Information code, information code generation device, and information code reading device

Abstract

An information code (Cd1) is obtained by superimposing a first code (Ci1) representing first information and a second code (Ct1) representing second information in a shared two-dimensional region, and then recorded. The first code (Ci1) is displayed in the two-dimensional region so as to be readable by discerning the luminance thereof through a first reading method. The second code (Ct1) is displayed in the two-dimensional region so as to be readable by a second reading method different from the first reading method by using the arrangement of a plurality of colors defined such that the discernment of the luminance through the first reading method becomes invariable. From among the first code (Ci1) and the second code (Ct1), the first code (Ci1), which is capable of being shown in a smaller display area when each data is presented uncompressed in an uncompressed format, is presented in the uncompressed format. The second code (Ct1) is presented in a compressed format in which the display area is compressed.

Description

Information code, information code generator, and information code reader CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is based on Patent Application No. 2023-135927 filed in Japan on August 23, 2023, and the contents of the original application are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0002] The disclosure of this specification relates to a technology for realizing highly convenient information codes.

[0003] The information code disclosed in Patent Document 1 records a first code representing first information and a second code representing second information superimposed in a common two-dimensional area.

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2021-196762

[0005] When the display area of ​​the first code and the display area of ​​the second code are different, simply superimposing the two codes requires the display area of ​​the larger code to be adjusted. However, when reusing the display layout of a code with a small display area and adding a code with a larger display area to that display layout, a problem occurs in that the superimposed information code does not fit into the display layout. For this reason, there is a demand for greater convenience.

[0006] One of the purposes of the disclosure of this specification is to provide a highly convenient information code, an information code generating device, and an information code reading device.

[0007] One aspect disclosed herein is an information code in which a first code representing first information and a second code representing second information are recorded superimposed in a common two-dimensional area, wherein the first code is displayed in the two-dimensional area so as to be readable by a first reading method for distinguishing brightness, and the second code is displayed in the two-dimensional area so as to be readable by a second reading method different from the first reading method using an arrangement of multiple colors defined so that the brightness distinction by the first reading method remains unchanged, and one of the first and second codes, which can be displayed in a smaller display area when represented in an uncompressed format in which the respective data is in an uncompressed state, is displayed in an uncompressed format, and the other code is displayed in a compressed format in which the display area is compressed.

[0008] Another disclosed aspect is an information code generating device that includes at least one processor and generates an information code in which a first code representing first information and a second code representing second information are superimposed and recorded in a common two-dimensional area, wherein the processor is configured to execute the following: generating a first code and a second code that can be read by determining the luminance using a first reading method; and in generating the first code and the second code, generating one of the first code and the second code in an uncompressed format, which can be expressed in a format with a smaller display area when the respective data is represented in an uncompressed format, and generating the other code in a compressed format with a compressed display area; and combining the first code and the second code based on a combination rule that enables the second code to be read by a second reading method different from the first reading method using an arrangement of multiple colors that is defined so that the luminance determination of the first code by the first reading method remains unchanged.

[0009] According to these aspects, an uncompressed format is adopted for one code, which can be displayed in a smaller display area when the respective data is represented in an uncompressed format, while a compressed format, which compresses the display area, is adopted for the other code. By creating a difference between the uncompressed and compressed formats, the difference between the display area of ​​the first code and the display area of ​​the second code can be reduced. The display area of ​​the superimposed information code can then be made the same as or closer to the one code, which can be displayed in a smaller display area. This improves the applicability of the superimposed information code to the display layout, thereby achieving high convenience.

[0010] Another disclosed aspect is an information code reading device having at least one processor, which reads an information code in which a first code representing first information and a second code representing second information are superimposed and recorded in a common two-dimensional area, the information code including white cells, black cells, light color cells, and dark color cells, wherein the processor is configured to: read the first code by determining the brightness using a first reading method that determines whether white cells and light color cells have the same value and whether black cells and dark color cells have the same value; and read the second code by determining the brightness using a second reading method that determines whether white cells and dark color cells have the same value and whether black cells and light color cells have the same value; and in at least one of reading the first code and reading the second code, identify a code represented in a compressed format in which the display area is compressed, and read information stored by one of the processors according to the compression aspect of the compressed format.

[0011] According to this aspect, when a code expressed in a compressed format in which the display area is compressed is identified, information is read according to the compression aspect of the compressed format. Therefore, when reading an information code in which the first code and the second code are superimposed, even if the data of at least one of these codes is expressed in a compressed format, it is possible to correctly obtain the information. Therefore, convenience can be improved.

[0012] Note that the symbols in parentheses included in the claims etc. are intended to exemplify the correspondence with the parts of the embodiments described below, and are not intended to limit the technical scope.

[0013] A diagram showing an item code, a tracking code, and a synthesized information code. A diagram showing a traceability system together with a distribution management system. A flowchart showing an example of a code generation process. A flowchart showing an example of a code reading process. A diagram explaining an item code, a tracking code, and a synthesized information code. A diagram showing a function pattern. A flowchart showing an example of a code generation process. A flowchart showing an example of a code reading process. A diagram showing an information code.

[0014] Hereinafter, several embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that corresponding components in each embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and redundant description may be omitted. When only a portion of the configuration is described in each embodiment, the configuration of another embodiment described previously can be applied to the remaining portion of the configuration. Furthermore, in addition to the combinations of configurations explicitly stated in the description of each embodiment, configurations of several embodiments can also be partially combined together even if not explicitly stated, as long as there is no particular problem with the combination.

