Optical information reading device, optical information reading method, optical information reading program, computer-readable recording medium, and device storing the program

Abstract

To make it possible to check the reading of symbols without increasing a burden on a user.SOLUTION: An optical information reading device 100 comprises: a reading unit 42 that reads information on a symbol based on image data generated by an imaging unit 10; a display 3 that has a plurality of input windows; an operation unit 32 that selects, from the plurality of input windows displayed on the display 3, an input target window to be a target of input; a setting unit 43 that sets an input condition for input target data input to the input target window selected by the operation unit 32; and a determination unit 44 that determines whether information on one symbol included in the image data generated by the imaging unit 10 satisfies the input condition. The reading unit 42 is configured to input information on the read symbol to the input target window when the determination unit 44 determines that the information on one symbol satisfies the input condition.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an optical information reading device for reading symbols such as barcodes and two-dimensional codes, an optical information reading method, an optical information reading program, a computer-readable recording medium, and a device having the program stored thereon. [Background technology]

[0002] There is known a handheld optical information reading device, called a handy type, which receives light from a symbol such as a barcode or QR code to be read, obtains image data of the symbol using an image sensor, and reads information corresponding to the symbol by analyzing the image data. In such an optical information reading device, the information read from the symbol is input into a specified input target window.

[0003] In such an input window, there are different input formats such as part numbers, numerical values, etc. Also, in the workspace where the user works, there are many bar codes of different data types corresponding to part numbers and quantities.

[0004] However, conventional optical information reading devices are set up to be able to read any type of code, which means that they can unintentionally read a barcode that is close to the desired barcode, resulting in reduced productivity. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2019-101555 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] It is an object of the present invention to provide an optical information reading device and an optical information reading method that enable checking of symbol reading without increasing the burden on the user.

[0007] According to an optical information reading device according to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an optical information reading device for imaging a symbol to be read, reading information of the symbol, and inputting the information into an input target window, the optical information reading device comprising: an imaging unit which converts light which is incident on the symbol and reflected by the symbol into an electrical signal to generate image data; a reading unit which reads the information of the symbol based on the image data generated by the imaging unit; a display unit having a plurality of input windows; an operation unit which selects an input target window to be an input target from the plurality of input windows displayed on the display unit; a setting unit which sets input conditions for input target data to be input into the input target window selected by the operation unit; and a determination unit which determines whether information of a symbol included in the image data generated by the imaging unit satisfies the input condition, and the reading unit writes the read information into the input target window when the determination unit determines that the information of the symbol satisfies the input condition. The one The above-mentioned configuration can be configured to input symbol information. By limiting the symbol conditions, such as the code type, number of digits, and reading operation, for each input window, it is possible to reduce erroneous reading of unnecessary symbols.

[0008] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an optical information reading method for imaging a symbol to be read, reading information of the symbol, and inputting the information into an input target window, the method including the steps of: setting, by a setting unit, input conditions for input target data to be input into an arbitrary input target window among a plurality of input windows displayed on a display unit; selecting, by an operation unit, the input target window to be the input target from the plurality of input windows displayed on the display unit; converting light that is incident on the symbol and reflected by the symbol into an electrical signal and generating image data by an imaging unit; judging, by a determination unit, whether or not information of a symbol included in the image data generated by the imaging unit satisfies the input conditions; and, when it is determined by the determination unit that the information of the one symbol satisfies the input conditions, displaying the read information into the input target window. The one and inputting symbol information by a reading unit. This can reduce erroneous reading of unnecessary symbols by limiting the symbol conditions, such as the code type, the number of digits, and the reading operation, for each input window.

[0009] Furthermore, according to another aspect of the present invention, an optical information reading program includes: The present invention is used in a computer including a display unit that displays information to a user, a setting unit that performs settings related to an imaging process or a reading process, an operation unit through which a user performs a setting operation, an imaging unit that performs the imaging process, a reading unit that performs the reading process, and a determination unit that performs a determination related to the reading process by the reading unit, An optical information reading program for capturing an image of a symbol to be read, reading information of the symbol, and inputting the information into an input window, comprising: The above The input target data to be input to any of the input target windows that are displayed on the display unit and that make up the input target window. input Conditions The above A function set by a setting unit, and an input target window to be input from among the plurality of input windows displayed on the display unit. The above The function selected by the operation panel and the reflected light from the symbol are converted into an electrical signal. The above A function of generating image data by an imaging unit, and based on the image data generated by the imaging unit, The aboveA function of reading symbol information with a reading unit, and determining whether or not information of a symbol included in image data generated by the imaging unit satisfies the input condition. The above a function of determining by a determination unit, and when the determination unit determines that the information of the one symbol satisfies the input condition, displaying the read information in the input target window; The one Symbol information The above The computer can realize a function of inputting the symbol by the reading unit. With the above configuration, by limiting the symbol conditions for each input window, such as the code type, the number of digits, and the reading operation, it is possible to reduce erroneous reading of unnecessary symbols.

[0010] Furthermore, a computer-readable recording medium or a device that stores the program according to another aspect of the present invention is a medium that stores the program or a device that stores the program. The recording medium includes a CD-ROM, a CD-R, a CD-RW, a flexible disk, a magnetic tape, an MO, a DVD-ROM, a DVD-RAM, a DVD-R, a DVD+R, a DVD-RW, a DVD+RW, Blu-ray (trade name), UHD BD (trade name), HD DVD (AOD: trade name), and other magnetic disks, optical disks, magneto-optical disks, semiconductor memories, and other media that can store a program. The program includes a program that is stored in the recording medium and distributed, as well as a program that is distributed by downloading through a network line such as the Internet. The device that stores the program includes a general-purpose or dedicated device in which the program is implemented in an executable state in the form of software or firmware. Furthermore, each process or function included in the program may be executed by a program software that can be executed by a computer, or the process of each part may be realized by hardware such as a predetermined gate array (FPGA, ASIC), or a form in which the program software and a partial hardware module that realizes some elements of the hardware are mixed. In this specification, a computer-readable recording medium includes a non-transitory tangible medium or a transitory propagating signal. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] 1 is an external perspective view of an optical information reader according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the optical information reader of FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 13 is an image diagram showing a state in which none of a plurality of input windows of a user application is selected. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an image diagram showing a state in which input window 1 is selected as a window to be input in FIG. [Diagram 5] 13 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a limiting condition selection unit that switches limiting conditions; FIG. [Figure 6] 13 is a flowchart showing a procedure for setting and saving a plurality of limiting conditions. [Figure 7] FIG. 13 is an image diagram showing an example of a limiting condition setting screen. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is an image diagram of the limiting condition setting screen of FIG. 7 scrolled downward. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is an image diagram of the limiting condition setting screen of FIG. 8 scrolled downward. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is an image diagram showing a trigger setting screen. [Figure 11A] FIG. 13 is an image diagram showing a target setting screen. [Figure 11B] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an imaging field of view when narrow (1D) is selected in the decoding field of view. [Figure 11C] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an imaging field of view when narrow (2D) is selected as the decoding field of view. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is an image diagram showing a code collection setting screen. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is an image diagram showing a decode setting screen. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is an image diagram of the decode setting screen of FIG. 13 scrolled downward. [Figure 15] FIG. 13 is an image diagram showing a read code type setting screen. [Figure 16A]FIG. 13 is an image diagram showing a chord parameter type setting screen. [Figure 16B] FIG. 13 is an image diagram showing a chord parameter setting screen. [Figure 17] FIG. 13 is an image diagram showing a format setting screen. [Figure 18A] FIG. 13 is a conceptual diagram showing an output setting screen. [Figure 18B] FIG. 13 is an image diagram showing a terminator setting screen. [Figure 19] FIG. 13 is an image diagram showing a setting screen for successful reading. [Figure 20] FIG. 13 is an image diagram showing a setting screen for when reading has failed. [Figure 21] FIG. 13 is an image diagram showing a data output setting screen. [Figure 22] 13 is a flowchart showing a procedure for assigning a limiting condition to an input window. [Diagram 23] 8 is an image diagram showing a state in which a list box is displayed on the restriction condition setting screen of FIG. 7. [Figure 24] FIG. 13 is an image diagram showing an input box allocation list screen. [Diagram 25] FIG. 13 is an image diagram showing an application selection screen. [Figure 26] FIG. 13 is an image diagram showing an input window selection screen of a user application. [Figure 27] FIG. 13 is an image diagram showing a limiting condition selection screen. [Figure 28] FIG. 25 is an image diagram showing a state in which the input box allocation list screen of FIG. 24 has been updated. [Figure 29] FIG. 13 is an image diagram showing an input window setting list screen. [Diagram 30] 5 is an image diagram showing an input box information details display screen of FIG. 4. [Diagram 31] FIG. 4 is an image diagram showing a state in which an input window 2 is selected in FIG. 3. [Diagram 32] FIG. 32 is an image diagram showing an input window detailed information display screen of FIG. 31. [Diagram 33]FIG. 4 is an image diagram showing a state in which an input window 3 is selected in FIG. [Diagram 34] FIG. 34 is an image diagram showing an input box information details display screen of FIG. 33. [Diagram 35] 13 is a flowchart showing a procedure for inputting target data into an input window. [Diagram 36] 5 is an image diagram showing a state in which input target data is input to the user application of FIG. 4. [Figure 37] FIG. 11 is a block diagram of an optical information reader according to a second embodiment. [Figure 38] 11 is a flowchart showing a procedure for limiting the type of read code using an auto-learning function. [Figure 39] 11 is a flowchart showing a procedure for optimizing reading conditions using an auto-learning function. [Diagram 40] FIG. 11 is a block diagram of an optical information reader according to a third embodiment. [Diagram 41] FIG. 13 is an image diagram showing an input condition setting screen. [Diagram 42] FIG. 13 is an image diagram showing a learning result display screen. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the embodiment shown below is an example of an optical information reading device, an optical information reading method, an optical information reading program, a computer-readable recording medium, and a device storing the same, which are used to embody the technical idea of ​​the present invention, and the present invention does not specify the optical information reading device, the optical information reading method, the optical information reading program, the computer-readable recording medium, and the device storing the same to the following. Furthermore, this specification does not specify the members shown in the claims to the members of the embodiment in any way. In particular, the dimensions, materials, shapes, and relative positions of the components described in the embodiment are merely explanatory examples, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention, unless otherwise specified. Note that the size and positional relationship of the members shown in each drawing may be exaggerated to clarify the explanation. Furthermore, in the following explanation, the same names and symbols indicate the same or similar members, and detailed explanations will be omitted as appropriate. Furthermore, each element constituting the present invention may be constructed from the same material so that multiple elements can be served by one material, or conversely, the function of one material can be shared by multiple materials. [Embodiment 1]

[0013] An optical information reader is a terminal device for reading symbols such as bar codes and two-dimensional codes. The term optical information reader includes handheld scanners that read and output symbols, as well as handheld terminals and business PDAs that perform any data processing such as registering the read information and collating data.

