JPH09134403A - Optical information reader - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an optical information reader capable of reading out a one-dimensional(1D) bar code without depending upon the image forming position of an image at the time of using a two-dimensional(2D) image sensor as a reading medium and capable of efficiently reading out also a multistage 2D bar code and reducing the necessary capacity of a memory. SOLUTION: An entering part 16 enters binary data for plural lines so as to insert space every (n) lines out of binary data corresponding to a gradation signal outputted from a 2D image sensor part 14. A bar code identifying part 21 extracts binary data expressing a bar/space array pattern out of the entered binary data for plural lines. Then 1D bar code identification processing or multistage 2D bar code identification processing is executed based on the extracted binary data.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an optical information reader for optically reading a plurality of types of objects to be read such as a one-dimensional bar code recorded on a reading surface by using a two-dimensional image sensor.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art POS (P
(oint Of Sales) system, distribution systems widely used in factories, etc., usually attach a tag in which information such as product name code, price, manufacturing number, and manufacturer is recorded to the product,
Product inventory management and the like are performed by optically reading the information recorded on the tag.

The format currently used as the information recorded on the tag is, for example, a one-dimensional bar code, a multi-stage two-dimensional bar code in which the one-dimensional bar code is arranged in a plurality of columns in the column direction, a matrix two-dimensional bar code. There are types such as barcodes and characters. Among these, a specific example of reading a one-dimensional bar code is disclosed in, for example, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 4-69787.

More specifically, the technique disclosed in this publication uses a two-dimensional image sensor as a reading medium. Two-dimensional image sensor, for example, 10
It has an image plane in which (μm) × 10 (μm) substantially square read pixels are two-dimensionally arranged in the row direction (horizontal direction) and the column direction (height direction). When reading a one-dimensional bar code, the opening of the scanner incorporating the two-dimensional image sensor is applied to the tag so that the one-dimensional bar code fits, and light is emitted in this state to correspond to the one-dimensional bar code. An image is formed on the image plane of the two-dimensional image sensor through a lens system.

When an image corresponding to a one-dimensional bar code is formed on the image forming surface, a gradation signal corresponding to the gradation of the image is created in each of the read pixels. The created grayscale signal is converted into binary data. Then, one of the defined binary data is extracted from the converted binary data. Then, the bar / space array pattern is identified based on the extracted binary data, and which one-dimensional barcode the image corresponds to is recognized based on the identification result.

The reason why only one line of binary data is used for the identification is that the one-dimensional bar code contains the grayscale information only in the line direction, so that one line of binary data is sufficient. is there. On the other hand, when reading a multi-stage two-dimensional barcode, it is necessary to use a two-dimensional image sensor as in the case of the one-dimensional barcode.

Here, the positional relationship between the image corresponding to the multi-stage two-dimensional bar code and the image plane will be described. Of the multi-stage two-dimensional bar code image, the bar of the one-dimensional bar code forming each stage is described. The image corresponding to is formed over a plurality of rows (for example, 9 rows) in the column direction of the imaging surface, depending on the size of the printed barcode. Reading a multi-stage two-dimensional barcode is different from a one-dimensional barcode in the identification process. That is, in the multi-stage two-dimensional barcode identification process, the bar / space array pattern is identified based on the binary data corresponding to all the rows of the two-dimensional image sensor. Then, based on the identification result, it is recognized which multi-step two-dimensional bar code the image formed on the image forming surface corresponds to.

[0008]

By the way, when the opening of the scanner is applied to the tag, it is difficult to always apply the image so that the image is formed at the same position on the image forming plane. On the other hand, the opening of the scanner in which the two-dimensional image sensor used as the reading medium in the above-mentioned conventional technique is built is longer in the column direction than when the one-dimensional image sensor is used. Therefore, in the above-mentioned conventional technique, the image corresponding to the one-dimensional bar code may be formed at another position instead of the position on the image plane corresponding to the row from which the binary data is to be extracted. In such a case, the bar / space arrangement pattern cannot be determined. As a result, there is a problem that the one-dimensional barcode cannot be read.

On the other hand, when reading a multi-stage two-dimensional bar code, as described above, the identification processing is performed using the binary data for all lines. However, the multi-stage two-dimensional barcode is a one-dimensional barcode arranged in a plurality of columns in the column direction as described above. Therefore, the binary data for the number of rows corresponding to each row is binary data representing the bar / space array pattern of one one-dimensional barcode.

Therefore, in the above-mentioned conventional technique, inefficient and useless processing of using binary data for a plurality of lines in order to identify one bar / space array pattern is performed. Become. Moreover, binary data is usually stored in a memory before the identification process is executed, and the memory also needs to have a capacity for storing useless binary data.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to solve the above-mentioned technical problems, and when a two-dimensional image sensor is used as a reading medium, it is possible to read a one-dimensional bar code without depending on the image forming position. It is to provide an optical information reading device that can be used. Another object of the present invention is to provide an optical information reading device capable of efficiently reading a multi-stage two-dimensional bar code and reducing the memory capacity.

