JP2006309791A - Information providing system using bar code - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a technology capable of preventing generation of unnecessary barcode image reading work due to problems such as compatibility and achieving advanced information service associated with the bar code image. <P>SOLUTION: An image output device 1 inputs content information, generates a barcode by encoding the inputted content information, and outputs print data so that an index image visually representing a property of the content information is printed in the vicinity of the generated barcode. A mobile machine 6 reads the barcode to decode the content information including a plurality of URL, decides a URL matching user attribute information, and accesses a distribution sever 200 by using the decided URL for acquiring the content information. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a technique for providing information using a display object with a barcode attached thereto.

  Some barcodes use one-dimensional symbols and others use two-dimensional symbols. The latter is called a two-dimensional barcode and is suitable for use when providing a large amount of information. In providing information using a two-dimensional barcode, the information provider generates a two-dimensional barcode by encoding a character string to be provided, and passes this two-dimensional barcode to the recipient by printing or communication.

  A typical usage of the two-dimensional barcode in the receiver is to acquire information encoded in the two-dimensional barcode (hereinafter referred to as “content information”) by decoding. An apparatus used for decoding content information includes a mobile device that includes a digital camera and has a function of decoding content information from a two-dimensional barcode in a specific format (for example, see Non-Patent Document 1).

The mobile device described in Non-Patent Document 1 reads a two-dimensional barcode from a printed material using a digital camera and decodes content information from the read two-dimensional barcode in accordance with a user operation. Further, when the mobile device detects a specific character string in the decrypted content information, the mobile device performs processing according to the specific character string. For example, when the first character string of the decrypted content information is “MEMORY:”, the mobile device stores information such as a name, a telephone number, and an e-mail address represented by a character string subsequent to the character string. Operates to batch register in the phone book in the mobile device.
"J-SHO10", [online], Sharp Corporation, [Search May 27, 2003], Internet <URL: http: //www.sharp.co.jp/products/jsh010/text/barcode.html >

  By the way, the format of the content information of the two-dimensional barcode is not standardized. For this reason, even if the content information is decoded from the same two-dimensional barcode, there may be a compatibility problem that the content information can be handled correctly by one mobile device but cannot be handled correctly by another mobile device. Of course, if the format of the content information is standardized, compatibility problems will not arise, but mobile device manufacturers are differentiating from other companies, and it is virtually impossible to unify them completely.

  If the compatibility problem cannot be resolved, it is difficult to determine the format of the content information simply by looking at the two-dimensional bar code. Therefore, the user has content information that cannot be handled correctly by his mobile device. The encoded two-dimensional bar code is read by the mobile device without knowing it. Moreover, the user knows that his / her mobile device cannot be handled correctly after the decoding is completed. Then, the user who knows this repeats the reading operation for other two-dimensional barcodes or gives up reading.

  Furthermore, even if the barcode is successfully read and the user acquires the content information, it is difficult to say that the acquired information is fully utilized. For example, it is considered that a seller or the like posts an advertisement or the like of his / her product on which a barcode for reading on a mobile terminal owned by the user is printed on the street. In such an advertisement sales method, it is considered that it is very effective in terms of sales strategy if it is possible to provide information tailored to consumers, that is, terminal user's preference.

  However, when applying information that matches the user's preference using a barcode, simply speaking, it is necessary to print the same number of barcodes as the user's preference number. However, it is not realistic to print a large number of barcodes on advertising posters or books. Even if the merchant can prepare a large number of bar codes, this time, it takes time for the user to find the target bar code. As described above, it is impossible to provide information that meets the user's needs using the barcode.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a technique capable of realizing advanced information provision in cooperation with a barcode image.

  The present invention provides a storage unit that stores user attribute information, a reading unit that reads content information included in a two-dimensional barcode, a decoding unit that decodes the content information read by the reading unit, and the decoding unit Deciding means for deciding the descriptor included in the content information decrypted in step 1 that matches the user attribute information, and communicating with the information providing server using the descriptor decided by the deciding means as a connection destination And a display unit for displaying content information received from the information providing server using the communication unit.

  In a preferred aspect, the content information is script data, and includes an instruction code for instructing reading of the user attribute from the storage unit when executed by the mobile communication terminal.

  In another preferred aspect, the descriptor is a URL, and the determining means determines the conformity determination based on whether or not a character string corresponding to the user attribute information is included in a character string constituting the URL. I do.

  The user attribute information may include at least one of information on the user's language, information necessary for the payment process, and information on at least one of the user's age and sex.

  In still another preferred aspect, the mobile communication terminal further includes an input unit for inputting a user instruction, and the determination unit is configured such that when a plurality of descriptors are selected or a suitable descriptor is selected. If not, the fact is displayed on the display unit, and one descriptor is determined based on the instruction input from the input means.

  In another aspect, the present invention provides a method for acquiring content from an information providing server using a mobile communication terminal provided with a storage unit that stores user attribute information. Content information contained in a two-dimensional barcode is A reading step for reading; a decoding step for decoding the read content information; a determination step for determining a descriptor included in the decoded content information that matches the user attribute information; and the determination means The content acquisition method includes an access step of accessing the information providing server using the descriptor determined by the above as a connection destination, and an acquiring step of acquiring content from the information providing server.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to improve expressive power by making it possible to designate a sign image, or by enabling printing or display of a plurality of sign images. Furthermore, by including information on the information provider according to the user attribute etc. in the barcode, the printed matter, the display screen, etc. and the information providing device are linked to each other, providing information according to each user, It becomes possible to construct a system related to the sale of products.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, common parts are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[First Embodiment]
[Information distribution system]
FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining an example of information distribution using the image output apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. As is apparent from this figure, a printer 3 is connected to the image output apparatus 1 by a USB (Universal Serial Bus) cable 2. Further, each of the mobile devices 6A to 6C can perform packet communication with the Web server device 9 via the mobile packet communication network 7 and the Internet 8 directly or indirectly.

  Each of the mobile units 6A and 6B can read the two-dimensional barcode, decodes the content information from the read two-dimensional barcode, and correctly recognizes the content information if it is described in the A format. be able to. The mobile device 6C can read the two-dimensional barcode, decodes the content information from the read two-dimensional barcode, and can correctly recognize this content information if it is described in the B format. That is, the mobile devices 6A to 6C have the same function regarding the handling of the two-dimensional barcode except that the adopted formats are different. Therefore, hereinafter, when it is not necessary to individually specify the mobile devices 6A to 6C, they are referred to as “mobile device 6”. The mobile device 6 has a phone book registration function, a new mail creation function, and a bookmark registration function, as in the case of a general mobile device that can be accessed via the Web. If the mobile device 6 correctly recognizes the content information for “phone book registration”, the mobile device 6 passes the content information to the phone book registration function. If it is for “bookmark registration” that the information is transferred to the new mail creation function, the content information can be transferred to the bookmark registration function.

  In the information distribution system shown in FIG. 1, the image output device 1 operates as follows according to the operation of the advertiser. That is, the image output apparatus 1 describes the input URL and title as content information in A format, encodes this content information to generate a 2D barcode, and visually displays the 2D barcode and A format. Print data (output data) is generated based on the sign image shown, and is output to the printer 3 via the USB cable 2. The image output apparatus 1 performs the same process as described above for the B format.

As a result, the paper 4A on which the A-format two-dimensional barcode and the sign image are printed and the paper 4B on which the B-format two-dimensional barcode and the sign image are printed are discharged from the printer 3. These two sets of two-dimensional barcodes and sign images are printed on one advertisement poster together with the character string representing the URL. The completed advertisement poster 5 is displayed in an advertisement space such as a street or a store.
In the present embodiment, as an example, a description will be given using a poster 5 as a paper advertisement medium. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and can be applied to other advertisement media. For example, the above-described two-dimensional bar code and sign image are displayed by an electromagnetic method on a display device such as a television screen, a computer display screen, or an electronic bulletin board, which is also shown in the display object 5 'of FIG. Is also possible. Although illustration is omitted, it is also possible to project an advertisement image including, for example, the above-described two-dimensional barcode and a sign image on a street screen or wall surface using a projector type display device.

  Now, it is assumed that a passerby carrying the mobile device 6A corresponding to the A format passes through this advertisement space, looks at the advertisement poster 5, and wants to know more information about the advertised product. The passerby finds the sign image I1 for the A format from the advertisement poster 5 (see FIG. 2), and moves the two-dimensional barcode paired with the sign image, that is, the two-dimensional barcode B1 for the A format. The machine 6A reads (see FIG. 3). The mobile device 6A decodes the content information from the read two-dimensional barcode. Since the decrypted content information is described in the A format, the mobile device 6A notifies the user that the content information can be transferred to the bookmark registration function (see FIG. 4), and confirms the user's will. After confirmation, the content information is transferred to the bookmark registration function (see FIG. 5).