[0014] The symbols to be read include standardized codes such as barcodes and two-dimensional codes, codes of unique standards, and also character strings consisting of letters and numbers. These symbols are printed directly on the surface of the workpiece or shelf, such as the product to be read, or printed on a label affixed to the surface of the workpiece. Furthermore, reading a symbol generally means decoding the information encoded in the symbol. However, as mentioned above, when the symbol is a character string, it means optical reading (OCR) of the letters and numbers.

[0015] An optical information reader 100 according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown in Figs. 1 and 2. In these figures, Fig. 1 shows an external perspective view of the optical information reader 100, and Fig. 2 shows a block diagram. The optical information reader 100 shown in these figures is a handheld terminal. The optical information reader 100 in Fig. 1 has a plate-like shape in which the outer shape of a substantially rectangular housing 2 is extended in one direction. An imaging module 1 for optically reading a symbol to be read is provided at the tip or back of the housing 2. The imaging module 1 is composed of a camera module that reads symbols such as barcodes, two-dimensional codes, and character strings, a scan module that scans barcodes, and the like.

[0016] A display unit 3 and a key arrangement unit 30 are provided on the top surface of the housing 2. The display unit 3 is provided on one end of the housing 2, and the key arrangement unit 30 is provided on the other end opposite the display unit 3. The key arrangement unit 30 functions as an operation unit 32.

[0017] The housing 2 is composed of a display portion DA having a display unit 3 and a grip portion HA having a key arrangement portion 30, and a user holds the grip portion HA with his / her hand and operates each operation key of the key arrangement portion 30 arranged on the surface side of the grip portion HA while referring to the display content of the display unit 3 provided on the display portion DA. The housing 2 is designed so that the display portion DA is wide and the grip portion HA is narrow in a plan view, while the grip portion HA is thick in a side view. This makes the grip portion HA easy to hold.

[0018] The display unit 3 is provided on one side of the housing 2, and displays various information such as an image of the symbol to be read captured by the camera unit, information on the decoded symbol, and other setting information. The display unit 3 is configured, for example, as a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic electroluminescence (EL), or the like. The display unit 3 may also be configured as a touch panel. The display unit 3 configured as a touch panel also functions as a key input unit.

[0019] The key arrangement section 30 has a number of operation keys arranged thereon, such as a numeric keypad, a power key, and function keys for performing various operations. The input devices arranged on the key arrangement section 30 constitute a key input section that accepts various input operations. The key arrangement section 30 is also provided with a trigger key 31. By operating the trigger key 31, the data collection timing for collecting symbol information is determined. That is, the imaging section 10 (described in detail later) detects that the trigger key 31 has been operated, converts reflected light from the symbol to be read into an electrical signal, and starts imaging processing to generate image data. In this way, the trigger key 31 determines the trigger signal. Note that in the present invention, the trigger key is not limited to a physical key, and may be, for example, a virtual key displayed on a user interface.

[0020] The optical information reader 100 includes a battery for supplying driving power to ensure portability. The aiming light emitting unit 15 for emitting aiming light indicating the reading position and for identifying the position to be imaged, and the imaging module 1 are provided on the rear side of the housing 2.

[0021] 2 is a block diagram of the optical information reading device 100 according to embodiment 1. As shown in this figure, the optical information reading device 100 includes at least a control unit 40 that executes a control program for controlling the operation, a RAM 51, a storage unit 52, a display unit 3, an operation unit 32, a communication interface 50, and an imaging module 1.

[0022] This optical information reader 100 can install computer programs such as dedicated user applications or execute pre-recorded programs. The computer programs are stored in, for example, a storage unit or RAM, or loaded into these, and executed by the control unit 40.

[0023] The control unit 40 is connected to the above-mentioned hardware units of the optical information reader 100 via an internal bus or the like, and controls the operation of the above-mentioned hardware units, and executes various software functions according to computer programs stored in the storage unit 52. Such a control unit 40 can be suitably realized by a CPU, MPU, SoC, ASIC, or the like. The RAM 51 is composed of a volatile memory such as an SRAM or SDRAM, into which a load module is expanded when a computer program is executed, and which stores temporary data and the like generated when the computer program is executed.

[0024] The control unit 40 also realizes functions such as a reading unit 42, a setting unit 43, a determination unit 44, and an output unit 49. The reading unit 42 reads symbol information based on image data generated by the imaging unit 10. The setting unit 43 sets restriction conditions for input target data to be input to an input target window selected by the operation unit 32. The restriction conditions may include input conditions that restrict the input of input target information to the input window, operation conditions that define the operation of the imaging unit 10, and output conditions regarding the output of the read data. The determination unit 44 determines whether information of a symbol included in the image data generated by the imaging unit satisfies the input conditions. The output unit 49 is a member for outputting data regarding the read information.

[0025] The storage unit 52 is a member for storing various information such as image data, setting information, etc. For example, it stores image data captured by the imaging module 50, computer programs, firmware, etc. This storage unit 52 can be configured of a non-volatile memory such as a ROM.

[0026] The storage unit 52 realizes the functions of a limiting condition saving unit 53, an allocation saving unit 54, etc. The limiting condition saving unit 53 is a member for saving limiting conditions (described in detail below), such as input conditions for limiting the input of input target information into an input window, operating conditions for defining the operation of the imaging unit 10, and output conditions for outputting read data. The allocation saving unit 54 is a member for holding the correspondence relationship (described in detail below) of limiting conditions assigned to input windows. Furthermore, firmware is also stored in the storage unit 52. The firmware is a group of programs, such as driver software, that controls the operation of each piece of connected hardware.

[0027] The communication interface 50 is connected to an internal bus, and by connecting to an external network such as the Internet, a LAN, or a WAN, it becomes possible to transmit and receive data to and from an external computer, etc. The key arrangement unit 30, which constitutes the operation unit 32, functions as a key input unit that accepts various input operations, and accepts input for operations by key input.

[0028] The aiming light emitting unit 15 is adjacent to the optical system 12 and emits the aiming light. An image captured by the imaging unit 10 after emitting the aiming light from the aiming light emitting unit 15 is called an aimer image. The reading unit 42 can estimate the distance to the symbol based on this aimer image. (Imaging module 1)

[0029] The imaging module 1 includes an illumination unit 14, an imaging unit 10, and an aiming light irradiation unit 15. The illumination unit 14 irradiates illumination light for the optical system. The illumination unit 14 adjusts the light distribution and light amount according to the imaging field of view so as to emit illumination light suitable for imaging in the optical system 12. For the illumination unit 14, a semiconductor light emitting element such as an LED or an organic EL can be suitably used.

[0030] The imaging unit 10 is composed of an optical system 12 and an imaging element 11. The optical system 12 is a member that collects reflected light from a symbol, and is preferably composed of one or more optical lenses. It is also preferable that the optical system 12 is a fixed-focus optical system. The imaging element 11 is a member that converts the light collected by the optical system 12 into an electrical signal and generates image data. The imaging element 11 can be an image sensor such as a CMOS or CCD. Here, an image sensor that captures a monochrome image is used as the imaging element 11. (Aiming light irradiation unit 15)

[0031] The aiming light irradiation unit 15 is a member for irradiating the workpiece or symbol with an aiming light (aiming light). The aiming light irradiation unit 15 scans the surface of the workpiece or the like to be imaged in a predetermined scanning pattern so that the reading position can be visually recognized, and draws a predetermined pattern with the trajectory. In this specification, this pattern is called the aiming light or the aiming light. The aiming light can be any pattern, such as a linear light extended in the horizontal direction of the imaging field or the imaged image, or a light forming a cross in the horizontal and vertical directions. Here, the aiming light is a cross-shaped pattern. The aiming light irradiation unit 15 is preferably composed of a laser light source and a scanner capable of scanning the laser light from the laser light source.

[0032] The illumination unit 14, the imaging unit 10, and the aiming light irradiation unit 15 are arranged in a straight line. By arranging the cameras and illumination in a line rather than in two stages in this way, the hardware required for reading symbols can be integrated as the imaging module 1 at the tip side of the housing 2, and the imaging module 1 can be made thin, which contributes to making the optical information reader 100 thinner, lighter, and more compact.

[0033] As shown in Fig. 2, the optical information reading device 100 includes an imaging unit 10, a reading unit 42, a display unit 3, an operation unit 32, a setting unit 43, and a determination unit 44. The imaging unit 10 converts reflected light from a symbol to be read into an electrical signal to generate image data. The reading unit 42 reads information from the symbol based on the image data generated by the imaging unit 10. The display unit 3 has multiple input windows. The operation unit 32 selects an input target window to be used as an input target from the multiple input windows displayed on the display unit 3. The operation by the operation unit 32 includes both key operation using the operation keys and touch panel operation on the display unit 3.

[0034] Using such an optical information reader 100, different kinds of symbols can be read. For example, a symbol is read by the optical information reader 100, and the decoded information is taken into a user application for processing. The user application has a plurality of input windows and input boxes, and the user inputs necessary information into each input window. However, in the workspace where the user works using the optical information reader, there may be many symbols such as barcodes and two-dimensional codes of different data types corresponding to product numbers and quantities. In such a situation, in some user applications, the information to be input may differ for each input window. For example, in the example of the user application UA ​​shown in FIG. 3, three input windows IW1 to 1W3 are provided. In the input window IW1, the location (Location) such as the shelf number where the product is placed is input, in the input window IW2, the name of the product (Product), and in the input window IW3, the quantity (Qty) of the product is input. In such a case, the user inputs by reading different symbols for each input window. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, an example is shown in which the input window IW1 is selected as the input target window from among the three input windows.

[0035] Each symbol not only has different recorded information, but also has different attributes, such as the type of symbol (barcode or two-dimensional code standard), the number of digits, and whether it is textual or numerical information. On the other hand, in order to increase the versatility of the code reader so that a common optical information reader can be used to read different symbols, the reading conditions of the optical information reader are not limited and it is set to be able to read various types of symbols. However, in this case, when reading the desired barcode, another nearby barcode may be unintentionally read, causing a reading error and reducing productivity.

[0036] In such cases, in order to prevent user input errors and ensure accurate reading, it is possible for the user to perform complicated error checking settings in advance on the user application, or to write a program to perform error detection on the server that collects data from the user application.

[0037] However, all of these methods require a heavy burden on the user. In addition, the reality is that no application capable of easily implementing such error checking is provided. In contrast, the optical information reader 100 according to the present embodiment makes it possible to easily implement error checking at the input stage by imposing restrictions on the information itself to be input into the input window.