[0012]

In order to achieve the above object, an optical information reading apparatus according to claim 1 is an optical information reading apparatus for optically reading a plurality of types of reading objects recorded on a reading surface. The apparatus is provided with an image forming plane in which a plurality of read pixels are two-dimensionally arranged in a row direction and a column direction, and a grayscale signal corresponding to the light and shade of an image formed on the image forming plane is read in each of the reading. The two-dimensional image sensor unit for sequentially outputting the created gray-scale signal and the image is formed on the image forming surface provided in the two-dimensional image sensor unit. Image means, binarizing means for binarizing the grayscale signal output from the two-dimensional image sensor to create binary data, and a plurality of binary data created by the binarizing means Binary data of n rows (n is 2 or more (Number) Data fetching means for fetching at intervals, and among the binary data of a plurality of rows fetched by this data fetching means, the binary data of a row representing a bar / space array pattern is judged and extracted. Based on the data extraction means and the binary data extracted by this data extraction means, the one-dimensional barcode identification processing or the multi-stage two-dimensional barcode identification processing is executed, and the identification is successful among the identification results. A recognition means for recognizing an object is included.

In this configuration, a plurality of rows of binary data spaced by n rows are fetched from the binary data corresponding to all the rows of the image plane of the two-dimensional image sensor, and the fetched binary data is fetched. Binary data representing a bar / space array pattern is determined from the data, and only the binary data is extracted. Then, the one-dimensional barcode identifying process or the multi-stage two-dimensional barcode identifying process is executed based on the extracted grayscale signal.

On the other hand, for example, no matter which position on the image plane the image corresponding to the one-dimensional bar code is formed, the image formation position is usually any one of a plurality of lines spaced by n lines. The position corresponds to that line. Therefore, the grayscale signal representing the bar / space array pattern can be reliably extracted. Therefore, the one-dimensional barcode can be read without depending on the image forming position.

In addition, a plurality of rows of binary data spaced by n rows are taken in, binary data representing an array pattern of bars / spaces is extracted, and a multistage type is extracted based on the extracted binary data. Since the two-dimensional bar code identification process is executed, the multi-stage two-dimensional bar code can be efficiently identified. Further, for example, when the binary data is stored in the memory before the identification process is executed, the memory is sufficient to have a capacity capable of storing the binary data in a plurality of rows spaced by n rows.

Whether or not the data is binary data representing the bar / space arrangement pattern can be determined by, for example, confirming the existence of both-end data unique to each barcode at both ends of the barcode. The optical information reading device according to claim 2 is an optical information reading device for optically reading a plurality of types of reading targets recorded on a reading surface, wherein a plurality of reading pixels are arranged in a row direction and a column direction. An image plane is arranged two-dimensionally, and a grayscale signal corresponding to the grayscale of the image formed on the image plane is shared by each of the read pixels, and the grayscale signal is created. A two-dimensional image sensor unit for outputting in an interline system,
An image forming means for forming an image on an image forming surface provided in the two-dimensional image sensor unit, and a binary image forming unit for binarizing a grayscale signal output from the two-dimensional image sensor to create binary data. The binarizing means, the data fetching means for fetching the binary data of the odd-numbered rows or the even-numbered rows of the binary data binarized by the binarizing means, and the data fetching means Of the binary data, the one-dimensional bar is determined based on the data extracting means for determining and extracting the binary data of the row representing the bar / space array pattern, and the binary data extracted by the data extracting means. It is characterized by including a recognition means for executing the code identification processing or the multi-stage two-dimensional bar code identification processing and recognizing the identification result that has been successfully identified.

With this configuration, when the grayscale signal is output by the interline method, the one-dimensional bar code identification processing or the one-dimensional barcode identification processing is performed based on the binary data corresponding to the grayscale signal of the odd-numbered row or even-numbered row that is output. A multi-stage two-dimensional barcode identification process is executed. That is, it is the same mode as the case where n is set to “2” in the configuration according to claim 1.

Therefore, as in the structure described in the first aspect, the one-dimensional bar code can be read without depending on the image forming position. In addition, the multi-stage two-dimensional barcode can be efficiently read. The optical information reading device according to claim 3 is the optical information reading device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein it is determined whether or not the recognition means has succeeded in recognizing a successfully identified object. Means and an image forming control means for newly forming an image on the image forming surface on the image forming means when it is judged that the object which has been successfully identified by the judging means cannot be recognized. Matrix-type two-dimensional bar code identification processing and character identification based on the binary data corresponding to the image newly formed on the image forming surface under the control of the image control means, and the binary data of all rows. The present invention is characterized by further including a second recognition means for performing the processing in parallel or performing one of these, and recognizing one of the identification results that has been successfully identified.

With this configuration, when the identification fails as a result of the execution of the one-dimensional barcode identification processing or the multi-stage two-dimensional barcode identification processing, a new image is formed,
Based on the resulting binary data for all lines, the matrix type two-dimensional barcode identification process and the character identification process are executed in parallel or one of them is executed. Then, of the results, the one that has been successfully identified is recognized.

