JP2014071466A - Information code read system and information code reader - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a configuration which makes it difficult to recognize the existence of an information code added to an article in a normal environment, and allows the information code to be accurately recognized to perform authenticity determination when the information code is read by an information code reader.SOLUTION: An information code C is not displayed on an information code display body 100 and the information code display body 100 is maintained in a transparent state while a code formation object 101 is irradiated with visible light, and an image of the information code is generated on the information code display body by light in a second wavelength band when the code formation object is irradiated with illumination light in a first wavelength band different from the wavelength band of the visible light. Meanwhile, an information code reader 40 includes an illumination light source 43 capable of emitting illumination light in the first wavelength band and decodes the information code C on the basis of a light reception result of a light receiving sensor 42a during irradiating the information code display body 100 with the illumination light in the first wavelength band. It is determined whether the information code C is a regular information code or not on the basis of the decoded result.

Description

  The present invention relates to an information code reading system and an information code reading device.

  Information codes such as bar codes and two-dimensional codes are widely used for various purposes, and their usage is various. For example, if an information code is attached to an article or a price tag of the article, and the attribute of the article (product name, date of manufacture, price, etc.) is recorded in the information code, the information code is distributed in a distribution channel or a store. By reading, it becomes possible to easily recognize the attribute of the article to which the information code is attached. As a result, the efficiency of various operations or various information processing is improved.

JP 2006-318010 A

  By the way, the information code is useful even when used for authenticity determination of an article. For example, if it is operated so that a regular information code is attached to a regular article, an administrator who manages the article reads the information code attached to the article in a distribution channel or a store, so that the article is a regular article. It becomes possible to easily determine whether or not there is, and for example, it becomes possible to efficiently detect and eliminate counterfeits.

  When operating in this way, for example, a method of linking a tag or the like (price tag or the like) to an article and printing an information code on the tag can be considered, but in this method, the article is removed after the tag is removed. It is impossible to determine whether the product is genuine. For example, an expensive product such as a watch is assumed to be resold after being sold once, but if the information code is not directly attached to the object, the information code indicates whether the resale product is a genuine product. There is a problem that it is not possible to make a judgment based on this. In addition to such problems, there are cases where an information code for authenticity determination should be directly attached to an object. However, if an information code is directly attached to an object, the aesthetics of the object itself are impaired. Since the presence of the information code is easily grasped on the object, there is a concern of giving some kind of fraud.

  In order to solve such a problem, it is desirable to attach an information code so that it cannot be seen in a normal environment. In the technique of Patent Document 1, an invisible information display layer including a coating agent layer is disposed on an article to which an information code is to be attached. When the coating agent layer is irradiated with ultraviolet rays, it is not visible light (red (External light). And it is described that the coating agent layer is in the form of a barcode or a two-dimensional barcode, and in this way, it is possible to make it difficult to recognize the information code part as an invisible information display layer at normal times, When the ultraviolet light is applied, the information code can be grasped by detecting the infrared light emitted from this portion.

  However, in the configuration of Patent Document 1, it is necessary to separately apply a coating agent layer to the outside of an article to which an information code is to be attached, and it becomes easy to form irregularities on the surface of the article. In particular, when the coating agent layer is formed into a barcode or a two-dimensional barcode, complicated irregularities are formed on the surface of the article. For example, the appearance of such irregularities (especially when viewed obliquely from the side) There is a concern that aesthetics may be impaired due to uneven shadows and the like, and touch. Or even if it comprises a coating agent layer as an invisible information display layer, there exists a possibility that the shape of an information code may be specified by the unevenness | corrugation of the coating agent layer attached | subjected to the surface of articles | goods. Even if the shape of the information code cannot be specified, there is a concern that some information is assumed to be attached, which is not perfect in terms of security.

  The present invention has been made in order to solve the above-described problems. Under normal circumstances, it is difficult to recognize the presence of an information code attached to an article. It is an object of the present invention to provide an information code reading system and an information code reading apparatus capable of grasping the above and performing authentication determination.

The first invention relates to an information code reading system,
A transparent code-forming object that transmits light, an information code is formed inside the code-forming object, and the information code is applied when visible light is applied to the code-forming object. The code forming object is maintained in a transparent state without being displayed, and when the irradiation light of the first wavelength band different from the wavelength band of visible light is applied to the code forming object, the first wavelength band An information code display body in which an image of an information code is generated by light of a second wavelength band different from
An information code reader for reading the information code formed on the information code display;
With
The information code reader is
An illumination light source that emits illumination light in the first wavelength band;
A light receiving sensor capable of receiving light of the second wavelength band from the information code when illumination light of the first wavelength band is irradiated to the information code display body;
Decoding means for trying to decode the information code in the captured image based on the captured image generated by the light receiving sensor;
Determining means for determining whether or not a legitimate information code has been decoded based on a decoding result by the decoding means;
It is characterized by having.