[0038] Specifically, the optical information reader 100 shown in FIG. 2 includes a setting unit 43 and a determination unit 44. The setting unit 43 sets a restriction condition for input target data to be input to an input target window selected by the operation unit 32. The restriction condition may include, for example, a reading condition that restricts input of input target information to the input window, an operating condition that specifies the operation of the imaging unit 10, and an output condition regarding the output of the read data. The determination unit 44 determines whether or not information on a symbol included in the image data generated by the imaging unit 10 satisfies the input condition. The reading unit 42 is configured to input information on the read symbol to the input target window when the determination unit 44 determines that information on the symbol satisfies the input condition. With this configuration, it is possible to reduce erroneous reading of unnecessary symbols by limiting the conditions for the symbol, such as the code type, the number of digits, and the reading operation, for each input window.

[0039] For example, consider a case where the user application UA ​​implemented in the optical information reader 100 has an input window for reading the location and serial number of a product, and multiple (e.g., 10) serial numbers are read for one location. Here, the input rules for each input window are that the location is 6 digits, such as "123456," and the serial number is 10 digits, such as 1234567890. In this case, the input field for Location in the input window on the user application UA ​​is tapped to specify the input target window, so that only symbols having 6-digit information corresponding to the location are automatically set as the symbols to be read. It is also possible to repeatedly tap the input field for the serial number, which is a different input window, until a desired number of symbols having 10-digit information corresponding to the serial number are read (here, 10). (Input conditions)

[0040] The input conditions that restrict input target data to be input to an input target window selected from among a plurality of input windows are set by the setting unit 43. Examples of the input conditions include the code type of the symbol, the number of digits, the reading mode, and the number of reads. Such restrictive conditions are registered in advance by the setting unit 43, and the input windows on the application screen are associated with the restrictive conditions. When a certain input window is selected by the user as an input target window, the application operates according to the settings associated with the input target window. When the input window selected by the user is changed, the application operates according to the restrictive conditions associated with the changed input target window.

[0041] Furthermore, by performing imaging and reading according to the input conditions, processing can be simplified and accelerated. For example, the reading unit 42 specifies the reading algorithm for the corresponding symbol based on the type of code included in the input conditions. Then, when the determining unit 44 determines that a symbol to be read is to be read, the symbol is read according to the reading algorithm. By limiting the code type of the symbol for each input window in this way, it is possible to reduce erroneous reading of unnecessary symbols. Furthermore, by limiting the reading algorithm to a specific code type, execution of unnecessary reading algorithms can be avoided and reading speed can be improved.

[0042] Furthermore, for example, the input conditions may include rules for character strings, such as the number of digits and format of a symbol. The determination unit 44 determines whether or not the rules for character strings included in the reading end conditions set for the input target window match the rules for character strings included in the information on the symbol read by the reading unit 42. The reading unit 42 is configured to input the information on the read symbol into the input target window when it is determined that the rules for character strings included in the reading end conditions set for the input target window match the rules for character strings included in the information on the read symbol. In this way, by limiting the rules for the number of digits and format of a symbol for each input window, it is possible to reduce misreading of unnecessary symbols. (Operating conditions)

[0043] As the limiting conditions, operating conditions including a trigger setting, a code collection setting, a decode setting including an illumination setting, etc. may be set. A trigger operation, a code collection method, the presence or absence of illumination, a decode process, etc. may be specified according to the set operating conditions.

[0044] The trigger setting is for setting the behavior when the trigger key 31 is pressed, and can be configured to control the imaging of the imaging unit 10 according to the setting. For example, when set to "standard mode," when the trigger key 31 is pressed, imaging continues only while the key is pressed. When set to "auto-off," imaging continues until a certain time has passed after the trigger key 31 is pressed.

[0045] The operating conditions may include the number of consecutive sheets collected at one time. In this case, the determination unit 44 determines whether the information of the specified number of digits is within the number of consecutive sheets collected at one time.

[0046] The operating conditions may also include a code collection setting. The code collection setting may also include a batch reading setting for reading a predetermined number of pieces of information. When the batch reading setting is set, the reading unit 42 continues one imaging process until reading of the number of symbol information included in the batch reading setting is completed. For example, in an application for reading 10 8-digit barcodes, the optical information reading device 100 continues reading until the number of barcodes reaches 10.

[0047] Furthermore, when multiple pieces of information are read, multiple pieces of symbol information may be input into the input window according to input rules set for the input window. Details of the decode settings will be described later. (Output conditions)

[0048] As the limiting conditions, output conditions regarding the output of the read data may be set, and the output unit 49 may output the read data in accordance with the set output conditions.

[0049] The output conditions may include a data addition setting in which the input rules set for the input window add predetermined data to the information read into the input window. The predetermined data may be information on a specific key such as the Enter key or the Tab key. This configuration has the advantage of reducing the effort required to input predetermined data required at the time of input, for example, by pressing the Enter key or the Tab key.

[0050] Furthermore, the output settings may include changing the multiple pieces of information read into the input window into a specified format. For example, by changing the multiple pieces of information into a specified format, such as separating them with commas, the effort required for such conversion can be reduced.

[0051] Furthermore, the output settings may include a sort setting for sorting the data to be output. With this configuration, the user can obtain data sorted in a format according to a predetermined rule. (Model symbol)

[0052] Furthermore, the restriction conditions can be set manually by the user through the setting unit 43, or by preparing a dedicated model symbol and reading the model symbol to set the restriction conditions based on the result of the reading operation of the model symbol. For example, by preparing a model barcode as an example of a model symbol and reading the model barcode, the restriction conditions can be automatically set according to the type of the model barcode and the rules of the number of digits contained therein. In addition, brightness can be set based on the brightness of the image at the time of reading. This allows the user to read a previously prepared model code without having to set the restriction conditions individually, and the information set in the model code, such as the rules of the code type and the number of digits, can be automatically set as the restriction conditions in the setting unit 43, thereby reducing the labor required for setting.

[0053] In the setting unit 43, a plurality of different limiting conditions can be set. Also, a plurality of different limiting conditions that have been set can be saved in advance. The saved plurality of limiting conditions can be called up by the limiting condition selection unit, and one of the limiting conditions can be selected. That is, one of the saved plurality of limiting conditions is selected for the input window and set as the limiting condition. By linking or associating the input window with the limiting condition in this way, the work of setting different limiting conditions for a plurality of input windows can be simplified. An example of the limiting condition selection unit 60 that switches such limiting conditions is shown in FIG. 5. Here, six limiting conditions SET01 to SET06 can be registered in advance. Also, a limiting condition to be selected as an initial value may be set. In the example of FIG. 5, the limiting condition SET01 is set as the default limiting condition. Also, a default display indicating that it is the default limiting condition may be added. In the example of the limiting condition setting screen 70 shown in FIG. 7 to FIG. 9 described later, an icon with a black circle indicating that it is the "default" is displayed in the upper right corner of SET01, which is the default limiting condition. (Setting Restrictions)

[0054] As described above, the optical information reader 100 holds a plurality of limiting conditions in advance. The limiting conditions can be held up to an upper limit, such as 10 or 20. In this example, 10 limiting conditions can be saved, from SET01 to SET10. Furthermore, the user can arbitrarily set each limiting condition. For example, SET01 can be a standard operation, SET02 can be a setting limited to a specific code type, and SET03 can be a setting for reading multiple codes at once. Furthermore, the limiting conditions once set can be individually customized. [Optical information reading method]

[0055] The optical information reading method according to the present embodiment includes a step of setting, by a setting unit, a restriction condition for input target data to be input to an arbitrary input target window among a plurality of input windows constituting a user application displayed on the display unit; a step of selecting, by an operation unit 32, an input target window to be the input target from the plurality of input windows displayed on the display unit; a step of converting reflected light from a symbol into an electrical signal and generating image data by an imaging unit; a step of judging, by a determination unit, whether or not information of a certain symbol included in the image data generated by the imaging unit satisfies the input condition; and a step of inputting information of the read symbol into the input target window by a reading unit when the determination unit judges that the information of the certain symbol satisfies the input condition.

[0056] The optical information reading method described above can be roughly divided into a method (setting method) for setting input conditions in the optical information reading device 100 and a method (reading method) for actually reading symbols using the optical information reading device 100 after the input conditions have been set. Here, the following will be explained separately: a setting method for setting reading conditions in advance so that the optical information reading device 100 according to this embodiment can properly read symbols, and a method for actually reading symbols using the optical information reading device 100 during operation (a method for inputting input target data into an input window). (How to set up)

[0057] The method for setting the limiting conditions is further broadly divided into a process of setting and saving a plurality of limiting conditions in advance (a method for setting limiting conditions) and a process of assigning one of the plurality of set limiting conditions to one of a plurality of input windows (a method for assigning limiting conditions). The processes will be described below in order. (How to set restrictions)

[0058] A method for setting and saving a plurality of limiting conditions will be described below with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 6 and Figs. 7 to 21. Figs. 7 to 9 show examples of a limiting condition setting screen 70, which is one aspect of the setting unit 43 for setting limiting conditions. When the screen in Fig. 7 is scrolled down, it switches to the screens in Figs. 8 and 9 in turn.

[0059] First, in step S601, the number of the restriction condition is set. A number is assigned to each restriction condition in advance so that multiple restriction conditions can be set. For example, ten restriction conditions, SET01 to SET10, can be stored in the restriction condition storage unit 53 in FIG. 2. In the example of the restriction condition setting screen 70 in FIG. 7 to FIG. 8, the restriction condition numbers SET01 to SET10 can be selected in advance, and the state in which the restriction condition SET01 is selected as the restriction condition to be set is shown. The restriction condition numbers SET01 to SET10 are displayed in the upper row in the form of tabs, and by selecting a desired restriction condition number, each restriction item of the corresponding restriction condition number can be set or edited. Note that in this example, the configuration is such that one of the restriction condition numbers assigned in advance is selected, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration, and for example, the user may set an arbitrary restriction condition number. In addition, the name of the assigned setting condition number may be changed by the user. Furthermore, the restriction condition number is not limited to a number, i.e., a numerical value, but may be a character string such as a character string of letters or symbols, or a combination of a numerical value and a character. In the example of the limiting condition setting screen 70 shown in FIG. 7 etc., the limiting condition number is configured by a combination of alphabetical characters and numerical values, such as SET01.