[0015] First Embodiment As shown in FIG. 1 , an information code Cd1 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure is generated by a process of combining two two-dimensional codes. The information code Cd1 stores two two-dimensional codes superimposed on a common two-dimensional area. The two-dimensional code that forms the basis of the information code Cd1 is, for example, a QR Code (registered trademark), which records information using a two-dimensional array of multiple cells. The information code Cd1 is printed on a paper medium or the like and can be used in the form of a code printing medium such as a label, sticker, or tag. The information code Cd1 may be displayed on a display device such as a display or electronic paper.

[0016] The information code Cd1 is generated by combining a public code (e.g., an item code Ci1) and a secret code (e.g., a tracking code Ct1). When the information code Cd1 is read using a normal reader such as the code reader 13 described below, the information code Cd1 is recognized as a public code. In this case, the information recorded in the public code (hereinafter, public information) is read out. On the other hand, by using a special reader such as the code scanner 23 described below, it is possible to read the secret code. In this case, the information recorded in the secret code (hereinafter, secret information) is read out.

[0017] The information code Cd1 is used in both the distribution management system 110 and the traceability system 120. The distribution management system 110 and the traceability system 120 are management systems that manage a supply chain SC that is constructed to include a large number of traders TR. The supply chain SC is a connection between traders TR for delivering, for example, industrial products, agricultural products, and marine products to consumers. As an example, in the supply chain SC for delivering agricultural products to consumers shown in Figure 2, the traders TR include a farmer TR1, an agricultural cooperative TR2 that serves as a collection facility, a transporter TR3, and a retailer TR4.

[0018] The distribution management system 110 collects records of item transactions between traders TR using the item code Ci1. In other words, the item code Ci1 is operated by the distribution management system 110. The distribution management system 110 is composed of an input terminal 11, a label printer 12, a code reader 13, a system server 10, etc. The label printer 12 and code reader 13 are appropriately installed in the facilities of each trader TR. The input terminal 11, the label printer 12, and the code reader 13 are communicatively connected to the system server 10 installed in a data center or the like via a network.

[0019] The input terminal 11 is, for example, a personal computer or a tablet terminal. Basic information about items supplied to the supply chain SC (hereinafter referred to as item information) is input to the input terminal 11 in a predetermined format. For example, the item information may include the product name, place of production, production equipment, and manufacturer. The input terminal 11 transmits the item information about items shipped from the trader TR to the system server 10.

[0020] The label printer 12 is an output device for printing the item code Ci1 on a paper medium. The label printer 12 is configured to be capable of printing in color and grayscale. The paper medium on which the item code Ci1 is printed is affixed to the package or outer box of the trade item to be shipped, and is distributed as an attachment to the item.

[0021] The code reader 13 is a reader that reads the item code Ci1 to obtain the public information recorded in the item code Ci1. The code reader 13 obtains the public information recorded in the item code Ci1 and transmits the obtained public information to the system server 10.

[0022] The system server 10 is a host node capable of communicating with the input terminal 11, label printer 12, and code reader 13. The system server 10 registers item information acquired from the input terminal 11 in a database. The system server 10 prepares public information associated with the item information and generates an item code Ci1 that records this public information. As part of the process of issuing the item code Ci1, the system server 10 transmits image data and the like of the generated item code Ci1 to the label printer 12, which is the sender of the item information. When the illuminated item code Ci1 is circulated along with the item and read by the code reader 13 of another trader TR, the system server 10 accumulates a record of the item transaction by this trader TR.

[0023] The traceability system 120 is used in conjunction with the distribution management system 110, and accumulates transaction records in the same way as the distribution management system 110. Specifically, the distribution management system 110 corresponds to the old management system, and the traceability system 120 corresponds to the new management system. The traceability system 120 is operated together with the existing distribution management system 110 without making any substantial changes to the distribution management system 110. In addition to a record generation function that accumulates transaction records, the traceability system 120 also has a record reference function that makes the accumulated transaction records available for reference. The traceability system 120 uses blockchain technology to manage transaction records in order to prevent tampering with the transaction records.

[0024] The traceability system 120 collects transaction records using an information code Cd1 based on an item code Ci1 issued by the system server 10. The traceability system 120 is composed of a code output device 22, a code scanner 23, a history management server 20, etc. Furthermore, the traceability system 120 uses an input terminal 11 and a label printer 12 of the distribution management system 110, etc. The code output device 22, the code scanner 23, and the input terminal 11 are connected via a network to the history management server 20, which is recorded in a data center or the like.

[0025] The code output device 22 is installed at the facility of the trader TR where the label printer 12 is installed. The code output device 22 is installed so as to interrupt the communication line between the system server 10 and the label printer 12, and acquires the data of the item code Ci1 sent from the system server 10 to the label printer 12. The code output device 22 transmits the acquired data of the item code Ci1 to the history management server 20.

