WO2020218542A1 - Optical information reading device - Google Patents

Abstract

[Problem] The present invention addresses the problem of providing a structure capable reducing the influence of extraneous light and the glare that surrounding people feel when an information code is read. [Solution] An optical information reading device (10) is provided. This device (10) has a housing (11). This housing (11) comprises a reading part (12) formed with a reading opening (50) that emits illumination light (Lf) from an illumination light source (21) and guides light from an information code (C) into the housing (11), and a grip part (13) that is gripped by a user when pointing the reading opening (50) at the information code (C). The reading part (12) extends from an end portion (13_TIP) on one side (tip side) in the longitudinal direction (LT) of the grip part (13) toward an obliquely downward direction with respect to the longitudinal direction (LT), and has an extended end portion (12a) on the tip side. The reading opening (50) is formed in this extended end portion (12a). A wall portion (56) protruding along the obliquely downward direction is provided at one side edge portion (52) of a peripheral edge (51) of the reading opening (50), the one side edge portion (52) being on the tip side most distant from the grip portion (13) in the longitudinal direction (LT).

Description

Optical information reader

The present invention relates to an optical information reading device that optically reads an information code such as a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code.

Conventionally, at cash registers in retail stores and convenience stores, bar code scanners that use line sensors as light receiving means are often used to read one-dimensional codes such as bar codes displayed on products. The barcode scanner is provided with a reading port long in one direction to facilitate reading of the barcode. Therefore, by bringing the reading port into contact with the bar code so that the longitudinal direction of the reading port is aligned with the longitudinal direction of the bar code, the bar code can be read.

In recent years, two-dimensional codes such as QR codes (registered trademarks) have become widespread, and the introduction of code scanners that can read two-dimensional codes using area sensors as light receiving means is increasing even at cash registers in retail stores and convenience stores. It is expected that. Then, it is necessary to read the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code with one optical information reading device, and as an optical information reading device capable of optically reading both the one-dimensional code and the two-dimensional code, for example, the following An optical information reading device disclosed in Patent Document 1 is known.

This optical information reading device is mainly a gun-type reading device formed so as to hold the grip portion in an upright state when the reading port is directed to the information code displayed on the vertical surface. An extension portion is provided around the reading port of the reading device, and the extension portion is formed with an opening for visually recognizing the information code at a portion different from the grip portion side. As a result, the information code can be visually recognized from above through the opening even when the information code is read while the extension bottom wall portion on the grip portion side of the extension portion is in contact with the vertical surface. Can be done.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2016-212861

By the way, in a reading device that reads an information code, as a reading operation when reading the information code displayed on a predetermined display surface, a reading operation (so-called so-called) in which a reading port is brought into contact with the display surface so as to cover the information code is read. Either touch reading) or a reading operation in which the reading port is pointed at the information code while away from the display surface is adopted. In a reading device that employs a reading operation in which the reading port is pointed at the information code while away from the display surface, the information code and the reading port are separated from each other when reading the information code, so that ambient illumination light, sunlight, etc. The extraneous light is reflected by the information code or the display surface (specular reflection), and the information code may not be readable. In addition, since the information code and the reading port are separated from each other, the illumination light radiated through the reading port is reflected by the information code and the display surface, so that the person facing the reading port is dazzled. You may feel.

The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a configuration capable of suppressing the influence of external light and the glare felt by people around when reading an information code. To provide.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 1 of the claims
Imaging units (28, 27) that image the information codes (C, C1, C2) displayed or arranged on the display surface (R), and
The illumination unit (21) that irradiates the illumination light (Lf) and
The image pickup unit and the illumination unit are housed inside, and a reading port (50) is provided to emit the illumination light from the illumination unit and introduce the light from the information codes (C, C1, C2) into the inside. With the housing (11)
With
An optical information reading device (10) that captures and reads the information code (C, C1, C2) by the imaging unit with the reading port separated from the display surface.
The housing is
A reading unit (12) on which the reading port (50) is formed,
A grip portion (13) that is gripped when the reading port is directed toward the information code (C, C1, C2) and is integrally formed with the reading portion (12).
With
The reading portion (12) extends diagonally downward in the longitudinal direction (LT) from the end portion (13 _TIP ) on one side in the longitudinal direction of the grip portion (13), and extends to the tip thereof at the extending end portion (12a). ) Is configured to have
The extending end portion (12a) has the reading port (50).
The reading port (50) has a peripheral edge (51) directed to the information code (C, C1, C2).
The peripheral edge (51) has a side edge (52) away from the grip (13) in the longitudinal direction (LT).
The one side edge portion (52) is provided with a wall portion (56) projecting diagonally downward.
The reference numerals in the parentheses indicate the correspondence with the specific means described in the embodiments described later.

In the invention of claim 1, the housing has a reading unit formed with a reading port for emitting illumination light from the lighting unit and introducing the light from the information code into the inside of the housing, and the reading port is an information code. It is provided with a grip portion that is gripped by a user or the like when facing the light. The reading unit has an extending end portion that extends continuously and integrally diagonally downward in the longitudinal direction from the end portion on one side in the longitudinal direction of the grip portion (that is, the tip portion in the longitudinal direction). The reading unit is connected to the grip portion by positioning the reading port at the extending end portion. Further, the reading port has a peripheral edge directed to the information code, which peripheral edge has a side edge away from the grip in the longitudinal direction. A wall portion that projects diagonally downward is provided on this one side edge portion.

As a result, when the information code is imaged by the imaging unit with the reading port away from the desired display surface, the wall portion is located behind the information code when viewed from the user who grips the grip portion. Since the user himself / herself is located on the front side of the information code, it is possible to make it difficult to capture the external light reflected by the information code or the like without impairing the visibility of the information code. Further, since it is difficult for the wall portion to reflect the reflected light of the information code or the like due to the illumination light through the reading port to the back side of the information code, the direction in which the reading port is directed (the direction corresponding to the back side) It is possible to suppress the glare felt by the person. In particular, by bringing the protruding end portion on the tip end side of the wall portion into contact with the display surface of the object, it is possible to more reliably suppress the influence of external light and the glare felt by the surrounding people. Therefore, when reading an information code, it is possible to realize an optical information reading device capable of suppressing the influence of external light and the glare felt by a surrounding person without impairing the visibility of the information code.

In the invention of claim 2, a pair of facing portions facing each other via the reading port and connected to the wall portion are provided on the peripheral edge of the reading port. As a result, it is possible to suppress not only the influence of the external light from the back side but also the influence of the external light from the left-right direction while reinforcing the wall portion by using the pair of facing portions.

In the invention of claim 3, the illumination unit is arranged so as to irradiate the illumination light toward the wall unit. When the angle of the illumination light irradiation direction (optical axis) with respect to the desired display surface is brought close to 90 °, the specular reflection caused by the illumination light tends to affect the reading, while the angle of the illumination light is simply reduced. Then, it becomes difficult for the information code with the reading port to be irradiated with the illumination light. Therefore, by arranging the illumination unit so that the illumination light is emitted toward the wall portion through the reading port, the information code in which the wall portion is brought close to the wall portion is illuminated by the reflected light reflected by the wall portion. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the influence of mirror reflection caused by the illumination light on the reading of the information code while ensuring the necessary illuminance.

In the invention of claim 4, the protrusion length from one side edge portion to the protruding end portion is a distance suitable for imaging an information code displayed on the display surface of the object in contact with the protruding end portion. It is formed so as to have a length corresponding to. As a result, the information code suitable for reading can be imaged by directing the reading port toward the information code so that the protruding end portion is in contact with the display surface, so that the reading success rate of the information code can be increased.

In the invention of claim 5, the illumination unit includes first and second illumination units that irradiate the illumination light, and the image pickup unit collects incident light incident through a light receiving sensor and a reading port. An imaging lens for forming an image on the light receiving surface of the light receiving sensor is provided, and the imaging lens is arranged so as to be offset from the light receiving surface of the light receiving sensor in a direction away from the first illumination unit and the second illumination unit. Will be done. As a result, it becomes difficult for the first illumination unit and the second illumination unit to enter the folded field view (imaging range captured by being reflected by the display surface or the like) from the display surface or the like on which the information code is displayed. From this point as well, specular reflection caused by illumination light can be suppressed.

In the invention of claim 6, the reading port is provided with a protective member that protects the image pickup unit and the illumination unit, and the protection member transmits the first transmission unit through which the illumination light is transmitted and the reflected light from the information code. A second transparent portion is formed, and the housing is provided with a holding portion that holds the protective member so as to surround it from the outer surface side, and the holding portion has an exposure width that exposes the first transparent portion to the outer surface side. And the exposure width that exposes the second transmissive portion to the outer surface side are formed so as to be smaller than the width of the user's finger.

As a result, even if the user's finger touches the holding portion when gripping the housing, it becomes difficult for the finger to accidentally touch the first transmission portion or the second transmission portion, and the first transmission portion and the second transmission portion are less likely to be touched. Since dirt such as sebum is less likely to adhere to the portion, deterioration of reading performance due to dirt adhering to the protective member can be suppressed.

In the invention of claim 7, the reading port is provided with a protective member that protects the image pickup unit and the illumination unit, and the protective member surrounds the first transmission portion through which the illumination light is transmitted and the first transmission portion in an annular shape. The first annular portion projecting outward, the second transmitting portion through which the reflected light from the information code is transmitted, and the second annular portion projecting outward so as to surround the second transmitting portion in an annular shape are formed. It is formed.

As a result, even if the user's finger touches the first annular portion or the second annular portion when gripping the housing, it becomes difficult for the finger to accidentally touch the first transmissive portion or the second transmissive portion. Since dirt such as sebum is less likely to adhere to the first permeation portion and the second permeation portion, deterioration of reading performance due to dirt adhering to the protective member can be suppressed.

The invention according to claim 8 relates to a marker light irradiation unit that irradiates a marker light indicating an imaging field of view by the imaging unit, and whether or not the marker light is imaged in a predetermined state in the image captured by the imaging unit. A marker imaging determination unit for determination and a lighting control unit for controlling the illumination unit according to the determination result of the marker imaging determination unit are provided.

If the reading port is not directed to the display surface or the like to which the information code is attached, the irradiated marker light is not reflected by the display surface or the like, so that the marker light is not captured. That is, since it is not necessary to irradiate the illumination light when the marker light is not imaged, it is possible to suppress the irradiation of unnecessary illumination light by controlling the illumination unit according to the determination result of the marker imaging determination unit. ..

In the invention of claim 9, when the marker imaging determination unit determines that the marker imaging state is determined, the illumination control unit controls the illumination unit so that the illumination light is irradiated, and the marker imaging determination unit determines the marker imaging state. If it is determined that this is not the case, the illumination unit is controlled so as to stop the irradiation of the illumination light. As a result, on a screen or the like on which an information code is displayed, since the screen itself emits light, the reflected light of the marker light cannot be easily recognized and imaged, and irradiation of the illumination light is unnecessary in the first place. ON / OFF can be switched appropriately.

In the invention of claim 10, when the marker imaging determination unit determines that the marker imaging state is determined, the illumination control unit controls the illumination unit so that the illumination light is irradiated, and the marker imaging determination unit determines the marker imaging state. If it is determined that the lighting unit is not, the illumination unit is controlled so that the illumination light is irradiated in a darker state than in the case where it is determined that the marker is in the imaging state. As a result, it is possible to suppress the irradiation of unnecessarily bright illumination light.

In the invention of claim 11, the marker light irradiation unit irradiates the marker light when it is determined by the image change determination unit that the image captured by the image pickup unit has changed. As a result, when the optical information reader is placed on a desk or the like, that is, when it is not in use, the image captured by the imaging unit does not change and the marker light is not irradiated. Therefore, unnecessary illumination light is irradiated. It can be suppressed more reliably.

In the invention of claim 12, the marker imaging determination unit determines whether or not the marker light is in a marker imaging state in which the marker light is imaged in a predetermined state in a range of the captured image where the marker light may be imaged. To do. In this way, since the range in which the marker light is captured in the captured image is predetermined, the range for determining whether or not the captured image is in the marker imaging state can be limited, and the processing load required for the determination process or the like can be reduced. The processing speed can be improved.

According to the thirteenth aspect of the present invention, there is one decoding unit that performs decoding processing for decoding the information code of the captured image captured by the imaging unit, and one decoding unit because a plurality of information codes are simultaneously imaged. When a plurality of decoding results are obtained from the captured image, a selection unit for selecting the decoding result to be output is provided. Then, the selection unit selects the decoding result to be output based on whether or not the selection determination information registered in advance is included in the decoding result.

As a result, for example, when the information code to be read includes the selection determination information, the selection determination can be performed by selecting the decoding result including the selection determination information from the plurality of decoding results. It is possible to prevent the decoding result of the non-reading information code that does not include the information from being output. Further, for example, when the information code to be excluded from reading includes the selection determination information, the selection can be made by selecting the decoding result that does not include the selection determination information from the plurality of decoding results. It is possible to prevent the decoding result of the non-reading information code including the determination information from being output. That is, even when a plurality of decoding results are obtained because a plurality of information codes are simultaneously imaged, the decoding result to be output can be appropriately selected, and the information code read unintentionally can be selected. The output of the decoding result can be limited.

In the invention of claim 14, the selection determination information is at least one of a characteristic character string included in a predetermined URL and a characteristic character string included in a predetermined address. Therefore, for example, when a URL or an address is recorded in an information code that should be excluded from reading, it is possible to prevent the decoding result of the information code from being output, and the URL or address can be recorded in the information code that should be read. When the address is recorded, it is possible to prevent the decoding result that does not include the URL and the address from being output.

In the invention of claim 15, one decoding unit performs a decoding process for decoding an information code for an image captured by the imaging unit, and one decoding unit because a plurality of information codes are simultaneously imaged. When a plurality of decoding results are obtained from the captured image, a selection unit for selecting the decoding result to be output is provided. Then, the selection unit selects the decoding result to be output based on the code type of the information code that has been successfully decoded.

As a result, for example, if the information code to be read is a predetermined code type, the above-mentioned predetermined code can be selected by selecting the decoding result decoded from the information code of the above-mentioned predetermined code type from a plurality of decoding results. It is possible to prevent the decoding result of the information code not to be read, which is not the type, from being output. That is, even when a plurality of decoding results are obtained because a plurality of information codes are simultaneously imaged, the decoding result to be output can be appropriately selected, and the information code read unintentionally can be selected. The output of the decoding result can be limited.

In the invention of claim 16, a decoding unit that performs decoding processing for decoding an information code on an image captured by the imaging unit and a processing unit that performs predetermined processing using the decoding result by the decoding unit. And, when a plurality of decoding results can be obtained from one captured image by the decoding unit because a plurality of information codes are simultaneously imaged, the decoding result that once determines whether or not two or more same decoding results are obtained. The same difference determination unit and is provided. When it is determined that two or more same decoding results are obtained by the decoding result same / different determination unit, the processing unit performs predetermined processing on one of the two or more same decoding results.

As a result, for example, even when information codes of different code types in which the same data are recorded are simultaneously imaged, it is possible to prevent the same processing from being performed twice.

In the invention of claim 17, a storage unit is provided in which the decoding result of the predetermined processing performed by the processing unit is stored. Then, the processing unit determines that two or more same decoding results have been obtained by the decoding result same / different determination unit, and the decoding that matches the same decoding result based on the information stored in the storage unit. When the predetermined processing is not performed by the processing unit within the predetermined number of readings of the result, the predetermined processing is performed on the decoding result.

As a result, even if the same decoding result is read before, if the previous decoding result is not subjected to the predetermined processing by the processing unit within the predetermined reading number, that is, recently, the predetermined processing is performed. If it is not the decoding result used in, it is assumed that the user intentionally reads two or more information codes in which the same data is recorded, and the same decoding result can be used to perform the above-mentioned predetermined processing. ..

In the invention of claim 18, a storage unit is provided in which the decoding result by the decoding unit is stored together with the decoding time when the decoding process is completed. Then, the processing unit stores in the storage unit in association with the decoding results that match the same decoding results in the case where it is determined that two or more same decoding results are obtained by the decoding result same / different determination unit. When the elapsed time from the decoding time is longer than the predetermined time, the predetermined processing is performed on the decoding result.

As a result, even if the same decoding result is read before, if the elapsed time from the decoding time of the previous decoding result is longer than a predetermined time, that is, it is not the decoding result recently used for the predetermined processing. In this case, assuming that the user intentionally reads two or more information codes in which the same data is recorded, the same decoding result can be used to perform the above-mentioned predetermined processing.

In the invention of claim 19, the counting unit counts the number of times the information code successfully decoded by the decoding unit is removed from the imaging field of the imaging unit and reenters the imaging field as the number of times of imaging, and the processing unit performs the above-mentioned predetermined processing. A storage unit is provided in which the decoding result in which the above is performed is stored in association with the number of imaging times counted by the counting unit. Then, the processing unit stores in the storage unit in association with the decoding results that match the same decoding results in the case where it is determined that two or more same decoding results are obtained by the decoding result same / different determination unit. When the number of times of imaging to be performed exceeds a predetermined number of times, a predetermined process is performed on the above-mentioned decoding result.

As a result, in order to read two or more information codes in which the same data is intentionally recorded by the user, the same decoding is performed by repeating the imaging state in which the information code is put in the imaging field of view and the imaging state in which the information code is removed from the imaging field of view. The above-mentioned predetermined processing can be performed for each of the results.

In the invention of claim 20, for the information code determined by the decoding result same / different determination unit that two or more same decoding results are obtained, the time when the information code is removed from the imaging field of the imaging unit is the code exclusion time as the decoding result. A storage unit is provided which is associated with and stored in. Then, the processing unit stores in the storage unit in association with the decoding results that match the same decoding results in the case where it is determined that two or more same decoding results are obtained by the decoding result same / different determination unit. When the elapsed time from the code exclusion time to be performed exceeds a predetermined time, a predetermined process is performed on the above-mentioned decoding result.

As a result, in order to read two or more information codes in which the same data is intentionally recorded by the user, the information codes are removed from the imaging field of view for a certain period of time and then put back into the imaging field of view, so that the same decoding results are obtained. The above-mentioned predetermined processing can be performed.

In the invention of claim 21, a posture detection unit for detecting the posture of the housing is provided. Then, when the processing unit determines that two or more same decoding results are obtained by the decoding result same / different determination unit, the posture of the housing detected by the posture detection unit is in a predetermined posture state. In some cases, a predetermined process is performed on the above-mentioned decoding result.

As a result, in order to read two or more information codes in which the same data is intentionally recorded by the user, the housing is held so as to be in the predetermined posture state, and the same decoding result is obtained for each of the above predetermined states. Can be processed.

In the invention of claim 22, the same information code is used in a plurality of continuously captured images continuously captured by the imaging unit by the code image detecting unit that detects the code image for decoding the information code from the image captured by the imaging unit. The code image is detected, and the reading target determination unit determines whether or not the code image is a reading target according to the state in which the detected code image occupies the captured image. Then, when the decoding result is obtained by successfully decoding the code image determined to be the reading target by the reading target determination unit, the processing unit performs a predetermined process using this decoding result. Then, a predetermined notification is performed by the notification unit.

As a result, even if the optical information reader does not have a trigger switch or the like for instructing the decoding timing, the code image of the information code can be captured by pointing the reading port at the information code to be read by the user. When the state occupied in the image satisfies a predetermined condition, for example, when the range of the code image occupied in the captured image is equal to or larger than the predetermined range, it can be determined that the code image is the reading target. This is because the information code that the user intends to read tends to have a range of the code image occupied in the captured image, such as a predetermined range or more. Therefore, by performing a predetermined process using the decoding result obtained from the code image determined to be the reading target and performing a predetermined notification according to the success of the decoding, the trigger switch or the like is not used at all times. It is possible to realize an optical information reading device capable of aiming and reading an information code in the reading process to be performed.

In the invention of claim 23, the reading target determination unit is a code image in the imaging field of view even when a portion corresponding to a part of the code image detected by the code image detection unit is out of the imaging field of view of the imaging unit. When the state of the remaining portion satisfies a predetermined condition, it is determined that the code image is the reading target. As a result, even if a part of the information code that the user is trying to read is out of the imaging field of view, the code image is not immediately determined to be out of the reading target, so that the code image can be more accurately read. It can be determined whether or not it is a reading target.

In the invention of claim 24, if the decoding process of the code image when the reading target determination unit determines to be the reading target is not successful and the decoding process of the code image is successful after the determination, after the determination. A predetermined process is performed by the processing unit using the obtained decoding result, and a predetermined notification is performed by the notification unit. As a result, even if it can be determined that an information code-like image has been captured due to the surrounding environment such as lighting, but the code image is determined to be read without successful decoding, the surrounding environment thereafter. If the decoding of the code image is successful due to the change in the above, it is assumed that the decoding of the code image to be read is successful, and the predetermined processing and the predetermined notification can be performed at the success timing.

In the invention of claim 25, a decoding unit that performs decoding processing for decoding an information code for an image captured by the imaging unit, an output unit for outputting the decoding result decoded by the decoding unit, and an output unit. Is provided. Then, the output unit includes an image of one information code obtained by the decoding unit for a predetermined reading area provided so as to occupy a part of the captured image, and another information code. When the image of is not included, the decoding result of the above one information code is output.