[0060] Next, in step S602, a desired restriction item is selected from among a plurality of restriction items constituting the restriction condition. Then, in step S603, the selected restriction item is set. The restriction items include reading parameters related to symbol reading, read code, data output, and operation at the time of reading. In the examples of Figs. 7 to 9, the reading parameters include trigger setting, target setting, code collection setting, and decode setting. The read code includes read code type and code parameter. The data output includes format setting and output setting. The read operation includes processing when reading is successful, processing when reading is unsuccessful, and data output setting. The application information indicates the version information of the user application. In these figures, when the corresponding restriction item is pressed, the screen transitions to a setting screen related to the selected restriction item. For example, when the "trigger setting" column 71 is pressed in Fig. 7, the screen switches to the trigger setting screen 90 in Fig. 10. In the trigger setting screen 90, the trigger mode and reading timeout can be set. As the trigger mode, you can select standard (a trigger is issued when the trigger key 31 is pressed), auto-off (the trigger is automatically turned off a specified time after the trigger key 31 is pressed), release and read (a trigger is issued when the trigger key 31 is pressed and also when the trigger key 31 is released), etc. As for the read timeout, you can specify the time as a number such as 25 seconds, or select from a list of options.

[0061] In addition, when the "target setting" field 72 in FIG. 7 is pressed, the screen switches to the target setting screen 110 in FIG. 11A. In the target setting screen 110, the aimer target, the decode field of view, the decode distance (specified by a numerical value such as 4 m, or selected from options), and the data format can be set. As the aimer target, invalid, the aimer center, the aimer horizontal line, and the like can be specified. In the aimer center, reading starts when the center of the aiming light overlaps a symbol such as a barcode. In the aimer horizontal line, reading starts when the horizontal line of the aiming light overlaps a symbol. On the other hand, in the decode field of view, standard, narrow (1D), narrow (2D), and the like can be selected. When narrow (1D) is selected, the horizontally elongated area (indicated by a dashed line in the figure) that passes through the center of the aiming light AL as shown in FIG. 11B is set as the read target area SA. When narrow (2D) is selected, the area (indicated by a dashed line in the figure) that passes through the center of the aiming light AL as shown in FIG. 11C is set as the read target area SA. Furthermore, as a data format, a reading condition is set such that reading is started only when the first letter of the information contained in the symbol is A (such as five-digit data starting with A, such as A****).

[0062] Furthermore, by pressing the "Code collection settings" column 73 in Fig. 7, the screen switches to a code collection settings screen 120 in Fig. 12. In the code collection settings screen 120, the collection method (accumulation collection or batch collection), the number of codes (specify the number numerically, such as 1, or select from the options), the code search timeout time (specify the time numerically, such as 200 ms, or select from the options), and so on can be set. A check is made every time the code search timeout time is set to see if there is a new symbol. If the code search timeout time is long, decoding will continue to be attempted from one image. On the other hand, if the code search timeout time is short, decoding will be abandoned after a short time and a transition will be made to the next image.

[0063] Furthermore, when the "decode setting" column 74 in Fig. 7 is pressed, the decode setting screen 130, 140 in Fig. 13 and Fig. 14 is displayed. Fig. 14 shows the decode setting screen 140 obtained by scrolling Fig. 13 downward. In these decode setting screens 130, 140, it is possible to set black and white inversion (black on white background / white on black background / automatic switching), mirror image inversion (disabled / enabled), camera switching (scan camera / color camera / scan camera + color camera), illumination LED (disabled / all on / partially on one side), reading level (standard / thought), filter setting (disabled / enabled), number of matches (prescribed by a numerical value such as 1 time or selected from options), etc. Depending on the black and white inversion setting, the algorithm for extracting an edge pattern from a symbol in the reading unit 42 is changed.

[0064] In addition, in camera switching, it is possible to select only the first imaging unit 10 which is a scan camera, only the second imaging unit which is a color camera, or switching between a scan camera and a color camera, i.e., switching between the first imaging unit 10 and the second imaging unit 20. By selecting a scan camera + color camera in camera switching, switching control from the first imaging unit 10 to the second imaging unit 20 according to the conditions described in this embodiment is executed. In addition, when a scan camera or a color camera is selected in camera switching, such switching control from the first imaging unit 10 to the second imaging unit 20 is not executed, and imaging by either imaging unit is fixed.

[0065] Furthermore, for the lighting LED, the brightness settings such as the brightness of the lighting light can be set. For example, the LEDs that make up the lighting unit can be switched between enabled and disabled. The brightness settings may also include the number and amount of lighting lights, as well as settings on the imaging unit side, such as the shutter speed and aperture.

[0066] Furthermore, the number of matches can be set within the range of, for example, 1 to 5. If the reading is repeated multiple times and the obtained symbol information does not return the same result the number of times specified by the number of matches, it is determined that the data has not been read.

[0067] Pressing the "Read code type" field 75 in FIG. 8 switches to a read code type setting screen 150 in FIG. 15. In the read code type setting screen 150, a readable code type is selected. In the example of FIG. 15, a list of readable code types is displayed, and a check box is used to select. In this example, UPC / EAN / JAN, Code128, Code39, ITF, GS1DataBar, Datamatrix, OCR, etc. are listed as options. Pressing the "Code parameter type" field 76 in FIG. 8 switches to a code parameter type setting screen 160 in FIG. 16A. In the code parameter type setting screen 160, the reading parameters for each selected code type are set. For example, the initial value, margin settings, etc. for UPC / EAN / JAN, the initial value, margin settings, code digits settings, etc. for Code128, the initial value, margin settings, code digits settings, etc. for Code39, the initial value, margin settings, code digits settings, etc. for ITF, the initial value, margin settings, code digits settings, etc. for GS1DataBar, the initial value, code digits settings, etc. for Datamatrix, the initial value, minimum digits and maximum digits of the code, etc. are set. The margin settings specify how much margin to set before and after a symbol such as a barcode. Furthermore, pressing the "format settings" field 77 in FIG. 8 switches to a format setting screen 170 in FIG. 17. In the format setting screen 170, the cut-out setting (disabled / enabled), hexadecimal conversion (disabled / enabled), prefix AIM ID (disabled / enabled), prefix, suffix, encoding, etc. are set. For example, when Code128 is selected as the code parameter, a code parameter setting screen 160B as shown in FIG. 16B is displayed, and detailed settings can be made. With prefixes and suffixes, specified information is added to the beginning or end of the information that has been read. For example, specific information such as "A" can be added to the beginning or end of the information that has been read. With output settings, for example, output information for the enter key or tab key can be added to the end of the input data that has been read. Furthermore, when the "output settings" field 78 in FIG. 8 is pressed, the output settings screen 180 in FIG. 18A is displayed.In the output setting screen 180, the keyboard output (disabled / enabled), terminator (none / Enter key / Tab key), key event delay (specify the time numerically, such as 0 ms, or select from options), output method (whether to separate with commas, etc.), code output order (alphabetical order / reading order / read coordinate order), data type, etc. are set. For example, when the terminator is set, pressing the "Terminator" field on the output setting screen 180 in FIG. 18A displays a terminator setting screen 180B shown in FIG. 18B. From this terminator setting screen 180B, the terminator can be set, for example, so that output information such as enter, tab, control, editor start, or a combination of these is added to the end of the read input data.

[0068] In addition, in the example of Fig. 8, an "OCR Settings" field for setting OCR may be provided. Pressing the "OCR Settings" field switches to an OCR setting screen. In the OCR setting screen, settings such as the character string format and date format of the read target can be set.

[0069] As string format settings, it is possible to set a format that includes a specific symbol in the middle, such as ***@***, or to read only strings that start with a specific character, such as A***. Furthermore, as output settings, it may be possible to set whether or not to include symbols or spaces in the output characters.

[0070] The date format can be set to the minimum date, maximum date, whether to use a slash, period, hyphen, space, or string such as "year" and "month" as a date separator, or whether to use no date separator at all. In addition, it may be possible to set the date format to year / month / day or month / day / day, and whether to read a two-digit year display, a one-digit month / day display, or an age-based month display.

[0071] 9, when the "successful reading" field 79 is pressed, the screen switches to a successful reading setting screen 190 in FIG. 19. When the "unsuccessful reading" field 80 is pressed, the screen switches to a failed reading setting screen 200 in FIG. 20. When the "data output" field 81 is pressed, the screen switches to a data output setting screen 210 in FIG. 21. On the successful reading setting screen 190, the failed reading setting screen 200, and the data output setting screen 210, the sound (buzzer / disabled), the scale (specified numerically, such as 16 scales, or selected from options), the vibrator (disabled / enabled), the LED (disabled / enabled), and the like can be set. On the successful reading setting screen 190 and the failed reading setting screen 200, the ON time and OFF time (specified numerically, such as 100 ms, or selected from options) can also be set.

[0072] When the desired restriction items have been set in this manner, in step S604 of FIG. 6, it is determined whether there are any other restriction items to be set. If there are other restriction items to be set, the process returns to step S602 to select the restriction items. Then, when the setting of the restriction items to be set is completed, the process proceeds to step S605, and the restriction conditions of the restriction condition number for which the setting has been completed are stored in the restriction condition storage unit 53 of FIG. 2. Then, the process proceeds to step S606, and it is determined whether there are any other restriction condition numbers to be set. If there are other restriction condition numbers to be set, the process returns to step S601 and the above process is repeated. On the other hand, if the setting has been completed for all restriction condition numbers, the process ends. In this manner, a plurality of restriction conditions are set. (How to assign restrictions)

[0073] When a plurality of restriction conditions are set as described above, next, any of the set plurality of restriction conditions is assigned to a plurality of input windows constituting a user application. Hereinafter, a method of assigning a restriction condition will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 22 and FIGS. 23 to 28. First, in step S2201, a user application UA ​​to which a restriction condition is to be assigned is selected. Here, the hamburger icon 82 provided in the upper right of the restriction condition setting screen 70 of FIG. 7 is clicked, and in a state in which a list box 83 is displayed as shown in FIG. 23, the "Auto setting switch" button 84 is pressed. As a result, an input box assignment list screen 220 is displayed as shown in FIG. 24. In the input box assignment list screen 220, input windows to which a restriction condition has been assigned are displayed in a list. Here, a user program name 221 and text information 222 of the input window are displayed together with a restriction condition number 223. In this screen, to assign a new input window and a restriction condition, that is, to add a new assignment to the input box assignment list screen 220, the add button 224 at the lower right is pressed. As a result, an application selection screen 230 of FIG. 25 is displayed. A list of user applications is displayed on the application selection screen 230. The user selects a desired user application to which he / she wishes to assign a limiting condition. In this example, "DemoSample" is selected as the user application.

