TWI770123B - Information processing apparatus, program, information processing method and information processing system - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention improves the anti-counterfeiting feature of an image code. The present invention is an information processing apparatus which is capable of connecting with a printer. The information processing apparatus has a unit which is capable of acquiring information from a printer used to print and a unit which is capable of generating an image code corresponding to an image code based on the acquired information of the printer.

Description

Information processing device, program, information processing method, and information processing system

The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus, a program, an information processing method, and an information processing system.

Various code images are printed on various commodities or commodity packages circulating in the society. The above-mentioned code image is, for example, a one-dimensional barcode, a two-dimensional barcode, a human-readable text (hereinafter, referred to as "human-readable text"), or an image of a combination of these.

Code images are at risk of being faked. For example, there is a risk that non-regular products are marked with the same code image as regular products and sold.

In order to reduce this risk, a technique for preventing forgery of a code image has been conventionally known. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for preventing duplication of a two-dimensional code. Specifically, Patent Document 1 discloses a method of combining two-dimensional patterns including minute shapes in patterns of two-dimensional codes. Small shapes are small enough to be detected by barcode scanners, but are less likely to be copied by standard copying equipment. Thus, duplication of the two-dimensional code is made difficult.

Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2016-19286

However, in Patent Document 1, duplication of the two-dimensional code cannot be prevented by a duplication device capable of decoding a two-dimensional pattern (eg, a high-resolution duplication device). Therefore, the anti-counterfeiting effect of the code image is insufficient.

The purpose of the present invention is to improve the anti-counterfeiting effect of the code image.

One aspect of the present invention is an information processing device connectable to a printer, including: means for acquiring printer information related to a printer used for printing; and generating information related to the acquired printer information based on the above. The code image corresponds to the unit of the code image.

According to the present invention, the anti-counterfeiting effect of the code image can be improved.

1‧‧‧Information processing system

10‧‧‧Smartphone

11‧‧‧Storage

12‧‧‧Processor

13‧‧‧Input and output interface

14‧‧‧Communication interface

15‧‧‧Camera

30‧‧‧Client Terminal

31‧‧‧Storage

32‧‧‧Processor

33‧‧‧Input and output interface

34‧‧‧Communication interface

36‧‧‧Communication circuit

40‧‧‧Printers

41‧‧‧Storage

42‧‧‧Processor

43‧‧‧Input and output interface

44‧‧‧Communication interface

45‧‧‧Camera

47a‧‧‧Head driver circuit

47b‧‧‧Print Head

48a‧‧‧Roller drive circuit

48b‧‧‧Conveying roller

49a‧‧‧Cutter drive circuit

49b‧‧‧Cutter

60‧‧‧Server

61‧‧‧Storage

62‧‧‧Processor

63‧‧‧Input and output interface

64‧‧‧Communication interface

66‧‧‧Input and output interface

68‧‧‧Memory

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of an information processing system according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the smartphone of FIG. 1 .

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the client terminal of FIG. 1 .

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the printer of FIG. 1 .

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the server of FIG. 1 .

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a data structure of the printer information database according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a data structure of a reference information database according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a sequence diagram of printer information update processing according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram of the code image printing process according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a screen example of the process of FIG. 9 .

11A is an explanatory diagram of a first example of a code image according to the first embodiment.

11B is an explanatory diagram of a first example of a code image according to the first embodiment.

11C is an explanatory diagram of a first example of a code image according to the first embodiment.

11D is an explanatory diagram of a first example of a code image according to the first embodiment.

11E is an explanatory diagram of a first example of a code image according to the first embodiment.

12A is an explanatory diagram of a second example of the code image according to the first embodiment.

12B is an explanatory diagram of a second example of the code image of the first embodiment.

12C is an explanatory diagram of a second example of the code image of the first embodiment.

13A is an explanatory diagram of a third example of the code image of the first embodiment.

13B is an explanatory diagram of a third example of the code image of the first embodiment.

14A is an explanatory diagram of a fourth example of the code image according to the first embodiment.

14B is an explanatory diagram of a fourth example of the code image of the first embodiment.

14C is an explanatory diagram of a fourth example of the code image of the first embodiment.

14D is an explanatory diagram of a fourth example of the code image of the first embodiment.

15A is an explanatory diagram of a fifth example of the code image according to the first embodiment.

15B is an explanatory diagram of a fifth example of the code image of the first embodiment.

15C is an explanatory diagram of a fifth example of the code image of the first embodiment.

15D is an explanatory diagram of a fifth example of the code image of the first embodiment.

15E is an explanatory diagram of a fifth example of the code image of the first embodiment.

16A is an explanatory diagram of a sixth example of the code image according to the first embodiment.

16B is an explanatory diagram of a sixth example of the code image according to the first embodiment.

16C is an explanatory diagram of a sixth example of the code image of the first embodiment.

17A is an explanatory diagram of a seventh example of the code image of the first embodiment.

17B is an explanatory diagram of a seventh example of the code image of the first embodiment.

17C is an explanatory diagram of a seventh example of the code image of the first embodiment.

FIG. 18A is a flowchart showing a method of generating the code image of FIG. 9 .

18B is a diagram schematically showing a flow until a code image based on the printer information of the first embodiment is generated.

FIG. 18C is a diagram schematically showing a first example of the code table of the first embodiment.

FIG. 18D is a diagram schematically showing a second example of the code table of the first embodiment.

FIG. 18E is a diagram schematically showing a third example of the code table of the first embodiment.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart of the authenticity determination process in the first embodiment.

FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of a screen of the authenticity determination process of FIG. 19 .

FIG. 21 is a sequence diagram of the code image printing process according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a screen example of the process of FIG. 21 .

FIG. 23 is a diagram showing a data structure of a reference information database according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 24 is a sequence diagram of authenticity determination processing in the second embodiment.

FIG. 25 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the printer according to the third embodiment.

FIG. 26 is a sequence diagram of the code image printing process according to the third embodiment.

FIG. 27 is a diagram showing the data structure of the print authority information database in Modification 2. FIG.

Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail based on the drawings. In addition, in the drawings for describing the embodiment, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals in principle, and repeated descriptions thereof will be omitted.

(1) First Embodiment

The first embodiment will be described.

(1-1) Information processing system

The information processing system of the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of an information processing system according to the first embodiment.

The information processing system 1 includes a smartphone 10 , a client terminal 30 , a printer 40 , and a server 60 .

The smartphone 10, the client terminal 30, and the server 60 are examples of the information processing apparatus.

The smartphone 10 , the client terminal 30 , the printer 40 , and the server 60 are connected to be able to communicate with each other via the network NW, wireless communication, or wired communication.