That is, according to this configuration, not only the one-dimensional bar code and the multi-stage two-dimensional bar code but also the matrix type two-dimensional bar code and / or the character can be read by a single device. The optical information reading device according to claim 4 is the optical information reading device according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the two-dimensional image sensor unit reads a grayscale signal created by each read pixel. When outputting a grayscale signal of a row to be captured by the data capturing means, the readout clock having a normal cycle is applied to the two-dimensional image sensor,
When the grayscale signal of a row other than the row to be captured by the data capturing means is output, a clock supply means for providing a read clock having a cycle shorter than the normal cycle to the two-dimensional image sensor is further included. To do.

In this structure, the grayscale signals of the rows other than the row to be captured by the signal capturing means are read out at a higher speed than the grayscale signals of the row to be captured. Therefore, it is possible to save the time for reading unnecessary grayscale signals. An optical information reading device according to claim 5 is the optical information reading device according to claim 1, wherein data storage means for storing the binary data created by the binarization means in units of rows. Further, the data fetching means reads out a plurality of rows of binary data with an interval of n rows from the binary data held in the data storage means, and the recognition means identifies the binary data. If it is determined that the successful identification could not be recognized, and if the successful identification could not be recognized, the two of all the rows stored in the data storage means Based on the second data fetching means for reading the value data and the binary data read by the second data fetching means, the matrix type two-dimensional bar code identifying process and the character identifying process are performed in parallel. Or perform either of these,
Second recognition means for recognizing one of the identification results that has been successfully identified is further included.

With this configuration, if the identification fails as a result of the execution of the one-dimensional bar code identification process or the multi-stage two-dimensional bar code identification process, the two lines of all the lines previously created and stored are stored. Using the value data, the matrix type two-dimensional barcode identification process and the character identification process are executed in parallel or one of them is executed. Therefore, similar to the configuration according to the second aspect, not only the one-dimensional barcode and the multi-step two-dimensional barcode but also the matrix two-dimensional barcode and / or the character can be read.

Moreover, since there is binary data that has been created and stored before, it is not necessary to form a new image as in the configuration of claim 2. Therefore, the processing can be simplified as compared with the configuration according to the second aspect.

[0024]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the optical information reading device of the first embodiment of the present invention. This optical information reader is for optically reading a one-dimensional bar code or a multi-stage two-dimensional bar code (hereinafter simply referred to as “bar code”) 2 which is a reading target recorded on the reading surface 1. The scanner 10 and the main body processing unit 20 are provided.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the bar code 2. The one-dimensional barcode is a one-dimensional array of bars and spaces, as shown in FIG. 2 (a). As shown in FIG. 2 (b), the multi-stage two-dimensional bar code has the one-dimensional bar code arranged in a plurality of rows (6 rows in the figure) in the column direction R. Both ends of the one-dimensional barcode and the multi-stage two-dimensional barcode have bars / spaces arranged in a unique arrangement pattern.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an external configuration of the scanner 10. The scanner 10 has a size and shape that a user can hold by hand, and the opening 1
0a is formed. Vertical edge 10b of the opening 10a
Is longer than the bar of the one-dimensional bar code. The reason why the vertical edge portion 10b of the opening portion 10a is long is that the scanner 10 has a two-dimensional image sensor portion described later built therein.

Returning to FIG. 1, the scanner 10 includes a scanner control section 11 that functions as a control center of the scanner 10. The scanner 10 also includes a light source 12 for emitting light. A light emitting diode (LED), a semiconductor laser, or the like can be applied to the light source 12. Light source 1
Lighting of No. 2 is controlled by the scanner control unit 11.

When reading the bar code 2, the opening 10a (see FIG. 3) of the scanner 10 is applied to the reading surface 1,
In this state, the light from the light source 12 is emitted toward the barcode 2. As a result, light corresponding to the shade of the barcode 2 is diffusely reflected. The irregularly reflected light enters the two-dimensional image sensor unit 14 via the lens system 13. As described above, in this embodiment, the scanner control unit 11, the light source 12, and the lens system 13 function as an image forming unit.

The two-dimensional image sensor section 14 is composed of, for example, a CCD (charge coupled device) image sensor, and has a visual field capable of forming an image of the entire bar code 2. The two-dimensional image sensor unit 14 is provided with an image forming surface 14a. The reflected light that has entered through the lens system 13b or the like is imaged on the image forming surface 14a. As shown in FIG. 4, the image plane 14a has a plurality of read pixels Pe arranged two-dimensionally in the row direction G and the column direction R.
It has a substantially square shape. The reading pixel Pe is, for example, of a substantially square shape having a size of 10 (μm) in length × 10 (μm) in width, and is composed of a photoelectric conversion element such as a phototransistor.

Image plane 14 of two-dimensional image sensor unit 14
When an image corresponding to the barcode 2 is formed on a, an electric signal (hereinafter referred to as a “gray level signal”) corresponding to the gray level of the image formed on the read pixel Pe is created at each read pixel Pe. To be done. Specifically, for example, when an image corresponding to a bar is formed, a gray level signal of a relatively low level is generated, and when an image corresponding to a space is formed, a gray level signal of a relatively high level is formed. A gray signal is created. Further, when an image corresponding to the edge of the bar is formed, a gray level signal having a level proportional to the area occupancy of the black image with respect to the read pixel Pe is created.

