Composite information code, composite information code manufacturing method, composite information code registration method, composite information code reader, and composite information code reading method

Abstract

In a composite UID (10), since a random pattern (16) formed together with a QR code (14) is irregular, if an attempt is made to forge the composite UID (10), it is difficult to form the random pattern (16) to be exactly the same as that on the genuine composite UID (10), and thus the composite UID (10) of the present embodiment is difficult to forge. Furthermore, if a comparison based on feature quantities of the random pattern (16) formed on the composite UID (10) is successful, information read from the QR code (14) or information indicating that the code is legitimate is displayed, and if the comparison based on the feature quantities of the random pattern (16) formed on the composite UID (10) fails, the composite UID (10) is deemed to be a forgery, and registration information read from the QR code (14) is not displayed.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is based on and claims priority from Patent Application No. 2021-093218, filed June 2, 2021, and Patent Application No. 2022-013692, filed January 31, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. [Technical field]

[0002] The present invention relates to a composite information code, a method for manufacturing a composite information code, a method for registering a composite information code, a composite information code reader, and a method for reading a composite information code. [Background technology]

[0003] In recent years, information codes such as QR Code (registered trademark) have come into widespread use.

[0004] While QR codes are highly convenient, they can also be easily copied and counterfeited. In addition, because QR codes have a high degree of restoration ability against defects and dirt due to the correction function of the reading device, even low-quality counterfeits may be read in the same way as genuine ones. Therefore, technology is being developed to prevent counterfeiting of information codes and fraudulent activities.

[0005] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a counterfeit detection system in which a label with a unique random pattern and an RFID tag storing first fixed-length code data formed by applying a digital signature to digital image data obtained by photographing the label are affixed to a product.

[0006] This counterfeit detection system transmits digital image data captured by the camera unit of the mobile terminal and first fixed-length code data read by the RFID reader to a server to request verification of counterfeit products, and displays the verification result provided by the server in response to the request on the display unit. In response to the verification request from the mobile terminal, the server applies the digital signature to the digital image data received from the mobile terminal to generate second fixed-length code data, determines whether the second fixed-length code data matches the first fixed-length code data received from the mobile terminal, and provides the result to the mobile terminal. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] JP 2007-272283 A Summary of the Invention

[0008] In the counterfeit detection system of Patent Document 1, a label on which a unique random pattern is formed and an RFID tag in which the first fixed-length code data is stored must be attached to a product, and the configuration is not simple.

[0009] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a composite information code that is more difficult to counterfeit, a manufacturing method for a composite information code, a registration method for a composite information code, a composite information code reader, and a method for reading a composite information code.

[0010] The following technical means are adopted in the aspects of the present disclosure. The reference characters in parentheses in the claims are merely examples showing the corresponding relationship with the specific means described in the embodiments described below as one aspect, and are not intended to limit the technical scope of the present invention.

[0011] A composite information code according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises an information code formed within a specified code area, and an irregular pattern formed at least either outside the code area or within the code area, and when matching based on features of the irregular pattern is successful, at least one of information read from the information code and information indicating that it is a legitimate code is displayed.

[0012] According to this configuration, since the pattern formed at least either outside the code area or inside the code area is irregular, even if an attempt is made to forge a composite information code, it is difficult to form this pattern exactly the same as the genuine composite information code. If the matching based on the feature amount of the irregular pattern formed in the composite information code is successful, at least one of the information read from the information code and information indicating that the code is genuine is displayed. On the other hand, if the matching based on the feature amount of the irregular pattern formed in the composite information code is unsuccessful, the composite information code is deemed to be forged, and the information read from the information code is not displayed, and a message indicating that matching has failed is displayed. Thus, with the composite information code of this configuration, even if the information code is forged, since the irregular pattern is difficult to forge, the composite information code as a whole is difficult to forge.

[0013] A manufacturing method for a composite information code according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a manufacturing method for a composite information code including an information code formed within a predetermined code area, and includes an irregular pattern forming process for forming an irregular pattern at least either outside the code area or within the code area for verifying the authenticity of the composite information code, and an information code forming process for forming the information code within the code area.

[0014] A method for registering a composite information code according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first step of generating a composite information code including an information code formed within a specified code area and an irregular pattern formed at least either outside the code area or within the code area, and a second step of associating features of the information code and the irregular pattern and storing them in a server.

[0015] A composite information code reading device of one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a reading unit that reads a composite information code including an information code formed within a specified code area and an irregular pattern formed at least either outside the code area or within the code area, an extraction unit that extracts features of the irregular pattern read by the reading unit, a matching unit that performs a match based on the features extracted by the extraction unit, and a control unit that controls a display unit to display at least one of information read from the information code and information indicating that it is a legitimate code when matching by the matching unit is successful.

[0016] A method for reading a composite information code according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first step of reading a composite information code including an information code formed within a specified code area and an irregular pattern formed at least either outside the code area or within the code area, a second step of extracting features of the irregular pattern read in the first step, a third step of performing a comparison based on the features extracted in the second step, and a fourth step of controlling a display unit to display at least one of information read from the information code and information indicating that the code is a legitimate code if the comparison in the third step is successful.

[0017] A composite information code reading device according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a device for reading a composite information code having an information code formed within a predetermined code area, an irregular pattern formed at least either outside the code area or within the code area, and a plurality of finder patterns, at least one of which is arranged outside the code area. The composite information code reading device includes a reading unit, a distortion correction unit that corrects image distortion occurring during reading based on the finder pattern read by the reading unit, and an extraction unit that extracts a feature amount of the irregular pattern from the image corrected by the distortion correction unit.

[0018] A composite information code reading device according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a device for reading a composite information code having an information code formed within a predetermined code area, an irregular pattern formed at least either outside the code area or within the code area, and a plurality of finder patterns, at least one of which is arranged outside the code area. The composite information code reading device includes a reading unit, an area specifying unit that specifies an area formed by the plurality of finder patterns, and an extraction unit that extracts a feature amount of the irregular pattern from an image within the area specified by the area specifying unit.

[0019] A composite information code of one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises an information code formed within a specified code area, an irregular pattern formed at least either outside the code area or within the code area, and a plurality of finder patterns, at least one of which is positioned outside the code area, and is configured such that image distortion occurring during reading is corrected based on the finder pattern, and features of the irregular pattern are extracted based on the corrected image.

[0020] A composite information code of one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises an information code formed within a specified code area, an irregular pattern formed at least either outside the code area or within the code area, and a plurality of finder patterns, at least one of which is positioned outside the code area, and is configured such that features of the irregular pattern are extracted from an area formed by the plurality of finder patterns.

[0021] A method for manufacturing a composite information code according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a method for manufacturing a composite information code including an information code formed within a predetermined code area, and includes an irregular pattern forming process for forming an irregular pattern at least either outside the code area or within the code area, and an information code forming process for forming the information code within the code area and forming a finder pattern outside the code area.

[0022] A method for reading a composite information code according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first step of reading a composite information code having an information code formed within a specified code area, an irregular pattern formed at least either outside the code area or within the code area, and a plurality of finder patterns, at least one of which is positioned outside the code area, a second step of correcting image distortion caused during reading based on the finder pattern read in the first step, and a third step of extracting features of the irregular pattern from the image whose distortion has been corrected in the second step.

