Information code, information code generation device, and information code generation program

Abstract

An information code (CD) of the present invention superimposes and records a public code (CP) and a confidential code (CH) in a common two-dimensional region by arranging units (WHC, BLC, RDC, CYC) that encode at least one of a first symbol and a second symbol. The information code (CD) displays in black a unit encoding a first symbol in the two codes (CP, CH), displays in white a unit embedding a second symbol in the two codes (CP, CH), displays in red a unit embedding the first symbol in the publication code (CP) and embedding the second symbol in the secrecy code (CH), the unit in which the second symbol is embedded in the disclosure code (CP) and the first symbol is embedded in the secrecy code (CH) is displayed in cyan, which is recognized by the reader under white light at a higher brightness than the display with red light and is recognized by the reader under red light at a lower brightness than the display with red light.

Description

Information code, information code generation device and information code generation program

[0001] This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-146447, filed on September 8, 2023, by reference in its entirety to the contents of the base application. Technical Field

[0002] The disclosure of this specification relates to techniques for implementing information codes that offer high convenience. Background Technology

[0003] Patent document 1 discloses an information code that can integrate a large amount of information through differences in color wavelengths and magnetic ink.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-101436

[0005] In the information code of Patent Document 1, it is possible to achieve a large capacity of stored information, but it does not consider recording multiple types of information in the same area, so there is room for improvement in terms of convenience. Summary of the Invention

[0006] One of the purposes of this specification is to provide an information code, an information code generation device, and an information code generation program that offer high convenience for reading.

[0007] One of the methods disclosed here is based on the information code decoded according to the brightness identified by the reader.

[0008] By arranging units that encode at least one of the first and second symbols using the first code and the second code respectively, the first code and the second code are superimposed and recorded in a common two-dimensional area, wherein the first code represents first information and the second code represents second information.

[0009] The unit that displays the first symbol using a first code and the first symbol using a second code is displayed using a first color that is made black through binarization.

[0010] The unit that displays the second symbol encoded with the first code and the second symbol encoded with the second code is shown using a second color that is made white through binarization.

[0011] The unit that uses a first auxiliary color to display the first symbol encoded with a first code and the second symbol encoded with a second code is displayed.

[0012] The unit that encodes the second symbol with the first code and the first symbol with the second code is displayed using a second auxiliary color, wherein the second auxiliary color is recognized by the reader at a higher brightness under white light than the display using the first auxiliary color, and at a lower brightness under the light of the first auxiliary color than the display using the first auxiliary color.

[0013] Another disclosed method is an information code generation device, which has at least one processor to generate information codes configured to be read by a reader through brightness-based binarization processing.

[0014] At least one processor generates information code that overlays public and confidential codes on a common two-dimensional area. The public code represents public information by arranging multiple units containing either a first symbol or a second symbol that can be distinguished through binarization. The confidential code represents confidential information by arranging multiple units containing either a first symbol or a second symbol.

[0015] At least one processor, when generating information code,

[0016] Units that embed the first symbol in publicly available code and those that embed the first symbol in confidential code will be displayed in black.

[0017] Units that embed a second symbol in publicly available code and units that embed a second symbol in confidential code will be displayed in white.

[0018] Units that embed the first symbol in publicly available code and the second symbol in confidential code will be displayed using the first secondary color.

[0019] The unit that embeds a second symbol in the publicly available code and a first symbol in the confidential code is configured to be displayed using a second auxiliary color, wherein the second auxiliary color is recognized by the reader at a higher brightness under white light than the display using the first auxiliary color, and is recognized by the reader at a lower brightness under the light of the first auxiliary color than the display using the first auxiliary color.

[0020] Another publicly disclosed method is to generate an information code generation program that is configured to read information codes by performing brightness binarization processing via a reader.

[0021] The aforementioned information code generation program is configured to cause at least one processor to perform the following processing:

[0022] Information codes are generated by overlaying public and confidential codes onto a common two-dimensional area. The public code represents public information by arranging multiple units containing either a first symbol or a second symbol that can be distinguished through binarization. The confidential code represents confidential information by arranging multiple units containing either a first symbol or a second symbol.

[0023] The aforementioned information code generation program is configured such that, when generating information codes,

[0024] The cells that embed the first symbol in the public code and the cells that embed the first symbol in the confidential code are set to be displayed in black.

[0025] The cells that embed a second symbol in the publicly available code and the cells that embed a second symbol in the confidential code are set to be displayed in white.

[0026] The unit that embeds a first symbol in the publicly available code and a second symbol in the confidential code is set to be displayed using a first secondary color.

[0027] The unit that embeds a second symbol in the public code and a first symbol in the confidential code is displayed with a second auxiliary color, wherein the second auxiliary color is recognized by the reader at a higher brightness under white light than the display using the first auxiliary color, and at a lower brightness under the light of the first auxiliary color than the display using the first auxiliary color.

[0028] According to these methods, the second auxiliary color can be recognized by the reader at a higher brightness under white light than when displaying using the first auxiliary color. Therefore, when the reader reads information codes under white light, for example without using optical filters, the brightness threshold in the binarization process can be set between the first and second auxiliary colors. Furthermore, units of the first color and the first auxiliary color that can be recognized as black are recognized as units recording the first symbol, and units of the second color and the second auxiliary color that can be recognized as white are recognized as units recording the second symbol. That is, the information code is essentially read as the first code (or, for example, a publicly available code).