The grayscale signals produced by the read pixels Pe are sequentially output in response to the read clock of a constant cycle output from the scanner control section 11. More specifically, the scanner controller 11 supplies a vertical transfer clock and a horizontal transfer clock as the read clocks. The vertical transfer clock is a clock for instructing to change the row number to be read, and the horizontal transfer clock is a clock for instructing to change the column number to be read. The vertical transfer clock is output in response to the output of the horizontal transfer clock indicating the column number at the end of the row.

In response to the horizontal transfer clock being applied, the two-dimensional image sensor unit 14 sequentially outputs the grayscale signal created by the read pixels Pe on the same row in the row direction G, and then the vertical direction. In response to the transfer clock being applied, the row to be output is shifted to the next row, and the same output processing as described above is repeated. Two-dimensional image sensor unit 1
The grayscale signal output from 4 is supplied to the binarization unit 15.

The binarization unit 15 binarizes the given grayscale signal. As a result, binary data is created. The created binary data is provided to the capturing unit 16. The capture unit 16 captures specific binary data from the given binary data. The capture of binary data in the capture unit 16 is controlled by the scanner control unit 11.

The scanner control section 11 counts the vertical transfer clock given to the two-dimensional image sensor section 14, and gives a fetch permission signal to the fetch section 16 based on the count result. Specifically, the scanner control unit 11
The take-in permission signal is given at intervals of n rows (for example, n = 4). When the capturing permission signal is given, the capturing unit 16 captures the binary data in response to this. As a result, a plurality of rows of binary data are captured every n rows. That is, as shown in FIG. 5, a plurality of rows L ₁ , L _{n + 1} , L _{2n + 1} , ...
The binary data of is captured. The fetched binary data is given to the memory 17 and held in row units. After that, the held binary data is given to the main body processing unit 20 at a predetermined timing.

The main body processing section 20 includes a bar code identifying section 2
1 is provided. First, the barcode identification unit 21
Binary data representing a row / space array pattern is extracted from the given plurality of rows of binary data. Specifically, binary data (hereinafter referred to as “both end data”) representing both end portions of the bar / space array pattern is determined from the above binary data, and the binary data of the row including the determined both end data is determined. Extract value data.

Here, the opening 10a (see FIG. 3) of the scanner 10 of this embodiment has the vertical edge 10 as described above.
b is relatively long. Therefore, for example, when reading a one-dimensional bar code, the image corresponding to the one-dimensional bar code does not form an image over the positions corresponding to all the rows on the imaging surface 14a, but corresponds to a part of the rows. An image may be formed at a position where

On the other hand, in this embodiment, a plurality of rows of binary data spaced by n rows are fetched, and the binary data of the rows including both end data are judged and extracted from the fetched binary data. I am trying. Therefore, the image formation position of the image usually corresponds to any one of the captured plurality of rows. Therefore, it is possible to reliably extract the binary data of the row including the data at both ends.

Further, the both-end data to be judged is
As described above, it is unique to the one-dimensional barcode or the multi-stage two-dimensional barcode. Therefore, it is possible to determine whether the binary data corresponds to the one-dimensional barcode or the multi-stage two-dimensional barcode simultaneously with the determination of the both-end data. After extracting the binary data of the row including the both-end data, if the both-end data corresponds to the one-dimensional barcode, select any one row of the binary data from the extracted binary data. The bar / space arrangement pattern is identified based on the extracted binary data. This identification result is given only to the one-dimensional barcode recognition unit 22a.

On the other hand, when the both-end data corresponds to the multi-stage two-dimensional bar code, the bar / space arrangement pattern of each stage is identified based on the extracted binary data. This identification result is given only to the multistage two-dimensional barcode recognition unit 22b. Each recognition unit 22a, 22
In b, according to the one-dimensional barcode recognition algorithm or the multi-stage two-dimensional barcode recognition algorithm, respectively, based on the given identification result, the one-dimensional array pattern of the bar / space which is the given identification result is obtained. It is recognized whether it corresponds to a barcode or a multi-stage two-dimensional barcode. The recognition result is given to the output determination unit 23.

The output judging section 23 includes the recognizing sections 22a,
Based on the recognition result given from 22b, it is determined which recognition result is successful. At this time, since the recognition result is output from only one of the recognition units 22a and 22b, it is determined that the output recognition result has been successfully recognized. After that, the recognition result is transmitted to a host computer or the like (not shown). Thereby, the reading of the barcode 2 recorded on the reading surface 1 is achieved.

As described above, according to the optical information reading apparatus of the first embodiment, a plurality of rows of binary data spaced by n rows are fetched, and the bar / space is selected from the fetched binary data. Since the binary data of the row including the array pattern is extracted, the binary data of the row including the bar / space array pattern can be reliably extracted without depending on the image forming position. Therefore, the one-dimensional barcode recorded on the reading surface 1 can be accurately read without depending on the image forming position.

