Printed materials and methods for manufacturing printed materials

Abstract

To provide a technique capable of efficiently arranging a plurality of code symbols.SOLUTION: A printed material according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a substrate, a first printed layer and a second printed layer. The first printed layer is formed on the substrate with a first coloring material that is not decolorable at a predetermined temperature and includes a first code symbol with recorded first information. The second printed layer is formed on the substrate with a second coloring material that is decolorable at a predetermined temperature so as to partly or entirely cover the first code symbol and includes a second code symbol with recorded second information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to printed matter and a method for manufacturing the printed matter.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in order to arrange two QR codes (registered trademark) on one printed matter, it has been necessary to arrange the two QR codes at a certain distance. This is to prevent a code reader from simultaneously recognizing the two QR codes.

[0003] For example, when arranging two QR codes of the same size on one printed matter, it is necessary to arrange the two QR codes at a distance of more than one QR code. When arranging two QR codes at a certain distance on one printed matter, the range required to arrange the two QR codes on the printed matter becomes wide.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a technique capable of efficiently arranging a plurality of code symbols.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The printed material of the embodiment comprises a substrate, a first printing layer, and a second printing layer. The first printing layer is formed on the substrate using a first colorant that does not fade at a predetermined temperature and includes a first code symbol on which first information is recorded. The second printing layer is formed on the substrate using a second colorant that fades at a predetermined temperature so as to cover part or all of the first code symbol and includes a second code symbol on which second information is recorded. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a plan view showing a first example of a printed material according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a plan view of a first example of a printed material according to the embodiment, where the second printed layer is in a decolorized state. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a plan view showing a second example of a printed material according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a plan view of a second example of the printed material according to the embodiment, where the second printed layer is in a decolorized state. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a plan view showing a third example of a printed material according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a plan view of a third example of the printed material according to the embodiment, where the second printed layer is in a decolorized state. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a perspective view illustrating an example configuration of a printing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the printing system according to this embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the manufacturing process of printed materials using the printing system according to this embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] [Embodiment] [Example Configuration] The embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0009] A first example of a printed material according to the embodiment will be described. Figure 1 is a plan view showing a first example of printed material P. The printed material P comprises a label LA, a first printed layer 1, and a second printed layer 2.

[0010] Label LA is a medium having a printable surface. Label LA is an example of a printable substrate. The substrate is not limited to a sheet-like Label LA made of paper or the like. The substrate may be a bag such as a paper bag, or a box such as a corrugated cardboard box.

[0011] The first printed layer 1 is a printed layer formed on the label LA using a first colorant. "On the label LA" means on the surface of the label LA. The first colorant is a colorant that does not fade at a predetermined temperature. For example, the first colorant is a non-fading ink that does not fade at a predetermined temperature.

[0012] The first printed layer 1 includes a first code symbol 11. The first code symbol 11 is an image formed directly on the label LA using a first colorant. The first code symbol 11 is a code symbol that records first information obtainable by a code reader. For example, the first code symbol 11 is a two-dimensional code symbol. Here, a QR code symbol composed of dark-colored cells and light-colored cells is used as an example of the first code symbol 11. The dark-colored cells are the parts formed on the label LA using the first colorant. The light-colored cells are the parts not formed on the label LA using the first colorant. A code reader is an example of an electronic device that has a camera or the like to read the code symbol and can acquire the information recorded in the code symbol. The electronic device may be a smartphone or the like that has the function of acquiring the information recorded in the code symbol.

[0013] The second printing layer 2 is a printing layer formed on the label LA such that it covers part or all of the first code symbol 11 with a second colorant. When the second printing layer 2 is in a colored state, the second printing layer 2 covers part or all of the first code symbol 11 in a manner that prevents the first information recorded in the first code symbol 11 from being acquired by a code reader. The manner in which the first information cannot be acquired by a code reader includes the inability of the code reader to read the first code symbol 11. The second colorant is a thermochromic colorant that has the property of disappearing at a predetermined temperature. For example, the second colorant is a decolorizing ink that has the property of disappearing at a predetermined temperature. In Figure 1, for explanatory purposes, the portion of the first code symbol 11 covered by the second printing layer 2 is shown with a dashed line. Depending on the density of the second printing layer 2, the portion of the first code symbol 11 covered by the second printing layer 2 may be completely invisible.

[0014] The second printing layer 2 includes a second code symbol 21. The second code symbol 21 is an image formed on the label LA by a second colorant. The second code symbol 21 is a code symbol that records second information obtainable by a code reader. For example, the second code symbol 21 is a two-dimensional code symbol. Here, a QR code symbol composed of dark cells and light cells is used as an example of the second code symbol 21. The dark cells are areas formed on the label LA by the second colorant. The light cells are areas not formed on the label LA by the second colorant. The second information is different from the first information.

[0015] In the first example, since the second code symbol 21 does not cover the first code symbol 11, it is an image formed directly on the label LA. The size of the second code symbol 21 may be the same as that of the first code symbol 11 or different from that of the first code symbol 11. The second code symbol 21 is formed on the label LA away from the first code symbol 11 so as not to overlap the first code symbol 11. The distance between the first code symbol 11 and the second code symbol 21 is greater than 0 cm. When the first code symbol 11 and the second code symbol 21 are of the same size, the distance between the first code symbol 11 and the second code symbol 21 may be less than the length of one side of the second code symbol 21.