[0029] On the other hand, the second auxiliary color can be recognized by the reader at a lower brightness than the display using the first auxiliary color under the first auxiliary color light. Therefore, under the first auxiliary color light (including the case where the reader reads the information code via an optical filter that reproduces the first auxiliary color light), the functions of the first and second auxiliary colors are reversed. In detail, units of the first color and the second auxiliary color that can be recognized as black are recognized as units recording the first symbol, and units of the second color and the first auxiliary color that can be recognized as white are recognized as units recording the second symbol. That is, the information code is essentially read as a second code (or, for example, a security code).

[0030] Therefore, the necessity of preparing completely different readers for reading information from a first code (e.g., a public code) and a second code (e.g., a confidential code) that are superimposed and recorded in a common two-dimensional area is suppressed; for example, it can be selected simply by the presence or absence of an optical filter. Thus, the convenience of reading can be significantly improved.

[0031] Furthermore, the reference numerals in parentheses included in the claims, etc., exemplarily indicate the correspondence with parts of the embodiments described below, and are not intended to limit the scope of the technology. Attached Figure Description

[0032] Figure 1 is a diagram showing the public code, the confidential code, and the combined information code.

[0033] Figure 2 is a diagram used to illustrate the code generation device and the code reader.

[0034] Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of code generation processing.

[0035] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating the composition rules.

[0036] Figure 5 is a graph showing an example of brightness distribution without an optical filter.

[0037] Figure 6 illustrates the identification of white units when a red filter is applied.

[0038] Figure 7 illustrates the identification of black cells when a red filter is applied.

[0039] Figure 8 illustrates the identification of red cells when a red filter is applied.

[0040] Figure 9 illustrates the identification of the cyan unit when a red filter is applied.

[0041] Figure 10 illustrates the identification of information codes when a red filter is applied.

[0042] Figure 11 is a graph showing an example of the brightness distribution when a red filter is applied.

[0043] Figure 12 is a diagram illustrating the identification of white units when a green filter is applied.

[0044] Figure 13 is a diagram illustrating the identification of black cells when a green filter is applied.

[0045] Figure 14 is a diagram illustrating the identification of red cells when a green filter is applied.

[0046] Figure 15 is a diagram illustrating the identification of cyan units when a green filter is applied.

[0047] Figure 16 is a graph showing an example of the brightness distribution when a green filter is applied.

[0048] Figure 17 is a diagram illustrating the traceability system together with the circulation management system.

[0049] Figure 18 is a diagram showing the public code, the confidential code, and the combined information code.

[0050] Figure 19 is a diagram showing the public code, the confidential code, and the combined information code. Detailed Implementation

[0051] Hereinafter, several embodiments will be described based on the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, there are cases where repeated descriptions are omitted by using the same reference numerals for corresponding components in each embodiment. When only a portion of the structure is described in each embodiment, the structures of other previously described embodiments can be applied to the other parts of that structure. Moreover, not only combinations of structures explicitly described in the descriptions of each embodiment are possible, but also combinations of structures from multiple embodiments can be partially combined with each other, provided that such combinations do not create obstacles.

[0052] (First Implementation)

[0053] As shown in Figure 1, the information code CD of the first embodiment of this disclosure is generated by synthesizing two QR codes. The information code CD stores the two QR codes superimposed in a common two-dimensional area. The QR code that forms the basis of the information code CD is, for example, a QR code (registered trademark), which records information through a two-dimensional arrangement of multiple units. The information code CD can also be an image display on an electronic display device such as a display screen (1D).

[0054] The information code CD is generated by the code generation device 1 shown in Figure 2 through the synthesis of a public code CP and a confidential code CH. When the information code CD is read using a conventional code reader 2 and reading method, the information code CD is identified as the public code CP. In this case, the information recorded in the public code CP (hereinafter, public information) is read. On the other hand, the confidential code CH can be read by using the code reader 2 to read the information code CD while passing through a predetermined optical filter 23. In this case, the information recorded in the confidential code CH (hereinafter, confidential information) is read.

[0055] For example, information code CDs can be used in retail stores and restaurants to display on product price tags, menus, etc. In this case, publicly available information that customers can access using a conventional reading method based on their smartphones or similar devices without using optical filters 23 could be useful information such as web addresses containing descriptions of product features, menu details, etc. On the other hand, confidential information could be useful information for retail stores and restaurants, such as information about the person in charge of product management, inventory information, and order information.

[0056] Code reader 2 is a device that reads either public or confidential information by reading information code CDs. Code reader 2 can be a general-purpose mobile terminal such as a smartphone, or a dedicated terminal used in logistics, retail, or manufacturing, such as a handheld terminal. In this case, code reader 2 has a structure including sensor 2a, processor 2b, RAM 2c, and display 2d. Sensor 2a can also be a photographic sensor formed by arranging CCD elements that detect light in a two-dimensional configuration. The photographic sensor is capable of reading information planarly recorded in a two-dimensional area at high resolution.

[0057] Processor 2b may include at least one of the following as its core: CPU (Central Processing Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computer). Processor 2b decodes the reading signals from the imaging sensor according to prescribed rules through code reading and processing, acquiring public or confidential information recorded on an information code CD. Processor 2b may display the acquired information on display 2d, store it in internal storage, or send it to an external device.

[0058] Code reader 2 decodes the information code CD based on brightness. Code reader 2 reads the information code CD by binarizing the two-dimensional area detected by sensor 2a based on a brightness threshold LT. That is, areas with brightness higher than the brightness threshold LT can be identified as essentially white. Areas with brightness lower than the brightness threshold LT can be identified as essentially black. The brightness threshold LT can, for example, be the average brightness of the two-dimensional area displaying the information code CD.

