Information code, information code generation device and information code reader

Abstract

To provide an information code having high convenience.SOLUTION: An information code Cd1 superimposes and records a first code Ci1 representing first information and a second code Ct1 representing second information on a common two-dimensional region. The first code Ci1 is displayed in the two-dimensional region in a readable manner by discrimination of brightness by a first reading method. The second code Ct1 is displayed in the two-dimensional region in a readable manner by a second reading method different from the first reading method due to an array of a plurality of colors regulated so as to make brightness discrimination by the first reading method constant. The first code Ci1 that can represent a display area smaller when respective data between the first code Ci1 and the second code Ct1 are represented by a non-compression format being a non-compression state is represented by the non-compression format. The second code Ct1 is represented by a compression format that compresses a display area.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The disclosure of this specification relates to a technique for realizing a highly convenient information code. [Background technology]

[0002] The information code disclosed in Patent Document 1 records a first code representing first information and a second code representing second information in a common two-dimensional area by superimposing them together. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2021-196762 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Now, when the display area of ​​the first code is different from that of the second code, if the two codes are simply superimposed, the display area after superimposition must be adjusted to match the larger code. However, when reusing the display layout of a code with a small display area and adding a code with a larger display area to the display layout, a problem occurs in that the information code after superimposition does not fit into the display layout. For this reason, there is a demand for further improvement in convenience.

[0005] One of the objects 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. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] One of the aspects disclosed herein is 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, the first code is displayed in a two-dimensional area so as to be readable by determining the luminance by a first reading method; the second code is displayed in a two-dimensional area so as to be readable by a second reading method different from the first reading method, using a plurality of colors arranged in such a way that the luminance discrimination by the first reading method is unchanged; Of the first code and the second code, one code that can be displayed in a smaller display area when the respective 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.

[0007] Another disclosed aspect is an information code generating device that includes at least one processor and 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, the information code generating device comprising: The processor generating a first code and a second code that are readable by determining the luminance according to a first reading method; In generating the first code and the second code, one of the first code and the second code, which can be expressed in a format with a smaller display area when the data is represented in an uncompressed format, is generated in an uncompressed format, and the other code is generated in a compressed format with a compressed display area; The code reader is further configured to combine 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 a multiple-color arrangement defined so that the luminance discrimination by a first reading method of the first code is unchanged.

[0008] According to these aspects, an uncompressed format is adopted for one code that can be displayed in a smaller display area when each data is represented in an uncompressed format, while a compressed format with a compressed display area is adopted for the other code. By creating a difference between uncompressed and compressed, the difference between the display area of ​​the first code and the display area of ​​the second code can be reduced. Then, the display area of ​​the information code after superimposition can be made the same as or close to the one code that can be displayed in a smaller display area. Therefore, the applicability of the information code after superimposition to the display layout can be improved, thereby realizing high convenience.

[0009] Another disclosed aspect is an information code reader including at least one processor, the information code reader reading information codes (Cd1, Cd2, Cd3) including white cells (WHC), black cells (BLC), light color cells (LCC), and dark color cells (DCC), the information codes being recorded by superimposing a first code (Ci1, Ci2) representing first information and a second code (Ct1, Ct2) representing second information in a common two-dimensional area, the information codes including: white cells (WHC), black cells (BLC), light color cells (LCC), and dark color cells (DCC), The processor reading the first code by discriminating the brightness by a first reading method in which the white cells and the light color cells are discriminated as having the same value, and the black cells and the dark color cells are discriminated as having the same value; reading the second code by discriminating the brightness by a second reading method in which white cells and dark color cells are discriminated as having the same value, and black cells and light color cells are discriminated as having the same value; In at least one of reading the first code and reading the second code, a code expressed in a compressed format in which the display area is compressed is specified, and information stored in one of the two codes is read out according to the compression aspect of the compression format.

[0010] According to this aspect, when a code expressed in a compressed format in which the display area is compressed is specified, information is read according to the compression aspect of the compression 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 information. Therefore, it is possible to improve convenience.

