Information code reading system

Abstract

To provide a configuration that can determine the necessity of mode changeover by using a picked-up image used to read an information code without employing a separate sensor such as a motion sensor.SOLUTION: A reading device 10 is switched to a placing mode when mode switching process performed by a control part 40 determines that a switching code SP1 is in a specific imaging state to be imaged, and switched to a portable mode when not determined to be in the specific imaging state.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information code reading system including a portable information code reader that optically reads an information code and a stand for reading the information code. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, in order to alleviate labor shortages and improve the efficiency of registers, an increasing number of stores, such as convenience stores and supermarkets, are adopting not only registers operated by store clerks, but also self-checkouts that customers can operate themselves. The scanners (handheld scanners) of the registers operated by store clerks are configured as portable types to enable smoother reading operations, and are operated by pointing the reading port of the handheld scanner toward the barcodes of products. On the other hand, the scanners (fixed scanners) of the self-checkouts operated by customers are configured as fixed types to enable even inexperienced customers to perform reading operations reliably, and are operated by pointing the barcodes of products toward the reading port of the fixed scanner. In this way, the functions of the reading process need to be different between the handheld scanners operated by store clerks and the fixed scanners operated by customers.

[0003] To further improve efficiency, a single register can be switched between a register operated by a store clerk and a self-service register depending on the time of day, how busy it is, etc. However, if a single register is equipped with both a handheld scanner and a fixed scanner in order to adopt such an operating method, not only does the cost per register increase, but the space each register takes up is also large.

[0004] For this reason, there is an increasing demand for an information code reader (scanner) that can switch between a portable mode for performing a reading process in a portable state and a placed mode for performing a reading process in a placed state. For example, a barcode reader disclosed in the following Patent Document 1 is known as an information code reader that switches between modes in this way. This barcode reader is provided with a stand mode (placed mode) in which a barcode attached to a product is held up to a barcode reading window of the barcode reader in a fixed state to read the barcode, and a pickup mode (portable mode) in which a desired barcode is read by pressing a trigger switch with the barcode reader held up. This barcode reader automatically switches the reading mode from the stand mode to the pickup mode when a motion sensor detects a movement, and automatically switches the reading mode from the pickup mode to the stand mode when a predetermined period of time continues in which no movement is detected by the motion sensor. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2016-162100 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, in a configuration that uses movement detection by a motion sensor to switch modes as disclosed in Patent Document 1 above, the use of a motion sensor etc. not only increases manufacturing costs but also complicates the structure, making it difficult to reduce size and weight.

[0007] The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide a configuration that can determine whether or not mode switching is necessary by using an captured image used to read an information code, without adopting a separate sensor such as a motion sensor. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides A portable information code reader (10) for optically reading an information code; a stand (100, 200, 200a, 200b) on which the information code reader can be placed; An information code reading system (1, 1a) comprising: The information code reader includes: a predetermined function is different between a placed mode for performing the reading process in a placed state in which the device is placed on the stand and a portable mode for performing the reading process in a carried state, a housing (11) in which a reading port (14) is formed; an imaging unit (23) that images the information code through the reading port; a reading processing unit (21) for performing the reading process on the information code imaged by the imaging unit; a mode switching unit (21) that switches to the stationary mode when it is determined that a specific image capturing state is occurring in which a specific pattern (SP1 to SP4, 230, 230a) is captured by the imaging unit, and that switches to the portable mode when it is not determined that the specific image capturing state is occurring; Equipped with The specific pattern is arranged so as to be imaged by the imaging section in the placed state. The symbols in parentheses above indicate the corresponding relationship with the specific means described in the embodiments described later. Effect of the Invention

[0009] In the present invention, the mode switching unit switches to the placed mode when it is determined that the specific image capturing state is one in which the specific pattern is captured by the imaging unit, and switches to the portable mode when it is not determined that the specific image capturing state is one in which the specific pattern is captured by the imaging unit in the placed state.

[0010] Thus, by simply placing the information code reader on the stand, the imaging unit of the information code reader captures the specific pattern, and the information code reader is switched to the placed mode. Also, by simply removing the information code reader from the stand, the imaging unit of the information code reader no longer captures the specific pattern, and the information code reader is switched to the portable mode. In this way, it is possible to realize an information code reading system that can determine whether or not a mode change is required by utilizing the captured image used to read the information code, without employing a separate sensor such as a motion sensor.

[0011] The specific pattern may be arranged on one surface of the stand imaged by the imaging unit in the placed state, whereby the position of the specific pattern in the captured image in the placed state becomes constant, making it possible to more accurately determine whether or not the specific image capturing state is being established.

[0012] The specific pattern may be an information code in which mode switching information is recorded. For that purpose, the information code is generated so as to be easily recognizable from the captured image, so that it is possible to more accurately determine whether the information code in which the mode switching information is recorded is captured, i.e., whether the specific image capture state is present.

[0013] The specific pattern may be a specific shape formed on one surface of the stand.

[0014] By storing position identification information capable of identifying the position of a specific pattern in an image captured in a placed state in a memory unit in advance, the mode switching unit may use the position identification information stored in the memory unit to determine whether or not a specific image capturing state is being entered.

[0015] This makes it possible to accurately grasp the position in the captured image where the specific pattern is captured in the placed state, so that it is possible to more accurately determine whether or not the specific imaging state is being reached.

[0016] The housing is provided with a protective section for protecting the reading port, the protective section being formed so that its tip is imaged by the imaging section, and the stand is formed so that one end is imaged by the imaging section with at least a portion of the tip hidden when the stand is placed, so that the specific pattern may be the one end that is imaged by the imaging section when the stand is placed.

[0017] The tip is constantly imaged by the imaging unit, and the blocked area that the tip occupies in the captured image is an area that cannot be used for imaging the information code, and the area other than the blocked area is an area for imaging the information code. In the placed state, one end of the stand is reflected in the blocked area, so it is possible to determine whether the stand is in the placed state or not depending on whether one end of the stand that functions as a specific pattern is imaged in the blocked area. In particular, since the blocked area that cannot be used for imaging the information code can be used to determine the placed state, the image area in which the information code can be read in the placed mode can be made wider compared to the case in which the specific pattern is constantly imaged in an area different from the blocked area in the placed mode.

[0018] The base may be provided with a support portion that supports the inner surface of the protective portion from below without being included in the imaging area of ​​the imaging portion when the base is placed on the base. In this way, the information code reader can be stably placed on the base by supporting the protective portion with the support portion without affecting the imaging area of ​​the imaging portion.

[0019] The inner surface of the protective part may be formed in a curved concave shape, and the supporting part may be formed in a curved convex shape so that the upper surface supporting the inner surface of the protective part is aligned with the inner surface. In this way, even if the protective part is placed on the supporting part so as to be slightly misaligned in the curved direction, the inner surface of the protective part and the upper surface of the supporting part are in surface contact with each other and are stable, so that the information code reader can be roughly placed on the base.

[0020] The stand may be configured to be attached to the tip portion when in the resting state.

[0021] The above-mentioned predetermined function is a function related to an alarm sound by the alarm unit in response to the reading result of the reading process, and the alarm sound by the alarm unit in the placed mode may be different from the alarm sound by the alarm unit in the portable mode.

[0022] If the notification sound from the notification unit in the placed mode and the portable mode are the same, for example, before a customer reads the information code of a product in the placed mode, the notification sound in response to the operation in the portable mode by the store clerk next to him may cause the customer to mistakenly believe that the information code is being read. For this reason, by changing the notification sound in the placed mode, which is assumed to be operated by the customer, and the notification sound in the portable mode, which is assumed to be operated by the store clerk, it is possible to suppress such a mistaken recognition.

[0023] The above-mentioned specified function may be a function related to the emission of illumination light by the illumination unit, and the brightness of the illumination light emitted from the illumination unit in the portable mode may be made darker than the brightness of the illumination light emitted from the illumination unit in the placed mode.

[0024] In the portable mode, the reading port is often placed close to the information code to read, so the reading process is not hindered even if the illumination light is dim, whereas in the placed mode, the information code is often read at a position some distance from the reading port, so it is necessary to make the illumination light brighter. For this reason, by making the brightness of the illumination light in the portable mode darker than that in the placed mode, the brightness of the illumination light can be appropriately controlled according to the switched mode.

[0025] The above-mentioned predetermined function is a function related to the irradiation of marker light by the marker light irradiating unit, and may be such that the marker light irradiating unit irradiates the marker light in the placed mode and stops irradiating the marker light in the portable mode.

[0026] In the portable mode, the reading port is often brought close to the information code to read, and in the placed mode, the information code is often read at a position some distance away from the reading port, so the need to illuminate the marker light can be controlled according to the switched mode.

[0027] The predetermined function is a function related to the display by the display unit, and the display by the display unit in the placed mode may be different from the display by the display unit in the portable mode.

[0028] This makes it possible to change the display contents between the placed mode operated by the customer and the portable mode operated by the store clerk. For example, in the placed mode, it is possible to display information on how to operate the device for customers who are unfamiliar with the operation, and in the portable mode, it is possible to display advertisements for customers who are looking at the device operated by the store clerk.

[0029] The above-mentioned specified function is a function related to output restriction of the reading result by the reading process, and in the placed mode, no output restriction is performed, and in the portable mode, no output restriction is performed on the reading result of the information code whose reading distance is determined by the reading distance determination unit to be less than or equal to a specified distance, and output restriction is performed on the reading result of the information code whose reading distance is determined by the reading distance determination unit to be greater than or equal to a specified distance.

[0030] As a result, in the portable mode, even if an unintended, distant information code is captured when the reading port is directed toward the information code to be read, the output of the reading result is limited, so that it is possible to prevent unnecessary reading results from being output. On the other hand, in the placed mode, an operation is required to direct the information code itself toward the reading port, so that an unintended information code is not captured. In this way, it is possible to control whether or not to limit the output of the reading result according to the switched mode.

[0031] The read distance determination unit may determine whether or not the read distance is equal to or greater than a predetermined distance based on the size of cells constituting the information code in a captured image of the information code.

[0032] Since the size of the cells in the captured image becomes smaller as the reading distance becomes longer, it is possible to determine whether the reading distance is equal to or greater than a predetermined distance without employing a distance measuring sensor or the like.

[0033] In the portable mode, no output restriction may be imposed on the read result of an information code that is not determined by the relative movement determination section to be in a relative movement state, regardless of the determination result of the read distance determination section.

[0034] When an unintended information code is imaged when the reading port is directed toward the information code to be read, the information code is imaged as if it is moving relative to the reading port. On the other hand, when the reading port is directed toward the information code to be read, the relative position between the reading port and the information code does not change, and the information code is imaged as if it is not moving relative to the reading port. In other words, an information code that is not moving relative to the reading port (an information code that is not determined to be in a relative movement state) is considered to be an information code to be read, and output restriction is not imposed even if the reading distance is equal to or greater than a predetermined distance, so that the reading result to be output is not restricted.

[0035] The relative movement determination section may determine whether or not there is a relative movement state based on an amount of change between the position of the information code in the captured image and the position of the information code in the captured image a predetermined time ago.

[0036] In the portable mode, no output restriction may be imposed on the read result of an information code of a predetermined code type, regardless of the determination result of the read distance determination unit.