[0059] Furthermore, the code reader 2 may also include an optical filter unit 3, which is used to switch the information read between public code CP and confidential code CH. The optical filter unit 3 may be mounted on the housing of the sensor 3a and can switch the exposure information and filter application state via a switch or lever. The exposure state is the state in which the sensor 3a is optically exposed to the outside (i.e., not through the optical filter 23). The filter application state is the state in which the sensor 3a detects light through the optical filter 23. On the other hand, the code reader 2 may also not include the optical filter unit 3. The optical filter 23 may also be provided separately from the code reader 2.

[0060] Code generation apparatus 1 is a device for generating information code CDs. Code generation apparatus 1 can be, for example, a general-purpose mobile terminal such as a smartphone, a personal computer, or a commercial computer used in logistics, retail, or manufacturing. Code generation apparatus 1 is structured primarily as a computer, including a processor 1a, RAM 1b, a storage unit 1c, input / output interfaces, and buses connecting these components. The processor 1a is hardware integrated with RAM 1b for computational processing. The processor 1a includes at least one of the following as its core: a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and a RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computer) CPU. The processor 1a performs various processes related to the information code CD by accessing RAM 1b. The storage unit 1c stores an information code generation program for causing the processor 1a to execute the information code generation method of this disclosure.

[0061] Here, the details of the information code CD and its generation method are explained. An example of the information code CD generation method is shown in the flowchart of Figure 3. The code generation processes shown in S11 to S16 of Figure 3 are implemented by the processor 1a of the code generation device 1 executing the information code generation program.

[0062] In S11, the code generation device 1 prepares public information. The public information can be information input or selected by a user operating the code generation device 1. The public information can also be information obtained from an external device communicatively connected to the code generation device 1. After processing in S11, the process proceeds to S12.

[0063] In S12, the code generation device 1 generates a public code CP based on publicly available information. The public code CP is, for example, a QR code represented by a two-dimensional arrangement of white (WHC) and black (BLC) units. In this two-dimensional arrangement, it is conceivable that the white unit WHC is converted to 0, and the black unit BLC is converted to 1. In other words, 0 is encoded as a white unit WHC, and 1 is encoded as a black unit BLC. After processing in S12, the process proceeds to S13.

[0064] In S13, the code generation device 1 prepares confidential information. The confidential information can be information input or selected by the user operating the code generation device 1. The confidential information can also be information obtained from an external device communicatively connected to the code generation device 1. After processing in S13, the process proceeds to S14.

[0065] In S14, the code generation device 1 generates a confidential code CH based on the confidential information. The confidential code CH is, for example, a QR code represented by a two-dimensional arrangement of white (WHC) and black (BLC) cells. The version of the confidential code CH is preferably the same as the public code CP, but it can be different. The version indicates the code size; a larger version value results in a larger code size. After processing in S14, the process proceeds to S15.

[0066] In S15, the code generation device 1 synthesizes the public code CP and the confidential code CH. That is, the public code CP and the confidential code CH are stored as an information code CD superimposed in a common two-dimensional area. After processing in S15, the process proceeds to S16.

[0067] In S16, the code generation device 1 issues the synthesized information code CD. This issuance can mean displaying the information code CD on the display 1d of the code generation device 1. Alternatively, it can mean sending the information code CD to a predetermined external display 1d that displays the information code CD, or to a computer that controls the display 1d. The series of processes ends at S16.

[0068] Here, the compositing process of S15 and the reading of the composited information code CD are further explained in detail. The color of each unit of the composited information code CD is mechanically determined according to a pre-set compositing rule. The compositing rule is, for example, the rule shown in Figure 4.

[0069] According to the synthesis rules in Figure 4, in overlapping units, when both the public code CP and the confidential code CH are black units (BLC), the synthesized information code CD is a black unit (BLC). In overlapping units, when both the public code CP and the confidential code CH are white units (WHC), the synthesized information code CD is a white unit (WHC). In overlapping units, when both the public code CP and the confidential code CH are black units (BLC), the synthesized information code CD is a red unit (RDC). In overlapping units, when both the public code CP and the confidential code CH are black units (BLC), the synthesized information code CD is a cyan unit (CYC).

[0070] This synthesis rule is based on the premise that the optical filter 23 used in the reading is a red filter 23a. The red filter 23a is a long-pass filter with wavelength selectivity, configured to allow red light in the 620-750nm range to pass through substantially while blocking green and blue light with wavelengths shorter than red light. The red filter 23a can also be a band-pass filter that only transmits red light in the 620-750nm range.

[0071] The additional colors added to the synthesis rules, namely red and cyan, are selected as follows: when the code reader 2 performs the above-mentioned binarization process as a normal reading method, the determination results are reversed according to the presence or absence of the red filter 23a.

[0072] Figure 5 shows, for example, the brightness distribution and brightness threshold LT of the information code CD based on each cell when reading the information code CD under white light, without the red filter 23a. The brightness under white light can be detected as gradually increasing in the order of black cell BLC, red cell RDC, cyan cell CYC, and white cell WHC. That is, the brightness under white light can be detected as gradually increasing in the order of brightness LB corresponding to black, brightness LR corresponding to red, brightness LC corresponding to cyan, and brightness LW corresponding to white. Furthermore, the brightness difference between red cell RDC and cyan cell CYC is greater than the brightness difference between black cell BLC and red cell RDC, and the brightness difference between cyan cell CYC and white cell WHC. Conversely, a combination of additional colors (also called auxiliary colors) is set to make this relationship hold.

