Patent ID: 12190200

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present aspect will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the following description of the preferred embodiment is merely an example in essence, and is not intended to limit the present aspect, its application, or its use.

FIG.1is a view schematically illustrating the operation time of a stationary code reader1according to an embodiment of the present aspect, and also illustrates a computer100, a display unit42, and the like that constitute a part of an installation support device A of the stationary code reader1.

In the example illustrated inFIG.1, a plurality of workpieces W are conveyed in a direction of arrow Y inFIG.1in the state of being placed on an upper surface of a conveying belt conveyor B, the code reader1according to the embodiment is installed at a place separated upward from the workpieces W. The workpiece W sometimes flows not only in the central portion of the upper surface of the conveying belt conveyor B in a width direction but also on one side and the other side in the state of being offset in the width direction, and the workpiece W does not always pass through a fixed position.

The code reader1can be used, for example, in a distribution center or the like. Conveyed objects (workpieces W) having various sizes and shapes are conveyed at high speed on the conveying belt conveyor B installed in the distribution center. In addition, an interval between the workpieces W in a conveying direction is also set to be narrow. Further, the workpiece W has a plurality of codes (not illustrated) in some cases, but has only one code in other cases. The code may be a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code.

As illustrated inFIG.1, the code reader1is a device that optically reads the code attached to the workpiece W, and is specifically configured to be capable of capturing the code attached to the workpiece W to generate a read image and executing a decoding process of the code included in the generated read image to output a decoding result.

The code reader1is used by being fixed to a bracket or the like (not illustrated) so as not to move during its operation, but may be operated while being gripped and moved by a robot (not illustrated) or a user. In addition, the code of the workpiece W in a stationary state may be read by the code reader1. The operation time is the time during which an operation of reading codes of the workpieces W sequentially conveyed by the conveying belt conveyor B is performed. The code reader1of the present embodiment is suitable for a situation where it is desired to read the code attached to the workpiece W whose position varies, but it not limited thereto, and can be also used even in the case of reading the code attached to the workpiece W whose position does not vary.

As illustrated inFIG.1, the code reader1is connected to the computer100and a programmable logic controller (PLC)101constituting a part of an external control device and a part of an installation support device in a wired manner by signal lines101a, respectively. However, the aspect is not limited thereto, and the code reader1, the computer100, and the PLC101may have built-in communication modules to wirelessly connect the code reader1with the computer100and the PLC101. The PLC101is a control device configured for sequence control of the conveying belt conveyor B and the code reader1, and can use a general-purpose PLC.

The computer100can use a general-purpose or dedicated electronic computer, a portable terminal, or the like. In this example, a so-called personal computer is used, and includes a control unit40, a storage device41, and a communication unit44as illustrated inFIG.2. As the code reader1is downsized, it is difficult to make all the settings of the code reader1only with the display unit7, buttons8and9, and the like (illustrated inFIG.3) of the code reader1, and thus, the computer100may be prepared separately from the code reader1, and various settings of the code reader1may be made on the computer100to transfer setting information to the code reader1.

In addition, since the computer100includes the communication unit44, the computer100and the code reader1may be connected to enable bidirectional communication such that a part of processing of the code reader1described above is performed by the computer100. In this case, a part of the computer100serves as some components of the code reader1.

In addition, the code reader1receives a reading start trigger signal that defines a code reading start timing from the PLC101via the signal line101aduring its operation time Further, the code reader1performs imaging and a decoding process of the workpiece W based on the reading start trigger signal. In this manner, during the operation time of the code reader1, the input of the reading start trigger signal and the output of the decoding result are repeatedly performed via the signal line101abetween the code reader1and the external control device such as the PLC101. Note that the input of the reading start trigger signal and the output of the decoding result may be performed via the signal line101abetween the code reader1and the PLC101as described above, or may be performed via another signal line (not illustrated). For example, a sensor configured to detect arrival of the workpiece W at a predetermined position and the code reader1are directly connected to each other to input the reading start trigger signal from the sensor to the code reader1.

[Overall Configuration of Code Reader1]

As illustrated inFIGS.4to6, the code reader1includes a housing2and a front cover3. Configurations of the illumination unit4and the imaging unit5will be described later. The aimer6is configured using, for example, a light emitting body such as a light emitting diode. The aimer6is configured to emit light toward the front of the code reader1to indicate an imaging range of the imaging unit5and a guideline for an optical axis of the illumination unit4. A user can also refer to the light emitted from the aimer6to install the code reader1.

In addition, one end surface of the housing2is provided with the display unit7, a select button8, an enter button9, and an indicator10as illustrated inFIG.5. A configuration of the display unit7will be described later. The select button8and the enter button9are buttons used for setting or the like of the code reader1, and are connected to a control section20. The control section20can detect operating states of the select button8and the enter button9. The select button8is a button that is operated when selecting one from among a plurality of options displayed on the display unit7. The enter button9is a button that is operated when confirming a result selected by the select button8. The indicator10is connected to the control section20and can be configured using a light emitting body such as a light emitting diode. The operating state of the code reader1can be notified to the outside by a lighting state of the indicator10.