[0037] As a result, for information codes of a code type that is easily photographed by mistake (e.g., a JAN code barcode), the need for output restriction is determined based on the judgment result of the reading distance judgment unit, and for information codes of a code type that is less likely to be photographed by mistake (e.g., a Code128 barcode), output restriction is not required without taking into account the judgment result of the reading distance judgment unit.

[0038] The housing is provided with a protective section for protecting the reading port, the protective section is formed so that the tip is imaged by the imaging section, the predetermined function is a function related to output restriction of the reading result by the reading process, in which in the placed mode, no output restriction is performed, and in the portable mode, no output restriction is performed for the reading result of the information code determined by the reading range determination section to be within the predetermined range, and output restriction is performed for the reading result of the information code determined by the reading range determination section to be not within the predetermined range. The predetermined range may be set so as to be adjacent to the shielded area occupied by the tip in the captured image based on the shielded area.

[0039] As a result, the position of the information code captured by bringing the tip of the protective part closer to the information code occupies in the captured image is within the above-mentioned predetermined range. Therefore, in the portable mode, the read result of the information code captured by bringing the tip of the protective part closer to the information code is output, and the output of the read result of the information code captured unintentionally is restricted because the tip was not brought closer to the information code, so that it is possible to prevent unnecessary read results from being output.

[0040] The tip may be formed such that the shielded area is along one edge of the captured image. The shielded area is an area that cannot be used for capturing the information code. Therefore, by forming the tip such that the shielded area is along one edge of the captured image, the influence on the area that can be used for capturing the information code is reduced, and the necessary reading range can be secured in the placement mode.

[0041] The protective portion is formed by two extending pieces extending opposite each other through the reading port, and the two extending pieces are formed so that their respective extending ends are imaged by the imaging portion as tip portions, and the above-mentioned specified range may be set to be between a shielding area corresponding to one extending end and a shielding area corresponding to the other extending end.

[0042] This allows the user to operate the information code while looking at it so that the information code is positioned between the extended end of one extension piece and the extended end of the other extension piece, and the information code is not hidden by the protective part, improving the ease of reading in portable mode.

[0043] The information code reading device includes a setting unit that sets the above-mentioned specified range by determining, as a shielded area, an area occupied by the tip extracted from an image captured by an imaging unit at a specified timing, and a memory unit that stores information regarding the specified range set by the setting unit, and the reading range determination unit may make a determination using the information regarding the specified range stored in the memory unit.

[0044] As a result, the predetermined range is set from an actually captured image, so even if the shielding area varies from device to device due to variations in device manufacturing, the predetermined range is set according to the device, which improves the ease of reading in the portable mode based on the tip.

[0045] In the portable mode, no output restriction may be imposed on the read result of the information code of a predetermined code type, regardless of the determination result of the read range determination unit.

[0046] As a result, for information codes of a code type that is easily captured by mistake (e.g., a JAN code barcode), the need for output restriction is determined based on the judgment result of the read range judgment unit, and for information codes of a code type that is less likely to be captured by mistake (e.g., a Code128 barcode), output restriction is not required without taking into account the judgment result of the read range judgment unit.

[0047] In the portable mode, if there are multiple reading results of information codes that are determined to be within a specified range by the reading range determination unit, the reading result of the information code that is closest to a preset priority reading position may be output.

[0048] This allows the reading operation to be performed with consideration of the priority reading position, so that even if multiple information codes, including the information code to be read, are imaged approaching the tip of the protective part, only the reading result of the information code to be read can be output.

[0049] The specific pattern is an information code (hereinafter also referred to as a switching code) in which mode switching information is recorded, and is arranged on one surface of the stand. When the area in the captured image occupied by the switching code captured when in the placed state is regarded as the switching code area, the mode switching unit determines that the specific captured state is reached when the mode switching information is read by a reading process performed by the reading processing unit, and the reading processing unit may perform the reading process excluding the switching code area until a certain time has elapsed after the mode switching is performed by the mode switching unit.

[0050] As a result, immediately after the mode switching, reading of the normal information code that should be read can be given priority over the switching code until a certain time has elapsed, thereby improving the reading speed for reading the normal information code.

[0051] The specific pattern is an information code (switching code) in which mode switching information is recorded, and is arranged on one surface of the stand. When the area in the captured image occupied by the switching code captured in the placed state is taken as the switching code area, the mode switching unit determines that the specific captured state is reached when the mode switching information is read by a reading process performed by the reading processing unit. When an information code recording information different from the mode switching information is read by the reading processing unit in the placed mode, the reading processing unit may perform the reading process excluding the switching code area until a certain time has elapsed.

[0052] Thus, when an information code recording information different from mode switching information, i.e., a normal information code that should be read, is continuously read, reading of the normal information code can be given priority over the switching code, thereby improving the reading speed of the normal information code.

[0053] The specific pattern may be an information code in which function change information for changing the function of the reading process in the placement mode is recorded together with the mode switching information. This makes it possible to change the function of the reading process in the placement mode according to the shape of the placement table by setting the function change information so that the function is changed to a function suitable for the shape of the placement table.

[0054] The specific pattern is placed on one surface of the stand, and the information code reading device is provided with a reading area setting unit that sets a reading area within the imaging area of ​​the imaging unit that is to be subject to reading processing, and the reading area setting unit may change the reading area depending on the position of the specific pattern in the captured image during the placement mode.

[0055] The position of the specific pattern in the captured image changes according to the displacement of the information code reader relative to the stand. Therefore, even if the information code reader is placed misaligned relative to the stand, the reading area can be changed according to the displacement calculated from the position of the specific pattern in the captured image, so that the effect of the displacement on the reading process of the information code reader can be suppressed.

[0056] The specific pattern may be arranged on one surface of the stand, and the information code reading device may include a placement deviation notification unit that, when in placement mode, issues a notification regarding the placement deviation if the position of the specific pattern in the captured image deviates from a specified position.

[0057] As a result, if the information code reading device is placed out of place relative to the stand, the position of the specific pattern in the captured image will shift from the specified position, and the notification unit will issue the above-mentioned notification, so that the user who receives the notification can be urged to reposition the device.

[0058] The specific pattern is an information code (switching code) in which mode switching information is recorded so as to have an error correction function, and is arranged on one surface of the stand. The information code reading device may also be equipped with a deterioration notification unit that issues an alert regarding deterioration of the switching code when the number of error corrections reaches a certain number or more during a reading process in which the mode switching information is read by the reading processing unit.

[0059] As a result, when the number of error corrections exceeds a certain number due to deterioration over time or the like of the switching code, the deterioration notification unit will make the above-mentioned notification, and the user who receives the notification can be prompted to clean or replace the stand, etc. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0060] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing a state in which a reading device is placed on a stand in an information code reading system according to a first embodiment. FIG. [Diagram 2] 2 is a front view of the reading device and the stand in FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] 2 is a top view of the reading device and the stand in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 4] 2 is a side view of the reading device and the stand in FIG. 1. [Diagram 5] 2 is a perspective view of the reading device of FIG. 1 as seen from below. [Figure 6] 2 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic electrical configuration of the reading device of FIG. 1. [Figure 7] 11 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a masked area that is occupied by a part of the rubber tip in a captured image. FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the stand of FIG. 1. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a front view of the stand in FIG. 8. [Figure 10] FIG. 9 is a top view of the stand in FIG. 8. [Figure 11] FIG. 9 is a side view of the stand in FIG. 8. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a partial cross-sectional view for explaining an imaging area in a placed state in the first embodiment. [Figure 13]FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a captured image in a placed state in the first embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a captured image in a placed state in a first modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a captured image in a placed state in a second modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a captured image in a placed state in the third modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a captured image in a placed state in a fourth modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a captured image in a placed state in the fifth modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a state in which a reading device is placed on a stand in an information code reading system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 20] 20 is a perspective view of the reading device and the stand of FIG. 19, seen from below. [Figure 21] 20 is a front view of the reading device and the stand in FIG. 19. [Figure 22] 20 is a top view of the reading device and the stand in FIG. 19. FIG. [Figure 23] 20 is a side view of the reading device and the stand in FIG. 19. FIG. [Figure 24] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the stand of FIG. 19. [Diagram 25] FIG. 25 is a front view of the stand in FIG. 24. [Figure 26] FIG. 25 is a top view of the stand in FIG. 24. [Figure 27] FIG. 25 is a side view of the stand in FIG. 24. [Figure 28] FIG. 11 is a partial cross-sectional view for explaining an imaging area in a placed state in the second embodiment. [Figure 29] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a captured image in a placed state in the second embodiment. [Diagram 30]13 is a perspective view showing a state in which a reading device is placed on a stand in an information code reading system according to a first modified example of the second embodiment. FIG. [Diagram 31] 31 is a perspective view of the reading device and the stand in FIG. 30, seen from a different direction. [Diagram 32] 31 is a view of the reading device and the stand in FIG. 30 as viewed from the reading port side. [Diagram 33] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a state in which a reading device is placed on a stand in an information code reading system according to a second modified example of the second embodiment. [Diagram 34] 34 is a perspective view of the reading device and the stand in FIG. 33, seen from a different direction. FIG. [Diagram 35] FIG. 13 is a front view showing a state in which the reading device is placed on a stand in an information code reading system according to a third modified example of the third embodiment. [Diagram 36] FIG. 36(A) is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the display content of the display unit in the placed mode, and FIG. 36(B) is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the display content of the display unit in the portable mode. [Figure 37] 13 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of a reading process performed by a control unit of a reading device in a fourth embodiment. [Figure 38] An explanatory diagram explaining a method for calculating the amount of change, in which Figure 38(A) shows the position of the cord outline in the current captured image, and Figure 38(B) shows the position of the cord outline in the current captured image, the position of the cord outline in the previous captured image, and the Euclidean distance between the center positions of both. [Figure 39] 23 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of a reading process performed by a control unit of a reading device in a first modified example of the fourth embodiment. [Diagram 40] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a reading area that is set based on a shielded area in the fifth embodiment. [Diagram 41] 13 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of a reading process performed by a control unit of a reading device in a fifth embodiment. [Diagram 42]FIG. 42(A) is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a code outline that is determined to be within the reading area, and FIG. 42(B) is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a code outline that is determined to be outside the reading area. [Diagram 43] 23 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of a reading process performed by a control unit of a reading device in a first modified example of the fifth embodiment. [Diagram 44] An explanatory diagram illustrating the reading area set in the second variant of the fifth embodiment, where FIG. 44(A) shows a state in which the reading area is set to be between the two extended ends, and FIG. 44(B) shows a state in which the reading area is set to be at an intermediate position away from the two extended ends. [Diagram 45] FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a priority reading position set in a third modified example of the fifth embodiment. [Figure 46] 23 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of a mode switching process performed by a control unit of the reading device in the sixth embodiment. [Figure 47] An explanatory diagram illustrating the main parts of an information code reading system according to the seventh embodiment, in which FIG. 47(A) illustrates a stand in which the reading port and the guide portion are relatively close to each other, and FIG. 47(B) illustrates a stand in which the reading port and the guide portion are relatively far from each other. [Figure 48] An explanatory diagram illustrating the main parts of an information code reading system according to an eighth embodiment, in which Figure 48(A) shows the relationship between the reading area and the captured image when there is no misalignment, Figure 48(B) shows the relationship between the reading area that does not change when there is a misalignment and the captured image, and Figure 48(C) shows the relationship between the reading area that has been changed in accordance with the misalignment and the captured image. [Figure 49] 49A and 49B are explanatory diagrams illustrating the deterioration state of a switching code in the ninth embodiment, where FIG. 49A illustrates the deterioration state due to dirt adhesion, FIG. 49B illustrates the deterioration state due to label peeling, and FIG. 49C illustrates the deterioration state due to fading of printing. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0061] [First embodiment] Hereinafter, a first embodiment of an information code reading system according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The information code reading system 1 shown in Fig. 1 to Fig. 4 is configured to include a portable information code reading device (hereinafter also referred to as a reading device 10) that performs a reading process to optically read information codes such as one-dimensional codes and two-dimensional codes, and a stand 100 on which the reading device 10 can be placed. Here, examples of one-dimensional codes include so-called barcodes such as JAN codes, EAN codes, UPC codes, ITF codes, Code39, Code128, and NW-7. Examples of two-dimensional codes include rectangular information codes such as QR codes (registered trademark), data matrix codes, maxicodes, and Aztec codes.