(1-1-1) Smartphone

The smartphone of the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the smartphone of FIG. 1 .

As shown in FIG. 2 , the smartphone 10 includes a storage device 11, a processor 12, an input/output interface 13, a communication interface 14, and a camera 15.

The storage device 11 is configured to store programs and data. The storage device 11 is, for example, a combination of ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), and memory (eg, flash memory or hard disk).

The programs include, for example, the following programs.

‧OS (Operating System) program

‧Programs of application software (for example, authenticity determination application software) that execute information processing

The data includes, for example, the following data.

‧Database referenced in information processing

‧Material obtained by executing information processing (ie, execution result of information processing)

The processor 12 is configured to realize the functions of the smartphone 10 by starting the program stored in the storage device 11 . The processor 12 is an example of a computer.

The input/output interface 13 is configured to receive instructions from the user of the smartphone 10 from an input device connected to the smartphone 10 and output information to an output device connected to the smartphone 10 .

The input device is, for example, a soft key displayed on a touch panel, a microphone, and a combination thereof.

Output devices are, for example, displays, speakers, and combinations thereof.

The communication interface 14 is configured to control communication with other devices.

The camera 15 is configured to capture an image and generate image data corresponding to the captured image.

(1-1-2) Client terminal

The client terminal of the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the client terminal of FIG. 1 .

As shown in FIG. 3 , the client terminal 30 includes a storage device 31 , a processor 32 , an input/output interface 33 , and a communication interface 34 .

The storage device 31 is configured to store programs and data. The storage device 31 is, for example, a combination of ROM, RAM, and memory (eg, flash memory or hard disk).

The programs include, for example, the following programs.

‧OS program

‧Programs of application software (eg, web browser) that execute information processing

‧Application software that generates images of objects to be printed (hereinafter referred to as "image generation application software")

The data includes, for example, the following data.

‧Database referenced in information processing

‧Material obtained by executing information processing (ie, execution result of information processing)

The processor 32 is configured to realize the function of the client terminal 30 by activating a program stored in the storage device 31 . The processor 32 is an example of a computer.

The input/output interface 33 is configured to receive instructions from the user of the client terminal 30 from an input device connected to the client terminal 30 and output information to an output device connected to the client terminal 30 .

The input device is, for example, a keyboard, a pointing device, a touch panel, or a combination thereof.

The output device is, for example, a display.

The communication interface 34 is configured to control communication with other devices.

(1-1-3) Printer

The printer of the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the printer of FIG. 1 .

As shown in FIG. 4, the printer 40 includes a processor 42, a storage device 41, an input/output interface 43, a communication interface 44, a head drive circuit 47a, a print head 47b, a roller drive circuit 48a, a conveyance roller 48b, and a cutter Drive circuit 49a and cutter 49b.

The storage device 41 is configured to store programs and data. The storage device 41 is, for example, a combination of ROM, RAM, and memory (eg, flash memory or hard disk).

The programs include, for example, the following programs.

‧OS program

‧Programs that control the firmware of the hardware through each circuit

‧Program of application software that executes print processing

The data includes, for example, the following data.

‧Setting information for hardware control

The processor 42 is configured to realize the function of the printer 40 by starting the program stored in the storage device 41 . The processor 42 is an example of a computer.

Specifically, the processor 42 drives the conveyance roller 48b via the roller drive circuit 48a, drives the print head 47b via the head drive circuit 47a, and drives the cutter 49b via the cutter drive circuit 49a by starting the program of the firmware.

The input/output interface 43 is configured to receive instructions from the user of the printer 40 from the input device of the printer 40 and output information to the output device of the printer 40 .

The input device is, for example, a hard key, a touch panel, or a combination thereof.

The output device is, for example, a display, a speaker, or a combination thereof.

The communication interface 44 is configured to control communication with other devices.

The print head 47b is configured to print an image on a print medium. The print head 47b is, for example, a thermal head.

The conveyance roller 48b is configured to convey the printing medium. The conveyance roller 48b is, for example, a platen roller.

The cutter 49b is configured to cut the printing medium on which the image is printed.

(1-1-4) Server

The server of the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the server of FIG. 1 .

As shown in FIG. 5 , the server 60 includes a storage device 61 , a processor 62 , an input/output interface 63 and a communication interface 64 .

The storage device 61 is configured to store programs and data. The storage device 61 is, for example, a combination of ROM, RAM, and memory (eg, flash memory or hard disk).

The programs include, for example, the following programs.

‧OS program

‧Program of the application software that realizes the functions of the server 60

The data includes, for example, the following data.

‧Database to be referenced in information processing (for example, printer information database (described later))

‧Material obtained by executing information processing (ie, execution result of information processing)

The processor 62 is configured to realize the function of the server 60 by starting the program stored in the storage device 61 . The processor 62 is an example of a computer.

The input/output interface 63 is configured to receive instructions from an operator of the server 60 from an input device connected to the server 60 and output information to an output device connected to the server 60 .

The input device is, for example, a keyboard, a pointing device, a touch panel, or a combination thereof.

The output device is, for example, a display.

The communication interface 64 is configured to control communication with other devices.

(1-2) Database

The database of the first embodiment will be described.

The following databases are stored in the storage device 61 .

(1-2-1) Printer Information Database

The printer information database of the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a data structure of the printer information database according to the first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 6, the printer information database includes a "printer ID" field, a "use amount" field, a "replacement number" field, and a "setting place" field. The fields are related to each other.

The "printer ID" field stores a printer ID that identifies the printer 40 . The printer ID is, for example, the serial number of the printer 40 .

In the "amount of use" field, information indicating the amount of usage of the printer 40 is stored. The information in the "Usage" field changes each time the printer 40 is used. The information in the "amount of use" field is updated corresponding to the information transmitted from the printer 40 . The usage-amount contains at least one of the following, for example.

‧Transportation distance of print media

‧Rotation distance of platen roller

‧The number of driving times of the cutter 49b

The "number of replacements" field stores information indicating the number of replacements of parts of the printer 40 . The information indicating the number of replacements includes, for example, at least one of the following. The information in the "number of replacements" field is updated corresponding to the information transmitted from the printer 40 .

‧Number of replacements of the print head 47b

‧Number of replacements of the conveyance roller 48b

‧Number of replacements of the cutter 49b

The "installation place" field stores information indicating the installation place of the printer 40 . The information indicating the installation location includes, for example, at least one of the following. The information in the "installation location" field is updated in accordance with the instruction of the user of the printer 40 .