[0026] The code output device 22 receives data for the information code Cd1, which is generated based on the transmitted item code Ci1, from the history management server 20. The information code Cd1 further records tracking information as confidential information used in the traceability system 120. The code output device 22 transmits the information code data to the label printer 12 instead of the item code Ci1 data. With the intervention of the code output device 22, the label printer 12 prints the information code Cd1 on a paper medium without recognizing any modification (substitution) of the acquired code data. As a result, a code printing medium on which the information code Cd1 is printed instead of the item code Ci1 is affixed to an item and distributed together with the item.

[0027] At this time, the label printing medium on which the label printer 12 prints has the same layout as the medium on which the item code Ci1 was printed. Therefore, if the display area of ​​the information code Cd1 printed in place of the item code Ci1 is larger than the display area of ​​the item code Ci1, it may not fit on the label printing medium. For this reason, it is preferable that the display area of ​​the information code Cd1 be equal to or smaller than the display area of ​​the item code Ci1.

[0028] The code scanner 23 is a reader that reads the secret information recorded in the information code Cd1, which is added to the information code Cd1 separately from the public information. The code scanner 23 is configured to scan the same object as the code reader 13, and therefore may be physically integrated with the code reader 13. The code scanner 23 is composed of an image sensor formed by a two-dimensional array of CCD elements, a signal processing unit 41, etc. The image sensor is capable of reading information recorded in a two-dimensional area with a higher resolution than the code reader 13. The image sensor outputs an image showing the information code Cd1 (hereinafter referred to as a code image) to the signal processing unit 41.

[0029] The signal processing unit 41 includes a memory unit that stores a code reading program, a processor that executes the code reading process (described later) based on the code reading program, and RAM. The processor includes at least one type of core, such as a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or a reduced instruction set computer (RISC)-CPU. The signal processing unit 41 performs the code reading process by decoding the read signal from the imaging sensor according to predetermined rules and acquiring the tracking information recorded in the information code Cd1. The signal processing unit 41 may be capable of performing reading between the signal processing unit 41 and the history management server 20 based on the acquired tracking information.

[0030] The history management server 20 is a host node capable of communicating with the input terminal 11 in addition to the code output device 22 and the code scanner 23. The history management server 20 is primarily configured as a computer including a processing unit 31, RAM 32, storage unit 33, an input / output interface, and a bus connecting these. The processing unit 31 is hardware for arithmetic processing coupled to the RAM 32, and is primarily configured as a processor such as a CPU. The processor includes at least one type of core, such as a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or a reduced instruction set computer (RISC)-CPU. The processing unit 31 accesses the RAM 32 to execute various processes related to data management. The storage unit 33 stores a code generation program, which is one of management programs related to data management, for causing the processing unit 31 to execute the code generation method according to the present disclosure.

[0031] In the traceability system 120, a single information code Cd1 may be continuously used across multiple trader TRs, or a new information code Cd1 may be issued for each trader TR. In a configuration in which a new information code Cd1 is issued for each trader TR, a new hash value reflecting the transaction record is generated based on the occurrence of a transaction record at each trader TR. The history management server 20 generates a new information code Cd1 that records the new hash value as tracking information and provides the data of the new information code Cd1 to the label printer 12 at the facility of the trader TR that conducted the transaction. As a result, the content is continually updated to reflect the transaction record up to that point. Furthermore, because the tracking information is primarily based on hash values, the amount of data in the tracking information can be maintained constant even as the transaction of items progresses in the supply chain SC.

[0032] A consumer of the final product can view the transaction record of the final product by using a traceability confirmation app installed on a user terminal 50, such as a smartphone or tablet terminal. Specifically, the user terminal 50 reads the code attached to the final product (which may be the information code Cd1 or another additional code issued) and sends a transaction record reference request along with a hash value to the history management server 20, which is the point of contact. Upon receiving the reference request, the history management server 20 extracts the item information and transaction record associated with the hash value and generates data to be provided. The history management server 20 then transmits the generated data to the user terminal 50, which is the source of the reference request. The consumer of the final product can use the traceability confirmation app to open the data to be provided received from the history management server 20 and check the history of the transaction record.

[0033] Next, the information code Cd1 and its generation method will be described in detail. An example of the method for generating the information code Cd1 is shown in the flowchart of Fig. 3. The code generation process shown in S11 to S16 of Fig. 3 is realized by the processing unit 31 of the history management server 20 executing a code generation program.

[0034] First, in S11, the history management server 20 prepares item information. In other words, the history management server 20 acquires data for the item code Ci1 through the code output device 22. The item information is, for example, a 14-digit character string such as "abcdefghijklmn." After processing S11, the process proceeds to S12.

[0035] In S12, the history management server 20 generates an item code Ci1 based on the item information. For example, the item code Ci1, which is a QR code, is generated in 8-bit byte mode, version 2, and correction level H. The item code Ci1 is expressed by a two-dimensional array of two-color cells: black cells BLC and white cells WHC. In the two-dimensional array of two-color cells, it may be assumed that black cells BLC are converted to 1 and white cells WHC are converted to 0. The generation of the item code Ci1 includes the application of a mask pattern. After processing in S12, proceed to S13.

[0036] Here, the 8-bit byte mode is a mode in which the characters of the hash value hexadecimal number are represented by 8 binary digits, i.e., 8 bits, as shown in Table 1. The 8-bit byte mode can be said to be an uncompressed format in which the data is in an uncompressed state. The version indicates the size of the code; the larger the version value, the larger the code size. The code size correlates with the number of cells and also correlates with the display area. The correction level indicates the restoration ability to restore data when part of the code is damaged. For example, there are four correction levels, level L, level M, level Q, and level H, in order of decreasing restoration ability.