As a result, even if a plurality of information codes are simultaneously imaged and the decoding results are obtained by the decoding unit, not only the decoding results of the information codes not included in the predetermined reading area are output, but also 2 Even if the above information code is included in the predetermined reading area, the decoding result will not be output. That is, even if a plurality of information codes are imaged so that they can be decoded, the decoding result of the information code is output only when only the image of the information code to be read is included in the predetermined reading area. , It is possible to limit the output of the decoding result of the information code read unintentionally, such as the decoding result of another information code captured while pointing the reading port at the information code to be read.

In the invention of claim 26, the output unit includes all the images of one information code for which the decoding result is obtained by the decoding unit with respect to the predetermined reading area, and the output unit is an image of another information code. When at least a part is not included, the decoding result of the above one information code is output.

As a result, for example, even if only a part of the image of the information code not to be read is included in the predetermined reading area while the reading port is directed to the information code to be read, the reading target is The decoding result of the external information code is not output. Further, even if all the images of the information code not to be read are included in the predetermined reading area, at least a part of the images of the information code to be read is included in the predetermined reading area. If so, each decoding result will not be output. Therefore, even when another information code is arranged near the information code to be read, it is possible to easily output the decoding result of the information code to be read.

In the invention of claim 27, the output unit includes an image of a specific pattern of one information code for which a decoding result has been obtained by the decoding unit for a predetermined reading area, and has a specific pattern of another information code. When the image of is not included, the decoding result of the above one information code is output.

As a result, it is possible to determine whether or not the image of the information code is included in the predetermined reading area based on the specific pattern of the information code that is easy to recognize, so that the determination can be made easily and accurately.

In the invention of claim 28, the marker light irradiation unit that irradiates the marker light toward the imaging field of view by the imaging unit, and the decoding unit that performs decoding processing for decoding the information code for the captured image captured by the imaging unit. And, it is determined whether or not the output unit for outputting the decoding result decoded by the decoding unit and the information code decoded by the decoding unit are located in the decoding target area corresponding to a part of the captured image. A code position determination unit is provided. Then, when the marker light is not imaged by the imaging unit, the output unit outputs the decoding result of the information code determined by the code position determination unit to be located in the decoding target area.

When a plurality of information codes including the information code to be read are displayed on the screen, the irradiated marker light is not reflected on the display screen that emits light by itself. Therefore, which information of the plurality of information codes captured by the reading device is used. There is a problem that it is not known whether the code is to be read. Therefore, when the marker light is not captured by the imaging unit, it is assumed that the information code displayed on the screen is being read, and the decoding result of the information code determined to be located in the decoding target area is output. , The decoding result of the information code outside the decoding target area is not output. That is, by holding the reading port of the reading device over the screen so that only the information code to be read is located in the decoding target area among the plurality of information codes displayed on the screen, the information code is displayed on the same screen. It is possible to output the decoding result of the information code to be read without outputting the decoding result of the information code of.

In the invention of claim 29, when one decoding result is obtained from one captured image by the decoding unit, the output unit does not need to determine whether or not the information code is the reading target. One decoding result is output regardless of whether or not the marker light is imaged.

This eliminates the need for processing for determining whether or not marker light is detected from the captured image, and can reduce the processing load on the output of the decoding result.

In the invention of claim 30, the output unit is an information code determined by the code position determination unit to be located in the decoding target area when the marker light is not imaged by the imaging unit, and is set in advance. Outputs the decoding result of the information code that is the code type.

As a result, even if only the information code not to be read is located in the decoding target area in the captured image when the reading port is held over the information code to be read, the code type of the information code not to be read is set in advance. By different from the code type, it is possible to prevent the decoding result of the information code not to be read from being output.

In the invention of claim 31, the marker light irradiation unit that irradiates the marker light toward the imaging field of view by the imaging unit and the decoding unit that performs decoding processing for decoding the information code for the captured image captured by the imaging unit. The marker irradiation state determination unit that determines whether or not the marker light is being irradiated toward the information code for which the decoding result has been obtained, and the marker irradiation state determination unit that is irradiating the marker light. Whether or not the output unit for outputting the decoding result of the information code determined to be and the decoding result obtained by the decoding unit are in the decoding result matching state that matches the decoding result previously output from the output unit. Each time the decoding result is output from the decoding result judgment unit and the output unit, the double-reading prevention setting is set to prevent the decoding result that matches the previously output decoding result from being output. A reading prevention setting unit is provided. Then, the double-reading prevention setting unit determines that the marker light is not irradiated toward the information code for which the decoding result is obtained by the marker irradiation state determination unit after the decoding result is output from the output unit. Then, the double-reading prevention setting is canceled. In addition, if the double-reading prevention setting is set by the double-reading prevention setting unit, the output unit excludes the decoding result determined by the decoding result judgment unit to be in the decoding result matching state, and twice. When the read prevention setting is canceled, even the decoding result determined by the decoding result determination unit to be in the decoding result matching state is output.

Conventionally, when reading a plurality of information codes in which the same decoding result is recorded in succession, a release operation for removing the information code from the imaging field of view is required in order to cancel the double-reading prevention function. As described above, in a reading device having an imaging unit having a large imaging field of view, there is a problem that the operation of the user required for the release operation becomes large. Therefore, if it is determined that the marker light is not radiated toward the information code after the decoding result is output, the read prevention setting is canceled twice so that the decoding result is output from the information code. Since the double-reading prevention setting is canceled by the operation of removing the marker light, the user's operation required for the cancellation operation can be reduced.

In the invention of claim 32, after the decoding result is output from the output unit, the double-reading prevention setting unit is in a state in which the marker light is irradiated toward the code peripheral area including the code area constituting the information code. Otherwise, if the marker irradiation state determination unit determines, the double-reading prevention setting is canceled.

If the double-reading prevention setting is canceled just because the marker light is removed from the information code that outputs the decoding result, the information code that was once removed from the marker light due to camera shake etc. is irradiated again, so the user does not intend to read it twice. May occur. Therefore, by canceling the double-reading prevention setting when the marker light is not radiated toward the code peripheral area based on the code peripheral area including the code area constituting the information code, camera shake, etc. It is possible to prevent the double-reading prevention setting from being accidentally canceled due to the above, and it is possible to improve the robustness against camera shake and the like.

In the invention of claim 33, the code peripheral region is set so that the size of the information code changes according to the size of the information code occupying the captured image.

If the size of the information code and the code peripheral area in the captured image becomes large, the user's operation required for the operation of removing the marker light from the code peripheral area may become large. Therefore, for example, when the information code is imaged relatively large, the size of the code peripheral area is set to be relatively small, and the code peripheral area is set according to the size of the information code occupying the captured image. By changing the size, it is possible to prevent the user's movement required for the release operation from becoming large.

In the invention of claim 34, a decoding unit that performs decoding processing for decoding an information code for an image captured by the imaging unit, an output unit for outputting the decoding result decoded by the decoding unit, and an output unit. An image state determination unit for determining whether or not a partial image matching state in which the image is considered to have not changed is provided for a partial image corresponding to a part of the image captured by the imaging unit is provided. Then, when the decoding result is output by the output unit, the decoding unit does not perform the decoding process until the image state determination unit determines that a part of the image matches.

Therefore, when the decoding result is output, the decoding process is not performed unless it is considered that a part of the image has changed. Therefore, the decoding result is performed for each image capture to prevent double reading. There is no need to perform the process of comparing. As a result, it is possible to reduce the processing load and the processing time for preventing double reading and the like.

As in the invention of claim 35, the range occupied by the captured image may be set in the central portion of the captured image.

As in the invention of claim 36, the range occupied by the captured image may be set based on the position of the marker light in the captured image.

In the invention of claim 37, the range occupied by the captured image of some images is set based on the information code that was successfully decoded last time. As a result, by setting the range of a part of the image in the captured image based on the position of the information code that was successfully decoded last time, the part of the image changes based on the brightness of each cell constituting the information code. Since it can be determined whether or not the image is present, the determination accuracy can be improved.

In the invention of claim 38, a protective member for elastically sandwiching the edge portion constituting the reading port from both the outside and the inside is provided, and the protective member covers the outside of the edge portion. It has a protective portion, an inner protective portion that covers the inside of the edge portion, and a connecting portion that elastically connects the outer protective portion and the inner protective portion. Then, on the outside of the edge portion, an adhesive portion to which the outer protective portion is adhered and a protruding portion located on the tip side of the adhesive portion and protruding from the adhesive portion are provided, and the outer protective portion is adhered. It is formed so as to have a portion to be adhered to the portion and a thin-walled facing portion facing the protruding portion when the portion to be adhered and the bonded portion are adhered to each other.

As a result, when the edge portion constituting the reading port is protected by the protective member, the edge portion is inserted between the outer protective portion and the inner protective portion so that the bonded portion and the protruding portion are in contact with each other. By further pushing the member, the bonded portion gets over the protruding portion and then is bonded to the bonded portion. In this way, the bonded portion is not adhered to the bonded portion until it gets over the protruding portion, so that even in the assembling work in which the protective member is pressed into the edge portion, the bonded portion is adhered in the middle of pushing. Since there is no such thing, the assembly work can be easily carried out.

In the invention of claim 39, since the protruding portion is formed so that the protruding height becomes higher as it approaches the bonded portion, the bonded portion can easily get over the protruding portion, and the assembling work is further facilitated. Can be achieved.

In the invention of claim 40, the protruding portion is formed so that the end face on the adhesive portion side is close to perpendicular to the assembling direction in which the protective member is assembled to the edge portion. As a result, even if the protective member tries to come off from the bonded edge portion, the bonded portion hits the end surface of the protruding portion on the adhesive portion side and is difficult to come off, so that the protective member can be firmly assembled to the edge portion.

In the invention of claim 41, inside the edge portion, a second adhesive portion to which the inner protective portion is adhered and a second adhesive portion located on the tip side of the second adhesive portion and projecting from the second adhesive portion. A protruding portion is provided, and the inner protective portion is a thin wall that faces the second protruding portion when the second bonded portion to be bonded to the second bonded portion and the second bonded portion and the second bonded portion are bonded to each other. It is formed so as to have a second opposed portion having a shape.

As a result, it is possible to easily carry out the assembling work even if the protective member adheres not only to the outside of the edge but also to the inside in order to increase the adhesive force.

It is sectional drawing which shows the structural outline of the optical information reading apparatus which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a top view explaining the state which gripped the grip part. It is a side view explaining the state which gripped the grip part. FIG. 4A is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing an enlarged cross section of X1-X1 of FIG. 1, and FIG. 4B is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing an enlarged cross section of X2-X2 of FIG. FIG. 5 is a block diagram schematically illustrating an electrical configuration of the optical information reader of FIG. 1. FIG. 6A is an explanatory view showing a state in which the first opening area of the reading port is directed to the barcode, and FIG. 6B is an explanatory view showing a state in which the first opening area of the reading port is directed to the QR code. It is explanatory drawing which shows the state. It is explanatory drawing explaining the shape of the vicinity of the reading port of the optical information reading apparatus which concerns on 1st modification of 1st Embodiment. FIG. 8 (A) is an explanatory diagram for explaining the shape of the vicinity of the reading port of the optical information reading device according to the second modification of the first embodiment, and FIG. 8 (B) is the first embodiment of the first embodiment. 3 It is explanatory drawing explaining the shape of the vicinity of the reading port of the optical information reading apparatus which concerns on a modification. It is a side view which shows the optical information reading apparatus which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing explaining the shape of the vicinity of the reading port of FIG. It is explanatory drawing explaining the shape of the vicinity of the reading port of the optical information reading apparatus which concerns on 1st modification of 2nd Embodiment. FIG. 12 (A) is an explanatory diagram for explaining the shape of the vicinity of the reading port of the optical information reading device according to the second modification of the second embodiment, and FIG. 12 (B) is the second embodiment of the second embodiment. 3 It is explanatory drawing explaining the shape of the vicinity of the reading port of the optical information reading apparatus which concerns on a modification. FIG. 13 (A) is an explanatory diagram for explaining the shape of the vicinity of the reading port of the optical information reading device according to the fourth modification of the second embodiment, and FIG. 13 (B) is the second embodiment. 5 It is explanatory drawing explaining the shape of the vicinity of the reading port of the optical information reading apparatus which concerns on 5th modification. FIG. 14 (A) is an explanatory diagram for explaining the shape of the vicinity of the reading port of the optical information reading device according to the sixth modification of the second embodiment, and FIG. 14 (B) is the second embodiment. 7 It is explanatory drawing explaining the shape of the vicinity of the reading port of the optical information reading apparatus which concerns on a modification. It is sectional drawing which shows the structural outline of the optical information reading apparatus which concerns on 3rd Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing explaining the structural outline of the marker light irradiation part in the optical information reading apparatus which concerns on 4th Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the positional relationship between a marker light, an imaging field of view, and illumination light. It is a side view which shows the optical information reading apparatus which concerns on 5th Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing explaining the shape near the reading port of FIG. FIG. 20 (A) is an explanatory diagram for explaining the shape of the vicinity of the wall portion of the optical information reading device according to the first modification of the fifth embodiment, and FIG. 20 (B) is the fifth embodiment of the fifth embodiment. 2 It is explanatory drawing explaining the shape of the vicinity of the wall part of the optical information reading apparatus which concerns on a modification. 21 (A) is an explanatory view for explaining the shape of the vicinity of the wall portion of the optical information reading device according to the third modification of the fifth embodiment, and FIG. 21 (B) is the fifth embodiment of the fifth embodiment. 4 It is explanatory drawing explaining the shape of the vicinity of the wall part of the optical information reading device which concerns on the modification, and FIG. 21C is the wall part of the optical information reading device which concerns on the 5th modification of the 5th Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing explaining the shape of the vicinity. It is explanatory drawing explaining the shape of the vicinity of the wall part of the optical information reading apparatus which concerns on 6th modification of 5th Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the main part of the optical information reading apparatus which concerns on 7th Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the main part of the optical information reading apparatus which concerns on 1st modification of 7th Embodiment. It is a perspective view which shows the optical information reading apparatus which concerns on 8th Embodiment. It is a side view of the optical information reading device of FIG. It is a bottom view of the optical information reader of FIG. 25. It is explanatory drawing explaining the state which the protection plate is held by the holding part. FIG. 29 (A) is an explanatory diagram showing the degree of contact of the finger when the exposure width and the exposure depth are changed, and FIG. 29 (B) is an explanatory diagram for explaining the exposure width and the exposure depth. .. It is explanatory drawing which shows the main part of the optical information reading apparatus which concerns on 1st modification of 8th Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the main part of the optical information reading apparatus which concerns on 2nd modification of 8th Embodiment. 32 (A) is an explanatory view showing a main part of the optical information reading device according to the third modification of the eighth embodiment, and FIG. 32 (B) is an X3-X3 cross section of FIG. 32 (A). Is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing. It is a flowchart which illustrates the flow of the reading process in 9th Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the captured image which the bar code and the QR code were simultaneously imaged at the time of reading in the tenth embodiment. It is a flowchart which illustrates the flow of the reading process in 10th Embodiment. It is a flowchart which illustrates the flow of the reading process in 11th Embodiment. It is a flowchart which illustrates the flow of the reading process in 1st modification of 11th Embodiment. It is a flowchart which illustrates the flow of the reading process in the 2nd modification of 11th Embodiment. It is a flowchart which illustrates the flow of the reading process in the 3rd modification of 11th Embodiment. It is a flowchart which illustrates the flow of the reading process in the 4th modification of 11th Embodiment. It is a flowchart which illustrates the flow of the reading process in 12th Embodiment. FIG. 42 (A) is an explanatory diagram for explaining a continuously captured image in which a decodeable code image is detected, and FIG. 42 (A) shows a state in which the range of the code image occupied in the captured image is less than a predetermined range, and FIG. 42 (B) shows. Indicates a state in which the range of the code image occupied in the captured image is larger than that of FIG. 42 (A) but less than the predetermined range, and FIG. 42 (C) shows that the range of the code image occupied in the captured image is the above. Indicates a state of being above a predetermined range. FIG. 43 (A) is an explanatory diagram for explaining a continuously captured image in which a code image is detected, FIG. 43 (A) shows a state in which the range of the code image occupied in the captured image is less than a predetermined range, and FIG. 43 (B) is an image capture. A state in which the range of the code image occupied in the image is larger than that of FIG. 43 (A) but less than the predetermined range is shown, and FIG. 43 (C) shows that the rest of the code image in the undecodable captured image is the above. Indicates a state of being above a predetermined range. It is a flowchart which illustrates the flow of the reading process in the 1st modification of 12th Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing explaining the continuously captured image in which a code image was detected, and FIG. 45 (A) shows the state that the range of the code image occupied in the captured image is less than a predetermined range, and decoding has failed. 45 (B) shows a state in which the range of the code image occupied in the captured image is larger than that of FIG. 45 (A) but less than the above-mentioned predetermined range, and decoding fails. FIG. 45 (C) shows. , The range of the code image occupied in the captured image is equal to or more than the above-mentioned predetermined range and decoding has failed. FIG. 45 (D) shows that the range of the code image occupied in the captured image is less than the above-mentioned predetermined range. Indicates the state in which decoding is successful. It is explanatory drawing explaining the state which three bar codes are displayed on the screen side by side. It is a flowchart which illustrates the flow of the reading process in 13th Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing explaining the positional relationship between a captured image and a reading area. It is explanatory drawing explaining the state which includes the image of the information code of a reading target and a part of the image of the information code which is not a reading target in a reading area. It is explanatory drawing explaining the single code imaging state in which only the image of the information code to be read is included in the reading area. It is explanatory drawing explaining the state which includes the image of all the specific patterns of the information code to be read, and the image of a part of a specific pattern of other information codes in a reading area. It is explanatory drawing explaining the positional relationship between the optical information reading apparatus which concerns on 14th Embodiment, and a decoding target area. It is explanatory drawing explaining the captured image taken in the state shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which illustrates the flow of the reading process in 14th Embodiment. It is a flowchart which illustrates the flow of the reading process in 15th Embodiment. FIG. 56 (A) is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which the marker light is irradiated to the QR code Cf, and FIG. 56 (B) is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which the marker light deviates from the QR code Cf. 56 (C) is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which the QR code Cg is irradiated with the marker light. It is a flowchart which illustrates the flow of the reading process in 16th Embodiment. FIG. 58 (A) is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which the marker light is irradiated to the cord region, and FIG. 58 (B) is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which the marker light is irradiated to the cord peripheral region. FIG. 58 (C) is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which the marker light is out of the cord peripheral region. FIG. 59 (A) is an explanatory diagram for explaining a code peripheral region when the size of the information code occupying the captured image is large, and FIG. 59 (B) is an explanatory diagram showing the code peripheral region when the size of the information code occupying the captured image is small. It is explanatory drawing explaining the code peripheral area in the case of. It is explanatory drawing explaining the table which the code ratio and the peripheral distance are related. It is a timing chart explaining the conventional reading cycle. It is explanatory drawing explaining the position of a part image with respect to the captured image in 17th Embodiment, FIG. 62 (A) shows the captured image, and FIG. 62 (B) is with respect to the captured image of FIG. 62 (A). Shows some images to be set. It is a flowchart which illustrates the flow of the reading process in 17th Embodiment. It is a timing chart explaining the reading cycle in 17th Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing explaining the position of a part image set with respect to the position of the marker light in the captured image. It is a side view which shows the optical information reading apparatus which concerns on 18th Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing explaining the assembly of the protection member with respect to the edge part, FIG. 67A shows the state which the edge part is inserted between the outer protection part and the inner protection part, and FIG. The state in which the bonded portion has passed over the protruding portion is shown, and FIG. 67 (C) shows the state in which the bonded portion is adhered to the bonded portion. It is explanatory drawing which shows the main part of the optical information reading apparatus which concerns on the modification of 18th Embodiment.

[First Embodiment]
Hereinafter, the first embodiment embodying the optical information reading device according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
The optical information reading device 10 according to the present embodiment is an information code that optically and non-contactly reads an information code such as a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code displayed on a display surface of an object to be read. It is configured as a reader. Here, as the one-dimensional code, for example, a so-called bar code composed of JAN code, EAN, UPC, ITF code, CODE39, CODE128, NW-7, etc. is assumed. Further, as the two-dimensional code, for example, a square information code such as a QR code, a data matrix code, a maxi code, or an Aztec code is assumed.