[0062] The reading device 10 is provided with a placed mode for performing a reading process in a placed state on the stand 100, and a portable mode for performing a reading process in a portable state. The placed mode is a mode in which reading process is performed on the premise that an operation is performed to point an information code toward the reading port of the placed reading device 10, assuming that a customer who is unfamiliar with the operation is in the placed mode. The portable mode is a mode in which reading process is performed on the premise that an operation is performed to point the reading port of the reading device 10 toward an information code, assuming that a store clerk who is familiar with the operation is in the placed mode. The placed mode and the portable mode have different predetermined functions, which will be described later.

[0063] The outer shell of the reading device 10 is formed by a housing 11 constituted by assembling an upper case 11a and a lower case 11b made of synthetic resin such as ABS resin, and a circuit section 20 made of various electric components and the like is mounted on a circuit board or the like and housed within this housing 11. The housing 11 is equipped with a reading section 12 having a reading opening 14 for introducing reflected light from an information code into the inside and a protective section 15 for protecting the reading opening 14, and a gripping section 13 which is gripped when the reading opening 14 is directed toward the information code in the portable mode.

[0064] When the longitudinal direction of the grip part 13 is taken as the horizontal direction, the reading part 12 is connected to the grip part 13 so that it extends obliquely downward from one longitudinal end of the grip part 13, with the reading opening 14 and the protective part 15 located at the extended end. That is, the housing 11 is formed in a bent shape with one end where the reading opening 14 and the protective part 15 are formed, leaning significantly forward toward the back side. This makes it easy for the user to point the reading opening 14 toward the information code when holding the grip part 13 between his / her fingertips from the upper case 11a side in the portable mode.

[0065] As shown in Fig. 5, the protective part 15 is formed so that the lower part is largely open, and the tip part of the protective part 15 is composed of a black rubber tip 16. As a result, when performing touch reading in the portable mode, the information code is read with the rubber tip 16 in contact with the display surface on which the information code is displayed. In particular, in this embodiment, the rubber tip 16 is formed so that a part of it is reflected along the upper edge of the captured image captured through the reading port 14 as described later. In addition, a cable attachment part 18 for holding a cable 17 for communication and power supply is formed on the other end side of the housing 11 (the other side in the longitudinal direction of the grip part 13).

[0066] Next, the electrical configuration of the reading device 10 will be described with reference to the drawings. As shown in FIG. 6, the circuit section 20 housed in the housing 11 mainly includes an optical system including an illumination section 21, a marker light irradiation section 22, a light receiving sensor 23, and an imaging lens 25, as well as a microcomputer (hereinafter referred to as "microcomputer") system including a memory 35 and a control section 40.

[0067] The optical system is divided into a light projection optical system and a light receiving optical system. The light projection optical system is composed of an illumination unit 21 and a marker light irradiation unit 22. The illumination unit 21 functions as an illumination light source capable of emitting illumination light Lf, and is composed of, for example, a red LED and a lens provided on the emission side of the LED.

[0068] The marker light emitting unit 22 functions as a marker light source capable of emitting marker light Lm for indicating an imaging area (imaging field of view) using the light receiving sensor 23, and is composed of, for example, an LED and a lens provided on the emission side of the LED. Note that Fig. 6 conceptually shows an example in which the illumination light Lf and the marker light Lm are irradiated toward the display surface R to which the information code C is attached.

[0069] The light receiving optical system is composed of a light receiving sensor 23, an imaging lens 25, a reflector (not shown), etc. The light receiving sensor 23 is configured as an area sensor in which light receiving elements, which are solid-state imaging elements such as C-MOS or CCD, are arranged two-dimensionally, and is configured to output an electrical signal according to the intensity of the reflected light Lr for each light receiving element. The light receiving sensor 23 is mounted on a circuit board or the like so as to be able to receive incident light that enters via the imaging lens 25. The light receiving sensor 23, etc. may correspond to an example of an "imaging section."

[0070] The imaging lens 25 functions as an imaging optical system capable of focusing incident light incident from the outside through the reading port 14 and forming an image on the light receiving surface 23a of the light receiving sensor 23. In this embodiment, after the illumination light Lf, etc. irradiated from the illumination unit 21 is reflected by the information code, the reflected light Lr is focused by the imaging lens 25 and a code image is formed on the light receiving surface 23a of the light receiving sensor 23.

[0071] The microcomputer system is composed of an amplifier circuit 31, an A / D conversion circuit 33, a memory 35, an address generation circuit 36, a synchronization signal generation circuit 38, a control unit 40, a light emission unit 43, an alarm sound unit 44, a vibrator 45, a communication interface 48, etc. As its name suggests, this microcomputer system is composed mainly of the control unit 40 and memory 35 that can function as a microcomputer (information processing device), and can process the image signal of the information code captured by the above-mentioned optical system in terms of hardware and software.

[0072] An image signal (analog signal) output from the light receiving sensor 23 of the optical system is input to an amplifier circuit 31 where it is amplified at a predetermined gain, and then input to an A / D conversion circuit 33 where it is converted from an analog signal to a digital signal. The digitized image signal, i.e., image data (image information), is input to a memory 35 where it is stored in an image data storage area. The synchronization signal generation circuit 38 is configured to be able to generate a synchronization signal for the light receiving sensor 23 and the address generation circuit 36, and the address generation circuit 36 ​​is configured to be able to generate a storage address of the image data to be stored in the memory 35 based on the synchronization signal supplied from the synchronization signal generation circuit 38.

[0073] The memory 35 is a semiconductor memory device, such as a RAM (DRAM, SRAM, etc.) or a ROM (EPROM, EEPROM, etc.). In addition to the image data storage area described above, the RAM of the memory 35 is configured to be able to secure a work area and a reading condition table used by the control unit 40 when performing arithmetic operations, logical operations, and other processes related to the reading process. In addition, the ROM stores in advance system programs and the like that can control each piece of hardware such as the illumination unit 21 and the light receiving sensor 23.

[0074] The control unit 40 is a microcomputer capable of controlling the entire reading device 10, and is composed of a CPU, a system bus, an input / output interface, etc., and can constitute an information processing device together with the memory 35, and has an information processing function. The control unit 40 functions as a reading processing unit that performs reading processing on an information code imaged using the light receiving sensor 23, etc., which functions as an imaging unit. The control unit 40 is configured to be connectable to various input / output devices (peripheral devices) via a built-in input / output interface, and in this embodiment, a light emitting unit 43, an alarm sound unit 44, a vibrator 45, a communication interface 48, etc. are connected.

[0075] The light emitting unit 43 is, for example, an LED, and is configured to light up or blink in response to a signal from the control unit 40. The sound alert unit 44 is configured to have a known buzzer or the like, and is configured to emit a predetermined buzzer sound or the like in response to an operation signal from the control unit 40. The vibrator 45 is configured with a known vibrator mounted on a portable device, and is configured to generate a predetermined vibration in response to a drive signal from the control unit 40. The communication interface 48 is configured as an interface for performing data communication and wireless communication via the cable 17 with an external device (host) such as the POS terminal 50, and is configured to perform communication processing in cooperation with the control unit 40.

[0076] In the reading device 10 thus configured, when the control unit 40 performs a reading process on the captured information code, the mode switching process performed by the control unit 40 determines that the device is in a portable state as described below, and switches the device to the portable mode. In the portable mode thus switched to, the reading result of the information code whose distance (reading distance) to the reading port 14 is not equal to or greater than a predetermined distance becomes the data output target, and the reading result of the information code whose distance is equal to or greater than the predetermined distance is restricted from being output. That is, only the information code near the reading port 14 is read, and the reading result is output to the POS terminal 50 via the communication interface 48. As a result, if a store clerk or the like who is accustomed to the operation reads multiple information codes, an unintended distant information code is not read, and the reading operation can be performed smoothly. The control unit 40 which performs the above-mentioned mode switching process may correspond to an example of a "mode switching unit".

[0077] On the other hand, in the reading device 10, the control unit 40 performs a mode switching process to switch to the placed mode by determining that the device is in the placed state, as described below. In the placed mode thus switched to, the reading result of the information code that has been successfully read is output to the POS terminal 50 via the communication interface 48, without considering the reading distance. This allows even customers who are unfamiliar with the operation to perform the reading operation reliably.

[0078] In addition, in the reading device 10, as shown in Fig. 7, a part of the rubber chip 16 is reflected on the upper edge of the captured image P. Therefore, the area in the captured image P occupied by the part of the rubber chip 16 (hereinafter, also referred to as the masked area Ps) is an area that cannot be used for capturing the information code, and the area other than the masked area Ps is used for capturing the information code. Note that, for convenience, the masked area Ps is illustrated with hatching in Fig. 7 and other figures.

[0079] Next, the stand 100 on which the reading device 10 is placed will be described with reference to the drawings. 1 to 4 and 8 to 11, the stand 100 includes a first support 110 that supports a bent portion between the reading unit 12 and the grip unit 13 of the reading device 10, a second support 120 that supports the other longitudinal side of the grip unit 13 of the reading device 10, and a base 130 that connects the first support 110 and the second support 120. The stand 100 is placed on the placement surface S with the base 130 supported at a predetermined angle by the upper end of a support 102 erected on the base 101. For convenience, the base 101 and the support 102 are shown only in FIG. 4 and FIG. 11 and are omitted in the other drawings.

[0080] The first support section 110 is formed so that the reading device 10 is unlikely to shift position when placed on the table by having two support pieces arranged in a substantially V-shape that support the bent neck section of the reading device 10 from below while contacting the side surface of the housing 11. The second support section 120 is formed so that its support surface is curved in a concave shape to match the shape of the lower surface of the grip section 13 that it comes into contact with when placed on the table.

[0081] In addition, the stand 100 is equipped with a guide portion 140 located in front of the reading port 14 (reading direction) when the stand 100 is placed on the table, a fixed portion 150 fixed to the base 130, and a connecting piece 160 for connecting and supporting the guide portion 140 to the fixed portion 150.

[0082] Guide portion 140 is configured as a frame for forming opening 141 that functions as a reading port when in the placed state, and includes upper edge portion 142, lower edge portion 143, left edge portion 144, and right edge portion 145. As shown in Fig. 11, left edge portion 144 is formed in a bent state in which the lower portion is longer than the upper portion so that the connecting portion with one end 161 of connecting piece 160 protrudes forward (in the reading direction). Similarly, right edge portion 145 is formed in a bent state in which the lower portion is longer than the upper portion so that the connecting portion with the other end 162 of connecting piece 160 protrudes forward.