[0037] In S13, the history management server 20 prepares tracking information. The tracking information is, for example, a 64-digit string such as "fb8e20fc2e4c3f248c60c39bd652f3c1347298bb977b8b4d5903b85055620603." A hash function such as SHA-256 is used to generate a hash value used as such tracking information. The hash value is data that maintains a predetermined number of bits (for example, 256 bits). After processing S13, the process proceeds to S14.

[0038] In S14, the history management server 20 generates a tracing code Ct1 based on the tracing information. For example, the tracing code Ct1 is generated in hexadecimal mode, version 2, and correction level L. The tracing code Ct1 is expressed by a two-dimensional array of two colored cells: black cells BLC and white cells WHC. The generation of the tracing code Ct1 includes the application of a mask pattern. After processing S14, the process proceeds to S15.

[0039] Here, the hexadecimal mode is a mode in which the hexadecimal characters of the hash value are displayed as a four-digit binary number, i.e., four bits, as shown in Table 2. The hexadecimal mode can be considered a compressed format. In other words, by expressing the tracking information in hexadecimal mode and lowering the correction level, even if the amount of tracking information is greater than the amount of item information, it is possible to display the tracking code Ct1 in version 2, which is the same size or display area as the item code Ci1.

[0040] The mode in the code can be determined by embedding a mode indicator in the code. The correspondence between the mode and the mode indicator can be set, for example, as shown in Table 3. As shown in Table 3, the hexadecimal mode can be determined by assigning a hexadecimal mode to the mode indicator.

[0041] The number of characters written in each mode can be read by embedding a character count indicator in the code. The number of bits in the character count indicator varies depending on the mode and version, but is a multiple of 4.

[0042] In the code, the data structure is written in the following order, for example: mode indicator, character count indicator, data, termination pattern, padding bit, padding word.

[0043] In S15, the history management server 20 combines the item code Ci1 and the tracking code Ct1. That is, the item code Ci1 and the tracking code Ct1 are stored superimposed in a common two-dimensional area as the information code Cd1. After processing S15, the process proceeds to S16.

[0044] Here, we will explain how to combine the item code Ci1 and the tracking code Ct1. The color of each cell of the combined information code Cd1 is determined automatically according to a preset combination rule. The combination rule is, for example, the rule shown in Table 5.

[0045] According to the composition rules in Table 5, when the item code Ci1 is a black cell BLC and the tracking code Ct1 is a black cell BLC in cells that are superimposed on each other, the information code Cd1 after composition will be a black cell BLC. When the item code Ci1 is a white cell WHC and the tracking code Ct1 is a white cell WHC in cells that are superimposed on each other, the information code Cd1 after composition will be a white cell WHC. When the item code Ci1 is a black cell BLC and the tracking code Ct1 is a white cell WHC in cells that are superimposed on each other, the information code Cd1 after composition will be a dark color cell DCC. When the item code Ci1 is a white cell WHC and the tracking code Ct1 is a black cell BLC in cells that are superimposed on each other, the information code Cd1 after composition will be a light color cell LCC.

[0046] The dark color is a color that is recognized by a reader with a lower brightness than white and light colors, such as red. The light color is a color that is recognized by a reader with a higher brightness than black and dark colors, such as yellow. In this way, the combined information code Cd1 is represented by an arrangement of cells of multiple colors (up to four colors).

[0047] In S16, the history management server 20 issues the combined information code Cd1. That is, the new information code Cd1 is printed on a label printing medium in the label printer 12 at the facility of the trader TR. At this time, because the display area of ​​the pre-combined tracking code Ct1 was made to match the display area of ​​the item code Ci1 using the compression mode, the display area of ​​the combined information code Cd1 also matches the display area of ​​the item code Ci1. Therefore, the label printing medium on which the item code Ci1 was previously printed can be reused as is. The series of processes ends with S16.

[0048] Next, a method for reading the information code Cd1 will be described in detail. An example of the method for reading the information code Cd1 is shown in the flowchart of Fig. 4. The code generation process shown in S101 to S104 of Fig. 4 is realized by the processor of the code scanner 23 executing a code reading program.

[0049] First, in S101, the code scanner 23 identifies the position of the information code Cd1 based on the captured code image. After the process of S101, the process proceeds to S102.

[0050] In S102, the code scanner 23 reads the item code Ci1 using the first reading method. After the process of S102, the process proceeds to S103.

[0051] The first reading method is essentially the same as the method for reading a code expressed in two colors, black and white, such as the pre-combined item code Ci1. That is, the code scanner 23 binarizes each cell of the code based on a brightness threshold and reads the information. The brightness threshold is set between the brightness of the dark color and the brightness of the light color. Therefore, the black cell BLC and the dark color cell DCC are recognized as the black cell BLC. The white cell WH1 and the light color cell LCC are recognized as the white cell WHC.

[0052] According to the composition rules in Table 5, the black cells BLC and dark color cells DCC of the information code Cd1 correspond to the black cells BLC of the item code Ci1, and the white cells WHC and light color cells LCC of the information code Cd1 correspond to the white cells WHC of the item code Ci1. Therefore, the first reading method described above can be used to read the item information stored in the item code Ci1 of the information code Cd1. To read the item information, it is necessary to remove the mask pattern applied in S12.