[0016] The second printing layer 2 includes an image 22. The image 22 is an image different from the second code symbol 21. The image 22 is an image formed on the label LA by the second coloring material so as to cover part or all of the first code symbol 11. The portion of the image 22 that covers the first code symbol 11 by the second coloring material is formed by overlapping on the first code symbol 11. The portion of the image 22 that does not cover the first code symbol 11 by the second coloring material is formed directly on the label LA.

[0017] In the first example, the image 22 is located outside the outer edge of the second code symbol 21 so as not to overlap the second code symbol 21. When the image 22 is in a developed state, the image 22 covers part or all of the first code symbol 11 in a manner that the first information recorded in the first code symbol 11 cannot be acquired by the code reader. The image 22 may be a solid image formed entirely of the second coloring material inside the outer edge of the image 22. The image 22 may also be an image including a region not formed of the second coloring material in part inside the outer edge of the image 22. In this example, the image 22 is an image such as a pattern or a picture.

[0018] When the image 22 covers the entire first code symbol 11, the size of the image 22 may be the same as that of the first code symbol 11 or may be larger than the first code symbol 11. The image 22 may cover a part of the first code symbol 11 as follows. The image 22 may cover at least one of the three finder patterns included in the first code symbol 11. The finder pattern is used for the code reader to recognize the position of the first code symbol 11. The image 22 may cover at least a part of the area where the first information recorded in the first code symbol 11 is located. When the image 22 covers a part of the first code symbol 11, the size of the image 22 may be smaller than the first code symbol 11 or may be equal to or larger than the first code symbol 11. The image 22 may be composed of a plurality of images.

[0019] In the example shown in FIG. 1, the image 22 is a solid-color image formed of a second colorant for all of the inside of the outer edge of the image 22. The size of the image 22 is larger than the first code symbol 11. The image 22 covers the entire first code symbol 11.

[0020] In the printed matter P of the first example, the case where the second printing layer 2 is in a coloring state will be described. Since the image 22 is colored, it hides a part or all of the first code symbol 11. Since the code reader cannot read the first code symbol 11, it cannot obtain the first information recorded in the first code symbol 11. On the other hand, the second code symbol 21 is colored. Since the code reader can read the second code symbol 21, it can obtain the second information recorded in the second code symbol 21.

[0021] FIG. 2 is a plan view of the printed matter P in the first example when the second printing layer 2 is in a decoloring state. The state of the second printing layer 2 changes from a colored state to a decolorized state based on the environment in which the printed material P is placed reaching a predetermined temperature or higher. The state of the second printing layer 2 also changes from a colored state to a decolorized state based on heating the printed material P to a predetermined temperature or higher by a heater.

[0022] Since the second colorant decolorizes above a predetermined temperature, the second code symbol 21 and image 22 become decolorized. The code reader cannot read the second code symbol 21 and therefore cannot obtain the second information recorded in the second code symbol 21. On the other hand, as image 22 changes from a colored state to a decolorized state, the first code symbol 11 appears as illustrated in Figure 2. Since the first colorant does not decolorize even above a predetermined temperature, the first code symbol 11 remains colored. The code reader can read the first code symbol 11 and therefore can obtain the first information recorded in the first code symbol 11.

[0023] Furthermore, the state of the second printing layer 2 changes from a decolorized state to a colored state upon cooling. Since the state of the second printing layer 2 reversibly changes between a colored state and a decolorized state depending on the temperature, the printed material P can be reused.

[0024] According to the first example, the printed material P can be configured to allow a code reader to read either of two code symbols by using a first colorant and a second colorant. For example, the printed material P may be attached to a container, and the environment in which the container is placed may be inspected by checking which of the two code symbols can be read by a code reader upon delivery. For example, the printed material P may be heated to a predetermined temperature or higher by a heater when necessary, so that a code reader can read the second code symbol 21. This prevents the code reader from recognizing both code symbols simultaneously.

[0025] According to the first example, the printed material P can place the first code symbol 11 and the second code symbol 21 in close proximity. This allows the printed material P to concentrate the two code symbols in a narrow area, thus enabling efficient placement of the two code symbols. Since the label LA can be small, label LA waste can be reduced.

[0026] According to the first example, printed material P can have two code symbols placed at similar sizes. This allows a code reader to easily read either of the two code symbols.

[0027] A second example of a printed material according to the embodiment will be described. Figure 3 is a plan view showing a second example of printed material P. The second example differs from the first example in that the second code symbol 23 includes an empty area 3. The second example also differs from the first example in that an image 24, which is different from the second code symbol 23, is located inside the outer edge of the second code symbol 23.

[0028] The printed material P comprises a label LA, a first printed layer 1, and a second printed layer 2.