The second invention relates to an information code reader,
A transparent code-forming object that transmits light, an information code is formed inside the code-forming object, and the information code is applied when visible light is applied to the code-forming object. The code forming object is maintained in a transparent state without being displayed, and when the irradiation light of the first wavelength band different from the wavelength band of visible light is applied to the code forming object, the first wavelength band An information code display body in which an image of an information code is generated by light of a second wavelength band different from that for reading,
An illumination light source that emits illumination light in the first wavelength band;
A light receiving sensor capable of receiving light of the second wavelength band from the information code when illumination light of the first wavelength band is irradiated to the information code display body;
Decoding means for attempting to decode a code in the captured image based on the captured image generated by the light receiving sensor;
Determining means for determining whether or not a legitimate information code has been decoded based on a decoding result by the decoding means;
It is characterized by having.

In the invention of claim 1, the information code display body maintains the code formation object in a transparent state without displaying the information code when visible light is applied to the code formation object. An information code image is generated by light in a second wavelength band different from the first wavelength band when irradiation light of a first wavelength band different from the visible light wavelength band is applied to the object It has become. According to this configuration, it is possible to make the information code difficult to view in a normal environment where visible light is applied, which is advantageous in applications where it is not desired to make the information code visible in a normal environment.
On the other hand, since the information code reader has an illumination light source, the information code display body can be irradiated with illumination light in the first wavelength band. Since the information code image is generated by the light of the second wavelength band when the information code display body is irradiated with the illumination light of the first wavelength band, the light receiving sensor generates the information code image by the light of the second wavelength band. An image of the information code is taken. In other words, even if it is an information code that is difficult to visually recognize in a normal environment, as long as it has an information code reader, it can be imaged and decoded without any problem, so it should be selectively read by a specific person Will be very advantageous.
Further, since a determination means for determining whether or not the legitimate information code has been decoded based on the result of decoding by the decoding means is provided, security in managing or operating the object to which the information code is attached. Can be further enhanced. For example, since a general third party cannot grasp that the information code is attached even when viewing the information code display body, it is difficult to obtain an opportunity to illegally use the information code. In addition, even if the existence of an information code is recognized by a third party, it is very difficult to attach a similar information code to an object. Can be prevented. Furthermore, since it is possible to determine whether or not the legitimate information code has been decoded, the security is ensured.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, when the decryption by the decryption means is successful, the determination means compares the decrypted data with predetermined information prepared in advance, and based on the comparison result, a normal information code It is determined whether or not is decrypted.
In this configuration, since authenticity determination is performed in comparison with predetermined information prepared in advance, it is possible to accurately determine whether or not a legitimate information code has been decoded based on data collation.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, the information code reader includes predetermined information storage means for storing the predetermined information, and the determination means, when the decoding by the decoding means is successful, the decoded data and the The predetermined information stored in the predetermined information storage means is compared, and it is determined whether or not the regular information code has been decoded based on the comparison result.
According to this configuration, authentication data (predetermined information) is stored in the information code reading device, so that authentication processing can be performed in a short time, and authenticity determination can be speeded up.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a management device capable of communicating with the information code reading device, wherein the management device stores predetermined information storage means for storing the predetermined information, and a request for the predetermined information from the information code reading device. And a control unit that reads the predetermined information stored in the predetermined information storage unit and transmits the predetermined information to the information code reader, and the determination unit provided in the information code reader includes: When requesting the predetermined information to the management apparatus and receiving the predetermined information from the management apparatus, the received predetermined information is compared with the data decoded by the decoding means, and the comparison result Whether or not the legitimate information code has been decoded is determined based on
According to this configuration, authentication data (predetermined information) is not stored in the information code reader, which is further advantageous in terms of security.

In the invention of claim 5, the determination means determines that the information code display body is a fake when the decoding of the code by the decoding means fails, and at least the decoding of the code by the decoding means is successful. The information code display body is determined to be genuine.
In this configuration, if the code cannot be decrypted, all of the codes are basically determined to be fake, so that security can be enhanced.

In the invention of claim 6, the information code attached to the information code display body is recorded with encrypted data obtained by encrypting authentication data based on a predetermined encryption key and a predetermined encryption method, The information code reader is provided with a decryption key storage means for storing a decryption key corresponding to the encryption key or a decryption key acquisition means for acquiring the decryption key from the outside,
The decryption means of the information code reader uses the decryption key prepared in advance in the decryption key storage means or the decryption key acquired from the outside by the decryption key acquisition means, and uses the decryption key according to the encryption method. Attempts to decrypt the data, the determination means of the information code reader determines that the legitimate information code has been decrypted on the condition that the decryption means successfully decrypts the encrypted data.
In the characteristic information code display as described above, if the information code is further encrypted, the security will be extremely high.

  According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, an information code reading device having the same effect as that of the first aspect can be realized.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically illustrating an electrical configuration of the information code reading system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 (A) is an explanatory diagram for explaining the visual state of the information code display body used in the information code reading system of FIG. 1 under a normal environment, and FIG. 2 (B) shows the information code display body. It is explanatory drawing explaining the visual recognition state under the ultraviolet light irradiation environment. FIG. 3 is a graph showing the characteristics of the wavelength selective filter used in the information code reading system of FIG. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of reading processing in the information code reading system of FIG. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an information code display in a modification of the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram schematically illustrating filters and light receiving elements used in the information code reading system according to the second embodiment. FIG. 7 is a graph illustrating transmission characteristics of the R filter, the G filter, and the B filter. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram schematically illustrating the configuration of an information code reading system according to another embodiment.