Further, since the multi-stage type two-dimensional bar code identification processing is executed based on the binary data having an interval of n rows, the identification processing is performed based on the binary data of all rows. Compared with, the multi-stage two-dimensional barcode can be efficiently read. Moreover, the memory 17 for storing the binary data is sufficient if it has a capacity for storing the binary data with intervals of n rows, so that the capacity of the memory can be reduced.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the internal arrangement of the scanner control section which is a part of the optical information reading apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In the following description, FIG. 1 will be referred to as necessary. In the first embodiment, the so-called non-interline method is adopted as the output method of the grayscale signal created by the two-dimensional image sensor section 14, whereas in the second embodiment, the two-dimensional image sensor section is used. The difference is that the so-called interline method is adopted as the output method of the grayscale signal created in 14.

That is, in the second embodiment, after the grayscale signals of all odd rows (or even rows) are output, the grayscale signals of even rows (or odd rows) are output. This output switching is controlled by the scanner control unit 11.
Next, the scanner control unit 11 of the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

The scanner controller 11 is provided with a vertical transfer clock generator 11z for odd rows, a vertical transfer clock generator 11y for even rows, and a clock selector 11x. Each of the clock generation units 11z and 11y is for generating a unique vertical transfer clock that is output when reading the grayscale signals of the even-numbered rows and the odd-numbered rows. The vertical transfer clocks generated by the clock generation units 11z and 11y are given to the clock selection unit 11x.

In the clock selection section 11x, data indicating which grayscale signal of the even-numbered row or the odd-numbered row is to be output first is set. In the clock selection unit 11x,
When the vertical transfer clock is given from the clock generators 11z and 11y, one of the vertical transfer clocks is selected based on the set data. The selected vertical transfer clock corresponds to the two-dimensional image sensor unit 14
(See FIG. 1).

When the vertical transfer clock is a clock unique to even rows, the two-dimensional image sensor section 14 sequentially outputs only the grayscale signals of even rows. On the contrary, when the vertical transfer clock is a clock unique to the odd rows, only the grayscale signals of the odd rows are sequentially output. Here, since only the grayscale signals of the odd-numbered rows or the even-numbered rows are sequentially output, when the binary data is given to the acquisition unit 16 (see FIG. 1), the binary data with an interval of two rows is given. Will be done. That is, the same mode as when n = 2 is set.

Therefore, the scanner control section 11 is only able to output the grayscale signals of the odd-numbered rows or even-numbered rows.
It suffices to output a capture permission signal. Further, the capture permission signal may be output so that the binary data is captured at intervals of n rows from the grayscale signals of the odd-numbered rows or even-numbered rows. This second as above
The optical information reading device of the embodiment can also read the one-dimensional barcode without depending on the image forming position, as in the first embodiment. In addition, the multi-stage two-dimensional bar code can be efficiently read, and the capacity of the memory can be reduced.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing the electrical construction of the optical information reading apparatus of the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG.
In FIG. 1, the same reference numerals are used for the same functional parts as in FIG. In the first embodiment or the second embodiment, the one-dimensional barcode and the multi-stage two-dimensional barcode are targeted for reading, whereas in the third embodiment, the one-dimensional barcode and the multi-stage two-dimensional barcode are read. In addition to the barcode, the matrix type two-dimensional barcode and the character are different from each other in that they are read. Therefore, in the following, "bar code 2" will be referred to as "information 2".

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the matrix type two-dimensional bar code. Matrix type two-dimensional barcode,
It is a black and white grid and expresses information by a black and white array pattern. Returning to FIG. 7, in the third embodiment, the matrix type two-dimensional barcode and the characters are also read, so that the main body processing unit 20 further includes the matrix type two-dimensional barcode identifying unit 24 and the matrix. Type two-dimensional barcode recognition unit 25, character identification unit 26,
The character recognition unit 27 and the overall control unit 28 are provided. The overall control unit 28 functions as a control center of the main body processing unit 20. The overall control unit 28 also
The operation of the scanner control unit 11 provided in the scanner 10 can also be controlled.

In this configuration, the information 2 is set by the user.
When the instruction to read is given, the overall control unit 28 gives the scanner control unit 11 a light source drive instruction signal and an acquisition instruction signal. The scanner controller 11 turns on the light source 12 in response to the application of the light source drive instruction signal. As a result, the information 2 recorded on the reading surface 1 is irradiated with light, and an image corresponding to the information 2 is formed on the image forming surface 14a. Then, a grayscale signal corresponding to the image is output, and the output grayscale signal is converted into binary data.

The scanner control section 11 also gives an acceptance permission signal to the acceptance section 16 in response to the acceptance instruction signal. Here, when the two-dimensional image sensor unit 14 outputs a grayscale signal by the non-interline method, the scanner control unit 11 includes a plurality of n-row-spaced data from the converted binary data. A capture permission signal is given to the capture unit 16 so that the binary data of the row is captured.

On the other hand, when the two-dimensional image sensor unit 14 outputs the grayscale signal by the interline method, since the binary data having the intervals of two rows is already given, the binary data is given. It gives a capture acceptance signal during the whole period. Alternatively, a take-in permission signal is given to the taking-in section 16 so that the binary data having an interval of n rows can be taken in from the binary data having an interval of two rows.