‧Country code

‧Postal code

‧Address

‧Indicates the code of the job position using the printer 40

(1-2-2) Reference information database

The reference information database of the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a data structure of a reference information database according to the first embodiment.

The reference information database stores information (hereinafter, referred to as "reference information") serving as a reference for authenticity determination.

As shown in FIG. 7, the reference information database includes a "commodity code" field and a "reference information" field. The fields are related to each other.

In the "product code" field, a product code for identifying a product serving as a reference for authenticity determination is stored.

The "reference information" field stores a code image (hereinafter, referred to as a "reference code image") serving as a reference for authenticity determination.

(1-3) Information processing

The information processing of the first embodiment will be described.

(1-3-1) Printer information update processing

The printer information update process of the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 8 is a sequence diagram of printer information update processing according to the first embodiment.

The printer information update process of FIG. 8 is started when a phenomenon (hereinafter, referred to as "update event") accompanying the update of the printer information database (FIG. 6) occurs.

The update event includes, for example, at least one of the following.

‧Printing of images

‧Cutter drive

‧Replacement of parts of printer 40 (at least one of thermal head, cutter and platen roller)

- Designation of the installation location of the printer 40 by the user

‧Initial login to printer 40 by user

‧Internet connection of the printer 40

‧The power of the printer 40 is turned on

‧Update instruction by user operation

The printer 40 performs update of the printer information (S1400).

Specifically, when the processor 42 receives the image sent from the client terminal 30, after printing the image on the print medium, the processor 42 updates the print medium indicating the print medium stored in the printer information stored in the storage device 41. information on the handling distance.

After step S1400, the printer 40 executes the printer information update request (S1401).

As an example, the processor 42 sends the update request to the server 60 via the communication interface 44 . The update request includes the printer ID identifying the printer 40 and the printer information stored in the storage device 41 . The printer information includes information indicating the conveyance distance of the printing medium updated in step S1400.

As another example, when the client terminal 30 executes step S1401 , the processor 32 receives the information indicating the installation location of the printer 40 in accordance with the instruction of the user of the client terminal 30 .

Next, the processor 32 sends the update request to the server 60 via the communication interface 34 . The update request includes a printer ID identifying the printer 40 and information indicating the installation location of the printer 40 .

After step S1401, the server 60 executes the update of the printer information (S1600).

Specifically, the processor 62 specifies the record related to the printer ID included in the update request sent in step S1401 in the printer information database (FIG. 6).

Next, the processor 62 stores the information representing the conveyance distance of the print medium contained in the update request sent in step S1401 in the "usage amount" field of the specified record.

Thereby, the printer information stored in the storage device 61 is updated.

(1-3-2) Code image print processing

The code image printing process of the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram of the code image printing process according to the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a screen example of the process of FIG. 9 .

The code image printing process of FIG. 9 starts when the user of the client terminal 30 gives an instruction to print through the input/output interface 33 .

As shown in FIG. 9, the client terminal 30 executes the acquisition of commodity information (S1310).

Specifically, the processor 32 displays the screen P100 ( FIG. 10 ) on the display.

As shown in FIG. 10, the screen P100 includes input field objects F100a and F100b, and a button object B100.

The input field object F100a is a field for specifying product information related to the product to which the print medium on which the code image should be printed should be added. If the user of the client terminal 30 specifies the commodity code, the date of manufacture, the batch number, and the commodity serial code in the input field item F100a, the processor 32 accepts the specified information (commodity code, date of manufacture, expiration date). , batch number, and product serial number).

The input field object F100b is a field for specifying the printer 40 used for printing. When the user of the client terminal 30 designates the printer ID in the input field object F100b, the processor 32 accepts the designated printer ID.

As shown in FIG. 9, after step S1310, the client terminal 30 executes a printer information request (S1311).

Specifically, when the user of the client terminal 30 designates the button object B100 on the screen P100 ( FIG. 10 ), the processor 32 sends the printer information request to the server 60 . The printer information request includes the printer ID specified by the input field object F100b.

As shown in FIG. 9, after step S1311, the server 60 sends a printer information response (S1610).

Specifically, the processor 62 specifies a record related to the printer ID included in the printer information request transmitted from the client terminal 30 in step S1311 in the printer information database ( FIG. 6 ). .

Next, the processor 62 obtains the printer information of the specified record (the information in the "amount of use" field, the "number of replacements" field, and the "setting place" field).

Next, the processor 62 sends the printer information response to the client terminal 30 . The printer information response contains the obtained printer information.

After step S1610, the client terminal 30 performs generation of a code image (S1312).

Specifically, the processor 32 generates a code image based on the commodity information acquired in step S1310.

Next, the processor 32 generates a code image based on the printer information contained in the printer information response sent from the server 60 in step S1610. The generated code image includes coded product information and anti-counterfeiting information based on printer information. The method of generating the code image will be described later.

The code includes the following, for example.

‧One-dimensional code (as an example, a one-dimensional barcode)

‧ Two-dimensional code (as an example, two-dimensional code, matrix code or stacked code)

‧Encrypted string

‧Combination of the above

Next, the processor 32 displays the screen P101 (FIG. 10) on the display.

As shown in FIG. 10 , the screen P101 includes an image object IMG101 and a button object B101.

The image object IMG101 is a preview image of the generated code image.

After step S1312, the client terminal 30 executes a print request (S1313).

Specifically, when the user of the client terminal 30 designates the button object B101 on the screen P101 ( FIG. 10 ), the processor 32 sends a print request to the printer 40 . The print request contains print instructions for printing the fiducial code image and printing images (eg, images of text, graphics, or a combination thereof).

After step S1313, the printer 40 performs printing (S1410).

Specifically, the processor 42 transmits control signals to the head drive circuit 47a, the roller drive circuit 48a, and the cutter drive circuit 49a based on the print command included in the print request sent from the client terminal 30 in step S1313.

The head drive circuit 47a, the roller drive circuit 48a, and the cutter drive circuit 49a drive the print head 47b, the conveyance roller 48b, and the cutter 49b based on control signals sent from the processor 42, respectively.

Thereby, the code image generated in step S1312 is printed on the printing medium. Anti-counterfeiting information is embedded in the printed code image.

As shown in FIG. 9, after step S1313, the client terminal 30 executes a login request (S1314).

Specifically, the processor 32 sends the login request to the server 60 . The login request contains the code image generated in step S1312. This code image is a code image (hereinafter, referred to as a "reference code image") serving as a reference for authenticity determination.

After step S1314, the server 60 performs registration of the reference code image (S1611).