  When the user inputs an instruction to access the Web using the bookmark thus registered, the mobile device 6A sends the URL constituting the bookmark to the mobile packet communication network 7. As a result, a communication connection is established between the mobile device 6A and the Web server device 9 via the mobile packet communication network 7 and the Internet 8. Detailed information related to the product advertised on the advertisement poster 5 is stored in the Web server device 9, and thereafter, the user can acquire detailed information regarding the product with interest.

[Image output device 1]
[Constitution]
As shown in FIG. 6, the image output apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment has a hardware configuration and an operating system similar to a general notebook computer. In the following description, it is assumed that the operating system has already been activated in the image output apparatus 1.

  The CPU 11 receives an operation signal from the operation unit 12 having an operation element, and executes a command represented by the received operation signal. For example, if the instruction is an instruction to execute a program stored in the nonvolatile memory 13, the CPU 11 reads the corresponding program from the nonvolatile memory 13 and executes it using the RAM 14 as a work area. Further, the CPU 11 reads / writes data to / from the non-volatile memory 13 and the RAM 14, outputs data to the USB cable 2 via the USB interface 15, and supplies image data to the display 16 in accordance with the instructions of the program being executed. I do. The USB interface 15 is merely an example, and any interface that can transmit data to a printing apparatus such as the printer 3 may be used. The USB interface 15 may be a writing apparatus that writes data to a portable recording medium that can be read by the printing apparatus.

  The non-volatile memory 13 stores sign image data M1 to M5 representing sign images that visually indicate the properties of the content information. “Content information properties” refers to information about the amount of information, information format, language used to describe the information, information provider, information usage, and information provision target (for example, information provider targets Such as information on the gender and age group of the user), the type and version of the two-dimensional barcode used for encoding the information, the pitch between symbols constituting the two-dimensional barcode obtained by encoding the information, etc. , Meaning attributes given to information based on various viewpoints.

  The A format label image data M1 is associated with the viewer, the B format label image data M2 is associated with the B format, the Japanese marker image data M3 is Japanese, and the English marker image data M4 is English. Represents an image. Examples of the image reminiscent of the A format include a mark reminiscent of a service provided by a mobile device maker or a mobile communication company adopting the A format. The original sign image data M5 is image data previously stored in the nonvolatile memory 13 by the user of the image output device 1 in order to represent the property of the content information that cannot be represented by the sign image data M1 to M4. The contents are arbitrary.

  The non-volatile memory 13 stores a creation program P for causing the image output apparatus 1 to sequentially execute an input process, an encoding process, and an output process. The creation program P is designed to execute a designated output process, a plurality of output processes, and a combined output process instead of the output process depending on the situation. In addition, the designating process is designed to be executed before the designated output process. In addition, it is designed to execute the synthesis process before executing the synthesis output process.

  The input process is a process of inputting content information. The encoding process is a process of generating a two-dimensional barcode by encoding the content information. The output process is a process of outputting print data so that a marker image that visually represents the property of the content information is printed in the vicinity of the two-dimensional barcode. The multiple output process is a process of outputting print data so that a plurality of marker images that visually represent the properties of the content information are printed in the vicinity of the two-dimensional barcode. The designation process is a process of designating a sign image that visually represents the property of the content information. The designated output process is a process of outputting print data so that a designated sign image is printed in the vicinity of the two-dimensional barcode. The synthesizing process is a process of generating a synthesized image by synthesizing the two-dimensional barcode and a marker image that visually represents the property of the content information. The composite output process is a process of outputting print data for printing the composite image.

  The CPU 11 reads out the created program P from the non-volatile memory 13 and executes it by using the created program P, so that the image output apparatus 1 is provided with input means, specifying means, encoding means, combining means, and output means. , A designated output means, a combined output means, and a plurality of output means are realized.

[Input means]
The CPU 11 uses the creation program P to switch the screens shown in FIGS. 7 to 9 on the display 16 based on the operation signal from the operation unit 12, thereby prompting the input of the content information. When an operation signal is received from 12, it is determined whether or not the operation signal represents content information, and if it is an operation signal representing content information, it is stored in the RAM 14 as content information corresponding to the screen being displayed. At this time, the CPU 11 updates the image of the indicator IG1, IG2, or IG3 in the screen based on setting information described later. These indicators are independent for each screen, and visually represent the ratio of the free capacity in the information capacity of the two-dimensional barcode to be created. As will be described later, since the content information is converted into a character string of a set format, the CPU 11 calculates the above ratio in consideration of the set format.

  As is clear from the above description, the input means includes the CPU 11, the nonvolatile memory 13, the operation unit 12, the RAM 14, and the display 16. Of course, if the content information is modified to be input by receiving information transmitted from a terminal having an operation unit and a display (hereinafter referred to as “Modification 1”), the operation unit 12 and the display 16 are replaced. A communication unit for communicating with the terminal is a constituent element.

[Designation method]
The CPU 11 uses the creation program P to display the screens shown in FIGS. 7 to 10 on the display 16 based on the operation signal from the operation unit 12, so that the format and sign images used for encoding are displayed. While prompting the input of setting information for determining the handling and the pitch of the two-dimensional barcode, when an operation signal is received from the operation unit 12, it is determined whether or not the operation signal represents the setting information, and an appropriate operation representing the setting information is determined. If it is a signal, it is memorize | stored in RAM14 as setting information. In addition, what is listed below is mentioned as handling of the marker image determined by the setting information which is prompted to input by the screen shown in FIG.

・ The size of 2D barcode is large / medium / small.
・ Do you want to print sign images?
-When printing sign images, what is the number (1/2) of sign images to be printed?
Whether to use any of the sign image data M1 to M4 when printing the sign image (designating means).
Which one of the sign image data M1 to M4 is to be specified (specifying means).
・ Whether to use A format or B format.
What to use when none of the sign image data M1 to M4 is used (designating means).
When the number of sign images to be printed is 1, what is the arrangement pattern (side / combination) of sign images and two-dimensional barcodes?
Which composition method (blank / transparent) is used when the arrangement pattern is “composite”.
・ Will automatic correction be performed when the arrangement pattern is “Transparent”?

  The inappropriate operation signal is a signal for selecting the B format mark image data M2 received under the condition that the A format is selected as the format to be used for encoding, or the B format is selected. It is a signal that causes an inconsistent situation, such as a signal for selecting the A-format label image data M1 received under the current situation. Upon receiving such an inappropriate operation signal, the CPU 11 changes the setting information stored in the RAM 14 so that no contradiction occurs. That is, priority is given to the operation signal which arrived later, and inconsistency is prevented. Note that the screen shown in FIG. 10 is also a screen showing the contents of the setting information stored in the RAM 14, and therefore follows the change of the setting information stored in the RAM 14.

  As is apparent from the above description, the specifying means includes the CPU 11, the nonvolatile memory 13, the operation unit 12, the RAM 14, and the display 16 as constituent elements. Of course, in the case of the above-described modified example 1, instead of the operation unit 12 and the display 16, a communication unit for communicating with the terminal is a constituent element.

[Encoding means]
The CPU 11 uses the creation program P to convert the content information stored in the RAM 14 into a character string having a format defined by the setting information stored in the RAM 14, and the character string is encoded in advance. By encoding using the method, a two-dimensional barcode having a bright part and a dark part is generated, and two-dimensional barcode data, which is image data representing the two-dimensional barcode, is stored in the RAM 14.

As is apparent from the above, the encoding means includes the CPU 11, the nonvolatile memory 13,
The RAM 14 is a constituent element.

[Output means, designated output means, composition means, composition output means and multiple output means]
The CPU 11 uses the creation program P to perform an arrangement process for obtaining print data based on the setting information stored in the RAM 14. The contents of the arrangement process differ depending on the contents of the setting information except that the CPU 11 determines the image size based on the pitch and the barcode size defined in the setting information stored in the RAM 14.

[1: When the sign image is not printed]
The CPU 11 adds the data indicating the image size to the two-dimensional barcode data stored in the RAM 14 and creates printing data. Further, the CPU 11 confirms the intention of the user of the image output apparatus 1, transmits the created printing data to the printer 3 via the USB interface 15, stores it in the nonvolatile memory 13, or discards it. To do. The printer 3 that has received the print data prints the two-dimensional barcode on the paper with the above image size.