As shown in FIG. 1, the optical information reading device 10 has an outer shell formed by a housing 11 formed by assembling an upper case 11a and a lower case 11b made of a synthetic resin such as ABS resin, and the housing 11 A circuit unit 20a made of various electric parts and the like is mounted and housed on a circuit board 20 and the like. The housing 11 is integrally and continuously formed with the reading unit 12 on which the reading port 50 is formed, and is gripped by the user when the reading port 50 is directed toward the information code. It includes a grip portion 13. The grip portion 13 is a body portion formed so as to be easily gripped by the user, and has a longitudinal LT as shown in FIG.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the reading unit 12 is integrally and continuously from the end portion 13 _TIP (that is, the end portion on the tip end side) on one side of the longitudinal LT of the grip portion 13. The extension end portion 12a extending diagonally downward while being slightly curved from the direction LT is provided. Further, the extending end portion 12a is provided with a reading port 50 as an optical passage for reading the information code. In this way, the reading unit 12 is integrally connected to the gripping unit 13. That is, when viewed from the lateral direction, the housing 11 is formed in a neck-bent shape in which the required portion on the tip end side where the reading port 50 is formed is greatly tilted forward diagonally downward, as shown in FIG. ..
Here, diagonally downward means having an oblique angle θ with respect to the longitudinal direction LT, and downward means when the user grips the grip portion 13 in a normal gripping method for reading a code ( (See FIGS. 2 and 3), the reading unit 12 points in the downward direction.
The angle of bending diagonally downward is set to a desired value capable of ensuring the required intensity of the illumination light with respect to the longitudinal LT and suppressing specular reflection caused by the illumination light. As a result, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the information code C displayed on the display surface R of the object is displayed in a state where the user grips the grip portion 13 from the upper case 11a side so as to be sandwiched between the fingers. It makes it easier to point the reading port 50. Further, a cable mounting portion 14 is formed on the other end side of the housing 11 (the other side (hand side) of the grip portion 13 in the longitudinal direction LT).
When the housing 11 is formed of, for example, a resin material into a tubular shape, the housing 11 is located on the tip side of the housing 11 from the portion corresponding to the tip end 13 _TIP of the longitudinal LT of the grip portion 13. The portion (that is, the tubular portion corresponding to the reading portion 12) is curved along the diagonally downward direction, that is, the entire portion is curved and processed so as to form a housing 11 bent in a dogleg shape. You may. Further, the grip portion 13 and the reading portion 12 may be formed as linear tubular members, and they may be connected (connected) to each other so as to form the above-mentioned "V" -shaped housing 11. .. The joint between the grip portion 13 and the reading portion 12 may have a structure that is gradually curved as in the embodiment (a "dogleg" shape having a rounded curved portion MG), or a mutual structure. Cylindrical members (13, 12) may be connected (connected) so as to have an unrounded bend that intersects linearly at an obtuse angle with each other.

As shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, at the extending end portion 12a of the reading portion 12, the peripheral edge 51 constituting the reading port 50 is the farthest (that is, the farthest) from the grip portion 13 in the longitudinal direction LT. The one side edge 52 (located on the tip side) is the lower bottom, and the other side edge 53, which is the edge facing the one side edge 52 and is shorter than the one side edge 52, is the upper bottom. It is formed in a substantially trapezoidal shape. More specifically, the peripheral edge 51 is formed in a substantially isosceles trapezoidal shape so that the legs 54 and 55 have symmetrical shapes.

By opening the reading port 50 in this way, the opening region (hereinafter, also referred to as the first opening region S1) that is long in one direction near the one-side edge portion 52 is an information code that is long in one direction, that is, one-dimensional. It can be used as an opening area for reading the code. Further, a rectangular opening region (hereinafter, also referred to as a second opening region S2) having a part of the one side edge portion 52 and the other side edge portion 53 as opposite sides is defined as a square information code, that is, two-dimensional. It can be used as an opening area for reading the code.

In particular, in the present embodiment, the one side edge portion 52 is provided with a wall portion 56 that projects in a thin plate shape along the diagonally downward portion. In this wall portion 56, only one side edge portion 52 of the peripheral edge 51 is projected obliquely downward with its thickness, and the protrusion length H from the one side edge portion 52 to the protruding end portion 56a is the protruding end portion 56a. Is formed so as to have a length corresponding to a distance suitable for imaging of the information code C displayed on the display surface R in contact with the above. Specifically, the wall portion 56 has, for example, such that the protruding length H becomes the best focus or approaches the best focus with respect to the imaging of the information code C displayed on the display surface R in which the protruding end portion 56a is in contact. , Is formed.
The wall portion 56 does not necessarily have to follow the diagonally downward direction, and conforms to the diagonally downward direction, and if the conditions relating to the length are satisfied, the angle of the diagonally downward direction with respect to the longitudinal direction is satisfied. May be a wall structure in which a predetermined value is adjusted along the longitudinal direction.

In the reading port 50 formed in this way, with the grip portion 13 gripped from the upper case 11a side, as shown in FIG. 1, the protruding end portion 56a of the wall portion 56 is viewed from the user with the information code C. By contacting the position of the display surface R near the back side of the above, the reflected light from the information code C can be taken in.

Next, the electrical configuration of the optical information reading device 10 will be described with reference to the drawings.
As shown in FIGS. 1 and 5, the circuit unit 20a housed in the housing 11 mainly includes an optical system such as an illumination light source 21, a light receiving sensor 28, and an imaging lens 27, a memory 35, and a control circuit 40. It is equipped with a microcomputer (hereinafter referred to as "microcomputer") system.

The optical system is divided into a floodlight optical system and a light receiving optical system. The illumination light source 21 constituting the floodlight optical system functions as an illumination unit capable of emitting illumination light Lf, and is composed of, for example, a red LED 21a and a lens 21b provided on the emission side of the LED 21a. As can be seen from the illumination optical axis L1 shown in FIG. 1, the illumination light source 21 is arranged so as to irradiate the illumination light Lf so as to be inclined with respect to the imaging optical axis L2. This is because if the illumination light Lf is irradiated parallel to the imaging optical axis L2, specular reflection occurs. Note that FIG. 5 conceptually shows an example of irradiating the illumination light Lf through the reading port 50 toward the display surface R on which the information code C is displayed.

The light receiving optical system is composed of a light receiving sensor 28, an imaging lens 27, a reflecting mirror (not shown), and the like. The light receiving sensor 28 is configured as an area sensor in which light receiving elements, which are solid-state imaging elements such as C-MOS and CCD, are arranged two-dimensionally, and has a light receiving surface 28a as a rectangular light receiving region. It is configured. The light receiving sensor 28 is mounted on the circuit board 20 so as to be able to receive the incident light incident through the reading port 50, the protective plate 26, and the imaging lens 27.

The imaging lens 27 functions as an imaging optical system capable of condensing incident light incident from the outside through the reading port 50 and forming an image on the light receiving surface 28a of the light receiving sensor 28. In the present embodiment, after the illumination light Lf emitted from the illumination light source 21 is reflected by an information code or the like, the reflected light Lr is condensed by the imaging lens 27, and a code image or the like is formed on the light receiving surface 28a of the light receiving sensor 28. Is imaged. In the present embodiment, in order to suppress the influence of specular reflection, the imaging lens 27 does not have the imaging optical axis L2 orthogonal to the display surface R when the protruding end portion 56a is brought into contact with the display surface R. It is tilted so that the tilt angle θ between the assumed display surface R and the imaging optical axis L2 is, for example, about 45 ° to 70 °. In particular, the imaging lens 27 has, as shown in FIG. 4B,
The imaging field of view AR in the X2-X2 cross section of FIG. 1 of the light receiving sensor 28 having the rectangular light receiving surface 28a has a trapezoidal shape with a gap of about 5 mm from the peripheral edge 51 and slightly narrower than the peripheral edge 51. Have been placed. Then, the imaging lens 27 prevents the illumination light source 21 from entering the folded field of view of the imaging system from the display surface R (the imaging range imaged by being reflected by the display surface R). The light receiving surface of the light receiving sensor 28 is arranged so as to be eccentric by shifting in a direction away from the illumination light source 21 (left direction in FIG. 1). The light receiving sensor 28, the imaging lens 27, and the like can correspond to an example of the “imaging unit”.

The microcomputer system includes an amplifier circuit 31, an A / D conversion circuit 33, a memory 35, an address generation circuit 36, a synchronization signal generation circuit 38, a control circuit 40, a trigger switch 42, a buzzer 44, a vibrator 45, a light emitting unit 46, and a communication interface 48. It is composed of etc. As the name implies, this microcomputer system is composed mainly of a control circuit 40 and a memory 35 that can function as a microcomputer (information processing device), and hardware the image signal of the information code captured by the above-mentioned optical system. It can process signals in terms of hardware and software. The control circuit 40 also controls the entire system of the optical information reading device 10.

The image signal (analog signal) output from the light receiving sensor 28 of the optical system is amplified by a predetermined gain by being input to the amplifier circuit 31, and then input to the A / D conversion circuit 33 from the analog signal. Converted to a digital signal. Then, when the digitized image signal, that is, image data (image information) is input to the memory 35, it is stored in the image data storage area. The synchronization signal generation circuit 38 is configured to be capable of generating a synchronization signal for the light receiving sensor 28 and the address generation circuit 36, and the address generation circuit 36 is based on the synchronization signal supplied from the synchronization signal generation circuit 38. Therefore, the storage address of the image data stored in the memory 35 can be generated.

The memory 35 is a semiconductor memory device, and for example, a RAM (DRAM, SRAM, etc.) or a ROM (EPROM, EEPROM, etc.) corresponds to this. In addition to the image data storage area described above, the RAM of the memory 35 is configured to be able to secure a work area and a read condition table used by the control circuit 40 at each process such as arithmetic operation and logical operation. .. Further, the ROM stores in advance a system program or the like capable of controlling each hardware such as the illumination light source 21 and the light receiving sensor 28.

The control circuit 40 is composed of a computer system capable of controlling the entire optical information reading device 10, includes a CPU, a system bus, an input / output interface, and the like, and constitutes an information processing device together with a memory 35. Therefore, the control circuit 40 has an information processing function provided by the information processing device. The control circuit 40 is configured to be connectable to various input / output devices (peripheral devices) via a built-in input / output interface. In the case of this embodiment, the trigger switch 42, the buzzer 44, the vibrator 45, and light emission. The unit 46, the communication interface 48, and the like are connected. Thereby, for example, monitoring and management of the trigger switch 42, on / off of the sound of the buzzer 44 capable of generating a beep sound or an alarm sound, and a vibrator 45 capable of generating vibration that can be transmitted to the user of the optical information reading device 10. The control circuit 40 performs drive control, lighting of the light emitting unit 46, non-lighting, and communication control of the communication interface 48 that enables communication with an external device.

Next, a case where the information code C is read by using the optical information reading device 10 configured as described above will be described with reference to FIG.
When reading an information code such as a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code, the control circuit 40 (that is, the computer system described above) performs the reading process as follows.

When reading the barcode C1 as a one-dimensional code long in one direction, the protruding end portion 56a of the wall portion 56 is brought into contact with the position of the display surface R near the back side of the barcode C1 to be brought into contact with FIG. 6 (A). ), The barcode C1 can be imaged through the first opening region S1. Further, even when the QR code C2 is read as a two-dimensional code, the protruding end portion 56a of the wall portion 56 is brought into contact with the position of the display surface R near the back side of the QR code C2 to be shown in FIG. 6 (B). As described above, the QR code C2 can be imaged through the second opening region S2.

In this way, when a predetermined operation is performed on the trigger switch 42 with the protruding end portion 56a of the wall portion 56 in contact with the position of the display surface R near the back side of the information code C, the illumination light source Illumination light Lf is emitted from 21 through the reading port 50, and the reflected light Lr reflected by the information code C is received by the light receiving sensor 28 via the reading port 50. When the illumination light Lf is irradiated in this way, the light does not leak because the protruding end portion 56a of the wall portion 56 is in contact with the display surface R, so that the external light from the back side as seen from the user. Is not imaged, and a person in the direction in which the reading port 50 is directed (the direction corresponding to the back side) does not feel glare due to the illumination light Lf. On the other hand, since the wall portion 56 is not provided on the front side of the reading port 50, the visibility of the information code C is not impaired.

When the information code C is imaged and image data is generated based on the signal output from the light receiving sensor 28 in response to the light reception, the code image corresponding to the information code C among the image data is known. Decoding processing (reading processing) is performed. By this process, the character data or the like encoded as the information code C is decoded.

When this decoding is successful, at least one of the ringing of the buzzer 44, the vibration of the vibrator 45, the light emission of the light emitting unit 46, and the like is performed as the processing of the notification unit for notifying the success of the decoding. If the decoding is successful based on the image data generated based on a part of the signals output from the light receiving sensor 28, the remaining signals are unnecessary. In this case, by interrupting the processing after the generation of the image data based on the remaining signal, not only the processing load related to decoding (optical reading) can be reduced, but also the processing time can be shortened.

As described above, in the optical information reading device 10 according to the present embodiment, the housing 11 emits the illumination light Lf from the illumination light source 21 and emits the light from the information code C into the housing 11. It includes a reading unit 12 in which a reading port 50 to be introduced is formed, and a gripping unit 13 that is gripped when the reading port 50 is directed toward the information code C. The reading unit 12 is gently curved from the tip of the grip portion 13 on one side in the longitudinal direction LT, extends continuously and diagonally downward, and is integrally connected to the grip portion 13. The reading port 50 is located at the extending end 12a of the reading unit 12. Of the peripheral edge 51 of the reading port 50, the one side edge portion 52 farthest from the grip portion 13 (that is, the farthest and located on the tip side) is provided with a wall portion 56 projecting diagonally downward.

As a result, when the information code C is imaged with the reading port 50 away from the display surface R, the wall portion 56 is located behind the information code C when viewed from the user who grips the grip portion 13. Since the user himself / herself is located on the front side of the information code C, it is possible to make it difficult to image the external light reflected by the information code C or the like without impairing the visibility of the information code C. Further, since the reflected light from the information code C or the like by the illumination light Lf passing through the reading port 50 is less likely to be reflected by the wall portion 56 to the back side of the information code C, the direction in which the reading port 50 is directed (the back side). It is possible to suppress the glare felt by a person in the direction corresponding to). In particular, since the protruding end portion 56a, which is the tip end side of the wall portion 56, is brought into contact with the display surface R, the influence of external light and the glare felt by surrounding people can be suppressed more reliably. Therefore, when reading the information code C, it is possible to realize an optical information reading device 10 capable of suppressing the influence of external light and the glare felt by surrounding people without impairing the visibility of the information code C. ..

In particular, the wall portion 56 has a protruding length H from the one side edge portion 52 to the protruding end portion 56a at a distance suitable for imaging the information code C displayed on the display surface R in which the protruding end portion 56a is in contact. It is formed so as to have a corresponding length. As a result, the information code C suitable for reading can be imaged by directing the reading port 50 toward the information code C so that the protruding end portion 56a is in contact with the display surface R, so that the reading success rate of the information code C is increased. be able to.

Further, since the imaging lens 27 is arranged so as to be displaced from the light receiving surface of the light receiving sensor 28 in a direction away from the illumination light source 21, it becomes difficult for the illumination light source 21 to enter the folded field from the display surface R. Therefore, it is possible to suppress specular reflection caused by illumination light.

As a first modification of the first embodiment, the one side edge portion 52 and the wall portion 56 are formed so as to have an arc shape when the reading port 50 is viewed in a plan view, as illustrated in FIG. May be good. That is, the peripheral edge 51 may be formed so that at least a part thereof has an arc shape when the reading port 50 is viewed in a plan view.

Further, as a second modification of the first embodiment, in the imaging lens 27 and the like, the imaging field AR at the position corresponding to the X2-X2 cross section of FIG. 1 is a wall as illustrated in FIG. 8 (A). It may be arranged so that the inner surface of the portion 56 is the imaging range. Further, as a third modification of the first embodiment, the imaging lens 27 or the like is at a position corresponding to the X2-X2 cross section of FIG. 1 even when the wall portion 56 is formed in an arc shape as described above. As illustrated in FIG. 8B, the imaging field AR may be arranged so that at least a part of the inner surface of the arcuate wall portion 56 is the imaging range.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, the optical information reading device according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10.
In the second embodiment, the shape of the reading unit 12 in the vicinity of the reading port 50 is mainly different from that of the first embodiment. Therefore, the same reference numerals are given to the components substantially the same as those in the first embodiment, and the description thereof will be omitted.

As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, in the present embodiment, the peripheral edge 51 of the reading port 50 is provided with a pair of facing portions 57a and 57b facing each other via the reading port 50 and connected to the wall portion 56, respectively. There is. The facing portion 57a projects the leg 54 diagonally downward with its thickness, and the protrusion length becomes longer as it gets closer to the one side edge portion 52, and the protrusion length becomes the wall portion 56 in the vicinity of the one side edge portion 52. It is formed so as to be equal to the protrusion length H of. Further, in the facing portion 57b, the leg 55 is projected diagonally downward with its thickness, and the protruding length becomes longer as it gets closer to the one side edge portion 52, and the protruding length becomes a wall in the vicinity of the one side edge portion 52. It is formed so as to be equal to the protruding length H of the portion 56. That is, in the present embodiment, the wall portion having a substantially U-shaped cross section is formed so as to project diagonally downward from the peripheral edge 51. In particular, as shown in FIG. 9, the facing portions 57a and 57b are symmetrically formed so that the width becomes narrower toward the protruding end side.

By providing the wall portion 56 and the pair of facing portions 57a and 57b in this way, the wall portion 56 is reinforced by utilizing the pair of facing portions 57a and 57b, and only the influence of the external light from the back side is obtained. It is also possible to suppress the influence of external light from the left and right directions.

As a first modification of the second embodiment, the pair of facing portions 57a and 57b are substantially parallel to each other when the reading port 50 is formed so as to open in a square shape, as illustrated in FIG. It may be formed so as to be.

Further, as a second modification of the second embodiment, in a configuration in which a pair of facing portions 57a and 57b are arranged via a substantially trapezoidal reading port 50, the imaging lens 27 and the like are X2-X2 in FIG. The imaging field of view AR at a position corresponding to the cross section may be arranged so that the inner surface of the wall portion 56 is the imaging range, as illustrated in FIG. 12 (A). Further, as a third modification of the second embodiment, in a configuration in which a pair of facing portions 57a and 57b are arranged via a rectangular reading port 50, the imaging lens 27 and the like have an X2-X2 cross section of FIG. The imaging field of view AR at the position corresponding to may be arranged so that the inner surface of the wall portion 56 is the imaging range as illustrated in FIG. 12 (B).

Further, as a fourth modification of the second embodiment, the one side edge portion 52 and the wall portion 56 have an arc shape when the reading port 50 is viewed in a plan view, as illustrated in FIG. 13 (A). May be formed in. That is, the peripheral edge 51 may be formed so that at least a part thereof has an arc shape when the reading port 50 is viewed in a plan view. Further, as a fifth modification of the second embodiment, the pair of facing portions 57a and 57b are formed in an arc shape as described above when the wall portions 56 are formed in an arc shape as illustrated in FIG. 13B. It may be formed so as to be substantially parallel to each other.

Further, as a sixth modification of the second embodiment, the imaging lens 27 and the like have the X2-X2 cross section of FIG. 1 even when the one side edge portion 52 and the wall portion 56 are formed in an arc shape as described above. As illustrated in FIG. 14A, the imaging field of view AR at the position corresponding to the above may be arranged so that the inner surface of the arcuate wall portion 56 is the imaging range. Further, as a seventh modification of the second embodiment, in the imaging lens 27 and the like, as described above, the one side edge portion 52 and the wall portion 56 are formed in an arc shape, and the pair of facing portions 57a and 57b are mutually formed. Even when the lenses are formed so as to be substantially parallel, the imaging field of view AR at the position corresponding to the X2-X2 cross section of FIG. 1 covers the inner surface of the arcuate wall portion 56 as illustrated in FIG. 14 (B). It may be arranged so as to cover the imaging range.

[Third Embodiment]
Next, the optical information reading device according to the third embodiment of the present invention will be described below.
In the third embodiment, the irradiation direction of the illumination light Lf emitted from the illumination light source 21 is mainly different from that of the first embodiment. Therefore, the same reference numerals are given to the components substantially the same as those in the first embodiment, and the description thereof will be omitted.

When the angle of the illumination light Lf with respect to the display surface R, that is, the angle of inclination between the display surface R and the illumination light axis L1 is close to 90 °, the specular reflection caused by the illumination light Lf tends to affect the reading. Become. On the other hand, if the angle in the irradiation direction is simply reduced, it becomes difficult for the illumination light Lf to irradiate the information code C with the reading port 50 directed.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 15, the illumination light source 21 is arranged so as to irradiate the illumination light Lf toward the inner surface 56b of the wall portion 56.

As a result, the illumination light Lf emitted from the illumination light source 21 in a state where the protruding end portion 56a is in contact with the position of the display surface R near the back side of the information code C passes through the reading port 50 and then the wall portion. The information code C is irradiated by reflecting on the inner surface 56b of 56.

In this way, by arranging the illumination light source 21 so that the illumination light Lf is emitted toward the inner surface 56b of the wall portion 56 through the reading port 50, the information code C that brings the wall portion 56 closer is the wall portion. Since it is illuminated by the reflected light reflected by 56, it is possible to suppress the influence of the mirror surface reflection caused by the illumination light Lf on the reading of the information code C while ensuring the necessary illuminance.

Note that the characteristic configuration of this embodiment, which irradiates the illumination light Lf toward the inner surface 56b of the wall portion 56, can be applied to other embodiments and the like.

[Fourth Embodiment]
Next, the optical information reading device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described below.
The fourth embodiment is mainly different from the first embodiment in that a marker light irradiation unit for irradiating a marker light for indicating the center of the imaging field AR is provided. Therefore, the same reference numerals are given to the components substantially the same as those in the first embodiment, and the description thereof will be omitted.

In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 16, the marker light irradiation unit 29 that irradiates the circular marker light Lm for indicating the center of the imaging field AR (imaging optical axis L2) through the reading port 50. , Is provided in the housing 11. The marker light irradiation unit 29 includes a marker light source 29a, an aperture 29b, a marker lens 29c, and the like, and while reducing the angle difference between the marker optical axis L3 of the marker light Lm and the imaging optical axis L2, the marker light source 29a Is arranged so as to be close to the light receiving sensor 28.