[0023] A method for reading a composite information code according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first step of reading a composite information code having an information code formed within a specified code area, an irregular pattern formed at least either outside the code area or within the code area, and a plurality of finder patterns, at least one of which is positioned outside the code area, a second step of identifying an area constituted by the plurality of finder patterns, and a third step of extracting features of the irregular pattern from an image within the area identified in the second step. Effect of the Invention

[0024] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to make it more difficult to counterfeit information codes. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0025] The above and other objects, features and advantages of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an external view of a composite UID according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is an external view showing another example of the composite UID of the first embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a flow chart showing the process of manufacturing and registering a composite UID in the first embodiment. [Figure 4A] FIG. 4A is a schematic diagram showing the manufacturing process of the composite UID of the first embodiment. [Figure 4B]FIG. 4B is a schematic diagram showing a manufacturing process of the multiple UID of the first embodiment. [Figure 4C] FIG. 4C is a schematic diagram showing a manufacturing process of the composite UID of the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram showing the functions of the combined UID reader of the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the flow of the composite UID reading process in the first embodiment. [Figure 7A] FIG. 7A is an example of a composite UID according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7B] FIG. 7B is another example of a composite UID according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7C] FIG. 7C is another example of a composite UID according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7D] FIG. 7D is another example of a composite UID according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7E] FIG. 7E is another example of a composite UID according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8A] FIG. 8A is a diagram showing a display state of the combined UID reader when displaying the reading range in the first embodiment. [Figure 8B] FIG. 8B is a diagram showing the display state of the combined UID reader when displaying the reading range in the first embodiment. [Figure 8C] FIG. 8C is a diagram showing the display state of the combined UID reader when displaying the reading range in the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the flow of the composite UID reading process when the reading range is displayed in the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an external view of a composite UID according to the second embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing the steps of manufacturing a composite UID according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a functional block diagram showing the functions of the combined UID reader of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 13A] FIG. 13A is an external view of a composite UID according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 13B] FIG. 13B is an external view showing another example of a composite UID. [Figure 14A] FIG. 14A is a diagram showing an example of a read image in which distortion has occurred. [Figure 14B] FIG. 14B is a diagram showing an example of an original image. [Figure 15A] FIG. 15A is a diagram showing an example of a read image in which distortion has occurred. [Figure 15B] FIG. 15B is a diagram showing an example of an original image. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a functional block diagram showing the functions of the combined UID reader of the fifth embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an area specified based on the finder pattern of the fifth embodiment. [Figure 18A] FIG. 18A is a diagram showing a reading range based on a finder pattern of the fifth embodiment. [Figure 18B] FIG. 18B is a diagram showing the read range of a conventional random pattern. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is an external view showing another example of a composite UID. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0026] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the embodiment described below shows an example of a case where the present invention is implemented, and the present invention is not limited to the specific configuration described below. In implementing the present invention, a specific configuration according to the embodiment may be appropriately adopted.

[0027] (First embodiment) FIG. 1 is an external view of a composite UID (Unique Identifier) ​​10 of this embodiment. The composite UID 10 of this embodiment includes an information code 14 formed in a predetermined code area 12, and irregular patterns (hereinafter referred to as "random patterns") 16A, 16B formed outside the code area 12. In this manner, the composite UID 10 is a composite information code formed by combining the information code 14 and the random patterns 16A, 16B. Note that the code area 12 is shown by a dashed line in FIG. 1, but the dashed line indicating the code area 12 is not formed in the actual composite UID 10. In the following description, when there is no need to distinguish between the random patterns 16A and 16B, they are referred to as the random patterns 16.

[0028] Moreover, as an example, the composite UID 10 of this embodiment is printed one by one on a sticker-like label 18, and the label 18 is affixed to an article. The composite UID 10 may be formed on the label 18 by printing or marking, not limited to printing. Thus, in this embodiment, printing, marking, and imprinting are the same concept, and in the following description, when there is no need to distinguish between printing, marking, and imprinting, they will be collectively referred to as printing.

[0029] The information code 14 of this embodiment is a two-dimensional code formed by a plurality of light color cells and dark color cells, and as an example, is a QR code in which the light color cells are white cells and the dark color cells are black cells. Note that, in addition to the QR code, other two-dimensional codes such as SQRC (registered trademark) and DataMatrix may be used as the information code 14. In the following description, the information code 14 will be described as a QR code 14.

[0030] The random pattern 16 is different for each composite UID 10. For example, random patterns 16A and 16B are provided parallel to two opposing sides of the code area 12. The random pattern 16A is a wavy pattern, and a pattern such as a circle, a square, or a triangle (also called a model pattern) is formed inside the random pattern 16A. For example, the random pattern 16B is a predetermined character string such as a name written continuously. The shape of the random pattern 16 shown in FIG. 1 is an example, and other shapes or character strings may be used as long as they are irregular. The random pattern 16 may be formed in the composite UID 10 in a constant cycle, but it also includes patterns with low reproducibility even if there is a certain regularity.

[0031] In the composite UID 10 of this embodiment, when the QR code 14 is read, a match is performed based on the feature amount of the random pattern 16, and if the match is successful, at least one of the information read from the QR code 14 and information indicating that the code is legitimate is displayed. That is, because the feature amount of the random pattern 16 is different for each label 18, it is difficult to copy (counterfeit) the composite UID 10. That is, the match based on the feature amount of the random pattern 16 determines the authenticity of the composite UID 10.

[0032] The feature amount in this embodiment is, for example, information based on the positions of a predetermined portion of the QR code 14 and the random pattern 16. In the example of FIG. 1, the predetermined portion is the cut-out symbol 14A (also called a finder pattern) of the QR code 14, and the feature amount, which is information based on the position, is the distances a to d between the corners of the cut-out symbol 14A and the random pattern 16A. Note that the feature amount is not limited to each value of the distances a to d. The feature amount is not limited to the distance between two points, such as the distance between one cut-out symbol 14A and one point on the random pattern 16, but may be the distance between one cut-out symbol 14A and multiple points on the random pattern 16 as shown in FIG. 2. The feature amount may also be another value, such as the sum of the distances a to d or the ratio of two predetermined distances among the distances a to d.

[0033] 2, the center or other position may be used as the starting point for calculating the distance (feature amount) from the random pattern 16A, instead of the corner of the cut-out symbol 14A. Furthermore, the starting point for calculating the distance (feature amount) from the random pattern 16A may be the alignment pattern 14B or other patterns (timing patterns, etc.) included in the QR code 14, or a specific cell, instead of the cut-out symbol 14A.

[0034] Also, a unique fixed pattern (hereinafter referred to as "original pattern") 14C to be detected may be included in the QR code 14, and distance calculation may be performed with the original pattern 14C as the starting point. The original pattern 14C shown in Fig. 2 is a rectangle, but may be another shape such as a triangle as long as it is recognizable as the original pattern 14C.