Specifically, the processor 62 decodes the reference code image included in the registration request sent from the client terminal 30 in step S1314, thereby specifying the product code that identifies the product corresponding to the reference code image.

Next, processor 62 updates the reference information repository (FIG. 7). The following information is stored in each field of the reference information database.

‧The "Commodity Code" field stores a specific commodity code.

‧The "reference information" field stores the reference code image.

(1-3-2-1) First example of code image

A first example of the code image of the first embodiment will be described. 11A to 11E are explanatory diagrams of a first example of a code image according to the first embodiment. The first example of a code image is an example of adding a markup inside the code.

Here, as the code, an example of using a DataMatrix code, which is a type of two-dimensional code, will be described. In addition, the case of using two-dimensional codes other than Data Matrix codes, such as QR (Quick Response) codes, VeriCode, PDF417 codes, Aztec codes, or MaxiCode, is the same as that of DataMatrix codes.

A two-dimensional code usually includes a plurality of data units (hereinafter, simply referred to as "units") arranged two-dimensionally. A plurality of cells have a square or rectangular shape of the same size. Some of the plurality of cells are bright (or white) cells, and other parts are dark (or black) cells. One of the bright cell and the dark cell has a value of 0 (zero), and the other has a value of 1. Therefore, the two-dimensional patterns of light and dark in these cells represent specific information represented by a list of 0 and 1 values.

In FIG. 11A, a mark M (black dot) is attached to the inside of the code area. Mark M is an example of anti-counterfeiting information. The position (coordinate) to which the mark M is added is determined based on a combination of printer information. In this case, the code image includes a code parameter indicated by a value (hereinafter, referred to as "coordinate value") indicating the position of the additional marker M.

In FIG. 11B , two marks M (black dots and white dots) are added to the inside of the code area. As in this example, a plurality of marks M may be added. Among the plurality of cells constituting the two-dimensional code shown in the figure, black dots are added to bright cells, and white dots are added to dark cells. In this case, the code image includes code parameters representing the respective coordinate values of the two markers M.

In the example of FIG. 11C , three marks M (black dots and two white dots) are added to the inside of the code area. In this case, the code image includes code parameters representing the respective coordinate values of the three markers M.

In the example of FIG. 11D, the mark M is not a dot but a circle. As above, the shape of the added mark M may be a shape other than a dot.

In the example of FIG. 11E , the mark M of two circles is attached to the area of the code. Among the plurality of cells constituting the two-dimensional code, black circles are attached to bright cells, and white circles are attached to dark cells.

The mark M may be, for example, a triangle, a quadrangle, an asterisk, other symbols, characters, or a combination thereof. In the case of adding a plurality of marks, the shape may also be different from mark to mark. In this case, the code image contains code parameters representing the shape of each marker.

(1-3-2-2) Second example of code image

A second example of the code image of the first embodiment will be described. 12A to 12C are explanatory diagrams of a second example of the code image according to the first embodiment. The second example of the code image is an example in which one or more marks are attached to the outside of the code or a boundary portion with the outside of the code.

FIG. 12A shows an example in which a specific portion of the alignment pattern of the code (L-shaped thick line in the outer peripheral portion of the code) is blank. In this example, white marks M are attached to three places on the alignment pattern. Mark M is an example of anti-counterfeiting information. As described above, one or more marks M may be added to the alignment pattern.

FIG. 12B shows an example in which three marks M (black dots) are added around the alignment pattern. These marks M adjoin the alignment pattern.

FIG. 12C shows an example in which three marks M (black dots) are separately attached around the alignment pattern. As in these examples, the print position of the mark M may be outside the area of the code.

In the first and second examples of the code image, the code parameters include information on the elements of the code image (the number of markers, the shape of each marker, the coordinate values (X coordinates and Y coordinate)). The processor 32 determines the code parameter according to a specific rule based on the commodity information acquired in step S1310 and the printer information acquired in step S1312.

In both the first example and the second example of the code image, the added mark M is smaller than the size of each unit included in the code. In addition, a relatively small number (for example, less than 1/10) of the mark M is added compared to the respective numbers of bright cells and dark cells. Therefore, there is no case where the code reading is hindered by the addition of the mark M.

n

N/10。在標註n個標記的情況下，代碼參數包含n個座標值。處理器基於代碼參數來決定n個座標值，在其n個座標值表示的位置附加n個標記。n個座標值的組合由印表機信息決定。座標值的組合例如與印表機信息一對一對應。 Let the number of cells in the two-dimensional code (hereinafter, referred to as "data cells") be N, and the number of labels to be added to be n. N varies depending on the type of code, but is, for example, an integer of 20 or more. The number n of marks is an integer of 1 or more and N or less, and in a certain example, 2

n

N/10. In the case of labeling n markers, the code parameter contains n coordinate values. The processor determines the n coordinate values based on the code parameters, and attaches n marks to the positions indicated by the n coordinate values. The combination of n coordinate values is determined by the printer information. The combination of coordinate values corresponds to, for example, printer information on a one-to-one basis.

In addition to the above examples, it is also possible to change the addition of a character label including a character string around the area of the two-dimensional code. The same anti-counterfeiting effect can be obtained by changing at least one of the position, angle, font shape (including size, font, character spacing) and content of the character string according to different items or item groups.

The number of marks M may be four or more.

As the number of marks M increases, the following effects can be obtained.

‧It can improve the anti-counterfeiting effect.

• Even if some marks cannot be recognized due to contamination or defects, the accuracy of authenticity determination can be improved.

(1-3-2-3) Third example of code image

A third example of the code image of the first embodiment will be described. 13A and 13B are explanatory diagrams of a third example of the code image according to the first embodiment. The third example of the code image is an example of adding a character mark around the area of the code.

In the example of FIG. 13A, a character string (an example of a character mark) consisting of numerals, pinyin letters, and symbols is attached to the upper peripheral portion of the code.

In the example of FIG. 13B, the content, position, and size of the character mark CM are different from those of the example of FIG. 13A, and are inclined clockwise. The character tag CM is an example of anti-counterfeiting information.

As described above, the processor 32 may change at least one of the position, the rotation angle, and the font shape of the character mark CM in accordance with the printer information. In this case, the code parameter includes information indicating the content of the character mark CM, the coordinate value, and the font.

(1-3-2-4) Fourth example of code image

A fourth example of the code image of the first embodiment will be described. 14A to 14D are explanatory diagrams of a fourth example of the code image according to the first embodiment. The fourth example of the code image is an example of human readable text.

In the fourth example of the code image, the code contains human readable text in addition to the two-dimensional code. Human readable text is an example of anti-counterfeiting information.

