. Then, the processing from step S103 is repeated, and when a predetermined end operation or the like is performed on the information reading device 1a, the light source control processing ends.

On the other hand, if it is not detected that the attachment 60 is attached to the information reader 1a in the determination process shown in step S101 (No in S101), the control circuit 40 controls the illumination light source 21 to 1 illumination light Lf1 is emitted (S113), and the auxiliary light source 22 is turned off (S115). As a result, the reading process shown in step S117 is performed in a state in which the illuminance distribution in the vicinity of the reading port 5 is controlled by the first illumination light Lf1 so as to be suitable for capturing the image of the display information, and the image is captured by the image capturing unit 23. Processing is performed to read the display information. Until this reading is completed, the determination in step S119 is No, and the processing from step S113 is repeated.

When the reading of the display information is completed (Yes in S109) because the display information is imaged in a readable manner, reading completion notification processing shown in step S121 is performed. In this process, the auxiliary light source 22 irradiates the second illumination light Lf2 in a blue emission color in the same manner as in the process in step S111, thereby displaying information on the display medium held over the reading port 5 to the user. is reported to have been read. Then, the processing from step S113 is repeated, and when a predetermined end operation or the like is performed on the information reading device 1a, the light source control processing ends.

As described above, in the information reading apparatus 1a according to the present embodiment, the auxiliary light source 22 is controlled by the control circuit 40 functioning as light source control means, thereby controlling the emission color (wavelength) of the second illumination light Lf2. do. In particular, the control of the auxiliary light source 22 when the mounting of the attachment is detected (S105) and the control of the auxiliary light source 22 when the mounting of the attachment is not detected (S115) are changed. Furthermore, by controlling the auxiliary light source 22 according to the reading result of the display information, the reading result is reported using the second illumination light Lf2 (S111, S121).

As a result, the auxiliary light source 22, which is necessary when the attachment is assembled, can also be used for notifying the reading result of the display information when the attachment is not attached. It is possible to achieve not only cost reduction but also miniaturization of the device itself. In addition, in the process in step S105, the second illumination light Lf2 is not limited to being controlled to be emitted with the white second illumination light Lf2. It may be controlled to emit illumination light Lf2. For example, the auxiliary light source 22 may be controlled so as to synchronize its light emission timing with the imaging timing of the imaging section 23 . In addition, in the process in step S111, the control is not limited to emitting the blue second illumination light Lf2. It may be controlled to emit illumination light Lf2. Similarly, in the process in step S121, the control is not limited to emitting the blue second illumination light Lf2. It may be controlled to irradiate the illumination light Lf2, or may be controlled to irradiate the second illumination light Lf2 in a different light emission state (for example, different light emission time) from the process in step S111.

By using the auxiliary light source 22 not only for notifying the reading completion of the display information when the attachment is not assembled, but also for notifying predetermined information including the success or failure of the reading result, the predetermined It is possible to achieve not only cost reduction but also miniaturization of the device itself by sharing parts related to the notification of information, etc.

Further, the auxiliary light source 22 may be controlled by the control circuit 40 for at least one of the wavelength (light color), light emission intensity, and light emission timing of the second illumination light Lf2 regardless of whether or not the mounting of the attachment is detected. As a result, even when various display media are imaged, the display information can be easily read and imaged by controlling the auxiliary light source 22 in consideration of the wavelength characteristics, illumination intensity, etc. of illumination suitable for imaging the display information. be able to. Further, regarding the notification of the predetermined information described above, by controlling at least one of the wavelength, emission intensity, and emission timing of the second illumination light Lf2 according to the type of the predetermined information to be notified, more types information can be easily notified visually.

In particular, the control circuit 40 changes at least one of the wavelength, emission intensity, and emission timing of the second illumination light Lf2 according to information input from the outside via a communication interface (not shown). The auxiliary light source 22 can be controlled at any time. As a result, even when various display media are imaged, information for controlling the auxiliary light source 22 can be input from the outside in consideration of the wavelength characteristics, illumination intensity, etc. of illumination suitable for imaging the display information. , the displayed information can be easily read and imaged.

For example, when imaging a display medium with a red pattern in the background of the displayed information, it is possible to reduce the influence of the background pattern and facilitate reading of the displayed information by emitting red illumination light. However, on the other hand, there are cases where it is desired to set the default emission color to a color other than red due to market demand. Even in this case, the information for emitting the second illumination light Lf2 in red is input from the outside to the control circuit 40 in response to the user's request, so that the default emission color is not set. The auxiliary light source 22 is controlled so that the second illumination light Lf2 is emitted in a red color that is not used. As a result, in the default state, the second illumination light Lf2 is emitted in a highly versatile emission color (for example, white), and the second illumination light Lf2 of the default color affects the reading. By emitting the second illumination light Lf2 in a color suitable for the background, etc., display information on various display media can be easily read and imaged.

The characteristic configuration of this embodiment, in which the control of the auxiliary light source 22 is changed according to usage conditions, etc., can also be applied to information reading apparatuses of other embodiments having the auxiliary light source 22 .

[Other embodiments]
In addition, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and may be embodied as follows, for example.
(1) The placing portions 80, 80a, and 80c are not limited to being formed so that the passport 100 is placed thereon, and may be formed so that a display medium having a different shape or the like is placed thereon.