[0011] In addition, the symbols in parentheses included in the claims, etc., are intended to exemplify the corresponding relationship with parts of the embodiments described below, and are not intended to limit the technical scope. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] A diagram showing an item code, a tracking code, and an information code after synthesis. [Diagram 2] A diagram showing the traceability system together with the distribution management system. [Diagram 3] 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a code generation process. [Figure 4] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a code reading process. [Diagram 5] 13A and 13B are diagrams for explaining an item code, a tracking code, and a synthesized information code. [Figure 6] A diagram showing functional patterns. [Figure 7] 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a code generation process. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a code reading process. [Figure 9] FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] Hereinafter, a number of embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. In addition, by assigning the same reference numerals to corresponding components in each embodiment, duplicated descriptions may be omitted. When only a part of the configuration is described in each embodiment, the configuration of the other embodiment described above can be applied to the other parts of the configuration. In addition to the combination of configurations explicitly stated in the description of each embodiment, configurations of multiple embodiments can be partially combined together even if not explicitly stated, as long as there is no particular problem with the combination.

[0014] (First embodiment) As shown in FIG. 1, the information code Cd1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure is generated by a process of synthesizing 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 is the source of the information code Cd1 is, for example, a QR code (registered trademark), and records information by 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, a sticker, or a tag. The information code Cd1 may be displayed on a display device such as a display or electronic paper.

[0015] 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 becomes possible to read the secret code. In this case, the information recorded in the secret code (hereinafter, secret information) is read out.

[0016] 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 FIG. 2, traders TR include a farmer TR1, an agricultural cooperative TR2 that is a collection facility, a transport company TR3, and a retailer TR4.

[0017] The distribution management system 110 collects records of item transactions between traders TR by 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 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 installed in a data center or the like via a network.

[0018] The input terminal 11 is, for example, a personal computer or a tablet terminal. Basic information of items supplied to the supply chain SC (hereinafter, item information) is input to the input terminal 11 according to 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 of items shipped from the trader TR to the system server 10.

[0019] 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.

[0020] The code reader 13 is a reader that acquires the public information recorded in the item code Ci1 by reading the item code Ci1. The code reader 13 acquires the public information recorded in the item code Ci1, and transmits the acquired public information to the system server 10.

[0021] The system server 10 is a host node capable of communicating with the input terminal 11, the label printer 12, and the 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 a 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 together with the item and is 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.

[0022] The traceability system 120 is used in conjunction with the distribution management system 110, and accumulates transaction records in the same manner as the distribution management system 110. In more detail, 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 has a record reference function that provides the accumulated transaction records so that they can be referenced. The traceability system 120 uses blockchain technology to manage transaction records in order to prevent tampering with the transaction records.

[0023] 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, etc. of a distribution management system 110. The code output device 22, the code scanner 23, and the input terminal 11 are connected to the history management server 20 recorded in a data center or the like via a network.

[0024] The code output device 22 is installed in the facility of the trader TR where the label printer 12 is installed. The code output device 22 is installed in such a way that it interrupts the communication line between the system server 10 and the label printer 12, and obtains data of the item code Ci1 transmitted from the system server 10 to the label printer 12. The code output device 22 transmits the obtained data of the item code Ci1 to the history management server 20.

[0025] The code output device 22 receives data of the information code Cd1 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 in place 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 in place of the item code Ci1 is affixed to an item and distributed together with the item.

[0026] 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 becomes 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 is equal to or smaller than the display area of ​​the item code Ci1.

[0027] 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 having CCD elements arranged two-dimensionally, 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, a code image) to the signal processing unit 41.

[0028] The signal processing unit 41 has a memory unit that stores a code reading program, a processor that executes a code reading process (described later) based on the code reading program, and a RAM. The processor includes at least one type of core among, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), and a reduced instruction set computer (RISC)-CPU. The signal processing unit 41 decodes the read signal of the imaging sensor according to a predetermined rule by the code reading process, and acquires the tracking information recorded in the information code Cd1. The signal processing unit 41 may be capable of reading between the history management server 20 and the signal processing unit 41 based on the acquired tracking information.