[0035] Furthermore, the information based on the position may be information indicating the positional relationship between the three cut-out symbols 14A included in the QR code 14 and the random pattern 16. The information indicating the positional relationship is, for example, information indicating the position of the cut-out symbol 14A closest to the random pattern 16, information indicating the cut-out symbol 14A furthest from the random pattern 16, or the like.

[0036] Next, a method for manufacturing the composite UID 10 will be described with reference to Figures 3 and 4. Figure 3 is a flow chart showing the steps of manufacturing the composite UID 10, and Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing the steps of manufacturing the composite UID 10.

[0037] First, in step S100, the random pattern 16 is endlessly printed on a long material roll 20 for forming the label 18. Endless printing is a method of printing the random pattern 16 continuously without interruption, as shown in Fig. 4A.

[0038] In the next step S102, die cutting or half cutting is performed to cut out the random pattern 16. Cutting out the random pattern 16 involves making cuts along the shape of the label 18 in the material roll 20 on which the random pattern 16 is printed so that the label 18 can be peeled off from the release paper that serves as the backing. The rectangular dashed line 22 in FIG. 4B indicates the shape to be cut out.

[0039] By varying at least one of the cycle of endless printing in step S100 and the cycle of die cutting in step S102, the random pattern 16 printed on the label 18 will differ for each label 18.

[0040] In the next step S104, a predetermined QR code 14 is printed on each label 18, and a composite UID 10 is formed for each label 18 as shown in FIG. 4C.

[0041] In the next step S106, a camera (not shown) photographs the label 18 on which the composite UID 10 is formed. Note that the photographing with the camera may be performed after the label 18 is attached to the article, or may be performed before the label 18 is attached to the article.

[0042] In the next step S108, a feature of the random pattern 16 is extracted from the image data of the photographed composite UID 10. The feature to be extracted is predetermined, and may be one type of feature or multiple types of feature.

[0043] In the next step S110, the extracted feature amount is registered in association with the information indicated by the QR code 14. This registration refers to storing the feature amount in the storage device 54 included in the server 50 shown in FIG.

[0044] In this manner, the composite UID 10 of this embodiment is manufactured by forming the random pattern 16 for determining the authenticity of the composite UID 10 outside the code area 12, and forming the QR code 14 within the code area 12. The feature amount of the random pattern 16 obtained by reading the composite UID 10 is stored (registered) in the storage device 54 provided in the server 50.

[0045] Furthermore, in the composite UID 10 of this embodiment, for example, the cycle of endless printing can be changed so that the random pattern 16 is a different pattern for each label 18. Furthermore, even if the random pattern 16 of the composite UID 10 of this embodiment can be reproduced on the label 18, it will differ from the genuine composite UID 10 if the printing position or size of the QR code 14 is different. For this reason, even if an attempt is made to forge a composite UID 10 on a label 18 using a manufacturing method similar to that of this embodiment, it is difficult to reproduce the random pattern 16 so that it is identical to the genuine one, and it is difficult to forge an identical composite UID 10 to the genuine one.

[0046] The method of manufacturing the composite UID 10 is not limited to the method described with reference to Figures 3 and 4. For example, the random pattern 16 may be printed after the QR code 14 is printed on the material roll 20. Also, the random pattern 16 and the QR code 14 may be printed after the label 22 is cut out from the material roll 20.

[0047] A fixed pattern may also be printed on the material roll 20. This fixed pattern is, for example, a rectangular pattern printed along the edge of the label 22. This fixed pattern may be used to calculate the feature amount by calculating the distance between the fixed pattern and a predetermined portion of the QR code 14. That is, in this embodiment, the QR code 14, the random pattern 16, and the fixed pattern are printed on the composite UID 10. As an example, the fixed pattern is printed on the material roll 20, and then the QR code 14 and the random pattern 16 are printed, but the printing order is not limited to this.

[0048] Furthermore, the QR code 14 and the random pattern 16 may be printed by on-demand printing using digital data, or the QR code 14 and the random pattern 16 may be printed simultaneously.

[0049] Also, the random pattern 16 or the QR code 14 may be formed by performing a solid printing in black on the material roll 20 and then performing white-out on the solid printing with a laser marker. Also, the random pattern 16 or the QR code 14 may be printed on the material roll 20 by inkjet. Furthermore, instead of being printed on the material roll 20, the composite UID 10 may be printed, for example, on the product itself, a part that forms the product, or a package that contains the product or part.

[0050] As described above, the composite UID 10 of this embodiment is printed on a label 22 as an example, but the object on which the composite UID 10 is printed, the printing method of the QR code 14 and the composite UID 10 contained in the composite UID 10, and the printing order are not particularly limited.

[0051] Next, reading the composite UID 10 will be described.

[0052] 5 is a functional block diagram showing the functions of the composite UID reader 30. The composite UID reader 30 is, for example, a portable information processing device equipped with a camera 32, such as a smartphone or tablet terminal, but is not limited thereto. A device dedicated to reading the composite UID 10, or a reading device incorporated into an existing manufacturing device for manufacturing a product may also be used.

[0053] The composite UID reader 30 includes a camera 32 , a communication unit 34 , a display unit 36 ​​, a memory unit 38 , a reading unit 40 , a feature extraction unit 42 , a matching unit 44 , and a display control unit 46 .

[0054] The communication unit 34 transmits and receives information to and from other information processing devices such as the server 50. The communication unit 34 of this embodiment transmits and receives information to and from the server 50 via a communication unit 52 provided in the server 50. A storage device 54 provided in the server 50 stores registration information corresponding to the QR code 14 formed in the composite UID 10 and features of the random pattern 16.

[0055] The display unit 36 ​​is, for example, a touch panel display, which displays various data and accepts operations.

[0056] The storage unit 38 stores various data such as a program for reading the composite UID 10 and image data acquired by the camera 32.

[0057] The reading unit 40 reads the QR code 14 and the random pattern 16 from the image data of the composite UID 10 captured by the camera 32. The reading unit 40 then performs a decoding process to decode the information recorded in the read QR code 14. In the following description, reading the QR code 14 is also referred to as scanning.

[0058] Here, the QR code 14 includes an alignment pattern 14B to correct distortion that occurs during scanning. Therefore, when the reading unit 40 scans the QR code 14, it performs distortion correction using the alignment pattern 14B. The reading unit 40 also uses the alignment pattern 14B to correct distortion of the scanned QR code 14 and the captured random pattern 16. By correcting the distortion of the QR code 14 and the random pattern 16 in this way, the feature amount of the composite UID 10 can be accurately extracted.

[0059] The feature extraction unit 42 extracts the feature of the random pattern 16 read by the reading unit 40 .

[0060] The collation unit 44 performs collation, which is a determination of authenticity, based on the features extracted by the feature extraction unit 42. Note that the collation by the collation unit 44 is performed by comparison with information stored in the server 50, as described below.