[0074] Next, in step S2202, an input window of a user application to which a limiting condition is to be assigned is selected. First, when "DemoSample" is selected as a user application on the application selection screen 230 in FIG. 25, the selected user application UA ​​is started as shown in FIG. 26, and an input window selection screen 240 in which an input window can be selected is displayed. In this state, the user selects an input window to which a limiting condition is to be assigned as a window to be set. For example, a desired input window is tapped on the touch panel of the display unit 3 to bring it into focus. Here, Location is selected as the window to be set from among three input windows, Location, Product, and Qty. In this state, when the "APPLY" button 241 provided at the bottom right of FIG. 26 is pressed, a limiting condition selection screen 250 shown in FIG. 27 is displayed.

[0075] Then, in step S2203, the desired limiting condition is selected. Here, the user is prompted to select one of the limiting conditions displayed in a list on the limiting condition selection screen 250 in FIG. 27. In the example of FIG. 27, the set limiting conditions are displayed in a list in order of limiting condition number, and one of them can be selected using a radio button. When the user selects one of the limiting conditions, the selected limiting condition is assigned to the input window, and the association is saved in the assignment saving unit 54 in FIG. 2 (step S2204). Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 28, the input box assignment list screen 220 is updated, and the newly registered input window assignment (setting set #3 at the bottom in the figure) is added to the list.

[0076] Furthermore, in step S2205, it is determined whether or not to perform another assignment. If assignment to another input window is to be performed, the process returns to step S2201 and the above process is repeated. Then, after all assignments to each input window are completed, the process ends. In this manner, the desired limiting conditions can be assigned to the required input windows. (ID information, text information)

[0077] Here, as a method for identifying an input window, a screen name, ID information, text information, etc. can be used. Here, the ID information is identification information of an input window that is uniquely set within an application screen. A numerical value or a character string can be used for the ID information. The text information is also called hint text, etc., and is character information that can be perceived by a user. For example, in the example of FIG. 3, the input window IW1 displays Location as text information, the input window IW2 displays Product, and the input window IW3 displays Qty as text information. Using the text information, which is character information, as a clue, a user can visually distinguish the input window. For example, depending on the user application, it is assumed that the ID information is not set or that the ID information is the same as the text information, and therefore, in this embodiment, the input window is identified based on four information: the application name, the application screen name, the ID information, and the text information. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration, and the input window may be identified based on, for example, only the text information or only the ID information. Also, the ID information may be given priority to distinguish the input window, and the text information may be used when the input window cannot be identified based on the ID information alone.

[0078] Examples of ID information and text information will be described with reference to Figs. 29 to 34. Fig. 29 shows an input window setting list screen 260 showing a list of input windows, in which three input windows are displayed. For example, when the pen-shaped icon 261 in Fig. 29 is tapped in order to display an input window detail information display screen for the input window IW1 focused on in the user application shown in Fig. 26, the screen becomes as shown in Fig. 30. An input window detail information display screen 270A in Fig. 30 has an application name display field 271, an application screen name display field 272, an ID information display field 273, and a text information display field 274 as detailed information of the input window IW1. In each display field, the application name (com.example.demonsample), the application screen name (com.example.demonsample.MainActivity), ID information (165), and text information (Location) are displayed, respectively. In addition, when the input window detailed information display screen 270B of FIG. 32 is displayed for the input window IW2 that is focused on in the user application UA ​​shown in FIG. 31, the following detailed information of the input window IW2 is displayed in the application name display field 271: the application screen name (com.example.demonsample) in the application screen name display field 272: the ID information (168) in the ID information display field 273; and the text information (Product) in the text information display field 274. Furthermore, when the input window detailed information display screen 270C of FIG. 34 is displayed for the input window IW3 that is focused on in the user application UA ​​shown in FIG. 33, the following detailed information of the input window IW3 is displayed in the application name display field 271: the application screen name (com.example.demonsample) in the application screen name display field 272: the ID information (171) in the ID information display field 273; and text information (Qty) in the text information display field 274.30, 32, and 34, the application name and application screen name are the same, so they cannot be distinguished by this information alone. For this reason, they are distinguished by using the ID information and text information as described above. (How to enter data into the input window)

[0079] In the above manner, by allocating the restriction conditions to the input window for the user application, it becomes possible to properly input the information of the read symbol when inputting into each input window during operation of the optical information reader 100, and it is possible to detect input that does not match the set restriction conditions and prevent misreading. Hereinafter, a procedure for switching the restriction conditions according to the focused input window during actual operation of the optical information reader 100, that is, when inputting the information of the symbol read by the optical information reader 100 as input target data into each input window of the user application, will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. 35. Here, an example is shown in which the value of the symbol read by the optical information reader 100 is input as input target data into the input window or input box of the user application UA ​​in FIG. 3. First, in step S3501, the presence or absence of a user action such as tapping the screen is determined. If no user video is detected, the operation of step S3501 is repeated and a standby state is entered.

[0080] When a user action is detected, the process proceeds to step S3502, where it is determined whether an input window has been selected. Here, it is determined whether the form touches any of a plurality of input windows on the user interface, such as the Location or Product input windows in Fig. 3 and Fig. 4. If none of the input windows are focused, as in Fig. 3, the process returns to step S3501 and the above process is repeated.

[0081] On the other hand, if the input window is focused as shown in FIG. 4, the process proceeds to step S3503 to determine whether or not the trigger key is pressed. If the trigger key is not pressed, the process returns to step S3501 to repeat the above process. If the trigger key is pressed, the process proceeds to step S3504 to obtain information about the focused input window. Here, the input window information is the type of user application, the type of screen, etc. Then, the process proceeds to step S3505 to determine whether or not the input window and its screen are registered. Here, it is determined whether or not a limiting condition is registered for the focused input window. Here, if the input window is not a registered input window or is not the screen of the input window, that is, if a registered input window is not focused, the process proceeds to step S3510 to execute a reading operation with default settings and end the process. In this way, for an input window for which a specific limiting condition is not executed by the user, the limiting condition is executed with the default limiting condition. In the example of FIG. 7 and the like described above, the limiting condition of SET01 is set as the default.

[0082] In addition, when the input window with registered restriction conditions is not focused, the reading operation may be performed according to common settings, which are restriction conditions commonly assigned to the user applications UA, instead of the reading operation with the default settings. For example, input conditions, operating conditions, and output conditions may be determined in advance as common settings for the user applications, and when a specific restriction condition is assigned to the input window, the reading operation may be performed according to the specific restriction condition, and when a specific restriction condition is not assigned to the input window, the operating conditions may be performed according to the common settings.

[0083] On the other hand, if it is determined that the input window is a registered input window and that it is the screen of that input window, the process proceeds to step S3506, where it is determined whether or not this input window has registered ID information. If it is registered ID information, the process proceeds to step S3507, where the restriction conditions are switched. That is, it is determined whether or not ID information is assigned to the focused input window, and if ID information is assigned, the input window and its restriction conditions can be linked by the ID information. On the other hand, if the ID information is not registered, the process proceeds to step S3509, where it is determined whether or not there is registered text information in the input window. For example, in the example of the input box information details display screen shown in FIG. 30, it is determined whether or not there is something equivalent to "Text information" corresponding to the input window. Then, if Text information is input as Location and a restriction condition corresponding to Location exists, the input window and its restriction conditions can be linked to the Text information.

[0084] If there is no such registered text information, the process proceeds to step S3510, where a read operation is performed with default settings and the process ends. On the other hand, if there is registered text information in step S3509, the process proceeds to step S3507, where the restriction conditions are similarly switched.

[0085] Then, in step S3508, a reading operation is started under the set restriction conditions. When the set restriction conditions are met, reading for that input target window is terminated. For example, as shown in FIG. 36, the value "Shelf101" read by optical information reader 100 is input as input target data into input window IW1 of Location, which is the input target window. Then, the process proceeds to step S3512, where it is determined whether there is an input window that has not been filled in, and if so, the process returns to step S3501 and the above process is repeated. When there are no more input windows that have not been filled in, that is, when input has been completed for all input windows that require input, the process is terminated.

[0086] In this way, the restriction conditions are registered in advance, and the input windows on the application screen are associated with the restriction conditions. Then, when an input window is selected by the user, operation is performed according to the restriction conditions linked to that input window. Furthermore, when the input window selected by the user is changed, operation is performed according to the restriction conditions linked to the new input target window. By limiting the code type, number of digits, reading operation, etc. for each input window in this way, it is possible to reduce misreading of unnecessary codes. [Embodiment 2]

[0087] In the above-mentioned embodiment 1, a method for improving productivity by enabling checking of symbol reading without increasing the burden on the user has been described. Meanwhile, as an optical information reading device and an optical information reading method according to embodiment 2, a method for easily performing the setting work for checking symbol reading will be described.

[0088] In the optical information reading device according to the second embodiment, it is possible to optimize some of the input parameters set as input conditions by reading an actual symbol, specifically, the symbol-dependent parameters which are parameters that depend on the symbol to be read. Furthermore, it is possible to link these optimized symbol-dependent parameters to a specific input window as described above. In this specification, the function of optimizing the symbol-dependent parameters by reading such a model symbol and allocating them to a specific input window is referred to as an auto-learning function.

[0089] Specifically, the multiple input windows that make up a user application each have different input items. For example, location numbers, product numbers, quantities, serial numbers, etc. When entering these items, symbols appropriate for each task must be read, but the code type, code size, and number of data digits often differ for each task. To prevent users from entering incorrect information in such applications, it was necessary to take measures such as limiting the code types that can be read in the user application or implementing a check program on the server to determine errors.

[0090] However, implementing such a program is costly. Also, if you want to limit the code types that can be read, you need to set the user application individually according to the business purpose, which is cumbersome. On the other hand, if you do not set the code type limit on the user application side, the optical information reader will be operated with a general-purpose setting that allows it to read various types of codes. However, in addition to the possibility of mistakes such as reading the wrong code, there are problems with the reading process being redundant and slowing down the process.

[0091] On the other hand, in the optical information reading device according to the present embodiment, the restriction conditions may be set by actually reading a symbol for each of the above-mentioned input target windows. After the end of the auto-learning mode, the set restriction conditions may be automatically switched according to the work flow. This allows the reading settings to be optimized by operations following the work flow without going through complicated setting procedures. As a result, it is possible to suppress work errors that result in reading unnecessary codes without prior preparation such as a program, and to improve work efficiency by improving the reading speed. As the symbol here, a symbol attached to an object to be read such as an actual work may be used. In particular, by reading the real symbol with a user application, it is possible to perform appropriate settings according to the actual purpose, usage environment, etc.

[0092] In addition, the operation mode can be switched between a learning mode in which the settings are optimized by actually reading a symbol and a work mode during operation, which makes it more convenient to use. For example, in a situation in which reading errors of symbols such as barcodes occur frequently due to factors such as changes in environmental light during actual operation, the operation mode can be temporarily switched to the learning mode to optimize the settings and perform fine tuning, thereby improving the success rate of reading the symbols. In addition, such switching of the operation mode may be performed automatically in addition to being performed manually by the user. For example, if a reading error is repeated a predetermined number of times or more, or if the continuous time of reading errors continues for a predetermined period of time or more, the operation mode may be automatically temporarily switched to the auto-learning mode, and the limiting conditions may be optimized, and then the operation mode may be restored to perform reading. With this method, it is possible to reset the reading settings when reading failures continue without bothering the user, improving convenience.