[0073] Therefore, the luminance threshold TL based on the average luminance of the two-dimensional region is determined to be between the luminance LR corresponding to red and the luminance LC corresponding to cyan. That is, in the reading without the red filter 23a, the red unit RDC is identified as the black unit BLC, and the cyan unit CYC is identified as the white unit WHC. Based on the synthesis rule in Figure 3, the black unit BLC and the red unit RDC of the information code CD correspond to the black unit BLC of the public code CP. The white unit WHC and the cyan unit CYC of the information code CD correspond to the white unit WHC of the public code CP. Therefore, when the code reader 2 reads the information code CD under sensor exposure conditions without the red filter 23a, it can obtain substantially the same result as reading the public code CP composed of the two colors of white unit WHC and black unit BLC.

[0074] Next, Figures 6 to 11 will be used to explain the reading process under the filter application state. Figures 6 to 9 illustrate how the code reader 2 identifies the color of the unit when white light is reflected by the four color units and then passes through the red filter 23a. Furthermore, the white light in this embodiment is also referred to as natural light, and could be, for example, sunlight.

[0075] When displaying information code CDs on a transmissive liquid crystal display 1d, instead of reflection, one can imagine that white light passes through the liquid crystal panel, and the color of the identified unit can be understood using essentially the same principle. Furthermore, the recognition method via the red filter 23a is essentially the same as reading information code CDs printed on a printing medium under red light.

[0076] For example, in the white cell WHC shown in Figure 6, red, green, and blue light are reflected. Moreover, of the reflected red, green, and blue light, only red light passes through the red filter 23a. Therefore, the white cell WHC can be identified by the code reader 2 with red or a brightness LR corresponding to red.

[0077] In the black cell BLC shown in Figure 7, all red, green, and blue light are absorbed. Therefore, the black cell BLC can be recognized by the code reader 2 as black or the corresponding brightness LB.

[0078] In the red cell RDC shown in Figure 8, only red light is reflected out of the red, green, and blue light. Furthermore, the red light passes through the red filter 23a. Therefore, the red cell RDC can be identified by the code reader 2 using red or a brightness LR corresponding to red.

[0079] In the cyan cell CYC shown in Figure 9, red light, green light, and green and blue light from the blue light are reflected. Furthermore, the reflected green and blue light are absorbed by the red filter 23a. Therefore, the cyan cell CYC can be recognized by the code reader 2 with a brightness LB corresponding to black.

[0080] Therefore, as shown in Figure 10, the information code CD, which has four color units (excluding white and black, and including two auxiliary colors), can be identified as being composed of black units (BLC) and red units (RDC) if a red filter 23a is used. More specifically, the black unit (BLC) and cyan unit (CYC) can be identified as black or a corresponding brightness (LB), and the white unit (WHC) and red unit (RDC) can be identified as red or a corresponding brightness (LR).

[0081] Figure 11 shows the luminance distribution and luminance threshold LT of the information code CD based on each cell, for example, with a red filter 23a. The luminance distribution is divided into two values: luminance LB corresponding to black and luminance LR corresponding to red. Therefore, the luminance threshold LT in the binarization process is set between the luminance LB corresponding to black and the luminance LR corresponding to red.

[0082] As a result, during reading with the red filter 23a, the black unit BLC and the cyan unit CYC can be identified as the black unit BLC, and the white unit WHC and the red unit RDC can be identified as the white unit WHC. Based on the synthesis rules in Figure 4, the black unit BLC and the cyan unit CYC of the information code CD correspond to the black unit BLC of the security code CH. The white unit WHC and the red unit RDC of the information code CD correspond to the white unit WHC of the security code CH. Therefore, when the code reader 2 reads the information code CD with the red filter 23a applied, it can obtain a result that is substantially the same as reading the security code PH composed of the two colors of white unit WHC and black unit BLC.

[0083] Next, Figures 12 to 16 will be used to explain the case where a green filter 24 is used instead of a red filter 23a to read the aforementioned information code CD. Figures 12 to 15 will explain how the code reader 2 identifies a cell as a specific color when white light is reflected by the four colors of the cells and then passes through the green filter 24.

[0084] In the white cell WHC shown in Figure 12, red, green, and blue light are reflected. Furthermore, of the reflected red, green, and blue light, only green light passes through the green filter 24. Therefore, the white cell WHC can be identified by the code reader 2 with a green color or a corresponding green brightness LG.

[0085] In the black cell BLC shown in Figure 13, all red, green, and blue light are absorbed. Therefore, the black cell BLC can be recognized by the code reader 2 as black or the corresponding brightness LB.

[0086] In the red cell RDC shown in Figure 14, only red light is reflected among red, green, and blue light. Furthermore, the red light is absorbed by the green filter 24. Therefore, the red cell RDC can be identified by the code reader 2 with black or a brightness LB corresponding to black.

[0087] In the cyan unit CYC shown in Figure 15, green and blue light are reflected from red, green, and blue light, respectively. Furthermore, the reflected green light passes through the green filter 24, while the blue light is absorbed by the green filter 24. Therefore, the cyan unit CYC can be identified by the code reader 2 with a brightness LG of green or the corresponding green.

[0088] Therefore, if a green filter 24 is used, the information code CD with four colors can be identified as consisting of black units (BLC) and green units (GRC). More specifically, the black units (BLC) and red units (RDC) can be identified as black or a corresponding brightness (LB), and the white units (WHC) and cyan units (CYC) can be identified as green or a corresponding brightness (LG).

[0089] Figure 16 shows the luminance distribution and luminance threshold LT of the information code CD based on each cell, for example, with a green filter 24. The luminance distribution is divided into two values: luminance LB corresponding to black and luminance GL corresponding to green. Therefore, the luminance threshold LT in the binarization process is set between the luminance LB corresponding to black and the luminance LG corresponding to green.