[0061] The display control unit 46 controls the display unit 36 ​​to display the information read from the QR code 14, the information of the matching result, etc., when the matching by the matching unit 44 is successful. On the other hand, when the matching is unsuccessful, the information read from the QR code 14 is not displayed. When the matching is unsuccessful, depending on the situation, a notification may be given that the product is not genuine, or that the determination is impossible due to information loss that exceeds the correction capacity. The functions of the feature extraction unit 42 and the matching unit 44 may be provided in the server 50. In this case, the reading result of the reading unit 40 is transmitted from the composite UID reading device 30 to the server 50, and the matching result by the server 50 is transmitted to the composite UID reading device 30.

[0062] 6 is a flowchart showing the flow of the composite UID reading process executed by the composite UID reading device 30. The composite UID reading process is executed by a program stored in a recording medium such as the storage unit 38 included in the composite UID reading device 30. Note that by executing this program, a method corresponding to the program is performed.

[0063] First, in step S200, the reader 40 scans the QR code 14 by capturing an image of the composite UID 10 with the camera 32. The composite UID reader 30 captures an image of the composite UID 10 with the camera 32 while scanning, and the image data captured by the camera 32 is stored in the storage unit 38. When scanning the QR code 14, the reader 40 also performs distortion correction using the alignment pattern 14B, and also performs distortion correction on the captured random pattern 16.

[0064] In the next step S202, the registration information corresponding to the scanned QR code 14 and the feature amount of the random pattern 16 are obtained from the server 50 via the communication unit .

[0065] In the next step S204, the feature extracting unit 42 extracts the feature of the scanned random pattern 16.

[0066] In this embodiment, image data for extracting features of the random pattern 16 is obtained in conjunction with the scan in step S200, but this is not limited to the above. Images of the composite UID 10 may be captured again between steps S202 and S204 to obtain image data for extracting features of the random pattern 16.

[0067] In the next step S206, the matching unit 44 performs matching based on the extracted features. In this embodiment, the matching is performed by determining whether the features extracted by the feature extraction unit 42 match the features of the random pattern 16 acquired from the server 50.

[0068] In step S208, the collation unit 44 determines whether or not the collation has been successful, and if the determination is affirmative, the process proceeds to step S210, whereas if the determination is negative, the process proceeds to step S212.

[0069] In step S210, the display control unit 46 causes the display unit 36 ​​to display at least one of the registration information corresponding to the scanned QR code 14 and information indicating that the code is legitimate, and then the composite UID reading process ends.

[0070] In step S212, since the comparison has failed, it is determined that the scanned composite UID 10 is forged, and forgery information is stored (registered) in the storage device 54 of the server 50 for the purpose of grasping the forgery situation and considering preventive measures. The forgery information may be registered each time a single forgery is detected, or may be registered by counting the number of forgery attempts and when the count exceeds a preset threshold. The forgery information may be, for example, image data of the composite UID 10 captured by the camera 32, or the QR code 14 or random pattern 16 used to generate the composite UID 10.

[0071] The forgery status is then reported to the user, who can then take measures such as changing the random pattern 16 included in the composite UID 10 that he or she is using, or changing the feature quantity to be extracted.

[0072] In the next step S214, the display control unit 46 causes the display unit 36 ​​to display the fact that the verification has failed and the counterfeit information, and the composite UID reading process ends.

[0073] As described above, the composite UID 10 of this embodiment has an irregular random pattern 16 formed together with the QR code 14, so that even if an attempt is made to forge the composite UID 10, it is difficult to form the random pattern 16 exactly the same as that of the genuine composite UID 10. For this reason, the composite UID 10 of this embodiment is difficult to forge. In particular, even if one QR code 14 is successfully forged, the other QR codes 14 have different random patterns 16, so it is very difficult to forge a large number of them. Then, when the comparison based on the feature amount of the random pattern 16 formed in the composite UID 10 is successful, at least one of the information read from the QR code 14 and information indicating that the code is genuine is displayed. On the other hand, when the comparison based on the feature amount of the random pattern 16 formed in the composite UID 10 is unsuccessful, the composite UID 10 is deemed to be forged, and the registration information read from the QR code 14 is not displayed, and a display indicating that the comparison has failed is displayed.

[0074] In this embodiment, the feature amount of the random pattern 16A is used for matching, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the feature amount of the random pattern 16B may be used for matching. The feature amount of the random pattern 16B is, for example, the distance between the cut-out symbol 14A of the QR code 14 and the random pattern 16B. In addition, both the feature amount of the random pattern 16A and the feature amount of the random pattern 16B may be used for matching.

[0075] The feature of random pattern 16 may be, for example, the number and positions of model patterns 17A (see FIG. 2) such as circles, squares, and triangles included in random pattern 16A, and the positional relationship between model patterns 17A. Furthermore, the number of characters included in random pattern 16B may be the feature. Information based on the positions of random pattern 16A and random pattern 16B may be the feature.

[0076] Furthermore, information based on the positions of the cut-out symbol 14A of the QR code 14 and the model pattern 17A, and information based on the positions of the cut-out symbol 14A and the periphery of the composite UID 10 may be used as the feature amount.

[0077] Furthermore, the random pattern 16A may include a cut-out symbol 17B (see FIG. 2) which is a fixed pattern to be detected, and information based on the positions of the cut-out symbol 17B and a predetermined portion of the QR code 14 may be used as the feature amount. Furthermore, information based on the positions of the cut-out symbol 17 and the model pattern, the waveform of the random pattern 16A, the periphery of the composite UID 10, or the cut-out symbol 14A of the QR code 14 may be used as the feature amount.

[0078] Furthermore, the characteristic amount of the random pattern 16 may include the color of the random pattern 16 .

[0079] In addition, a plurality of features of the random pattern 16 may be registered, and the feature used for the matching determination may be changed periodically or arbitrarily, or new feature may be added.

[0080] Furthermore, information related to the feature amount (such as the starting position for distance calculation and the value of the calculated feature amount) may be embedded in the QR code 14.

[0081] In the present embodiment, two random patterns 16A and 16B are formed on the composite UID 10 as shown in Fig. 7B, but the present invention is not limited to this. Only one random pattern 16 may be formed as shown in Fig. 7A, three random patterns 16 may be formed as shown in Fig. 7C, or four random patterns 16 may be formed. Furthermore, as shown in Figs. 7D and 7E, the random pattern 16 may be formed on the outside of a label 18 on which the composite UID 10 is printed. The random pattern 16 on the outside of the label 18 is formed, for example, on an article to which the label 18 is affixed. Then, the feature amount of each random pattern 16 may be used for matching determination.

[0082] Furthermore, when capturing an image of the random pattern 16, the composite UID reader 30 of this embodiment may display a reading range 56A shown in FIG. 8 on the display unit 36 ​​so that the entire composite UID 10 is included in the angle of view of the camera 32 and the composite UID reader 30 can reliably read the composite UID 10. The user places the QR code 14 within this reading range 56A, and captures the composite UID 10 in this state. This allows the user to be guided to capture the entire composite UID 10 more naturally, and when there are multiple random patterns 16, the user can capture the composite UID 10 without clearly recognizing which random pattern 16 is to be used for matching.

[0083] The flow of the composite UID reading process when the reading range 56A is displayed will be described with reference to the flow of FIG.

[0084] First, in step S250, the reader 40 scans the QR code 14 included in the composite UID 10.