[0029] Label LA, like the first example, is a medium having a printable surface. The first printed layer 1 is a printed layer formed on the label LA using a first colorant, similar to the first example. The first printed layer 1 includes a first code symbol 12. The first code symbol 12 is an image formed directly on the label LA using a first colorant, similar to the first code symbol 11 in the first example. The first code symbol 12 is a code symbol that records first information obtainable by a code reader. For example, the first code symbol 12 is a two-dimensional code symbol. Here, a QR code symbol is used as an example of the first code symbol 12.

[0030] The second printing layer 2 is a printing layer formed on the label LA so as in the first example, that it covers part or all of the first code symbol 12 with a second colorant. When the second printing layer 2 is in a colored state, the second printing layer 2 covers part or all of the first code symbol 12 in a manner that prevents the first information recorded in the first code symbol 12 from being acquired by a code reader. In Figure 3, for illustrative purposes, the portion of the first code symbol 12 covered by the second printing layer 2 is shown with a dashed line. Depending on the density of the second printing layer 2, the portion of the first code symbol 12 covered by the second printing layer 2 may be completely invisible.

[0031] The second printing layer 2 includes a second code symbol 23. The second code symbol 23 is an image formed on the label LA using a second colorant, similar to the second code symbol 21 in the first example. The second code symbol 23 is a code symbol that records second information obtainable by a code reader. For example, the second code symbol 23 is a two-dimensional code symbol. A QR code symbol composed of dark and light colored cells will be used as an example of the second code symbol 23.

[0032] In the second example, the second code symbol 23 differs from the second code symbol 21 in the first example in that it includes an empty area 3. The empty area 3 is an area formed within the area where the second information contained in the second code symbol 23 is recorded, but where the second information is not recorded. The empty area 3 is an area that does not affect the second code symbol 23. The second code symbol 23 is an image formed on the label LA by the second colorant such that the first code symbol 12 is included in the empty area 3. Since the second code symbol 23 does not cover the first code symbol 12, it is an image formed directly on the label LA. The size of the second code symbol 23 is larger than that of the first code symbol 12. The size of the first code symbol 12 is the same as or smaller than the empty area 3.

[0033] The second printing layer 2 includes an image 24 in the empty area 3. Image 24 is a different image from the second code symbol 23. Image 24, like image 22 in the first example, is an image formed on the label LA with a second colorant so as to cover part or all of the first code symbol 12. The portion of image 24 that covers the first code symbol 12 with the second colorant is formed on top of the first code symbol 12. The portion of image 24 that does not cover the first code symbol 12 with the second colorant is formed directly on the label LA.

[0034] In the second example, image 24 is positioned within the empty area 3 so as not to overlap with the second code symbol 23. When image 24 is in a colored state, image 24 covers part or all of the first code symbol 12 in such a manner that the first information recorded in the first code symbol 12 cannot be obtained by the code reader. Image 24 may be a solid color image in which the entire area inside the outer edge of image 24 is formed with the second colorant. Image 24 may also be an image that includes an area inside the outer edge of image 24 that is not formed with the second colorant. In this example, image 24 is an image such as a pattern or a picture.

[0035] If image 24 covers the entirety of the first code symbol 12, the size of image 24 may be the same as the first code symbol 12 or larger than the first code symbol 12. Image 24 may cover a portion of the first code symbol 12 as follows: Image 24 may cover at least one of the three finder patterns included in the first code symbol 12. Image 24 may cover at least a portion of the area in which the first information included in the first code symbol 12 is recorded. If image 24 covers a portion of the first code symbol 12, the size of image 24 may be smaller than the first code symbol 12 or larger than the first code symbol 12. Image 24 may be composed of multiple images.

[0036] In the example shown in Figure 3, the size of the first code symbol 12 is smaller than the empty area 3. The size of image 24 is smaller than the empty area 3. Image 24 is a solid color image where the entire area inside the outer edge of image 24 is formed with the second colorant. The size of image 24 is larger than the first code symbol 12. Image 24 covers the entire first code symbol 12.

[0037] The second example describes the case where the second printing layer 2 is in a colored state in printed material P. Since image 24 is colored within the empty area 3, it obscures part or all of the first code symbol 12 within the empty area 3. The code reader cannot read the first code symbol 12 and therefore cannot obtain the first information recorded in the first code symbol 12. On the other hand, the second code symbol 23 is colored. The code reader can read the second code symbol 23 and therefore can obtain the second information recorded in the second code symbol 23.

[0038] Figure 4 is a plan view of the second example of printed material P when the second printed layer 2 is in a decolorized state.

[0039] Since the second colorant decolorizes above a predetermined temperature, the second code symbol 23 and image 24 become decolorized. The code reader cannot read the second code symbol 23, and therefore cannot obtain the second information recorded in the second code symbol 23. On the other hand, as image 24 changes from a colored state to a decolorized state, the first code symbol 12 appears as illustrated in Figure 4. Since the first colorant does not decolorize even above a predetermined temperature, the first code symbol 12 remains colored. The code reader can read the first code symbol 12, and therefore can obtain the first information recorded in the first code symbol 12.

[0040] According to the second example, the printed material P can be configured, similar to the first example, to allow a code reader to read either of the two code symbols by using a first colorant and a second colorant.