In addition, a power connector11, a network connector12, a serial connector13, and a USB connector14are provided on the other end surface of the housing2as illustrated inFIG.6. In addition, a heat sink15serving as a rear case is provided on a back surface of the housing2. A power wiring configured to supply power to the code reader1is connected to the power connector11. The serial connector13corresponds to the signal lines100aand101aconnected to the computer100and the PLC101, and the network connector12is an Ethernet connector. Note that the Ethernet standard is an example, and signal lines of standards other than the Ethernet standard can be also used.

Further, the control section20, a storage device50, an output unit60, and the like illustrated inFIG.3are provided inside the housing2. These will be described later.

Although the front surface and the back surface of the code reader1are defined as described above in the description of the present embodiment, this is given merely to achieve the convenience of the description, and does not limit the orientation during the operation time of the code reader1. That is, as illustrated inFIG.1, the code reader1can be installed and used with the front surface directed substantially downward, the code reader1can be installed and used with the front surface directed upward, the code reader1can be installed and used with the front surface directed downward and inclined, or the code reader1can be installed and used with the front surface extending along a vertical plane.

[Configuration of Illumination Unit4]

As indicated by the broken line inFIG.1, the illumination unit4is a member configured to emit light toward an area through which the workpiece W conveyed by the conveying belt conveyor B passes. The light emitted from the illumination unit4illuminates at least a predetermined range in the conveying direction of the conveying belt conveyor B. This predetermined range is a range wider than a dimension in the same direction of the largest workpiece W assumed to be conveyed during the operation time. The illumination unit4illuminates the first code CD1and the second code CD2attached to the workpiece W conveyed by the conveying belt conveyor B.

The illumination unit4includes a light emitting body4amade of a light emitting diode or the like, for example, and the light emitting body4amay be one, or a plurality of light emitting bodies4amay be provided. In this example, the plurality of light emitting bodies4aare provided, and the imaging unit5faces the outside between the light emitting bodies4a. In addition, the light of the aimer6is emitted from a portion between the light emitting bodies4a. The illumination unit4is electrically connected to an imaging control unit22of the control section20and can be controlled by the control section20to be turned on and off at arbitrary timings.

In this example, the illumination unit4and the imaging unit5are mounted on the single housing2to be integrated, but the illumination unit4and the imaging unit5may be configured as separate bodies. In this case, the illumination unit4and the imaging unit5can be connected in a wired or wireless manner. In addition, the control section20, which will be described later, may be built in the illumination unit4or the imaging unit5. The illumination unit4mounted on the housing2is referred to as an internal lighting, and the illumination unit4configured as a separate body from the housing2is referred to as an external lighting. It is also possible to illuminate the workpiece W using both the internal lighting and the external lighting.

[Configuration of Imaging Unit5]

FIG.3is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the code reader1. The imaging unit5is a member configured to receive light emitted from the illumination unit4and reflected from an area through which the workpiece W passes, and generate a read image obtained by capturing the image of the area through which the workpiece W passes. As the imaging unit5, an area camera in which pixels are arrayed vertically and horizontally (X direction and Y direction) can be used. As a result, it is possible to support reading of a two-dimensional code and to capture the images of one workpiece W being conveyed a plurality of times.

As illustrated inFIG.3, the imaging unit5includes: an imaging element5athat can capture at least a portion of the workpiece W to which the code is attached; an optical system5bhaving lenses and the like; and an autofocus mechanism (AF mechanism)5c. Light reflected from at least the portion of the workpiece W to which the code is attached is incident on the optical system5b. The imaging element5ais an image sensor including a light receiving element such as a charge-coupled device (CCD) or a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) that converts an image having the code obtained through the optical system5binto an electrical signal.

The AF mechanism5cis a mechanism that performs focusing by changing a position and a refractive index of a focusing lens among the lenses constituting the optical system5b. The AF mechanism5cis connected to the control section20and is controlled by an AF control unit21of the control section20.

The imaging element5ais connected to the imaging control unit22of the control section20. The imaging element5ais controlled by the imaging control unit22and is configured to be capable of capturing an image of an area through which the workpiece W passes at predetermined fixed time intervals and capturing an image of an area through which the workpiece W passes at arbitrary timings with changed time intervals. The imaging unit5is configured to be capable of executing so-called infinite burst imaging in which successive generation of read images is continued. As a result, it is possible to capture the code of the workpiece W moving at high speed into the read image without missing the codes, and it is possible to generate a plurality of read images by capturing the single workpiece W being conveyed a plurality of times. Note that the imaging control unit22may be built in the imaging unit5.