[First embodiment]
Hereinafter, a first embodiment embodying the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
(Information code reader)
The information code reading system 1 is mainly composed of an information code display body 100 and an information code reading device 40. Hereinafter, the information code reading device 40 will be described first.

  The information code reader 40 has a function of imaging and reading an information code including a two-dimensional code such as a QR code (registered trademark) or a bar code, and further, an information code display body 100 (see FIG. It has a function of reading the information code C (see FIG. 2B) formed in 2).

  The information code reader 40 includes a control unit 41 composed of a CPU and the like, an imaging unit 42 configured as a camera including a light receiving sensor (for example, a C-MOS area sensor, a CCD area sensor, etc.), a wavelength band in the ultraviolet region. An illumination light source 43 that emits illumination light, a storage unit 45 including storage means such as a ROM, a RAM, and a nonvolatile memory are provided. In addition, the information code reading device 40 is provided with a display unit (not shown) including a liquid crystal display, an operation unit (not illustrated) including various operation keys, and the like.

  The control unit 41 is configured by a microcomputer or the like that can control the entire information code reader 40, and includes a CPU, a system bus, an input / output interface, and the like, and has an information processing function. The control unit 41 functions as an information processing apparatus capable of performing various arithmetic processes and control processes together with a storage unit 45 described later.

  The imaging unit 42 is disposed, for example, between a pair of ultraviolet light sources 43a and 43b. When the information code display body 100 is disposed in the imaging range, reflected light (specifically, from the information code display body 100). Specifically, it functions to generate image data of the information code display body 100 by forming an image of reflected light that has passed through a wavelength selection filter 42b (to be described later) on the light receiving surface of the light receiving sensor 42a. The light receiving sensor 42a is configured so as to be able to receive reflected light that is irradiated and reflected on the information code display body 100. For example, light receiving elements that are solid-state imaging elements such as C-MOS and CCD are arranged two-dimensionally. An area sensor corresponds to this. The light receiving sensor 42a is irradiated with illumination light in a first wavelength band (described later) in the ultraviolet light region with respect to the information code display body 100. The second wavelength band (in the visible light region from the information code C) It functions to receive light (described later).

  The wavelength selection filter 42b is a filter that has a high transmittance of light in a specific wavelength band and a low transmittance of light outside the specific wavelength band, and has, for example, characteristics as shown in FIG. Specifically, for example, in a second wavelength band (a wavelength band of light emitted from the information code C when irradiated with ultraviolet light), which will be described later (in FIG. 3, the peak wavelength is indicated by a broken line at the center). In the vicinity of the predetermined wavelength, the transmittance is the highest, and the transmittance decreases as the wavelength increases or decreases from the predetermined wavelength. For example, if the second wavelength band is 600 nm to 700 nm, the peak is in the vicinity of 630 nm to 650, and the transmittance is 60% or more in the range of at least 600 to 700 nm, and the transmittance is 550 nm or less and 750 nm or more. Is less than 60%.

  The imaging lens 42c is constituted by, for example, a lens barrel and a plurality of condensing lenses accommodated in the lens barrel. A code image of an information code C (described later) is displayed on the light receiving surface of the light receiving sensor 42a. It functions to form an image. The image signal output from the light receiving sensor 42a of the optical system is stored in, for example, an image data storage area of the storage unit 45.

  For example, the illumination light source 43 is provided on each side of the imaging unit 42 (light receiving optical system). The illumination light source 43 is configured by a pair of ultraviolet light sources 43a and 43b that irradiate illumination light in an ultraviolet light wavelength band of 10 to 380 nm (more specifically, for example, a wavelength band of 200 nm to 300 nm). The imaging range of the imaging unit 42 is configured to irradiate ultraviolet light. The outside of the wavelength of ultraviolet light corresponds to an example of “first wavelength band”.

  The storage unit 45 is configured by a semiconductor memory device or the like, and corresponds to, for example, a RAM (DRAM, SRAM, etc.) or a ROM (EPROM, EEPROM, etc.). In addition to the above-described image data storage area, the RAM of the storage unit 45 is configured to be able to secure a work area and a reading condition table used by the control unit 41 in each processing such as arithmetic operation and logical operation. Yes. The ROM stores in advance a predetermined program that can execute various processes and the like, and a system program that can control each hardware such as the illumination light source and the light receiving sensor 42a.

(Information code display body 100)
Next, the information code display body 100 will be described.
This information code display body 100 is formed by forming an information code C on the code forming object 101. The code forming object 101 serving as the base of the code display body 100 is configured by a light-transmitting (for example, transparent) member that transmits light. For example, silica glass or the like is preferably used. An information code C is formed inside the code forming object 101, and light having a predetermined wavelength band in the visible light region (for example, light having a wavelength band of 380 nm to 750 nm) is applied to the code forming object 101. The information code C is not displayed (ie, does not appear so as to be visually recognized), and the code forming object 101 is maintained in a transparent state. FIG. 2A shows the appearance of the information code display body 100 in a normal environment irradiated with visible light. The information code C does not appear in the code area C ′, and the same as outside the area. It is in a transparent state. That is, the information code C is not visible to the person.