The binary data fetched by the fetching section 16 is once held in the memory 17 and then given to the main body processing section 20. The overall control unit 28 also gives an execution permission signal to the barcode identification unit 21 and gives an execution prohibition signal to the matrix type two-dimensional barcode identification unit 24 and the character identification unit 26 in response to the reading instruction from the user. . As a result, only in the barcode identifying section 21, an identification process such as extraction of binary data including both-end data is executed based on the given binary data, as in the first embodiment. Then, according to the identification result, the recognition processing is executed in the one-dimensional barcode recognition unit 22a or the multi-stage two-dimensional barcode recognition unit 22b.

Here, when the binary data including both-ends data cannot be extracted by the barcode identification unit 21, or the one-dimensional barcode or the multiple-stage type is detected by the one-dimensional barcode recognition unit 22a or the multi-stage two-dimensional barcode recognition unit 22b. The two-dimensional barcode may not be recognized. In such a case, the information 2 corresponding to the image formed on the image forming surface 14a may be a matrix type two-dimensional barcode or a character.

Therefore, in the third embodiment, in the above-mentioned case, the bar code identifying section 21, the one-dimensional bar code recognizing section 22a or the multi-stage two-dimensional bar code recognizing section 2 is used.
From 2b, a signal indicating unrecognizable or unrecognizable (hereinafter referred to as "unrecognizable signal") is given to the overall control unit 28. When the unrecognizable signal is given, the overall control section 28 responds to this by giving the scanner control section 11 a light source drive instruction signal and a capture prohibition signal. Also,
The overall control unit 28 gives an execution prohibition signal to the barcode identification unit 21, and also gives an execution permission signal to the matrix type two-dimensional barcode identification unit 24 and the character identification unit 26.

The scanner controller 11 turns on the light source 12 again in response to the application of the light source drive instruction signal. As a result, a new image is formed on the image forming surface 14a, binarized, and then provided to the capturing unit 16. on the other hand,
Since the scanner control unit 11 is supplied with the capture prohibition signal, the capture unit 16 is not supplied with the capture permission signal from the scanner control unit 11. As a result, the binary data for all rows are held in the memory 17 and given to the main body processing unit 20.

On the other hand, in the main body processing section 20, as described above, the execution prohibition signal is given to the barcode identifying section 21 and the matrix type two-dimensional barcode identifying section 2 is provided.
4 and the character identification unit 26 are provided with the execution permission signal. Therefore, the identification process in the barcode identification unit 21 is not executed, and in the matrix type two-dimensional barcode identification unit 24 and the character recognition unit 26, the matrix type two-dimensional barcode is generated based on the binary data of all the lines. The identification process and the character identification process are executed in parallel.

Thereafter, in the matrix type two-dimensional bar code recognition section 25 and the character recognition section 27, the matrix type two-dimensional bar code recognition processing and the character recognition processing are performed in parallel in accordance with the matrix type two-dimensional bar code recognition algorithm and the character recognition algorithm. To be executed. The identification processing in the matrix type two-dimensional bar code identifying section 24 and the character identifying section 26, and the recognition processing in the matrix type two-dimensional bar code recognizing section 25 and the character recognizing section 27 are conventionally known, and therefore detailed description thereof is omitted. .

As described above, according to the optical information reading apparatus of the third embodiment, a plurality of rows of binary data spaced by n rows are fetched, and a bar is read from the fetched plurality of rows of binary data. Since the binary data of the row including the / space array pattern is extracted and the identification processing is executed, the one-dimensional barcode or the one-dimensional barcode can be obtained without depending on the image forming position, as in the first embodiment. Can read multi-stage two-dimensional barcodes.

Further, the recognition process corresponding to the one-dimensional bar code or the multi-stage two-dimensional bar code whose recognition speed is relatively fast and whose recognition process is relatively easy is executed first, and then the recognition speed is relatively high. Since the recognition processing corresponding to the matrix type two-dimensional bar code or the character that is relatively slow and the recognition processing is relatively difficult is executed, the processing speed as a whole is not impaired. Therefore, it is not inconvenient to use.

In the third embodiment, an execution permission signal is given to both the matrix type two-dimensional bar code identifying section 24 and the character identifying section 26, and the respective identifying sections 24 and 26 execute respective processes in parallel. However, for example, the execution permission signal may be given to only one of the matrix type two-dimensional barcode identifying section 24 and the character identifying section 26, and the processing may be performed only in one of the two.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing the arrangement of a scanner controller which is a part of the optical information reader according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. In the following description, FIG. 7 will be referred to as necessary. In the first to third embodiments, the read clock given to the two-dimensional image sensor unit 14 (see FIG. 7) has a constant cycle, whereas in the fourth embodiment, the read clock of the read clock is changed. The feature is that the cycle is changed as needed.

More specifically, it takes a certain amount of time to capture binary data every n rows. Therefore, in the first to third embodiments, the read clock having a cycle considering this time is generated and given to the two-dimensional image sensor unit 14. However, the time required to capture the binary data is unnecessary as far as the rows other than the row to be captured are concerned. Therefore, in the fourth embodiment, when reading binary data of a row to be captured, a read clock of a normal cycle is given to the two-dimensional image sensor unit 14, and when reading binary data of a row other than the row to be captured, A read clock having a cycle shorter than the normal cycle is given to the two-dimensional image sensor unit 14.