The intensity of light received by a light receiving surface of the imaging element5ais converted into an electrical signal by the imaging element5a, and the electrical signal converted by the imaging element5ais transferred to the processing unit23of the control section20as image data constituting a read image.

[Configuration of Display Unit7]

The display unit7is configured using, for example, an organic EL display, a liquid crystal display, or the like. The display unit7is connected to the control section20as illustrated inFIG.3. On the display unit7, for example, the code captured by the imaging unit5, and a character string, a reading success rate, a matching level (reading margin), and the like, which are decoding results of the code, can be displayed. The read success rate is an average read success rate when read processing is executed a plurality of times. The matching level is a reading margin that indicates the ease of reading the code that have been successfully decoded. This can be obtained from the number of error corrections having occurred during decoding, and can be expressed numerically, for example. The matching level (reading margin) increases as the error corrections decrease, and the matching level (reading margin) decreases as the error corrections increase.

[Configuration of Storage Device50]

The storage device50is constituted by various memories, a hard disk, an SSD, and the like. The storage device35is provided with a decoding result storage unit51, an image data storage unit52, and a parameter set storage unit53. The decoding result storage unit51is a portion that stores a decoding result which is a result obtained by executing a decoding process using the processing unit23. The image data storage unit52is a portion that stores an image captured by the imaging unit5. The parameter set storage unit53is a portion that stores setting information set by the computer100, setting information set by the select button8and the enter button9, setting information (reading parameters) obtained as a result of executing tuning by a tuning execution unit24, and the like. The parameter set storage unit53can store a plurality of parameter sets including a plurality of parameters constituting imaging conditions (gain, the amount of light of the illumination unit4, exposure time, and the like) of the imaging unit5and image processing conditions (a type of image processing filter and the like) in the processing unit23.

[Configuration of Output Unit60]

The code reader1includes the output unit60. The output unit60is a portion that outputs a decoding result obtained by a decoding process of the processing unit23to be described later. Specifically, when the decoding process is completed, the processing unit23transmits the decoding result to the output unit60. The output unit60can be constituted by a communication unit that transmits data related to the decoding result received from the processing unit23to, for example, the computer100and the PLC101. The output unit60may have an I/O unit connected to the computer100and the PLC101, a serial communication unit such as RS232C, and a network communication unit such as a wireless LAN or a wired LAN.

[Configuration of Control Section20]

The control section20illustrated inFIG.3is a section configured to control each part of the code reader1, and can be configured using a CPU, an MPU, a system LSI, a DSP, dedicated hardware, or the like. The control section20is equipped with various functions as will be described later, and these may be implemented by a logic circuit or may be implemented by executing software.

The control section20includes the AF control unit21, the imaging control unit22, the processing unit23, the tuning execution unit24, and a UI management unit25. The AF control unit21is a portion that performs focusing of the optical system5bby conventionally known contrast AF and phase difference AF. The AF control unit21may be included in the imaging unit5.

[Configuration of Imaging Control Unit22]

The imaging control unit22is a portion that controls not only the imaging unit5but also the illumination unit4. That is, the imaging control unit22is configured as a unit that adjusts the gain of the imaging element5a, controls the amount of light of the illumination unit4, and controls the exposure time (shutter speed) of the imaging element5a. The gain, the amount of light of the illumination unit4, the exposure time, and the like are included in the imaging conditions of the imaging unit5.

[Configuration of Processing Unit23]

The processing unit23is a portion that extracts a code candidate area from the read image generated by the imaging unit5, executes a decoding process of the determined area, and generates a decoding result. Since a method for extracting the code candidate area and a method for the decoding process have been conventionally known, the description thereof will be omitted.

[Configuration of Installation Support Device A for Stationary Code Reader]

The installation support device A illustrated inFIG.1is a device configured to support the installation of the code reader1before installing the code reader1in an actual site. A person who uses the code reader1(including a prospective user) and a person who proposes the installation of the code reader1, a person who sells the code reader1(collectively referred to as users) can use the installation support device A.

The installation support device A includes the display unit42, an input unit43, and a printer45in addition to the computer100, but the printer45may be omitted. The display unit42is constituted by, for example, a liquid crystal display and the like. The input unit43is constituted by a keyboard43a, a mouse43b, a touch sensor (not illustrated), and the like. Although details will be described later, the input unit43can input code information to be read and environment information indicating a reading environment. An example of the environment information indicating the reading environment is a conveying speed of a line, but is not limited to the conveying speed of the line. For example, the above environment information may include a distance of the workpiece W moving per unit time and a size of the workpiece W.