The processor 32 determines the relative position of the two-dimensional code and human readable text in the code image based on the commodity information and the printer information. In this case, the code parameter includes information indicating the amount of displacement from a predetermined reference position in the code image, which is at least one of the two-dimensional code and human-readable characters.

First, the processor 32 generates the code image of FIG. 14A. The code image is a code image generated by referring only to the product information without referring to the printer information. In other words, the code image is an example of a print when anti-counterfeiting measures are not implemented.

As shown in Fig. 14A, the code image contains a two-dimensional code and human readable text consisting of a four-line character string. Human readable text is placed next to the 2D code. Human readable characters represent (01) commodity code, (21) commodity serial number, (10) batch number and (17) expiration date in order from the top. This is the same information represented by a 2D code. There are various ways of displaying human-readable characters, and the display is not limited to the one shown in the figure.

Next, processor 32 transforms the code image of Figure 14A into the code image of Figure 14B. Specifically, the processor 32 changes the relative position of the two-dimensional code and the human-readable characters and the printer information accordingly. For example, the processor 32 makes the positions of the human-readable characters different for each combination of the information of the "amount of use" field, the "number of replacements" field, and the "place of installation" field acquired in step S1610. Variety.

FIG. 14B shows an example in which human-readable characters are shifted upward (+Y direction) by 0.5 mm.

FIG. 14C shows an example in which human-readable characters are shifted to the left (-X direction) by 0.5 mm.

FIG. 14D shows an example in which the human-readable characters are shifted downward (-Y direction) by 0.5 mm and rightward (+X direction) by 1 mm.

The code images of FIGS. 14B to 14D are code images based on printer information. In other words, the code image is an example of a print when anti-counterfeiting measures are implemented.

As above, the processor 32 may also change the relative position of the code and the human-readable text corresponding to the printer information. In this case, the code parameter includes information indicating the respective displacement amounts in the X direction and the Y direction.

In addition, the processor 32 can also shift the position of the code in the same way instead of human readable text.

Alternatively, the processor 32 may shift both the code and the human readable text by one element. In this case, since the number of code parameters increases, the anti-counterfeiting effect can be further improved.

(1-3-2-5) Fifth example of code image

A fifth example of the code image of the first embodiment will be described. 15A to 15E are explanatory diagrams of a fifth example of the code image according to the first embodiment. The fifth example of a code image is an example of a combination of human readable text and markup.

In addition to changing the relative position of the barcode and the human-readable text, the processor 32 adds marks (for example, symbols, graphics, text or string). A tag is an example of anti-counterfeiting information.

FIG. 15A shows an example where both human readable text and dots are located at the fiducials. The code image in FIG. 15A is a code image generated by referring only to commodity information without referring to the printer information. In other words, the code image is an example of a print when anti-counterfeiting measures are not implemented.

FIG. 15B shows an example in which the human-readable characters are displaced upward from the reference position by 0.5 mm, and the dots are displaced upward from the reference position by 5 mm.

FIG. 15C shows an example in which the human readable characters are shifted downward from the reference position by 0.5 mm and shifted to the right by 0.5 mm, and the dots are shifted upward from the reference position by 8 mm and shifted to the left by 5 mm.

FIG. 15D shows an example in which the human readable characters are shifted upward by 0.5 mm and 0.5 mm to the right from the reference position, and the dots are shifted upward by 5 mm and 10 mm to the left from the reference position.

FIG. 15E shows an example in which the human readable characters are shifted downward by 1 mm and 0.5 mm to the right with respect to the reference position, and the dots are shifted downward by 2 mm and shifted to the left by 5 mm from the reference position.

The code images of FIGS. 15B to 15E are code images based on printer information. In other words, the code image is an example of a print when anti-counterfeiting measures are implemented.

According to the fifth example of the code image, the processor 32 changes both the relative position of the code and the human-readable characters and the position of the mark in accordance with the printer information. Thereby, the forgery prevention effect can be further improved.

In the fifth example of the code image, the number of marks may be singular or plural. In order to increase the possibility that the authenticity can be accurately determined even when some of the marks cannot be identified due to contamination or defects, the number of marks may be increased (for example, three or more).

(1-3-2-6) Sixth example of code image

A sixth example of the code image of the first embodiment will be described. 16A to 16C are explanatory diagrams of a sixth example of the code image according to the first embodiment. In the sixth example of the code image, the code contains only two-dimensional codes.

Processor 32 determines the location of the code based on the printer information.

Specifically, processor 32 generates the code image of Figure 16A. The code image contains a rectangular box surrounding the code's perimeter. The code image is a code image generated by referring only to the product information without referring to the printer information. In other words, the code image is an example of a print when anti-counterfeiting measures are not implemented.

Next, the processor 32 changes the relative positional relationship between the frame and the code based on the printer information.

FIG. 16B shows an example in which the two-dimensional code is shifted leftward by 0.2 mm from the position of the reference and shifted upward by 0.2 mm.

FIG. 16C shows an example in which the two-dimensional code is shifted to the right by 0.2 mm from the position of the reference and shifted downward by 0.2 mm.

In the examples of FIGS. 16B and 16C , the code parameter includes information indicating the respective displacement amounts in the X direction and the Y direction from the reference position in the code image for the two-dimensional code. The shifted two-dimensional code is an example of anti-counterfeiting information.

The code images of FIGS. 16B and 16C are code images based on printer information. In other words, the code image is an example of a print when anti-counterfeiting measures are implemented.

(1-3-2-7) Seventh example of code image

A seventh example of the code image of the first embodiment will be described. 17A to 17C are explanatory diagrams of a seventh example of the code image according to the first embodiment. The seventh example of the code image contains no code, only human readable text.

Processor 32 determines the location of the human readable text based on the printer information. Human readable text is an example of anti-counterfeiting information.

Specifically, processor 32 generates the code image of Figure 17A. The code image contains a rectangular box surrounding the area of human readable text. The code image is a code image generated by referring only to the product information without referring to the printer information. In other words, the code image is an example of a print when anti-counterfeiting measures are not implemented.

Next, the processor 32 changes the relative positional relationship between the frame and the area of the human-readable text based on the printer information.

FIG. 17B shows an example in which the human-readable characters are shifted leftward by 0.2 mm from the position of the reference, and shifted upward by 0.2 mm.

FIG. 17C shows an example in which the human readable characters are shifted to the right by 0.2 mm from the position of the reference and shifted downward by 0.1 mm.

In the example of FIG. 17B and FIG. 17C , the code parameter includes information indicating the respective displacement amounts in the X direction and the Y direction from the reference position in the image for human-readable characters.