[0029] The history management server 20 is a host node capable of communicating with the input terminal 11 as well as the code output device 22 and the code scanner 23. The history management server 20 is mainly composed of a computer including a processing unit 31, a RAM 32, a storage unit 33, an input / output interface, and a bus connecting these. The processing unit 31 is hardware for arithmetic processing coupled with the RAM 32, and is mainly composed of a processor such as a CPU. The processor includes at least one type of core, such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and a RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computer)-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 for causing the processing unit 31 to execute the code generation method according to the present disclosure as one of management programs related to data management.

[0030] In the traceability system 120, one information code Cd1 may be continuously used across multiple traders TR, or a new information code Cd1 may be issued for each trader TR. In a form in which a new information code Cd1 is issued for each trader TR, the latest 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 in which the latest hash value is recorded 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 continuously updated to reflect the transaction record up to that point. In addition, since the tracking information is mainly based on the hash value, the data amount of the tracking information can be maintained constant even if the transaction of the item progresses in the supply chain SC.

[0031] The 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 transmits a request to reference the transaction record together with a hash value to the history management server 20, which is the contact point. Upon receiving the reference request, the history management server 20 extracts the item information and the transaction record associated with the hash value and generates data to be provided. The history management server 20 transmits the generated data to be provided 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 expand the data to be provided received from the history management server 20 to check the history of the transaction record.

[0032] Next, the information code Cd1 and a method for generating the information code Cd1 will be described in detail. An example of a 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.

[0033] In the first step S11, the history management server 20 prepares item information. In other words, the history management server 20 obtains data of the item code Ci1 through the code output device 22. The item information is, for example, 14-digit characters such as "abcdefghijklmn." After the process of S11, the process proceeds to S12.

[0034] 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 the black cells BLC are converted to 1 and the white cells WHC are converted to 0. The generation of the item code Ci1 includes application of a mask pattern. After the process of S12, proceed to S13.

[0035] Here, the 8-bit byte mode is a mode in which the characters of the hash value hexadecimal number are expressed as 8-digit binary numbers, 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, and 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, from lowest to highest restoration ability: Level L, Level M, Level Q, and Level H. [Table 1]

[0036] In S13, the history management server 20 prepares tracking information. The tracking information is, for example, 64-digit characters 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 the process of S13, the process proceeds to S14.

[0037] 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 color cells, black cells BLC and white cells WHC. The generation of the tracing code Ct1 includes application of a mask pattern. After processing S14, proceed to S15.

[0038] Here, the hexadecimal mode is a mode in which the characters of the hexadecimal hash value are expressed as 4-digit binary numbers, i.e., 4 bits, as shown in Table 2. The hexadecimal mode can be said to be a compressed format. That is, by expressing the tracking information in hexadecimal mode and in addition 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 size or display area of ​​the tracking code Ct1 in version 2, which is equivalent to the size or display area of ​​the item code Ci1. [Table 2]

[0039] 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 the hexadecimal mode to the mode indicator. [Table 3]

[0040] 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 always a multiple of 4. [Table 4]

[0041] In the code, the data structure is described in the following order, for example: mode indicator, character count indicator, data, termination pattern, padding bit, padding word.

[0042] 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 in a common two-dimensional area as an information code Cd1. After the process of S15, the process proceeds to S16.

[0043] Here, a method for synthesizing the item code Ci1 and the tracking code Ct1 will be described. The color of each cell of the synthesized information code Cd1 is mechanically determined according to a preset synthesis rule. The synthesis rule is, for example, the rule shown in Table 5. [Table 5]

[0044] 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 the cells that are superimposed on each other, the information code Cd1 after composition becomes 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 the cells that are superimposed on each other, the information code Cd1 after composition becomes 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 the cells that are superimposed on each other, the information code Cd1 after composition becomes 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 the cells that are superimposed on each other, the information code Cd1 after composition becomes a light color cell LCC.