As illustrated inFIG.2, the computer100includes the control unit40, the storage device41, and the communication unit44. The control unit40is a unit configured to control each part of the installation support device A, and can be configured using a CPU, an MPU, a system LSI, a DSP, dedicated hardware, and the like. The control unit40is equipped with various functions as will be described later, and these may be implemented by a logic circuit or may be implemented by executing software. The storage device41is constituted by various memories, a hard disk, a solid state drive (SSD), and the like. The communication unit44is a portion that communicates with the code reader1. The communication unit44may have an I/O unit connected to the code reader1, a serial communication unit such as RS232C, and a network communication unit such as a wireless LAN and a wired LAN.

The control unit40is a portion that controls each part included in the computer100based on a program stored in the storage device41, and includes an information acquisition unit40a, a UI management unit40b, a calculation unit (an example of a calculation section)40c, and an output unit (an example of an output section)40d. Details of each part will be described later, but the outline is given is as follows. The information acquisition unit40ais an acquisition section that acquires various types of information input by the input unit43and various types of information stored in advance in the storage device41, and is a portion that can acquire at least camera information including a camera parameter of the code reader1, the code information to be read, and the environment information including the conveying speed of the line. An acquisition step is executed by the information acquisition unit40a.

The UI management unit40bis a portion that generates various user interface screens and receives an input operation of the user using the input unit43. The calculation unit40cis portion that determines required field of view and depth of the code reader1required to read the code under the environment specified by the environment information based on the environment information acquired by the information acquisition unit40a. Further, the calculation unit40ccan determine an installation pattern, which is recommended installation position and posture of the code reader1that can satisfy the determined required field of view and depth, based on the camera information and the code information acquired by the information acquisition unit40a. A calculation step can be executed by the calculation unit40c. The output unit40dis a portion that outputs the installation pattern determined by the calculation unit40cto the display unit42via the user interface screen or outputs the installation pattern to the printer45in a report format.

Hereinafter, the processing flow of the installation support device A will be described with reference to the flowchart illustrated inFIG.7. In Step SA1, the information acquisition unit40aacquires camera parameters. The camera parameter is information of the imaging unit5provided in the code reader1, that is, information included in the camera information. The information acquisition unit40amay read the camera parameter directly from the code reader1, or the camera parameter may be stored in the storage device41in advance and the camera parameter may be read and acquired from the storage device41. In addition, the information acquisition unit40amay acquire the camera parameter input by the input unit43. The camera parameters include the number of pixels of the imaging element5aand an angle of view and aperture of the optical system5b, but may include another information unique to the imaging unit5. The camera parameters are fixed values determined for each imaging unit5, and thus, are not changeable by the user.

As the code reader1, a plurality of models having different imaging units5and illumination units4are prepared, and each of the models can be used. Since the camera parameter and the like differ depending on the model of the code reader1, the information acquisition unit40aacquires the camera parameter of each of the models. The camera parameter, a model type, and the like are model information of the code reader1.

In Step SA2, the information acquisition unit40aacquires the code information. The code information is information for identifying a type of code to be read. The code information includes a code type such as a one-dimensional code and a two-dimensional code, an NB width (narrow bar width), a maximum code length, and the like. The code information is information input by the user by operating the input unit43. In addition, the code information may be acquired by capturing the code to be read.

In Step SA3, the information acquisition unit40aacquires workpiece information and conveyor information. The workpiece information and the conveyor information are information input by the user by operating the input unit43. The workpiece information includes a size of a minimum workpiece W and a size of a maximum workpiece W conveyed by the conveying belt conveyor B, a minimum interval between the workpieces W conveyed by the conveying belt conveyor B, a surface of the workpiece W to which the code is attached, a position of the code on the workpiece W, a position of the workpiece W on the conveying belt conveyor B, and the like.

The size of the workpiece W can be specified by the width, depth, and height of the workpiece W. The minimum size and maximum size of the workpiece W can be used as reference values for the required field of view and depth. The information on the position of the code with respect to the workpiece W may be input when the position of the code is limited, and the required field of view and depth can be mitigated by acquiring this information. The minimum interval between the workpieces W is an interval until the next workpiece W arrives, and is a value that relates to the calculation of the reading timing and the required field of view. The position information of the workpiece W on the conveying belt conveyor B is information indicating, for example, whether the workpiece W is located at the center in the width direction on the conveyor or displaced to one side in the width direction, and the required field of view and depth can be mitigated by acquiring this information. In other words, an area through which the code passes can be narrowed down by the workpiece information, and the required field of view and depth can be calculated by inputting the workpiece information.

In addition, the conveyor information includes a height, a width, a conveying speed, a length, and the like of a conveyance surface of the conveying belt conveyor B. The height of the conveyance surface can be used to calculate an installation distance of the code reader1. The width of the conveyance surface can be used to calculate the required field of view. The conveying speed can be used to calculate the number of times the code reader1can be read. The length of the conveyance surface can be used as a reference value in a vertical field of view. In other words, the conveyor information can be used to calculate the required field of view and the installation distance of the code reader1.