[0090] As a result, during reading with the green filter 24, the black cell BLC and the red cell RDC are identified as the black cell BLC, and the white cell WHC and the cyan cell CYC are identified as the white cell WHC. Therefore, when the code reader 2 reads the information code CD with the green filter 24 on, it can obtain essentially the same result as reading the publicly available code CP composed of the two colors of white cell WHC and black cell BLC.

[0091] However, a comparison of Figures 5 and 16 shows that, in the reading using the green filter 24, the brightness threshold TL and the actual detected brightness value are significantly different from those in the reading under exposure conditions without the optical filter 23. Therefore, when reading public code CP, using the green filter 24 can reduce cell misidentification compared to the exposure state.

[0092] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, "code generation device 1" is equivalent to "information code generation device". "Code reader 2" is equivalent to "reader". "Public code CP" is equivalent to "first code", and "confidential code CH" is equivalent to "second code". "Public information" is equivalent to "first information", and "confidential information" is equivalent to "second information". "0" is equivalent to "first symbol", and "1" is equivalent to "second symbol". "Red" is equivalent to "first auxiliary color", and "cyan" is equivalent to "second auxiliary color".

[0093] According to the first embodiment described above, the second auxiliary color can be recognized by the code reader 2 with a higher brightness under white light than when displaying using the first auxiliary color. Therefore, when reading the information code CD under white light, for example, without using the optical filter 23, the brightness threshold TL in the binarization process can be set between the first auxiliary color and the second auxiliary color. Furthermore, the black unit BLC and the first auxiliary color unit RDC can be recognized as units recording the first symbol, and the white unit WHC and the second auxiliary color unit CYC can be recognized as units recording the second symbol. That is, the information code CD is essentially read as a public code CP.

[0094] On the other hand, the second auxiliary color can be recognized by the code reader 2 at a lower brightness than when displaying using the first auxiliary color under the first auxiliary color light. Therefore, under the first auxiliary color light (including the case where the code reader 2 reads the information code CD via the optical filter 23 reproducing the first auxiliary color light), the functions of the first and second auxiliary colors are reversed. In detail, the black unit BLC and the second auxiliary color unit CYC can be recognized as units recording the first symbol, and the white unit WHC and the first auxiliary color unit RDC can be recognized as units recording the second symbol. That is, the information code CD is essentially read as the security code CH.

[0095] Therefore, the necessity of preparing completely different code readers 2 for reading information from the public code CP and the confidential code CH that are superimposed and recorded in a common two-dimensional area is suppressed, for example, it can be selected simply by the presence or absence of the optical filter 23. Therefore, the convenience of reading can be significantly improved.

[0096] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, the first auxiliary color is any one of the three primary colors of light. The second auxiliary color is a color obtained by additively mixing the remaining two primary colors of light. With such a color combination, the brightness difference between the first and second auxiliary colors under white light can be set more significantly. Simultaneously, by making the hues of the first and second auxiliary colors significantly different, the brightness reversal effect recognized under white light and the first auxiliary color is improved. As a result, even when using the four color units WHC, BLC, RDC, and CYC, misidentification during the reading of the information code CD by the code reader 2 can be suppressed.

[0097] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, the first auxiliary color is red, and the second auxiliary color is cyan. In this combination, even when using a combination of the three primary colors of light, the brightness difference between the first and second auxiliary colors under white light can be maximized. Therefore, the effect of suppressing false recognition can be further improved.

[0098] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, the information code CD is an image display of the state shown on an electronic display device (e.g., a display 1d). The brightness difference between the first auxiliary color and the second auxiliary color can be represented relatively easily in the information code CD displayed on the electronic display device.

[0099] (Second Implementation)

[0100] As shown in Figure 17, the second embodiment is a variation of the first embodiment. The second embodiment will be described focusing on the differences from the first embodiment.

[0101] Information codes (CDs) are 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 for managing a supply chain SC comprised of multiple traders (TRs). A supply chain SC is a network of trader TRs used to deliver, for example, industrial products, agricultural products, and aquatic products to consumers. As an example, in a supply chain SC used to deliver the agricultural products shown in Figure 2 to consumers, farmer TR1, agricultural cooperative TR2 (as a collection facility), transporter TR3, and retailer TR4 are included among the trader TRs.

[0102] The circulation management system 110 uses a project code (CP) as an example of a publicly available code to collect transaction records between traders (TRs). In other words, the project code is used in the circulation management system 110. The circulation management system 110 consists of an input terminal 11, a label printer 12, a code reader 13, and a system server 10. The label printer 12 and the 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, which is located in a data center or similar facility, via a network.

[0103] Input terminal 11 is, for example, a personal computer or tablet terminal. Basic information (hereinafter, project information) of the items supplied to the supply chain SC is entered into input terminal 11 according to a prescribed format. For example, the item name, place of production, production equipment, and producer are project information. Input terminal 11 sends the project information of the items shipped from trader TR to system server 10.

[0104] Label printer 12 is an output device for printing information code CDs containing item codes onto paper media. Label printer 12 is capable of printing in both color and grayscale. The paper media with the printed information code CDs is affixed to the packaging or outer box of the shipped item for distribution as an accessory to the item. In other words, the information code CD can also be a printed item displayed on a printing medium.

[0105] Code reader 13 is a reader that obtains public information recorded in the project code by reading the information code CD. Code reader 13 reads the project code without using optical filter 23 to read the information code CD. Code reader 13 obtains the public information recorded in the project code and sends the obtained public information to system server 10.