[0045] The dark color is a color that is recognized by a reader with a lower luminance than the white and light colors, such as red. The light color is a color that is recognized by a reader with a higher luminance than the black and dark colors, such as yellow. In this way, the synthesized information code Cd1 is represented by an array of cells of multiple colors (maximum four colors).

[0046] In S16, the history management server 20 issues the information code Cd1 after the synthesis. That is, the new information code Cd1 is printed on the label printing medium in the label printer 12 at the facility of the trader TR. At this time, the display area of ​​the tracking code Ct1 before the synthesis is made to match the display area of ​​the item code Ci1 by using the compression mode, so that the display area of ​​the information code Cd1 after the synthesis 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 it is. The series of processes ends with S16.

[0047] Next, a method for reading the information code Cd1 will be described in detail. An example of a method for reading the information code Cd1 is shown in the flowchart of Fig. 4. The code generation process shown in S101 to S104 in Fig. 4 is realized by the processor of the code scanner 23 executing a code reading program.

[0048] In the first step S101, the code scanner 23 determines the position of the information code Cd1 based on the captured code image. After the process of S101, the process proceeds to S102.

[0049] In S102, the code scanner 23 reads out the item code Ci1 by the first reading method. After the process of S102, the process proceeds to S103.

[0050] The first reading method is substantially 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 performs binarization processing on 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.

[0051] According to the composition rules in Table 5, the black cell BLC and dark color cell DCC of the information code Cd1 correspond to the black cell BLC of the item code Ci1, and the white cell WHC and light color cell LCC of the information code Cd1 correspond to the white cell WHC of the item code Ci1. Therefore, the item information stored in the item code Ci1 of the information code Cd1 can be read by the above-mentioned first reading method. When reading the item information, it is necessary to remove the mask pattern applied in S12.

[0052] In S103 to S104, the code scanner 23 reads out the tracing code Ct1 by 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 to black cells BLC and dark color cells DCC to white cells WHC among the cells of the information code Cd1 recognized in the code captured image. After the processing of S103, the process proceeds to S104.

[0053] 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 the light color cells LCC of the information code Cd1 before the image processing are recognized as black cells BLC. The white cells WHC and the dark color cells DCC of the information code Cd1 before the image processing are recognized as white cells WHC.

[0054] According to the composition rule of Table 5, the black cell BLC and the 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 the dark color cell DCC of the information code Cd1 correspond to the white cell WHC of the tracking code Ct1. Therefore, the above-mentioned second reading method can read out the tracking information stored in the tracking code Ct1 of the information code Cd1. That is, the composition rule of Table 5 is an innovative rule that makes it possible to read the tracking code Ct2 by the second reading method by generating the information code Cd1 by a multiple color arrangement defined so that the brightness of the item code Ci1 is not changed by the first reading method.

[0055] At this time, the code scanner 23 refers to the mode indicator and identifies that the information of the tracing code Ct1 is stored in the hexadecimal mode. Furthermore, the code scanner 23 refers to the character count indicator and identifies the range of cells to which the hexadecimal mode is applied. Then, the code scanner 23 reads out the tracing information by restoring the information of each cell according to the expression in the hexadecimal mode. When reading out the tracing information, it is necessary to remove the mask pattern applied in S14. The series of processes ends with the process of S104.

[0056] 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".

[0057] According to the first embodiment described above, when each data is represented in an uncompressed format, an uncompressed format is adopted for one code that can be expressed in a smaller display area, while a compressed format with a compressed display area is adopted for the other code. By creating a difference between uncompressed and compressed, the difference between the display area of ​​the first code and the display area of ​​the second code can be reduced. Then, the display area of ​​the information code Cd1 after superimposition can be made the same as the one code that can be expressed in a smaller display area, or can be made closer to the one code. Therefore, the applicability of the information code Cd1 after superimposition to the display layout can be improved, thereby realizing high convenience.