In addition, a required field of view in a conveyor movement direction can be calculated using the conveying speed of the line, but the required field of view in the conveyor movement direction can be also calculated using the distance of the workpiece W moving per unit time and the size of the workpiece W as well as the conveying speed of the line. That is, it suffices to use dimensional information regarding the direction in which the workpiece W moves as an input value.

Next, an example of a procedure for input of the workpiece information and the conveyor information will be described.FIG.8is a view illustrating an example of a user interface screen200for input of conveyor information displayed in Step SA3. The UI management unit40bgenerates the user interface screen200for input of conveyor information and displays the user interface screen200for input of conveyor information on the display unit42. The user interface screen200for input of conveyor information is provided with a progress status display area200a, an image display area200b, a conveyor information input area200c, and a clearance setting start button200d. In the progress status display area200a, three steps of an input step of conveyor information (conveyor condition), an input step of workpiece information (workpiece condition), and an input step of code information (code condition) are displayed side by side in the input order. In the image display area200b, the workpiece W in the state of being conveyed by the conveying belt conveyor B is illustrated.

Whenever each piece of information included in the conveyor information and the workpiece information is input, the conveyor and the workpiece can be redrawn and displayed on each user interface screen. As a result, the user can virtually grasp a situation at the site in a visual manner.

In the conveyor information input area200c, input can be performed for three items of the width of the conveyance surface of the conveying belt conveyor B (conveyor width), the height of the conveyance surface of the conveying belt conveyor B (conveyor height), and the conveying speed of the conveying belt conveyor B (conveyor speed). An input operation for each item can be performed by the input unit43. An input value is stored in a conveyor information storage unit41aprovided in the storage device41.

When detecting that the clearance setting start button200dhas been operated, the UI management unit40bgenerates a user interface screen201for clearance setting illustrated inFIG.9and displays the user interface screen201for clearance setting on the display unit42. The user interface screen201for clearance setting is provided with an image display area201a, a height direction clearance setting area201b, a width direction clearance setting area201c, and a depth direction clearance setting area201d. In the image display area201a, clearances set in clearance setting areas201b,201c, and201dare illustrated by arrows together with the workpiece W in the state of being conveyed by the conveying belt conveyor B. In the height direction clearance setting area201b, clearances above and below the conveyor can be set. In the width direction clearance setting area201c, clearances on the right side and the left side in a progressing direction of the workpiece W can be set. In the depth direction clearance setting area201d, a clearance in the conveying direction of the conveying belt conveyor B can be set. An input operation for each item can be performed by the input unit43. When an “OK” button on the user interface screen201for clearance setting is operated, the input value is stored in the conveyor information storage unit41a, and the screen returns to the user interface screen200for input of conveyor information illustrated inFIG.8. When a “Cancel” button on the user interface screen201for clearance setting illustrated inFIG.9is operated, the input value is not stored, and the screen returns to the user interface screen200for input of conveyor information illustrated inFIG.8.

When detecting the operation of a “Next” button on the user interface screen200for input of conveyor information illustrated inFIG.8, the UI management unit40bgenerates a user interface screen202for input of workpiece information illustrated inFIG.10and displays the user interface screen202for input of workpiece information on the display unit42. The user interface screen202for input of workpiece information is also displayed in Step SA3. The user interface screen202for input of workpiece information is also provided with a progress status display area202aand an image display area202b. Further, the user interface screen202for input of workpiece information is provided with a workpiece information input area202cfor input of workpiece information, a code pasting position setting start button202d, and a detailed setting start button202e.

In the workpiece information input area202c, each of a size of a minimum workpiece W1and a size of a maximum workpiece W2conveyed by the conveying belt conveyor B, and the minimum interval between the workpieces W conveyed by the conveying belt conveyor B can be input by the input unit43. When detecting the operation of the code pasting position setting start button202d, the UI management unit40bgenerates a user interface screen203for code pasting illustrated inFIG.11and displays the user interface screen203for code pasting on the display unit42. The user interface screen203for code pasting is provided with an image display area203a, a pasting surface specifying area203b, and a pasting position specifying area203c. In the pasting surface specifying area203b, any surface of the workpiece W to which the code is attached can be specified by the input unit43. For example, the surface can be specified by the user's selection from among a plurality of selection branches such as a top surface and left and right surfaces. Information on this surface is surface information to be read in the workpiece W. In the pasting position specifying area203c, any location on the surface specified in the pasting surface specifying area203bwhere the code exists can be specified by dimensions. In the case of the workpiece W for which it is difficult to specify a pasting position, no input may be performed. In the image display area203a, the surface specified in the pasting surface specifying area203band each dimension input in the pasting position specifying area203ccan be illustrated.

When an “OK” button on the user interface screen203for code pasting is operated, the input value is stored in a workpiece information storage unit41bprovided in the storage device41, and the screen returns to the user interface screen202for input of workpiece information illustrated inFIG.10. When a “Cancel” button on the user interface screen203for code pasting illustrated inFIG.11is operated, the input value is not stored, and the screen returns to the user interface screen202for input of workpiece information illustrated inFIG.10.