  On the other hand, the first wavelength band (for example, the wavelength band of ultraviolet light of 10 to 380 nm (more specifically, for example, the wavelength band of 200 nm to 300 nm)) different from the wavelength band of visible light with respect to the code forming object 101. When irradiated with light, a second wavelength band different from the first wavelength band (for example, a wavelength band of visible light of 380 nm to 750 nm (more specifically, for example, a wavelength band of red color having a wavelength of 600 nm to 700 nm) ) To generate an image of the information code C. That is, when the irradiation light of the first wavelength band is applied to the code forming object 101, the portion of the information code C is the second. Light is emitted by light in the wavelength band. At this time, the information code C can be visually recognized by a person, and the imaging unit 42 can also capture an image so that the area of the information code C and each cell can be specified. 2B shows how the information code display body 100 is seen when ultraviolet light having a wavelength of 200 nm to 300 nm is irradiated, and at this time, in the visible light wavelength band of 380 nm to 750 nm. Each portion of the dark cell of the information code C emits light (for example, emits light in red) by light, since each portion of the light cell is not specially processed, It is visually recognized in the transparent state (the region that does not emit light) similarly to the outside.

  The pattern formed on silica glass or the like is not displayed when light of a predetermined wavelength band in the visible light region is applied, and differs from the wavelength band of ultraviolet light when irradiated with light in the wavelength band of ultraviolet light. As a method for forming a pattern so as to be displayed by light in the wavelength band, it can be suitably performed by using a known femtosecond laser processing technique for silica glass using a long focal depth hologram. As a specific method, Reference 1 (Announcement date: January 25, 2011, Organizer: SPIE, Society name: Photonics West 2011 (The Moscone Center, San Francisco California, USA), title “Invisible two-dimensional barcode” Fabrication inside a synthetic silica grass by femtosecond laser processing using a computer-generated hologram ”, author: Hayato Kawashima, Masahiro Yamaji, Jun'ichi Suzuki, Shuhei Tanaka, Reference 2 (release date: November 28-30, 2011) Organizer: The Optical Society of Japan, Academic Society: Annual Meeting of the Optical Society of Japan, “Realization of Rewritable Transparent Marking in Quartz Glass”, Authors: Hayato Kawashima, Shuhei Tanaka, Reference 3 (Announcement Date: 2011) December 5th, Organizer: Laser Processing Society, Society name: 76th Laser Processing Society Lecture, Title: “Transparent marking inside silica glass using femtosecond laser”, Author: Hayato Kawashima, Ta Shuhei) can be used the methods disclosed in such.

(Reading process)
Next, reading processing of the information code display body 100 by the information code reading device 40 will be described, and related functions will also be described. In the following representative examples, for example, a portion having light transmissivity (for example, transparency) such as a glass covering a dial of a watch, a glass portion of a glass, or a glass portion of a decoration partly or entirely made of glass is a code. A description will be given of an example in which the code formation target 101 is given the predetermined identification information. In addition, as a product, it may be comprised only with the coat formation target object 100, and the coat formation target object 100 may be comprised combining with another articles | goods. The identification information may be an identification number uniquely assigned to each code forming object 101 or may be a predetermined constant number. Such identification information is assumed to be stored in advance in the storage unit 45 of the information code reader 40.

  In the reading process shown in FIG. 4, first, the illumination light source 43 emits illumination light of the first wavelength band, and the information code display body 100 is irradiated with illumination light of the first wavelength band. In the representative example of the present embodiment, the first wavelength band is an ultraviolet light wavelength band of, for example, 10 to 380 nm (more specifically, for example, a wavelength band of 200 to 300 nm). 100 is irradiated with ultraviolet light.

  In the present embodiment, the information code display body 100 generates an image of the information code C in the wavelength band of visible light of a predetermined color when the irradiation light of the first wavelength band is applied to the code forming object 101. It is comprised so that. That is, when the light of the first wavelength band is irradiated in the process of S1, the information code display body 100 emits light in the wavelength band of visible light of the predetermined color (second wavelength band). The light is received by the light receiving sensor 42a. More specifically, in the information code display 100, the dark cell portion of the information code C emits red light (light with a wavelength band of 600 nm to 700 nm) when irradiated with ultraviolet light. In S2, an image of such a light emission state is picked up by the light receiving sensor 42a.

  In addition, the information code reader 40 according to the present embodiment is configured such that the transmission degree of light in the second wavelength band is larger than the transmission degree of light in a predetermined wavelength band that is out of the second wavelength band. The light receiving sensor 42a receives the light in the second wavelength band that has passed through the wavelength selective filter 42b and images it. More specifically, the above-described degree of transmission of visible light of a predetermined color is configured to be greater than the degree of transmission of visible light of another color having a wavelength band different from that of the predetermined color. For example, if the “predetermined color visible light” is red light, the wavelength selection filter 42b is configured such that the transmission degree of red light is greater than the transmission degree of other color light (for example, green light or blue light). The light receiving sensor 42a selectively receives red light (for example, light having a wavelength of 600 nm to 700 nm) that has passed through the wavelength selection filter 42b and images it. The light receiving sensor 42a is configured such that light transmitted through the wavelength selection filter 42b is incident on the entire light receiving region over a predetermined range. In the decoding process (S3) described later, the light receiving result in this light receiving region is displayed. The information code C is decrypted based on the information code C.