[2: When printing sign images]
[2-1: When printing one sign image “side”]
The CPU 11 adds the two-dimensional barcode data stored in the RAM 14 to the label image data defined by the setting information stored in the RAM 14, the data indicating the image size, and the two-dimensional barcode data in the printed matter. Is added to the data representing the positional relationship between the image represented by (2) and the sign image represented by the sign image data, thereby creating print data (designated output means, output means). This positional relationship is determined so that the position of the marker image with respect to the two-dimensional barcode is close to the two-dimensional barcode with a margin to be secured around the two-dimensional barcode so as to be read correctly. It is done. Further, when the CPU 11 displays a screen for prompting the input of the instruction for handling the created print data on the display 16 and receives an operation signal from the operation unit 12 in response thereto, the CPU 11 follows the instruction represented by the operation signal. The print data is transmitted to the printer 3 via the USB interface 15 (designated output means, output means), stored in the nonvolatile memory 13, or discarded. The printer 3 that has received the printing data converts the two-dimensional barcode and sign image represented by the two-dimensional barcode data and sign image data in the print data to the image size in the print data. The image is printed on the paper with the image size and the positional relationship represented by the data and the positional relationship data.
As is apparent from the above, the designated output means includes the CPU 11, the nonvolatile memory 13, the RAM 14, and the USB interface 15 as constituent elements.

[2-2: When one marker image is “synthesized” and printed]
The CPU 11 has a two-dimensional barcode (image) represented by the two-dimensional barcode data stored in the RAM 14, and a sign image represented by the sign image data defined by the setting information stored in the RAM 14. Are combined so as to overlap each other, and composite image data representing the composite image is obtained. More specific composition processing will be described separately for the case where the composition method is “blank” and “transparent”.

  “Blank” is a composition method in which a part of a two-dimensional bar code is cut out and a marker image is inserted into the cut out part. The upper limit of the area of the notched portion is determined based on the anti-smudge performance of the two-dimensional barcode used. However, even if the area of the part to be cut out is equal to or less than the upper limit, the part representing the direction of the two-dimensional barcode cannot be cut out. When the combining method defined by the setting information stored in the RAM 14 is “blank”, the CPU 11 combines image data representing a combined image obtained by fitting a marker image to a part of the two-dimensional barcode that can be cut out. Create

“Transmission” is basically a synthesis method that is a flow of the following 1A to 4A.
(1A) The sign image is enlarged to the same size as the two-dimensional barcode or slightly smaller than the two-dimensional barcode.
(2A) The enlarged sign image is superimposed on the two-dimensional barcode.
(3A) The color of the bright part of the two-dimensional barcode is changed to the color of the sign image part corresponding to this part.
(4A) An image of the two-dimensional barcode that has been changed as described above is used as a composite image.

However, if the color of the bright part of the two-dimensional barcode is changed to a low-lightness color, there is a possibility that the reading of the two-dimensional barcode may be hindered. In order to avoid such troubles, there is automatic correction. In the case of performing automatic correction, 3A in the above flow is changed to the following 3B.
(3B) If the color of the bright part of the two-dimensional barcode is different from the color of the sign image part corresponding to this part, the color of the bright part of the two-dimensional barcode is Change to another color that is almost identical.

  The sign image is enlarged because the sign images represented by the sign image data M1 to M5 are all significantly smaller than the two-dimensional barcode, and a sign image having a sufficiently large size is used. There is no need to enlarge the sign image. Of course, when a sign image having a size larger than the two-dimensional barcode is used, it is necessary to reduce the sign image.

The CPU 11 represents the composite image obtained by the flow 1A to 4A described above when the composition method is “transparent” and the presence / absence of automatic correction is “no” according to the setting information stored in the RAM 14. Create composite image data. When the setting information stored in the RAM 14 determines that the composition method is “transparent” and the presence / absence of automatic correction is “present”, the CPU 11 follows the flow of 1A, 2A, 3B, and 4A described above. Composite image data representing the resultant composite image is created (the above corresponds to the combining means).

Further, the CPU 11 creates print data by adding data indicating the image size to the composite image data created by “blank” or “transparency” (composite output means, output means). Further, when the CPU 11 displays a screen for prompting the input of the instruction for handling the created print data on the display 16 and receives an operation signal from the operation unit 12 in response thereto, the CPU 11 follows the instruction represented by the operation signal. The print data is transmitted to the printer 3 via the USB interface 15 (composite output means, output means), stored in the nonvolatile memory 13 or discarded. The printer 3 that has received the print data prints an image represented by the composite image data in the print data on a sheet with a size represented by data indicating the image size in the print data. .
As is apparent from the above, the synthesizing means includes the CPU 11, the nonvolatile memory 13, and the RAM 14 as constituent elements. The composite output unit includes the CPU 11, the nonvolatile memory 13, the RAM 14, and the USB interface 15 as constituent elements.

[2-3: When printing two sign images “side”]
The CPU 11 includes, in the two-dimensional barcode data stored in the RAM 14, two marker image data stored in the RAM 14, data indicating the image size, and an image represented by the two-dimensional barcode data in the printed matter. And data indicating the positional relationship between the two sign images represented by the sign image data are added to create print data (multiple output means, output means). This positional relationship is such that the position of each marker image with respect to the two-dimensional bar code is close to the two-dimensional bar code with a margin to be secured around the two-dimensional bar code so as to be read correctly. Determined.

  Further, when the CPU 11 displays a screen for prompting the input of the instruction for handling the created print data on the display 16 and receives an operation signal from the operation unit 12 in response thereto, the CPU 11 follows the instruction represented by the operation signal. The print data is transmitted to the printer 3 via the USB interface 15 (multiple output means, output means), stored in the nonvolatile memory 13, or discarded. The printer 3 that has received the printing data converts the two-dimensional barcode and sign image represented by the two-dimensional barcode data and sign image data in the print data to the image size in the print data. The data is printed on the sheet with the size and the positional relationship represented by the data and the positional relationship data.

  Although the image output apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment has the above-described configuration, a large image including a two-dimensional barcode and a sign image is generated based on the data indicating the positional relationship, and this image is represented. It is also possible to implement the present invention as an aspect in which image data and data indicating the size of the image are used as print data.

  As is clear from the above description, the multiple output means and the output means include the CPU 11, the nonvolatile memory 13, the RAM 14, and the USB interface 15, respectively. Of course, if the image output apparatus 1 and the printer 3 are not connected by the USB cable 2 but are modified to communicate via a network, a network interface such as a LAN card or a wireless communication unit may be used instead of the USB interface 15. Is a component.

[Operation]
The operation of the image output apparatus 1 configured as described above will be described mainly with reference to FIG.

[Operation example 1]
First, the operation of the image output apparatus 1 in the information distribution system described at the beginning will be described in detail.
The CPU 11 displays the screen shown in FIG. 9 on the display 16 according to the operation signal from the operation unit 12. While referring to this screen, the user operates the operation unit 12 to input content information (bookmark title and URL) and setting information (barcode size). The CPU 11 stores the input content information and setting information in the RAM 14 and reflects the content information and setting information stored in the RAM 14 on the screen. The indicator IG3 in the screen is updated every time content information or setting information is changed.

  Further, the CPU 11 displays the screen shown in FIG. 10 on the display 16 in accordance with an operation signal from the operation unit 12. The user operates the operation unit 12 while referring to this screen to input setting information. Here, the format of the content information is A format, a sign image is used, the first sign image is A format sign image data M1, the second sign image is not used, and the arrangement pattern is “Aside” and the pitch is 0.35.

  Then, when the user displays the screen shown in FIG. 9 using the operation unit 12 and performs an operation of pressing the generation button B1 in this screen, the CPU 11 ends the above information input processing (step S1). The content information stored in the RAM 14 is converted into a character string in a format (ie, A format) defined by the setting information stored in the RAM 14 (step S2), and the converted character string is encoded 2 A two-dimensional barcode is generated and two-dimensional barcode data, which is image data representing the two-dimensional barcode, is stored in the RAM 14 (step S3).

  Next, the CPU 11 determines the image size based on the pitch and the barcode size defined in the setting information stored in the RAM 14, and the two-dimensional barcode data stored in the RAM 14 is stored in the RAM 14. The positional relationship between the sign image data defined in the setting information, the data indicating the image size, the image represented by the two-dimensional barcode data and the sign image represented by the sign image data in the printed matter. Data for printing is added to create print data (step S4).

  Next, the CPU 11 displays the screen shown in FIG. 12 on the display 16 and waits for a user instruction (step S5). Then, the user performs an operation of pressing the print button B3 in the screen using the operation unit 12. Upon receiving an operation signal corresponding to this operation, the CPU 11 transmits the created print data to the printer 3 via the USB interface 15 (step S6: NO, S7: YES, S8).

  The printer 3 receives the printing data and prints a two-dimensional barcode for A format and a mark image for A format on a sheet. As a result, the two-dimensional barcode and the sign image on the paper 4A in FIG. 1 are sized according to the set pitch and barcode size, and the sign image is displayed so that the two-dimensional barcode is read correctly. Printing is performed in the vicinity of the two-dimensional bar code with a margin to be secured around the code.