In particular, in the present embodiment, the illumination light Lf and the marker light Lm are alternately irradiated in a state where the information code C can be read, and the user can use the illumination light Lf and the marker light Lm. Is visually recognized as being irradiated at the same time. Therefore, in the present embodiment, red is adopted as the color of the illumination light Lf, and green, which has a wavelength close to 555 nm, which is the maximum visual sensitivity, is adopted as the color of the marker light Lm in consideration of Color Universal Design. ing. The colors of the illumination light Lf and the marker light Lm described above are merely examples. For example, when the illumination light Lf is irradiated in white, the marker light Lm may be irradiated in red, or the illumination light Lf is red. The marker light Lm may be irradiated in orange when irradiated with, or the marker light Lm may be irradiated in green when the illumination light Lf is irradiated in white.

When the marker light irradiation unit 29 is provided as described above and the illumination light Lf is irradiated to read the information code C, as shown in FIG. 17, a marker indicating the center of the imaging field AR is shown. The light Lm is visually recognized. As a result, the user can easily visually recognize the imaging field AR by the position of the marker light Lm, and can appropriately point the reading port 50 with respect to the information code C.

Note that the characteristic configuration of the present embodiment that irradiates the marker light Lm for indicating the center of the imaging field AR can be applied to other embodiments and the like.

[Fifth Embodiment]
Next, the optical information reading device according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described below.
The fifth embodiment is mainly different from the first embodiment in that a guide portion for facilitating the reading of the two-dimensional code is provided on the wall portion. Therefore, the same reference numerals are given to the components substantially the same as those in the first embodiment, and the description thereof will be omitted.

As described above, the reading port 50 in the first embodiment is opened in a substantially trapezoidal shape in order to read both the one-dimensional code long in one direction and the two-dimensional code having a square shape. A wall portion 56 is provided on the one side edge portion 52 with the one side edge portion 52 farthest from the grip portion 13 as the lower bottom in the direction LT. Therefore, when the reading port 50 is directed toward the two-dimensional code while looking at the outer surface 56c of the wall portion 56, the two-dimensional code is hidden by the wall portion 56, and the second opening region S2 is accurately defined as the two-dimensional code. It may not be possible to turn to.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, a guide portion 60 that functions as a guide when reading the two-dimensional code is provided on the outer surface 56c near the protruding end portion 56a of the wall portion 56. There is. The guide unit 60 includes a pair of guides 61 and 62. As shown in FIG. 19, the guide 61 is formed in a protruding shape at a position where one end of the other side edge 53 is projected perpendicularly to the one side edge 52, and the guide 62 is formed in a protruding shape. The other end of the portion 53 is formed in a protruding shape at a position projected perpendicularly to the one side edge portion 52.

As a result, even when the reading port 50 is directed toward the two-dimensional code while looking at the outer surface 56c of the wall portion 56, the two-dimensional code is located between the guide 61 and the guide 62, so that the second opening region S2 Can be directed to the two-dimensional code, so that the reading operation of the two-dimensional code can be easily performed.

As a modification of the present embodiment, the pair of guides 61 and 62 are not limited to being provided on the wall portion 56 protruding in a thin plate shape, as in the first modification of the fifth embodiment shown in FIG. 20 (A). It may be provided on the wall portion 56 shown in FIG. 10, or it may be provided on the wall portion 56 shown in FIG. 11 as in the second modification of the fifth embodiment shown in FIG. 20 (B). .. Further, the pair of guides 61 and 62 may be provided on the wall portion 56 shown in FIG. 7 as in the third modification of the fifth embodiment shown in FIG. 21 (A), or may be provided on the wall portion 56 shown in FIG. 21 (B). Like the fourth modification of the fifth embodiment shown in FIG. 13 (A), the wall portion 56 may be provided, or the fifth modification of the fifth embodiment shown in FIG. 21 (C). As described above, it may be provided on the wall portion 56 shown in FIG. 13 (B). At that time, the imaging lens 27 and the like may be arranged so that the imaging field of view AR at the position corresponding to the X2-X2 cross section of FIG. 1 has the inner surface of the wall portion 56 as the imaging range as described above. ..

Further, the pair of guides 61 and 62 protrudes as in the sixth modification of the fifth embodiment shown in FIG. 22 in order to make it easier to imagine the position of the second opening region S2 for reading the two-dimensional code. The guide 61 and the guide 62 may be arranged so as to be closer to the end portion 56a.

The pair of guides 61 and 62 is not limited to being formed in a protruding shape so as to be integrated with the outer surface 56c of the wall portion 56, but is formed in a shape that is easy to see by using a notch or the like. It should be done. Further, the pair of guides 61 and 62 may be displayed on the outer surface 56c by printing or the like, or may be displayed by using a light emitting unit such as an LED. Further, by adopting a display unit such as a liquid crystal display as the guide unit 60, the pair of guides 61 and 62 may be displayed by utilizing the display state of the display unit. Further, the above-mentioned various guides 61 and 62 may be provided on the attachment detachably attached to the outer surface 56c of the wall portion 56.

Note that the characteristic configuration of the present embodiment in which the guide portion for facilitating the reading of the two-dimensional code is provided on the wall portion can be applied to other embodiments and the like.

[Sixth Embodiment]
Next, the optical information reading device according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described below.
The sixth embodiment is mainly different from the first embodiment in that the signal taken from the light receiving sensor 28 and used for the decoding process is selected according to the reading target. Therefore, the same reference numerals are given to the components substantially the same as those in the first embodiment, and the description thereof will be omitted.

In the present embodiment, in the reading process performed by the control circuit 40, the light receiving sensor 28 responds to the light received from the information code C taken in through the first opening region S1 and the second opening region S2. Received light according to the state of decoding (reading) the information code based on the signal output from (information code reading mode) and the reception of the reflected light from the one-dimensional code captured through the first opening region S1. A state (one-dimensional code reading mode) in which the one-dimensional code is decoded (read) based on the signal output from the sensor 28 is prepared.

The information code reading mode is set by default, and the reading process performed by the control circuit 40 can read the information code including both the one-dimensional code and the two-dimensional code.

Then, when the reading target is only a one-dimensional code, the control functioning as a switching unit in the reading process performed by the control circuit 40 in response to a predetermined operation or reading of the information code for mode switching. The circuit 40 switches to the one-dimensional code reading mode.

In the state of switching to the one-dimensional code reading mode in this way, the reading port 50 is brought into contact with the display surface R on which the one-dimensional code is displayed so that the protruding end portion 56a is brought into contact with the one-dimensional code in the first opening region S1. Not only can the reading port 50 be easily pointed at the position where the one-dimensional code is read, but also the reading target becomes clear, so that the load of the decoding process (reading process) can be reduced and the time can be shortened. it can.

As a modification of the present embodiment, further, the two-dimensional code is decoded based on the signal output from the light receiving sensor 28 in response to the reception of the reflected light from the two-dimensional code taken in through the second opening region S2. A state (two-dimensional code reading mode) can be prepared.

Therefore, when the reading target is only a two-dimensional code, the two-dimensional code is read in the reading process performed by the control circuit 40 in response to a predetermined operation or reading of the information code for mode switching. In the state of switching to the mode, the reading port 50 may be directed to the two-dimensional code in the second opening region S2 so that the protruding end portion 56a is brought into contact with the display surface R on which the two-dimensional code is displayed. As a result, not only the reading port 50 can be easily pointed at the position where the two-dimensional code is read, but also the reading target becomes clear, so that the load of the decoding process (reading process) can be reduced and the time can be shortened.

Note that the characteristic configuration of this embodiment, in which signals taken from the light receiving sensor 28 and used for decoding processing are selected according to the reading target, can be applied to other embodiments and the like.

[7th Embodiment]
Next, the optical information reading device according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 23.
The seventh embodiment is mainly different from the first embodiment in that the imaging center (optical center) P is arranged so as to be located at the center of the first aperture region S1. Therefore, the same reference numerals are given to the components substantially the same as those in the first embodiment, and the description thereof will be omitted.

In the present embodiment, since the reading of the one-dimensional code is more important than the reading of the two-dimensional code, the imaging lens 27 that forms an image of the reflected light from the information code on the light receiving sensor 28 is as shown in FIG. The image formation center P is arranged so as to be located at the center of the first aperture region S1 by adjusting the inclination of the image formation optical axis L2.

As a result, light reception is ensured in the light receiving area corresponding to the first opening area S1, so that the reading accuracy of the one-dimensional code can be improved.

In particular, in the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 23, the illumination light source 21 is configured to irradiate band-shaped light (substantially line-shaped light) as illumination light Lf toward the first opening region S1. There is.

Therefore, not only is it easier to irradiate the one-dimensional code to be read with the illumination light Lf, but also the illumination light Lf functions as a guide light, so that the reading port 50 is one-dimensional in the first opening region S1. It's easier to point at the code. As a result, it becomes easier to receive the reflected light Lr from the one-dimensional code directed to the first opening region S1, so that the reading accuracy of the one-dimensional code can be further improved.

When the reading of the two-dimensional code is more important than the reading of the one-dimensional code, the illumination light Lf having a rectangular cross section is generated from the illumination light source 21 as in the first modification of the seventh embodiment shown in FIG. It may be configured to be irradiated through the second opening region S2.

In this case, the light receiving sensor 28 can easily receive the reflected light Lr from the two-dimensional code directed to the second opening region S2, so that the reading accuracy of the two-dimensional code can be improved. In particular, since the illumination light Lf having a rectangular cross section functions as a guide light, it becomes easy to direct the reading port 50 toward the two-dimensional code in the second opening region S2.

In the seventh embodiment and its modifications, the light emitting state of the illumination light source 21 may be controlled according to a predetermined input operation. For example, when reading the two-dimensional code in a state where the band-shaped illumination light Lf is irradiated through the first opening region S1, the illumination light Lf may be turned off or the illumination light Lf having a rectangular cross section may be turned off. May be irradiated through the second opening region S2. Further, when reading the one-dimensional code in a state where the illumination light Lf having a rectangular cross section is irradiated through the second opening region S2, the illumination light Lf may be turned off or the band-shaped illumination light Lf may be turned off. May be irradiated through the first opening region S1.

[8th Embodiment]
Next, the optical information reading device according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention will be described below.
In the eighth embodiment, the shape and the like of the protective plate provided in the reading port for protecting the image pickup unit and the illumination unit are mainly different from those in the first embodiment.

The optical information reader capable of reading a two-dimensional code has a larger opening shape than that of a device capable of reading a one-dimensional code. Therefore, the finger of the user who grips the housing may erroneously touch the protective plate provided in the reading port to protect the imaging unit and the lighting unit. In such a case, there is a problem that the reading performance is deteriorated due to the adhesion of dirt such as sebum to the protective plate.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, as in the optical information reading device 200 shown in FIGS. 25 to 27, in the housing 211 having a large opening of the reading port 250, the imaging unit and the lighting unit housed in the housing 211 are provided. A protective plate 226 is provided on the reading port 250 as a protective member for protection. The protective plate 226 is held by a holding portion 215 provided in the vicinity of the reading port 250 of the housing 211 so as to surround the protective plate 226 from the outer surface side.

The protective plate 226 is configured as a plate-shaped member having a predetermined thickness, and is a translucent (light transmissive) plate (for example, light transmissive) capable of transmitting light from the outside of the housing 211 and light from the inside of the housing 211. It is composed of transparent acrylic resin, transparent glass, etc.). As shown in FIG. 28, in the protective plate 226, each portion through which the illumination light is transmitted functions as the first transmission portion 226a and 226b, and the portion through which the reflected light from the information code is transmitted is designated as the second transmission portion 226c. The portion that functions and transmits the marker light functions as the third transmitting portion 226d.

The holding portion 215 is formed so that the exposure widths Xa and Xb for exposing both the first transmission portions 226a and 226b, the second transmission portion 226c and the third transmission portion 226d are smaller than the width of the user's finger. To. Here, FIGS. 29 (A) and 29 (B) show the relationship between the exposure width and the depth to the protective plate 226 (exposure depth: the thickness of the holding portion 215) and the degree of contact of the finger with the protective plate 226. In FIG. 29 (A), the finger width is 14.1 mm and the finger width is 11.1 mm, and the degree of contact of the finger when the exposure width and the exposure depth are changed is shown. “2” indicates the finger pad. It corresponds to the degree of touching as a whole, "1" corresponds to the degree of touching a little, and "0" corresponds to the degree of not touching at all. As can be seen from FIG. 29 (A), when it is necessary to reduce the exposure depth, the exposure width is set small, and when it is necessary to increase the exposure width, the exposure depth is set large. , It is possible to make it difficult for a finger to touch the protective plate 226. Therefore, the holding portion 215 is set so that the above-mentioned exposure widths Xa and Xb and the exposure depth approach the contact degree “0” in FIG. 29 (A).

By holding the protective plate 226 on the holding portion 215 configured in this way, even if a user's finger touches the holding portion 215 when gripping the housing 211, the finger touches both first transmission portions. It becomes difficult to accidentally touch the 226a, 226b, the second transmission portion 226c, and the third transmission portion 226d. For this reason, dirt such as sebum is less likely to adhere to both the first transmission portions 226a and 226b, the second transmission portion 226c, and the third transmission portion 226d, so that the reading performance deteriorates due to the stains adhering to the protective plate 226. It can be suppressed.

In the holding portion 215, both first transmission portions 226a and 226b, second transmission portion 226c, and third transmission portion 226d are exposed ports 215a to 215d, respectively, as in the first modification of the present embodiment shown in FIG. It may be formed so as to be individually exposed via. In that case, in the protective plate 226, the pair of first transmission portions 226a and 226b, the second transmission portion 226c, and the third transmission portion 226d are individually separated as in the second modification of the present embodiment shown in FIG. They may be individually held by the holding unit 215.

32 (A) is an explanatory view showing a main part of the optical information reading device according to the third modification of the eighth embodiment, and FIG. 32 (B) is an X3-X3 cross section of FIG. 32 (A). Is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing. Further, as shown in FIGS. 32 (A) and 32 (B), the protective plate 226 includes a first annular portion 226e and a first transparent portion 226b that project outward so as to surround the first transmission portion 226a in an annular shape. The first annular portion 226f projecting outward so as to enclose the second annular portion 226c, the second annular portion 226g projecting outward so as to enclose the second transmissive portion 226c in an annular shape, and the third transmissive portion 226d so as to enclose in an annular shape. A third annular portion 226h and a third annular portion 226h projecting outward may be formed respectively.

As a result, even if the user's finger touches the first annular portion 226e, 226f, the second annular portion 226g, and the third annular portion 226h when gripping the housing 211, the finger touches the first annular portion 226a, It becomes difficult to accidentally touch the 226b, the second transmission portion 226c, and the third transmission portion 226d. For this reason, dirt such as sebum is less likely to adhere to the first transmission section 226a and 226b, the second transmission section 226c, and the third transmission section 226d, so that deterioration of reading performance due to dirt adhering to the protective plate 226 is suppressed. can do.

[9th Embodiment]
Next, the optical information reading device according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention will be described below.
In the ninth embodiment, the trigger switch 42 is abolished and the marker light irradiation unit 29 is adopted to change the irradiation conditions of the illumination light according to the imaging state of the marker light Lm. Different from.

In the work of reading an information code using an optical information reading device, in order to improve the workability, the reading work is often performed in a state where the illumination light is constantly irradiated through the reading port. Therefore, when another work is performed while holding the optical information reader, the illumination light may accidentally enter the eyes of surrounding people. In particular, in recent years, there has been an increasing need to read a two-dimensional code, and when an optical information reader having a wide irradiation area of illumination light is adopted to read the two-dimensional code, the above problem becomes more remarkable. Become. On the other hand, there is also a method of using a trigger switch or the like to turn on the illumination light each time to read, but in the field where the reading frequency is high, there are problems such as delay in operation, durability of the switch part, and operator fatigue. ..

Therefore, in the present embodiment, the trigger switch 42 is abolished and the marker light irradiation unit 29 is adopted, and in the reading process performed by the control circuit 40, the irradiation conditions of the illumination light are set according to the imaging state of the marker light Lm. change. This is because if the marker light Lm is imaged, it can be estimated that the marker light Lm is reflected by the information code or the like to which the reading port 50 is directed.

Hereinafter, in the present embodiment, the reading process performed by the control circuit 40 will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 33.
When the reading process is started in response to a predetermined operation or the like, the determination process of step S101 shown in FIG. It is determined whether or not the captured image is changed. Here, in a state where the optical information reading device 10 is placed on a desk or the like, the image captured by the imaging unit does not change, so that the determination of No is repeated in step S101, and the marker light Lm. And the state where the illumination light is not irradiated continues. The control circuit 40 or the like that performs the determination process in step S101 may correspond to an example of the “image change determination unit”.

Then, when the user grips the optical information reading device 10 and the captured image captured by the imaging unit changes (Yes in S101), the marker light is controlled by the control circuit 40 and the marker light is emitted from the marker light irradiation unit 29. Lm is irradiated (S103).

Next, the image acquisition process for detecting the marker light in step S105 is performed, and the image pickup unit acquires the captured image for detecting the marker light Lm. Subsequently, in the determination process of step S107, it is determined whether or not the marker light Lm is in the marker imaging state in which the image captured by the imaging unit is imaged in a predetermined state. In the present embodiment, as the predetermined state, for example, when the marker light Lm is circular, an imaging state in which the diameter of the imaged marker light Lm is equal to or larger than a predetermined value is adopted. The control circuit 40 or the like that performs the determination process in step S107 may correspond to an example of the “marker imaging determination unit”.

Here, since the reading port 50 is directed to a nearby information code or a display surface to which the information code is attached, the marker light Lm irradiated is reflected by the information code, the display surface, or the like. When it is determined that the marker is in the imaging state (Yes in S107), the illumination light irradiation process in step S109 is performed. In this process, the illumination unit is controlled by the control circuit 40, and the illumination light is emitted from at least one of the first illumination unit 21 and the second illumination unit 22. Therefore, in the decoding image acquisition process performed in step S111, the captured image is captured and acquired by the imaging unit while being irradiated with the illumination light. Then, in the decoding process of step S113, a process for decoding the information code included in the captured image is performed, and when this decoding process succeeds (Yes in S115), the main reading process ends, and as described above. Processing or the like using the obtained decoding result is performed. On the other hand, if the decoding process fails (No in S115), the process from step S101 is performed. The control circuit 40 can correspond to an example of the “lighting control unit”.

On the other hand, when the reading port 50 is not directed to the information code or the display surface to which the information code is attached and the marker light is irradiated toward a distant space, the reflected light of the marker light Lm cannot be imaged. Therefore, it is determined that the marker is not in the imaging state (No in S107). In this case, the illumination light irradiation is stopped (S117) in which the illumination light is not irradiated, the captured image is captured by the imaging unit without being irradiated with the illumination light (S111), and the captured image is decoded. It is done (S113).

For example, when the reading port 50 is directed to a screen or the like on which an information code is displayed, the screen itself emits light, so that the reflected light of the marker light Lm cannot be easily recognized and imaged. It is determined that it is not (No in S107). In this way, when the information code displayed on the screen is read, the illumination light irradiation is stopped (S117), but since the screen itself is emitting light, the information code can be imaged decodably.

As described above, in the optical information reading device 10 according to the present embodiment, the marker light irradiation unit 29 that irradiates the marker light Lm indicating the imaging field of view by the imaging unit is provided, and the image pickup unit performs the reading process. In the captured image, it is determined whether or not the marker light Lm is in the marker imaging state in which the marker light Lm is imaged in a predetermined state, and the illumination unit is controlled according to the determination result.

When the reading port 50 is not directed to the display surface or the like to which the information code is attached, the irradiated marker light Lm is not reflected by the display surface or the like, so that the marker light Lm is not imaged. That is, since it is not necessary to irradiate the illumination light when the marker light Lm is not imaged, it is possible to suppress the irradiation of unnecessary illumination light by controlling the illumination unit according to the above determination result.

In particular, when it is determined in the determination process of step S107 that the marker is in the imaging state (Yes in S107), the illumination unit is controlled so that the illumination light is irradiated, and it is determined that the marker is not in the imaging state. (No in S107), the illumination unit is controlled so as to stop the irradiation of the illumination light. As a result, on the screen or the like on which the information code is displayed, since the screen itself emits light, the reflected light of the marker light Lm cannot be easily recognized and imaged, and the illumination light does not need to be irradiated in the first place. Can be switched on / off appropriately.

Further, the marker light irradiation unit 29 irradiates the marker light Lm when it is determined that the image captured by the image pickup unit has changed (Yes in S101). As a result, when the optical information reading device 10 is placed on a desk or the like, that is, when it is not in use, the image captured by the imaging unit does not change and the marker light Lm is not irradiated, so that unnecessary illumination light is emitted. Irradiation can be suppressed more reliably.

When it is determined that the marker imaging state is present (Yes in S107), the illumination unit is controlled so that the illumination light is irradiated, and when it is determined that the marker imaging state is not present (No in S107), the marker imaging state is determined. The illumination unit may be controlled so that the illumination light is irradiated in a state where it is darker than the case where it is determined to be. Even in this way, it is possible to suppress the irradiation of unnecessarily bright illumination light.

Further, since the range in which the marker light Lm is captured in the captured image is predetermined, in the determination process of step S101, the marker light Lm is determined in the range in the captured image where the marker light Lm may be captured. It may be determined whether or not the marker image is captured in a predetermined state. For example, when the marker light Lm indicates the center of the imaging field of view, it may be determined whether or not the marker imaging state is performed only in the central range of the captured image. As a result, it is possible to limit the range for determining whether or not the captured image is in the marker imaging state, and it is possible to reduce the processing load required for the determination process and improve the processing speed. Further, when the captured image obtained by capturing the marker light Lm is sequentially stored in the memory 35, the amount of stored information can be reduced.