[0053] In S103 and S104, the code scanner 23 reads the tracking code Ct1 using a second reading method different from the first reading method. Specifically, in S103, the code scanner 23 executes image processing to convert light color cells LCC into black cells BLC and dark color cells DCC into white cells WHC among the cells of the information code Cd1 recognized in the captured code image. After processing in S103, the process proceeds to S104.

[0054] In S104, the code scanner 23 reads information from the information code Cd1 after the image processing in S103 using the first reading method. That is, the black cells BLC and light color cells LCC of the information code Cd1 before the image processing are recognized as black cells BLC. The white cells WHC and dark color cells DCC of the information code Cd1 before the image processing are recognized as white cells WHC.

[0055] According to the composition rules in Table 5, the black cell BLC and light color cell LCC of the information code Cd1 correspond to the black cell BLC of the tracking code Ct1, and the white cell WHC and dark color cell DCC of the information code Cd1 correspond to the white cell WHC of the tracking code Ct1. Therefore, the tracking information stored in the tracking code Ct1 of the information code Cd1 can be read using the second reading method described above. In other words, the composition rules in Table 5 are groundbreaking rules that generate the information code Cd1 using a multi-color arrangement defined so that the brightness of the item code Ci1 is not altered by the first reading method, thereby enabling the tracking code Ct2 to be read using the second reading method.

[0056] At this time, the code scanner 23 references the mode indicator and determines that the information of the tracking code Ct1 is stored in hexadecimal mode. Furthermore, the code scanner 23 references the character count indicator and determines the range of cells to which the hexadecimal mode is applied. The code scanner 23 then reads out the tracking information by restoring the information of each cell according to the representation in hexadecimal mode. When reading out the tracking information, it is necessary to remove the mask pattern applied in S14. The process of S104 ends this series of processes.

[0057] In the first embodiment, the item code Ci1 corresponds to the "first code" and the item information corresponds to the "first information". The tracking code Ct1 corresponds to the "second code" and the tracking information corresponds to the "second information". The history management server 20 corresponds to the "information code generating device". The code scanner 23 corresponds to the "information code reading device".

[0058] According to the first embodiment described above, an uncompressed format is used for one code, which can be displayed in a smaller display area when the respective data is displayed in an uncompressed format, while a compressed format with a compressed display area is used for the other code. By differentiating between uncompressed and compressed formats, the difference between the display areas of the first code and the second code can be reduced. The display area of ​​the superimposed information code Cd1 can then be made the same as or closer to the one code that can be displayed in a smaller display area. This improves the applicability of the superimposed information code Cd1 to display layouts, thereby achieving high convenience.

[0059] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, the compressed format is a format in which the display area is compressed by expressing a hash value, which indicates a hexadecimal number that is expressed in 8 bits per character in the uncompressed format, in 4 bits. By compressing the amount of data indicating the hash value in this way, the display area can be easily compressed.

[0060] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, the information code Cd1 is displayed in a form printed on a code printing medium. When the information code Cd1 is printed on a code printing medium, it is more difficult to change the layout or size of the printing medium, so it is extremely preferable to employ a superimposed code using a compressed format.

[0061] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, when a code represented in a compressed format with a reduced display area is identified, information is read according to the compression mode of the compressed format. Therefore, when reading an information code Cd1 in which the first code and the second code are superimposed, it is possible to correctly obtain information even if the data of at least one of these codes is expressed in a compressed format. This improves convenience.

[0062] 5 to 8, the second embodiment is a modification of the first embodiment. The second embodiment will be described, focusing on the differences from the first embodiment.

[0063] In the second embodiment, the tracking code Ct2 uses a hexadecimal format and a compressed format in which the function patterns P1 to P5 have been removed. The function patterns P1 to P5 are composed of multiple cells in predetermined positions. The function patterns P1 to P5 do not record the data themselves, but rather are patterns that control the function of making the code readable. That is, as shown in FIG. 5, the information code Cd2 is generated by a process that combines the item code Ci2 that includes the function patterns P1 to P5 with the tracking code Ct2 from which the function patterns P1 to P5 have been removed.

[0064] An example of a code having functional patterns P1 to P5 is shown in Figure 6. For example, the functional patterns include a position detection pattern P1, a separation pattern P2, a timing pattern P3, an alignment pattern P4, and a quiet zone P5.

[0065] The position detection pattern P1 is also called a finder pattern. The position detection pattern P1 is arranged at each of three of the four corners of the code (e.g., the upper right, upper left, and lower left). One position detection pattern P1 is composed of, for example, 49 cells (7 cells x 7 cells). The position detection pattern P1 has the shape of three overlapping concentric squares, and is composed of a black 7 x 7 module, a white 5 x 5 module, and a black 3 x 3 module. By arranging the position detection pattern P1 at the three corners, the code scanner 23 can identify the lower right direction of the code.

[0066] The separation pattern P2 is arranged in the boundary portion of each position detection pattern P1, excluding the outer periphery of the code. The separation pattern P2 is entirely composed of white cells WHC, and clearly separates the position detection pattern P1 from the other parts of the code.

[0067] The timing pattern P3 is a linear pattern arranged to connect two position detection patterns P1 together, and is configured to alternately arrange white cells WHC and black cells BLC. The timing pattern P3 is provided to determine the size of one cell.