[0085] In the next step S252, information including the reading range 56A associated with the QR code 14 is obtained from the server 50.

[0086] In the next step S254, the display control unit 46 displays the reading range 56A on the display unit 36. This guides the user to place the QR code 14 in the reading range 56A, and as a result, to place the entire composite UID 10 in the reading range 56B. Note that the reading range 56B is not displayed on the display unit 36.

[0087] The size of the read range 56A may vary depending on the composite UID 10. For example, FIG. 8A shows a case where the random pattern 16 is formed only within the label 22. On the other hand, FIG. 8B shows a case where the random pattern 16 is also formed on the left side outside the label 22. In the case of FIG. 8B, the range to be read as the composite UID 10 (read range 56B) is wider than in the case of FIG. 8A. Therefore, the read range 56A in FIG. 8B is narrower than the read range 56A in FIG. 8A.

[0088] In the next step S258, the reading unit 40 determines whether or not the QR code 14 is within the reading range 56A. If the determination is affirmative, the process proceeds to step S258, whereas if the determination is negative, the process enters a waiting state.

[0089] In step S258, an image of the composite UID 10 is captured while the QR code 14 is within the reading range 56A, and then the process proceeds to step S204 described with reference to FIG.

[0090] 8C, a pattern 56C may be displayed to guide the user to place the entire composite UID 10 within a predetermined range of the display unit 36. This allows the user to more naturally image the entire composite UID 10, and when there are multiple random patterns 16, the user can image the composite UID 10 without clearly recognizing which random pattern 16 is to be used for matching.

[0091] Second embodiment The composite UID 10 of this embodiment will be described below. As shown in Fig. 10, in the composite UID 10 of this embodiment, a random pattern 60 is formed in a color different from that of the QR code 14 in the code region 12. Since the QR code 14 is formed of white and black cells, the random pattern 60 of this embodiment is formed by a plurality of patterns 62 colored in a color different from white and black. In Fig. 10, a rectangle hatched with vertical lines indicates a red pattern 62R, a rectangle hatched with horizontal lines indicates a green pattern 62G, and a rectangle hatched with oblique lines indicates a yellow pattern 62Y.

[0092] In addition, pattern 62 may be a circle or a triangle, or different shapes may be mixed, and the color may be a color other than red, green, and yellow as long as it is a color that can be distinguished from QR code 14, and may be more than one color. In particular, a good example is to use a light color that does not hinder the identification of QR code 14.

[0093] In this way, by coloring the pattern 62, it is possible to distinguish between the random pattern 60 even when it is superimposed on the QR code 14. Specifically, the portion of the pattern 62 superimposed on the black cells is displayed in black, the portion of the pattern 62 superimposed on the white cells is displayed in the color of the pattern 62, and the white cells where the pattern 62 is not superimposed remain white.

[0094] The feature amount of the random pattern 60 in this embodiment is information based on the random pattern 60 formed in a color different from that of the QR code 14. This feature amount is, for example, at least one of the number and positions of all patterns 62 constituting the random pattern 60 in the code region 12, the positions of the patterns 62 of a predetermined color, and the number of patterns 62 of a predetermined color, and a plurality of feature amounts, such as the positions and number of the patterns 62 of a predetermined color, may be combined into one feature amount.

[0095] FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing the manufacturing process of the composite UID 10 of this embodiment.

[0096] First, in step S300, the random pattern 60 is endlessly printed on the long material roll 20 for forming the label 18. In the next step S302, the random pattern 60 is cut out.

[0097] In the next step S304, an image of the random pattern 60 printed on the material roll 20 is captured. In the next step S306, a feature amount of the random pattern 60 is extracted from the captured image.

[0098] In the next step S308, a predetermined QR code 14 is printed for each label 18. At this time, the QR code 14 is formed so as to reflect the feature amount of the random pattern 60 together with the associated information. Note that the information code formed is not limited to the QR code 14, and may be other information codes such as SQRC, Data Matrix, etc.

[0099] In this way, the composite UID 10 of this embodiment is formed by reflecting the feature amount of the random pattern 60 in the QR code 14, so there is no need to store the feature amount in the storage device 54 of the server 50. Therefore, when the QR code 14 is read, it is possible to determine the authenticity without needing to inquire of the server 50.

[0100] The composite UID reading process of this embodiment is similar to the process of Fig. 6 described in the first embodiment, but since the feature is not stored in the server 50, the feature is not read from the server 50. Also, in this embodiment, in step S206, which is for determining the authenticity of the composite UID 10, it is determined whether the feature read from the random pattern 60 of the composite UID 10 matches the feature indicated by the QR code 14. If the determination is affirmative, the process proceeds to step S210, and if the determination is negative, the process proceeds to step S212.

[0101] In this embodiment, there are portions of the random pattern 60 that overlap with the black cells of the QR code 14. For this reason, there is a possibility that the outline of the random pattern 60 cannot be clearly read when reading the composite UID 10. Therefore, when reading the composite UID 10, the random pattern 60 with an unclear outline is corrected to clarify the outline of the random pattern 60. As an example, since the shape of the random pattern 60, for example, the size of a rectangle, is set in advance, this correction is performed by recognizing the corners and straight lines of the random pattern 60 that overlap with the black cells, and estimating the positions of the corners of the overlapping random pattern 60. In addition, by devising a mask pattern used when creating the QR code 14, measures such as avoiding overlapping between the QR code 14 and the random pattern 60 may be taken.

[0102] Third embodiment The QR code 14 of this embodiment is formed reflecting information indicating a predetermined subject (hereinafter referred to as "subject information"). The subject information is, for example, image information obtained by capturing an image of the subject, a hash value of the image information, feature amounts of the subject extracted from the image information, and a hash value of the feature amounts. The feature amounts of the subject are, for example, the shape, color, size, or a combination of these of the subject. Note that the subject is, for example, an object, but is not limited thereto, and may also be a hologram or the surface pattern of the printing paper on which the QR code 14 is printed.

[0103] By using the hash value of the image file and the hash value of the feature amount, it is possible to compress the amount of data sent to the server 50. Also, by using the hash value when putting an image file or feature amount into the QR code 14, it is possible to prevent the QR code 14 from becoming bloated. A good example of using an algorithm such as SHA-256 when calculating the hash value.

[0104] When calculating the hash value, an algorithm such as SHA-256 may be used once, or alternatively, an algorithm such as SHA-256 may be used multiple times a preset number of times. Also, the number of times an algorithm such as SHA-256 is used may be determined according to the contents of the QR code 14, or the number of times may be determined from the random pattern 16 and its features. Using these methods makes it possible to create a QR code 14 that is more difficult to copy.

[0105] In this embodiment, when the QR code 14 is read by the QR code reading device, image information of an image of a subject is also read. The image information is read, for example, by inputting the image information into the QR code reading device.

[0106] Then, a comparison is made to see whether the subject information read from the QR code 14 matches the subject information read from the image information, and if the comparison is successful, the QR code 14 is deemed to be genuine and the registration information indicated by the QR code 14 is displayed. On the other hand, if the comparison is unsuccessful, the QR code 14 is deemed to be counterfeit and the registration information indicated by the QR code 14 is not displayed.