  After imaging in S2, the image of the information code C obtained in S2 is analyzed by a known method, and the information code is decoded (S3). In S4, it is determined whether or not the decoding in S3 is successful. If the decryption is not successful in S3 (for example, if the information code itself cannot be recognized, or if the information code is of a different type from the expected type, or if the recorded content of the information code is encrypted with the encryption key) If the encrypted data cannot be decrypted), the process proceeds to No in S4, and it is determined that the code forming object 101 or the article to which the code forming object 101 is attached is a bowl (S9).

  On the other hand, when the process proceeds to Yes in S4, it is determined by comparison whether or not the content decoded in S3 is predetermined information. As described above, in the present embodiment, the identification information to be recorded in the regular information code is stored as single information or as a list in the storage unit 45, and in S5, the information decoded in S3 is stored in the information. It is determined whether or not the identification information registered in the unit 45 is included. For example, if the identification information is single information, it is determined whether or not the identification information registered in the storage unit 45 exists in the information decoded in S3. If a list of identification information is stored in the storage unit 45, it is determined whether any of the identification information stored in the storage unit 45 is present in the information decoded in S3. If the comparison contents in S5 are the same (that is, if the identification information registered in the storage unit 45 is included in the information decoded in S3), the process proceeds to Yes in S6 and the code formation target It is determined that the article 101 or the article to which the code forming object 101 is attached is genuine (S7). On the other hand, when the comparison contents in S5 are not the same (that is, when the identification information registered in the storage unit 45 is not included in the information decoded in S3), the process proceeds to No in S6, and the code forming object 101 or the article to which the code forming object 101 is attached is determined to be a bowl (S8).

  In the present embodiment, the control unit 41 corresponds to an example of “decoding means” and functions to decode the information code C based on a light reception result (that is, a captured image captured by the light reception sensor 42a) by the light reception sensor 42a. Specifically, the information code C is set based on the light reception result of the light in the second wavelength band by the light reception sensor 42a (more specifically, the light reception result of light of a predetermined color (red in the representative example) by the light reception sensor 42a). It works to decipher.

  The control unit 41 corresponds to an example of a “determination unit” and functions to determine whether or not a legitimate information code has been decoded based on a decoding result by the decoding unit. In this case, the information code display 100 is determined to be fake, and the information code display 100 is determined to be genuine on the condition that at least the decoding of the code by the decoding means is successful. Specifically, when the decryption by the decrypting means is successful, the decrypted data is compared with predetermined information prepared in advance (for example, identification information stored in the information code reader 40), and the comparison result is Based on this, it is determined whether or not the legitimate information code has been decoded.

  The storage unit 45 of the information code reading device 40 corresponds to an example of a “predetermined information storage unit” and functions to store the predetermined information (identification information). The control unit 41 corresponding to the determination unit compares the decoded data with the predetermined information stored in the storage unit 45 (predetermined information storage unit) when the decoding by the decoding unit is successful, It functions to determine whether or not a regular information code (regular code) has been decoded based on the result.

(Main effects of the above configuration)
In the above configuration, the information code display body 100 maintains the code forming object 101 in a transparent state without displaying the information code C when visible light is applied to the code forming object 101. When irradiation light having a first wavelength band different from the visible light wavelength band is applied to the formation target 101, an image of the information code C is generated by light having a second wavelength band different from the first wavelength band. It has become so. According to this configuration, the information code C can be made difficult to view in a normal environment where visible light is applied, which is advantageous in applications where the information code C is not desired to be viewed in a normal environment.

  On the other hand, since the information code reader 40 includes the illumination light source 43, the information code display body 100 can be irradiated with illumination light in the first wavelength band. Since the information code display body 100 generates an image of the information code C by the light of the second wavelength band when the illumination light of the first wavelength band is irradiated, the light receiving sensor 42a uses the light of the second wavelength band. An image of the generated information code C is captured. That is, even if the information code C is difficult to visually recognize in a normal environment, as long as the information code reader 40 is provided, the information code C can be imaged and decoded without any trouble. It will be very advantageous in power applications.

  Further, the information code reader 40 includes a wavelength selection filter configured such that the transmission degree of light in the second wavelength band is larger than the transmission degree of light in a predetermined wavelength band that is out of the second wavelength band. The light receiving sensor is configured to receive light in the second wavelength band that has passed through the wavelength selection filter, and the decoding means decodes the information code C based on the light reception result of the light in the second wavelength band by the light receiving sensor. Is configured to do.

  According to this configuration, it is possible to suppress light in a predetermined wavelength band that deviates from the second wavelength band in light going to the light receiving sensor, so that the light receiving sensor can selectively receive light in the second wavelength band. It becomes. Therefore, noises unrelated to the information code C, such as reflected light from the background and disturbance light, can be effectively removed.

  Further, the information code display body 100 generates an image of the information code C in the wavelength band of visible light of a predetermined color when the irradiation light of the first wavelength band is applied to the code forming object 101. The wavelength selection filter provided in the information code reader 40 is configured such that the visible light transmission degree of a predetermined color is larger than the transmission degree of visible light of another color having a wavelength band different from that of the predetermined color. The decoding means is configured to decode the information code C based on a light reception result of light of a predetermined color by the light receiving sensor.