[0093] Here, an optical information reading device having an auto-learning function is shown in the functional block diagram of FIG. 37 as a second embodiment. The same members as those in the above-mentioned embodiment are given the same reference numerals and detailed description is omitted as appropriate. The optical information reading device 200 shown in this figure includes an imaging unit 10, a reading unit 42, a display unit 3, an operation unit 32, a condition generating unit 45, a setting unit 43, a determination unit 44, and an output unit 49. The imaging unit 10 converts reflected light from a symbol to be read into an electrical signal and generates image data. The reading unit 42 reads information of the symbol based on the image data generated by the imaging unit 10. The display unit 3 displays a plurality of input windows. The operation unit 32 selects an input target window to be input from a plurality of input windows displayed on the display unit 3. The operation by the operation unit 32 may be a key operation using an operation key or a touch panel operation of the display unit 3.

[0094] The optical information reading device 200 according to the second embodiment sets constraints on the information to be input into the input window according to the information of the symbol that has actually been read, thereby making it possible to easily perform the setting work for checking the reading of the symbol.

[0095] Specifically, the optical information reading device 200 shown in Fig. 37 sets, in the setting unit 43, a restriction condition for input target data to be input to an input target window selected by the operation unit 32. The restriction condition may include, for example, an input condition that restricts the input of input target information to the input window.

[0096] Examples of the input conditions include the code type of the symbol, the number of digits, the reading mode, the number of reads, etc. Among the input conditions, parameters that change depending on the symbol, such as the code type, the number of digits, and parameters for each code type, may be referred to as symbol-dependent parameters.

[0097] The imaging unit 10 converts reflected light from a symbol to be read into an electrical signal and generates image data. The reading unit 42 reads information on the symbol based on the image data generated by the imaging unit 10. The condition generating unit 45 generates symbol-dependent parameters according to information included in the symbol read by the reading unit 42 when auto-learning is executed. Specifically, the condition generating unit 45 specifies the code type and the number of digits of the read symbol from the information included in the symbol read by the reading unit 42, and stores the specified code type and number of digits as symbol-dependent parameters. The setting unit 43 sets the input conditions including the symbol-dependent parameters generated by the condition generating unit 45 as restrictive conditions in association with an input window on the application screen. When a certain input window is selected by the user as an input target window, the operation is performed according to the setting associated with the input target window. When the input window selected by the user is changed, the operation is performed according to the restrictive conditions associated with the changed input target window.

[0098] When the optical information reader 200 operates according to the settings associated with the input target window, the determination unit 44 determines whether or not information on a symbol included in the image data generated by the imaging unit 10 satisfies the restriction condition. The reading unit 42 is configured to input information on the read symbol into the input target window when the determination unit 44 determines that information on the symbol satisfies the restriction condition. With this configuration, it is possible to reduce misreading of unnecessary symbols by limiting the symbol conditions for each input window, such as the code type and the number of digits. Furthermore, by generating symbol-dependent parameters from information included in the symbol read by the reading unit, it is possible to optimize the restriction condition without going through complicated setting procedures. As a result, it is possible to suppress operational mistakes of reading unnecessary codes without prior preparation such as a program, and to improve operational efficiency by improving the reading speed.

[0099] Hereinafter, the auto-learning method according to this embodiment will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. 38. Here, it is assumed that the auto-learning mode has already been selected. First, in step S3801, it is determined whether or not there has been a user action. Specifically, it is determined whether or not there has been an action by the user, such as tapping the screen, and if there has been no action, it is put into a standby state in which step S3801 is repeated. In this S3801, the selection of the input window to be set from among multiple input windows is accepted. Then, if a user action is detected, the process proceeds to step S3802, and it is determined whether or not the trigger key has been pressed. If the trigger key is not pressed, the process returns to step S3801 and the above process is repeated. On the other hand, if the trigger key is pressed, the process proceeds to step S3803, and the selected input window information is acquired. Here, information that specifies which input window on which application the setting target window, which is the input window selected from among multiple input windows, is is acquired as input window information. Examples of the information specified here include the screen name and ID information of the application. Then, in step S3804, it is determined whether or not a restriction condition has been assigned to the input window. Here, it is determined whether or not a limiting condition has already been assigned to the window to be set. For example, it is determined whether or not there is a limiting condition linked to the input window in either the temporary save / full save (details will be described later) limiting condition group. If it has already been assigned, in step S3805, the process switches to the assigned limiting condition and proceeds to step S3807. On the other hand, if it has not been assigned, in step S3806, it is determined whether or not the tuning number is equal to or less than the upper limit. If the tuning number is equal to or less than the upper limit, the process proceeds to step S3807. On the other hand, if it is not equal to or less than the upper limit, that is, if the upper limit has been reached, the process returns to step S3801 and repeats the above process. Here, the tuning number is the number of input windows that have already been assigned. In this example, if the tuning number exceeds the upper limit, which is the maximum number that can be assigned, new memory cannot be assigned, so auto-learning is stopped.However, even if the number of tunings has reached the upper limit, it may be possible to perform additional learning for each input window by overwriting the settings, for example.

[0100] In step S3807, the symbol-dependent parameters are switched to symbol-dependent parameters for learning. The symbol-dependent parameters are settings that are optimized according to the read symbol, and may include the code type, number of digits, and code parameters among the input conditions. For example, if the answer is YES in step S3804, only the "symbol-dependent parameters" among the already set restrictions are switched.

[0101] The symbol-dependent parameters for learning are settings that expand the symbol-dependent parameters so that symbols such as codes with various patterns can be read. In this way, the symbol-dependent parameters for learning are set as highly versatile limiting conditions that enable a wide range of symbols to be read, so that the settings can be flexibly adapted and optimized according to the actual symbols. For example, the parameter values ​​of the code type and number of digits of the symbol, etc., are changed from settings that are limited or specialized for reading a specific type of code or a code with a specific number of digits, to non-restrictive, general-purpose values. As an example, the parameter values ​​of the symbol-dependent parameters for learning are set to the code type of the symbol as "all valid", the number of digits as "read all (no limit)", and the code parameter as "ON as much as possible". With such settings, it takes time to read one symbol, but it becomes possible to read a wide range of symbols. The symbol-dependent parameters for learning may be configured to be automatically set or manually changed by the user.

[0102] Then, in step S3808, the symbol reading operation is started. Here, an actual symbol that is actually to be read during operation is used. Then, in step S3809, it is determined whether or not reading was successful. If reading was unsuccessful, the process returns to step S3801 and the above process is repeated. On the other hand, if reading was successful, the process proceeds to step S3810 and information on the successfully read code is obtained. Examples of code information here include the code type, number of digits, and parameters for each code type, such as whether the code type is a QR code, whether it is a square or a rectangle, etc.

[0103] Further, in step S3811, a symbol-dependent parameter is generated based on the acquired code information. Here, the symbol-dependent parameter is limited to a condition under which the read symbol can be read. For example, if the code type read in S3810 is Code128 and the number of digits is four, a symbol-dependent parameter is generated in which the code type is Code128 and the number of digits is limited to four. Then, in step S3812, it is determined whether a limiting condition has been assigned to the input window. Here, the assignment determination between the input window and the limiting condition is made by determining whether a limiting condition linked to the input window exists in either the temporary storage / full storage limiting condition group. If a limiting condition has been assigned to the input window, the process proceeds to step S3813, where the symbol-dependent parameter is merged with the assigned limiting condition, and the process proceeds to step S3815. Here, the merging of the symbol-dependent parameter can be performed by ORing two symbol-dependent parameters. That is, the symbol-dependent parameter is updated so that the newly read symbol can be added and read.

[0104] On the other hand, if the limiting condition has not been assigned to the input window in step S3812, the process proceeds to step S3814, where the limiting condition is assigned to the input window, and the process proceeds to step S3815. Then, in step S3815, the limiting condition is temporarily saved. Here, "temporarily saved" means a state in which the limiting condition is temporarily saved while learning is being executed, before actual registration. Then, in step S3816, it is determined whether or not the tuning end operation has been performed by the user. If the tuning end operation has not been performed, the process returns to step S3801 and the above processing is repeated. On the other hand, if the tuning end operation has been performed, the process proceeds to step S3817, where the temporarily saved limiting condition group is permanently saved, and the auto-learning process ends.

[0105] The above describes an example in which the user explicitly executes the auto-learning process during setup, but the auto-learning process may also be started automatically under certain conditions. For example, during operation, if reading of a symbol continues to fail for a certain period of time, the device automatically switches to learning mode. This makes it possible to reset the reading conditions to more appropriate conditions according to the actual symbol, thereby increasing the success rate of reading.

[0106] In the above example, the procedure for setting input conditions such as code type and number of digits by auto-learning has been described. However, the present invention can be configured to automatically set imaging conditions and lighting conditions as well. Here, as another example of auto-learning, the procedure for optimizing imaging parameters such as brightness conditions and decoding parameters such as symbol decoding settings by reading a symbol will be described based on the flowchart in FIG. 39. Here, it is also assumed that the auto-learning mode has already been selected. First, in step S3901, the presence or absence of a user action is determined. If there is no user action, the system enters a standby state in which step S3901 is repeated. On the other hand, if a user action is detected, the system proceeds to step S3902, where it determines whether or not a trigger key has been pressed. If the pressing of the trigger key is not detected, the system returns to step S3901 and repeats the above process. On the other hand, if the pressing of the trigger key is detected, the system proceeds to step S393, where the selected input window information is obtained.

[0107] Then, in step S3904, it is determined whether or not a limiting condition has been assigned to the input window. If a limiting condition has been assigned, in step S3905, the limiting condition is switched to the assigned limiting condition, and the process proceeds to step S3907. On the other hand, if no limiting condition has been assigned, in step S3906, it is determined whether the number of tunings is equal to or less than the upper limit. If the number of tunings is equal to or less than the upper limit, the process proceeds to step S3907, and if the upper limit has been reached, the process returns to step S3901 and the above process is repeated.

[0108] In step S3907, the symbol-dependent parameters are switched to symbol-dependent parameters for learning. The symbol-dependent parameters are settings that are optimized according to the read symbol, and may include decode settings in addition to the code type, number of digits, and code parameters. The decode settings may include black and white inversion, mirror image inversion, decode level, contrast threshold, etc. For example, if the answer is YES in step S3804, only the "symbol-dependent parameters" are switched among the set limiting conditions.