  After sending the print data to the printer 3 via the USB interface 15, the CPU 11 displays the screen shown in FIG. 12 on the display 16 again and waits for a user instruction (step S5). Then, the user performs an operation of pressing the cancel button B2 in the screen using the operation unit 12. When receiving the operation signal corresponding to this operation, the CPU 11 displays the screen shown in FIG. 9 on the display 16 again (step S6: YES, step S1). At this time, the two-dimensional barcode data stored in the RAM 14 is discarded.

  Then, the CPU 11 displays the screen shown in FIG. 10 on the display 16 in accordance with the operation signal from the operation unit 12. The user operates the operation unit 12 while referring to this screen to update the setting information. That is, the format of the content information is the B format, the sign image is used, and the first sign image is the B format sign image data M2.

  Then, when the user displays the screen shown in FIG. 9 using the operation unit 12 and performs an operation of pressing the generation button B1 in this screen, the CPU 11 ends the above information input processing (step S1). The same processing as described above is performed (steps S2 to S5, S6: NO, S7: YES, S8). In this way, the paper 4B on which the two-dimensional barcode for the B format and the mark image for the B format are printed is obtained.

[Operation example 2]
Next, an operation example in the case of synthesizing a two-dimensional barcode and a marker image with “blank” will be described.
At the time when the information input process of step S1 is completed, the RAM 14 uses the content information format A format, uses the sign image, and sets the first sign image as A format sign image data M1. Assume that setting information is stored in which an eye marker image is not used, the arrangement pattern is “composite”, the composition method is “blank”, and the pitch is 0.35.

  The CPU 11 generates a two-dimensional barcode based on the setting information and the input content information, and stores the two-dimensional barcode data indicating the two-dimensional barcode in the RAM 14 (steps S2 and S3). Next, the CPU 11 determines the image size based on the pitch and the barcode size defined in the setting information stored in the RAM 14. Further, the CPU 11 combines a representative image obtained by fitting the marker image represented by the A format marker image data M1 into a notchable portion of the two-dimensional barcode represented by the two-dimensional barcode data. Create image data. Then, the CPU 11 creates data for printing by adding data indicating the determined image size to the created composite image data (step S4). Next, the CPU 11 displays the screen shown in FIG. Subsequent operations are the same as those in the first operation example.

[Operation example 3]
Next, an operation example in the case of synthesizing a two-dimensional barcode and a marker image by “transmission” without automatic correction will be described.
At the time when the information input process of step S1 is completed, the RAM 14 uses the content information format A format, uses the sign image, and sets the first sign image as A format sign image data M1. It is assumed that setting information is stored in which an eye marker image is not used, the arrangement pattern is “synthesis”, the synthesis method is “transmission”, no automatic correction is performed, and the pitch is 0.35.

  The CPU 11 generates a two-dimensional barcode based on the setting information and the input content information, and stores the two-dimensional barcode data indicating the two-dimensional barcode in the RAM 14 (steps S2 and S3). Next, the CPU 11 determines the image size based on the pitch and the barcode size defined in the setting information stored in the RAM 14. In addition, the CPU 11 displays the marker image represented by the A format marker image data M1 as the two-dimensional barcode represented by the two-dimensional barcode data stored in the RAM 14 or slightly smaller than the two-dimensional barcode. Perform image manipulation to enlarge the size, superimpose the enlarged sign image on the 2D barcode, and change the color of the bright part of the 2D barcode to the color of the sign image part corresponding to this part Then, composite image data representing the image of the two-dimensional barcode after the change is created. Then, the CPU 11 creates data for printing by adding data indicating the determined image size to the created composite image data (step S4). Next, the CPU 11 displays the screen shown in FIG. Subsequent operations are the same as those in the first operation example.

[Operation example 4]
Next, an operation example in the case of synthesizing a two-dimensional barcode and a marker image by “transmission” with automatic correction will be described.
The setting information stored in the RAM 14 at the time when the information input process in step S1 is completed differs from the setting information stored in the RAM 14 in the operation example 3 only in that automatic correction is present. The influence of this difference appears only in the image composition process. In the synthesis process in the operation example 4, the CPU 11 determines the color of the bright part of the two-dimensional barcode for the part of the bright part of the two-dimensional barcode that is different from the color of the corresponding part of the enlarged sign image. An image operation of changing to another color having substantially the same brightness is performed, and composite image data representing the image of the changed two-dimensional barcode is created. As a result, the screen shown in FIG. 15 is displayed on the display 16. Subsequent operations are the same as those in the first operation example.

[Operation Example 5]
Next, an operation example in the case where two sign images are printed “side” will be described.
The CPU 11 displays the screen shown in FIG. 7 on the display 16 in accordance with the operation signal from the operation unit 12. The user operates the operation unit 12 while referring to this screen to input content information (name, telephone number, e-mail address, and memo) and setting information (barcode size). It is assumed that the name and memo are entered in 2-byte code Japanese.

  Further, the CPU 11 displays the screen shown in FIG. 10 on the display 16 in accordance with an operation signal from the operation unit 12. The user operates the operation unit 12 while referring to this screen to input setting information. Here, the format of the content information is A format, a sign image is used, the first sign image is A format sign image data M1, and the second sign image is Japanese sign image data M3. The arrangement pattern is “side” and the pitch is 0.25.

  When the information input in step S1 is completed, the same operation as in operation example 1 is performed, and the arrangement process in step S4 is reached. In the arrangement process, the CPU 11 determines the image size based on the pitch (0.25) and the barcode size defined in the setting information stored in the RAM 14, and adds the two-dimensional barcode data stored in the RAM 14 to the two-dimensional barcode data. The two sign image data M1 and M3 stored in the RAM 14, the data indicating the image size, the image represented by the two-dimensional barcode data in the printed matter, and the sign image data M1 and M3. Data indicating the positional relationship between the two marker images is added to create print data. Next, the CPU 11 displays the screen shown in FIG. 16 on the display 16 and waits for a user instruction (step S5). Thereafter, the same operation as in the operation example 1 is performed, and a sheet on which an image in which a sign image reminiscent of A format and a sign image reminiscent of Japanese is arranged on the side of the two-dimensional barcode is printed from the printer 3 is printed. Is discharged.

  Furthermore, it is assumed that the user changes the first sign image to the B format sign image data M2 and gives an instruction to create and print a two-dimensional barcode while referring to the screen shown in FIG. As a result, the paper on which the image in which the sign image reminiscent of the B format and the sign image reminiscent of Japanese are arranged is printed beside the two-dimensional barcode is discharged from the printer 3.

  Further, the user re-enters part of the content information (name and memo) in 1-byte code English while referring to the screen shown in FIG. 7, and the second one while referring to the screen shown in FIG. The sign image is changed to English sign image data M4, and creation and printing of a two-dimensional barcode are instructed. As a result, the paper on which the image in which the sign image reminiscent of the B format and the sign image reminiscent of English are arranged beside the two-dimensional bar code is printed from the printer 3.

  Furthermore, it is assumed that the user changes the first sign image to the A format sign image data M1 while referring to the screen shown in FIG. 10, and instructs creation and printing of a two-dimensional barcode. As a result, the paper on which the image in which the sign image reminiscent of the A format and the sign image reminiscent of English are arranged beside the two-dimensional barcode is discharged from the printer 3.

  If the image printed in this way is printed on a business card in which, for example, one side is written in Japanese as shown in FIG. 17 and the other side is written in English as shown in FIG. 18, this business card is moved. If the owner of the machine 6A receives it, he / she wants the mobile machine 6A to read the two-dimensional barcode printed on the side of the sign image reminiscent of Japanese when Japanese data is desired, When English data is desired, the mobile device 6A can read the two-dimensional barcode printed on the side of the sign image reminiscent of English.

[Operation Example 6]
Next, an operation example when using the original sign image data M5 will be described.
This operation example is suitable for distributing paper on which only a two-dimensional barcode having content information essential for providing a service that only a specific person wants to use is distributed.
The CPU 11 displays the screen shown in FIG. 8 on the display 16 in accordance with the operation signal from the operation unit 12. The service provider operates the operation unit 12 while referring to this screen, and contents information (destination e-mail address, e-mail title, e-mail body) and setting information (barcode size) Enter.

  Further, the CPU 11 displays the screen shown in FIG. 10 on the display 16 in accordance with an operation signal from the operation unit 12. The service provider operates the operation unit 12 while referring to this screen to input setting information. Here, the content information format is A format, a sign image is used, the first sign image is the original sign image data M5, the second sign image is “none”, and the arrangement pattern is “ "Side" and the pitch is 0.35. The original sign image data M5 is selected by selecting “original” in the screen and inputting information (for example, a path name) for specifying a file including the original sign image data M5.