[0041] In the second example, the printed material P can position the first code symbol 12 inside the outer edge of the second code symbol 23. This allows the printed material P to concentrate the two code symbols into a narrow area, thus enabling efficient placement of the two code symbols. Since the label LA can be small, label LA waste can be reduced.

[0042] According to the second example, the printed material P can place the first code symbol 12 within the empty area 3 of the second code symbol 23. This allows the printed material P to place the first code symbol 13 inward from the outer edge of the second code symbol 25, with a size corresponding to the empty area 3.

[0043] A third example of a printed material according to the embodiment will be described. Figure 5 is a plan view showing a third example of printed material P. The third example differs from the first or second example in that the second print layer 2 does not contain an image different from the second code symbol 25.

[0044] The printed material P comprises a label LA, a first printed layer 1, and a second printed layer 2.

[0045] Label LA, like the first example, is a medium having a printable surface. The first printed layer 1 is a printed layer formed on the label LA using a first colorant, similar to the first example. The first printed layer 1 includes a first code symbol 13. The first code symbol 13 is an image formed directly on the label LA using a first colorant, similar to the first code symbol 11 in the first example. The first code symbol 13 is a code symbol that records first information obtainable by a code reader. For example, the first code symbol 13 is a two-dimensional code symbol. Here, a QR code symbol is used as an example of the first code symbol 13.

[0046] The second printing layer 2 is a printing layer formed on the label LA so as to cover part or all of the first code symbol 13 with a second colorant, similar to the first example. When the second printing layer 2 is in a colored state, the second printing layer 2 covers part or all of the first code symbol 13 in a manner that prevents the first information recorded in the first code symbol 13 from being acquired by a code reader. In Figure 5, for illustrative purposes, the portion of the first code symbol 13 covered by the second printing layer 2 is shown with a dashed line. Depending on the density of the second printing layer 2, the portion of the first code symbol 13 covered by the second printing layer 2 may be completely invisible.

[0047] The second printing layer 2 includes a second code symbol 25. The second code symbol 25 is an image formed on the label LA with a second colorant, similar to the second code symbol 21 in the first example. The second code symbol 25 is a code symbol that records second information obtainable by a code reader. For example, the second code symbol 25 is a two-dimensional code symbol. Here, a QR code symbol is used as an example of the second code symbol 25. The second code symbol 25 includes a finder pattern 251. The finder pattern 251 includes a first dark area 2511 composed of dark cells and a second dark area 2512 composed of dark cells. The first dark area 2511 is a rectangular area. The first dark area 2511 is an area entirely inside the outer edge of the first dark area 2511 that is formed with the second colorant. The second dark region 2512 is the region surrounding the first dark region 2511.

[0048] The second code symbol 25 is an image formed on label LA using a second colorant so as to cover part or all of the first code symbol 12. The size of the second code symbol 25 is larger than that of the first code symbol 13. When the second code symbol 25 is in a colored state, it covers part or all of the first code symbol 13 in a manner that prevents the first information recorded on the first code symbol 13 from being acquired by a code reader. The portion of the second code symbol 25 that covers the first code symbol 13 with the second colorant is formed on top of the first code symbol 13. The portion of the second code symbol 25 that does not cover the first code symbol 13 with the second colorant is formed directly on label LA.

[0049] The finder pattern 251 of the second code symbol 25 covers part or all of the first code symbol 12. For example, the first dark area 2511 of the finder pattern 251 covers part or all of the first code symbol 12. In the example shown in Figure 5, the size of the first dark area 2511 is the same as that of the first code symbol 13. The first dark area 2511 covers all of the first code symbol 12.

[0050] If the first dark area 2511 covers the entirety of the first code symbol 13, the size of the first dark area 2511 may be the same as the first code symbol 13, or it may be larger than the first code symbol 13. The first dark area 2511 may cover a portion of the first code symbol 11 as follows: The first dark area 2511 may cover at least one of the three finder patterns included in the first code symbol 13. The first dark area 2511 may cover at least a portion of the area in the first code symbol 13 where the first information is recorded.

[0051] The third example describes the case where the second printing layer 2 is in a colored state in the printed material P. Since the second code symbol 25 is colored, it obscures part or all of the first code symbol 13. The code reader cannot read the first code symbol 13, and therefore cannot obtain the first information recorded in the first code symbol 13. On the other hand, the code reader can read the second code symbol 25, and therefore can obtain the second information recorded in the second code symbol 25.

[0052] Figure 6 is a plan view of the third example of printed material P when the second printed layer 2 is in a decolorized state.

[0053] Since the second colorant decolorizes above a predetermined temperature, the second code symbol 25 decolorizes. The code reader cannot read the second code symbol 25, and therefore cannot obtain the second information recorded in the second code symbol 25. On the other hand, as the second code symbol 25 changes from a colored state to a decolorized state, the first code symbol 13 appears as illustrated in Figure 6. Since the first colorant does not decolorize even above a predetermined temperature, the first code symbol 13 remains colored. The code reader can read the first code symbol 13, and therefore can obtain the first information recorded in the first code symbol 13.