[0058] Also, 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. In this way, by compressing the amount of data indicating the hash value, the display area can be easily compressed.

[0059] 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 highly preferable to employ a superimposed code using a compressed format.

[0060] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, when a code expressed in a compressed format with a compressed display area is identified, information is read according to the compression aspect of the compressed format. Therefore, when reading an information code Cd1 in which a first code and a 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 information. Therefore, it is possible to improve convenience.

[0061] Second embodiment 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.

[0062] In the second embodiment, the tracking code Ct2 employs a hexadecimal mode and a compressed format in which the functional patterns P1 to 5 are deleted. The functional patterns P1 to 5 are composed of a number of cells in predetermined positions. The functional patterns P1 to 5 are not for recording data themselves, but are patterns that govern the function of making the code readable. That is, as shown in FIG. 5, the information code Cd2 is generated by a process of synthesizing the item code Ci2 having the functional patterns P1 to 5 and the tracking code Ct2 from which the functional patterns P1 to 5 have been removed.

[0063] An example of a code having functional patterns P1 to 5 is shown in Fig. 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.

[0064] The position detection pattern P1 is also called a finder pattern. The position detection pattern P1 is arranged at 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, i.e., 7 cells x 7 cells. The position detection pattern P1 has a 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.

[0065] The separation pattern P2 is arranged in the boundary portion of each position detection pattern P1 except for the outer periphery of the code. The separation pattern P2 is composed entirely of white cells WHC, and clearly separates the position detection pattern P1 from the other parts of the code.

[0066] 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.

[0067] The alignment pattern P4 is a pattern that is arranged inside the code, one or more depending on the version. One alignment pattern P4 is composed of 25 cells, for example, 5 cells x 5 cells. The alignment pattern P4 has a 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 black module in the center. 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.

[0068] The quiet zone P5 is arranged so as to completely surround the outer periphery of the cord. The quiet zone P5 is entirely made up of white cells WHC, and clearly separates the cord from other areas.

[0069] In the example of the first embodiment, these function patterns P1 to 5 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 5 on the tracking code Ct2 side, which has more data, the display area of ​​the tracking code Ct2 becomes easier to match with the display area of ​​the item code Ci2.

[0070] Next, the information code Cd2 and a method for generating the information code Cd2 will be described in detail. An example of a 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.

[0071] S21 to S24 are the same as S11 to S14 in the first embodiment. However, in S21, the item information is a 13-digit number such as "1234567890123". The item code Ci2 is generated in the number mode, version 1, and correction level L.

[0072] After the process of S24, the process proceeds to S25. In S25, the history management server 20 deletes the function patterns P1 to 5 of the tracking code Ct2. Here, all the function patterns P1 to 5 are deleted. After the process of S25, the process proceeds to S26.

[0073] Here, the tracking code Ct2 generated in S23 is version 2. The number of cells required for the functional patterns P1 to 4 of version 2 is a total of 235, as shown in Table 6. Since the total number of cells in version 2 is 625, the number of cells in the tracking code Ct2 excluding the functional patterns P1 to 5 is 390. The total number of cells in version 1 is 441, which is more than 390. In other words, if the functional patterns P1 to 4 are deleted from the tracking code Ct2 of version 2, it is possible to store information in a smaller display area than version 1. [Table 6]

[0074] Note that instead of generating a tracing code Ct2 that does not have the functional patterns P1-4 from the beginning, a tracing code Ct2 having the functional patterns P1-4 is generated in S24, and then the functional patterns P1-4 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 P1-4 have been removed at the time of reading to a normal code having the functional patterns P1-5.

[0075] In S26, the history management server 20 synthesizes the item code Ci2 having the function patterns P1 to P5 and the tracking code Ct2 from which the function patterns P1 to P4 have been removed, as shown in FIG. 5. The synthesis rules may be the same as those in the first embodiment. After the process of S26, the process proceeds to S27. S27 is the same as S16 in the first embodiment. After S27, the series of processes ends.