[0106] System server 10 is a host node capable of communicating with input terminal 11, label printer 12, and code reader 13. System server 10 registers project information obtained from input terminal 11 into a database. System server 10 prepares public information associated with the project information and generates a project code that records this public information. System server 10 sends the image data of the generated project code to label printer 12, the source of the project information, as part of the project code issuance process. If the issued project code circulates along with the project and is read by the code reader 13 of other traders (TRs), system server 10 accumulates the trader's TR's transaction records for the project.

[0107] The traceability system 120 works in conjunction with the circulation management system 110, accumulating transaction records in the same way. In detail, the circulation management system 110 is equivalent to the old management system, and the traceability system 120 is equivalent to the new management system. The traceability system 120 is used together with the existing circulation management system 110 without making any substantial changes. In addition to the record generation function of accumulating transaction records, the traceability system 120 also has the function of providing a referential reference to the accumulated transaction records. In the traceability system 120, blockchain technology is used in the management of transaction records to prevent tampering.

[0108] The traceability system 120 collects transaction records using information code CDs based on project codes issued by the system server 10. The traceability system 120 consists of a code output device 22 and a history management server 20, among other things. Furthermore, the traceability system 120 utilizes an input terminal 11, a label printer 12, and a code reader 13 from the circulation management system 110. The code output device 22, the code reader 13, and the input terminal 11 are connected to the history management server 20, which stores records in a data center, etc., via a network.

[0109] Code outputter 22 is installed in the facility of the trader TR that sets up label printer 12. Code outputter 22 is configured to connect to the communication line between system server 10 and label printer 12, and acquires data of item codes sent from system server 10 to label printer 12. Code outputter 22 then sends the acquired item code data to history management server 20.

[0110] The code outputter 22 receives data from the history management server 20, generated from an information code CD based on the submitted project code. The information code CD also contains tracking information used as confidential information in the traceability system 120. The code outputter 22 sends the information code CD data to the label printer 12, replacing the project code data. With the intervention of the code outputter 22, the label printer 12 does not recognize any changes (replacements) to the acquired code data and prints the information code CD on paper. As a result, the code-printed media containing the information code CD, replacing the project code, is affixed to the project and circulates with it.

[0111] The history management server 20 is a host node that can communicate with the input terminal 11 in addition to the code outputter 22 and the code reader 13. The history management server 20 is structured primarily as a computer, including a processor 31, RAM 32, storage unit 33, input / output interfaces, and a bus connecting these devices. The processor 31 is hardware integrated with RAM 32 for computational processing. The processor 31 may include at least one of the following as its core: CPU (Central Processing Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computer) – CPU. The processor 31 performs various data management-related processes by accessing RAM 32. The storage unit 33 stores an information code generation program, as one of the management programs related to data management, for causing the processor 31 to execute the code generation method of this disclosure.

[0112] Furthermore, in the traceability system 120, a single information code CD can be continuously used across multiple trader TRs, or a new information code CD can be issued for each trader TR. In the method of issuing a new information code CD for each trader TR, a hash value reflecting the latest transaction records is generated based on the transaction records generated in each trader TR. The history management server 20 generates a new information code CD that records the latest hash value as tracking information and provides the data of the new information code CD to the label printer 12 of the facility of the trader TR that conducted the transaction. As a result, the information continues to be updated to reflect the content of previous transaction records. Additionally, since the tracking information is primarily based on hash values, the amount of tracking information data can be maintained at a constant level even if items are traded within the supply chain SC.

[0113] Furthermore, when the code reader 13 reads the information code CD through the optical filter 23, it reads the tracking code, which is an example of the security code CH. The code reader 13 obtains the tracking information recorded in the tracking code and sends the obtained tracking information to the history management server 20.

[0114] Whether the code reader 13 uses the optical filter 23 can be determined based on the state of the trader's TR operation switch. Whether the code reader 13 uses the optical filter 23 can also be determined based on, for example, a brightness threshold LT set in the binarization process. For example, if the brightness threshold LT is higher than a preset threshold, it can be inferred that the code reader 13 is not using the optical filter 23, and the information is sent to the system server 10. Alternatively, if the brightness threshold LT is lower than a preset threshold, it can be inferred that the code reader 13 uses the optical filter 23, and the information is sent to the history management server 20.

[0115] When the optical filter unit 3 is attached to the code reader 13, the exposure state and filter application state of the optical filter unit 3 described in the first embodiment can be detected mechanically or electrically, and it can be determined whether the optical filter 23 is used.

[0116] Furthermore, consumers of the final product can view the transaction records of the final product by using a traceability verification application installed on user terminals 50, such as smartphones and tablets. Specifically, if the user terminal 50 reads the code attached to the final product (which could be an information code CD or a code issued through other means), it sends a reference request for the transaction record along with a hash value to the history management server 20, which is the destination of the query. If the history management server 20 receives the reference request, it extracts the item information and transaction records associated with the hash value and generates provision data. The history management server 20 sends the generated provision data to the user terminal 50, which is the source of the reference request. Consumers of the final product can verify the history of the transaction records by using the traceability verification application and opening the provision data received from the history management server 20.

[0117] According to the second embodiment described above, the information code CD is a printed matter displayed in the form of a printed medium. The information code CD in the printed matter can be distributed and circulated at low cost.

[0118] Furthermore, according to the second embodiment, the information code CD is configured to circulate along with the transaction item as an adjunct to the transaction item traded between traders. This allows for appropriate management of the transaction item.

[0119] (Other implementation methods)

[0120] The above describes several embodiments, but this disclosure is not limited to these embodiments and can be applied to various embodiments and combinations without departing from the spirit of this disclosure.