[0083] The guide portion 140 is formed so that the upper edge portion 142, the left edge portion 144, and the right edge portion 145 are not imaged by the reading device 10 in the placed state, but a part of the inner surface 143a of the lower edge portion 143 is imaged. In this embodiment, an information code (hereinafter, also referred to as a switching code SP1) in which mode switching information is recorded is arranged as a specific pattern by pasting or the like on the part of the inner surface 143a imaged in the placed state. Note that the inner surface 143a of the lower edge portion 143 may correspond to "one surface of the stand" imaged in the placed state.

[0084] The switching code SP1 is an information code for switching the reading device 10 that has read the mode switching information to the placement mode. In this embodiment, the switching code SP1 is configured as a bar code.

[0085] In the placed state where the reading device 10 is placed on the stand 100 configured as described above, as shown in FIG. 12, a part of the rubber tip 16 of the reading device 10 itself and a part of the inner surface 143a of the lower edge portion 143 of the stand 100 are within the imaging area E1 of the reading device 10. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 13, the image captured in the placed state is captured so that the shielding area Ps formed by a part of the rubber tip 16 becomes the upper edge portion and a part of the inner surface 143a is reflected in the lower edge portion. That is, in the state where the switching code SP1 is imaged and read (hereinafter, also referred to as the specific imaging state), it can be determined that the device is in the placed state. In FIG. 12, the reading area in which the information code can be imaged and read out of the imaging area E1 indicated by two dashed double-dashed lines is indicated by two dashed dotted lines and designated by the symbol E2.

[0086] For this reason, in the above-mentioned mode switching process, a determination is made as to whether or not the specific imaging state is being reached based on whether or not the imaging state is one in which the mode switching information can be read, and if it is determined that the specific imaging state is being reached, it is determined to be in a placement state and is switched to the placement mode.

[0087] In the placed mode thus switched to, when an information code is held over the opening 141 of the guide section 140, the information code is imaged and read by the reader 10 in the placed state, and the read result is output to the POS terminal 50 via the communication interface 48. As described above, in the placed mode, the output of the read result is not limited depending on the reading distance, so even a customer who is unfamiliar with the operation can perform the reading operation by simply bringing the information code close to the opening 141.

[0088] On the other hand, in a portable state where the reading device 10 is removed from the stand 100, part of the inner surface 143a of the lower edge 143 of the stand 100 is not imaged, resulting in an image as shown in Fig. 7. Therefore, in a state where the mode switching information is not read (a state where the specific image capturing state is not determined), the state is determined to be the portable state, and the mode is switched to the portable mode.

[0089] As described above, in the information code reading system 1 of this embodiment, the reading device 10 is switched to the placed mode by the mode switching process performed by the control unit 40 when it is determined that a specific imaging state is present in which the switching code SP1 is imaged, and is switched to the portable mode when it is not determined that a specific imaging state is present.

[0090] As a result, simply by placing the reading device 10 on the stand 100, the reading device 10 captures an image of the switching code SP1 and switches to the placed mode. Also, simply by removing the reading device 10 from the stand 100, the reading device 10 no longer captures an image of the switching code SP1, and the reading device 10 switches to the portable mode. In this way, it is possible to realize an information code reading system 1 that can determine whether or not mode switching is required by utilizing a captured image used to read the information code, without employing a separate sensor such as a motion sensor.

[0091] In this embodiment, an information code (switching code SP1) in which mode switching information is recorded is adopted as the specific pattern for mode switching determination. Since the information code is generated so as to be easily recognized from the captured image for that purpose, it is possible to more accurately determine whether the information code in which the mode switching information is recorded is captured, i.e., whether the specific image capturing state is present.

[0092] In this embodiment, the switching code SP1 configured as the specific pattern is arranged on one surface of the stand 100 imaged by the reader 10 in the placed state, specifically, on the inner surface 143a of the lower edge 143. This makes the position of the switching code SP1 in the image captured in the placed state constant, so that it is possible to more accurately determine whether or not the specific image capture state is in place. Depending on the environment in which the information code reading system 1 is used, the switching code SP1 may be arranged on one surface of the stand 100 different from the guide section 140, or may be arranged on a portion different from the stand 100, for example, on the placement surface S, on the premise that the switching code SP1 is imaged by the reader 10 in the placed state.

[0093] As a first modified example of this embodiment, on the premise that only the upper edge 142 of the guide part 140 is imaged by the reading device 10 in the placed state, the switching code SP1 may be disposed on the upper edge 142. In this case, as illustrated in Fig. 14, the switching code SP1 is imaged and read near the shielded area Ps in the captured image, so that it is possible to determine that the product is in the placed state and switch to the placed mode.

[0094] As a second modification of this embodiment, the switching code SP1 may be arranged on both the left edge 144 and the right edge 145 of the guide part 140, on the premise that only the left edge 144 and the right edge 145 of the guide part 140 are imaged by the reading device 10 in the placed state. In this case, as illustrated in FIG. 15, the switching code SP1 is imaged and read on both the left and right sides, so that it is determined that the guide part 140 is in the placed state and the guide part 140 can be switched to the placed mode. Note that, the above effect can be obtained even if the switching code SP1 is arranged on the left edge 144, on the premise that only the left edge 144 of the guide part 140 is imaged by the reading device 10 in the placed state. Similarly, the above effect can be obtained even if the switching code SP1 is arranged on the right edge 145 of the guide part 140, on the premise that only the right edge 145 of the guide part 140 is imaged by the reading device 10 in the placed state.

[0095] As a third modified example of this embodiment, a distinctive identification mark may be adopted instead of an information code as a specific pattern for determining mode switching provided on a portion of the guide section 140 that is imaged by the reading device 10 in the placed state. Specifically, for example, a plurality of dark-colored circular shapes arranged at a predetermined interval as illustrated in Fig. 16 are imaged as the distinctive identification mark SP2, whereby it is possible to determine that the device is in the placed state and switch to the placed mode.

[0096] As a fourth modified example of this embodiment, a switching code SP3 consisting of a two-dimensional code as exemplified in FIG. 17 may be adopted as a specific pattern for mode switching determination provided on a portion of the guide section 140 that is imaged by the reader 10 in the placed state. Since the amount of recordable information can be increased compared to a one-dimensional code, not only mode switching information but also other information (for example, information indicating the mode switching timing) can be recorded in the switching code SP3. Note that, in FIG. 17, a rectangular rMQR code that is easy to print in a narrow space is adopted as the two-dimensional code, but this is not limiting and other types of two-dimensional codes may be adopted.

[0097] As a fifth modified example of this embodiment, a specific shape (characteristic shape) formed on the guide section 140 itself may be adopted as a specific pattern for mode switching determination provided on a portion of the guide section 140 that is imaged by the reading device 10 in the placed state. Specifically, for example, a plurality of notches formed to be aligned at a predetermined interval as illustrated in Fig. 18 are imaged as the specific shape SP4, whereby it is possible to determine that the device is in the placed state and switch to the placed mode.

[0098] When an identification mark or a specific shape different from the information code is used as the specific pattern as described above, position specifying information capable of specifying the position of the specific pattern in the captured image in the placed state can be stored in advance in the memory 35 functioning as a storage unit. In such a case, the mode switching process performed by the control unit 40 can use the position specifying information stored in the memory 35 to determine whether or not the specific imaging state is being established.

[0099] This allows accurate grasping of the position in the captured image where the specific pattern is captured in the placed state, and therefore allows more accurate determination of whether or not the specific imaging state is in place. Even when an information code is used as the specific pattern, the above effect can be achieved by storing the position specifying information in advance in the memory 35 and using it to determine the specific imaging state.

[0100] The reading device 10 may be formed so that a part of itself, such as the rubber tip 16, is not reflected in the image captured through the reading port 14.

[0101] [Second embodiment] Next, an information code reading system according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The second embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the stand is formed so that one end of the stand is reflected in the shielded area in the captured image in the placed state. Therefore, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and the description thereof is omitted.

[0102] In the information code reading system 1a of this embodiment, a stand 200 is adopted instead of the stand 100, on the assumption that the same reading device 10 is placed on the information code reading system 1 of the first embodiment described above.

[0103] 19 to 27, the stand 200 is provided with a first support portion 210 that supports the reading unit 12 of the reading device 10, and a second support portion 220 that supports the other longitudinal side of the gripping unit 13 of the reading device 10. The second support portion 220 is formed so that its support surface is curved in a concave shape to match the shape of the underside of the gripping unit 13 that comes into contact with it when in a placed state.

[0104] The first support portion 210 is formed with a support surface 211 that supports the protective portion 15 of the reading portion 12, sides 212, 213 for clamping both sides of the reading portion 12 from the left and right, and an opening 214 for exposing the reading port 14 of the reading device 10 in the placed state.

[0105] 28, the support surface 211 is formed to enter inside the protective part 15, which is widely open at the bottom, and to provide support from below by making surface contact with the inner surface of the protective part 15. For this reason, the support surface 211 is formed in a curved convex shape to match the curved concave shape of the inner surface of the protective part 15.

[0106] Moreover, the stand 200 is formed so that an end portion (hereinafter also referred to as one end portion 230) located on the opposite side of the support surface 211 (the side away from the opening 214) is imaged by the placed reading device 10 through the opening 214 and the reading port 14 (see image capturing area E1 in FIG. 28). More specifically, as shown in FIGS. 20 and 28, the one end portion 230 is formed so as to cover the opening side (the side closer to the opening 214) of the inner surface of the rubber tip 16 of the placed reading device 10 but not to cover the opposite side.

[0107] By configuring the stand 200 in this manner, the one end 230 is imaged by the reading device 10 in the placed state while hiding a part of the rubber tip 16, as shown in Fig. 29. In this image capturing state, the one end 230 is imaged so as to be within the shielded area Ps that the rubber tip 16 occupies in the captured image P and not to protrude downward from the shielded area Ps.

[0108] For this reason, in the mode switching process performed by the control unit 40 in this embodiment, it is possible to determine whether or not the specific imaging state is present, based on whether or not the imaging state is one in which the one end 230 is imaged so as to hide a part of the rubber tip 16. If it is determined that the imaging state is as shown in Fig. 29 and thus the specific imaging state is present, the device is considered to be in the placed state and switched to the placed mode. On the other hand, if it is determined that the imaging state is as shown in Fig. 7 and thus the specific imaging state is not present, the device is considered to be in the portable state and switched to the portable mode.

[0109] As described above, in the information code reading system 1a according to this embodiment, the housing 11 of the reader 10 is provided with the protective section 15 for protecting the reading port 14, and the protective section 15 is formed so that the rubber tip 16, which is the tip, is always imaged. The stand 200 is formed so that the one end 230 is imaged in a state where at least a part of the rubber tip 16 is hidden when the stand is placed. The one end 230 imaged in the placed state is adopted as the specific pattern.