[0076] Next, a method for reading the information code Cd2 will be described in detail. An example of a method for reading the information code Cd2 is shown in the flowchart of Fig. 8. The code generation process shown in S201 to 205 of Fig. 4 is realized by the processor of the code scanner 23 executing a code reading program.

[0077] S201 to S203 are the same as S101 to S103 in the first embodiment, except that after the process of S203, the process proceeds to S204.

[0078] In S204, the history management server 20 restores the function patterns P1 to 4 from the tracing code Ct2 from which the function patterns P1 to 4 have been removed. That is, the tracing code Ct2 to which the mask pattern has been applied is generated by adding the function patterns P1 to 4 to the tracing code Ct2 from which the function patterns P1 to 4 have been removed. After the process of S204, the process proceeds to S205. S205 is the same as S104 in the first embodiment. After S205, the series of processes ends.

[0079] According to the second embodiment described above, the compressed format is a format in which the display area is compressed by removing at least some of the multiple function patterns P1 to P5 for recognizing the code in the uncompressed format. For the function patterns common to the item code Ci2 and the tracking code Ct2, the function pattern of the code to be compressed is deleted. This allows the information code Cd2 after superimposition to exhibit high applicability to the display layout while retaining the functions due to the function patterns.

[0080] Third embodiment 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.

[0081] The number of cells in the tracking code Ct2 of the second embodiment excluding the function patterns P1 to P5 is 390. Therefore, there remain 51 cells that can be colorized, which is the difference from the number of cells in version 1, 441. In the third embodiment, a color sample area for presenting a sample color is formed in this cell.

[0082] Specifically, the combined information code Cd3 in 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.

[0083] 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 5 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 it by superimposing a color sample area on the position detection pattern P1.

[0084] For example, of the 7×7 regions of position detection pattern P1, the lower 3×7 region P1a is composed of black cells BLC and white cells WHC, just like the normal position detection pattern P1. In this case, the lower 3×7 region also serves as a sample region SBL for the black cells BLC and a sample region SWH for the white cells WHC.

[0085] 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. In this way, the upper 4×7 region P1b serves both as the sample region SDC for the dark color cells DCC and the sample region SLC for the light color cells LCC.

[0086] 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. When the information code Cd3 is printed with ink on a code printing medium such as paper, the ink may fade over time, but 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 before reading it.

[0087] (Other embodiments) Although several 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 not departing from the gist of the present disclosure.

[0088] In another embodiment, the history management server 20 may generate the tracking code in 8-bit mode rather than hexadecimal mode or the like, and then delete the functional patterns P1 to P5 and compress the tracking code to a display area that fits the item code.

[0089] 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 that case, a deletion pattern identifier for identifying which of the function patterns P1 to 5 has been deleted may be added to the data structure.

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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 printed only with monochrome ink without using color ink on the code printing medium, the light color may be light gray and the dark color may be dark gray. In addition, the color density does not have to be expressed by only one ink color, but may be expressed by a mixture of multiple colors of ink on the display surface of the code printing medium or by differences in ink density.

[0092] 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, marine products, soil, food, flowers, medicines, and chemicals can be managed by the traceability system 120.

[0093] 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 recorded information recorded in the pre-combination code is not limited to the above-mentioned 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-mentioned hash value, a unique identification information (UID) that identifies the item shipped from the trader TR may be recorded as confidential information.

[0094] In other embodiments, the functions provided by the history management server 20 and the code scanner 23 can be provided by software and hardware that executes the software, by software alone, by hardware alone, or by a combination of these. When such functions are provided by electronic circuits as hardware, the functions can be provided by digital circuits including many logic circuits, or analog circuits.

[0095] The controller and method described herein may be implemented by a special-purpose computer having a processor programmed to execute one or more functions embodied in a computer program. Alternatively, the device and method described herein may be implemented by a special-purpose hardware logic circuit. Alternatively, the device and method described herein may be implemented by one or more special-purpose computers configured by a combination of a processor executing a computer program and one or more hardware logic circuits. The computer program may also be stored on a computer-readable non-transitory tangible recording medium as instructions executed by the computer.