[0107] (Fourth embodiment) 12 is a functional block diagram showing the functions of the combined UID reader 70 of the fourth embodiment. The basic configuration of the combined UID reader 70 of the fourth embodiment is the same as that of the combined UID reader 30 of the first embodiment (see FIG. 5), but in addition to the configuration of the combined UID reader 30 of the first embodiment, a distortion correction unit 72 is further provided.

[0108] The composite UID to be read by the composite UID reader 70 of the fourth embodiment is a composite UID having a plurality of finder patterns, at least one of which is located outside the code area. Here, the configuration of the composite UID to be read will be described.

[0109] 13A and 13B are external views of a composite UID 60 read by a composite UID reader 70 in the fourth embodiment. The composite UID 100 shown in Fig. 13A has an information code 14 formed in a predetermined code area 12, a random pattern 16 arranged outside the code area 12, and a finder pattern 110 arranged outside the code area 12. A QR code is provided inside the code area 12 as the information code 14. The QR code has a finder pattern 14A.

[0110] As shown in FIG. 13A, finder pattern 110 has a shape in which a black square is surrounded by a black frame at a certain interval. If the thickness of the outer black frame is 1, the white interval is also 1, and the length of the side of the inner square is 3. Finder pattern 110 has a black-white ratio of 1:1:3:1:1 for the scanning line passing through the center of finder pattern 110 from any direction of 360°. Finder pattern 110 is the same as finder pattern 14A used in QR code. In this embodiment, finder pattern 110 is the same as finder pattern 14A of QR code, but another shape that is easy to detect may be used. For example, the black-white ratio may be changed to 1:1:4:1:1. Also, a shape in which a black circle is surrounded by a black frame at a certain interval may be used.

[0111] Finder pattern 110 arranged outside code area 12 and finder pattern 14A of the QR code have the same configuration. Finder pattern 110 outside code area 12 is not part of the QR code and has a different role, so it is given a different reference number. In this embodiment, an example is taken of using a QR code as information code 14 as shown in Figure 13A, and finder pattern 14A constituting part of the QR code is used for distortion correction and area identification.

[0112] 13A shows a composite UID 100 in which various model patterns 17A, such as a circle, double circle, triangle, star, etc., are included in a random pattern 16. A finder pattern 17B is also included in the random pattern 16, which is provided as one aspect of the model pattern. In this embodiment, the finder pattern 17B is used to extract the feature amount of the random pattern 16.

[0113] Figure 13B is a diagram showing another example of a composite UID 102. The difference from the composite UID 100 shown in Figure 13A is that a Data Matrix is ​​used as the information code 14, instead of a QR code. A Data Matrix does not have a finder pattern 14A like a QR code. The example shown in Figure 13B has four finder patterns 110 outside the code region 12.

[0114] 13A and 13B are merely examples, and the configuration of the composite UID is not limited to the above. The composite UID used in this embodiment only needs to have at least one finder pattern arranged outside the code area 12.

[0115] Here, a method for manufacturing a composite UID having finder pattern 110 outside code area 12 will be described. Basically, it is the same as the manufacturing method described in Fig. 3, but in step S104 of printing the QR code, finder pattern 110 is formed simultaneously with the QR code. By forming finder pattern 110 in this manner in synchronization with the QR code, the positional relationship and distance between finder pattern 14A in the QR code and finder pattern 110 can be easily grasped.

[0116] Next, the configuration of the composite UID reader 70 will be explained. However, since the basic configuration is the same as that of the composite UID reader 30 of the first embodiment, the following explanation will focus on the differences from the composite UID reader 30 of the first embodiment.

[0117] The distortion correction unit 72 included in the multi-UID reader 70 of the fourth embodiment has a function of correcting distortion of a read image using the finder pattern 110 and the finder pattern 14A of the QR code. The distortion correction unit 72 corrects distortion of the image based on the distance between the finder patterns 110 and 14A, or the positional relationship between the finder patterns 110 and 14A. Note that the distortion correction unit 72 may perform distortion correction using not only the finder pattern 110, but also the outer shape of the information code 14, the outer shape including the information code 14 and the finder pattern 110, or an alignment pattern or a specific cell (e.g., the original pattern 14C described in FIG. 2, etc.) when the information code 14 is a QR code.

[0118] Figures 14A and 14B are diagrams for explaining distortion correction using information on the distance between finder patterns 110 and 14A. Figure 14A shows an example of a read image in which distortion has occurred, and Figure 14B shows the original image without distortion. As can be seen by comparing Figures 14A and 14B, the distance between finder patterns 110 and 14A in the original image was D1 to D4, but in the read image, the distance has become shorter, to d1 to d4, due to distortion.

[0119] Distortion correction unit 72 corrects the image so that distances d1-d4 between finder patterns 110, 14A in the read image become the distances D1-D4 between finder patterns 110, 14A in the original image. Note that distances D1-D4 between finder patterns 110, 14A in the original image are obtained in advance from server 50 and stored in storage unit 38. As another aspect, information on the original distances between finder patterns 110, 14A may be included in information code 14.

[0120] In this embodiment, an example has been given in which the correction is performed using the distances of all sides of the finder patterns 110 and 14A constituting a rectangle, but it is not necessary to use the distances of all sides. It is also possible to use the distance of the diagonal of the rectangle.

[0121] Figures 15A and 15B are diagrams for explaining distortion correction using information on the positional relationship between finder patterns 110 and 14A. Figure 15A shows an example of a read image in which distortion has occurred, and Figure 15B shows the original image without distortion. As can be seen by comparing Figures 15A and 15B, in the original image, finder patterns 110 and 14A were in a positional relationship formed by the vertices of a square, but in the read image, finder patterns 110 and 14A form a parallelogram due to distortion.

[0122] Distortion correction unit 72 corrects the image so that the parallelogram formed by finder patterns 110, 14A in the read image becomes a square like finder patterns 110, 14A in the original image. The positional relationship between finder patterns 110, 14A in the original image is obtained in advance from server 50 and stored in storage unit 38. As another aspect, information on the positional relationship between finder patterns 110, 14A may be included in information code 14.

[0123] The combined UID reader 70 extracts and collates features of the random pattern 16 using an image whose distortion has been corrected by a distortion correction unit 72, and this configuration is the same as that of the combined UID reader 30 of the first embodiment.

[0124] The above describes the composite UID reader 70 of the fourth embodiment. The composite UID reader 70 of the fourth embodiment reads a composite UID having a finder pattern 110 outside the code area 12, and corrects distortion of the read image based on the distance between the finder patterns 110 and 14A or the positional relationship between the finder patterns 110 and 14A, so that the feature amount of the random pattern 16 can be appropriately extracted based on the corrected image.

[0125] The finder patterns 110 and 14A have a unique ratio of black to white of 1:1:3:1:1 for the scanning line passing through the center, so they can be detected in a short time. The composite UID reader 70 of this embodiment can perform distortion correction in a short time by using the finder patterns 110 and 14A.