[0121] In other implementations, information codes can also be applied to codes other than QR codes. For example, as shown in Figure 18, information code CDb can also be generated by synthesizing two barcodes CPb and CHb based on the synthesis rules in Figure 4. Information code CDb records the two barcodes CPb and CHb superimposed in a common two-dimensional area. For example, as shown in Figure 19, information code CDm can also be generated by synthesizing two data matrices CPm and CHm based on the synthesis rules in Figure 4. Information code CDm stores the two data matrices CPm and CHm superimposed in a common two-dimensional area. Furthermore, information codes can also superimpose and store multiple different types of codes in a common two-dimensional area.

[0122] In other embodiments, in the application described in the first embodiment for use in retail stores and restaurants, the information code CD may also be a printed object displayed on a printing medium. Furthermore, in the application to the traceability system 120 described in the second embodiment, the information code CD may also be an image display on an electronic display device.

[0123] In other embodiments, combinations other than red and cyan can be used as additional colors. For example, combinations of green and magenta, or blue and yellow, can also be used.

[0124] In other embodiments, the black unit BLC can be any first color that is approximately black and can be determined as black through binarization processing; for example, dark gray can also be used. The white unit WHC can be any second color that is approximately white and can be determined as white through binarization processing; for example, light gray can also be used. Even if the code generation device 1 sets the unit to be substantially black, the color of the unit displayed on the electronic display device only needs to be within the range of the first color. Even if the code generation device 1 sets the unit to be substantially white, the color of the unit displayed on the electronic display device only needs to be within the range of the second color.

[0125] In other embodiments, the functions provided by the code generation device 1, the history management server 20, and the code readers 2 and 13 can also be provided by software and hardware executing the software, by software alone, by hardware alone, or a combination thereof. When such functions are provided by electronic circuits as hardware, the functions can also be provided by digital or analog circuits containing multiple logic circuits.

[0126] For example, if the code reader 13 wants to read confidential information from the information code CD, it can also recover the confidential code CH before synthesis by taking a color image and performing image processing on the color image inversely calculating the synthesis rules of Figure 4, without using an optical film.

[0127] The control unit and methods described in this disclosure can be implemented using a dedicated computer, which is configured as a processor programmed to perform one or more functions embodied in a computer program. Alternatively, the apparatus and methods described in this disclosure can also be implemented using dedicated hardware logic circuitry. Alternatively, the apparatus and methods described in this disclosure can also be implemented using one or more dedicated computers, which are configured as a combination of a processor executing a computer program and one or more hardware logic circuits. Furthermore, the computer program can also be stored as instructions executed by a computer on a computer-readable non-transferable tangible recording medium.

[0128] (The disclosure of technical ideas)

[0129] This specification discloses several technical ideas described in the following list of items. Some items are described in a multiple dependent form by selectively referencing previous items in subsequent items. Items described in these multiple dependent forms define several technical ideas.

[0130] (Technical Idea 1)

[0131] One type of information code is a code decoded based on the brightness identified by the readers (2, 13).

[0132] By arranging units (WHC, BLC, RDC, CYC) that encode at least one of the first and second symbols using first codes (CP, CPb, CPm) and second codes (CH, CHb, CHm) respectively, the first code and the second code are superimposed and recorded in a common two-dimensional area, wherein the first code represents first information and the second code represents second information.

[0133] The first symbol is displayed using a first color that is made black through binarization, and the first symbol is encoded using the first code and the first symbol is encoded using the second code (BLC).

[0134] The unit (WHC) that displays the second symbol encoded with the first code and the second code, which becomes white through the above binarization process, is displayed using the second color.

[0135] The unit (RDC) that encodes the first symbol with the first code and the second symbol with the second code is displayed using a first auxiliary color.

[0136] The unit (CYC) that encodes the second symbol using the first code and the first symbol using the second code is displayed using a second auxiliary color, wherein the second auxiliary color is recognized by the reader at a higher brightness under white light than the display using the first auxiliary color, and is recognized by the reader at a lower brightness under the light of the first auxiliary color than the display using the first auxiliary color.

[0137] (Technical Idea 2)

[0138] According to the information code described in technical concept 1, wherein,

[0139] The first auxiliary color mentioned above is any one of the three primary colors of light.

[0140] The second auxiliary color mentioned above is a color created by additively mixing the remaining two primary colors from the three primary colors of light.

[0141] (Technical Idea 3)

[0142] According to the information code described in technical concept 2, wherein,

[0143] The first auxiliary color mentioned above is red.

[0144] The second auxiliary color mentioned above is cyan.

[0145] (Technical Idea 4)

[0146] The information code according to any one of technical concepts 1 to 3, wherein,

[0147] It is an image display that shows the state of an electronic display device (1d).

[0148] (Technical Idea 5)

[0149] The information code according to any one of technical concepts 1 to 3, wherein,

[0150] It is a printed object displayed in the state of being printed on the printing medium.

[0151] (Technical Idea 6)

[0152] The information code according to any one of technical concepts 1 to 5, wherein,

[0153] It is configured to circulate along with the aforementioned transaction items as an adjunct to the transaction items traded between traders.

[0154] (Technical Idea 7)

[0155] An information code is configured to be readable by performing brightness binarization processing via readers (2, 13).

[0156] Public codes (CP, CPb, CPm) and confidential codes (CH, CHb, CHm) are superimposed and recorded in a common two-dimensional area. The public codes represent public information by arranging multiple units (WHC, BLC, RDC, CYC) that embed any one of the first and second symbols, distinguishable through the aforementioned binarization process. The confidential codes represent confidential information by arranging multiple units that embed any one of the first and second symbols.