[0054] According to the third example, the printed material P can be configured, similar to the first example, to allow a code reader to read either of the two code symbols by using a first colorant and a second colorant.

[0055] According to the third example, the printed material P can position the first code symbol 13 inside the outer edge of the second code symbol 25, similar to the second example.

[0056] According to the third example, the printed material P can position the first code symbol 13 in a location that overlaps with the finder pattern 251 of the second code symbol 25. This allows the printed material P to position the first code symbol 13 inside the outer edge of the second code symbol 25 without reducing the amount of information of the first information recorded in the second code symbol 25. Furthermore, since the printed material P does not require a different image from the second code symbol 25 to conceal the first code symbol 13, the amount of second colorant used can be reduced.

[0057] An example of a printing system according to an embodiment will be described. Figure 7 is a perspective view illustrating an example configuration of the printing system 10.

[0058] The printing system 10 includes a transport belt BE on which the object to be printed OB is placed. For example, the transport belt BE moves at a constant speed, transporting the object to be printed OB to multiple process positions for writing printing information, as shown by the white arrows in Figure 7. As a result, printing information is written to the object to be printed OB. The printing information includes first image data for forming a first printing layer on the object to be printed OB with a first colorant and second image data for forming a second printing layer on the object to be printed OB with a second colorant. The multiple processes include a first printing process for forming the first printing layer with the first colorant, a second printing process for forming the second printing layer with the second colorant, and a reading process for reading the printed information, etc. Thus, the transport belt BE constitutes a transporter for transporting the object to be printed OB. Although four transport belts BE are shown in Figure 7, it may be configured as a single transport belt covering all process positions, or multiple transport belts other than four may be used to cover all process positions.

[0059] The object to be printed on, OB, has a rectangular shape, such as a cardboard box or reusable container, and a label LA of a different color, such as white, is affixed to one of the printing surfaces to be printed on. The printing information is printed on this label LA. In other words, the label LA is the printing area, and the surface to which the label LA is affixed is the printing surface. For example, the object to be printed on, OB containing an item, is picked up by a worker or an appropriate picking mechanism, and placed on the conveyor belt BE with the printing surface facing the side of the conveyor belt BE, that is, in a direction perpendicular to the conveying direction of the object to be printed on, OB.

[0060] Furthermore, the printing system 10 may print directly onto one side of the object to be printed OB without using the label LA. The object to be printed OB is an example of a substrate. In this case, it is desirable to use an area with a certain margin from the edge region as the printing area, rather than the entire side of the object to be printed OB. This is because the edge region of a rectangular object to be printed OB is generally prone to damage, and this damage can make the printed information illegible.

[0061] Furthermore, the printing system 10 may also use a mixture of printable objects OB with labels LA attached and printable objects OB without labels LA.

[0062] The printing system 10 further includes a control unit 101, a timing sensor 102, an object sensor 103, a first printer 104, a second printer 105, a code reader 106, a user interface 107, and three motors 108. The timing sensor 102, the object sensor 103, the first printer 104 located at the first printing process position, the second printer 105 located at the second printing process position, the code reader 106 located at the reading process position, and the user interface 107 are arranged in this order along the conveyor belt BE. In other words, the first printing process position, the second printing process position, and the reading process position are arranged in this order.

[0063] The control unit 101 is a computer that controls the operation of each component of the printing system 10.

[0064] The timing sensor 102 is composed of, for example, a photoelectric sensor and detects when the object to be printed OB reaches the position of this timing sensor 102. Based on the time when the timing sensor 102 detects the arrival of the object to be printed OB, the control unit 101 can control the operation timing of the object sensor 103, the first printer 104, the second printer 105, and the code reader 106 based on the speed at which the object to be printed OB moves on the conveyor belt BE.

[0065] The object sensor 103 is composed of an image sensor such as a camera, and captures a photograph of the object to be printed OB. The control unit 101 can detect the presence or absence of a label LA on the object to be printed OB and the size of the object to be printed OB from the captured image of the object to be printed OB using known image processing. Specifically, the control unit 101 detects the distance of the label LA from the front end in the transport direction on the printing surface of the object to be printed OB, the distance from the upper end of the printing surface (distance from the surface facing the mounting surface), and the length and width dimensions. If no label LA is attached, the control unit 101 also detects the length and width dimensions of the object to be printed OB. Based on the detected size of the label LA or the object to be printed OB and known information, the control unit 101 can determine the size and position of the printing area on which the print information will be printed. In this way, the object sensor 103 and the control unit 101 constitute a printing area detection unit that detects the size and position of the printing area on the transported object to be printed OB.

[0066] The first printer 104 is an inkjet printer using a first colorant. The first printer 104 is supported by a support column PO so that it can move in the height direction by a motor 108, as shown by the solid arrow in Figure 7. The first printer 104 is supported by the support column PO so that it can form a first printed layer on the printing area from a direction perpendicular to the transport direction of the object to be printed OB, that is, from the transport direction side. The control unit 101 can control the motor 108 based on the size and position of the printing area determined using the object sensor 103 to adjust the height position of the first printer 104 to match the printing area. Furthermore, the control unit 101 can form a first printed layer on the object to be printed OB using the first colorant by operating the first printer 104 at the timing when the printing area passes, calculated based on the detection time by the timing sensor 102. Thus, the first printer 104 and the control unit 101 constitute a printing unit that forms a first printed layer on the object OB from a direction perpendicular to the transport direction, using the first printer 104, which has adjusted its height position according to the printing area, according to the timing at which the printing area, determined based on the printing area, passes through.