  When the information input in step S1 is completed, the same operation as in the operation example 1 is performed thereafter. As a result, the paper on which the image (see FIG. 19) in which the sign image represented by the original sign image data M5 is arranged beside the two-dimensional barcode is printed from the printer 3. This sign image is, for example, a face photograph of the service provider.

  If you receive a sheet with only a two-dimensional barcode printed, it is difficult to remember the provider of the sheet after a few weeks. For this reason, the owner of the mobile device 6A, which is the receiver, first reads the two-dimensional barcode using the mobile device 6A and decodes the content information. As a result, when the new mail creation function is activated, the recipient is at a loss as to whether or not the electronic mail created by this function should be transmitted. This is because there is a possibility of being known to a party whose e-mail address cannot be specified. In particular, as shown in FIG. 20, when this e-mail prompts transmission of personal information, it becomes more careful.

  On the other hand, since the two-dimensional barcode obtained in this operation example is accompanied by a photograph of the face of the provider, it is possible to remember the provider. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the occurrence of a situation in which the decoded information is not used even though the two-dimensional barcode is read. When the recipient enters his / her telephone number in the body of this e-mail and sends the e-mail after filling in, the service provider indicates from the title keyword that he / she is qualified. You can know who you are. Therefore, the provision of service is started.

[Operation Example 7]
In the first operation example, when the user performs an operation of pressing the save button B4 in the screen illustrated in FIG. 12 using the operation unit 12, the CPU 11 stores the print data in the nonvolatile memory 13. The use of the printing data stored in the nonvolatile memory 13 is arbitrary. For example, the data is written on the FD using an external FD (flexible disk) drive that can be attached to the USB interface 15 and printed by another computer. You may make it carry out, and you may make it transmit to another computer using the mailer with which the operating system of the image output apparatus 1 is provided.

[Modification of First Embodiment]
Although the first embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention can be implemented even if this embodiment is modified as follows.

  In the operation example 5 of the above-described embodiment, for example, when the mobile device 6B supports only a pitch of 0.25, the two-dimensional barcode of FIG. 17 or 18 cannot be read correctly. In this case, the user of the mobile device 6B mistakes for an operation error and repeats the reading operation. In order to avoid such waste, the image output apparatus 1 may be modified so that a sign image representing a pitch as shown in FIG. 21 can be designated.

  Further, in the image output apparatus 1, only two sign images can be specified at the maximum, but the image output apparatus 1 may be modified so that three or more sign images can be specified.

  Further, the image output apparatus 1 may be modified so that an image reminiscent of various other things such as an image reminiscent of a telephone or an image reminiscent of an e-mail can be designated.

  In addition, even if the format is the same A, there is a possibility that a compatibility problem may occur if the versions are different. Therefore, the image output apparatus 1 may be modified so that an image indicating a version can be designated.

  In the above-described embodiment, only one type of encoding method is used. However, the user may be able to specify from a plurality of types. In this case, since some 2D barcodes look similar, the image output apparatus 1 may be modified so that an image indicating the type of the 2D barcode can be designated.

  In the above-described embodiment, an example is shown in which a sign image reminiscent of Japanese is used when Japanese is included in the content information. However, even if Japanese is not included in the content information, the content information is used. It may be used as a sign image indicating that accessible content is written in Japanese, or as a sign image indicating that the information provider is Japanese.

  Further, when a sign image reminiscent of English is specified, if a 2-byte code is input as content information, the image output apparatus 1 may be modified so as to notify the user to that effect. .

  In the above-described embodiment, if the transmission composition with automatic correction is specified, the color of the sign image becomes a single color. However, if the lightness is substantially the same as the bright part of the two-dimensional barcode, the color of the sign image The image output apparatus 1 may be modified so as to adopt the above.

  In the above-described embodiment, the notebook computer is the image output device 1. However, an arbitrary computer may have the function of the image output device 1. Further, in the operation mode as in the operation example 7, a mobile communication terminal such as a mobile phone can have a function equivalent to that of the image output apparatus 1 as in the second embodiment described below.

[Second Embodiment]
[Configuration and operation]
FIG. 22 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the mobile communication terminal 100 according to the second embodiment of the present invention. As is clear from this figure, the mobile communication terminal 100 is also a computer capable of executing a program. Further, the mobile communication terminal 100 has all the functions provided in the mobile device 6A of FIG.

  The CPU 101 of the mobile communication terminal 100 receives an operation signal from the operation unit 102 including an operation element, and executes a command represented by the received operation signal. For example, if the instruction is an instruction to execute a program stored in the nonvolatile memory 103, the CPU 101 uses the RAM 104 as a work area, reads the corresponding program from the nonvolatile memory 103, and executes it.

  Further, the CPU 101 reads / writes data to / from the nonvolatile memory 103 and the RAM 104, supplies image data to the display 105, and the mobile packet communication network 7 using the wireless unit 106 (see FIG. 24) in accordance with the instructions of the program being executed. ) Via wireless communication, infrared communication using the infrared interface 107, and control of the digital camera 108.

  The nonvolatile memory 103 stores a browser program R. The CPU 101 downloads the creation program Q and the sign image data M <b> 1 to M <b> 4 from the distribution server 200 connected to the Internet 8 using the browser program R in accordance with the operation signal from the operation unit 102, and stores it in the nonvolatile memory 103. Let The non-volatile memory 103 stores a mail program S for creating and sending / receiving electronic mail. In accordance with an operation signal from the operation unit 102, the CPU 101 uses the mail program S to create and send / receive e-mail with non-text data attached.

  The nonvolatile memory 103 also includes an infrared communication program T for performing infrared communication with other devices using the infrared interface 107, a name, a telephone number, an e-mail address, and a memo (arbitrary information) of a communication partner. Is stored, personal information V such as the telephone number of the mobile communication terminal 100 itself, and original sign image data M6 that plays the same role as the original sign image data M5 in FIG. Note that image data representing a photographic image photographed using the digital camera 108 can be used as the original sign image data M6.

  FIG. 23 shows a flow of processing performed by the mobile communication terminal 100 when the CPU 101 is executing the creation program Q. Steps S102 to S104 and S106 in this figure are the same processes as the corresponding steps S2 to S4 and S6 in FIG. Further, step S107 differs from step S9 only in that the output data is stored not in the nonvolatile memory 13 but in the nonvolatile memory 103. The difference between step S101 and step S1 is as listed below.

(1) The CPU 101 provides a user interface specialized for the mobile communication terminal 100. The creation program Q is designed in this way because the display area of the display 105 is narrower than the display area of the display 16, and the operation unit 102 is more restricted in terms of operability than the operation unit 12. Because there is.

(2) The CPU 101 is instructed if the user's instruction represented by the operation signal from the operation unit 102 is an instruction to divert part or all of the information in the telephone book U or personal information V. Information is read from the non-volatile memory 103 and automatically input as content information. The reason why the creation program Q is designed in this way is that there is a restriction in terms of operability related to information input and the idea of effectively using the characteristics of the mobile terminal that personal information is stored. There is an idea that the terminal should be able to input content information easily.

(3) The CPU 101 provides a user interface capable of designating pictographs such as a heart mark as a sign image. In communication between users using a mobile phone, pictograms are often used, and general mobile communication terminals store character data representing various pictograms. The idea of effectively utilizing the existing assets is reflected in the design of the creation program Q. There is also an idea of reducing the amount of transmission data by using character data.

  Step S105 differs from step S5 in that a user interface specialized for the mobile communication terminal 100 is employed and a user interface for inputting a print instruction (print button B3 in the first embodiment) is provided. It is a point not to do. The latter is done because there is no step corresponding to steps S7 and S8. The reason why these steps are not present is that the creation program Q is designed not to handle output. The reason why the creation program Q does not handle output will be described below.

  There are three modes for outputting output data from the mobile communication terminal 100. A mode for displaying on the display 105, a mode for transmitting by attaching to an e-mail, and a mode for transmitting by infrared communication. In either case, the output process is performed using a program other than the creation program Q. Therefore, if the output data is stored in the nonvolatile memory 103, these output modes can be realized using various known programs. In other words, the creation program Q may generate data for output (generation process, designated generation process, multiple generation process, and combined generation process) and handle the data stored in the nonvolatile memory 103. As is apparent from this, in this embodiment, the generation unit, the designation generation unit, the multiple generation unit, and the combination generation unit realized by the CPU 101 executing the generation program Q are the CPU 101 and the nonvolatile generation unit, respectively. Only the volatile memory 103 and the RAM 104 are constituent elements.