That is, in the scanner control unit 11 of the fourth embodiment, a normal cycle clock generation unit 11a for generating a normal cycle clock and a high speed cycle clock shorter than the normal cycle are generated. A high-speed cycle clock generator 11b is provided. The clock generated by each of the clock generation units 11a and 11b is the horizontal transfer clock of the vertical transfer clock and the horizontal transfer clock. The vertical transfer clock is generated by a clock generation unit (not shown). The clocks generated by the clock generators 11a and 11b are given to the clock selector 11c.

In the clock selection unit 11c, one of the clocks given from the clock generation units 11a and 11b is selected and given to the two-dimensional image sensor unit 14. The selection criterion in the clock selection unit 11c is based on the count value in the row counter 11d and the line number set in the line number setting unit 11e.

The row counter 11d updates the count value every time the vertical transfer clock is applied. That is, the count value corresponds to the line number. On the other hand, the line number set in the line number setting unit 11e is
Of all the row numbers on the imaging surface 14a, it is a plurality of row numbers for which binary data having n rows are taken.
In the clock selection unit 11c, the row counter 11d
The clock generated by the high-speed cycle clock generation unit 11b is selected only when the count value of 1 matches the line number set in the line number setting unit 11e.

As a result, when the binary data of the row to be fetched is read, the binary data is read at a relatively low speed, and when the binary data of the row other than the row to be fetched is read relatively. Binary data is read at high speed. As described above, according to the optical information reading apparatus of the fourth embodiment, since the binary data of the rows other than the row to be read is read at a relatively high speed, the overall processing time can be shortened. it can.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the electrical construction of an optical information reader according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 10, the same reference numerals are used for the same functional parts as in FIG. Like the third embodiment, the fifth embodiment is intended to read a one-dimensional barcode, a multi-stage two-dimensional barcode, a matrix two-dimensional barcode and a character, and is similar to the third embodiment. The differences are as follows.

That is, in the third embodiment, when the recognition of the one-dimensional bar code or the multi-stage two-dimensional bar code is unsuccessful, a new image corresponding to the object to be read is formed, and this newly formed image is formed. The matrix type two-dimensional barcode and the character recognition are executed based on the binary data of all the lines corresponding to the image. On the other hand, in the fifth embodiment, when the recognition of the one-dimensional bar code or the multi-stage two-dimensional bar code fails, the image formed before is not formed newly. By reusing the binary data for all lines corresponding to, the matrix type two-dimensional barcode and the character recognition are executed.

Next, with reference to FIG. 10, the optical information reading apparatus of the fifth embodiment will be described. In this optical information reading device, since the previous binary data is reused as described above, it is necessary to store all the binary data. In addition, if the extraction of the data at both ends fails, the binary data for all rows are required.

Therefore, in this optical information reader,
All the binary data output from the binarization unit 15 is temporarily stored in the memory 17. After that, the binary data stored in the memory 17 is selectively read out row by row, whereby the binary data is captured. On the other hand, when the extraction of the data at both ends fails, all the binary data held in the memory 17 is read. The switching of the reading of the binary data is executed by the scanner control unit 11 as described above.

As described above, according to the optical information reader of the fifth embodiment, when the recognition of the one-dimensional bar code or the multi-stage two-dimensional bar code fails, the memory 17 is processed by the conventional imaging process. Since the matrix type two-dimensional bar code and character recognition processing is executed by reusing the binary data held in, it is possible to effectively use the binary data.

Further, since it is not necessary to form a new image, the processing can be simplified. Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various other design changes can be made within the scope of the present invention. .

[0075]

As described above, according to the optical information reading apparatus of the present invention, a plurality of rows of binary data having an interval of n rows are fetched, and a bar / space of the fetched binary data is read. The binary data of the row including the array pattern is judged and extracted. Therefore, the binary data of the row including the bar / space array pattern can be reliably extracted without depending on the image forming position. for that reason,
The one-dimensional barcode can be reliably read without depending on the image forming position.

Further, since the multi-stage two-dimensional bar code identification processing is executed based on the binary data representing the arrangement pattern of the bars / spaces out of the binary data of a plurality of lines at intervals of n lines, the multi-stage two-dimensional bar code is identified. The barcode can be efficiently identified. Further, for example, when the binary data is stored in the memory before the identification process is executed, the memory is sufficient to have a capacity capable of storing the binary data in a plurality of rows spaced by n rows. Therefore, the capacity of the memory can be reduced.

Further, according to the optical information reader of the third aspect, the identification processing for the one-dimensional bar code or the multi-stage two-dimensional bar code having a relatively high recognition speed is first executed, and then the recognition speed is changed. Relatively slow matrix type two-dimensional bar code and character identification processing in parallel,
Or because you are running one of these,
It is possible to read a plurality of types of reading targets such as a one-dimensional barcode with a single device without impairing the processing speed.
Therefore, the usability does not deteriorate.

According to the optical information reader of the present invention, the grayscale signals of the rows other than the row to be captured are read out at a higher speed than the grayscale signals of the row to be captured.
It is possible to save the time for reading unnecessary grayscale signals. Therefore, the processing time can be shortened.
Furthermore, according to the optical information reader of claim 5,
When the recognition of a one-dimensional bar code or the like fails, the grayscale signal already held in the holding means is reused to recognize the matrix type two-dimensional bar code or the like, which complicates the processing. There is no.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram showing an electrical configuration of an optical information reading device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a reading target of the optical information reading device.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an external configuration of a scanner.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an image forming surface which is a part of the optical information reading device.