[0067] The second printer 105 is an inkjet printer using a second colorant. The second printer 105 is supported by a support column PO so that it can move in the height direction by a motor 108, as shown by the solid arrow in Figure 7. The second printer 105 is supported by the support column PO so that a second printed layer can be formed on the printing area from a direction perpendicular to the transport direction of the object to be printed OB, that is, from the transport direction side. The control unit 101 can control the motor 108 based on the size and position of the printing area determined using the object sensor 103 to adjust the height position of the second printer 105 to match the printing area. Furthermore, the control unit 101 can form a second printed layer on the object to be printed OB using the second colorant by operating the second printer 105 at the timing when the printing area passes, calculated based on the detection time by the timing sensor 102. Thus, the second printer 105 and control unit 101 comprise a printing unit that includes a second printer 105 positioned downstream of the first printer 104 along the transport direction, and which, according to the timing of the passage of the print area determined based on the print area, uses the second printer 105, whose height position is adjusted according to the print area, to form a second print layer on the object OB from a direction perpendicular to the transport direction.

[0068] The code reader 106 is supported by the support column PO and is movable in the height direction by the motor 108, as shown by the solid arrow in Figure 7. The code reader 106 is supported by the support column PO so that it can read the second code symbol printed on the label LA from a direction perpendicular to the transport direction of the object to be printed OB, that is, from the side in the transport direction. The control unit 101 can control the motor 108 based on the size and position of the print area determined using the object sensor 103 to adjust the height position of the code reader 106 to match the printing position of the second code symbol. Furthermore, the control unit 101 can read the printed second code symbol and acquire the second information by operating the code reader 106 at the timing when the print area passes, calculated based on the detection time by the timing sensor 102.

[0069] The user interface 107 is a system monitor for displaying various information from the control unit 101. The user interface 107 may also be equipped with keys and buttons for inputting various instructions to the control unit 101. The user interface 107 may also include a touch panel with touch keys arranged on a monitor screen such as an LCD.

[0070] In the first printing process, the second printing process, and the reading process, if accurate operation is required, the printing area must be directly facing the first printer 104, the second printer 105, and the code reader 106.

[0071] Therefore, the printing system 10 of this embodiment is equipped with a stopper plate BP and a pressing plate PP on either side of the conveyor belt BE in the conveying direction. The stopper plate BP extends along the conveyor belt BE. The pressing plate PP moves toward the stopper plate BP, as shown by the dashed arrow in Figure 7. During this movement, it comes into contact with the object to be printed OB being conveyed by the conveyor belt BE, pressing the object to be printed OB toward the stopper plate BP and causing the printed surface of the object to abut against the stopper plate BP. As a result, the printed surface of the object to be printed OB is aligned parallel to the conveying direction and is conveyed in this state. The contact surface of the stopper plate BP that comes into contact with the object to be printed OB is made of a low-friction material so as not to affect the conveying of the object to be printed OB. Once the printed surface of the object to be printed OB abuts against the stopper plate BP, the pressing plate PP is retracted to its initial position. Whether or not the printed surface of the object to be printed OB has come into contact with the stopper plate BP can be detected, for example, by a change in repulsive force, or by determining it from an image captured by a camera.

[0072] Furthermore, the timing of the operation of the pressing plate PP will be determined according to the operation instructions given by the worker, for example, if the worker places the object to be printed OB onto the conveyor belt BE. In addition, if the object to be printed OB is placed by the pickup mechanism, the control unit 101 can also perform timing control based on the placement operation of the pickup mechanism.

[0073] In the example shown in Figure 7, the stopper plate BP is constructed as a single plate, but it may also be constructed from multiple consecutive plates. The stopper plate BP only needs to be positioned at least between the placement position of the pressing plate PP and the position of the second printing process.

[0074] Figure 8 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the printing system 10. The control unit 101 includes a CPU 111, and a ROM 112, RAM 113, storage 114, interface 115, sensor circuit 116, first head drive circuit 117, second head drive circuit 118, and motor drive circuit 119 connected to the CPU 111 via a bus 120. In Figure 8, "interface" is abbreviated as "I / F".

[0075] The CPU 111 is a processor that controls the operation of the entire printing system 10. The CPU 111 implements various functions by executing programs pre-stored in the ROM 112. By using a multi-core and multi-threaded CPU 111, multiple information processing operations can be performed simultaneously. Some of the various functions implemented by the CPU 111 through program execution may be implemented by hardware circuits such as ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits), FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays), and GPUs (Graphics Processing Units). In this case, the CPU 111 controls the functions executed by the hardware circuits.

[0076] ROM112 is a non-volatile memory in which control programs and control data are pre-stored.