The marker light Lm is not limited to being irradiated in a circular shape so as to indicate the center of the imaging field of view by the imaging unit, and is, for example, irradiated so as to indicate both the four corners and the center of the imaging field of view by the imaging unit. May be good.

[10th Embodiment]
Next, the optical information reading device according to the tenth embodiment of the present invention will be described below.
The tenth embodiment is mainly different from the first embodiment in that when a plurality of decoding results can be obtained from one captured image, the decoding result to be output is selected from the plurality of decoding results.

In recent years, the need for reading a two-dimensional code has been increasing, and the introduction of an optical information reading device capable of reading both a one-dimensional code and a two-dimensional code is increasing at retail stores and the like. Further, in addition to the one-dimensional code for POS, a two-dimensional code for providing the product information may be displayed on the product. Unlike reading by a line sensor of a one-dimensional scanner, an optical information reading device that reads a two-dimensional code using an area sensor or the like has a planar reading field of view (imaging field of view). Therefore, when a plurality of information codes are included in the reading field of view at the time of accounting, the information code unrelated to the accounting may be unintentionally read.

For example, when reading the barcode Ca for accounting attached to a product at the time of accounting, as shown in FIG. 34, if the QR code Cb for providing product information attached to the product is also imaged at the same time, 1 The decoding result of the barcode Ca and the decoding result of the QR code Cb are acquired from one captured image. Further, for example, when the information code for the coupon to be read before accounting is imaged together with the information code for accounting, two decoding results may be acquired from one captured image. Therefore, when reading a plurality of information codes at the same time, it is necessary to selectively determine whether or not the read information can be output.

Therefore, in the scanning process performed in the present embodiment, when a plurality of decoding results are obtained from one captured image, it is based on whether or not the selection determination information registered in advance is included in the decoding result. Select the decoding result to be output from multiple decoding results.

Hereinafter, in the present embodiment, the reading process performed by the control circuit 40 will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 35. In this embodiment, the characteristic character string included in the predetermined URL (Uniform Resource Locator) is adopted as the selection determination information, and the decoding result not including this characteristic character string is the decoding result to be output. Is selected as. As the characteristic character string, for example, a scheme name such as "http:" or "https:" and a delimiter colon (hereinafter, simply referred to as a scheme name or the like) attached to the end of the scheme name are assumed, and the memory 35 is preliminarily used. It is remembered in.

When the reading process is started in response to a predetermined operation or the like, the image pickup process of step S201 shown in FIG. An image is taken to decode the code. Subsequently, in the decoding process shown in step S203, a process for decoding the information code included in the captured image is performed. Then, when one decoding result is obtained from the captured image (No in S205), the decoding result is output to the outside via the communication interface 48 (S209). The control circuit 40 that executes the decoding process can correspond to an example of the "decoding unit".

On the other hand, when a plurality of decoding results are obtained from the captured image (Yes in S205), the selection process in step S207 is performed. In this process, the decoding result that does not include the selection determination information (for example, the characteristic character string included in the predetermined URL) is selected as the decoding result to be output. Therefore, as illustrated in FIG. 34, the bar code Ca for accounting in which the product price information and the like are recorded and the QR code Cb for providing the product information in which the URL of the site introducing the product is recorded are simultaneously imaged. When two decoding results are obtained, the decoding result of the barcode Ca is selected as the decoding result to be output. Then, the decoding result selected in this way is output to the outside via the communication interface 48 (S209). The control circuit 40 that executes the selection process may correspond to an example of the “selection unit”.

As described above, in the optical information reading device 10 according to the present embodiment, in the reading process, a decoding process for decoding an information code from the captured image captured by the imaging unit is performed, and a plurality of information codes are used. When a plurality of decoding results can be obtained from one captured image because they are simultaneously imaged, the decoding results to be output are selected by the selection process. Then, in the above selection process, the decoding result to be output is selected based on whether or not the selection determination information registered in advance is included in the decoding result.

As a result, for example, when the information code to be read includes the selection determination information, the selection determination can be performed by selecting the decoding result including the selection determination information from the plurality of decoding results. It is possible to prevent the decoding result of the non-reading information code that does not include the information from being output. Further, for example, when the information code to be excluded from reading includes the selection determination information, the selection can be made by selecting the decoding result that does not include the selection determination information from the plurality of decoding results. It is possible to prevent the decoding result of the non-reading information code including the determination information from being output. That is, even when a plurality of decoding results are obtained because a plurality of information codes are simultaneously imaged, the decoding result to be output can be appropriately selected, and the decoding result of the information code read unintentionally can be selected. You can limit the output.

In particular, in the present embodiment, the selection determination information is registered as a characteristic character string included in a predetermined URL. Therefore, when the URL is recorded in the information code to be excluded from the reading target, it is possible to prevent the decoding result of the information code from being output. On the other hand, when the URL is recorded in the information code to be read, it is possible to prevent the decoding result including the URL from being output.

The selection determination information is not limited to being set in a characteristic character string included in a predetermined URL such as a scheme name such as "http:" or "https:", for example, "file:" or It may be set to another scheme name such as "mail to:". Further, the selection determination information may be distinguished by, for example, "http:" and "https:" and "file:" and "mailto:". In this case, a protocol such as "file:" may be used for a two-dimensional code for business use, so only the two-dimensional code for guiding to the website by the "http:" or "https:" protocol is read. By targeting the output restriction, it is possible to avoid a decrease in business efficiency.

Further, the selection determination information may be set in a characteristic character string included in a predetermined address such as an IP address. In this case, when the characteristic character string of the above address is recorded in the information code that should be excluded from reading, it is possible to prevent the decoding result of the information code from being output, and the information code that should be read. When the characteristic character string of the above address is recorded in, it is possible to prevent the decoding result that does not include the characteristic character string of the above address from being output.

Further, the above selection determination information may be set to, for example, a top-level domain such as ".com" or ".jp" and a dot of the delimiter attached immediately before the top-level domain. In recent years, URLs of web addresses often omit the "http:" scheme and let the application interpret the scheme. Therefore, by setting a domain as selection judgment information, the web address can be used more widely than the restrictions imposed by the scheme. The read output can be limited.

Further, the selection determination information may be set according to, for example, a combination of 1 or 2 or more predetermined number strings, or may be set according to a combination of 1 or 2 or more predetermined character strings. Good.

In the selection process of step S207, the decoding result to be output may be selected based on the code type of the information code that has been successfully decoded. For example, the decoding result of the barcode can be selected, and the decoding result of the information code of the code type other than the barcode can be prevented from being selected.

As a result, if the information code to be read is a predetermined code type, the decoding result decoded from the information code of the above-mentioned predetermined code type can be selected from a plurality of decoding results, and the above-mentioned predetermined code type can be used. It is possible to prevent the decoding result of the information code not to be read from being output. Even in this way, even when multiple decoding results are obtained because multiple information codes are captured at the same time, the decoding results to be output can be appropriately selected and read unintentionally. It is possible to limit the output of the decoding result of the information code.

[11th Embodiment]
Next, the optical information reading device according to the eleventh embodiment of the present invention will be described below.
The eleventh embodiment is mainly different from the tenth embodiment in that duplicate processing is suppressed when two or more same decoding results are obtained from one captured image.

Conventionally, in order to prevent the same information code from being read twice, a technique is known to limit the output of a matching decoding result by comparing the decoding result obtained by reading the information code with the most recently decoded decoding result. Has been done. In recent years, two-dimensional codes such as QR codes have become widespread, and one-dimensional codes and two-dimensional codes may be displayed adjacent to each other (see FIG. 34). In particular, depending on the application, the same data may be recorded for each of the one-dimensional code and the two-dimensional code displayed adjacently, and because the code types are different, the conventional double-reading technique cannot be applied. , Processing based on the same decoding result may be duplicated. For example, at the time of payment, when the one-dimensional code and the two-dimensional code in which the same data are recorded are displayed adjacent to each other on the display screen of the smartphone, the payment is double-processed based on the decoded result read. There is a possibility that

Therefore, in the reading process performed in the present embodiment, when a plurality of information codes are simultaneously imaged and a plurality of decoding results can be obtained from one captured image, two or more same decoding results can be obtained. By determining whether or not it is present, duplicate processing based on the same decoding result is suppressed. The decoding result can also include the code type of the read information code.

Hereinafter, in the present embodiment, the reading process performed by the control circuit 40 will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.
When the reading process is started in response to a predetermined operation or the like, the image pickup process of step S301 shown in FIG. An image is taken to decode the code. Subsequently, in the determination process shown in step S303, it is determined whether or not the captured image has a code image that can be recognized as an information code. Then, when there are one or more code images (Yes in S303), the code image acquisition process is performed in step S305, and one code image is extracted and acquired from the captured image.

Next, in the decoding process shown in step S307, the code image acquired as described above is decoded, and if the decoding process is successful, the decoding result is obtained. Subsequently, the data reference process shown in step S309 is performed, and the memory 35 is referred to with respect to the accumulated decoding results as described later.

Then, in the determination process of step S311, it is determined whether or not the data matching the decoding result obtained in the decoding process is stored in the memory 35. Here, if the matching decoding result is not stored (No in S311), the decoding result is output to a higher-level device or the like as a predetermined process (S315), and the decoding result is stored in the memory 35. (S317). The control circuit 40 that performs the determination process in step S311 can correspond to an example of the "decoding result same / different determination unit" that once determines whether or not the same decoding result is obtained. Further, the control circuit 40 that performs the process (S315) of outputting the decoding result can correspond to an example of a "processing unit" for performing a predetermined process using the decoding result.

Subsequently, in the determination process of step S319, it is determined whether or not there is another code image that has not been decoded because the captured image contains two or more code images. Here, if there is another code image that has not been decoded because there are two or more code images in the captured image (Yes in S319), the next code image is acquired (S321). Then, decoding processing is performed on the acquired code image (S307), and the memory 35 is referred to with respect to the decoding result (S309).

Then, when the data matching the decoding result obtained in the above decoding process is stored in the memory 35 (Yes in S311), the matching decoding result is read a predetermined number of times in the determination process in step S313. It is determined whether or not the output is within. Here, the reading number is the number of times counted once for one captured image, and in the present embodiment, the predetermined reading number is, for example, the decoding result decoded by the captured image captured this time or the previous time. It is determined that the decoding result decoded by the captured image is output within the predetermined reading number, and the decoding result decoded by the captured image captured two times before is output within the predetermined reading number. It is set so that it is determined that there is no such thing.

Here, when two information codes in which the same data are recorded are included in one captured image, and therefore the same decoding result as the decoding result stored in the memory 35 immediately before being decoded is obtained. , It is determined that the matching decoding result is output within a predetermined number of readings (No in S313), and the processing after step S319 is performed.

On the other hand, if the same decoding result as the decoding result obtained in the captured image captured two times before or two times before is obtained, it is determined that the matching decoding result is not output within the predetermined number of readings. (Yes in S313), and the decoding result is output to a higher-level device or the like (S315).

Then, when all the code images included in one captured image are decoded (No in S319), a new captured image is captured when a predetermined end operation or the like is not performed (No in S323). (S301), the processed image after step S303 is performed on this captured image.

As described above, in the optical information reading device 10 according to the present embodiment, in the reading process, a decoding process for decoding an information code with respect to the captured image captured by the imaging unit is performed, and a plurality of information codes are used. When a plurality of decoding results can be obtained from one captured image because they are simultaneously imaged, it is determined whether or not two or more of the same decoding results are obtained. Then, when it is determined that two or more same decoding results are obtained, the decoding result output processing is performed as a predetermined process for one of the two or more same decoding results.

As a result, for example, even when information codes of different code types in which the same data are recorded are simultaneously imaged, it is possible to prevent the same processing from being performed twice.

In particular, in the present embodiment, it is determined that two or more same decoding results are obtained (Yes in S311), and the decoding results that match the same decoding results based on the information stored in the memory 35. When the above-mentioned predetermined processing is not performed within the predetermined number of readings (Yes in S313), a predetermined processing (decoding result output processing) is performed on this decoding result.

As a result, even if the same decoding result has been read before, if the previous decoding result has not been subjected to the predetermined processing within the predetermined number of readings, that is, it has recently been used for the predetermined processing. If it is not the decoding result, it is assumed that the user intentionally reads two or more information codes in which the same data is recorded, and the same decoding result can be used to perform the above-mentioned predetermined processing.

Next, a first modification of the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 37.
In the reading process in the first modification of the present embodiment, after the decoding result is output to a higher-level device or the like as described above (S315 in FIG. 37), the decoding result is stored as a storage unit together with the decoding time when the decoding process is completed. It is stored in the functioning memory 35 (S317a). After that, when the decoding process for the newly acquired code image is successful (S307) and it is determined that the data matching the decoding result is stored in the memory 35 (Yes in S311), the determination shown in step S313a is performed. In the process, it is determined whether or not the elapsed time from the decoding time stored in association with the decoding result matching the same decoding result is equal to or longer than a predetermined time. Then, when the elapsed time from the decoding time of the matching decoding result is equal to or longer than the predetermined time (Yes in S313a), the decoding result is output to a higher-level device or the like (S315), and when it is less than the predetermined time. (No in S313a), the processing after step S319 is performed without outputting the decoding result.

As a result, even if the same decoding result is read before, if the elapsed time from the decoding time of the previous decoding result is longer than a predetermined time, that is, it is not the decoding result recently used for the predetermined processing. In this case, assuming that the user intentionally reads two or more information codes in which the same data is recorded, the same decoding result can be used to perform the above-mentioned predetermined processing.

Next, a second modification of the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 38.
In the reading process in the second modification of the present embodiment, for the information code in which the data matching the decoded decoding result is stored in the memory 35, the information code is removed from the imaging field of the imaging unit and the imaging field is displayed again. When the number of times of entering the inside is counted as the number of imaging times N and it is determined that two or more same decoding results are obtained, the number of imaging times N of the decoding results matching the same decoding result is the predetermined number of times Nth or more. In that case, a predetermined process is performed on the above-mentioned decoding result.

Specifically, when the data matching the decoding result is stored in the memory 35 (Yes in S311 of FIG. 38), if the imaging number N of the decoding result is not set as the counting target, the imaging number N Is less than the predetermined number of times Nth (No in S325), it is determined as No in step S327, and the decoding result is set as the count target (S329). Then, the processes after step S319 are performed, and each time the determination process in step S303 determines that the captured image does not have a code image that can be recognized as an information code (No in S303), the image is counted. The number of imaging times N is counted so as to be incremented (N = N + 1) with respect to the decoding result (S331). The control circuit 40 that counts the number of times of imaging N can correspond to an example of the “counting unit”.

Then, when the decoding result to be counted is read again (Yes in S311) and the number of imaging times N becomes Nth or more a predetermined number of times (Yes in S325), the decoding result is output to a higher-level device or the like. (S315), after being stored in the memory 35 (S317), the count target setting is cleared (S333).

As a result, in order to read two or more information codes in which the same data is intentionally recorded by the user, the same decoding is performed by repeating the imaging state in which the information code is put in the imaging field of view and the imaging state in which the information code is removed from the imaging field of view. The above-mentioned predetermined processing can be performed for each of the results. In particular, even if the information code is not imaged for a moment due to the influence of the surroundings during the imaging of the information code that has been successfully decoded, the number of imaging times N is only increased to some extent, and the image is not captured for a moment. It is possible to prevent the above-mentioned predetermined processing from being performed for each of the decoding results.

Next, a third modification of the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 39.
In the reading process in the third modification of the present embodiment, the time when the information code whose data matching the decoded decoding result is stored in the memory 35 is removed from the imaging field of the imaging unit is decoded as the code exclusion time. It is stored in the memory 35 in association with the result, and it is determined that two or more same decoding results are obtained, and the elapsed time from the code exclusion time of the decoding result matching the same decoding result is predetermined. When the time is longer than that, a predetermined process is performed on the above-mentioned decoding result.

Specifically, when the data matching the decoding result is stored in the memory 35 (Yes in S311 in FIG. 39), and the decoding result is not set as the time measurement target (No in S335), the imaging process (S337), the determination of No is repeated in the determination process of step S339 until there is no code image that can be recognized as an information code from this captured image. Then, when the code image is no longer included in the captured image (Yes in S339), the time when the information code targeted for timekeeping is removed from the imaging field of view of the imaging unit is set as the code exclusion time, and the decoding result is set. It is associated and stored in the memory 35 (S341).

Then, when the decoding result targeted for timekeeping is read again (Yes in S311 and S335), when the elapsed time from the code exclusion time exceeds a predetermined time (Yes in S343), the decoding result is ranked higher. After being output to a device or the like (S315) and stored in the memory 35 (S317), the timekeeping target setting is cleared (S345).

As a result, in order to read two or more information codes in which the same data is intentionally recorded by the user, the information codes are removed from the imaging field of view for a certain period of time and then put back into the imaging field of view, so that the same decoding results are obtained. The above-mentioned predetermined processing can be performed.

Next, a fourth modification of the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 40.
In the reading process in the fourth modification of the present embodiment, when it is determined that two or more same decoding results are obtained, and the posture of the housing 11 to be detected is a predetermined posture state, the above Performs predetermined processing on the decoding result. Therefore, in the fourth modification, the optical information reading device 10 includes a posture sensor as a posture detecting unit for detecting the posture of the housing 11 including a gyro sensor and an acceleration sensor, and a detection signal from the posture sensor. In response to this, the control circuit 40 grasps the posture state of the housing 11.

Specifically, when data matching the decoding result is stored in the memory 35 (Yes in S311 of FIG. 40), it is based on the detection signal output from the posture sensor for a certain period of time in the determination process of step S313b. Therefore, it is determined whether or not the posture of the housing 11 is in a predetermined posture state. In the fourth modification, the predetermined posture state is set to, for example, a state in which the posture is significantly changed from the posture when decoding is successful.

Here, since the user moves the housing 11 so as to change the direction of the reading port 50, if it is determined that the posture of the housing 11 is in the predetermined posture state (Yes in S313b), the decoding result Is output to a higher-level device or the like (S315). On the other hand, since the reading port 50 remains directed to the information code, if it is determined that the posture of the housing 11 is not in the predetermined posture state (No in S313b), the decoding result is not output and the above-mentioned The processing after step S319 is performed.

As a result, in order to read two or more information codes in which the same data is intentionally recorded by the user, the housing 11 is gripped so as to be in the predetermined posture state, and the same decoding result is obtained for each of the above. A predetermined process can be performed.

[12th Embodiment]
Next, the optical information reading device according to the twelfth embodiment of the present invention will be described below.
The twelfth embodiment is mainly different from the first embodiment in that the information code can be easily aimed and read in the reading process that is always performed by eliminating the trigger switch.

In recent years, two-dimensional codes such as QR codes have become widespread, and the introduction of optical information readers capable of reading two-dimensional codes using area sensors as light-receiving means will increase even at cash registers in retail stores and convenience stores. is expected. Therefore, as compared with the conventional optical information reading device using a line sensor, the reading area is wide, and it is possible to easily read by matching the information code in the area regardless of the orientation of the information code. However, there are cases where multiple information codes are unintentionally entered in the area, or information codes that are not to be read may be read during the reading operation, making it difficult to determine that the information codes to be read have been read. is there.

By the way, in retail stores and convenience stores, the number of times the information code is read in store operations is large, and an optical information reading device that can be read without operating the trigger switch is adopted, and the reading port is aligned with the direction of the information code to be used as the information code. By directly hitting and reading, it is possible to prevent an erroneous reading operation and read the information code to be read. In addition, in the environment surrounding the convenience store industry, the introduction of self-checkouts due to labor saving in stores and the increase in foreign workers are advancing, and even operators with little experience in reading operations can read by simply holding it up. It is required to reliably aim and read the target information code. Therefore, when performing aim reading without operating the trigger switch in an optical information reading device using an area sensor, the operation method is to align the position of the point marker at the center of the reading area and the information code to perform aim reading. .. However, there is a problem that it is necessary to perform an operation of adjusting to the center position of the area, and it is not possible to realize aim reading utilizing a wide reading area.

Therefore, in the scanning process performed in the present embodiment, a code image having the same information code is detected in a plurality of continuously captured images continuously captured by the imaging unit, and the detected code image is used as the captured image. It is determined whether or not the code image is a reading target according to the occupied state. Specifically, when the state in which the code image occupies the captured image is a predetermined state, or more specifically, in the present embodiment, when the range of the code image occupying the captured image is equal to or greater than the predetermined range. Determine that the code image is the reading target. This is because the information code that the user intends to read tends to have a range of the code image occupied in the captured image, such as a predetermined range or more.

Hereinafter, in the present embodiment, the reading process performed by the control circuit 40 will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.
When the reading process is started by the control circuit 40, the imaging process of step S401 shown in FIG. 41 is performed, and the light receiving sensor 28, the imaging lens 27, and the like function as an imaging unit, whereby the information code is decoded by this imaging unit. The image to be taken is taken. Subsequently, the code image detection process shown in step S403 is performed, and a process for detecting a code image for decoding the information code from the captured image captured by the imaging unit is performed. For example, if the captured information code is a QR code (registered trademark), a process of detecting a code image is performed based on a finder pattern (position detection pattern) arranged at each of the three corners of the code area. The control circuit 40 that executes the code image detection process may correspond to an example of the “code image detection unit”.