[0126] In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which distortion correction is performed by the distortion correction unit 72 when comparing the features of the random pattern 16, but distortion correction by the distortion correction unit may also be performed in the process of generating a composite UID (see FIG. 3). That is, after printing the QR code and finder pattern (S104), the composite UID is photographed (S106) and its features are extracted (S106), but distortion correction by the distortion correction unit may be performed before the feature extraction. By registering the features extracted by such a configuration in the server, the accuracy of the true / false determination can be improved.

[0127] Fifth embodiment 16 is a diagram showing the configuration of a combined UID reader 80 of the fifth embodiment. The basic configuration of the combined UID reader 80 of the fifth embodiment is the same as that of the combined UID reader 70 of the fourth embodiment, but the combined UID reader 80 of the fifth embodiment includes an area specifying unit 74 in addition to the configuration of the combined UID reader 70 of the fourth embodiment. The area specifying unit 74 specifies an area formed by a plurality of finder patterns 110, 14A from an image that has been subjected to distortion correction by the distortion correction unit 72.

[0128] Fig. 17 is a diagram showing an area identified by area identifying unit 74. In the example shown in Fig. 17, there are two finder patterns 110 on the outside of code area 12 and three finder patterns 14A on the inside of code area 12. Area identifying unit 74 uses a total of four finder patterns: the two finder patterns 14A on the left side of the three finder patterns 14A on the inside of information code 14, and the outer finder pattern 110. Area identifying unit 74 identifies a square area connecting the center points of each of the four finder patterns 110, 14A.

[0129] The feature extraction unit 42 of the combined UID reader 80 of the fifth embodiment detects a model pattern within the area specified by the area specification unit 74, and extracts the feature amount thereof.

[0130] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of detecting a model pattern in an area specified by the area specifying unit 74 and extracting its feature amount. In the example shown in FIG. 18A, feature amounts may be obtained for four model patterns in the area Z specified by the finder patterns 110 and 14A. In contrast, as shown in FIG. 18B, when the area is not specified, the feature amount extracting unit 42 must extract feature amounts for 14 model patterns, which increases the amount of calculation processing. In this way, by limiting the area Z from which the model pattern is extracted, the amount of calculation processing for feature amount extraction can be reduced. In addition, by performing distortion correction, the accuracy of image recognition is improved and the security level of the composite UID reading device 80 of this embodiment can be controlled.

[0131] The composite UID reader 80 of the fifth embodiment includes a distortion correction unit 72 and an area specification unit 74, but it is also possible to omit the distortion correction unit 72. Even if distortion correction is not performed, the area is specified by the finder pattern 110, thereby limiting the range in which the model pattern is detected and reducing the amount of calculation.

[0132] Although the present invention has been described above using the above embodiment, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the scope described in the above embodiment. Various modifications or improvements can be made to the above embodiment without departing from the gist of the invention, and the forms with such modifications or improvements are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

[0133] For example, the composite UID 10 described in the first embodiment may be manufactured by the manufacturing process described in the second embodiment, the QR code 14 may be formed reflecting the feature amount, and the feature amount may not be registered in the server 50. Also, the composite UID 10 described in the second embodiment may be manufactured by the manufacturing process described in the first embodiment, and the feature amount may be registered in the server 50.

[0134] Furthermore, the random pattern 16 described in the first embodiment may be formed inside the code region 12, and the random pattern 60 described in the second embodiment may be formed outside the code region 12.

[0135] Furthermore, the composite UID 10 may have a random pattern 16 formed within the code area 12, and a random pattern 60 formed outside the code area 12. The composite UID 10 may include a QR code 14 reflecting the subject information described in the third embodiment, and at least one of the random pattern 16 and the random pattern 60.

[0136] In the above embodiment, the information code 14 formed in the code area 12 is described as a QR code, but the present invention is not limited to this, and may be other information codes, such as barcodes, formed by a plurality of cells. The information code 14 may be an information code combining a plurality of QR codes, and various images such as logos, figures, and characters may be formed in color in the central area of ​​the information code 14. The information code may be formed not only with white and black cells, but also with red, yellow, blue, and other color cells, such as Chameleon Code (registered trademark), or may use other colors in addition to white and black. The information code is not limited to a code formed by cells, and may be in any form that can be recognized as an information code, such as a code represented by figures.

[0137] Moreover, instead of the random pattern 16, the pattern of the product label may be used, and instead of the random pattern 16, the shape, color, position, etc. of the product to which the QR code 14 is attached may be used.

[0138] Furthermore, the random pattern 16 may be printed with a special ink that is invisible to the human eye, or the random pattern 16 may be created by spraying diamond powder, glass powder, or the like.

[0139] Furthermore, the processing flow described in the above embodiment is merely an example, and unnecessary steps may be deleted, new steps may be added, or the processing order may be rearranged, without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0140] In the fourth and fifth embodiments described above, an example of a composite UID 100 in which the finder pattern 110 is arranged at the same height as the finder pattern 14A of the QR code 14 is given, but as shown in Fig. 19, the finder pattern 110 may be arranged at the four corners of the composite UID 100. This makes it possible to perform distortion correction over the entire label area.

[0141] In the fourth and fifth embodiments described above, an example was given in which finder pattern 110 arranged outside code region 12 was used as preprocessing for obtaining the feature amount of random pattern 16, but applications using finder pattern 110 are not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments. Using finder patterns other than QR codes, it is possible to identify the center position of a finder pattern, measure the distance between finder patterns, specify a range using a finder pattern, correct distortion, etc.

[0142] Although the present disclosure has been described based on the embodiment, it is understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiment or structure. The present disclosure also includes various modifications and modifications within the equivalent range. In addition, various combinations and forms, and other combinations and forms including only one element, more than one element, or less than one element, are also within the scope and concept of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A composite information code produced by cutting a material roll on which a predetermined pattern is endlessly printed, An information code (14) formed in a predetermined code area (12); an irregular pattern (16) formed at least either outside the code area or within the code area by a cycle of the predetermined pattern being different from a cycle of cutting the material roll; Equipped with A composite information code (10) in which, when a matching based on the features of the irregular pattern is successful, at least one of information read from the information code and information indicating that the code is legitimate is displayed to a reading device that reads the composite information code.

2. 2. The composite information code according to claim 1, wherein the feature amount of the irregular pattern formed outside the code area is information based on the positions of a predetermined portion of the information code and the irregular pattern.

3. The irregular pattern includes a fixed pattern (17B) to be detected, 3. The composite information code according to claim 2, wherein the feature amount is information based on the positions of the fixed pattern and a predetermined portion of the information code.

4. 4. The composite information code according to claim 2, wherein the predetermined portion is a cut-out symbol (14A) in the case where the information code is a QR code, an alignment pattern (14B), or a unique fixed pattern (14C) to be detected.

5. 5. The composite information code according to claim 1, wherein the feature amount of the irregular pattern formed in the code area is information based on the irregular pattern formed in the code area in a color different from that of the information code.

6. The feature amount is stored in a storage device (54); 6. The composite information code according to claim 1, wherein when the feature read from the irregular pattern matches the feature stored in the storage device, a reading device that reads the composite information code displays at least one of information read from the information code and information indicating that the code is a legitimate code.