[0068] The alignment pattern P4 is a pattern that is arranged within the code, and one or more alignment patterns P4 are arranged depending on the version. One alignment pattern P4 is composed of, for example, 25 cells (5 cells x 5 cells). The alignment pattern P4 has the shape of three overlapping concentric squares, and may be composed of a black 5 x 5 module, a white 3 x 3 module, and one central black module. When multiple alignment patterns P4 are arranged, they are arranged at a predetermined interval from each other. The alignment pattern P4 is provided to correct distortion that occurs on the display surface of the code printing medium, etc., to make reading easier.

[0069] The quiet zone P5 is arranged to surround the entire outer periphery of the cord. The quiet zone P5 is made up entirely of white cells WHC, clearly separating the cord from other areas.

[0070] In the example of the first embodiment, these function patterns P1 to P5 are patterns common to the item code Ci1 and the tracking code Ct1, so there is no need for both of the two codes to have them. Therefore, by deleting the function patterns P1 to P5 on the tracking code Ct2 side, which has the larger amount of data, the display area of ​​the tracking code Ct2 can be more easily adjusted to match the display area of ​​the item code Ci2.

[0071] Next, the information code Cd2 and its generation method will be described in detail. An example of the method for generating the information code Cd2 is shown in the flowchart of Fig. 7. The code generation process shown in S21 to S27 of Fig. 7 is realized by the processing unit 31 of the history management server 20 executing a code generation program.

[0072] Steps S21 to S24 are the same as steps S11 to S14 in the first embodiment. However, in step S21, the item information is a 13-digit number such as "1234567890123." The item code Ci2 is generated in numeric mode, version 1, and correction level L.

[0073] After the process of S24, the process proceeds to S25. In S25, the history management server 20 deletes the function patterns P1 to P5 of the tracking code Ct2. In this case, all the function patterns P1 to P5 are deleted. After the process of S25, the process proceeds to S26.

[0074] Here, the tracking code Ct2 generated in S23 is version 2. The number of cells required for function patterns P1 to P4 of version 2 is 235 in total, as shown in Table 6. Since the total number of cells in version 2 is 625, the total number of cells in the tracking code Ct2 excluding function patterns P1 to P5 is 390. The total number of cells in version 1 is 441, which is more than 390. In other words, if function patterns P1 to P4 are deleted from the tracking code Ct2 of version 2, it is possible to store information in a smaller display area than version 1.

[0075] Note that rather than generating a tracing code Ct2 that does not initially contain the functional patterns P1 to 4, a tracing code Ct2 that includes the functional patterns P1 to 4 is generated in S24, and then the functional patterns P1 to 4 are deleted in S25. This is because, unless a mask pattern is applied in S24, it becomes difficult to restore the tracing code Ct2, from which the functional patterns P1 to 4 have been removed, to a normal code that includes the functional patterns P1 to 5 when it is read.

[0076] In S26, the history management server 20 combines the item code Ci2 having the function patterns P1 to P5 with the tracking code Ct2 from which the function patterns P1 to P4 have been removed, as shown in FIG. 5. The combining rules may be the same as those in the first embodiment. After processing S26, the process proceeds to S27. S27 is the same as S16 in the first embodiment. The series of processes ends with S27.

[0077] Next, a method for reading the information code Cd2 will be described in detail. An example of the method for reading the information code Cd2 is shown in the flowchart of Fig. 8. The code generation process shown in S201 to S205 of Fig. 4 is realized by the processor of the code scanner 23 executing a code reading program.

[0078] Steps S201 to S203 are the same as steps S101 to S103 in the first embodiment, except that after step S203 is completed, the process proceeds to step S204.

[0079] In S204, the history management server 20 restores the function patterns P1 to P4 from the tracing code Ct2 from which the function patterns P1 to P4 have been removed. That is, by adding the function patterns P1 to P4 to the tracing code Ct2 from which the function patterns P1 to P4 have been removed, a tracing code Ct2 to which a mask pattern has been applied is generated. After processing S204, the process proceeds to S205. S205 is the same as S104 in the first embodiment. The series of processes ends with S205.

[0080] According to the second embodiment described above, the compressed format is a format that compresses the display area by removing at least some of the functional patterns P1 to P5 that are used to recognize the code in the uncompressed format. For functional patterns that are common between the item code Ci2 and the tracking code Ct2, the functional pattern of the code that should be compressed is deleted. This allows the superimposed information code Cd2 to exhibit high adaptability to display layouts while retaining the functionality of the functional patterns.

[0081] Third Embodiment As shown in Fig. 9, the third embodiment is a modification of the second embodiment. The third embodiment will be described, focusing on the differences from the second embodiment.

[0082] The number of cells in the tracking code Ct2 of the second embodiment, excluding the function patterns P1 to P5, is 390. Therefore, there are 51 remaining colorizable cells, which is the difference from the 441 cells in version 1. In the third embodiment, a color sample area for presenting a sample color is formed in these cells.

[0083] Specifically, the combined information code Cd3 of the third embodiment is configured by superimposing a color sample area on a functional pattern. Of the functional patterns P1 to P5, the color sample area is superimposed on the upper left position detection pattern P1.