[0077] RAM113 is volatile memory. RAM113 temporarily stores data being processed by CPU111. RAM113 may also store data necessary for program execution and program execution results. For example, RAM113 temporarily stores first image data as printing information, which forms a first printing layer on the printing target OB using a first colorant. RAM113 temporarily stores second image data which forms a second printing layer on the printing target OB using a second colorant.

[0078] Storage 114 is an auxiliary storage device such as EEPROM (Electric Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or SSD (Solid State Drive). Storage 114 non-volatilely stores data used by the CPU 111 in various processing operations and data generated by the processing performed by the CPU 111. For example, storage 114 stores first information recorded in a first barcode symbol and second information recorded in a second barcode symbol. For example, storage 114 stores the content of the first information obtained by the code reader 106 from the second barcode symbol as object information, associating it with a unique object ID. The object ID is arbitrarily assigned by the CPU 111 and is referred to here as a sequential number.

[0079] Interface 115 is an interface for sending and receiving data with external devices via a network such as a LAN. Interface 115 may also be an interface for reading and writing data to and from removable memory media such as USB memory or memory cards.

[0080] The sensor circuit 116 is connected to the timing sensor 102, the object sensor 103, and the code reader 106, and receives signals or data from them and transmits them to the CPU 111.

[0081] The first head drive circuit 117 drives the first printer 104 based on the first image data input from the CPU 111 and temporarily stored in the RAM 113.

[0082] The second head drive circuit 118 drives the second printer 105 based on the second image data, which is input from the CPU 111 and temporarily stored in the RAM 113.

[0083] The motor drive circuit 119 controls the driving of the motor 108, the belt motor 109, and the press motor 110 according to signals from the CPU 111. The motor drive circuit 119 can independently control the motor 108 for the first printer 104, the motor 108 for the second printer 105, and the motor 108 for the code reader 106. The belt motor 109 is a motor for driving the conveyor belt BE. Only one belt motor 109 is shown as a representative example, and there may be multiple belt motors. The press motor 110 is a motor for moving the press plate PP.

[0084] Furthermore, the user interface 107 is also connected to the bus 120 and can be controlled by the CPU 111. In Figure 8, "user interface" is abbreviated as "UI".

[0085] [Example of operation] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the manufacturing process of printed material P by the printing system 10. The manufacturing process of printed material P includes a first printing step of forming a first printed layer with a first colorant and a second printing step of forming a second printed layer with a second colorant.

[0086] The CPU 111 controls the formation of a first printed layer on the substrate (ACT1). In ACT1, for example, the first head drive circuit 117 drives the first printer 104 based on the first image data input from the CPU 111. The first printer 104 forms a first printed layer containing a first code symbol on the label LA or the object to be printed OB using a first colorant.

[0087] The CPU 111 controls the formation of a second printed layer on the substrate (ACT2). In ACT2, for example, the second head drive circuit 118 drives the second printer 105 based on the second image data input from the CPU 111. The second printer 105 forms a second printed layer containing a second code symbol on the label LA or the object to be printed OB using a second colorant.

[0088] The CPU 111 can manufacture the printed material P in any of the first to third examples described above by manufacturing the printed material P.

[0089] [effect] In the embodiment, the printed material comprises a substrate. The printed material comprises a first printed layer formed on the substrate using a first colorant having the property of not decolorizing at a predetermined temperature, and including a first code symbol on which first information is recorded. The printed material comprises a second printed layer formed on the substrate using a second colorant having the property of decolorizing at a predetermined temperature, such that it covers part or all of the first code symbol, and including a second code symbol on which second information is recorded. In printed materials, the second printing layer covers the first code symbol, eliminating the need to place the first and second code symbols at a large distance from each other. Therefore, the printed material can concentrate the first and second code symbols within a small area, allowing for the efficient placement of multiple code symbols. Furthermore, by using the first and second colorants, the printed material can be configured so that a code reader can read either of the two code symbols. This prevents the code reader from simultaneously recognizing both code symbols.

[0090] In this embodiment, the second printing layer of the printed material includes an image different from the second code symbol. The image covers part or all of the first code symbol. Since the printed material covers the first code symbol with an image different from the second code symbol, the first and second code symbols can be placed in close proximity.

[0091] In this embodiment, the image covering part or all of the first code symbol is located outside the outer edge of the second code symbol. This allows the printed material to place the first and second code symbols at similar sizes. Therefore, a code reader can easily read either the first or second code symbol.

[0092] In this embodiment, the second code symbol includes an empty area where the second information is not recorded. The second printing layer includes an image that covers part or all of the first code symbol in the empty area. This allows the printed material to position the first code symbol inside the outer edge of the second code symbol, with a size appropriate to the available space.

[0093] In one embodiment, the second code symbol includes a finder pattern, which covers part or all of the first code symbol. This allows the printed material to position the first code symbol in a location that overlaps with the finder pattern of the second code symbol. This allows the printed material to position the first code symbol inside the outer edge of the second code symbol without reducing the amount of information of the first information recorded in the second code symbol. Furthermore, since the printed material does not require a different image from the second code symbol to conceal the first code symbol, the amount of second colorant used can be reduced.