[0157] The units (BLCs) in black that embed the first symbol in the publicly disclosed code and those that embed the first symbol in the confidential code are shown.

[0158] The units (WHC) in which the second symbol is embedded in the above-disclosed code and in the above-secret code are displayed in white.

[0159] The unit (RDC) in which the first symbol is embedded in the above-disclosed code and the second symbol is embedded in the above-secret code is displayed using a first auxiliary color.

[0160] The unit (CYC) in which the second symbol is embedded in the public code and the first symbol is embedded in the confidential code is displayed using a second auxiliary color, wherein the second auxiliary color is recognized by the reader at a higher brightness under white light than the display using the first auxiliary color, and is recognized by the reader at a lower brightness under the light of the first auxiliary color than the display using the first auxiliary color.

Claims

1. An information code, which is an information code decoded based on the brightness identified by a reader (2, 13), wherein the first code and the second code are superimposed and recorded in a common two-dimensional area by arranging units (WHC, BLC, RDC, CYC) that encode at least one of the first and second symbols respectively using a first code (CP, CPb, CPm) and a second code (CH, CHb, CHm), wherein, The first code represents first information, the second code represents second information, and the unit (BLC) that encodes the first symbol using the first code and the first symbol using the second code is displayed using a first color that becomes black through binarization processing. The unit (WHC) that encodes the second symbol using the first code and the second symbol using the second color that becomes white through binarization processing is displayed using a first auxiliary color. The unit (RDC) that encodes the first symbol using the first code and the second symbol using the second code is displayed using a second auxiliary color. The unit (CYC) that encodes the second symbol using the first code and the first symbol using the second auxiliary color is also displayed using a second auxiliary color. The second auxiliary color is recognized by the reader under white light with a higher brightness than the display using the first auxiliary color, and under the light of the first auxiliary color with a lower brightness than the display using the first auxiliary color.

2. The information code according to claim 1, wherein, The first auxiliary color mentioned above is any one of the three primary colors of light, and the second auxiliary color mentioned above is the color formed by additively mixing the remaining two primary colors of light.

3. The information code according to claim 2, wherein, The first auxiliary color mentioned above is red, and the second auxiliary color mentioned above is cyan.

4. The information code according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, It is an image display that shows the state of an electronic display device (1d).

5. The information code according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, It is a printed object displayed in the state of being printed on the printing medium.

6. The information code according to claim 1, wherein, It is configured to circulate along with the aforementioned transaction items as an adjunct to the transaction items traded between traders.

7. An information code generation apparatus comprising at least one processor (1a, 31) for generating information codes, wherein the information codes are configured to be read by performing brightness-based binarization processing via a reader (2, 13), wherein the at least one processor generates the information codes by superimposing public codes (CP, CPb, CPm) and confidential codes (CH, CHb, CHm) onto a common two-dimensional area, wherein... The aforementioned public code represents public information by arranging multiple units (WHC, BLC, RDC, CYC) embedded with either a first symbol or a second symbol that can be distinguished by the aforementioned binarization processing. The aforementioned confidential code represents confidential information by arranging multiple units embedded with either the aforementioned first symbol or the aforementioned second symbol. When generating the aforementioned information code, the at least one processor will set the unit (BLC) in the aforementioned public code that embeds the aforementioned first symbol and in the aforementioned confidential code to be displayed in black, and will set the unit (BLC) in the aforementioned public code that embeds the aforementioned second symbol and in the aforementioned confidential code to be displayed in black. The unit (WHC) for the second symbol is set to be displayed in white. The unit (RDC) for embedding the first symbol in the above-disclosed code and the second symbol in the above-secret code is set to be displayed in a first auxiliary color. The unit (CYC) for embedding the second symbol in the above-disclosed code and the first symbol in the above-secret code is set to be displayed in a second auxiliary color. The second auxiliary color is recognized by the reader under white light with a higher brightness than the display using the first auxiliary color, and under the light of the first auxiliary color with a lower brightness than the display using the first auxiliary color.

8. An information code generation program, configured to generate information codes that can be read by performing brightness-based binarization processing via a reader (2, 13), wherein the information code generation program is configured to cause at least one processor (1a, 31) to perform the following process: generating the information codes by superimposing public codes (CP, CPb, CPm) and confidential codes (CH, CHb, CHm) on a common two-dimensional area, wherein, The aforementioned public code represents public information by arranging multiple units (WHC, BLC, RDC, CYC) containing either a first symbol or a second symbol that can be distinguished by the aforementioned binarization processing. The aforementioned confidential code represents confidential information by arranging multiple units containing either the aforementioned first symbol or the aforementioned second symbol. The information code generation program is configured such that, when generating the aforementioned information code, the unit (BLC) containing the first symbol embedded in the public code and the unit containing the first symbol embedded in the confidential code is set to be displayed in black, and the unit (BLC) containing the second symbol embedded in the public code and the unit containing the first symbol embedded in the confidential code is set to be displayed in black. The unit (WHC) for the second symbol is set to be displayed in white, the unit (RDC) for embedding the first symbol in the public code and the second symbol in the confidential code is set to be displayed in a first auxiliary color, and the unit (CYC) for embedding the second symbol in the public code and the first symbol in the confidential code is set to be displayed in a second auxiliary color. The second auxiliary color is recognized by the reader under white light with a higher brightness than the display using the first auxiliary color, and under the light of the first auxiliary color with a lower brightness than the display using the first auxiliary color.

Images