Then, when the code image is successfully detected (Yes in S405), the detection result is stored in the memory 35 (S407), and then the code image detected as described above is subjected to the decoding process shown in step S409. The process for decoding the information code is performed. When this decoding process fails (No in S411) or when the detection of the code image described above fails (No in S405), the process from step S401 is performed. The control circuit 40 that executes the decoding process can correspond to an example of the "decoding unit".

When the decoding process is successful (Yes in S411), the decoding result obtained by the decoding process is stored in the memory 35 (S413). Subsequently, in the determination process of step S415, whether or not the state occupied by the code image in the captured image is a predetermined state, specifically, as described above, the range of the code image occupied in the captured image is a predetermined range. It is judged whether or not it is the above.

Here, since the reading port 50 has just been pointed at the information code C to be read, for example, as shown in FIG. 42 (A), even if the code image of the information code C is imaged so that it can be decoded. If the range of the code image occupied in the captured image is less than the predetermined range, it is determined as No in step S415. In this case, the process from step S401 is performed, and the imaging process for decoding the information code is continued. After that, even if the decoding process of the captured information code code image is successful (Yes in S411), since the reading port 50 is in the process of being brought close to the information code C to be read, for example, FIG. As shown in B), if the range of the code image occupying the captured image is less than the predetermined range even if it is larger than the previous code image, it is determined as No in step S415. In this case as well, the processing from step S401 is performed, and the imaging process for decoding the information code is continued. That is, a code image having the same information code is detected in a plurality of continuously captured images continuously captured by the imaging unit, and the code image is read according to the state in which the detected code image occupies the captured image. It is judged whether or not it is a target.

Then, since the reading port 50 is brought close to the information code to be read, for example, as shown in FIG. 42 (C), when the range of the code image occupied in the captured image exceeds the predetermined range, the step S415 is performed. Is determined to be Yes. In this case, the decoding result output process shown in step S417 is performed, and the decoding result is output to a higher-level device or the like as a predetermined process using the decoding result. Subsequently, the notification process of step S419 is performed, and the light emitting unit 46 functioning as the notification unit is brought into a predetermined lighting state as a predetermined notification according to the success of the decoding process. The control circuit 40 that performs the process (S417) of outputting the decoding result can correspond to an example of a "processing unit" for performing a predetermined process using the decoding result. Further, the predetermined notification according to the success of the decoding process may be performed by using the sound of the buzzer 44 or the vibration of the vibrator 45. In this case, the buzzer 44 or the vibrator 45 is an example of the "notification unit". Can correspond to.

As described above, in the optical information reading device 10 according to the present embodiment, code images having the same information code are detected in a plurality of continuously captured images continuously captured by the imaging unit, and these are detected. Depending on the state in which the code image occupies the captured image, the reading target determination unit determines whether or not the code image is the reading target. Then, when the decoding result is obtained by successfully decoding the code image determined to be the reading target (Yes in S411 and S415), the processing unit uses this decoding result to determine. Processing is performed, and a predetermined notification is performed by the notification unit.

As a result, even in an optical information reading device that does not have a trigger switch or the like for instructing the decoding timing, by pointing the reading port 50 at the information code to be read by the user, the code image of the information code can be displayed. When the state occupied in the captured image satisfies a predetermined condition (in the present embodiment, the range of the code image occupied in the captured image is equal to or larger than the predetermined range), it can be determined that the code image is the reading target. Therefore, by performing a predetermined process using the decoding result obtained from the code image determined to be the reading target and performing a predetermined notification according to the success of the decoding, the trigger switch or the like is not used at all times. It is possible to realize an optical information reading device capable of aiming and reading an information code in the reading process to be performed.

In the determination process of step S415, when the range of the code image occupied in the captured image is equal to or larger than the predetermined range, the state occupied by the code image in the captured image is not limited to the affirmative determination as the predetermined state. For example, when the detected code image is continuously detected for a predetermined time without moving substantially, the state in which the code image occupies the captured image may be positively determined as a predetermined state. Further, in the determination process of step S415, when the length of one side of the detected code image is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, a positive determination may be made as the state occupied by the code image in the captured image is a predetermined state. ..

That is, even if a part corresponding to a part of the detected code image deviates from the imaging field of view by the imaging unit, if the state of the remaining part of the code image in the imaging field satisfies a predetermined condition, the code image is read. Can be determined to be. For example, as shown in FIGS. 43 (A) and 43 (B), even in the code image of the information code C captured decodably, the range of the code image occupied in the captured image is less than the above-mentioned predetermined range. Therefore (No in S415), it is assumed that the decoding result is not output. In this case, after that, as shown in FIG. 43 (C), even if a part corresponding to a part of the detected code image deviates from the imaging field of view by the imaging unit, the rest of the code image in the imaging field of view When the length of one side of the code image is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the decoding result can be output assuming that the state occupied by the code image in the captured image is a predetermined state (Yes in S415).

As a result, even if a part of the information code that the user is trying to read is out of the imaging field of view, the code image is not immediately determined to be out of the reading target, so that the code image can be more accurately read. It can be determined whether or not it is a reading target.

Next, a first modification of the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.
In the reading process in the first modification of the present embodiment, it is determined whether or not the detected code image is the reading target even in the state where the decoding is not successful. Specifically, as shown in the flowchart shown in FIG. 44, even if the code image is successfully detected (Yes in S405 of FIG. 44), if the decoding of the code image fails (No in S411), the determination in step S421 is made. In the process, it is determined whether or not the state in which the code image occupies the captured image is a predetermined state. If the code image that failed to be decoded is in the above-mentioned predetermined state (Yes in S421), and if the code image has never been successfully decoded (No in S423), the code image is in the above-mentioned predetermined state. The flag Fc indicating that the state has been reached is set to "1" (S425), and the process from step S401 is performed. On the other hand, if the code image that failed to be decoded is in the above-mentioned predetermined state (Yes in S421), and if the code image has been successfully decoded even once (Yes in S423), the decoding result is output. At the same time (S417), the notification unit such as the light emitting unit 46 is brought into a predetermined notification state (S419).

After the flag Fc is set to "1" as described above, if the newly captured code image of the same information code is successfully decoded (Yes in S411), the flag Fc of the code image is set to "1". Therefore, it is determined as Yes in the determination process of step S427, the decoding result is output (S417), and the notification unit such as the light emitting unit 46 is in a predetermined notification state (S419).

For example, as shown in FIGS. 45A and 45B, even if the code image cannot be decoded but can be detected by recognizing the finder pattern or the like, the range of the code image occupying the captured image is the above. It is assumed that the decoding result is not output because it is less than the predetermined range (No in S421). In this case, after that, as shown in FIG. 45 (C), when the code image that cannot be decoded but can be detected by recognizing the finder pattern or the like exceeds the above-mentioned predetermined range in the captured image (Yes, S423 in S421). No), the flag Fc is set to "1" (S425), and thereafter, the process for detecting the code image from the continuously captured images is continued. Then, as shown in FIG. 45 (D), when the code image whose flag Fc is set to "1" but the range of the code image occupying the captured image is changed to less than the predetermined range is successfully decoded (in S411). Yes), the decoding result is output (S417), and the notification unit such as the light emitting unit 46 is in a predetermined notification state (S419).

That is, if the decoding process of the code image when it is determined to be the reading target is not successful and the decoding process of the code image is successful after the determination, the decoding result obtained after the determination is used for processing. A predetermined process is performed by the unit, and a predetermined notification is performed by the notification unit. As a result, even if it can be determined that an information code-like image has been captured due to the surrounding environment such as lighting, but the code image is determined to be read without successful decoding, the surrounding environment thereafter. If the decoding of the code image is successful due to the change in the above, it is assumed that the decoding of the code image to be read is successful, and the predetermined processing and the predetermined notification can be performed at the success timing.

In the present embodiment and the modified example, as can be seen from FIG. 34, when two or more code images are continuously detected from the captured image, it is assumed that the user's aim is not determined, and the decoding result is determined. You may not output it.

[13th Embodiment]
Next, the optical information reading device according to the thirteenth embodiment of the present invention will be described below.
The thirteenth embodiment is mainly different from the first embodiment in that even if a plurality of information codes are imaged at the same time so that they can be decoded, it is easy to output the decoding result of the information code to be read.

When one or two or more other information codes are arranged around the information code to be read and a plurality of information codes are imaged at the same time so that they can be decoded, the information code to be read is decoded. It is necessary to output the result and not to output the decoding result of other information codes.

Therefore, conventionally, by irradiating a marker light indicating the center of the imaging field of view, it is easy to put only the information code to be read into the imaging field of view, and only the decoding result of the information code is output. .. However, when the user cannot visually recognize the marker light, for example, when the information code is displayed on a reflective surface, a liquid crystal screen, or the like, there is a problem that it is difficult to put only the information code to be read into the imaging field of view. is there. Specifically, for example, when the barcodes Cc, Cd, and Ce are displayed on the screen as a plurality of information codes C as illustrated in FIG. 46, it is difficult to visually recognize the marker light emitted on the display screen. Therefore, it may be difficult to put only the barcode Cd to be read into the imaging field of view.

Therefore, in the reading process performed in the present embodiment, when the light receiving sensor 28, the imaging lens 27, and the like function as an imaging unit, and a plurality of decoding results can be obtained from the captured image P imaged by the imaging unit. , The output of the decoding result is limited depending on the imaging state.
Specifically, one information code for which a decoding result is obtained for a predetermined reading area (hereinafter, also referred to as reading area Ps) provided so as to occupy a part (for example, a central part) of the captured image P. When the image of the above one information code is included and the image of the other information code is not included, the decoding result of the above one information code is output.

Hereinafter, in the present embodiment, the reading process performed by the control circuit 40 will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 47, taking the case of reading the barcode Cd shown in FIG. 46 as an example. In the present embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 48, the captured image P captured by the imaging unit is 640 pixels × 480 pixels, and the reading area Ps is 320 pixels × 240 pixels. It is set so that P and the center match.

When the reading process is started in response to a predetermined operation or the like, the imaging process of step S501 shown in FIG. 47 is performed, and the captured image P for decoding the information code is captured by the imaging unit. Subsequently, in the decoding process shown in step S503, a process for decoding the information code included in the captured image P is performed, and the process from step S501 is repeated until the decoding is successful (No in S505). .. The control circuit 40 that executes the decoding process in step S503 can correspond to an example of the “decoding unit”.

Then, when the decoding is successful and the decoding result is obtained (Yes in S505), it is determined in the determination process of step S507 whether or not the image of the information code for which the decoding result is obtained is included in the reading area Ps. To. In the present embodiment, specifically, it is determined whether or not all the images of the information code for which the decoding result is obtained are included in the reading area Ps, and the image of the information code for which the decoding result is obtained is determined. When only a part of the reading area Ps is included, No is determined in step S507, and the processing from step S501 is performed without outputting the decoding result.

After that, when the reading port 50 is brought close to the barcode Cd to be read, if all the images of the information code for which the decoding result is obtained are included in the reading area Ps (Yes in S507), the determination process in step S509 is performed. In the reading area Ps, an image of one information code for which the decoding result was obtained is included, and an image of another information code is not included (hereinafter, also referred to as a single code imaging state). It is determined whether or not it is.

In the present embodiment, specifically, the reading area Ps includes all of the images of one information code for which the decoding result is obtained, and at least a part of the images of the other information codes. If there is no state, it is determined that the single code imaging state is in effect. Here, since the reading port 50 is being brought closer to the barcode Cd to be read, as illustrated in FIG. 49, all the images of the barcode Cd to be read are included in the reading area Ps, and the reading area Ps is included. If a part of the barcode Cc image or a part of the barcode Ce image that is not to be read is included in the reading area Ps, it is determined that the reading area is not in the single code imaging state, and No is determined in step S509. Then, the processing from step S501 is performed without outputting the decoding result.

On the other hand, since the reading port 50 has been brought close to the barcode Cd to be read, as illustrated in FIG. 50, all the images of the barcode Cd to be read are included in the reading area Ps, and other information. When at least a part of the code image is not included in the reading area Ps, that is, when only the image of the barcode Cd to be read is included in the reading area Ps, it is assumed that the single code imaging state is in step S509. Is determined as Yes.

In this case, in the decoding result output process of step S511, the decoding result of the barcode Cd included in the reading area Ps is output to the host device or the like. The control circuit 40 that executes the decoding result output process in step S511 may correspond to an example of the “output unit”.

As described above, in the optical information reading device 10 according to the present embodiment, one information code for which a decoding result is obtained for a predetermined reading area Ps provided so as to occupy a part of the captured image P. When the image of the above is included and the image of the other information code is not included (Yes in S509), the decoding result of the above one information code is output (S511).

As a result, even if the decoding results are obtained because the plurality of information codes are simultaneously imaged, not only the decoding results of the information codes not included in the reading area Ps are output, but also two or more information codes are not output. Is included in the predetermined reading area Ps, the decoding result is not output. That is, even if a plurality of information codes are imaged so that they can be decoded, the decoding result of the information code is output only when only the image of the information code to be read is included in the reading area Ps. It is possible to limit the output of the decoding result of the information code read unintentionally, such as the decoding result of another information code captured while the reading port 50 is directed to the information code to be the target.

In particular, when all the images of one information code for which the decoding result is obtained are included in the predetermined reading area Ps, and at least a part of the images of the other information codes is not included, the above 1 The decoding result of one information code is output.

As a result, as described above, even if only a part of the images of the information code not to be read is included in the reading area Ps while the reading port 50 is being directed to the information code to be read. The decoding result of the information code not to be read is not output. Further, even if all the images of the information code not to be read are included in the reading area Ps, if at least a part of the images of the information code to be read is included in the reading area Ps, respectively. The decoding result of is not output. Therefore, even when another information code is arranged near the information code to be read, it is possible to easily output the decoding result of the information code to be read.

Depending on the work environment and the like, in the determination process of step S509, the read area Ps includes all the images of one information code for which the decoding result is obtained, and the images of other information codes. When not all are included, it may be determined that the single code imaging state is in effect. Further, when the reading area Ps includes at least a part of the image of one information code for which the decoding result is obtained and at least a part of the image of the other information code is not included. , It may be determined that it is in the single code imaging state.

As a modification of the present embodiment, when an information code having a specific pattern arranged at a specific position in a code area where various cells are arranged is targeted for reading, such as an FP pattern of a QR code, the above In the determination process of step S509, it may be determined whether or not the image is in the single code imaging state by using the image of the specific pattern. That is, when the image of the specific pattern of one information code for which the decoding result is obtained is included in the reading area Ps and the image of the specific pattern of another information code is not included, the above-mentioned one information The decoding result of the code may be output.

Specifically, for example, the reading area Ps includes all the images of the specific pattern of the information code for which the decoding result is obtained, and does not include any image of the specific pattern of the other information code. When it is in the state, it may be determined that it is in the single code imaging state. In this case, for example, as illustrated in FIG. 51, the images of all the specific patterns FP1 to FP3 of the QR code Cf are included in the reading area Ps, and the images of the specific patterns FP1 and FP2 of the QR code Cg are included. In the state including, it is determined that the state is not a single code imaging state.

As a result, in the determination process of step S509, it can be determined whether or not the image of the information code is included in the predetermined reading area based on the specific pattern of the information code that is easy to recognize, so that the determination can be made easily and accurately. be able to.

[14th Embodiment]
Next, the optical information reading device according to the 14th embodiment of the present invention will be described below.
The 14th embodiment is mainly different from the 4th embodiment in that when the marker light is not captured, the decoding result of the information code located in the decoding target area in the captured image is output.

When one or two or more other information codes are arranged around the information code to be read and a plurality of information codes are imaged at the same time so that they can be decoded, the information code to be read is decoded. The result may be output, and the decoding result of other information codes may not be output.

In such a case, conventionally, by providing the marker light irradiation unit 29 that irradiates the marker light Lm toward the center of the imaging field of view, it is easy to put only the information code to be read into the imaging field of view, and the information is provided. Only the decoding result of the code is output. However, when a plurality of information codes including the information code to be read are displayed on the screen, the irradiated marker light is not reflected on the display screen that emits light by itself, and therefore, among the plurality of information codes imaged by the reading device. There is a problem that it is not known which information code is to be read. Specifically, for example, when the distributed information code for the coupon is displayed on the screen on a smartphone or the like so as to be adjacent to another information code, the marker light is not imaged, so that the information code for the coupon is decoded. It may not be possible to obtain only the results.

Therefore, in the reading process performed in the present embodiment, when the light receiving sensor 28, the imaging lens 27, and the like function as an imaging unit and the marker light Lm is not detected from the image captured image P captured by the imaging unit, Outputs the decoding result of the information code that is the information code determined to be located in the decoding target area Pd corresponding to a part of the captured image P and that is the preset code type (designated code type). To do. In the present embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 52 and 53, the decoding target area Pd is preset in an area on the back side of the entire captured image P when viewed from the user. This is because the user who grips the housing 11 tries to hold the reading port 50 over the information code to be read with reference to the one side edge portion 52 located far away from the peripheral edge 51 of the reading port 50. Further, the designated code type can be set to, for example, EAN-13.

Hereinafter, in the present embodiment, the reading process performed by the control circuit 40 will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 54.
When the reading process is started in response to a predetermined operation or the like, the imaging process of step S601 shown in FIG. 54 is performed, and the captured image P for decoding the information code is captured by the imaging unit. Subsequently, in the marker light detection process of step S603, a process for detecting the marker light Lm from the captured image P is performed, and then in the decoding process of step S605, the information code included in the captured image P is decoded. The process from step S601 is repeated until the process is performed and the decoding is successful (No in S607). The control circuit 40 that executes the decoding process in step S605 may correspond to an example of the “decoding unit”.

Then, when the decoding is successful and the decoding result is obtained (Yes in S607), it is determined in the determination process of step S609 whether or not a plurality of decoding results are obtained according to the decoding process. Here, when one decoding result is obtained, it is determined as No in the determination process of step S609, the first decoding result output process of step S617 is performed, and all the decodings obtained by the decoding process are performed. The result is output to the host device. When one decoding result is obtained as described above, the one decoding result is output to a higher-level device or the like in the first decoding result output process. The control circuit 40 that executes the first decoding result output processing and the second decoding result output processing may correspond to an example of the “output unit”.

On the other hand, when a plurality of decoding results are obtained (Yes in S609), whether or not the marker light Lm is detected from the captured image P by the marker light detection process described above in the determination process of step S611. Is judged about. Here, when the marker light Lm is detected from the captured image P (Yes in S611), it is assumed that the information code printed on the paper medium is read instead of the information code displayed on the screen. All the decoding results obtained by the decoding process are output to the host device or the like (S617).

On the other hand, even when a plurality of decoding results are obtained (Yes in S609), if the marker light Lm is not detected from the captured image P (No in S611), the determination process in step S613 is performed. Therefore, it is determined whether or not one information code for which the decoding result is obtained is located in the decoding target area Pd. The control circuit 40 that executes the determination process in step S613 can correspond to an example of a "code position determination unit" that determines whether or not the decoded information code is located in the decoding target area Pd.

Here, as illustrated in FIGS. 52 and 53, when one information code for which the decoding result is obtained is located in the decoding target area Pd, it is determined as Yes in step S613. In this case, in the determination process of step S615, it is determined whether or not the code type of the information code located in the decoding target area Pd is a preset code type (designated code type). Here, when the code type of the information code located in the decoding target area Pd is the specified code type (for example, EAN-13), it is determined as Yes in step S615, and the second decoding result in step S619. Output processing is done. In this process, among the plurality of decoding results obtained by the decoding process in step S605, the decoding results of the information code of the designated code type and located in the decoding target area Pd are output to the host device or the like. In the examples of FIGS. 52 and 53, even if the barcodes Cc, Cd, and Ce are successfully decoded, only the decoding result of the code Cc located in the decoding target area Pd is output to the host device or the like.

On the other hand, when the code type of the information code located in the decoding target area Pd is not the specified code type (No in S615), or no information code for which the decoding result is obtained is located in the decoding target area Pd. In this case (No in S613), all the decoding results obtained by the above decoding process are output to a higher-level device or the like (S617).

As described above, in the optical information reading device 10 according to the present embodiment, when the marker light Lm is not imaged by the imaging unit (No in S611), it is placed in the decoding target area Pd by the determination process in step S613. The decoding result of the information code determined to be located and determined to be the designated code type in the determination process of step S615 is output (S619).

In this way, when the marker light Lm is not imaged by the imaging unit, it is assumed that the information code displayed on the screen is being read, and the decoding result of the information code determined to be located in the decoding target area Pd is output. By doing so, the decoding result of the information code outside the decoding target area Pd is not output. That is, by holding the reading port 50 over the screen so that only the information code to be read is located in the decoding target area Pd among the plurality of information codes displayed on the screen, other information codes displayed on the same screen. It is possible to output the decoding result of the information code to be read without outputting the decoding result of the information code. Then, even if only the information code not to be read is located in the decoding target area Pd in the captured image when the reading port 50 is held over the information code to be read, the code type of the information code not to be read is set in advance. By different from the code type, it is possible to prevent the decoding result of the information code not to be read from being output.

Further, when one decoding result is obtained from one captured image by the decoding process (No in S609), it is not necessary to determine whether or not the information code is the reading target, so that the marker light Lm is used. One of the decoding results is output regardless of whether or not the image is captured. This eliminates the need for processing for determining whether or not the marker light Lm is detected from the captured image, and can reduce the processing load on the output of the decoding result.

[15th Embodiment]
Next, the optical information reading device according to the fifteenth embodiment of the present invention will be described below.
The fifteenth embodiment is mainly different from the fourth embodiment in that the double-reading prevention setting cancellation condition is changed.