The code images of FIGS. 17B and 17C are code images based on printer information. In other words, the code image is an example of a print when anti-counterfeiting measures are implemented.

(1-3-2-8) Method of generating code image

A method of generating a code image according to the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 18A is a flowchart showing a method of generating the code image of FIG. 9 . Here, as an example, an example in which at least one dot mark is added to the inside or outside of the code area will be described.

The processor 32 generates a code image corresponding to the commodity information acquired in step S1310 (S13120).

After step S13120, the processor 32 calculates a hash value based on the printer information sent from the server 60 in step S1610 (step S13121). The hash value is a value that clearly represents the content of the printer information. The hash value is less informative than the printer information.

Specifically, processor 32 applies a hash function (eg, a cryptographic hash function) used to obtain a hash value from the original information to the printer information, thereby calculating the hash value. The hash function is preferably designed to generate hash values that are difficult to infer from printer information.

After step S13121, the processor 32 determines the coordinate value of the dot mark corresponding to the printer information based on the calculated hash value (S13122).

Specifically, the processor 32 refers to a code table (for example, a lookup table) prepared in advance and determines the coordinate value indicating the position where the dot mark should be added to the code image (step S221).

The code table can be created so as to satisfy the following conditions, for example.

• The number of dot marks is less than or equal to a predetermined upper limit (for example, four) (in other words, the number of dot marks is limited to make the dot marks less conspicuous).

• The density of dot marks is not more than a predetermined value (in other words, it is avoided that a plurality of dot marks are added to adjacent positions, and the dot marks are not conspicuous). For example, only one marker is attached within an area of 5×5 cells.

• When the dot marks are arranged inside the code image, the burden of reading the code image is reduced (in other words, the code image can be read even by a normal reader without a forgery prevention function).

• The weighted average distance between dot patterns is a constant value or more (in other words, similar arrangements are avoided, so that even if the printing accuracy of some dot marks is lowered, the anti-counterfeiting effect can be maintained).

The code table satisfying the above conditions is stored in the storage device 31 in advance.

After step S13122, the processor 32 arranges a dot marker at the position indicated by the determined coordinate value of the code image generated in step S13120 (S13123).

Thereby, a code image based on the printer information is generated.

18B is a diagram schematically showing a flow until a code image based on the printer information of the first embodiment is generated.

As shown in FIG. 18B, the processor 32 uses a hash function, and based on the printer information, calculates a hash value with a smaller amount of information than the printer information.

Next, the processor 32 refers to the code table, and decides a combination of coordinate values of the dot marks according to the hash value.

Next, the processor 32 generates a code image by arranging point markers at the positions indicated by the determined coordinate values.

As a result, the authenticity determination process can be realized using a hash value with a relatively small amount of information. Therefore, the processing amount of the authenticity determination processing can be reduced.

FIG. 18C is a diagram schematically showing a first example of the code table of the first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 18C , in the first example of the code table, information indicating the correspondence between hash values and combinations of a plurality of coordinate values is stored.

The first example of the code table contains a "hash value" field and a "coordinate value" field. The fields are related to each other.

The "Hash Value" field stores the hash value.

The "coordinate value" field stores a combination of multiple coordinate values.

Thereby, a code image including dot marks can be obtained.

FIG. 18D is a diagram schematically showing a second example of the code table of the first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 18D , the second example of the code table stores information indicating the correspondence between hash values and values for shifting human-readable characters (hereinafter, referred to as “shift values”).

The second example of the code table contains a "hash value" field and a "displacement value" field. The fields are related to each other.

The "Hash Value" field stores the hash value.

The "Displacement Value" field stores the displacement value.

This code table can be designed to satisfy the following conditions, for example.

‧The change of layout can be recognized by visual observation or mechanical reading, and it is inconspicuous (for example, the value within the range of about 0 to 2.5 mm per 0.5 mm is used as the amount of change for each of the ±X direction and the ±Y direction) .

• Changes in layout patterns do not become timing (in other words, it is difficult to infer layout patterns from information such as serial numbers).

‧The layout pattern is evenly distributed (in other words, human readable characters cannot be placed in a specific place with high frequency).

Accordingly, a code image containing human-readable characters can be obtained.

FIG. 18E is a diagram schematically showing a third example of the code table of the first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 18E , the third example of the code table stores information indicating the correspondence between hash values and information for converting the layout of word strings or symbols (hereinafter, referred to as “layout conversion information”).

The third example of the code table contains a "hash value" field and a "layout change information" field. The fields are related to each other.

The "Hash Value" field stores the hash value.

The "Layout Transformation Information" field stores the coordinate values of the dot marks and information used to transform the layout of the character string or symbol (eg, rotation, shift element, font of word, size of word, spacing of words, and combinations thereof) The combination.

This code table can be designed to satisfy the following conditions, for example.

• The transformation method is not time sequence (in other words, it is difficult to infer the layout pattern from information such as serial numbers).

• The modes of transformation are equally distributed (in other words, there is no case where a particular mode occurs with a higher frequency).

• The ways of transformation are not similar to each other (in other words, the anti-counterfeiting effect can be maintained even if the printing accuracy is reduced).

Thereby, a code image including a combination of dot marks and character strings or symbols can be obtained.

(1-3-3) Authenticity judgment processing

The authenticity determination processing of the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 19 is a flowchart of the authenticity determination process in the first embodiment. FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of a screen of the authenticity determination process of FIG. 19 .

The authenticity determination process of FIG. 19 is started when the user of the smartphone 10 gives an instruction to start the program of the authenticity determination application software via the input/output interface 13 .

As shown in FIG. 19, the smartphone 10 executes the acquisition of the code image (S1120).

Specifically, the processor 12 displays the screen P110 ( FIG. 20 ) on the display. As shown in FIG. 20 , the screen P110 includes the image object IMG110. The image object IMG 110 is a preview image of a code image (hereinafter, referred to as "object code image") captured by the camera 15 . The object code image is, for example, a code image printed on a printing medium added to a commodity.

If the user of the smart phone 10 designates the button object B110 , the processor 12 stores the object code image in the storage device 11 .

After step S1120, the processor 12 executes the authenticity determination request (S1121).

Specifically, the processor 12 sends the authenticity determination request to the server 60 . The authenticity determination request includes the object code image acquired in step S1120.

After step S1121, the server 60 performs a true-false determination (S1620).

Specifically, the processor 62 decodes the article code image transmitted from the smartphone 10 in step S1121, and identifies the article code of the article to be determined.