[0110] The rubber chip 16 is always imaged, and the shielded area Ps that the rubber chip 16 occupies in the captured image P is an area that cannot be used for imaging the information code, and the area other than the shielded area Ps is an area for imaging the information code. In the placed state, one end 230 of the stand 200 is reflected in the shielded area Ps, so it is possible to determine whether the stand 200 is in the placed state or not depending on whether the one end 230 of the stand 200 that functions as a specific pattern is imaged in the shielded area Ps. In particular, since the shielded area Ps that cannot be used for imaging the information code can be used to determine the placed state, the image area in which the information code can be read in the placed mode can be made wider compared to the case in which the specific pattern is always imaged in an area different from the shielded area Ps in the placed mode. Furthermore, since the rubber chip 16 is formed so that the shielded area Ps is aligned with the upper edge (one edge) of the captured image, the influence on the area that can be used for imaging the information code is small, so that the necessary reading range in the placed mode can be secured.

[0111] In particular, the stand 200 is provided with a first support portion 210 that supports the inner surface of the protective portion 15 from below without being included in the imaging area E1 of the reading device 10 when placed on the stand 200. This allows the reading device 10 to be stably placed on the stand 200 by supporting the protective portion 15 with the first support portion 210 without affecting the imaging area E1 of the reading device 10.

[0112] In addition, the one end 230 is not limited to being formed so as to cover the upper edge of the shielded area Ps in the captured image P, but may be formed, for example, so as to cover the central portion of the upper edge of the shielded area Ps, or so as to cover the left edge or right edge of the shielded area Ps.

[0113] As a first modification of this embodiment, a stand may be employed in which a support part is formed in a beam shape to support the inner surface of the protective part 15 from below. Specifically, for example, as illustrated in Fig. 30 to Fig. 32, a stand 200a may be employed which includes a beam-shaped first support part 210a that supports the inner surface of the protective part 15 from below and a second support part 220a that supports the bent part.

[0114] The first support part 210a has an upper surface that supports the inner surface of the protective part 15 and is formed in a curved convex shape so as to conform to the inner surface. The second support part 220a has a surface that supports the grip part 13 from below and is formed in a curved concave shape so as to roughly support the grip part 13. In addition, the lower end part 230a located below the first support part 210a is formed, like the one end part 230, so as to cover the opening side of the inner surface of the rubber tip 16 of the reader 10 in the placed state and not cover the anti-opening side.

[0115] Even in this manner, in the mode switching process, it is possible to determine whether or not the specific imaging state is present, based on whether or not the imaging state is such that the lower end portion 230a is imaged so as to hide a portion of the rubber tip 16.

[0116] In particular, even if the protective part 15 is placed so that it is slightly misaligned in the left-right curvature direction relative to the first support part 210a, the inner surface of the protective part 15 and the upper surface of the first support part 210a come into surface contact and are stable, so the reading device 10 can be roughly placed on the stand 200a.

[0117] As a second modification of this embodiment, a stand formed to be attached to the rubber tip 16 of the reading device 10 in the placed state may be adopted. Specifically, for example, as illustrated in Fig. 33 and Fig. 34, a stand 200b including a first covering part 240 that covers the rubber tip 16 from above and a second covering part 250 that covers the rubber tip 16 from below may be adopted.

[0118] The second covering portion 250 is formed so as to cover the opening side of the inner surface of the rubber chip 16 of the reading device 10 in the placed state but not cover the opposite opening side. Therefore, in the placed state, the inner surface of the rubber chip 16 on the opposite opening side is exposed between the first covering portion 240 and the second covering portion 250. In particular, the second covering portion 250 is formed so that in the captured image P in the placed state, the rubber chip 16 is within the shielding region Ps that occupies the captured image P and does not protrude downward from the shielding region Ps.

[0119] Even in this manner, in the mode switching process, it is possible to determine whether or not the specific imaging state is present based on whether or not the imaging state is such that the second covering portion 250 is imaged to hide a portion of the rubber tip 16.

[0120] [Third embodiment] Next, an information code reading system according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The third embodiment is different from the second embodiment in that not only the output limit according to the reading distance but also other predetermined functions are different between the placed mode and the portable mode. Therefore, the same reference numerals are used for the components substantially the same as those in the second embodiment, and the description thereof is omitted.

[0121] The reading device 10 of this embodiment is configured such that, in addition to the output limitation according to the reading distance described in the first embodiment above, the notification function regarding the alarm sound by the alarm unit 44 indicating successful reading during the reading process is different between the placed mode and the portable mode.

[0122] If the alarm sound made by the alarm unit 44 in the placed mode and the portable mode are the same, for example, before a customer reads the information code of a product in the placed mode, the customer may mistakenly believe that the information code is being read because of the alarm sound made by the nearby store clerk in response to an operation in the portable mode.

[0123] For this reason, in this embodiment, the notification sound by the notification unit 44 when the reading process is successful in the placed mode is different from the notification sound by the notification unit 44 when the reading process is successful in the portable mode. Specifically, the frequency and ringing time of the notification sound when reading is successful in the placed mode are 3 kHz and 1 second, and the frequency and ringing time of the notification sound when reading is successful in the portable mode are 4 kHz and 0.5 seconds.

[0124] In this way, by using different notification sounds in the placement mode, which is intended to be operated by a customer, and in the portable mode, which is intended to be operated by a store clerk, it is possible to prevent the above-mentioned misconceptions.

[0125] The notification sound when reading is successful that changes between the placed mode and the portable mode is not limited to the frequency and ringing time, and may be a different sound source such as a "beep" or a "squeak." Also, for example, in one of the placed mode and the portable mode (for example, the placed mode), the reading device 10 itself may issue a notification sound using the notification sound unit 44, and in the other mode, an external device such as the POS terminal 50 may be instructed to issue a notification sound, causing the POS terminal 50 to issue the notification sound.

[0126] As a first modified example of this embodiment, the predetermined function to be different between the placed mode and the portable mode may be a function related to the emission of the illumination light Lf by the illumination unit 21. Specifically, the brightness of the illumination light Lf emitted from the illumination unit 21 in the portable mode can be made darker than the brightness of the illumination light Lf emitted from the illumination unit 21 in the placed mode.

[0127] In the portable mode, touch reading is often performed by bringing the reading port 14 close to the information code, so that even if the illumination light Lf is dim, the reading process is not hindered. On the other hand, in the placed mode, it is often necessary to read an information code located at a position some distance away from the reading port 14, so that the illumination light Lf needs to be bright. For this reason, by making the brightness of the illumination light Lf in the portable mode darker than the brightness of the illumination light Lf in the placed mode, the brightness of the illumination light Lf can be appropriately controlled according to the switched mode.

[0128] As a second modified example of this embodiment, the predetermined function that is to be different between the placed mode and the portable mode may be a function related to the irradiation of the marker light Lm by the marker light irradiator 22. Specifically, the marker light irradiator 22 can irradiate the marker light Lm in the placed mode, and the irradiation of the marker light Lm can be stopped in the portable mode.

[0129] In the portable mode, since touch reading is often performed by bringing the reading port 14 close to the information code, there is no need to irradiate the marker light Lm, and when the reading port 14 is aimed at the next information code while the marker light Lm is still irradiated, people nearby who see the marker light Lm may feel dazzled. On the other hand, in the placed mode, since information codes located at a certain distance from the reading port 14 are often read, it is possible to control whether or not to irradiate the marker light Lm according to the switched mode.

[0130] As a third modified example of this embodiment, regarding the predetermined function to be different between the placed mode and the portable mode, a function related to the display by the display unit 49 may be adopted on the premise that the reading device 10 includes the display unit 49, as exemplified in Fig. 35. Specifically, the display by the display unit 49 in the placed mode and the display by the display unit 49 in the portable mode can be made different.

[0131] This allows the display contents to be different between the placed mode operated by the customer and the portable mode operated by the store clerk. For example, in the placed mode, as shown in Fig. 36(A), it is possible to display information on how to operate the device for customers who are unfamiliar with the operation, and in the portable mode, as shown in Fig. 36(B), it is possible to display advertisements for customers who are looking at the device operated by the store clerk. In the placed mode, information on the result of reading the information code can also be displayed on the display unit 49.

[0132] As a fourth modified example of this embodiment, a function related to the output destination of the read result may be adopted as a predetermined function that is different between the placed mode and the portable mode. Specifically, for example, in one of the placed mode and the portable mode (e.g., the portable mode), the read result may be output to the POS terminal 50 via the cable 17 by the communication interface 48, and in the other mode, the read result may be output to a tablet terminal or the like by wireless communication by the communication interface 48.

[0133] As a fifth modified example of this embodiment, a vibration function may be adopted for the predetermined function that is different between the placed mode and the portable mode by using the vibrator 45. Specifically, for example, in the portable mode, the vibrator 45 may be vibrated when the reading process is successful, and in the placed mode, the vibrator 45 may not be vibrated when the reading process is successful.

[0134] The characteristic configuration of this embodiment and each of the modified examples in which the predetermined functions are different between the placed mode and the portable mode can also be applied to other embodiments, etc.

[0135] [Fourth embodiment] Next, an information code reading system according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The fourth embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that whether or not the reading distance is equal to or greater than a predetermined distance is determined using a captured image of an information code. Therefore, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their description is omitted.

[0136] As in the first embodiment, the reading device 10 according to this embodiment employs a function related to output restriction of the reading result by the reading process as a predetermined function that differs between the placed mode and the portable mode, and output restriction is not performed in the placed mode. On the other hand, in the portable mode in this embodiment, whether or not the reading distance is equal to or greater than a predetermined distance is determined using a captured image of an information code, and output restriction is not performed on the reading result of an information code whose reading distance is determined to be less than the predetermined distance, but output restriction is performed on the reading result of an information code whose reading distance is determined to be equal to or greater than the predetermined distance.

[0137] Due to such output restriction in the portable mode, even if an unintended distant information code is imaged when the reading port 14 is directed toward the information code to be read, the output of the reading result is restricted, so that it is possible to prevent unnecessary reading results from being output. On the other hand, in the placed mode, an operation is required to direct the information code itself toward the reading port 14, so that an unintended information code is not imaged. In this way, it is possible to control whether or not to restrict the output of the reading result according to the switched mode.

[0138] Furthermore, in the portable mode of this embodiment, no output restriction is imposed on the reading results of an information code that is determined not to have moved relative to the reading port 14, even if the reading distance of the information code is determined to be greater than or equal to a predetermined distance.

[0139] If an unintended information code is imaged when the reading port 14 is directed toward the information code to be read, the information code is imaged as if it is moving relatively to the reading port 14. On the other hand, when the reading port 14 is directed toward the information code to be read, the relative position between the reading port 14 and the information code does not change, and the information code is imaged as if it is not moving relatively. In other words, an information code that is not moving relatively (an information code that is not determined to be in a relative movement state) is considered to be an information code to be read, and output restriction is not imposed even if the reading distance is equal to or greater than a predetermined distance, thereby making it possible to control so that the reading result that should be output is not restricted.

[0140] The reading process performed by the control unit 40 in this embodiment will be described in detail below with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. When the reading process is started by the control unit 40, a process is performed to decode the information code imaged through the reading port 14 (S101 in FIG. 37). If this decoding process is successful (Yes in S102) and the switching code SP1 has not been decoded (No in S103), the mode is switched to the portable mode (S104).

[0141] Next, a read distance calculation process is performed in step S105. In this process, a read distance is calculated based on the size of the cells that make up the information code in the captured image of the information code.

[0142] The size of the cells of the information code in the captured image becomes smaller as the reading distance (the distance from the information code to the reading port 14) becomes longer. Therefore, without employing a distance measuring sensor or the like, it is possible to calculate the reading distance based on the size of the cells of the information code in the captured image and determine whether the reading distance thus calculated is equal to or greater than a predetermined distance.