Conventionally, when reading a plurality of information codes in which the same decoding result is recorded in succession, a release operation for removing the information code from the imaging field of view is required in order to cancel the double reading prevention function. Then, in a reading device having an imaging unit having a large imaging field of view such as an area sensor, there is a problem that the operation of the user required for the release operation becomes large. For example, in cashier payments at convenience stores and other stores, when the barcode attached to one product is repeatedly read according to the number of products purchased when purchasing multiple identical products, the double-reading prevention function is canceled. In addition, the store clerk needs to repeat the operation of pointing the reading port at a plain background where the information code is not imaged and the operation of pointing the reading port at the barcode of the product, and the operation that is not expected in the original operation must be performed. There was a problem that did not become.

Therefore, in the reading process performed in the present embodiment, it is premised that the decoding result read from the information code is output in a state where the marker light is irradiated toward the information code (hereinafter, also referred to as a code irradiation state). If it is determined that the code is not in the code irradiation state after the decoding result is output, the double reading prevention setting is canceled. As a result, the double-reading prevention setting is canceled by the operation of removing the marker light from the information code in which the decoding result is output, so that the user's operation required for the cancellation operation can be reduced.

Hereinafter, in the present embodiment, the reading process performed by the control circuit 40 will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 55.
When the reading process is started in response to a predetermined operation or the like, the image pickup process of step S701 shown in FIG. 55 is performed, and the information code is decoded by the image pickup unit including the light receiving sensor 28 and the imaging lens 27. The captured image P is captured. Subsequently, in the decoding process of step S703, a process for decoding the information code included in the captured image P is performed, and the process from step S701 is repeated until the decoding is successful (No in S705). The control circuit 40 that executes the decoding process in step S703 can correspond to an example of the “decoding unit”.

Then, when the decoding is successful and the decoding result is obtained (Yes in S705), in the determination process of step S707, the decoding result obtained in the above decoding process matches the previously output decoding result (hereinafter, , Also referred to as the decoding result matching state). Here, if the decoding is successful for the first time after the start of the reading process, or if the decoding result does not match the previously output decoding result, the determination process in step S707 determines No. The control circuit 40 that executes the determination process in step S707 may correspond to an example of the “decoding result determination unit”.

In this case, in the determination process of step S709, it is determined whether or not the marker light Lm is in the code irradiation state of being irradiated toward the information code, and the marker is within the code region occupied by the information code in the captured image P. Since at least a part of the light Lm is contained, it is determined as Yes in the code irradiation state. Then, the decoding result output processing of step S711 is performed, and the decoding result obtained by the decoding processing is output to a higher-level device or the like. The control circuit 40 that executes the decoding result output process can correspond to an example of the “output unit”.

When the decoding result is output in this way, the read prevention setting process is performed twice in step S713, and then the process from step S701 is performed. On the other hand, when the marker light Lm is not included in the code region occupied by the information code in the captured image P, it is assumed that the code is not irradiated (No in S709), and the decoding result is not output, and the above step S701 is performed. Processing is done. The control circuit 40 that executes the double-reading prevention setting process can correspond to an example of the “double-reading prevention setting unit”.

On the other hand, if the decoding result obtained in the above decoding process is in a decoding result matching state that matches the previously output decoding result (Yes in S707), the marker light Lm is used as the information code in the determination process in step S715. It is determined whether or not the code irradiation state is irradiated toward. Here, if the marker light Lm does not deviate from the information code that outputs the decoding result, it is determined that the code irradiation state is Yes in step S715. In this case, in the determination process of step S717, it is determined whether or not the double-reading prevention is being set, and if it is determined as Yes because the double-reading prevention is set, the decoding result is output. The process from step S701 is performed without being performed. The control circuit 40 that executes the determination process in step S715 may correspond to an example of the “marker irradiation state determination unit”.

In this way, the decoding result is in the decoding result matching state that matches the previously output decoding result, and while the code irradiation state in which the marker light Lm is irradiated toward the information code continues (Yes in S707 and S715). , The decoding result will not be output unless the read protection is canceled twice.

On the other hand, even if the decoding result is in the decoding result matching state that matches the previously output decoding result (Yes in S707), if the marker light Lm is removed from the information code (No in S715), step S719. The double-reading prevention setting is canceled and the double-reading prevention setting is canceled. In this way, after the double-reading prevention setting is canceled, the processing from step S701 is performed, and when the information code from which the decoding result is output is irradiated with the marker light Lm again (Yes in S715), it is twice. Since the read prevention setting is canceled (No in S717), the decoding result is output (S711).

A specific example in which the double-reading prevention setting is canceled in this way will be described with reference to FIGS. 56A to 56C. It is assumed that the QR codes Cf and Cg to be read are arranged so as to be adjacent to each other and the same information is recorded.

When the decoding process is performed on the captured image P shown in FIG. 56 (A) and the decoding result of the QR code Cf irradiated with the marker light Lm is output, the double-reading prevention setting is made (S713). ), The decoding result of the QR code Cf is not output again while the code irradiation state in which the marker light Lm is irradiated to the QR code Cf continues. After that, as shown in the captured image P shown in FIG. 56 (B), by moving the optical information reading device 10 so that the reading port 50 points toward the QR code Cg, the marker light Lm deviates from the QR code Cf ( No) in S715, the double-reading prevention setting is canceled (S719). Then, as shown in the captured image P shown in FIG. 56 (C), when the QR code Cg is irradiated with the marker light Lm and the decoding is successful, even if the decoding results are in the matching state (Yes in S707), the QR code is read twice. Since the prevention setting is canceled (No in S717), the decoding result is output (S711).

As described above, in the optical information reading device 10 according to the present embodiment, when it is determined that the code irradiation state is not obtained after the decoding result is output (No in S715), the double reading prevention setting is canceled. (S719). Then, when the double-reading prevention setting is set (Yes in S717), the decoding result determined to be in the decoding result matching state is excluded from the output target, and when the double-reading prevention setting is canceled (S717). No), even if the decoding result is determined to be in the decoding result matching state, it is output as an output target (S711).

In this way, if it is determined that the code is not in the code irradiation state after the decoding result is output, the double reading prevention setting is canceled, and the marker light Lm is read twice by removing the marker light Lm from the information code in which the decoding result is output. Since the prevention setting is canceled, the user's operation required for the release operation can be reduced.

[16th Embodiment]
Next, the optical information reading device according to the 16th embodiment of the present invention will be described below.
The 16th embodiment is mainly different from the 15th embodiment in that the double-reading prevention setting cancellation condition is changed so as not to be canceled unnecessarily.

As in the fifteenth embodiment, if the marker light Lm is removed from the information code for which the decoding result is output and the read prevention setting is canceled twice, the information code for which the marker light Lm is once removed due to camera shake or the like is irradiated again. As a result, double reading may occur unintentionally by the user.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, the marker light Lm is not irradiated toward the code peripheral area Ac with reference to the code peripheral area Ac including the code area constituting the information code, and the double reading is prevented. By canceling the setting, it is possible to suppress the cancellation of unnecessary double-reading prevention settings.

Hereinafter, in the present embodiment, the reading process performed by the control circuit 40 will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 57. In the present embodiment, the outer edge of the code peripheral area Ac is separated from the outer edge of the code area constituting the information code by a distance corresponding to a preset number of cells (hereinafter, also referred to as a peripheral distance Ad). However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, it may be set so as to be separated from the outer edge of the code area by a distance corresponding to a preset pixel amount.

The reading process is started in the same manner as in the fifteenth embodiment, the decoding is successful (Yes in S705 of FIG. 57), and the decoding result obtained by the decoding process matches the previously output decoding result. If it is in the matching state (Yes in S707), whether or not the marker light Lm is irradiated toward the cord peripheral region Ac in the determination process in step S715a (hereinafter, also referred to as the cord peripheral irradiation state). It is judged.

Here, if at least a part of the marker light Lm is not deviated from the code peripheral region Ac set for the information code that outputs the decoding result, it is determined that the code peripheral irradiation state is Yes in step S715a. , The processing after step S717 is performed.

On the other hand, if the marker light Lm deviates from the code peripheral region Ac set for the information code that outputs the decoding result, it is determined as No in step S715a as not in the code peripheral irradiation state, and the double reading prevention setting is canceled. (S719).

A specific example in which the double-reading prevention setting is canceled in this way will be described with reference to FIGS. 58 (A) to 58 (C).
When the decoding result of the QR code Cf irradiated with the marker light Lm is output as in the captured image P shown in FIG. 58 (A), the double reading prevention setting is made (S713), and the QR code Cf is set. The decoding result of the QR code Cf is not output again while the code irradiation state in which the marker light Lm is irradiated continues. At that time, as shown in the captured image P shown in FIG. 58 (B), even if the marker light Lm deviates from the QR code Cf due to camera shake or the like, if at least a part is contained in the code peripheral region Ac, the cord peripheral irradiation is performed. Even if it is in the state (Yes in S715a), the double-reading prevention setting is not canceled. Then, as shown in the captured image P shown in FIG. 58 (C), when the marker light Lm deviates from the cord peripheral region Ac, it is assumed that the cord peripheral irradiation state is not obtained (No in S715a), and the double reading prevention setting is released. (S719).

As described above, in the optical information reading device 10 according to the present embodiment, after the decoding result is output, the marker light Lm irradiates the code peripheral region Ac including the code region constituting the information code. When it is determined that the state is not set (No in S715a), the double-reading prevention setting is canceled (S719).

As a result, it is possible to prevent the double-reading prevention setting from being accidentally canceled due to camera shake or the like, and it is possible to enhance the robustness against camera shake or the like.

As a modification of the present embodiment, the code peripheral region Ac may be set so that the size of the information code changes according to the size of the information code occupying the captured image P.

If the size of the information code and the code peripheral area Ac occupying the captured image becomes large, the user's operation required for the operation of removing the marker light Lm from the code peripheral area Ac may become large. Therefore, for example, when the information code is imaged in a relatively large size, the size of the code peripheral area Ac is set to be relatively small, and the code peripheral area is set according to the size of the information code in the captured image P. By changing the size of the Ac, it is possible to prevent the user's movement required for the release operation from becoming large.

For example, as in the captured image P illustrated in FIG. 59 (A), when the size of the information code occupying the captured image P becomes large, the peripheral distance Ad is shortened so that the code peripheral region Ac with respect to the information code Can be made smaller. Further, for example, when the size of the information code occupying the captured image P becomes small as in the captured image P illustrated in FIG. 59 (B), the peripheral distance Ad is lengthened to be around the code with respect to the information code. The region Ac can be increased.

More specifically, for example, every time the decoding is successful, the ratio of the code region constituting the successfully decoded information code to the captured image P (hereinafter, also referred to as the code ratio Ap) is obtained, and FIG. By referring to the preset table as illustrated, the code peripheral area Ac can be set so that the peripheral distance Ad corresponds to the obtained code ratio Ap.
In the example of FIG. 60, if the code ratio Ap is 7%, the code peripheral area Ac is set so that the peripheral distance Ad is the number of “15” cells, and if the code ratio Ap is 18%, the peripheral distance Ad is set. The code peripheral area Ac is set so that the number of cells is "5".

[17th Embodiment]
Next, the optical information reading device according to the 17th embodiment of the present invention will be described below.
The 17th embodiment is mainly different from the 1st embodiment in that the necessity of decoding processing is determined according to the presence or absence of an image change in a part of the image.

Conventionally, in order to prevent double reading, when a decoding result is obtained according to the decoding process for the captured image, a process of comparing the decoded result with the previously output decoded result has been performed. In the process of comparing the decoding results each time the decoding results are obtained in this way, if the reading port is moved quickly, the information code may be missed. In particular, in a reading device having an imaging unit having a large imaging field of view such as an area sensor, as illustrated in FIG. 61, it is necessary for an image analysis process for confirming whether the captured image contains a decodeable information code. As a result of the long processing time and the long reading cycle due to the decoding processing, the above problem becomes even more remarkable.

In FIG. 61, the image captured in the second imaging (time t11 in FIG. 61) includes a decodeable information code, and in the third imaging (time t12 in FIG. 61) after the decoding result is output. Since the same decoding result was obtained from the captured image of, the decoding result is not output, and a different decoding result is obtained and output from the captured image at the fourth imaging (time t13 in FIG. 61). ing.

Therefore, in the scanning process performed in the present embodiment, after the decoding result is output, the image changes for a part of the image Pb corresponding to a part of the image P captured by the imaging unit (a predetermined range set in advance). It is determined whether or not it is in a state deemed not to be performed (hereinafter, also referred to as a partial image matching state), and if it is in a partial image matching state, the decoding process is not performed. When the image is partially matched, that is, when the image is almost unchanged and the optical information reading device 10 is not expected to move so as to remove the reading port 50 from the information code obtained from the decoding result. By not performing the image analysis process or the decoding process, the reading cycle is shortened, so that it is possible to suppress the omission of the information code.

Specifically, in the present embodiment, the range occupied by the light color system and the dark color system are defined with respect to the partial image Pb captured in the imaging process this time and the partial image Pb captured in the previous imaging process. The ratios to the occupied range are calculated and compared, and when the difference between the calculated values is within a predetermined value, it is determined that the image is partially matched. The determination regarding the partial image matching state is not limited to the determination based on the ratio between the range occupied by the light color system and the range occupied by the dark color system, and may be determined based on other image feature points. ..

In particular, in the present embodiment, a part of the image Pb is set so that the range occupied by the captured image P corresponds to the central portion of the captured image P. Therefore, when the QR code Cf is imaged as in the captured image P illustrated in FIG. 62 (A), the partial image Pb is set as shown in FIG. 62 (B), for example.

Hereinafter, in the present embodiment, the reading process performed by the control circuit 40 will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.
When the reading process is started in response to a predetermined operation or the like, the partial image imaging process of step S801 shown in FIG. 63 is performed, and the imaging unit including the light receiving sensor 28, the imaging lens 27, etc., as described above. A part of the image Pb is imaged according to the capture in the range set to.

Subsequently, when the captured partial image Pb is analyzed by the partial image analysis process shown in step S803, the partial image Pb changes from the previous partial image Pb in the determination process of step S805. It is determined whether or not there is a partial image matching state that is considered not to be present. The control circuit 40 that executes the determination process in step S805 can correspond to an example of the “image state determination unit”.

Here, in the state where the decoding result is not output in the first imaging, it is determined that No in step S805 because it is not in the partial image matching state, and the double reading prevention setting is canceled (S807). The whole image imaging process of step S809 is performed, and the captured image P is captured. Subsequently, the entire image analysis process of step S811 is performed, and it is confirmed whether or not the captured image P includes a decodable information code.

If the captured image P does not include a decodable information code, it is determined that the information code has not been imaged and the determination process in step S813 determines No, and the process from step S801 is performed. .. On the other hand, when the captured image P includes an information code that can be decoded, it is determined that the image code is being imaged and the determination process in step S813 is Yes, and the decoding process in step S815 describes the above. A process for decoding the information code included in the captured image P is performed. The control circuit 40 that executes the decoding process in step S815 can correspond to an example of the “decoding unit”.

Subsequently, in the determination process of step S817, it is determined whether or not the decoding result obtained by the above decoding process is in a decoding result matching state that matches the previously output decoding result. Here, if the decoding result is first obtained after the reading process is started or a decoding result different from the previous one is obtained, it is assumed that the decoding result does not match (No in S817), and the decoding result in step S819. The output process is performed, and the decoding result obtained by the decoding process is output to a higher-level device or the like. The control circuit 40 that executes the decoding result output process can correspond to an example of the “output unit”.

When the decoding result is output in this way, after the read prevention setting process is performed twice in step S821, if the read end operation or the like is not performed (No in S823), the process from step S801 is performed. Be done.

Immediately after the decoding result is output, the state in which the reading port 50 is directed to the information code from which the decoding result is output is maintained, so that the captured partial image Pb is from the previous partial image Pb. It is determined as Yes in the determination process of step S805 on the assumption that the partial image matching state is considered to have not changed. In this case, the process from step S801 is performed without canceling the double-reading prevention setting. That is, when the image change of a part of the image Pb is small, it is assumed that the reading port 50 is still directed to the information code to which the decoding result is output, and the determination of Yes is repeated in step S805, and the decoding process is performed. Will not be done. As described above, the reading cycle is shortened by continuing the image analysis processing of a part of the image Pb without performing the image analysis processing of the entire captured image P.

After that, since the reading port 50 was directed to the next information code, when the result that the captured partial image Pb was considered to be changed from the previous partial image Pb was obtained, in step S805, After the determination is No and the double-reading prevention setting is canceled (S807), the entire image imaging process in step S809 is performed.

Hereinafter, a specific example in which the reading cycle is shortened will be described with reference to the time chart shown in FIG.
Similar to FIG. 61, the image captured in the second imaging (time t21 in FIG. 64) contains a decodeable information code, and when the third imaging is performed after the decoding result is output (time in FIG. 64). t22), it is determined whether or not the partial image Pb is in a partial image matching state. Then, since it was determined that the partial image was in the matching state (Yes in S805), the fourth imaging was performed (time t23 in FIG. 64), and the partial image Pb was also determined to be in the partial image matching state. Then (Yes in S805), the fifth image is taken (time t24 in FIG. 64). When it is determined in the partial image Pb that the partial image does not match (No in S805), the captured image P is captured at the sixth time (S809: time t25 in FIG. 64), and the entire captured image P is captured. The whole image analysis process is performed so as to analyze the above (S811). In this way, from the third imaging to the fifth imaging, image analysis is performed on some image Pb and not all image analysis processing is performed, so that the reading cycle is shortened as compared with the example of FIG. can do.

As described above, in the optical information reading device 10 according to the present embodiment, when the decoding result is output, the image of the partial image Pb corresponding to a part of the captured image P by the imaging unit is not changed. All image analysis processing and decoding processing are not performed until it is determined that a partial image matching state is considered.

Therefore, when the decoding result is output, the image analysis processing and the decoding processing of the entire captured image are not performed unless a state in which a part of the image Pb is considered to be changed is not performed. It is not necessary to perform a process of comparing the decoding results for each image capture to prevent reading. As a result, not only the processing load for preventing double reading can be reduced, but also the processing time can be shortened, so that the reading cycle can be shortened.

Note that the range occupied by the captured image P is not limited to the central portion of the captured image P, and the partial image Pb may be set to another range of the captured image P. Further, as illustrated in FIG. 65, the range occupied by the captured image P of the partial image Pb may be set based on the position of the marker light Lm on the captured image P.

Further, the range occupied by the captured image P of some images Pb may be set based on the information code that was successfully decoded last time. For example, a part of the image Pb may be set so as to match the code area of the information code that was successfully decoded last time. As a result, by setting the range of the partial image Pb occupying the captured image P based on the position of the information code that was successfully decoded last time, the partial image Pb described above is based on the brightness and darkness of each cell constituting the information code. Since it can be determined whether or not is changed, the determination accuracy can be improved.

[18th Embodiment]
Next, the optical information reading device according to the 18th embodiment of the present invention will be described below.
The 18th embodiment is mainly different from the 4th embodiment in that the assembling property is improved with respect to the protective structure of the edge portion constituting the reading port.

Conventionally, in a portable optical information reading device, a protective member such as rubber is attached to the edge portion constituting the reading port for the purpose of protecting against dropping or the like and protecting the display screen on which the information code to be read is displayed. .. This protective member is usually assembled by hooking it at an engaging portion or the like provided on the edge portion in order to prevent it from being easily disengaged after being assembled on the edge portion. On the other hand, in the configuration using the engaging portion as described above, it is difficult to realize a strong assembly without inviting an increase in size. Therefore, when miniaturization or a strong assembly is required, , The protective member is attached to the edge by using an adhesive member such as double-sided tape.

However, in a protective structure that requires an assembly work in which the protective member is pushed into the edge portion to be bonded, it is necessary to prevent a part different from the bonded portion from being adhered to the double-sided tape or the like during assembly. There is a problem that the work becomes complicated.

Therefore, in the optical information reading device according to the present embodiment, the tip side is projected from the portion where the adhesive portion of the edge portion is arranged, and the bonded portion of the protective member that overcomes the protruding portion adheres to the edge portion. Adopt a protective structure that adheres to the part.

Specifically, like the optical information reading device 200 shown in FIG. 66, the protective member 260 that elastically sandwiches and protects the edge portion 251 constituting the reading port 250 from both the outside and the inside. Is assembled. In FIG. 66, the vicinity of the edge portion 251 to which the protective member 260 is assembled (see the inside of the frame of the alternate long and short dash line in FIG. 66) is shown in an enlarged cross section.

The protective member 260 is a connecting portion 290 that elastically connects the outer protective portion 270 that covers the outer side of the edge portion 251 and the inner protective portion 280 that covers the inner side of the edge portion 251 and the outer protective portion 270 and the inner protective portion 280. And are configured to have.

Further, on the outside of the edge portion 251, an adhesive portion 252 to which the outer protective portion 270 is adhered and a protruding portion 253 located on the tip side of the adhesive portion 252 and projecting outward from the adhesive portion 252 are provided. .. The protruding portion 253 is formed so that the protruding height to the outside increases as it approaches the adhesive portion 252. Further, the protruding portion 253 is arranged so that the end surface 253a on the adhesive portion 252 side is close to perpendicular to the assembling direction (see arrow α in FIG. 67 (A) described later) for assembling the protective member 260 to the edge portion 251. It is formed. In the present embodiment, the double-sided tape is adopted as the adhesive portion 252, and is arranged in the groove portion provided in the vicinity of the end surface 253a of the protruding portion 253. The double-sided tape is not limited to the adhesive portion 252, and for example, an adhesive or the like may be adopted.