[Example of use]
FIG. 24 is a diagram for explaining a state of information distribution using the mobile communication terminal 100. A computer 300 in the figure has an infrared communication function, and can perform infrared communication with the mobile communication terminal 100. In the mobile communication terminal 100, the processing shown in FIG. 23 is performed, and output data including A format two-dimensional barcode data and A format mark image data M 1 is created and stored in the nonvolatile memory 103. It is assumed that

[Infrared communication]
When the user operates the operation unit 102 of the mobile communication terminal 100 to instruct transmission of output data by infrared communication, the CPU 101 is stored in the nonvolatile memory 103 using the infrared communication program T. The output data is transmitted to the computer 300 via the infrared interface 107. The computer 300 receives the output data and transmits it to the printer 3 in accordance with a user instruction. When the printer 3 receives the output data, the printer 3 performs printing based on the output data. As a result, the paper 400 on which the two-dimensional barcode and the A-format label image are printed is discharged from the printer 3. In this sheet 400, the sign image is arranged in the vicinity of the two-dimensional barcode after securing a margin to be secured around the two-dimensional barcode so that the two-dimensional barcode is correctly read. Therefore, the mobile device 6A can correctly read the two-dimensional barcode from the paper 400.

[display]
When the user operates the operation unit 102 of the mobile communication terminal 100 to instruct display of output data, the CPU 101 uses a display program (not shown) stored in the nonvolatile memory 103. An image represented by output data stored in the nonvolatile memory 103 is displayed on the display 105. As a result, as shown in FIG. 25, the display 105 displays a two-dimensional barcode and a sign image for A format. In this display screen, the sign image is arranged in the vicinity of the two-dimensional barcode after securing a margin to be secured around the two-dimensional barcode so that the two-dimensional barcode is correctly read. Therefore, when the user holds the mobile communication terminal 100 over the mobile device 6A, the mobile device 6A can correctly read the two-dimensional barcode.

[E-mail attachment]
When the user operates the operation unit 102 of the mobile communication terminal 100 to instruct that the output data is transmitted as an attachment to an e-mail addressed to the mobile device 6A, the CPU 101 uses the mailer program S. Then, an e-mail addressed to the mobile device 6A attached with output data stored in the nonvolatile memory 103 is transmitted via the wireless unit 106. This electronic mail is transferred to the mobile device 6A via the mobile packet communication network 7 and received by the mobile device 6A. Thereafter, when the user of the mobile device 6A performs an operation to instruct the mobile device 6A to display the output data attached to the e-mail, as shown in FIG. 25, the display of the mobile device 6A is displayed. Displays a two-dimensional barcode and a sign image for A format. In this display screen, the sign image is arranged in the vicinity of the two-dimensional barcode after securing a margin to be secured around the two-dimensional barcode so that the two-dimensional barcode is correctly read. The user of the mobile device 6A can cause other devices to correctly read the displayed two-dimensional barcode.

[Modification of Second Embodiment]
As mentioned above, although 2nd Embodiment of this invention was described, even if this form is deform | transformed as follows, this invention can be implemented.

  The output data output process is configured to be handled by an existing program such as the mailer program S or the infrared communication program T. However, even if the contents of the created program Q are changed so that the created program Q can handle the output process. Good.

  Further, the output data is stored in the nonvolatile memory 103. However, the data necessary for creating the output data is stored in the nonvolatile memory 103, and the data stored in the nonvolatile memory 103 is output at the time of output. It may be modified so that output data is created and output.

  Although infrared communication has been described as an example of short-distance communication, communication of any other method can be employed. The medium used for outputting the output data is not limited to the display device or the communication medium. For example, output data may be stored in a memory card that is detachable from the mobile communication terminal 100, and the memory card may be removed from the mobile communication terminal 100 and carried.

  The distribution server 200 connected to the Internet 8 distributes the creation program Q to the mobile communication terminal 100, but is connected only to the gateway server that connects the mobile packet communication network 7 and the Internet 8 or the mobile packet communication network 7. The server may be modified so as to distribute the creation program Q to the mobile communication terminal 100.

  Also, a server-type modification program obtained by modifying the creation program Q is executed on a computer (for example, a gateway server) connecting the mobile packet communication network 7 and the Internet 8 or a computer connected only to the mobile packet communication network 7 Thus, the output data may be generated in accordance with a request from the mobile communication terminal, and the output data may be returned. The modification added to the creation program Q to obtain the modified program is merely a general modification for changing a stand-alone type program to a client / server type program. In addition, the mobile communication terminal needs to execute a client-type program corresponding to the modified program, but the modified program is designed so that the role can be assigned to the browser program installed in the existing mobile communication terminal. Then, the existing mobile communication terminal can be used as it is.

[Third Embodiment]
[Constitution]
Next, an information providing system in which a display object with a barcode with an identification mark created by the method shown in the first embodiment is linked to an information providing server will be described. Here, the display object is a concept including not only an advertisement poster as a paper medium but also a display such as an image displayed on a display such as a CRT or a liquid crystal display or a television screen, or other electromagnetic methods. .
The system configuration relating to the present embodiment is substantially the same as the system shown in FIG. 1, but differs from the first embodiment in the content of the barcode to be printed. Further, the mobile device 6 used in the present embodiment may be a PDA (Personal digital assistants), a handheld computer, or the like in addition to a mobile phone.

  In this embodiment, the advertiser (that is, the operator of the information providing system) is assumed to be an automobile company that conducts international business development as an example, and this automobile company owns the web server device 9. It is assumed that various information including advertisement of the company's car is provided on the web page. Specifically, this automobile company has opened web pages corresponding to a plurality of languages such as English, Japanese, Spanish, etc., and performs advertising activities and provision of information on its own cars. This is due to consideration of customers who cannot read and write in English. Further, it is assumed that the user of the mobile device 6 is a potential customer of an automobile company and may use either Japanese, English, or Spanish.

  FIG. 26 shows a poster 5A used in the present system. As shown in the figure, under the poster 5A, three barcodes 4C, 4D, and 4E corresponding to each encoding method are printed. Further, identification marks “α”, “β”, and “γ” for allowing the user to recognize the encoding method are attached to the upper left side of each barcode. This corresponds to the fact that, for example, the encoding / decoding method of the bar code differs depending on the manufacturer of the mobile terminal. Each bar code is encoded with the URL information shown in FIG. This URL is a web page URL established by this automobile company where you can see more detailed information related to the advertisement contents of this poster (for example, announcements about new cars that are about to start selling). This is the URL of a web page created in Spanish.

[barcode]
Script data described in C-HTML (Compact-HTML) or the like is encoded in the barcode according to the present embodiment. The script data has an arbitrary data structure and can be interpreted and executed using the barcode processing program of the mobile device 6. Specifically, the script data can include a plurality of URLs in addition to instruction codes such as various data read instructions and write instructions. When the script data is interpreted / executed by the mobile device 6, the script data is included in the script data or in accordance with a trigger stored in the mobile device 6, or the included URL information is used to obtain a predetermined data. Condition determination processing is performed, and one or more URLs are extracted. Specific processing will be described later.

[Mobile equipment]
FIG. 28 shows the configuration of the mobile device 6 used in this embodiment. As shown in the figure, user attribute information is stored in the nonvolatile memory 203. The user attribute information is, for example, the user's age, gender, the type of credit card used for online shopping, and other information specific to the user of the mobile device 6 and can be input by the user. The barcode processing program is in charge of the above-described barcode reading processing, data decoding processing, and script interpretation and execution processing when the decrypted information is script data as described above.

[Operation Example 1]
Hereinafter, an operation example of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 27 and 29. In the upper part of FIG. 27, an enlarged view of the vicinity of the barcode of the poster 5A shown in FIG. 26 is shown, and in the lower part of FIG. 27, a user A who uses the mobile device 6A and a user B who uses the mobile device 6B. It is drawn. In this operation example, it is assumed that only a plurality of URLs are included in the script data according to the language used by the user. Here, as shown in FIG. 27, it is assumed that the user B of the mobile device 6B is an American speaker who speaks English, and therefore desires information in English. Then, it is assumed that the user B is interested in the poster 5A and wants to acquire detailed information about the car printed on the poster shown in FIG. First, the user B looks at the identification signs (“α”, “β”, “γ”) in the lower column of the poster and confirms which encoding / decoding method the user's own mobile station 6B supports. To do. Here, assuming that the encoding / decoding method “α” is supported, the user B recognizes that the barcode “4C” immediately below the identification mark “α” corresponds to the mobile device 6B. . Note that the identification mark does not need to directly represent the encoding / decoding method. For example, the identification mark may represent a company (communication carrier) that provides a mobile communication service by a mobile terminal corresponding to each encoding / decoding method. Even though there are cases where the user does not know the encoding / decoding method corresponding to his / her mobile device 6, it is usually considered that he always knows the communication carrier with which he / she has contracted. It is. Thus, if the user is allowed to identify the barcode to be decoded by the communication carrier, the convenience for the user is further improved.