[0143] Specifically, for example, when reading a JAN code barcode, the basic dimension of the cell (module) in the JAN code is 0.33 mm, and the size of the cell in the captured image at a reading distance equivalent to touch reading can be determined from the design. Therefore, the reading distance can be calculated from the size of the cell of the information code in the captured image. Note that a table for calculating the reading distance from the size of the cell of the information code in the captured image can also be created in advance for each code type.

[0144] When the reading distance is calculated as described above, in the judgment process of step S106, it is judged whether or not the reading distance calculated as described above is equal to or greater than a predetermined distance. Here, if it is judged that the reading distance is not equal to or greater than the predetermined distance because touch reading is performed in the portable mode (No in S106), the reading result output process of step S113 is performed. In this process, the reading result of the information code for which it is judged that the reading distance is not equal to or greater than the predetermined distance is output to the POS terminal 50 via the communication interface 48 without output restriction. Note that the control unit 40 that performs the processes (reading distance judgment process) of steps S105 and S106 described above may correspond to an example of a "reading distance judgment unit."

[0145] On the other hand, if it is determined that the calculated reading distance is equal to or greater than the predetermined distance (Yes in S106), the decoding process is performed again (S107), and if the same decoded result is obtained (Yes in S108), the change amount calculation process shown in step S109 is performed. In this process, the change amount equivalent to the movement amount of the information code is calculated based on the difference between the position of the information code in the captured image and the position of the information code in the previous captured image (captured image a predetermined time ago) from which the same decoded result was obtained.

[0146] Specifically, the center coordinates (C1x, C1y) of the information code on the captured image are calculated (see FIG. 38(A)), and the Euclidean distance Lc between the center coordinates (C2x, C2y) of the information code on the previous captured image is calculated as the amount of change (see FIG. 38(B)). For convenience, in FIG. 38(A), the information code captured this time is illustrated as a code outline made of solid lines, and in FIG. 38(B), the information code captured last time is further illustrated as a code outline made of two-dot chain lines in addition to FIG. 38(A).

[0147] Next, in the determination process of step S110, it is determined whether the successfully decoded information code is in a relative movement state. Here, if the amount of change calculated as described above is equal to or less than a specified value, it is determined that the relative movement state is not present (No in S110), and the information code reading result is output to the POS terminal 50 (S113). In other words, no output restriction is imposed on the reading result of the information code that is not determined to be in a relative movement state by the relative movement determination process, regardless of the determination result of the reading distance determination process. Note that the control unit 40 that performs the processes (relative movement determination process) of steps S109 and S110 described above may correspond to an example of a "relative movement determination unit."

[0148] On the other hand, if the amount of change calculated as described above exceeds the specified value, it is determined that there is relative movement (Yes in S110), and the result of reading the information code is discarded without being output (S114).

[0149] Furthermore, if the switching code SP1 is decoded (Yes in S103), the mode is switched to the placement mode (S111), and if an information code other than the switching code SP1 is read (Yes in S112), the reading result is output to the POS terminal 50 (S113).

[0150] In the determination process of step S110, the detection result of a G sensor separately provided in the reading device 10 may be used to determine whether the successfully decoded information code is in a relative movement state.

[0151] As a modified example of this embodiment, in the portable mode, the output restriction may not be performed on the read result of the information code of a predetermined code type, regardless of the judgment result of the read distance judgment process. Specifically, as shown in the flowchart in Fig. 39, after switching to the portable mode (S104), if the code type of the information code is the specified predetermined code type (Yes in S115), the above-mentioned process from step S105 onwards is performed, and if it is not the specified predetermined code type (No in S115), the read result is output (S113).

[0152] As a result, for an information code of a code type that is easily photographed by mistake (for example, a JAN barcode), by setting the code type to a specified, predetermined code type, it is possible to determine whether or not output restriction is necessary depending on the judgment result of the reading distance judgment process, etc. On the other hand, for an information code of a code type that is not easily photographed by mistake (for example, a Code128 barcode), by not setting the code type to a specified, predetermined code type, it is possible to control so as not to restrict output without considering the judgment result of the reading distance judgment process, etc.

[0153] Furthermore, the predetermined distance serving as a criterion for the reading distance and the specified value serving as a criterion for the relative movement state may be changed for each code type.

[0154] The characteristic configurations of the present embodiment and each of the modified examples described above can also be applied to other embodiments.

[0155] [Fifth embodiment] Next, an information code reading system according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The fifth embodiment differs from the fourth embodiment in that the output is limited according to the reading area in the portable mode. Therefore, the same components as those in the fourth embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and the description thereof is omitted.

[0156] As in the fourth embodiment, the reading device 10 according to this embodiment employs a function related to output restriction of the reading result by the reading process as a predetermined function that differs between the placed mode and the portable mode, and output restriction is not performed in the placed mode. On the other hand, in the portable mode of this embodiment, output restriction is not performed on the reading result of the information code determined to be within the reading area E2 in the captured image when reading is successful, and output restriction is performed on the reading result of the information code determined not to be within the reading area E2.

[0157] In particular, in this embodiment, as illustrated in Fig. 40, the reading area E2 is set to be adjacent to the shielded area Ps, which is a portion of the rubber tip 16 that occupies in the captured image P, based on the shielded area Ps. For convenience, the reading area E2 is illustrated in Fig. 40 by a rectangular dashed frame.

[0158] Specifically, the control unit 40 performs a reading area setting process to determine the area occupied by the rubber tip 16 extracted from a captured image of a blank sheet of paper or the like at a predetermined timing (e.g., when the power is first turned on) as the blocked area Ps. An imaging situation is created in which the contrast between the black rubber tip 16 and the background of the blank sheet of paper or the like is emphasized, and the blocked area Ps can be determined by setting the part of the captured image with the strongest luminance gradient in the vertical direction as the lower edge of the blocked area Ps. The reading area E2 is set based on the blocked area Ps determined as described above, and information regarding this reading area E2 is stored in the memory 35 functioning as a storage unit.

[0159] Since the reading area E2 is set from an actually captured image, even if the shielding area Ps varies from device to device due to variance during device manufacturing, the reading area E2 is set to suit the device. This improves the ease of reading in portable mode based on the rubber tip 16. The control unit 40 that performs the above-mentioned reading area setting process can be an example of a "setting unit" that sets the reading area E2 as a "predetermined range."

[0160] Due to such output restriction in the portable mode, the position of the information code captured by bringing the rubber tip 16 closer in the captured image is within the reading area E2. Therefore, in the portable mode, the reading result of the information code captured by bringing the rubber tip 16 closer is output, and the output restriction is applied to the reading result of the information code captured unintentionally because it was not brought closer to the rubber tip 16, so it is possible to prevent unnecessary reading results from being output.

[0161] In this embodiment, the reading area E2 is set to be a specified distance away from the lower edge of the shielding region Ps, but this specified distance can be changed as appropriate. For example, by increasing the specified distance and setting the reading area E2 to be wider, rough reading operations can be permitted.

[0162] The reading process performed by the control unit 40 in this embodiment will be described in detail below with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. When the control unit 40 starts the reading process, a process is performed to decode the information code imaged through the reading port 14 (S201 in FIG. 41). If this decoding process is successful (Yes in S202) and the switching code SP1 has not been decoded (No in S203), the mode is switched to the portable mode (S204).

[0163] Next, a code outline acquisition process is performed in step S205. In this process, image processing is performed to acquire the area of ​​the captured image occupied by the successfully decoded information code as the code outline.

[0164] When the code outline is acquired as described above, in the judgment process of step S206, it is judged whether or not the code outline is within the reading area E2 by using information about the reading area E2 stored in the memory 35. Here, if it is judged that it is within the reading area E2 because touch reading is performed in the portable mode (Yes in S206), the reading result output process of step S209 is performed. In this process, the reading result of the information code judged to be within the reading area E2 is output to the POS terminal 50 via the communication interface 48 without output restriction. Note that the control unit 40 that performs the processes (reading range judgment process) of the above-mentioned steps S205 and S206 may correspond to one example of a "reading range judgment unit."

[0165] On the other hand, if it is determined that the acquired code outline is not within the reading area E2 (No in S206), the information code reading result is discarded without being output (S210).

[0166] Furthermore, if the switching code SP1 is decoded (Yes in S203), the mode is switched to the placement mode (S207), and if an information code other than the switching code SP1 is read (Yes in S208), the reading result is output to the POS terminal 50 (S209).

[0167] For example, for the read area E2 set as described above, the barcode from which the code outline is acquired can be determined to be within the read area E2 as shown in Fig. 42(A), and the barcode from which the code outline is acquired can be determined to be outside the read area E2 as shown in Fig. 42(B). That is, if all the bars are even partially within the read area E2, the barcode is determined to be within the read area E2, and if some of the bars are not within the read area E2, the barcode is determined to be outside the read area E2.

[0168] As a first modified example of this embodiment, in the portable mode, the output restriction may not be performed on the read result of the information code of a predetermined code type, regardless of the judgment result of the read range judgment process. Specifically, as shown in the flowchart in Fig. 43, after switching to the portable mode (S204), if the code type of the information code is the specified predetermined code type (Yes in S211), the above-mentioned process from step S205 onwards is performed, and if it is not the specified predetermined code type (No in S211), the read result is output (S209).

[0169] As a result, for an information code of a code type that is easily photographed by mistake (e.g., a barcode of a JAN code), the code type is set to a specified predetermined code type, and it is possible to determine whether or not output restriction is necessary depending on the judgment result of the reading range judgment process, etc. On the other hand, for an information code of a code type that is not easily photographed by mistake (e.g., a barcode of Code128), the code type is not set to a specified predetermined code type, and it is possible to control so that output restriction is not imposed without considering the judgment result of the reading range judgment process, etc. Also, for example, by not setting the code type of a two-dimensional code to a specified predetermined code type, it is possible to control so that output restriction is not imposed on the reading result of the two-dimensional code. Note that the reading area E2 may be changed for each code type.

[0170] As a second variant of this embodiment, the protective portion 15 of the reading device 10 is formed so that two extension pieces 15a, 15b extend opposite each other through the reading port 14, and these two extension pieces 15a, 15b may be formed so that their respective extension ends are imaged as tips through the reading port 14.

[0171] In such a configuration, the reading area E2 may be set to be between the shielding area Psa corresponding to the extended end of one extension piece 15a and the shielding area Psb corresponding to the extended end of the other extension piece 15b, as illustrated in Figure 44(A).

[0172] This allows the user to operate the device while viewing the information code so that the information code is positioned between the extended end of one extension piece 15a and the extended end of the other extension piece 15b, and the information code is not hidden by the protective part, improving the ease of reading in portable mode.

[0173] In addition, the reading area E2 may be set to be at an intermediate position a predetermined distance away from both the shielding area Psa corresponding to the extended end of one extension piece 15a and the shielding area Psb corresponding to the extended end of the other extension piece 15b, as illustrated in Figure 44 (B).

[0174] This makes it possible to output the reading result of the central information code toward which the reading port 14 is directed, even if reading results are obtained from multiple information codes imaged between the extended end of one extension piece 15a and the extended end of the other extension piece 15b.