(2) The attachments 60, 60b, 60d, and 60f are not limited to having one mounting portion 80, and may have a plurality of mounting portions. Further, the attachment 60a is not limited to having one placement portion 80a, and may have a plurality of placement portions. Further, the attachment 60e is not limited to having one placement portion 80c, and may have a plurality of placement portions. For example, in the case of the attachment 60a, an upper mounting portion 80a provided on top of each of the support members 91 to 94 and an intermediate portion of each of the support members 91 to 94 directly below the upper mounting portion 80a. It is also possible to provide two resting portions 80a with the lower resting portion 80a. By forming the placement portions at a plurality of locations in this manner, one placement portion selected according to the size, position, etc. of the character information 102 (display information) from among the plurality of placement portions can hold the passport 100 ( By placing the display medium), the distance between the character information 102 (display information) and the reading port 5 can be easily changed.

(3) The mounting portions 80, 80a, 80c are not limited to being formed as part of the attachments 60, 60a, 60b, 60d, 60e, 60f that are detachably attached to the information reading device 1. It may be provided integrally with the case 3 forming the outer shell of the information reading device 1, 1a.

(4) The mounting portions 80, 80a, and 80c are not limited to being formed so that one edge 101a of the passport 100 is mounted along the width direction of the information reader 1. For example, an attachment shown in FIG. The passport 100 may be formed so that one edge 101a of the passport 100 is placed along the diagonal line of the reading port 5, like the placement portion 80b of 60c. In this case, the support member 91 may be provided with a support portion 83a that supports a portion of the display surface 101 of the passport 100 away from the one edge 101a from below. As a result, the area where the character information 102 faces the reading port 5 can be widened, so that even the character information 102 in a wide range can be imaged reliably.

(5) The side walls 71 and 72 of the base 70 are not limited to being formed so that the height from the placement surface F is substantially equal to the height of the reading port 5, but is lower than the height of the reading port 5. It may be formed as As a result, even when the display medium is held over the reading port 5 without using the mounting portions 80 and 80a, the display medium does not come in contact with the side walls 71 and 72, making it easier to hold the display medium over the reading port 5. can.

(6) The side wall 71 and the side wall 72 of the base 70 are not limited to being formed so that the height from the placement surface F is substantially equal to the height of the reading port 5, but is higher than the height of the reading port 5. It may be formed as In this case, at least the portions of the side walls 71 and 72 that are higher than the height of the reading port 5 are made of highly flexible members, so that the display medium can be read from the reading port without using the mounting portions 80 and 80a. 5, the collision between the reading port 5 and the display medium can be prevented or mitigated, and the reading port 5 and the like can be favorably protected.

(7) The information reading devices 1 and 1a may be configured to have a wireless communication function for reading data recorded in the passport 100 using an antenna (not shown) provided on the passport 100 .

(8) The placement sections 80 and 80a are not limited to being supported by the base section 70 via the four support members 91 to 94. For example, the mounting sections 80 and 80a are supported by the base section 70 via two support members. may be configured to be

(9) In the fourth embodiment and the like, attachment of an attachment is not limited to being detected by imaging a specific pattern displayed on the attachment by the imaging unit 23, but may be detected by separately providing other detection means. may For example, attachment of the attachment may be detected by detecting contact with the base portion 70 with a contact switch or the like provided on the outer surface of the case 3 .

(10) In the fourth embodiment and the like, the predetermined processing performed in response to the detection of the mounting of the attachment is the execution of the function of optically reading information codes such as one-dimensional codes and two-dimensional codes, and the execution of the OCR function. The processing is not limited to, and may be processing that can be implemented in another information reading device 1 , such as operation restriction of a buzzer or illuminance control of the illumination light source 21 . In particular, a specific pattern displayed on the attachment can be an information code in which adjustment information is recorded in a readable manner. In this case, it is possible to detect the attachment by reading the information code, and control the level of the predetermined processing performed according to the reading result. For example, the predetermined processing is the illumination control of the illumination light source 21, and the illumination can be adjusted according to the read result.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1, 1a... Information reader 3... Case 5... Reading port 21... Illumination light source (main light source)
22... Auxiliary light source 23... Imaging section (imaging means)
40... Control circuit (reading means, control means, detection means, light control means)
60, 60a, 60b, 60c, 60d, 60e, 60f... attachment (attachment for information reader)
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 61... Plate 62... Transparent part 63... Light shielding part 80, 80a, 80b, 80c... Mounting part 81, 82, 84, 85... Beam part 81c, 82c... Positioning part 84d, 85d... Guide surface 84f, 85f... Contact surface 86a, 86b... Clamping portion 87, 87a to 87d, 88... Specific pattern 100... Passport (display medium)
102... Character information (display information)
200 Wall portion 204 Transmissive member (Diffusion transmission member, Attenuated transmission member)
210 First illumination adjustment member 220 Second illumination adjustment member Lf1 First illumination light Lf2 Second illumination light

Claims (1)

A stationary information reader for reading display information displayed on a display medium by forming a rectangular reading port on the upper surface of a case and capturing an image of a display medium through the reading port by an imaging means,
At least an illumination light source and the imaging means are housed inside the case,
the reading port is configured by closing an opening formed in the upper surface with a light-transmitting member;
a second light source arranged on the short edge side of the reading port within a range where the light transmissive member is provided on the upper surface of the case;
light source control means for controlling the second light source to emit light in a direction in which the display medium is held in order to notify the reading result of the display information;
An information reader comprising:

Images