  Subsequently, the user B holds the mobile device 6B over the barcode 4C and reads the barcode information (FIG. 29, step 201). Then, the mobile device 6 executes the decoding process by executing the barcode processing program of the mobile device 6B according to the trigger embedded in the barcode, decodes the script data, and interprets the decoded script data. (Step S202). Subsequently, the mobile device 6 determines whether or not the script data includes a user attribute information read command code or a trigger (step S203). In this operation example, only the URL described above is included in the script data, so the process proceeds to step S206. Subsequently, in step S206, the mobile device 6 determines whether or not there is one extracted URL. If only one URL has been extracted, the process proceeds to step S208, where the mobile device 6 launches a browser program and sends the URL to the packet communication network 7. In this operation example, since three URLs are extracted as described above, the process proceeds to step S207.

In step S207, a process for determining one URL is performed. Specifically, as described above, the three URLs correspond to Japanese, English, and Spanish, respectively. Here, the mobile device 6 normally operates in a language environment desired by the user. Therefore, the trigger in the barcode automatically causes the mobile device 6 to execute a process of comparing the user attribute stored in the mobile device 6 with each URL and selecting a matching URL. If the desired language is not specified or there is no URL corresponding to the desired language in the script data (for example, if the desired language is German), a default URL is selected.
Further, when the script data does not include information specifying the default URL, the mobile device 6 displays all the extracted three URLs on the display 205 and selects one URL for the user B. Prompt. User B uses the operation unit 202 to specify a desired URL. When one URL is determined in this way, the mobile device 6 activates the browser program and sends the URL to the packet communication network 7 (step S208).

  In step S207, for example, when the user B selects “http://www.xyzcompany.com/EN” which is the URL of a web page in which information in English is written, this URL is transmitted to the packet communication network 7. Is done. As a result, as shown in FIG. 27, a web page in which information is written in English is displayed on the display 205 of the mobile device 6B.

Needless to say, the language supported by the automobile company is not limited to the above three languages. Further, the web page corresponding to each language does not need to be simply a translation of the information content into each language. For example, there may be a difference in specifications between Japanese specification vehicles and North American specification vehicles, and the content of the information posted on the web page corresponding to Japanese and the page corresponding to English may be different. . In addition, it is possible to change the background image of the page according to each language area. In FIG. 27, the user A who uses Japanese also decodes the information of the barcode 4C and displays the Japanese web page “http://www.xyzcompany.com/JP”. An example is shown.
Here, in the URL extraction / determination process described above, the trigger is included in the barcode. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the mobile device 6 may have the trigger. The processing in this case is shown in FIG. The detailed description is omitted because it is the same as the above-described process except that the process of S203A is performed in place of step S203. In this aspect, when a plurality of URLs are included in the script data, the mobile device 6 All URLs are read, and it is determined whether or not there is a URL corresponding to the desired language. If there is a URL in a desired language, the web page represented by the URL is accessed.

[Operation example 2]
Next, an example of operation when the script data includes a trigger for activating specific user attribute information stored in the mobile device 6 will be described. As a premise of this operation example, it is assumed that the automobile company has built a web page that can change the display contents according to the user's attributes (for example, age and gender). The URL of the web page corresponding to each attribute is, for example, “http // www.carcompany.com / mail / 40”, “http // www.carcompany.com / mail / 20”, “http // www. carcompany.com/female/20 "and" http // www.carcompany.com / female / 40 ".
In such a configuration, when information including the URL of the above-described form is extracted from the barcode, user attribute information including information such as age, sex, and language stored in the mobile device 6 serves as a trigger, and an appropriate The URL is selected.

  Hereinafter, this operation example will be described using FIG. 29 again. After the user views the poster, the decryption of information, the interpretation of the decrypted script data, and the extraction process of the URL and various instruction codes are the same as in the first operation example (steps S201 to S203). In this operation example, unlike the operation example 1, since the user attribute information read command code (hereinafter referred to as “trigger”) is included (step S203, YES), the mobile device 6 moves from the nonvolatile memory 203 to the user. The attribute information is read (step S204). Then, a URL that matches the read user attribute information is extracted (step S205).

  Subsequently, the process proceeds to step S206. Here, in step S205, when a plurality of URLs are extracted, there is no compatible URL, or there is no user attribute data in the first place, the URL is changed. If not extracted (step S206, NO), the same URL selection process as in the operation example 1 is performed (step S207). If no URL that matches the user attribute is extracted and no information specifying the default URL exists, the mobile device 6 displays all the extracted URLs and allows the user to select them. Alternatively, the mobile device 6 may automatically select a default URL.

  Note that in the determination of conformity to the user attribute information in step S205, for example, it may be determined whether a specific part of a character string constituting the URL matches or does not match. For example, the user attribute information includes “age”, “sex”, and “language” fields representing age groups and genders. For example, each field of the user A shown in FIG. The age category “3”, “f” representing female, and “EN” representing English as the language used are stored. An example of the URL extracted in this case is shown in FIG. Note that FIG. 30 is merely an example of a URL format, and it is needless to say that any other format can be adopted.

  FIG. 31 shows an example of a web page that introduces a vehicle for sale represented by the URL of FIG. Since this user B is a woman, for example, a photograph of a car model that is most popular among women is posted. Further, the car may be displayed with warm color coloring that the woman seems to like. In addition, for pages for young people, it is possible to create pages that look gorgeous, while for pages for the elderly, it is possible to display large characters and consider readability.

  The page has links to other pages. By following the link, the user can browse a page explaining the detailed specifications of the vehicle type, and can also access a page for purchasing this vehicle.

  In addition, “view other car information” in the same page is linked to a page corresponding to the user attribute information. Specifically, since the web server can know the age of this user from the accessed URL, for example, when this user is in his twenties, a list of car models currently popular with users of this age group is displayed. It is possible to link to the displayed web page.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, as long as the user reads the barcode, URL information suitable for his / her attributes is automatically acquired, and the user can browse the desired information by accessing the URL. Is possible. That is, since the user does not need to perform any input operation such as reading out the attribute information of the user or searching for or specifying the web page that matches the attribute of the user, convenience is improved. Further, for the advertiser side, there is an advantage that information corresponding to the attribute of the user can be provided to the user from the web page starting from the poster or the like by linking the poster 5A and the mobile device 6 together.
In the present embodiment, the trigger is included in the script data. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the mobile device 6 may store the trigger. In this case, the mobile device 6 can select an appropriate URL by reading the trigger stored in the own device in addition to all the script data.

[Fourth Embodiment]
[Constitution]
The system according to the present embodiment is an application of the system according to the third embodiment to an online shopping system such as daily necessities. In other words, the web server device 9 is operated by an online shop, and the user accesses the web server device 9 using the mobile device 6 and browses the web page to select a product and pay for the price.

  In the present embodiment, an online shop operator (hereinafter referred to as an online shop side) distributes a catalog of products handled in-house to customers in advance. FIG. 32 illustrates one page of this catalog. On the same page, a limited-edition T-shirt advertisement is printed. Hereinafter, a case where the user purchases the T-shirt by looking at the catalog at home or the like will be described.

[barcode]
In the script data included in the barcode according to the present embodiment, the online shop specifies a number for identifying the T-shirt (hereinafter referred to as product number information), a plurality of credit cards, debit cards, cash cards, etc. Identifiers for identifying various types of payment cards (hereinafter referred to as card type identifiers) and identifiers for identifying languages used by users (for example, English, Japanese, Spanish, etc.) (hereinafter referred to as language identifiers) A plurality of URLs and triggers. This trigger is a code that instructs the mobile device 6 to read out information necessary for online shopping and other attached information corresponding to a predetermined language. Here, the information required for online shopping is information on the user's language required for displaying the payment screen and the like, and information on the card type required for payment, among user attributes. The introduction of the card type identifier is usually considered in the situation where the user owns multiple credit cards and uses different credit cards depending on the purchase method and the purchase price. This is to specify the type of credit card to be used. For example, when the card is a credit card, there are options of Visa (registered trademark), MasterCard (registered trademark), and American Express (registered trademark). In the present embodiment, the trigger is assumed to be included in the script data, but the mobile device 6 may have the trigger. In this case, the mobile device 6 performs appropriate selection by reading all script data.

[Mobile equipment]
The mobile device 6 according to the present embodiment includes, as user attribute information, information specifying the type of credit card that the user has selected to use for payment, in addition to information about age, gender, and language used. .