  In this configuration, it is possible to suppress light in a wavelength band of other colors that deviates from a predetermined color (display color of the information code C), so that the information code C and the background image can be more reliably separated. In particular, in the present system, since the part where the information code C is formed is the transparent code forming object 101, the information code C and the image of the object behind are overlapped, and the shape of the information code C is changed. Although there is a concern that it cannot be accurately recognized, in the above configuration, by selectively recognizing the color of the information code C, the shape of the information code C can be grasped more accurately in a form separated from the background. The information code C can be more reliably decoded.

  The light receiving sensor is configured so that light transmitted through the wavelength selection filter is incident on the entire light receiving region over a predetermined range, and the decoding means decodes the information code C based on the light receiving result in the light receiving region. It is configured as follows. By doing so, incidence of light in a predetermined wavelength band that is out of the second wavelength band is suppressed in the entire light receiving region of the light receiving sensor. That is, a wider area of the light receiving sensor can be used as an area where the information code C can be easily recognized.

  Further, the information code display body 100 generates an image of the information code C by reflected light in the visible wavelength band when the code forming object 101 is irradiated with illumination light in the first wavelength band. The light receiving sensor 42a is configured to receive the reflected light in the visible light wavelength band constituting the image of the information code C. In this configuration, the information code C can be visually recognized at the time of reading while maintaining the information code C in a state in which it is difficult to visually recognize the information code C at a normal time. The reading operation can be performed by grasping, and as a result, it becomes easy to suppress the decoding failure caused by the shift of the imaging position.

  Further, the information code display body 100 generates an image of the information code C by reflected light having a wavelength band different from the ultraviolet light when the code forming object 101 is irradiated with the ultraviolet illumination light. The illumination light source 43 can be irradiated with ultraviolet illumination light. In this configuration, ultraviolet light that is difficult to hit under normal circumstances is used as “illumination light in the first wavelength band”, so that the possibility that the information code C is accidentally displayed can be kept low.

  Further, since there is provided determination means for determining whether or not the legitimate information code has been decoded based on the result of decoding by the decoding means, security in managing or operating the object to which the information code C is attached. It is possible to further improve the properties. For example, since a general third party cannot grasp the fact that the information code C is attached even when viewing the information code display body 100, it is difficult to obtain an opportunity to illegally use the information code C. In addition, even if the existence of the information code C is recognized by a third party, it is very difficult to attach the same information code to the object, so that illegal use (for example, imitation) of the information code is effective. Can be prevented. Furthermore, since it is possible to determine whether or not the legitimate information code has been decoded, the security is ensured.

  Further, when the decryption by the decryption means is successful, the determination means compares the decrypted data with predetermined information prepared in advance, and determines whether or not the legitimate information code has been decrypted based on the comparison result. judge. In this configuration, since authenticity determination is performed in comparison with predetermined information prepared in advance, it is possible to accurately determine whether or not a legitimate information code has been decoded based on data collation.

  Further, the information code reading device 40 includes a storage unit 45 (predetermined information storage means) for storing predetermined information, and the determination means, when the decoding by the decoding means is successful, the decoded data and the predetermined information storage means Is compared with the predetermined information stored in the table, and based on the comparison result, it is determined whether or not the regular information code has been decoded. According to this configuration, authentication data (predetermined information) is stored in the information code reading device, so that authentication processing can be performed in a short time, and authenticity determination can be speeded up.

  The determination means determines that the information code display body 100 is a fake when the decoding of the code by the decoding means fails, and at least the information code display body 100 is genuine on the condition that the decoding of the code by the decoding means is successful. It is judged. In this configuration, if the code cannot be decrypted, all of the codes are basically determined to be fake, so that security can be enhanced.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.
In the second embodiment, only the configuration of the information code display body 100 is different from the first embodiment. Therefore, the description about the information code reader 40 is omitted. An information code display body 100 shown in FIG. 5 is used by being attached to an article M, and a code forming object 101 is configured in a plate shape or a sheet shape (for example, a thin thin film having flexibility by itself). It is configured as a member), and an adhesive medium 103 such as an adhesive or glue is attached to one surface in the thickness direction of the cord forming object 101. The entire information code display body 100 is configured as a seal member. The type of the article M is not particularly limited, and various articles can be targeted.

  According to this configuration, the information code display body 100 can be used by being attached to another object, which is advantageous in terms of usefulness and convenience. For example, it is possible to attach an information code C that is difficult to visually recognize to an object or the like (for example, an expensive product or an object that is not suitable for formation) that is not desirable to directly form the information code C. It can be managed in association with the characteristic information code C.

  In the example of FIG. 5, the example in which the cord forming object 101 configured in a plate shape or a sheet shape is attached to the article M by the adhesive medium 103 is shown. However, one side in the thickness direction of the cord forming object 101 is the article. It may be fixed to the outer surface of M (another object) by fusion or the like. For example, the surface of the code forming object 101 or the article M may be melted by a thermal action or a chemical action and solidified to bond the code forming object 101 and the article M. Even in this configuration, the information code display body 100 can be fixed to another object and used integrally, which is advantageous in terms of usefulness and convenience, and can provide the same effects as in the example of FIG. .