[0094] In one embodiment, the method for manufacturing a printed material comprises forming a first printed layer on a substrate using a first colorant that does not fade at a predetermined temperature, and including a first code symbol on which first information is recorded. The method for manufacturing a printed material comprises forming a second printed layer on a substrate using a second colorant that fades at a predetermined temperature, and including a second code symbol on which second information is recorded, so as to cover part or all of the first code symbol. The method for manufacturing printed materials involves forming a second printed layer on the substrate so as to cover the first code symbol, eliminating the need to place the first and second code symbols at a large distance from each other. Because the method allows the first and second code symbols to be concentrated in a narrow area, multiple code symbols can be efficiently arranged.

[0095] [Other embodiments] In the embodiments described above, examples were given where the first and second colorants were inks, but the invention is not limited to these examples. The first and second colorants may also be toners.

[0096] In the embodiments described above, examples were given in which the first code symbol and the second code symbol are two-dimensional code symbols, but the embodiments are not limited thereto. The first code symbol and the second code symbol may also be one-dimensional barcode symbols.

[0097] In the embodiments described above, an example was given in which the printing system forms a first and second printing layer on a label attached to an object to be printed, but the invention is not limited thereto. The printing system may also form the first and second printing layers on a label that is not attached to an object to be printed.

[0098] The program may be transferred while stored in the electronic device according to the embodiment, or it may be transferred without being stored in the electronic device. In the latter case, the program may be transferred via a network, or it may be transferred while recorded on a recording medium. The recording medium is a non-temporary tangible medium. The recording medium is a computer-readable medium. The recording medium may be any medium that is capable of storing a program and is readable by a computer, such as a CD-ROM or memory card, and its form is not limited.

[0099] While several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be carried out in a variety of other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims of the invention and its equivalents. The following is an appended version of the claims as originally filed. (1) Substrate and A first printed layer is formed on the substrate using a first colorant having the property of not decolorizing at a predetermined temperature, and includes a first code symbol on which first information is recorded. A second printed layer is formed on the substrate so as to cover part or all of the first code symbol with a second colorant having the property of decolorizing at a predetermined temperature, and includes a second code symbol on which second information is recorded. A printed material that includes the following features. (2) The second printed layer includes an image different from the second code symbol, The aforementioned image covers part or all of the first code symbol. (1) The printed material described above. (3) The aforementioned image shows a position located outside the outer edge of the second code symbol. (2) The printed materials described above. (4) The aforementioned second code symbol includes an empty area where the aforementioned second information is not recorded. The second printing layer includes the image in the empty area. (2) The printed materials described above. (5) The aforementioned second code symbol includes a finder pattern, The finder pattern covers part or all of the first code symbol. (1) The printed material described above. (6) A first printed layer containing a first code symbol recording first information is formed on a substrate using a first colorant that does not fade at a predetermined temperature. A second printed layer, including a second code symbol on which second information is recorded, is formed on the substrate using a second colorant having the property of decolorizing at a predetermined temperature, such that it covers part or all of the first code symbol. A method for manufacturing printed materials that includes the following features. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0100] 1...First printing layer, 2...Second printing layer, 10...Printing system, 11...First code symbol, 12...First code symbol, 13...First code symbol, 21...Second code symbol, 22...Image, 23...Second code symbol, 24...Image, 25...Second code symbol, 101...Control unit, 102...Timing sensor, 103...Object sensor, 104...First printer, 105...Second printer, 106...Code reader, 107...Yu -The interface, 108...motor, 109...belt motor, 110...pressure motor, 111...CPU, 112...ROM, 113...RAM, 114...storage, 115...interface, 116...sensor circuit, 117...first head drive circuit, 118...second head drive circuit, 119...motor drive circuit, 120...bus, BE...conveyor belt, BP...stopper plate, LA...label, OB...printing target, P...printed material, PO...support column, PP...pressure plate.

Claims

1. Substrate and A first printed layer is formed on the substrate using a first colorant having the property of not decolorizing at a predetermined temperature, and includes a first code symbol on which first information is recorded. A second printed layer formed on the substrate so as to cover part or all of the first code symbol with a second colorant having the property of decolorizing at a predetermined temperature, the second printed layer including a second code symbol on which second information is recorded, A printed material that includes the following features.

2. The second printed layer includes an image different from the second code symbol, The aforementioned image covers part or all of the first code symbol. The printed material according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned image shows a position located outside the outer edge of the second code symbol. The printed material according to claim 2.

4. The second code symbol includes an empty area where the second information is not recorded. The second printing layer includes the image in the empty area. The printed material according to claim 2.

5. The second code symbol includes a finder pattern, The finder pattern covers part or all of the first code symbol. The printed material according to claim 1.

6. A first printed layer containing a first code symbol on which first information is recorded is formed on a substrate using a first colorant that does not fade at a predetermined temperature. A second printed layer made of a second colorant having the property of decolorizing at a predetermined temperature, wherein the second printed layer, which includes a second code symbol recording second information, is formed on the substrate so as to cover part or all of the first code symbol. A method for manufacturing printed materials that includes the following features.

Images