FIG. 5 is an illustrative view for facilitating understanding of a process of taking in binary data having an interval of n rows.

FIG. 6 is a schematic block diagram showing an electrical configuration of a scanner control unit that constitutes an optical information reading device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a schematic block diagram showing an electrical configuration of an optical information reading device according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a matrix type two-dimensional barcode which is one of the reading targets of the optical information reading apparatus of the third embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a schematic block diagram showing an electrical configuration of a scanner control unit that constitutes an optical information reading device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a schematic block diagram showing an electrical configuration of an optical information reading device according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 1 Reading Surface 2 Bar Code, Information 10 Scanner 11 Scanner Control Section 12 Light Source 13 Lens System 14 Two-dimensional Image Sensor Section 14a Imaging Surface 16 Capture Section 17 Memory 20 Main Processing Section 21 Bar Code Identification Section 22a One-dimensional Bar Code Recognition Part 22b Multi-stage two-dimensional bar code recognition unit 24 Matrix type two-dimensional bar code recognition unit 25 Matrix type two-dimensional bar code recognition unit 26 Character recognition unit 27 Character recognition unit 28 Overall control unit

Claims (5)

[Claims] 1. An optical information reading device for optically reading a plurality of types of read objects recorded on a reading surface, wherein a plurality of read pixels are two-dimensionally arranged in a row direction and a column direction. An image plane is provided, and a grayscale signal corresponding to the grayscale of the image formed on the image plane is shared by each of the read pixels, and the grayscale signal is sequentially output. Dimensional image sensor section, image forming means for forming an image on an image forming surface provided in the two dimensional image sensor section, and binary data by binarizing a grayscale signal output from the two dimensional image sensor. Of the binary data created by the binarizing means, and a data collection for importing a plurality of rows of binary data at intervals of n rows (n is a natural number of 2 or more). Capture means and capture with this data capture means Based on the binary data extracted by the data extracting means for determining and extracting the binary data of the row representing the array pattern of the bar / space among the binary data of a plurality of rows An optical information reading device for performing one-dimensional barcode identification processing or multistage two-dimensional barcode identification processing, and recognizing means for recognizing one of the identification results that has been successfully identified. . 2. An optical information reading device for optically reading a plurality of types of read objects recorded on a reading surface, wherein a plurality of read pixels are two-dimensionally arranged in a row direction and a column direction. An image plane is provided, and a grayscale signal corresponding to the grayscale of an image formed on the image plane is created for each of the read pixels, and the created grayscale signal is output by an interline method. A two-dimensional image sensor section, an image forming means for forming an image on an image forming surface provided in the two-dimensional image sensor section, and a gray-scale signal output from the two-dimensional image sensor Binarizing means for creating binary data, and data capturing means for capturing binary data of an odd row or an even row among the binary data binarized by the binarizing means, Captured by this data capture means Of the value data,
Based on the binary data extracted by the data extracting means for determining and extracting the binary data of the row representing the bar / space array pattern, the one-dimensional barcode identification processing or the multi-stage type An optical information reading device, comprising: a recognition means for executing a two-dimensional bar code identification process and recognizing one of the identification results that has been successfully identified. 3. A discriminating means for discriminating whether or not the discriminator succeeds in recognizing, and the discriminating means discriminates that the discriminator succeeds in recognizing. Image forming control means for newly forming an image on the image forming surface on the image forming means, and binary data corresponding to the image newly formed on the image forming surface under the control of the image forming control means. In addition, based on the binary data of all the rows, the matrix type two-dimensional bar code identification process and the character identification process are executed in parallel, or either one of them is executed, and the identification result is successful. The optical information reader according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a second recognizing means for recognizing the object. 4. The two-dimensional image sensor unit sequentially outputs a grayscale signal created by each read pixel in response to a read clock, and outputs a grayscale signal of a row to be captured by the data capturing means. In this case, a read clock having a normal cycle is applied to the two-dimensional image sensor, and when a grayscale signal of a row other than the row to be captured by the data capture means is output, a read clock having a cycle shorter than the normal cycle is provided to the two-dimensional image sensor. 4. The optical information reader according to claim 1, further comprising a clock supply means for supplying the three-dimensional image sensor. 5. The storage device further includes a data storage unit for storing the binary data created by the binarization unit on a row-by-row basis, and the data fetching unit is a binary value stored in the data storage unit. A plurality of rows of binary data with an interval of n rows are read out from the data, and a discriminating means for discriminating whether or not the successfully discriminated data can be recognized by the recognition means, and the discrimination means. When it is determined that the successfully identified item cannot be recognized, a second data fetching unit for reading the binary data of all the rows stored in the data storage unit, and the second data fetching unit Based on the binary data read by the means, the matrix type two-dimensional bar code identification process and the character identification process are executed in parallel, or either one of them is executed, and the identification result is identified. The optical information reader according to claim 1, further comprising a second recognizing unit for recognizing a successful one.