[Operation example]
Hereinafter, an operation example will be described using FIG. 29 again. A user who wishes to purchase the T-shirt uses the mobile device 6 carried by himself / herself to decode the script data from the barcode and interpret and execute it (steps S201 to S203, YES). Subsequently, when the process proceeds to step S204, user attribute information is read. Specifically, the language used and the credit card type information are read out. Subsequently, the mobile device 6 extracts URLs that match the read credit card type and language used from the URLs included in the script data (step S205). When there are a plurality of extracted URLs or when no URL that matches the user attribute information is extracted (step S206, NO, and step S207), the same URL as the process described in the third embodiment is used. A selection process can be performed. An example of the extracted URL is shown in FIG. In this example, the user's language is Japanese, the item number of this T-shirt is “123”, and the credit card used by the user is from “xxx-credit” company. Yes.

  When one URL is determined in this way, the mobile device 6 sends this URL to the packet communication network 7 (step S208). Then, as shown in FIG. 34, a payment screen for Japanese users for “xxx-credit” is displayed on the display 205 of the mobile device. In the center of the screen, information on the product to be purchased is displayed. On this screen, the user completes the purchase and payment process by entering the card number and expiration date.

  Thus, unlike the third embodiment, in this embodiment, the online shop side can grasp the product that the user desires to purchase at the time when the URL is accessed, so that the product There is no need to browse through pages with selections or introductory articles. In addition, since information on the type of credit card is acquired, for example, when the settlement screen to be displayed is different for each credit card type (or credit company), the card type is displayed to the user in the case of a conventional online shopping system. Even in the case where it is necessary to prompt the user to specify the desired payment screen, the system according to the present embodiment displays the desired settlement screen without causing the user to perform complicated specification processing. Can do. Since the user only has to input the credit card number on the settlement screen, a quick purchase process is realized, and convenience for both the user side and the online shop side is improved.

  The user attribute information may include a credit card number and a card expiration date. In this case, the user only has to confirm the final purchase / payment, and the convenience is further improved.

  Thereafter, when the user desires to continue to purchase other products provided by the online shop, a page that displays products that match the attributes acquired by the online shop may be displayed. For example, when the online shop side acquires attributes related to the user's hobby other than credit card information and the hobby is “skiing”, when no operation is performed from the user for a predetermined period, It is also possible to automatically display a page displaying a list of ski equipment.

[Modifications of Third and Fourth Embodiments]
In the third and fourth embodiments, it is assumed that the user attribute information is stored in the mobile device 6, but the storage location of the user attribute information is not limited to this. For example, when the result of decoding the barcode is script data and user attribute information is requested, the mobile device 6 is held by a communication company that provides a mobile communication service (not shown) via the packet communication network 7. You may make it request | require the user attribute information of the said user from a service subscriber server.

  The contents (information items) registered as user attribute information can be arbitrarily set by the user. For example, it is considered that there is a user who does not want information related to a credit card to be handed over to an administrator of a web page as an advertiser due to security concerns. For such a user, it can be set not to include a credit card number as user attribute information. Further, even information included in the user attribute information may be set so that reading by the barcode processing program is prohibited. Alternatively, when an advertiser who is determined to be trusted in advance by the user is registered and information on the advertiser's identity is included in the barcode, the verification of the advertiser's identity identified from the barcode and the URL The barcode processing program may determine whether to use the user attribute information for identification.

  Further, basic attribute information (for example, language used) can be written in advance when the user purchases the mobile device 6 or when the manufacturer ships. Further, rewriting by the user may be prohibited for these basic and important attribute information.

[Overall deformation]
Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention can be implemented in various other forms without departing from the main features thereof. For example, the present invention can be applied to other types of barcodes instead of two-dimensional barcodes. Further, in addition to the barcode, for example, the present invention may be applied to a three-dimensional hologram image containing various information. In short, if it is a display object whose information content is difficult to grasp from its appearance, it is possible to realize effective information provision by applying the present invention in a suitable mode. It is.

It is a figure for demonstrating the information distribution system using the image output device 1 which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows a part of advertisement poster 5 produced with the same system. It is a figure which shows a mode that a barcode is read from the same advertisement poster. It is a figure which shows an example of the display screen of the mobile device 6 in the same system. It is a figure which shows an example of the display screen of the mobile device 6 in the same system. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the image output apparatus 1. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen of the image output apparatus 1. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen of the image output apparatus 1. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen of the image output apparatus 1. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen of the image output apparatus 1. FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing performed by the image output apparatus 1. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen of the image output apparatus 1. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen of the image output apparatus 1. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen of the image output apparatus 1. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen of the image output apparatus 1. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen of the image output apparatus 1. FIG. It is a figure which shows the printing content of one side of the business card produced using the print data output by the image output device. It is a figure which shows the printing content of the other surface of the business card produced using the printing data output by the image output device. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an image printed using print data output by the image output apparatus 1. It is a screen displayed on the mobile device 6A in the information distribution using the image output device 1. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an image printed using print data output by the image output apparatus 1. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the mobile communication terminal 100 which concerns on 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the process which the mobile communication terminal 100 performs. 4 is a diagram for explaining a state of information distribution using the mobile communication terminal 100. FIG. It is a figure which shows a mode that a barcode is displayed by the mobile communication terminal 100 or the mobile device 6A. It is the schematic of the poster 5A which concerns on 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure for demonstrating the outline of the system which concerns on 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram showing the structure of the mobile device 6 in the same embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the operation example in the same embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the operation example in the same embodiment. It is a figure which illustrates extracted URL in the embodiment. It is a figure which illustrates a web page in the embodiment. It is a figure which shows one page of the catalog in 4th Embodiment. It is a figure which illustrates extracted URL in the embodiment. It is a figure which illustrates the payment screen in the embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Image output device 6,6A, 6B, 6C ... Mobile device, 101,201 ... CPU, 12,102,202 ... Operation part, 13,103,203 ... Non-volatile memory, 14,104,204 ... RAM, 15 ... USB interface, 16, 105, 205 ... display, 100 ... mobile communication terminal, 106, 206 ... wireless unit, 107, 207 ... infrared interface, 108, 208 ... digital camera, 200 ... distribution server, 300 ...・ Computer, M1 ... A format sign image data, M2 ... B format sign image data, M3 ... Japanese sign image data, M4 ... English sign image data, M5, M6 ... Original sign image data, P, Q ... creation Program, S ... Mailer program, T ... Infrared communication program.

Claims (14)

A storage unit for storing user attribute information;
Reading means for reading content information included in the two-dimensional barcode;
Decoding means for decoding the content information read by the reading means;
A determination unit that determines a descriptor that is included in the content information decoded by the decoding unit and that matches the user attribute information;
Communication means for communicating with the information providing server using the descriptor determined by the determination means as a connection destination;
A mobile communication terminal comprising: a display unit that displays content information received from the information providing server using the communication unit. The movement according to claim 1, wherein the content information is script data and includes an instruction code for instructing reading of the user attribute from the storage unit when executed by the mobile communication terminal. Communication terminal. The descriptor is a URL;
2. The mobile communication according to claim 1, wherein the determination unit performs conformity determination based on whether or not a character string corresponding to the user attribute information is included in a character string configuring the URL. Terminal. The mobile communication terminal according to claim 1, wherein the user attribute information includes information related to a user's language. The mobile communication terminal according to claim 1, wherein the user attribute information includes information necessary for a payment process. The mobile communication terminal according to claim 1, wherein the user attribute information includes information on at least one of a user's age and gender. It further has an input means for inputting user instructions,
When a plurality of descriptors are selected or when a suitable descriptor is not selected, the determining unit displays the fact on the display unit, and the descriptor is based on an instruction input from the input unit. One mobile communication terminal according to claim 1 is determined. A method for acquiring content from an information providing server using a mobile communication terminal including a reading unit that reads content information included in a two-dimensional barcode and a storage unit that stores user attribute information.
A decoding step of decoding the content information read by the reading means;
A determination step of determining a descriptor that is included in the decrypted content information and that matches the user attribute information;
An access step of accessing the information providing server using the determined descriptor as a connection destination;
A content acquisition method comprising: an acquisition step of acquiring content from the information providing server. The content information is script data, and includes an instruction code for instructing reading of the user attribute information from the storage unit when executed by the mobile communication terminal. Content acquisition method. The descriptor is a URL;
The suitability determination is performed based on whether or not a character string corresponding to the user attribute information is included in a character string constituting the URL in the determining step. Content acquisition method. The content acquisition method according to claim 8, wherein the user attribute information includes information related to a language used by the user. The content acquisition method according to claim 8, wherein the user attribute information includes information necessary for a payment process. The content acquisition method according to claim 8, wherein the user attribute information includes information on at least one of a user's age and gender. The mobile communication terminal further includes an input means for inputting a user instruction,
In the determining step, when a plurality of descriptors are selected or when a suitable descriptor is not selected, a message to that effect is displayed on the display unit, and the descriptor is based on an instruction input from the input means. The content acquisition method according to claim 8, wherein one is determined.

Images