[0175] As a third variant of this embodiment, in the portable mode, when there are multiple reading results of information codes that are determined to be within the reading area E2 by the reading range determination process, the reading result of the information code closest to a predetermined priority reading position may be output.

[0176] In this modification, the priority reading position is set to be located approximately in the center of the boundary line between the reading area E2 and the shielded area Ps, as indicated by the symbol Pp in Fig. 45. As illustrated in Fig. 45, when reading results are obtained for each of the barcodes B1 and B2 determined to be within the reading area E2, the reading result of the barcode B1 that is closest to the priority reading position Pp (the Euclidean distance Lc between the priority reading position Pp and the center position of the barcode is the smallest) is output.

[0177] As a result, by performing a reading operation while taking into consideration the priority reading position Pp, even if multiple information codes, including the information code to be read, are imaged approaching the rubber tip 16, it is possible to output only the reading result of the information code to be read.

[0178] [Sixth embodiment] Next, an information code reading system according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The sixth embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that a time period is set in which the area of ​​the captured image occupied by the information code as the specific pattern captured in the placed state is not read. Therefore, the same reference numerals are used for the components substantially the same as those in the first embodiment, and the description thereof is omitted.

[0179] In the mode switching process performed by the control unit 40 of the reading device 10 according to this embodiment, a time period is set in which the area in the captured image occupied by the switching code SP1 as a specific pattern captured in the placed state (hereinafter also referred to as the switching code area) is not read. In the example of Fig. 13, for example, the switching code area may be set to a rectangular area occupied only by the switching code SP1, or may be set to a rectangular area consisting of the switching code SP1 and a margin of a predetermined width.

[0180] Hereinafter, the mode switching process performed by the control unit 40 in this embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart shown in Fig. 46. Note that in the following explanation, the mode switching process performed during the reading process is specifically explained, and a detailed explanation of whether or not the reading result is output is omitted.

[0181] When the mode switching process is started by the control unit 40, a process is performed to decode the information code imaged through the reading port 14 (S301 in FIG. 46), and if this decoding process is successful (Yes in S302) and the switching code SP1 has not been decoded (No in S303), the mode is switched to the portable mode (S304). On the other hand, if the mode switching information has been decoded from the switching code SP1 (Yes in S303), it is determined that the specific imaging state is present, and the mode is switched to the placed mode (S305).

[0182] When the mode is switched to either the portable mode or the placed mode, a timer is set to set a time period for excluding the switching code area from the reading target (S306). If the time measured by this timer has not elapsed a certain time (e.g., 10 seconds) (No in S307), and the mode is the placed mode (Yes in S308), a reading area limiting process shown in step S309 is performed. In this process, the switching code area in the captured image is set to be excluded from the reading target and a decoding process is performed. On the other hand, if the time measured by the timer has not elapsed a certain time (No in S307) and the mode is the portable mode (No in S308), the switching code area is not set to be excluded from the reading target and a decoding process is performed. In other words, before the certain time has elapsed, the reading area E2 in the placed mode is narrower than the reading area E2 in the portable mode by the switching code area.

[0183] Then, if the normal information code is successfully decoded (Yes in S310) before the time counted by the timer has elapsed for a certain period of time (No in S307), the timer is reset (S311) and the time counted by the timer is cleared. Therefore, when information codes are continuously read, in the placed mode, the state in which the switching code area is set as not to be read is maintained. On the other hand, in the portable mode, even when information codes are continuously read, the state in which the switching code area is not set as not to be read is maintained.

[0184] Thereafter, if the decoding is not successful (No in S310) and a certain period of time has elapsed since the time counted by the timer (Yes in S307), the time counted by the timer is cleared (S312), and the process is repeated from the above decoding process (S301).

[0185] As described above, in the information code reading system 1 of this embodiment, when the area in the captured image occupied by the switching code SP1 captured in the placed state is regarded as the switching code area, in the mode switching process, the mode switching information is read by the decoding process (reading process by the reading processing unit) to determine a specific imaging state, and after the mode is switched by the mode switching process, the decoding process (reading process) is performed excluding the switching code area until a certain time measured by the timer has elapsed.

[0186] As a result, immediately after the mode is switched, reading of the normal information code that should be read can be given priority over the switching code SP1 until a certain period of time has elapsed, thereby improving the reading speed for reading the normal information code.

[0187] Furthermore, in the mode switching process, a specific imaging state is determined by reading mode switching information through a decoding process (reading process by the reading processing unit), and when in the placement mode (Yes in S308), an information code recording information different from the mode switching information is read (Yes in S310), the timer is reset (S311), and the decoding process (reading process) is performed excluding the switching code area until a certain period of time has elapsed as measured by the reset timer.

[0188] As a result, when an information code recording information different from the mode switching information, i.e., a normal information code that should be read, is being read continuously, the reading of the normal information code can be given priority over the switching code SP1, thereby improving the reading speed for reading the normal information code.

[0189] [Seventh embodiment] Next, an information code reading system according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The seventh embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that function change information for changing the function of the reading process in the placement mode is recorded in the information code as a specific pattern together with the mode switching information. Therefore, the same reference numerals are used for the components substantially the same as those in the first embodiment, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0190] In a system in which the reading device 10 is placed on a stand 100 of various shapes, it may be desirable to change the function of the reading process in the placement mode according to the shape of the stand 100. For example, it is desirable to change the reading distance (reading depth) at which the reading result is output between a stand in which the reading port 14 and the guide unit 140 are relatively close as shown in Fig. 47(A) and a stand in which the reading port 14 and the guide unit 140 are relatively far as shown in Fig. 47(B). If the reading distance in the placement mode is within a certain range, the reading distance based on the guide unit 140 will change between the stand shown in Fig. 47(A) and the stand shown in Fig. 47(B), which may lead to a decrease in the reading operability.

[0191] For this reason, in this embodiment, function change information for changing the function of the reading process in the placing mode is recorded in the switching code SP1 together with the mode switching information, and in the mode switching process performed by the control unit 40, the function of the reading process is changed according to the function change information read together with the mode switching information when switching to the placing mode. In the example of Fig. 47(A), by recording function change information for relatively shortening the reading distance in the switching code SP1, the function of the reading process in the placing mode can be changed to suit the placing table. In the example of Fig. 47(B), by recording function change information for relatively lengthening the reading distance in the switching code SP1, the function of the reading process in the placing mode can be changed to suit the placing table.

[0192] In this manner, in this embodiment, by setting function change information so as to change the function of the reading process to one suited to the shape of the stand, etc., it is possible to change the function of the reading process in the placement mode according to the shape of the stand, etc. Note that the function of the reading process changed according to the function change information is not limited to the reading distance, and other functions, for example, the range of the reading area E2, may also be adopted.

[0193] [Eighth embodiment] Next, an information code reading system according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The eighth embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the reading area is changed according to the position of a specific pattern in a captured image in the placement mode. Therefore, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and the description thereof is omitted.

[0194] Since a specific pattern such as a switching code is arranged on a part of the frame for forming the opening 141 of the guide section 140, such as a part of the inner surface 143a of the lower edge section 143 of the guide section 140, in the placed state, a part of the frame is imaged together with the specific pattern. In the imaging area where this part of the frame is imaged (hereinafter also referred to as the frame imaging area), no information code other than the specific pattern is imaged. Therefore, in the placed mode in the placed state where the sheet is not misaligned, the frame imaging area is temporarily set outside the reading area as described above, thereby making it possible to improve the reading speed of normal information codes.

[0195] However, if the reading device 10 is placed misaligned with respect to the stand 100, the reading port 14 and the guide portion 140 will also be misaligned, which poses a problem that the frame imaging area will also be misaligned.

[0196] For this reason, in the reading device 10 according to this embodiment, the reading area is set by utilizing the fact that the position of a specific pattern such as a switching code in a captured image changes depending on the placement deviation of the reading device 10 relative to the placement stand 100. Specifically, the reading area is changed depending on the position of the specific pattern in a captured image in a reading area setting process performed by the control unit 40 in the placement mode. Note that the control unit 40 that performs the above-mentioned reading area setting process can correspond to an example of a "reading area setting unit."

[0197] For example, assume that the switching code SP3 is adopted as the specific pattern, and since there is no displacement in placement, the position of the switching code SP3 in the captured image P becomes the specified position as shown in Fig. 48(A), and the reading area E2 is set to exclude the shielded area Ps and the frame body captured area Pf. In this embodiment, the reading area E2 is set so that its lower edge is a distance X from the center position of the switching code SP3 in the specified position.

[0198] If the reading area E2 is not changed from the above setting, and the switching code SP3 is imaged shifted upward from the specified position due to misalignment as shown in Fig. 48(B), a part of the frame body imaged area Pf will be included in the reading area E2. In this case, even a part of the frame body imaged area Pf will be unnecessarily subject to the reading process. In Fig. 48(B), the outline of the switching code SP3 at the specified position is shown by a two-dot chain line.

[0199] For this reason, in this embodiment, in the reading area setting process performed by the control unit 40 in the placement mode, the reading area E2 is changed according to the position of a specific pattern in the captured image, as shown in Figure 48 (C), so that the frame body imaging area Pf does not become the target of the reading process, and the reading speed of normal information codes can be improved.

[0200] In this way, even if the reading device 10 is placed misaligned relative to the stand 100, the reading area E2 can be changed to match the placement misalignment determined from the position of a specific pattern in the captured image, thereby suppressing the effect of the above-mentioned placement misalignment on the reading process of the reading device 10.

[0201] As a modification of this embodiment, the reading device 10 may notify the user of the placement deviation when the position of the specific pattern in the captured image is deviated from the specified position in the placement mode. Specifically, the reading device 10 may notify the user of the placement deviation by using, for example, a predetermined light emission state by the light emission unit 43, a predetermined sound notification state by the sound notification unit 44, or a predetermined vibration state by the vibrator 45. The reading device 10 may also notify the user of the placement deviation by sending a notification to an external device such as the POS terminal 50 via the communication interface 48. The light emission unit 43, the sound notification unit 44, the vibrator 45, and the communication interface 48 may correspond to an example of a "placement deviation notification unit" that notifies the user of the placement deviation.

[0202] As a result, if the reading device 10 is placed out of alignment with the stand 100, the position of the specific pattern in the captured image will shift from the specified position, and the above-mentioned notification will be issued, so that the user who receives the notification can be urged to reset the position.

[0203] [Ninth embodiment] Next, an information code reading system according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The ninth embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the error correction function of the switching code is used to notify the deterioration of the switching code. Therefore, the same reference numerals are used for the components substantially the same as those of the first embodiment, and the description thereof is omitted.

[0204] In this embodiment, a two-dimensional code in which mode switching information is recorded so as to have an error correction function, specifically, a switching code SP3 consisting of the above-mentioned rMQR code, is used as the specific pattern to be placed on one side of the stand.

[0205] Even if a two-dimensional code with an error correction function is slightly deteriorated to the extent that errors can be corrected, the information recorded in the two-dimensional code (such as information for mode switching) can be correctly read by using the error correction function. For example, even if the deterioration is not very advanced, such as in the case of a deterioration state due to dirt adhesion as illustrated in FIG. 49(A), a deterioration state due to label peeling as illustrated in FIG. 49(B), or a deterioration state due to fading of printing as illustrated in FIG. 49(C), the recorded information can be correctly read by using the error correction function. On the other hand, the more the deterioration of the two-dimensional code progresses, the more errors are corrected during error correction, and if the deterioration of the two-dimensional code progresses further, reading will fail.