[0109] The symbol-dependent parameters for learning are settings that extend the code-dependent parameters so that symbols such as codes with various patterns can be read. In this way, the symbol-dependent parameters for learning are set as highly versatile input conditions that enable a wide range of symbols to be read, and can be flexibly adapted and optimized to settings according to actual symbols. For example, the parameter values ​​of the decode setting, the read code type, the code parameters, etc., are changed from settings that are limited or specialized for reading a specific type of code to non-limited, generic values. As an example, the parameter values ​​of the symbol-dependent parameters for learning are set as follows: the code type of the symbol is set to "all valid", the number of digits is set to "read all (no limit)", the code parameters are set to "ON as much as possible", the decode setting (black and white inversion) is set to "automatic", the decode setting (mirror inversion) is set to "automatic", the decode setting (decode level) is set to "consideration", and the contrast threshold is set to "low". By setting in this way, it takes time to read one symbol, but it becomes possible to read a wide range of symbols. The symbol-dependent parameters for learning may be configured to be set automatically or manually changed by the user.

[0110] Then, in step S3908, the operation of reading the symbol is started. Here again, the actual symbol that is to be actually read during operation is used as the symbol.

[0111] Furthermore, in step S3909, the imaging conditions are set. Here, multiple imaging condition candidates are set, and one of the imaging conditions is selected. Then, in step S3910, it is determined whether reading was successful. If reading was unsuccessful, the process proceeds to step S3911, where it is determined whether a cancel operation has been performed. If a cancel operation has been performed, the process returns to step S3901 and the above processing is repeated. On the other hand, if a cancel operation has not been performed, the process returns to step S3909, where the imaging conditions are changed to another one, and the same processing is repeated.

[0112] On the other hand, if the reading is successful in step S3910, the process proceeds to step S3912, and the successfully read code information is obtained. Then, in step S3913, it is determined whether or not the best imaging condition has been found. If the best imaging condition has been found, the process proceeds to step S3914. If the best imaging condition has not been found, the process returns to step S3909, and the same process is repeated by switching to a different imaging condition. In this manner, the best imaging condition is searched for. Here, the best imaging condition is, for example, a case where the reading ability does not improve for several consecutive times. Furthermore, it is also possible that the best imaging condition has not been found until the specified number of times is reached, and the parameter with the highest reading ability among the parameters obtained when the specified number of times is reached is set as the best imaging condition. Alternatively, after the specified number of times is reached, the process may be continued until the reading ability does not improve for several consecutive times, and the best imaging condition may be determined.

[0113] In the above manner, in steps S3909 to S3913, the imaging conditions are optimized. The imaging conditions may include brightness conditions, focus distance, camera type, color adjustment, and the like. As for the brightness conditions, reading is performed multiple times under the brightness conditions, and the brightness that can ensure the highest contrast is determined. In addition, in normal operation, the brightness is adjusted based on the set brightness. On the other hand, as for the focus distance, reading is performed multiple times under the focus conditions, and the focus position that can ensure the highest contrast is set. In addition, in normal operation, the focus is adjusted based on the set focus position. Furthermore, as for the camera type, imaging is performed using a scan camera and a color camera, and the optimal camera is selected based on the code size and contrast. Furthermore, as for the color adjustment, reading is performed by implementing several patterns of the method of converting each element of RGB into grayscale, and the adjustment method that can ensure the highest contrast is selected. In this manner, the optimal imaging conditions are set, and imaging conditions such as brightness condition of 128, focus distance of 40 cm, camera type of color camera, and color adjustment of red correction are set.

[0114] When the best imaging conditions are obtained in this way in step S3913, symbol-dependent parameters are generated based on the acquired code information and the imaging conditions at that time in step S3914. Here, the symbol-dependent parameters are restricted to conditions under which the read symbol can be read.

[0115] The code information here may include, in addition to the code type, number of digits, and parameters for each code type, whether the symbol is a black symbol on a white background or a white symbol on a black background (whether or not black and white inversion is required), whether the contrast is sufficient, whether it is a mirror image inversion, etc.

[0116] Then, in step S3915, it is determined whether or not a limiting condition has already been assigned to the input window. If a limiting condition has already been assigned to the input window, the process proceeds to step S3916, where the symbol-dependent parameters are merged with the assigned limiting condition, and the process proceeds to step S3918.

[0117] Here, the merging of symbol-dependent parameters may involve ORing two symbol-dependent parameters. For example, among the symbol-dependent parameters, the decode setting (black and white inversion) involves ORing two symbol-dependent parameters. Similarly, the decode setting (mirror image inversion) involves ORing. On the other hand, the decode setting (decode level) may be adjusted to match the higher parameter value. In other words, the symbol-dependent parameters are updated so that newly read symbols can also be added and read.

[0118] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S3915 that the limiting condition has not been assigned to the input window, the process proceeds to step S3917, where the limiting condition is assigned to the input window, and the process proceeds to step S3918. Then, in step S3918, the limiting condition is temporarily saved. Then, in step S3919, it is determined whether or not the tuning end operation has been performed by the user. If the tuning end operation has not been performed, the process returns to step S3901 and the above processing is repeated. On the other hand, if the tuning end operation has been performed, the process proceeds to step S3920, where the temporarily saved limiting condition group is permanently saved, and the auto-learning process ends. [Embodiment 3]

[0119] Also, the auto-learning mode may be switched according to the conditions during actual operation. Such an example will be described as an optical information reading device according to the third embodiment, based on the functional block diagram of FIG. 40. The same members as those in the above-mentioned embodiments are given the same reference numerals, and detailed description will be omitted as appropriate. In the optical information reading device 300 according to the third embodiment, an auto-learning process is executed at the time of setting, and during actual operation, symbols are read according to the limiting conditions set by the auto-learning process. As a result, in the optical information reading device according to this embodiment, the limiting conditions can be optimized by operations following the business flow, without going through complicated setting procedures. Furthermore, by setting the limiting conditions, reading of unnecessary symbols can be reduced.

[0120] 40, the optical information reading device 300 includes an imaging unit 10, a reading unit 42, a display unit 3, an operation unit 32, a mode switching unit 46, a condition generating unit 45, a setting unit 43, a determination unit 44, and an output unit 49. The mode switching unit 46 accepts an input from a user and switches between an auto-learning mode and an actual operation mode. (Mode switching unit 46)

[0121] When the mode switching unit 46 receives an instruction to switch to the auto-learning mode, the mode switching unit 46 switches to the auto-learning mode. In the auto-learning mode, the limiting conditions in which the symbol-dependent parameters are optimized are set through the reading of actual symbols. In the auto-learning mode, the imaging conditions may be further optimized.

[0122] When the mode switching unit 46 receives a mode switching input from the auto-learning mode to the actual operation mode, it switches to the actual operation mode. In the actual operation mode, it operates according to the limiting conditions set in the auto-learning mode. For example, when a limiting condition in which the number of digits is optimized is set, the determination unit 44 determines whether or not the number of digits of the symbol read by the reading unit 42 satisfies the limiting condition set for the input target window. Then, when the determination unit 44 determines that the number of digits of the symbol read satisfies the limiting condition, the reading unit 42 is configured to input information of the read symbol into the input target window. (Automatic mode switching)

[0123] Although the above describes an example in which the user explicitly executes the auto-learning process during setup, the auto-learning process may be automatically started under certain conditions. For example, when performing a symbol reading operation during operation, if reading failures continue for a certain period of time, the mode automatically switches to auto-learning mode. This makes it possible to reset the symbol-dependent parameters and imaging conditions to more appropriate conditions according to the actual symbol, thereby increasing the success rate of reading. (Changing settings after auto-learning)

[0124] It has been described that in the auto-learning process, the actual symbol is read, and the limiting conditions in which the symbol-dependent parameters are optimized and the optimized imaging conditions are set based on the information of the read symbol. In addition to being automatically optimized in this way, the user may be able to change the optimized settings later. This will be described based on the input condition setting screen 70' in FIG. 41. FIG. 41 shows the state in which the "Product" tab is displayed on the input condition setting screen 70' after auto-learning is executed. In this screen, a setting group such as a limiting condition group is referenced. For example, when the auto-learning function is executed for the "Product" input window, the setting number of the setting group is displayed as "Product" instead of "SET02" as shown in FIG. 41. This allows the user to easily determine which input box the setting is for. In addition, by displaying "Learned" in the "Code type" column 85, which indicates that the auto-learning function has been executed, the user can similarly recognize that the auto-learning function has been executed. Furthermore, if necessary, a desired setting can be selected from the "Trigger setting" column 71, the "Target setting" column 72, the "Code collection setting" column 73, etc., in the same procedure as that described in FIG. 7, and a series of setting items can be adjusted. (Color camera)

[0125] On the other hand, a photograph of the symbol used in auto-learning can be kept as a record. This will be described with reference to a learning result display screen 280 in Fig. 42. The learning result display screen 280 is a screen for confirming that auto-learning has been performed and the symbol used in this auto-learning. In the example of Fig. 42, the learning result display screen 280 has a learning symbol display field 281, which shows the optical images OI1 and OI2 used in auto-learning.