When detecting the operation of a detailed setting button202eillustrated inFIG.10, the UI management unit40bgenerates a user interface screen204for detailed setting illustrated inFIG.12and displays the user interface screen204for detailed setting on the display unit42. The user interface screen204for detailed setting is provided with an image display area204a, a workpiece shape and rotation specifying area204b, a width alignment specifying area204c, and a film presence/absence specifying area204d. In the workpiece shape and rotation specifying area204b, the input unit43can specify whether or not the workpiece W sometimes rotates and whether or not the workpiece W is cylindrical. In the width alignment specifying area204c, the input unit43can specify whether or not the workpiece W is cylindrical. In the film presence/absence specifying area204d, the input unit43can specify whether or not there is a film on the surface of the workpiece W.

When an “OK” button on the user interface screen204for detailed setting is operated, the input value is stored in a workpiece information storage unit41bprovided in the storage device41, and the screen returns to the user interface screen202for input of workpiece information illustrated inFIG.10. When a “Cancel” button on the user interface screen204for detailed setting illustrated inFIG.12is operated, the input value is not stored, and the screen returns to the user interface screen202for input of workpiece information illustrated inFIG.10.

When detecting the operation of a “Next” button on the user interface screen202for input of workpiece information illustrated inFIG.10, the UI management unit40bgenerates a user interface screen205for input of code information illustrated inFIG.13and displays the user interface screen205for input of code information on the display unit42. The user interface screen205for input of code information is displayed in Step SA2of the flowchart illustrated inFIG.7. The user interface screen205for input of code information is also provided with a progress status display area205aand an image display area205b. Further, the user interface screen205for input of code information is provided with a code position and type display field205cdisplaying a code pasting position and a code type and a code information input area205d. In the code information input area205d, a code type, an NB width, a maximum code length, and the like can be input by operating the input unit43.

The code information input area205dis provided with a setting button205e. When detecting the operation of the setting button205e, the UI management unit40bgenerates a user interface screen206for input of code position and orientation illustrated inFIG.14and displays the user interface screen206for input of code position and orientation on the display unit42. On the user interface screen206for input of code position and orientation, a code position can be input by operating the input unit43from among a top surface, a side surface, a front surface, a rear surface, a bottom surface, and the like of the workpiece W. When an “OK” button on the user interface screen206for input of code position and orientation is operated, the input value is stored in a code information storage unit41cprovided in the storage device41, and the screen returns to the user interface screen205for input of code information illustrated inFIG.13. When a “Cancel” button on the user interface screen206for input of code position and orientation illustrated inFIG.14is operated, the input value is not stored, and the screen returns to the user interface screen205for input of code information illustrated inFIG.13. Examples of the input operation performed by the user in Steps SA2and SA3of the flowchart illustrated inFIG.7have been described as above, but the input order, screen display forms, and the like can be changed.

In Steps SA4and SA5of the flowchart illustrated inFIG.7, the user inputs a first installation pattern and a first mounting pattern by operating the input unit43. First, the installation pattern will be described. The installation pattern is a pattern illustrating a relative positional relationship of the code reader1with respect to the workpiece W, and there are a plurality of installation patterns when there is one code reader1as illustrated inFIG.15, and there are a plurality of installation patterns when there are a plurality of the code readers1as illustrated inFIG.16. The installation patterns illustrated inFIG.15include an installation pattern in which the code reader1is installed at a position where the code on the top surface of the workpiece W is read, an installation pattern in which the code reader1is installed with an angle with respect to a front or rear surface or a side surface (reference surface) of the workpiece W, an installation pattern in which the code reader1is installed at a position where the code on the side surface of the workpiece W is read, and the like. In addition, the installation patterns illustrated inFIG.16include an installation pattern in which the code readers1are installed such that the code is read from four directions with respect to the workpiece W, an installation pattern in which the code readers1are installed, respectively, on the lateral side and the obliquely upper side the workpiece W, and the like. The installation pattern in which the code reader1is installed with the angle with respect to the reference surface (a surface to which the code to be read is attached, the surface to be imaged) includes, for example, inclination angle information (for example, 15°, 30°, and the like) of an imaging surface of the code reader1with respect to the reference surface as mounting angle information of the code reader1with respect to the reference surface.

The UI management unit40bcan display diagrams, pattern names, and the like of the respective installation patterns illustrated inFIGS.15and16on the display unit42. The drawings, pattern names, and the like of the respective installation patterns can be stored in a template storage unit41cprovided in the storage device41as templates indicating types of installation positions and postures of the code reader1. The user can operate the input unit43to select an arbitrary installation pattern on the display unit42and input the selected installation pattern as the first installation pattern. The installation pattern includes the surface information to be read in the workpiece W.