[0084] That is, in the third embodiment, in S25, the history management server 20 deletes all functional patterns other than the upper left position detection pattern P1 from among the functional patterns P1 to P5 of the tracking code Ct2, leaving only the upper left position detection pattern P1. In S26, the history management server 20 does not apply the composition rule of Table 5 to only the upper left position detection pattern P1, and forms a color sample area by superimposing it on the position detection pattern P1.

[0085] For example, of the 7 × 7 regions of the position detection pattern P1, the lower 3 × 7 region P1a is made up of black cells BLC and white cells WHC, just like the normal position detection pattern P1. In this case, the lower 3 × 7 region serves as both the sample region SBL for the black cells BLC and the sample region SWH for the white cells WHC.

[0086] Meanwhile, in the upper 4×7 region P1b of the 7×7 region of the position detection pattern P1, the black cells BLC are replaced with dark color cells DCC and the white cells WHC are replaced with light color cells LCC, so that the upper 4×7 region P1b serves as both the sample region SDC for the dark color cells DCC and the sample region SLC for the light color cells LCC.

[0087] Four color sample areas SBL, SWH, SDC, and SLC are formed superimposed on the functional pattern P1. This allows the information code Cd3 to inform the reader of the color combination used. Furthermore, when the information code Cd3 is printed with ink on a code printing medium such as paper, the ink may fade over time. However, this fading occurs in the same way in the color sample areas and the data storage area, making it possible to correct the color of the data storage area based on the color of the color sample area and read the code.

[0088] (Other Embodiments) Although multiple embodiments have been described above, the present disclosure should not be construed as being limited to those embodiments, and can be applied to various embodiments and combinations within the scope that does not deviate from the gist of the present disclosure.

[0089] In another embodiment, the history management server 20 may generate the tracking code in 8-bit mode rather than hexadecimal mode, and then delete function patterns P1 to P5 and compress the tracking code to a display area that fits the item code.

[0090] In another embodiment, the history management server 20 may delete only some of the function patterns P1 to 5 (for example, only the position detection pattern P1 having the largest number of cells among the function patterns P1 to 5). In this case, a deletion pattern identifier may be added to the data structure to identify which of the function patterns P1 to 5 has been deleted.

[0091] In other embodiments, when the display area of ​​the item code when represented in uncompressed format is larger than the display area of ​​the tracking code when represented in uncompressed format, the history management server 20 may generate the item code in compressed format and the tracking code in uncompressed format.

[0092] In other embodiments, a combination of colors other than red and yellow may be used for the light and dark colors. For example, in the information codes Cd1, Cd2, and Cd3 that are printed on the code printing medium using only monochrome ink without using color ink, the light color may be light gray and the dark color may be dark gray. Furthermore, color depth does not have to be expressed by using only one ink color, but may be expressed by mixing multiple colors of ink on the display surface of the code printing medium or by differences in ink density.

[0093] In other embodiments, the final products supplied by the supply chain SC using the information codes Cd1, Cd2, and Cd3 may be changed as appropriate. For example, various items such as automobiles, batteries, semiconductors, fresh food, seafood, soil, food, flowers, medicines, and chemicals can be managed by the traceability system 120.

[0094] In other embodiments, the information codes Cd1, Cd2, and Cd3 may be used by a system different from the distribution management system 110 and the traceability system 120. Furthermore, the information recorded in the pre-combination code is not limited to the above-described item information and tracking information, and may be changed as appropriate depending on the use of the information codes Cd1, Cd2, and Cd3. For example, instead of the above-described hash value, unique identification information (UID) that identifies the item shipped from the trader TR may be recorded as confidential information.

[0095] In other embodiments, the functions provided by the history management server 20, the code scanner 23, etc. can be provided by software and hardware that executes the software, software only, hardware only, or a combination of these. When such functions are provided by electronic circuits as hardware, the functions can also be provided by digital circuits including multiple logic circuits, or analog circuits.

[0096] The controller and methods described herein may be implemented by a special-purpose computer comprising a processor programmed to perform one or more functions embodied in a computer program. Alternatively, the apparatus and methods described herein may be implemented by special-purpose hardware logic circuitry. Alternatively, the apparatus and methods described herein may be implemented by one or more special-purpose computers comprising a processor executing a computer program in combination with one or more hardware logic circuits. Furthermore, the computer program may be stored as instructions executed by a computer on a computer-readable non-transitory storage medium.

[0097] (Disclosure of Technical Ideas) This specification discloses multiple technical ideas described in the following multiple clauses. Some clauses may be described in a multiple dependent form, where the subsequent clause alternatively cites the preceding clause. These multiple dependent clauses define multiple technical ideas.

[0098] <Technical Idea 1> An information code in which a first code (Ci1, Ci2) representing first information and a second code (Ct1, Ct2) representing second information are superimposed and recorded in a common two-dimensional area, wherein the first code is displayed in the two-dimensional area so as to be readable by a first reading method based on a discrimination of luminance, and the second code is displayed in the two-dimensional area so as to be readable by a second reading method different from the first reading method using an arrangement of multiple colors defined so that the discrimination of luminance by the first reading method remains unchanged, and wherein one of the first code and the second code, which can be displayed in a smaller display area when represented in an uncompressed format in which the respective data is in an uncompressed state, is displayed in the uncompressed format, and the other code is displayed in a compressed format in which the display area is compressed.