Next, the processor 62 refers to the reference information database (FIG. 7) updated in step S1611, and specifies the reference code image related to the specified commodity code.

Next, the processor 62 compares the specified reference code image with the object code image included in the determination request sent in step S1121.

The processor 62 determines that the object code image is "real" when the reference code image matches the object code image. On the other hand, when the reference code image does not match the object code image, the processor 62 determines that the object code image is "forged".

After step S1620, the server 60 executes a true-false determination response (S1621).

Specifically, the processor 62 sends a true-false determination response to the smart phone 10 . The authenticity determination response includes the determination result of step S1620 ("true" or "forged").

After step S1621, the smartphone 10 executes the notification of the determination result (step S1122).

Specifically, the processor 12 displays the screen P111 ( FIG. 20 ) on the display. As shown in FIG. 20, the screen P111 displays the determination result included in the authenticity determination response sent from the server 60 in step S1621.

Thereby, the user of the smartphone 10 can confirm the authenticity of the code image attached to the product.

(2) Second Embodiment

The second embodiment will be described. The second embodiment is an example in which the printer 40 executes a login request before printing. The same description as the first embodiment is omitted.

(2-1) Code image print processing

The code image printing process of the second embodiment will be described. FIG. 21 is a sequence diagram of the code image printing process according to the second embodiment. FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a screen example of the process of FIG. 21 . FIG. 23 is a diagram showing a data structure of a reference information database according to the second embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 21 , the client terminal 30 executes step S1310 in the same manner as in the first embodiment ( FIG. 9 ), and then executes a print request ( S2300 ).

Specifically, the processor 32 displays the screen P200 ( FIG. 22 ) on the display. As shown in FIG. 22, the screen P200 includes input field objects F100a and F100b (FIG. 10), and a button object B200.

If the user of the client terminal 30 designates the button object B200 , the processor 32 sends a print request to the printer 40 . The print request contains the commodity information specified by the input field object F100a.

After step S2300, the printer 40 executes the acquisition of printer information (S2400).

Specifically, the processor 42 acquires the printer information updated in step S1400 ( FIG. 8 ) from the storage device 41 .

After step S2400, the printer 40 executes a login request (S2401).

Specifically, the processor 42 sends the login request to the server 60 . The registration request includes the commodity information included in the print request transmitted from the client terminal 30 in step S2300 , the printer information acquired in step S2400 , and the printer ID for identifying the printer 40 .

After step S2401, the server 60 performs registration of the reference information (S2600).

Specifically, the processor 62 stores the commodity information, the printer information, and the printer ID included in the registration request sent from the printer 40 in step S2401 in the storage device 61 in association with each other.

Thereby, the reference information database is constructed (FIG. 23).

The reference information database stores reference information.

As shown in FIG. 23 , the reference information database includes a “commodity code” field and a “reference information” field. The "reference information" field includes a "printer ID" field, a "use amount" field, a "replacement number" field, and a "setting place" field. The fields are related to each other.

The "Item Code" field stores the item information included in the login request.

The "Printer ID" field stores the printer ID included in the login request.

The "Amount of Use" field, the "Number of Changes" field, and the "Setup Location" field store the printer information included in the login request.

(2-2) Authenticity judgment processing

The authenticity determination processing of the second embodiment will be described. FIG. 24 is a sequence diagram of authenticity determination processing in the second embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 24 , after the smartphone 10 executes steps S1120 and S1121 in the same manner as in the first embodiment ( FIG. 19 ), the server 60 executes the authenticity determination ( S2610 ).

Specifically, the processor 62 decodes the article code image transmitted from the smartphone 10 in step S1121, thereby specifying the article code and printer information of the article identified as the determined article.

Next, the processor 62 specifies the printer information (hereinafter, referred to as "reference printer information") stored in association with the specified commodity code in the reference information database (FIG. 23).

Next, the processor 62 compares the specified printer information from the object code image with the specified reference printer information.

The processor 62 determines that the object code image is genuine when the printer information specified from the object code image matches the reference printer information. On the other hand, the processor 62 determines that the object code image is forged when the printer information specified from the object code image does not match the reference printer information.

After step S2610, the server 60 executes a true-false determination response (S1621) as in the first embodiment (FIG. 19).

According to the second embodiment, even when the client terminal 30 cannot generate a code image embedded with anti-counterfeiting information (for example, an application software having a function to generate the code image is not installed), the anti-counterfeiting effect can be improved.

(3) Third Embodiment

A third embodiment will be described. The third embodiment is an example in which the printer 40 executes the login request after printing. The same description as the first embodiment and the second embodiment is omitted.

(3-1) Printer

The printer of the third embodiment will be described. FIG. 25 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the printer according to the third embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 25 , the printer 40 includes a camera 45 in addition to the same configuration as that of the first embodiment ( FIG. 4 ).

The camera 45 is arranged so as to face the printing surface (the surface on which the code image is printed) of the printing medium issued from the issuing port of the printer 40 . The camera 45 is configured to capture an image of the printing surface of the printing medium when the conveyance of the printing medium on which the code image is printed is stopped (in other words, when it is issued from the outlet).

In addition, the camera 45 may be built in the printer, or may be connected to the outside of the printer 40 via the communication interface 44 or the like.

(3-2) Code image print processing

The code image printing process of the third embodiment will be described. FIG. 26 is a sequence diagram of the code image printing process according to the third embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 26 , the client terminal 30 executes steps S1310 and S2300 as in the second embodiment ( FIG. 21 ).

After step S2300, the printer 40 executes steps S2400 and S1410, and then executes the acquisition of the code image (S3400) as in the second embodiment (FIG. 21).

Specifically, the camera 45 captures an image of the printing surface of the printing medium when the conveyance of the printing medium on which the code image is printed is stopped.

Next, the processor 42 generates a code image corresponding to the code image printed on the printing surface.

Next, the processor 42 stores the generated code image in the storage device 41 .

After step S3400, the printer 40 executes the login request (S3401).

Specifically, the processor 42 sends the login request to the server 60 . The login request includes the printer information acquired in step S2400 , the code image acquired in S3400 , and a printer ID for identifying the printer 40 .

After step S3401, the server 60 performs registration of the reference code image (S3600).

Specifically, the processor 62 decodes the reference code image included in the registration request sent from the printer 40 in step S3401, thereby specifying the product code that identifies the product corresponding to the reference code image.

Next, the processor 62 stores the specified commodity code and the reference code image in the storage device 61 in association with each other.

According to the third embodiment, even when the code image cannot be generated by the client terminal 30 (for example, the application software having the function of generating the code image is not installed), the anti-counterfeiting effect can be improved.