[Third embodiment]
Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. The third embodiment is different from the first embodiment only in the configuration of the imaging unit 42, and the other parts are the same as those in the first embodiment. Specifically, the wavelength selection filter 42b is omitted and a small filter (R filter 201, G filter 202, B filter 203) is provided, which is different from the first embodiment. Since the other configuration is the same as that of the first embodiment or the second embodiment, it will be described with reference to FIGS.

  In the information code reader 40 according to the third embodiment, the light receiving sensor 42a is configured as a color sensor having a plurality of pixels (light receiving elements 42a ') and a small filter assigned to each pixel. This color sensor has, for example, a configuration as shown in FIG. 6 (note that only some pixels are shown in FIG. 6), and as a small filter, at least the wavelength band of the first color (specifically, the wavelength of red light) An R filter 201 (R filter 201 is equivalent to the first filter) that suppresses light in a first predetermined wavelength band that passes light in the first color and deviates from the first color wavelength band, and a second color wavelength band ( Specifically, a G filter 202 (G filter 202 corresponds to the second filter) that suppresses light in a second predetermined wavelength band that passes light in the green wavelength band) and deviates from the second color wavelength band; B filter 203 that suppresses light in a third predetermined wavelength band that is out of the wavelength band of the third color through light in the third color wavelength band (specifically, the blue light wavelength band). , Corresponding to a third filter). The R filter 201, the G filter 202, and the B filter 203 are dispersed in such a manner that any small filter is assigned to any pixel (specifically, each pixel is covered with the small filter). Is arranged. The characteristics of each filter are as shown in FIG. 7, for example. “B” in the alternate long and short dash line indicates the relationship between the wavelength and transmittance in the B filter 203, and “G” in the broken line indicates the G filter 202. The solid line “R” indicates the relationship between the wavelength and the transmittance of the R filter 201. In the example of FIG. 6, an example in which the arrangement of the R filter 201, the G filter 202, and the B filter 203 is a known Bayer arrangement is shown, but other arrangements may be used.

  Also in the present embodiment, the information code display body 100 has the first color when the irradiation light in the first wavelength band (for example, the same ultraviolet light as in the first embodiment) is applied to the code forming object 101. An image of the information code C is generated in a visible light wavelength band (for example, a wavelength band of red light having a wavelength of 600 nm to 700 nm), and a wavelength selection filter to selectively pass this light is dispersed. The plurality of R filters 201 are arranged. This R filter has a transmittance of less than 10% at the peak wavelength of the transmittance of the B filter and the G filter, and has a high function of suppressing green light and blue light. Then, the control unit 41 corresponding to the decoding means decodes the information code C based on the light reception result of the first color light by the light receiving sensor 42a (that is, the image generated by the pixel to which the R filter 201 is assigned). It is configured as follows. Note that signals from pixels to which the G filter 202 and the B filter 203 are assigned may be deleted or ignored.

  In this configuration, light from the information code C can be selectively recognized without greatly changing hardware in the configuration using the color sensor.

[Other Embodiments]
The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described with reference to the above description and drawings. For example, the following embodiments are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

  Although the example in which the illumination light source 43 is provided in the case of the information code reading device 40 is shown, it is not limited to such a configuration. That is, the information code reading device 40 may be configured by a plurality of devices, and the illumination light source 43 may be configured as a lighting fixture separate from the case that houses the imaging unit 42. The decoding means for decoding the data imaged by the imaging unit 42 may be a separate device from the case that houses the imaging unit 42.

In addition to the configuration of FIG. 1, a management device 60 as shown in FIG. 8 may be provided. The management device 60 of FIG. 8 is configured to be able to communicate with the information code reading device 40 shown in the first embodiment via the Internet, a dedicated line, or the like. In this configuration, the management device 60 is used instead of the storage unit 45. The above-described predetermined information (identification information) can be stored. In this case, the storage unit 65 of the management device 60 corresponds to “predetermined information storage unit”. In this case, in S5 of FIG. 4, the information code reading device 40 requests predetermined information (identification information) from the management device 60, and the management device 60 receives the predetermined information (identification information) from the information code reading device 40. In response to the request, the predetermined information (identification information) stored in the storage unit 65 (predetermined information storage means) is read and transmitted to the information code reader 40. The control unit 61 and the communication unit 62 of the management device 60 correspond to an example of “control unit”.
In the comparison process in S5 and the determination process in S6, the same comparison / determination as in the first embodiment may be performed based on the predetermined information (identification information) acquired from the management device 60 in this way. In this case as well, the control unit 41 that executes the processes of S5 and S6 corresponds to an example of a “determination unit”, and requests predetermined information (identification information) from the management device 60, and from the management device 60 When the predetermined information (identification information) is received, the received predetermined information (identification information) is compared with the data decoded by the decoding means, and whether or not the legitimate information code is decoded based on the comparison result It functions to determine whether or not.
According to this configuration, authentication data (predetermined information) is not stored in the information code reader 40, which is further advantageous in terms of security.