[0099] <Technical Idea 2> The compressed format is an information code according to Technical Idea 1, in which the display area is compressed by expressing a hash value indicating a hexadecimal number, which is expressed in 8 bits per character in the uncompressed format, in 4 bits.

[0100] <Technical Idea 3> The compressed format is an information code according to Technical Idea 1 or 2, in which at least some of the functional patterns (P1 to P5) for recognizing the code in the uncompressed format are removed, thereby compressing the display area.

[0101] <Technical Idea 4> The information code described in Technical Idea 3, wherein the compressed format is realized by removing a part of the functional pattern of the other code and leaving the other part, and in the area (P1a, P1b) where the other part is displayed, all of the multiple colors are arranged as sample colors so that the discrimination of the brightness by the first reading method remains unchanged.

[0102] <Technical Idea 5> An information code according to Technical Idea 3 or 4, in which an identifier is added to the other code to identify the removed functional pattern and the remaining functional pattern among the plurality of functional patterns.

[0103] <Technical Concept 6> An information code according to any one of Technical Concepts 1 to 5, which is displayed in a printed form on a code printing medium.

Claims

1. An information code in which a first code (Ci1, Ci2) representing first information and a second code (Ct1, Ct2) representing second information are superimposed and recorded in a common two-dimensional area, wherein the first code is displayed in the two-dimensional area readably by discrimination of luminance using a first reading method, and the second code is displayed in the two-dimensional area readably by a second reading method different from the first reading method using an arrangement of multiple colors defined so that the discrimination of luminance using the first reading method is unchanged, and wherein one of the first and second codes, which can be displayed in a smaller display area when each of the data is represented in an uncompressed format, is represented in the uncompressed format, and the other code is represented in a compressed format in which the display area is compressed.

2. The information code according to claim 1, wherein the compressed format is a format in which the display area is compressed by expressing a hash value indicating a hexadecimal number, which is expressed in 8 bits per character in the uncompressed format, in 4 bits.

3. An information code as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the compressed format is a format in which the display area is compressed by removing at least a portion of a plurality of functional patterns (P1 to P5) for recognizing the code in the uncompressed format.

4. The information code according to claim 3, wherein the compressed format is realized by removing a part of the functional pattern of the other code and leaving the other part, and all of the multiple colors are arranged as sample colors in the area (P1a, P1b) in which the other part is displayed so that the discrimination of the luminance by the first reading method is unchanged.

5. An information code according to claim 3, wherein an identifier is added to the other code for identifying the removed functional pattern and the remaining functional pattern among the plurality of functional patterns.

6. The information code according to claim 1, which is displayed in printed form on a code printing medium.

7. An information code generating device having at least one processor, which generates information codes (Cd1, Cd2, Cd3) in which a first code (Ci1, Ci2) representing first information and a second code (Ct1, Ct2) representing second information are superimposed and recorded in a common two-dimensional area, wherein the processor is configured to execute the steps of: generating the first code and the second code that can be read by determining luminance using a first reading method; and generating the first code and the second code by generating one of the first code and the second code in an uncompressed format, which is a format that can be expressed in a smaller display area when the respective data is represented in an uncompressed format, and generating the other code in a compressed format in which the display area is compressed; an information code generating device configured to further execute a process of combining the first code and the second code based on a combination rule in which the second code is readable by a second reading method different from the first reading method using a multiple color arrangement defined so that the brightness determination of the first code by the first reading method is unchanged.

8. An information code generating device as described in claim 7, wherein the compressed format is a format in which the display area is compressed by expressing a hash value indicating a hexadecimal number, which is expressed in 8 bits per character in the uncompressed format, in 4 bits.

9. An information code generating device as described in claim 7 or 8, wherein the compressed format is a format in which the display area is compressed by removing at least a portion of a plurality of functional patterns (P1 to P5) for recognizing a code in the uncompressed format.

10. An information code reading device having at least one processor, which reads information codes (Cd1, Cd2, Cd3) including white cells (WHC), black cells (BLC), light color cells (LCC) and dark color cells (DCC), in which a first code (Ci1, Ci2) representing first information and a second code (Ct1, Ct2) representing second information are superimposed and recorded in a common two-dimensional area, the information code being a code including a white cell (WHC), a black cell (BLC), a light color cell (LCC) and a dark color cell (DCC), the processor being configured to execute the following: reading the first code by discriminating the luminance by a first reading method in which the white cell and the light color cell are discriminated as having the same value, and the black cell and the dark color cell are discriminated as having the same value; and reading the second code by discriminating the luminance by a second reading method in which the white cell and the dark color cell are discriminated as having the same value, and the black cell and the light color cell are discriminated as having the same value. An information code reading device that, in at least one of reading the first code and reading the second code, identifies a code represented in a compressed format in which the display area is compressed, and reads out information stored by one of the first code and the second code in accordance with the compression aspect of the compression format.

11. An information code reading device according to claim 10, wherein the compressed format is a format in which the display area is compressed by expressing a hash value indicating a hexadecimal number, which is expressed in 8 bits per character in an uncompressed format, in 4 bits.

12. An information code reading device as described in claim 10 or 11, wherein the compressed format is a format in which the display area is compressed by removing at least a portion of a plurality of functional patterns (P1 to P5) for recognizing a code in a non-compressed format.

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