Next, a mounting pattern will be described. As illustrated inFIGS.17and18, as the mounting pattern, there are a plurality of patterns obtained by changing a position of the code reader1with respect to the workpiece W and a plurality of patterns obtained by changing the number of the code readers1. The UI management unit40bcan display diagrams, pattern names, and the like of the respective mounting patterns illustrated inFIGS.17and18on the display unit42. The drawings, pattern names, and the like of the respective mounting patterns can be stored in the template storage unit41cprovided in the storage device41as templates. The user can operate the input unit43to select an arbitrary mounting pattern on the display unit42and input the selected mounting pattern as the first mounting pattern. The mounting pattern also includes the surface information to be read in the workpiece W.

Any surface among the upper, lower, left, right, front, and rear surfaces of the workpiece W to be read, how much the imaging surface of the code reader1is inclined with respect to the conveyor, and whether the code reader is vertical or horizontal with respect to the conveyor can be set based on the installation pattern and the mounting pattern. The installation pattern and the mounting pattern input by the input unit43are acquired by the information acquisition unit41cas the first installation pattern and the first mounting pattern in Steps SA4and SA5inFIG.7. Since it has not been determined whether or not the first installation pattern and the first mounting pattern acquired at this stage are patterns to be recommended, these first installation pattern and first mounting pattern are stored in the storage device41as assumed installation position and posture of the code reader1. It is also possible to acquire a range corresponding to the inclination of the code, an installation angle of the code reader1, and the like by acquiring the first installation pattern and the first mounting pattern.

For example, there is a case where the periphery of the workpiece W can be covered by four code readers1. In this case, one code reader1covers a range of about 90° around the workpiece W, the inclination angle of the imaging unit5with respect to the surface of the workpiece W becomes large, and there is a possibility that code acquisition may be restricted depending on the NB width. In order to eliminate this restriction, it is possible to propose an increase of the number of the code readers1to, for example, six.

As indicated by reference sign300inFIG.7, a camera parameter, code information, and workpiece information can be additionally input separately from the above Steps SA1to SA3. In this case, as indicated by reference sign301, the user can input a second installation pattern and a second mounting pattern different from the first installation pattern and the first mounting pattern. The input second installation pattern and second mounting pattern are acquired by the information acquisition unit41cand stored as assumed installation position and posture of the code reader1. In this manner, the user can input a third installation pattern and a third mounting pattern, a fourth installation pattern and a fourth mounting pattern, and so on although not illustrated, and the information acquisition unit41calso stores these in the storage device41as assumed installation positions and postures of the code reader1. In other words, the plurality of assumed installation positions and postures can be stored and acquired later.

In Step SA6of the flowchart illustrated inFIG.7, the calculation unit40ccalculates the performance of the code reader1. A procedure for calculating the performance of the code reader1will be described with reference to the flowchart illustrated inFIG.19. In Step SB1, a focus condition is assumed. After the focus condition is assumed, it is also possible to calculate a width of the focus condition that satisfies a condition by repeating the calculation of a depth and confirming whether the required depth is satisfied.

The focus condition is the amount of adjustment of the focusing lens by the AF mechanism5c. In Step SB2, the camera parameter acquired by the information acquisition unit40ais read. In Step SB3, the code found by search is read from the read image captured by the imaging unit5.

In Step SB4, a distance (mm) from the imaging unit5to the code is obtained based on the correspondence between the amount of adjustment of the focusing lens by the AF mechanism5cwhen focusing by the focusing lens is completed and the distance from the imaging unit5to the code. This is a current installation distance. Note that the distance from the imaging unit5to the code may be measured by the user using a scale or the like, and the measured value may be input as the installation distance.

In Step SB5, an angle of view (rad) of the optical system5bstored in advance is read. In Step SB6, the number of pixels (pixels) of the imaging element5ais read in a format of, for example, 1280 vertical pixels×768 horizontal pixels. The number of pixels of the imaging element5ais known, and may be stored in the storage device41in advance. In Step SB7, information on the aperture and focal length of optical system5bis read. Current aperture and focal length of the optical system5bmay be output to the calculation unit40c.

In Step SB8, PPC (pixels/cell) is calculated. In Step SB9, coordinates of the code are read. The coordinates of the code can be obtained, for example, by estimating a central portion of the code and obtaining X and Y coordinates of the central portion, but may be coordinates of an end portion of the code.

In Step SB10, a range of a field of view of the imaging unit5is calculated. The range of the field of view h can be calculated from Formula (1).
h=2d· tan(θ/2)  (1)

Here, d is a current installation distance, and θ is an angle of view of the optical system5b.

In Step SB11, a resolution r, that is, an actual length represented by one pixel constituting image data is calculated. The resolution r can be calculated from Formula (2).
Resolution(r)=h/n(2)

Here, n is the number of pixels in the horizontal direction of the imaging element5a.