7. the information code is formed to reflect the feature amount, 7. The composite information code according to claim 1, wherein when the feature read from the irregular pattern matches the feature indicated by the information code, at least one of the information read from the information code and information indicating that the code is legitimate is displayed on a reading device that reads the composite information code.

8. The composite information code according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the information code and the irregular pattern are formed on a label (18) to be attached to an article.

9. A method for producing a composite information code including an information code formed in a predetermined code area, comprising the steps of: endlessly printing a predetermined pattern on a roll of material; an irregular pattern forming step of cutting the material roll at a cycle different from the predetermined pattern to form an irregular pattern at least either outside the code area or inside the code area for verifying the authenticity of the composite information code; an information code forming step of forming the information code in the code area; A method for producing a composite information code having the following features:

10. a first step of generating a composite information code generated by cutting a material roll on which a predetermined pattern has been endlessly printed, the composite information code including an information code formed within a predetermined code area, and an irregular pattern formed at least either outside the code area or within the code area by a cycle of the predetermined pattern being different from a cycle of cutting the material roll; a second step of causing the server to store the information code and the feature amount of the irregular pattern in a storage unit in association with each other; A method for registering a composite information code having the above features.

11. a reading unit (40) for reading a composite information code generated by cutting a material roll on which a predetermined pattern has been endlessly printed, the composite information code including an information code formed within a predetermined code area and an irregular pattern formed at least either outside the code area or within the code area due to a cycle of the predetermined pattern being different from a cycle of cutting the material roll; an extraction unit (42) for extracting a feature amount of the irregular pattern read by the reading unit; A matching unit (44) that performs matching based on the feature amount extracted by the extraction unit; a control unit (46) for controlling a display unit to display at least one of information read from the information code and information based on a result of the collation when the collation by the collation unit is successful; A composite information code reader (30) comprising:

12. The information code includes a correction pattern (14B) for correcting distortion that occurs when reading the code, 12. The information code reading device according to claim 11, wherein the reading section corrects distortion of the read information code and also corrects distortion of the imaged irregular pattern by using the correction pattern.

13. The control unit controls the display unit to display a reading range (56A) of the information code, 13. The information code reading device according to claim 11, further comprising an imaging section that captures an image of the composite information code when the information code is displayed within the reading range.

14. A first step in which a reading device reads a composite information code generated by cutting a material roll on which a predetermined pattern is endlessly printed, the composite information code including an information code formed within a predetermined code area and an irregular pattern formed at least either outside the code area or within the code area due to the period of the predetermined pattern being different from the period of cutting the material roll; a second step in which the reading device extracts a feature amount of the irregular pattern read in the first step; a third step in which the reading device performs matching based on the feature amount extracted in the second step; a fourth step of controlling a display unit of the reading device to display at least one of information read from the information code and information based on a result of the matching when the matching is successful in the third step; A method for reading a composite information code having the above-mentioned features.

15. a reading unit that reads a composite information code generated by cutting a material roll on which a predetermined pattern is endlessly printed, the composite information code having an information code formed within a predetermined code area, an irregular pattern formed at least either outside the code area or within the code area by a period of the predetermined pattern being different from a period of cutting the material roll, and a plurality of finder patterns, at least one of which is disposed outside the code area; a distortion correction unit (72) for correcting image distortion occurring during reading based on the finder pattern read by the reading unit; an extraction unit that extracts a feature amount of the irregular pattern from the image corrected by the distortion correction unit; A composite information code reading device comprising:

16. a storage unit that stores distances between finder patterns of the composite information code, 16. The composite information code reader according to claim 15, wherein said distortion correction section corrects image distortion based on a distance between the finder patterns read by said reading section and a distance between the finder patterns stored in said memory section.

17. a storage unit that stores a positional relationship of a finder pattern of the composite information code, 16. The composite information code reading device according to claim 15, wherein the distortion correction unit corrects image distortion based on a positional relationship of a finder pattern read by the reading unit within each composite information code and a positional relationship of a finder pattern stored in the memory unit.

18. an area specifying unit that specifies an area formed by the plurality of finder patterns; 16. The composite information code reader according to claim 15, wherein the extraction unit extracts a feature amount from an image within the area specified by the area specification unit.

19. a reading unit that reads a composite information code generated by cutting a material roll on which a predetermined pattern is endlessly printed, the composite information code having an information code formed within a predetermined code area, an irregular pattern formed at least either outside the code area or within the code area by a period of the predetermined pattern being different from a period of cutting the material roll, and a plurality of finder patterns, at least one of which is disposed outside the code area; an area specifying unit that specifies an area formed by the plurality of finder patterns; an extraction unit that extracts a feature amount of the irregular pattern from an image within the area specified by the area specification unit; A composite information code reading device comprising:

20. A composite information code produced by cutting a material roll on which a predetermined pattern is endlessly printed, An information code formed in a predetermined code area; an irregular pattern formed at least either outside the code area or within the code area by a cycle of the predetermined pattern being different from a cycle of cutting the material roll; a plurality of finder patterns, at least one of which is located outside the code region; A composite information code in which image distortion occurring during reading is corrected based on the finder pattern, and a feature amount of the irregular pattern is extracted based on the corrected image.

21. A composite information code produced by cutting a material roll on which a predetermined pattern is endlessly printed, An information code formed in a predetermined code area; an irregular pattern formed at least one outside the code area and within the code area by a cycle of the predetermined pattern being different from a cycle of cutting the material roll; a plurality of finder patterns, at least one of which is located outside the code region; A composite information code in which a feature amount of the irregular pattern is extracted from an area formed by the plurality of finder patterns.

22. A method for producing a composite information code including an information code formed in a predetermined code area, comprising the steps of: endlessly printing a predetermined pattern on a roll of material; an irregular pattern forming step of cutting the material roll at a cycle different from the predetermined pattern to form an irregular pattern at least one outside the code region and inside the code region; an information code forming step of forming the information code within the code area and forming a finder pattern outside the code area; A method for manufacturing a composite information code comprising the steps of:

23. A first step in which a reading device reads a composite information code generated by cutting a roll of material on which a predetermined pattern is endlessly printed, the composite information code having an information code formed within a predetermined code area, an irregular pattern formed at least either outside the code area or within the code area due to the period of the predetermined pattern being different from the period of cutting the roll of material, and a plurality of finder patterns, at least one of which is positioned outside the code area; a second step in which the reading device corrects image distortion occurring during reading based on the finder pattern read in the first step; a third step in which the reading device extracts a feature amount of the irregular pattern from the image corrected for distortion in the second step; A method for reading a composite information code comprising the steps of:

24. A first step in which a reading device reads a composite information code generated by cutting a roll of material on which a predetermined pattern is endlessly printed, the composite information code having an information code formed within a predetermined code area, an irregular pattern formed at least either outside the code area or within the code area due to the period of the predetermined pattern being different from the period of cutting the roll of material, and a plurality of finder patterns, at least one of which is positioned outside the code area; a second step of the reading device identifying an area formed by the plurality of finder patterns; a third step in which the reading device extracts a feature amount of the irregular pattern from an image within the area specified in the second step; A composite information code reading method comprising the steps of:

Images