[0126] When learning is executed using one symbol when setting a limiting condition for an input window, learning symbol OI1 is displayed on learning result display screen 280. Also, when learning is executed using multiple symbols when setting a limiting condition for an input window, multiple learning symbols are displayed on learning result display screen 280. Here, when learning is executed using multiple symbols, for example, there is a case where an additional symbol is read and auto-learning is executed for an input window to which a limiting condition has already been assigned. [Industrial Applicability]

[0127] The optical information reading device, optical information reading method, optical information reading program, and computer-readable recording medium and equipment storing the same of the present invention can be suitably used in handy scanners, handy terminals, business PDAs, etc. used in warehouses, factories, stores, hospitals, etc. that read symbols such as barcodes and two-dimensional codes and register and verify data. [Explanation of symbols]

[0128] 100...Optical information reader 1. Imaging module 2. Housing 3...Display section 10...Imaging unit 11...Image sensor 12...Optical system 14…Lighting section 15…Aiming light irradiation unit 30…Key arrangement section 31...Trigger key 32...Operation unit 40...Control unit 42…Reading unit 43…Settings section 44…Judgment section 45…Condition generation section 46…Mode switching section 49...Output section 50…Communication interface 51…RAM 52...Storage section 53... Input condition storage section 54…Allocation Storage Section 60...Input condition selection section 70, 70'... Input condition setting screen 71..."Trigger setting" field 72…Targeting section 73…"Code collection settings" field 74…"Decode Settings" field 75…"Read code type" field 76…"Code parameter type" column 77…"Format Settings" column 78…"Output Settings" column 79…"Successful reading" column 80…"Read failure" column 81..."Data output" column 82…Hamburger icon 83...List box 84…"Auto setting switch" button 85…Code type column 90...Trigger setting screen 110…Target setting screen 120...Code collection setting screen 130, 140... Decode setting screen 150…Read code type setting screen 160, 160B...Code parameter type setting screen 170...Format setting screen 180...Output setting screen 180B…Terminator setting screen 190…Successful reading setting screen 200…Settings screen for when reading fails 210...Data output setting screen 220... Input box allocation list screen 221...User program name 222…Text information 223...Input condition number 224…Add button 230...Application selection screen 240...Input window selection screen 241…APPLY button 250...Input condition selection screen 260... Input window setting list screen 261…Pen icon 270A, 270B, 270C...Input window detailed information display screen 271...Application name display field 272...Application screen name display field 273…ID information display field 274...Text information display field 280…Learning results display screen 281…Learning code display field DA...Display area; HA...Grip area UA: User Application IW1~1W3: Input window AL…Aiming light SA…Reading area OI1, 0I2...Optical images

Claims

1. An optical information reading device for capturing an image of a symbol to be read, reading information of the symbol, and inputting the information into an input window, comprising: an imaging unit that converts light that is incident on the symbol and reflected by the symbol into an electrical signal to generate image data; a reading unit that reads information of a symbol based on image data generated by the imaging unit; A display unit having a plurality of input windows; an operation unit for selecting an input target window to be an input target from the plurality of input windows displayed on the display unit; a setting unit for setting input conditions for input data to be input to an input window selected by the operation unit; a determination unit that determines whether or not information of a symbol included in the image data generated by the imaging unit satisfies the input condition; Equipped with The reading unit is configured to input the information of the one symbol read into the input target window when the judgment unit judges that the information of the one symbol satisfies the input condition.

2. 2. The optical information reading device according to claim 1, The optical information reader, wherein the setting items set as the input conditions include at least one of a read code type of a symbol and a code parameter.

3. 3. The optical information reading device according to claim 1, the setting unit is configured to be able to set an operating condition that defines an operation of the imaging unit in association with an input window selected by the operation unit, The optical information reading device is configured such that the imaging unit executes imaging processing in accordance with operating conditions associated with an input target window selected as an input target from among a plurality of input windows by the operation unit.

4. 4. The optical information reading device according to claim 3, The operating conditions are: A trigger setting for setting a condition for starting an imaging process by the imaging unit; A target setting for setting the width of the field of view of the imaging unit; Code collection settings for setting the symbol collection method or the number of symbols to be collected; An optical information reading device including at least one of the above.

5. 5. The optical information reading device according to claim 3, further comprising: an output section for outputting data relating to the read information; The setting unit is Data addition settings to add specific data to the output data, Sort settings for sorting the data to be output The output condition including at least one of the above can be set in association with an input window selected by the operation unit, The output unit is configured to execute an output process in accordance with an output condition associated with an input target window selected as an input target from among a plurality of input windows by the operation unit.

6. 6. The optical information reading device according to claim 5, The display unit is configured to display at least one of a screen name, ID information, and text information set for each of the input windows so that a user can identify the multiple input windows when the setting unit sets any one of the multiple input conditions for each of the multiple input windows.

7. The optical information reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, the input conditions set by the setting unit include a code type of a symbol to be read, The reading unit is capable of switching a reading algorithm for reading symbols of a plurality of different code types for each code type of the symbol, The determination unit determines whether or not a symbol included in the image data generated by the imaging unit is a symbol to be read, according to the type of code type set by the setting unit; the reading unit is configured to identify a reading algorithm for reading the one symbol based on the type of code type included in the input conditions, and when the determination unit determines that the one symbol is the symbol to be read, read the one symbol in accordance with the identified reading algorithm.

8. The optical information reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, the input conditions set by the setting unit include rules for character strings of symbols to be read, the determination unit determines whether or not a rule for a character string included in a reading end condition set for the input window matches a rule for a character string included in information of a symbol read by the reading unit; The reading unit is an optical information reading device configured to input information about the read symbol into the input target window when it is determined that a character string rule included in a reading termination condition set for the input target window matches a character string rule included in information about the read symbol.

9. The optical information reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, The input conditions set by the setting unit include a code collection setting, the code collection setting includes a batch reading setting for reading a predetermined number of pieces of information, The optical information reading device is configured such that, when the batch reading setting is set, the reading unit continues one imaging process until reading of the information of the number of symbols included in the batch reading setting is completed.

10. 10. The optical information reading device according to claim 9, When a plurality of pieces of information are read, the optical information reader is configured to input a plurality of symbolic pieces of information into the input target window in accordance with an input rule set for the input target window.

11. 11. The optical information reading device according to claim 10, An optical information reading device, wherein an input rule set for the input target window is such that predetermined data is added to information read into the input target window.

12. 11. The optical information reading device according to claim 10, An optical information reading device in which an input rule set for the input target window changes a plurality of pieces of information read into the input target window into a predetermined format.

13. 4. The optical information reading device according to claim 3, The operating conditions set by the setting unit include a trigger setting, An optical information reading device configured to control image capture by the imaging unit in accordance with a trigger setting when a trigger setting is included in an operating condition set for an input target window.

14. The optical information reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, the operating conditions set by the setting unit include a setting of brightness when the image data is captured by the imaging unit, The optical information reading device is configured such that the determination unit determines whether or not a symbol included in image data generated by the imaging unit is a symbol to be read in accordance with a brightness setting set by the setting unit.

15. The optical information reading device according to claim 14, further comprising: an illumination unit for emitting illumination light when the image data including the symbol is captured by the imaging unit; the brightness setting set by the setting unit includes an illumination setting of the illumination unit when the image data is captured by the imaging unit, The optical information reading device is configured such that the determination unit sets the brightness of the illumination light of the illumination unit in accordance with the illumination setting set by the setting unit, and determines whether or not a symbol included in image data generated by the imaging unit is a symbol to be read.

16. The optical information reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, A plurality of input windows displayed on the display unit can be set to different settings, When an input target window is selected from a plurality of input windows by the operation unit, a setting associated with the input target window is specified, The optical information reading device is configured to perform an imaging process according to the specified settings.

17. The optical information reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, The optical information reading device is configured such that, by causing the reading section to read a predetermined model symbol, the setting section automatically sets input conditions in accordance with information contained in the model symbol.

18. The optical information reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 17, further comprising: a condition selection unit for selecting one of a plurality of different input conditions set and stored by the setting unit, The optical information reading device, wherein the setting section is configured to be able to set an input condition selected by the condition selection section from a plurality of different input conditions for the input window.

19. 19. An optical information reading device according to claim 18, The optical information reading device is configured so that a setting set list screen displaying a list of input conditions set for each of the plurality of input windows by the setting section can be displayed on the display section.

20. The optical information reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 19, The optical information reading device is configured such that the reading unit identifies a setting associated with the input target window, and determines whether the read information matches the setting.

21. The optical information reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 19, The optical information reading device is configured such that, when there is no setting associated with the input target window by the setting unit, the determination unit determines whether the read information satisfies a predetermined default input condition based on the default input condition.

22. An optical information reading method for capturing an image of a symbol to be read, reading information of the symbol, and inputting the information into an input target window, comprising: setting, in a setting unit, input conditions for input target data to be input to an arbitrary input target window among a plurality of input windows displayed on a display unit; selecting, by an operation unit, an input target window to be an input target from the plurality of input windows displayed on the display unit; converting light incident on the symbol and reflected by the symbol into an electrical signal, and generating image data in an imaging unit; a step of determining by a determination unit whether or not information of one symbol included in the image data generated by the imaging unit satisfies the input condition; inputting the information of the one symbol read into the input target window by a reading unit when the determining unit determines that the information of the one symbol satisfies the input condition; An optical information reading method comprising the steps of:

23. 23. The optical information reading method according to claim 22, The step of setting the input conditions includes: setting and saving a plurality of input conditions; assigning any one of the plurality of input conditions to any one of the plurality of input windows; An optical information reading method comprising the steps of:

24. 24. The optical information reading method according to claim 23, The step of setting and saving the plurality of input conditions includes: setting an input condition number; Prompting the user to select a desired setting item for the input condition of the input condition number; setting the selected setting item; storing the input conditions in which the setting items are set in an input condition storage unit; An optical information reading method comprising the steps of:

25. 25. The optical information reading method according to claim 23 or 24, a step of assigning any one of the plurality of input conditions to any one of the plurality of input windows, selecting a user application; selecting an input window that constitutes the selected user application; selecting an input condition to be assigned to the selected input window from a plurality of input conditions registered in advance; assigning the selected input condition to the selected input window; An optical information reading method comprising the steps of:

26. The optical information reading method according to any one of claims 23 to 25, The input conditions set in the step of setting the input conditions include a code type of the symbol, The optical information reading method further comprises: The step of determining by the determination unit whether or not the input condition satisfies the setting of the code type included in the input condition. a step of reading symbol information with the reading unit based on image data generated by the imaging unit, and determining whether the read symbol satisfies a code type setting included in the input conditions.

27. The optical information reading method according to any one of claims 23 to 25, The input conditions set in the step of setting the input conditions include a code type of the symbol, The optical information reading method further comprises: an optical information reading method including a step of determining by the determination unit whether or not a setting of a code type included in the input conditions is satisfied, and if it is determined that the setting of the code type included in the input conditions is satisfied, specifying a corresponding reading algorithm in accordance with the set code type, and reading symbol information with the reading unit based on the image data generated by the imaging unit in accordance with the specified algorithm.

28. An optical information reading program for use in a computer having a display unit for displaying information to a user, a setting unit for making settings related to an imaging process or a reading process, an operation unit for a user to perform setting operations, an imaging unit for performing said imaging process, a reading unit for performing said reading process, and a judgment unit for making judgments related to said reading process by said reading unit, the program capturing an image of a symbol to be read, reading information of the symbol, and inputting the information into an input target window, a function of setting, by the setting unit, input conditions for input target data to be input to an arbitrary input target window among a plurality of input windows displayed on the display unit; a function of selecting, by the operation unit, the input target window that is to be an input target from the plurality of input windows displayed on the display unit; A function of converting reflected light from a symbol into an electrical signal and generating image data in the imaging unit; a function of reading information of a symbol by the reading unit based on image data generated by the imaging unit; a function of determining, by the determination unit, whether or not information of one symbol included in the image data generated by the imaging unit satisfies the input condition; a function of inputting the information of the one symbol read into the input target window by the reading unit when the determining unit determines that the information of the one symbol satisfies the input condition; An optical information reading program to make this possible on a computer.

29. A computer-readable recording medium or storage device storing the program according to claim 28.

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