[0096] (Disclosure of technical ideas) This specification discloses a number of technical ideas described in the following paragraphs. Some paragraphs may be described in a multiple dependent form, in which the subsequent paragraph alternatively refers to the preceding paragraph. The paragraphs described in the multiple dependent form define a number of technical ideas.

[0097] <Technical philosophy 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, the first code is displayed in the two-dimensional area so as to be readable by determining the luminance by a first reading method; 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 a plurality of colors arranged so that the discrimination of the luminance by the first reading method is unchanged; An information code, wherein one of the first code and the second code, which can be displayed in a smaller display area when the respective 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.

[0098] <Technical philosophy 2> The information code described in Technical Idea 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.

[0099] <Technical philosophy 3> The information code described in Technical Idea 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.

[0100] <Technical philosophy 4> a part of the functional pattern of the other code is removed and another part is left, thereby realizing the compressed format; An information code described in technical idea 3, in which all of the multiple colors are arranged as sample colors in the area (P1a, P1b) where the other part is displayed so that the discrimination of the brightness by the first reading method remains unchanged.

[0101] <Technical philosophy 5> The information code described in Technical Idea 3 or 4, wherein an identifier is added to the other code for identifying the removed functional pattern and the remaining functional pattern among the multiple functional patterns.

[0102] <Technical philosophy 6> An information code according to any one of technical ideas 1 to 5, displayed in printed form on a code printing medium. [Explanation of symbols]

[0103] 20: History management server (information code generator), 23: Code scanner (information code reader), Ci1, Ci2: Item code (first code), Ct1, Ct2: Tracking code (second code), Cd1, Cd2, Cd3: Information code, WHC: White cell, BLC: Black cell, LCC: Light color cell, DCC: Dark color cell

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, the first code is displayed in the two-dimensional area so as to be readable by determining the luminance by a first reading method; 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 a plurality of colors arranged in such a way that the discrimination of the luminance by the first reading method is unchanged; An information code, wherein one of the first code and the second code, which can be displayed in a smaller display area when the respective 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. 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. 3. The information code according to claim 1, 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.

4. a part of the functional pattern of the other code is removed and another part is left, thereby realizing the compressed format; 4. The information code according to claim 3, wherein in the area (P1a, P1b) where the other part is displayed, all of the plurality of colors are arranged as sample colors so that the discrimination of the luminance by the first reading method is unchanged.

5. 4. The 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. 2. The information code according to claim 1, which is displayed in a printed form on a code printing medium.

7. An information code generating device includes at least one processor, and 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, the information code generating device comprising: The processor, generating the first code and the second code that are readable by determining the luminance according to a first reading method; In generating the first code and the second code, one of the first code and the second code, which can be expressed in a format that has a smaller display area when the data is expressed in an uncompressed format, is generated in the uncompressed format, and the other code is generated 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. 8. The information code generating device according to 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. 9. The information code generating device according to claim 7, 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 reader including at least one processor, the information code reader reading information codes (Cd1, Cd2, Cd3) including a white cell (WHC), a black cell (BLC), a light color cell (LCC), and a dark color cell (DCC), the information codes being recorded by superimposing a first code (Ci1, Ci2) representing first information and a second code (Ct1, Ct2) representing second information in a common two-dimensional area, the information codes including a white cell (WHC), a black cell (BLC), a light color cell (LCC), and a dark color cell (DCC), The processor, reading the first code by determining the brightness according to a first reading method, in which the white cells and the light color cells are determined to have the same value, and the black cells and the dark color cells are determined to have the same value; reading the second code by determining the brightness according to a second reading method, in which the white cells and the dark color cells are determined to have the same value, and the black cells and the light color cells are determined to have 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. 11. The 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 a non-compressed format, in 4 bits.

12. 12. The information code reading device according to claim 10, 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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