Then, the outer protective portion 270 is a thin-walled facing portion that faces the bonded portion 271 that is adhered to the bonded portion 252 and the protruding portion 253 at the time of bonding between the bonded portion 271 and the bonded portion 252 with a slight gap. It is formed to have a portion 272 and.

The assembly of the protective member 260 to the edge portion 251 configured in this way will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 67A to 67C.
When assembling the protective member 260 to the edge portion 251 first, as shown in FIG. 67 (A), the outer protective portion 270 and the inner protective portion 280 are combined so that the bonded portion 271 and the protruding portion 253 come into contact with each other. The edge 251 is inserted between the two. By pushing the protective member 260 into which the edge portion 251 is inserted in this way along the assembly direction α in FIG. 67 (A), the bonded portion 271 is not adhered to the bonded portion 252 and the protruding portion 253. The state of sliding contact with is maintained.

Then, by further pushing the protective member 260, as shown in FIG. 67 (B), when the bonded portion 271 gets over the protruding portion 253, the outer protective portion 270 is protected inside according to the elastic force of the connecting portion 290 and the like. The bonded portion 271 is adhered to the bonded portion 252 in order to approach the portion 280 (see FIG. 67 (C)).

In this way, the bonded portion 271 is not adhered to the bonded portion 252 until it gets over the protruding portion 253. Since it is not adhered, the assembly work can be easily carried out.

In particular, since the protruding portion 253 is formed so that the protruding height becomes higher as it approaches the bonded portion 252, the bonded portion 271 can easily get over the protruding portion 253, further facilitating the assembling work. Can be planned.

Further, the protruding portion 253 is formed so that the end surface 253a on the adhesive portion 252 side is close to perpendicular to the assembling direction α (see FIG. 67 (A)) for assembling the protective member 260 to the edge portion 251. As a result, even if the protective member 260 tries to come off from the bonded edge portion 251 but the bonded portion 271 hits the end surface 253a of the protruding portion 253 and is difficult to come off, the protective member 260 should be firmly assembled to the edge portion 251. Can be done.

As a modification of the present embodiment, an adhesive portion may be further provided on the inner protective portion 280a as in the protective member 260a and the edge portion 251a illustrated in FIG. 68. Specifically, inside the edge portion 251a, the second adhesive portion 254 to which the inner protective portion 280a is adhered and the tip side of the second adhesive portion 254 are located inside the second adhesive portion 254. A second protruding portion 255 is provided, and the inner protective portion 280a includes a second bonded portion 281 bonded to the second bonded portion 254, and the second bonded portion 281 and the second bonded portion 254. Is formed so as to have a thin-walled second facing portion 282 facing the second protruding portion 255 with a slight gap at the time of bonding.

Then, the second bonded portion 281 is arranged so as to get over the second protruding portion 255 when the bonded portion 271 gets over the protruding portion 253.

As a result, the assembling work can be easily carried out even with the protective member 260a that adheres not only to the outside of the edge but also to the inside in order to increase the adhesive force.

Note that the characteristic configurations of the present embodiment and the modified example that protect the edge of the reading port can be applied to other embodiments.

[Other Embodiments]
The present invention is not limited to the above embodiments and modifications, and may be embodied as follows, for example.
(1) The reading port 50 that takes in the reflected light from the information code is not limited to being formed so as to open in a substantially trapezoidal shape as described above, and other opening shapes, for example, one side edge portion 52, etc. It may be formed so as to open in a T shape longer than the side edge portion 53. Even when the reading port 50 is configured in this way, the longitudinal LT, that is, the body of the grip portion 13, is located at the one side edge portion 52 farthest from the grip portion 13 of the peripheral edge 51 in the longitudinal direction LT. The above effect is obtained by providing the wall portion 56 that projects diagonally downward with respect to the portion.

(2) When reading the information code C displayed on the display surface R, the protruding end portion 56a is not limited to being brought into contact with the display surface R to read the information code C, and the protruding end portion 56a may be read depending on the usage environment or the like. The information code C may be read so as to be slightly floated from the display surface R.

(3) Further, the configurations according to the various aspects described above are not limited to being applied to an optical information reading device that optically and non-contactly reads an information code such as a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code, for example. , It may be applied to an optical information reading device capable of optically reading not only an information code but also character information and the like. Of course, when the information code C is displayed on the screen (display surface) of a mobile terminal such as a smartphone or the screen (display surface) of a computer monitor, the device for reading the information code C is an optical device according to the above-mentioned various aspects. An information reading device may be used.

(4) Further, the device is not limited to the optical information reading device 10 in which the reading process is performed according to a predetermined operation of the trigger switch 42, but is also used in the optical information reading device in which the reading process is constantly performed for a certain period of time. May be done.

10 ... Optical information reader 11 ... Housing 12 ... Reading part 12a ... Extension end 13 ... Grip 13 _TIP ... Tip side end in the longitudinal direction of the grip (one end)
21 ... Illumination light source (illumination unit)
27 ... Imaging lens (imaging unit)
28 ... Light receiving sensor (imaging unit)
50 ... Reading port 51 ... Peripheral 52 ... One side edge 56 ... Wall 57a, 57b ... Opposing part C ... Information code C1 ... Bar code (one-dimensional code)
C2 ... QR code (two-dimensional code)
Lf ... Illumination light R ... Display surface of the object to be read

Claims (41)

1. An imaging unit that captures an information code displayed or placed on the display surface,
   The lighting unit that irradiates the illumination light and
   A housing in which the image pickup unit and the illumination unit are housed therein, and a housing provided with a reading port for emitting the illumination light from the illumination unit and introducing the light from the information code into the inside.
   With
   An optical information reading device that captures and reads the information code with the imaging unit while the reading port is separated from the display surface.
   The housing is
   The reading unit on which the reading port is formed and
   A grip portion that is gripped when the reading port is directed toward the information code and is integrally formed with the reading portion.
   With
   The reading portion is configured to extend diagonally downward in the longitudinal direction from an end portion on one side in the longitudinal direction of the grip portion and have an extending end portion at the tip thereof.
   The extending end portion has the reading port and has the reading port.
   The reading port has a peripheral edge directed to the information code.
   The peripheral edge has one side edge away from the grip in the longitudinal direction.
   An optical information reading device characterized in that a wall portion projecting diagonally downward is provided on the one side edge portion.
2. The optical information reading device according to claim 1, wherein a pair of facing portions facing each other via the reading port and connected to the wall portion are provided on the peripheral edge of the reading port.
3. The optical information reading device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the illumination unit is arranged so as to irradiate the illumination light toward the wall portion.
4. The protrusion length from the one side edge portion to the protruding end portion of the wall portion corresponds to a distance suitable for imaging the information code displayed on the predetermined display surface in contact with the protruding end portion. The optical information reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the optical information reading device is formed so as to have a length.
5. The illumination unit includes first and second illumination units that irradiate the illumination light.
   The imaging unit includes a light receiving sensor and an imaging lens for collecting incident light incident through the reading port and forming an image on the light receiving surface of the light receiving sensor.
   Any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the imaging lens is arranged so as to be displaced from the light receiving surface of the light receiving sensor in a direction away from the first illumination unit and the second illumination unit. The optical information reader according to the above.
6. The reading port is provided with a protective member that protects the image pickup unit and the illumination unit.
   The protective member is formed with a first transmitting portion through which the illumination light is transmitted and a second transmitting portion through which the reflected light from the information code is transmitted.
   The housing is provided with a holding portion that holds the protective member so as to surround it from the outer surface side.
   The holding portion is formed so that the exposure width for exposing the first transmission portion to the outer surface side and the exposure width for exposing the second transmission portion to the outer surface side are smaller than the width of the user's finger. The optical information reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the optical information reading device is characterized.
7. The reading port is provided with a protective member that protects the image pickup unit and the illumination unit.
   The protective member transmits the first transmitting portion through which the illumination light is transmitted, the first annular portion that projects outward so as to surround the first transmitting portion in an annular shape, and the reflected light from the information code. The invention according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein a second penetrating portion and a second annular portion projecting outward so as to enclose the second transmissive portion in an annular shape are formed. Optical information reader.
8. A marker light irradiation unit that irradiates a marker light indicating an imaging field of view by the imaging unit,
   A marker imaging determination unit that determines whether or not the marker light is captured in a predetermined state in the image captured by the imaging unit.
   A lighting control unit that controls the lighting unit according to the determination result of the marker imaging determination unit,
   The optical information reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the optical information reading device is provided.
9. When the marker imaging determination unit determines that the lighting control unit is in the marker imaging state, the illumination control unit controls the lighting unit so that the illumination light is irradiated, and the marker imaging determination unit controls the marker imaging state. The optical information reading device according to claim 8, wherein if it is determined that the lighting unit is not, the lighting unit is controlled so as to stop the irradiation of the illumination light.
10. When the marker imaging determination unit determines that the lighting control unit is in the marker imaging state, the illumination control unit controls the lighting unit so that the illumination light is irradiated, and the marker imaging determination unit controls the marker imaging state. The eighth aspect of claim 8, wherein if it is determined that the lighting unit is not, the illumination unit is controlled so that the illumination light is irradiated in a state darker than in the case where it is determined that the marker is in the imaging state. Optical information reader.
11. An image change determination unit for determining whether or not the image captured by the image pickup unit has changed is provided.
    Claims 8 to 10, wherein the marker light irradiating unit irradiates the marker light when it is determined by the image change determining unit that the image captured by the imaging unit has changed. The optical information reader according to any one of the following items.
12. The marker imaging determination unit determines whether or not the marker light is in the marker imaging state in which the marker light is imaged in the predetermined state in a range of the captured image where the marker light may be imaged. The optical information reading device according to any one of claims 8 to 11.
13. A decoding unit that performs decoding processing for decoding the information code on the captured image captured by the imaging unit, and a decoding unit.
    When a plurality of decoding results can be obtained from one captured image by the decoding unit because a plurality of information codes are simultaneously imaged, a selection unit for selecting an output decoding result and a selection unit.
    With
    Any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the selection unit selects an output decoding result based on whether or not the selection determination information registered in advance is included in the decoding result. The optical information reader according to the above.
14. The optical information reading according to claim 13, wherein the selection determination information is at least one of a characteristic character string included in a predetermined URL and a characteristic character string included in a predetermined address. apparatus.
15. A decoding unit that performs decoding processing for decoding the information code on the captured image captured by the imaging unit, and a decoding unit.
    When a plurality of decoding results can be obtained from one captured image by the decoding unit because a plurality of information codes are simultaneously imaged, a selection unit for selecting an output decoding result and a selection unit.
    With
    The optical information reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the selection unit selects an output decoding result based on the code type of the information code that has been successfully decoded.
16. A decoding unit that performs decoding processing for decoding the information code on the captured image captured by the imaging unit, and a decoding unit.
    A processing unit for performing a predetermined process using the decoding result by the decoding unit, and
    When a plurality of decoding results can be obtained from one captured image by the decoding unit because a plurality of information codes are simultaneously imaged, it is determined whether or not two or more same decoding results are obtained. Different judgment part and
    With
    When it is determined by the decoding result same / different determination unit that two or more same decoding results are obtained, the processing unit performs the predetermined processing on one of the two or more same decoding results. The optical information reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized by this.
17. A storage unit for storing the decoding result of the predetermined processing performed by the processing unit is provided.
    When it is determined that two or more same decoding results are obtained by the decoding result same / different determination unit, the processing unit matches the same decoding result based on the information stored in the storage unit. The optical information according to claim 16, wherein the predetermined processing is performed on the decoding result when the predetermined processing is not performed by the processing unit within a predetermined reading number of times. Reader.
18. A storage unit is provided in which the decoding result by the decoding unit is stored together with the decoding time when the decoding process is completed.
    In the case where it is determined that two or more same decoding results are obtained by the decoding result same / different determination unit, the processing unit is associated with the decoding results matching the same decoding results and stored in the storage unit. The optical information reading device according to claim 16, wherein when the elapsed time from the stored decoding time becomes a predetermined time or more, the predetermined processing is performed on the decoding result.
19. A counting unit that counts the number of times that the information code successfully decoded by the decoding unit is removed from the imaging field of view of the imaging unit and reenters the imaging field of view as the number of imaging times.
    A storage unit is provided, in which the decoding result obtained by performing the predetermined processing by the processing unit is stored in association with the number of imaging times counted by the counting unit.
    When it is determined that two or more same decoding results are obtained by the decoding result same / different determination unit, the processing unit is associated with a decoding result matching the same decoding result and stored in the storage unit. The optical information reading device according to claim 16, wherein when the number of times of imaging to be stored becomes a predetermined number of times or more, the predetermined processing is performed on the decoding result.
20. With respect to the information code determined to have obtained two or more same decoding results by the decoding result same / different determination unit, the time when the information code is removed from the imaging field of view of the imaging unit is associated with the decoding result as a code exclusion time. Equipped with a storage unit that is stored
    In the case where it is determined that two or more same decoding results are obtained by the decoding result same / different determination unit, the processing unit is associated with a decoding result matching the same decoding result and stored in the storage unit. The optical information reading device according to claim 16, wherein when the elapsed time from the stored code exclusion time becomes a predetermined time or more, the predetermined processing is performed on the decoding result.
21. A posture detection unit for detecting the posture of the housing is provided.
    The processing unit determines that two or more same decoding results have been obtained by the decoding result same / different determination unit, and the posture of the housing detected by the posture detection unit is a predetermined posture. The optical information reading device according to claim 16, wherein when the state is in the state, the predetermined processing is performed on the decoding result.
22. An imaging unit that captures information codes and
    A code image detection unit that detects a code image for decoding the information code from an image captured by the imaging unit, and a code image detection unit.
    A decoding unit that performs decoding processing for decoding the information code with respect to the code image detected by the code image detection unit, and a decoding unit.
    A processing unit for performing a predetermined process using the decoding result by the decoding unit, and
    A notification unit for performing a predetermined notification according to the success of the decoding process,
    An optical information reader equipped with
    The code image detection unit detects the code image having the same information code in a plurality of continuously captured images continuously captured by the imaging unit.
    A reading target determination unit for determining whether or not the code image is a reading target according to a state in which the code image detected by the code image detecting unit occupies the captured image is provided.
    When the decoding result is obtained by successfully decoding the code image determined to be the reading target by the reading target determination unit, the processing unit uses the decoding result to perform the predetermined determination. The optical information reading device is characterized in that the notification unit performs the above-mentioned processing and performs the predetermined notification.
23. The reading target determination unit is the rest of the code image in the imaging field of view even when a portion corresponding to a part of the code image detected by the code image detecting unit is out of the imaging field of view of the imaging unit. The optical information reading device according to claim 22, wherein when the state of the above condition satisfies a predetermined condition, it is determined that the code image is a reading target.
24. If the decoding process of the code image when it is determined by the reading target determination unit to be the reading target is not successful and the decoding process of the code image is successful after the determination, the processing unit will perform the determination after the determination. The optical information reading device according to claim 22 or 23, wherein the predetermined processing is performed using the obtained decoding result, and the notification unit performs the predetermined notification.
25. A decoding unit that performs decoding processing for decoding the information code on the captured image captured by the imaging unit, and a decoding unit.
    An output unit for outputting the decoding result decoded by the decoding unit, and
    With
    The output unit includes an image of one information code for which a decoding result has been obtained by the decoding unit with respect to a predetermined reading area provided so as to occupy a part of the captured image, and other information. The optical information reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the decoding result of the one information code is output when the image of the code is not included.
26. The output unit includes all of the images of one information code for which the decoding result has been obtained by the decoding unit for the predetermined reading area, and includes at least a part of the images of the other information code. The optical information reading device according to claim 25, wherein the decoding result of the one information code is output when the result is not obtained.
27. The information code has a specific pattern and
    The output unit includes an image of the specific pattern of one information code obtained by the decoding unit for the predetermined reading area, and an image of the specific pattern of another information code. 25. The optical information reading device according to claim 25, wherein the decoding result of the one information code is output when is not included.
28. A marker light irradiating unit that irradiates a marker light toward an imaging field of view by the imaging unit,
    A decoding unit that performs decoding processing for decoding the information code on the captured image captured by the imaging unit, and a decoding unit.
    An output unit for outputting the decoding result decoded by the decoding unit, and
    A code position determination unit that determines whether or not the information code decoded by the decoding unit is located in a decoding target area corresponding to a part of the captured image, and
    With
    The output unit is characterized in that when the marker light is not imaged by the imaging unit, the output unit outputs the decoding result of the information code determined by the code position determining unit to be located in the decoding target area. The optical information reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 7.
29. When one decoding result is obtained from one captured image by the decoding unit, the output unit outputs the one decoding result regardless of whether or not the marker light is imaged. 28. The optical information reading device according to claim 28.
30. The output unit is an information code determined by the code position determination unit to be located in the decoding target area when the marker light is not imaged by the imaging unit, and is preset. The optical information reading device according to claim 28, wherein a decoding result of an information code as a code type is output.
31. A marker light irradiating unit that irradiates a marker light toward an imaging field of view by the imaging unit,
    A decoding unit that performs decoding processing for decoding the information code on the captured image captured by the imaging unit, and a decoding unit.
    A marker irradiation state determination unit that determines whether or not the marker light is being irradiated toward the information code from which the decoding result has been obtained, and a marker irradiation state determination unit.
    An output unit for outputting the decoding result of the information code determined to be in the state of being irradiated with the marker light by the marker irradiation state determination unit, and an output unit.
    A decoding result determination unit that determines whether or not the decoding result obtained by the decoding unit is in a decoding result matching state that matches the decoding result previously output from the output unit.
    Each time the decoding result is output from the output unit, the double-reading prevention setting unit that sets the double-reading prevention setting to prevent the decoding result that matches the previously output decoding result is output, and the double-reading prevention setting unit.
    With
    The double-reading prevention setting unit is not in a state in which the marker light is irradiated toward the information code for which the decoding result is obtained by the marker irradiation state determination unit after the decoding result is output from the output unit. If it is determined, the double-reading prevention setting is canceled and
    When the double reading prevention setting is performed by the double reading prevention setting unit, the output unit excludes the decoding result determined by the decoding result determination unit to be in the decoding result matching state as an output target. Claims 1 to 7, wherein when the double-reading prevention setting is canceled, even the decoding result determined by the decoding result determination unit to be in the decoding result matching state is output. The optical information reader according to any one of the above.
32. After the decoding result is output from the output unit, the double-reading prevention setting unit must be in a state where the marker light is irradiated toward the code peripheral area including the code area constituting the information code. The optical information reading device according to claim 31, wherein when the marker irradiation state determination unit determines the determination, the double-reading prevention setting is canceled.
33. The optical information reading device according to claim 32, wherein the code peripheral region is set so that the size of the information code changes according to the size of the information code in the captured image. ..
34. A decoding unit that performs decoding processing for decoding the information code on the captured image captured by the imaging unit, and a decoding unit.
    An output unit for outputting the decoding result decoded by the decoding unit, and
    An image state determination unit that determines whether or not a part of the image corresponding to a part of the image captured by the image pickup unit is in a partial image matching state in which the image is considered to have not changed.
    With
    The decoding unit is characterized in that, when the decoding result is output by the output unit, the decoding process is not performed until the image state determination unit determines that the partial image matching state is determined. 12. The optical information reader according to any one of paragraphs 12.
35. The optical information reading device according to claim 34, wherein the partial image has a range occupied by the captured image set in the central portion of the captured image.
36. A marker light irradiation unit for irradiating a marker light toward the center of the imaging field of view by the imaging unit is provided.
    The optical information reading device according to claim 34, wherein the partial image is set in a range occupied by the captured image with reference to the position of the marker light in the captured image.
37. The optical information reading device according to claim 34, wherein the partial image is set in a range occupied by the captured image based on an information code that was successfully decoded last time.
38. A protective member for elastically sandwiching and protecting the edge portion constituting the reading port from both the outside and the inside is provided.
    The protective member includes an outer protective portion that covers the outside of the edge portion, an inner protective portion that covers the inside of the edge portion, and a connecting portion that elastically connects the outer protective portion and the inner protective portion. Have and
    On the outside of the edge portion, an adhesive portion to which the outer protective portion is adhered and a protruding portion located on the tip side of the adhesive portion and protruding from the adhesive portion are provided.
    The outer protective portion is formed so as to have a bonded portion to be adhered to the bonded portion and a thin-walled facing portion facing the protruding portion when the bonded portion is bonded to the bonded portion. The optical information reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 21 and 25 to 37.
39. The optical information reading device according to claim 38, wherein the protruding portion is formed so that the protruding height becomes higher as it approaches the adhesive portion.
40. 38 or 39, wherein the protruding portion is formed so that the end surface on the adhesive portion side is close to perpendicular to the assembling direction in which the protective member is assembled to the edge portion. Optical information reader.
41. Inside the edge portion, a second adhesive portion to which the inner protective portion is adhered and a second projecting portion located on the tip side of the second adhesive portion and protruding from the second adhesive portion are provided. Be,
    The inner protective portion is a thin-walled second portion that faces the second protruding portion when the second bonded portion is bonded to the second bonded portion and the second bonded portion is bonded to the second bonded portion. The optical information reading device according to any one of claims 38 to 40, which is formed so as to have two facing portions.

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