[0206] Therefore, the reading device 10 in this embodiment notifies the deterioration of the switching code SP3 when the number of error corrections reaches a certain number during the reading process in which the mode switching information is read. Specifically, for example, the deterioration of the switching code SP3 can be notified by using a predetermined light emitting state by the light emitting unit 43, a predetermined sounding state by the sounding unit 44, or a predetermined vibration state by the vibrator 45. In addition, by notifying an external device such as the POS terminal 50 via the communication interface 48, the deterioration of the switching code SP3 can be notified by the external device. The light emitting unit 43, the sounding unit 44, the vibrator 45, and the communication interface 48 may correspond to an example of a "deterioration notifying unit" that notifies the deterioration of the switching code SP3.

[0207] As a result, when the number of error corrections reaches a certain number due to deterioration of the switching code SP3 over time or the like, the above-mentioned notification is made by the light-emitting unit 43 or the like, and the user who receives the notification can be prompted to clean or replace the stand 100, etc.

[0208] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and modifications, and may be embodied as follows, for example. (1) Each of the stands 100, 200, 200a, 200b, etc. may be provided not only with a placement area on which the reading device 10 is placed when switching to the placement mode, but also with a separate placement area on which the reading device 10 can be temporarily placed flat while maintaining the portable mode.

[0209] (2) The information code reading device of the present invention is not limited to being formed in a curved shape like the above-mentioned reading device 10, but may be formed, for example, so that the reading portion 12 and the gripping portion 13 are connected in an approximately flat plate shape.

[0210] 1,1a Information code reading system 10 Reading device (information code reading device) 11. Cabinet 14 Reading port 15 Protection part 16 Rubber tip (tip) 23 Light receiving sensor (imaging section) 40 control unit (read processing unit, mode switching unit, reading distance determination unit, relative movement determination unit, setting unit, reading range determination unit) 100,200,200a,200b stand 140 Guide Department 141 Aperture 143a Inner surface (one side of the stand) 210,210a 1st support part 214 Aperture 220,220a 2nd support part 230, 230a One end (specific pattern) Ps shielding area SP1 Switching code (specific pattern) SP2 Identification display (specific pattern) SP3 Switching code (specific pattern) SP4 Specific shape (specific pattern)

Claims

1. A portable information code reader that performs a reading process to optically read an information code; a stand on which the information code reader can be placed; An information code reading system comprising: The information code reader includes: a predetermined function is different between a placed mode for performing the reading process in a placed state in which the device is placed on the stand and a portable mode for performing the reading process in a carried state, a housing in which a reading port is formed; an imaging unit that images the information code through the reading port; a reading processing unit that performs the reading process on the information code imaged by the imaging unit; a mode switching unit that switches to the placed mode when it is determined that the specific image capturing state is one in which a specific pattern is captured by the imaging unit, and switches to the portable mode when it is not determined that the specific image capturing state is one in which the specific pattern is captured by the imaging unit; Equipped with The specific pattern is arranged so as to be imaged by the imaging section in the placed state.

2. 2. The information code reading system according to claim 1, wherein the specific pattern is arranged on one surface of the stand that is imaged by the imaging unit in the placed state.

3. 2. The information code reading system according to claim 1, wherein the specific pattern is an information code in which mode switching information is recorded.

4. 3. The information code reading system according to claim 2, wherein the specific pattern is a specific shape formed on one surface of the table.

5. the information code reading device includes a storage unit in which position specifying information capable of specifying a position of the specific pattern in the captured image in the placed state is stored in advance, 2. The information code reading system according to claim 1, wherein the mode switching unit determines whether or not the specific image capturing state is established by utilizing the position specifying information stored in the storage unit.

6. The housing is provided with a protection portion that protects the reading port, the protection section is formed so that a tip section thereof is imaged by the imaging section, the placement stand is formed so that one end portion is imaged by the imaging unit in a state in which at least a part of the tip portion is hidden when the placement stand is in the placement state, 2. The information code reading system according to claim 1, wherein the specific pattern is the one end portion imaged by the imaging section in the placed state.

7. 7. The information code reading system according to claim 6, wherein the mounting base is provided with a support portion that supports an inner surface of the protection portion from below without being included in an imaging area of ​​the imaging portion when the protection portion is in the mounted state.

8. The inner surface of the protective portion is formed in a curved concave shape, 8. The information code reading system according to claim 7, wherein the support portion has an upper surface that supports the inner surface of the protection portion and is formed in a curved convex shape so as to fit along the inner surface.

9. 7. The information code reading system according to claim 6, wherein the mounting base is configured to be attached to the tip portion when in the mounted state.

10. The information code reader includes an alarm unit, The information code reading system described in claim 1, characterized in that the specified function is a function related to an alarm sound by the alarm unit in response to the reading result of the reading process, and the alarm sound by the alarm unit in the storage mode is different from the alarm sound by the alarm unit in the portable mode.

11. the information code reading device includes an illumination unit capable of irradiating an imaging area of ​​the imaging unit with illumination light; 2. The information code reading system according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined function is a function related to the irradiation of the illumination light by the illumination unit, and the brightness of the illumination light irradiated from the illumination unit in the portable mode is made darker than the brightness of the illumination light irradiated from the illumination unit in the placed mode.

12. the information code reader includes a marker light emitting unit capable of emitting marker light indicating a reading range by the reading processing unit, The information code reading system according to claim 1, characterized in that the specified function is a function related to the irradiation of the marker light by the marker light irradiating unit, which irradiates the marker light from the marker light irradiating unit in the placed mode and stops irradiating the marker light in the portable mode.

13. the information code reader includes a display unit capable of displaying predetermined information, 2. The information code reading system according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined function is a function related to the display by the display unit, and the display by the display unit in the placed mode is different from the display by the display unit in the portable mode.

14. the information code reader includes a read distance determination unit that determines whether a read distance from the information code, the read result of which is obtained by the read processing unit, to the read port is equal to or greater than a predetermined distance; The predetermined function is a function related to an output restriction of the reading result by the reading process, In the placement mode, the output limitation is not performed, The information code reading system according to claim 1, characterized in that, in the portable mode, the output restriction is not imposed on the reading result of an information code for which the reading distance determination unit determines that the reading distance is not greater than or equal to the specified distance, and the output restriction is imposed on the reading result of an information code for which the reading distance determination unit determines that the reading distance is greater than or equal to the specified distance.

15. The information code reading system according to claim 14, characterized in that the reading distance determination unit determines whether the reading distance is equal to or greater than the predetermined distance based on the size of cells constituting the information code in an image obtained by capturing the information code.

16. the information code reader includes a relative movement determination unit that determines whether or not an information code read by the reading processing unit is in a relative movement state that is considered to be moving relative to the reading port, The information code reading system according to claim 14, characterized in that in the portable mode, the output restriction is not imposed on the reading result of an information code that is not determined to be in the relative movement state by the relative movement determination unit, regardless of the judgment result of the reading distance determination unit.

17. The information code reading system according to claim 16, characterized in that the relative movement determination unit determines whether or not the relative movement state is occurring based on the amount of change between the position of the information code in an image captured a predetermined time ago and the position of the information code in an image captured a predetermined time ago.

18. 15. The information code reading system according to claim 14, wherein in the portable mode, the output restriction is not imposed on the read result of the information code of a predetermined code type regardless of the determination result of the read distance determination unit.

19. The housing is provided with a protection portion that protects the reading port, the protection section is formed so that a tip section thereof is imaged by the imaging section, the information code reading device includes a read range determination unit that determines whether a position of the information code, the read result of which is obtained by the read processing unit, in a captured image is within a predetermined range; The predetermined function is a function related to an output restriction of the reading result by the reading process, In the placement mode, the output limitation is not performed, In the portable mode, the output restriction is not imposed on the read result of the information code that is determined by the read range determination unit to be within the predetermined range, and the output restriction is imposed on the read result of the information code that is determined by the read range determination unit to be not within the predetermined range, 2. The information code reading system according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined range is set so as to be adjacent to a shielded area that the tip portion occupies in the captured image as a reference.

20. 20. The information code reading system according to claim 19, wherein the tip portion is formed so that the blocking area is along one edge of the captured image.

21. The protection portion is formed by two extension pieces extending to face each other across the reading opening, The two extension pieces are formed such that the respective extension end portions are imaged by the imaging unit as the tip portions, 20. The information code reading system according to claim 19, wherein the predetermined range is set to be between the shielding area corresponding to one of the extension ends and the shielding area corresponding to the other extension end.

22. The information code reader includes: a setting unit that sets the predetermined range by determining, as the shielded area, an area occupied by the tip portion, which is extracted from an image captured by the imaging unit at a predetermined timing; a storage unit that stores information about the predetermined range set by the setting unit; Equipped with 20. The information code reading system according to claim 19, wherein the read range determining unit makes the determination by using information about the predetermined range stored in the storage unit.

23. 20. The information code reading system according to claim 19, wherein in the portable mode, the output restriction is not imposed on the read result of the information code of a predetermined code type regardless of the determination result of the read range determination unit.

24. The information code reading system according to claim 19, characterized in that in the portable mode, when there are a plurality of information code reading results determined by the reading range determination unit to be within the predetermined range, the reading result of the information code closest to a preset priority reading position is output.

25. The specific pattern is an information code in which mode switching information is recorded, and is arranged on one surface of the stand; When the area of ​​the captured image occupied by the information code captured in the placed state is defined as a switching code area, The mode switching unit determines the specific image capturing state by reading the mode switching information through the reading process by the reading processing unit, 2. The information code reading system according to claim 1, wherein the reading processing section performs the reading process excluding the switching code area until a certain time has elapsed after the mode switching section switches the mode.

26. The specific pattern is an information code in which mode switching information is recorded, and is arranged on one surface of the stand; When the area of ​​the captured image occupied by the information code captured in the placed state is defined as a switching code area, The mode switching unit determines the specific image capturing state by reading the mode switching information through the reading process by the reading processing unit, The information code reading system according to claim 1, characterized in that when an information code recording information different from the mode switching information is read by the reading processing unit during the placement mode, the reading processing unit performs the reading process excluding the switching code area until a certain time has elapsed.

27. 2. The information code reading system according to claim 1, wherein the specific pattern is an information code in which function change information for changing a function of the reading process in the storage mode is recorded together with the mode switching information.

28. The specific pattern is disposed on one surface of the stand, the information code reading device includes a reading area setting unit that sets a reading area to be subjected to the reading process within an imaging area of ​​the imaging unit, 2. The information code reading system according to claim 1, wherein the reading area setting section changes the reading area in accordance with a position of the specific pattern in the captured image in the placement mode.

29. The specific pattern is disposed on one surface of the stand, The information code reading system according to claim 1, characterized in that the information code reading device includes a placement deviation notification unit that notifies the user of the placement deviation when the position of the specific pattern in the captured image deviates from a specified position in the placement mode.

30. The specific pattern is an information code in which mode switching information is recorded so as to have an error correction function, and is arranged on one surface of the stand; The information code reading system according to claim 1, characterized in that the information code reading device is provided with a deterioration notification unit that issues a notification regarding deterioration of the information code when the number of error corrections during the reading process in which the mode switching information is read by the reading processing unit reaches a certain number or more.

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