In addition, the information code C attached to the information code display body 100 may be recorded with encrypted data obtained by encrypting authentication data based on a predetermined encryption key and a predetermined encryption method. In this case, the storage unit 45 of the information code reader 40 is caused to function as a “decryption key storage unit” and the decryption key corresponding to the encryption key (for example, the same data as the encryption key when the information code C was generated) 8), or the encryption key is stored in the storage unit 65 of the management device 60 in the configuration as shown in FIG. 8, and the decryption key is received from the outside (management device 60) in the process of S3. You only have to get it. In this case, the decryption algorithm corresponding to the encryption algorithm (encryption program) used for encrypting the information code C (that is, the decryption program for decrypting the encrypted data generated by the encryption algorithm) ) May be stored in the storage unit 45. Then, the control unit 41 corresponding to the decryption means uses the decryption key prepared in advance in the decryption key storage means or the decryption key acquired from the outside by the decryption key acquisition means in the process of S3, and The encrypted data recorded in the information code C may be decrypted according to the method (that is, the encryption method when the information code C is encrypted). Specifically, the encrypted data is decrypted by the decryption key and the decryption algorithm.
In this case, the control unit 41 corresponding to the determination means determines that the legitimate information code has been decrypted on the condition that the decryption means successfully decrypts the encrypted data.
Thus, if the characteristic information code display body 100 is configured such that the inside of the information code C is further encrypted, the security is extremely high.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Information code reading system 40 ... Information code reading device 41 ... Control part (decoding means, determination means)
42 ... Imaging unit (light receiving means)
42b ... wavelength selection filter 43 ... illumination light source 45 ... storage unit (predetermined information storage means)
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 ... Information code display body 101 ... Code formation target object 103 ... Adhesive medium 201 ... R filter (1st filter)
202 ... G filter (second filter)
203 ... B filter (third filter)
C ... Information code

Claims (7)

A transparent code-forming object that transmits light, an information code is formed inside the code-forming object, and the information code is applied when visible light is applied to the code-forming object. The code forming object is maintained in a transparent state without being displayed, and when the irradiation light of the first wavelength band different from the wavelength band of visible light is applied to the code forming object, the first wavelength band An information code display body in which an image of an information code is generated by light of a second wavelength band different from
An information code reader for reading the information code formed on the information code display;
With
The information code reader is
An illumination light source that emits illumination light in the first wavelength band;
A light receiving sensor capable of receiving light of the second wavelength band from the information code when illumination light of the first wavelength band is irradiated to the information code display body;
Decoding means for trying to decode the information code in the captured image based on the captured image generated by the light receiving sensor;
Determining means for determining whether or not a legitimate information code has been decoded based on a decoding result by the decoding means;
An information code reading system comprising:   When the decryption by the decryption unit is successful, the determination unit compares the decrypted data with predetermined information prepared in advance, and determines whether or not a regular information code has been decrypted based on the comparison result. The information code reading system according to claim 1, wherein the information code reading system is determined. The information code reading device includes predetermined information storage means for storing the predetermined information,
The determination means compares the decoded data with the predetermined information stored in the predetermined information storage means when the decoding by the decoding means is successful, and based on the comparison result, a normal information code is obtained. 3. The information code reading system according to claim 2, wherein it is determined whether or not the information has been decoded. A management device capable of communicating with the information code reader;
The management device
Predetermined information storage means for storing the predetermined information;
Control means for reading the predetermined information stored in the predetermined information storage means in response to a request for the predetermined information from the information code reading apparatus and transmitting the predetermined information to the information code reading apparatus;
Have
The determination means provided in the information code reader requests the predetermined information from the management device, and when the predetermined information is received from the management device, the received predetermined information and the predetermined information 3. The information code reading system according to claim 2, wherein the data decoded by the decoding means is compared, and it is determined whether or not the normal information code has been decoded based on the comparison result.   The determination means determines that the information code display body is a fake when the decoding of the code by the decoding means fails, and the information code display body is determined on the condition that at least the decoding of the code by the decoding means is successful. The information code reading system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the information code reading system is determined to be genuine. In the information code attached to the information code display body is recorded encrypted data obtained by encrypting authentication data based on a predetermined encryption key and a predetermined encryption method,
The information code reader is provided with a decryption key storage means for storing a decryption key corresponding to the encryption key or a decryption key acquisition means for acquiring the decryption key from the outside,
The decryption means of the information code reader uses the decryption key prepared in advance in the decryption key storage means or the decryption key acquired from the outside by the decryption key acquisition means, and uses the decryption key according to the encryption method. Trying to decipher the data,
6. The information code reader according to claim 1, wherein the determination means determines that the legitimate information code has been decoded on condition that the decryption means successfully decrypts the encrypted data. The information code reading system according to any one of the above. A transparent code-forming object that transmits light, an information code is formed inside the code-forming object, and the information code is applied when visible light is applied to the code-forming object. The code forming object is maintained in a transparent state without being displayed, and when the irradiation light of the first wavelength band different from the wavelength band of visible light is applied to the code forming object, the first wavelength band An information code display body in which an image of an information code is generated by light of a second wavelength band different from that for reading,
An illumination light source that emits illumination light in the first wavelength band;
A light receiving sensor capable of receiving light of the second wavelength band from the information code when illumination light of the first wavelength band is irradiated to the information code display body;
Decoding means for attempting to decode a code in the captured image based on the captured image generated by the light receiving sensor;
Determining means for determining whether or not a legitimate information code has been decoded based on a decoding result by the decoding means;
An information code reading device comprising:

Images