In addition, the reference code image corresponding to the code image actually printed by the printer 40 is registered, so the reference code image reflects the printing characteristics of the printer 40 (eg, print density, print offset, etc.) , printed fly white) corresponding to the reference code image. Therefore, the forgery prevention effect can be further improved.

(4) Modifications

Modifications will be described.

(4-1) Modification 1

Modification 1 will be described. Modification 1 is an example in which forgery prevention information based on a combination of printer information and commodity information is embedded in a code image.

The client terminal 30 or the printer 40 of Modification 1 embeds the forgery prevention information based on the combination of the printer information and the commodity information into the code image.

As an example, in step S1312 ( FIG. 9 ), the processor 32 responds the included printer information based on the commodity information obtained in step S1310 and the printer information sent from the server 60 in step S1610 The combined anti-counterfeiting information embeds the code image.

According to Modification 1, since the information serving as the reference of the code image increases, the forgery prevention effect can be further improved.

(4-2) Modification 2

Modification 2 will be described. Modification 2 is an example in which the authority to print is given to the printer 40 for each code image.

(4-2-1) Printing permission information database

The print authority information database of Modification 2 will be described. FIG. 27 is a diagram showing the data structure of the print authority information database in Modification 2. FIG.

The printing authority information database is pre-stored in the storage device 61 .

As shown in FIG. 27 , the print authority information database includes a field of "Commodity Code" and a field of "Printer ID". The fields are related to each other.

The "Commodity Code" field stores the commodity code.

The "printer ID" field stores a printer ID that identifies the printer 40 that allows printing of the code image corresponding to the product code in the "product code" field.

(4-2-2) Code image print processing

The code image print processing of Modification 2 will be described.

In step S1311 ( FIG. 9 ), the processor 32 of Modification 2 transmits the printer information request including the commodity code acquired in S1310 .

In step S1610, the processor 62 of Modification 2 refers to the print authority information database (Fig. 27). The processor 62 specifies a record related to the commodity code included in the printer information request sent from the client terminal 30 in step S1311 in the print authority information database.

Next, processor 62 compares the identified record's printer ID with the printer ID contained in the printer information request.

If the printer ID of the specified record matches the printer ID included in the printer information request, the processor 62 sends the same printer information response as in the first embodiment.

When the printer ID of the specified record does not match the printer ID included in the printer information request, the processor 62 transmits a message containing a message indicating that printing is prohibited (hereinafter, referred to as "prohibition message"). Printer message response.

When the printer information response sent in step S1610 contains a prohibition message, the processor 32 displays the prohibition message on the display instead of steps S1312 to S1313.

According to Modification 2, it is possible to prevent printing using a printer other than the printer associated with the product in advance. Thereby, the forgery prevention effect can be further improved.

(4-3) Modification 3

Modification 3 will be described. In the present embodiment, it is shown that the processor 32, in step S1312, generates a code image (eg, FIG. 11A ) for which anti-counterfeiting measures are not implemented, and then embeds anti-counterfeiting information into the code image, thereby generating a code image that implements anti-counterfeiting measures. example of a code image (eg, Figure 11B).

On the other hand, Modification 3 is an example in which a code image for which anti-counterfeiting measures are not implemented is not generated, and a code image for which anti-counterfeiting measures are implemented is generated by one processing.

As an example, in step S1312 , the processor 32 generates a code image (eg, the image in FIG. 14B ) containing anti-counterfeiting information based on the commodity information and the printer information. This makes it possible to obtain a code image for which anti-counterfeiting measures have been implemented in one process.

(4-4) Modification 4

Modification 4 will be described. In this embodiment, a print command is registered as reference information.

As an example, the login request sent from the client terminal 30 in step S1314 (FIG. 9) includes: the product code included in the product information acquired in S1310; and the printout sent from the client terminal 30 in step S1313 The print command contained in the request.

In step S1611, the processor 62 updates the reference information database (FIG. 7). The following information is stored in each field of the reference information database.

• The "product code" field stores the product code included in the registration request sent in step S1314.

‧The "Basic Information" field stores the print command included in the login request.

According to Variation 4, it is possible to compare the print commands, so that authenticity determination can be realized.

30‧‧‧Client Terminal

40‧‧‧Printers

60‧‧‧Server

P100‧‧‧Screen

P101‧‧‧Screen

S1310~S1314, S1410, S1610~S1611‧‧‧Steps

Claims (12)

An information processing apparatus which can be connected to a printer, the information processing apparatus including: means for acquiring printer information related to a printer used for printing; and information using a code image as a criterion for authenticity determination means for registering; and means for generating the code image based on the acquired printer information. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: means for instructing the printer to print the code image. The information processing device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the means for acquiring printer information further acquires commodity information related to the commodity, and the means for generating the code image is based on the acquired commodity information and the print A combination of table machine information generates the code image. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the printer information includes information indicating the usage amount of the printer, information indicating the number of times of replacement of parts of the printer, information indicating the at least one of the information describing the installation location of the printer. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the printer information includes a printer ID for identifying the printer, and the information processing apparatus further includes the acquired printer information A unit that prohibits generation of the code image when the included printer ID is different from the predetermined printer ID. A program for causing a computer to function as each unit described in any one of claims 1 to 5. An information processing method, wherein a computer includes: a step of acquiring printer information related to a printer used for printing; The step of generating a code image based on the obtained printer information; the step of making a registration request to a reference information database based on the code image as a reference for authenticity determination. An information processing system includes a printer, a client terminal, and a server. In the information processing system, the printer is provided with a printer ID that identifies the printer and a printer ID associated with the printer. means for sending the printer information to the server, the server including a means for storing the printer ID sent from the printer in association with the printer information, and the client The terminal includes: means for acquiring, from the server, printer information associated with the printer ID; and means for generating a code image based on the acquired printer information, and the server further includes: A means for registering the code image as the information of the reference for authenticity determination. The information processing system according to claim 8, wherein the client terminal further includes means for instructing the printer to print the code image. The information processing system according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the printer information includes information indicating the usage amount of the printer, information indicating the number of times of replacement of parts of the printer, information indicating the at least one of the information describing the installation location of the printer. The information processing system according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the unit for obtaining printer information further obtains product information related to the product, and the unit for generating the code image is based on the obtained product information and the print A combination of table machine information generates the code image. The information processing system according to any one of claim 8 or 9, wherein the server further includes: a unit for storing a printer ID for identifying a printer that allows printing; and in the storage A unit that prohibits the generation of the code image when the printer ID of the printer does not match the printer ID that identifies the printer used for printing.

Images