In Step SB12, a size of the code (code size) is calculated. A code size CS (mm) can be obtained by multiplying the resolution r calculated from Formula (2) by the number of pixels in the horizontal direction of the code. The number of pixels in the horizontal direction of the code can be obtained from the image data.

In Step SB13, a size of a cell (cell size) is calculated. The cell is the smallest unit constituting the code. A cell size p can be obtained by multiplying the resolution r calculated from Formula (2) by the number of pixels in the horizontal direction of the cell. The number of pixels in the horizontal direction of the cell can be obtained from the image data. The cell size p is calculated by a cell size setting unit30.

In Step SB14, a permissible circle of confusion diameter (mm) is set. The permissible circle of confusion diameter does not consider movement and indicates the degree of defocus caused by a lens. The permissible circle of confusion diameter can also be expressed by the number of cells constituting the code. In addition, a maximum permissible blur amount is obtained in advance and can be stored in the storage device41.

In Step SB15, a front depth of field (mm) is calculated from Formula (3), and a rear depth of field (mm) is calculated from Formula (4).
Front depth of fieldDf=(δFd2)/(f2+δFd)  (3)
Rear depth of fielddb=(δFd2)/(f2−δFd)  (4)

Here, F is an aperture of the optical system5b, and f is a focal length of the optical system5b. In addition, δ is a permissible circle of confusion diameter. As described above, the calculation unit40ccan determine a performance field of view and a performance depth of the code reader1.

In Step SA9of the flowchart illustrated inFIG.7, a field of view required to read the code based on the workpiece information and the conveyor information acquired in Step SA3is calculated with reference to coordinates of the conveyor. Information on the required field of view includes a required area in a conveyor width direction, a required area in a workpiece movement direction, a required area in a workpiece height direction, and the like.

In Step SA10, the field of view and depth required to read the code based on the installation pattern and the mounting pattern acquired in Steps SA4and SA5are calculated with reference to coordinates of the code reader1. Information on the required field of view and depth includes a field of view in the vertical direction, the required depth, and the like. As described above, in Steps SA9and SA10, the calculation unit40ccan determine the required field of view and depth of the code reader1required to read the code under the environment specified by the environment information based on the environment information acquired by the information acquisition unit40a.

In Step SA7, it is determined whether or not the performance field of view and the performance depth of the code reader1calculated in Step SA6can satisfy the required field of view and depth calculated in Steps SA9and SA10. When it is determined in Step SA7that the performance field of view and the performance depth of the code reader1satisfy the required field of view and depth, the process proceeds to Step SA8to calculate an installable range of the code reader1. The installable range of the code reader1includes a minimum installation distance, a maximum installation distance, a recommended installation distance, and the like. In addition, the installable range of the code reader1may be calculated in the same manner even when it is determined in Step SA7that the performance field of view and the performance depth of the code reader1do not satisfy the required field of view and depth. The determination result in Step SA7is stored.

In addition, the installation pattern and the mounting patterns of all the templates or a plurality of arbitrary templates stored in the template storage unit41cmay be determined in Step SA7. In other words, it is possible to specify the installation pattern, which is the recommended installation position and posture of the code reader1, from among those patterns by performing determination in Step SA7for all the templates in a brute-force format.

In Step SA11, when it is determined in Step SA7that the performance field of view and the performance depth of the code reader1satisfy the required field of view and depth, the first installation pattern and the first mounting pattern are determined as the recommended installation position and posture of the code reader1that can satisfy the required field of view and depth. In addition, when it is determined in Step SA7that the performance field of view and the performance depth of the code reader1do not satisfy the required field of view and depth, the first installation pattern and the first mounting pattern are determined as patterns that are not capable of satisfying the required field of view and depth. This step is executed by the calculation unit40c.

In addition, processing indicated by reference sign302inFIG.7is the same as in Steps SA6to SA10. When it is determined that the performance field of view and the performance depth of the code reader1satisfy the required field of view and depth in processing indicated by reference sign302, the process proceeds to a step indicated by reference sign303, and the second installation pattern and the second mounting pattern are determined as the recommended installation position and posture of the code reader1that can satisfy the required field of view and depth. In addition, when it is determined that the performance field of view and the performance depth of the code reader1do not satisfy the required field of view and depth in the processing indicated by reference sign302, the second installation pattern and the second mounting pattern are determined as patterns that are not capable of satisfying the required field of view and depth in the step indicated by reference sign303. Similarly, the determination can be also made for the third installation pattern and the third mounting pattern, the fourth installation pattern and the fourth mounting pattern, and the like.

In Step SA12, the best pattern is selected from among the plurality of installation patterns and mounting patterns. That is, when the field of view and depth at the assumed installation position and posture acquired by the information acquisition unit40ado not satisfy the required field of view and depth, the calculation unit40cexecutes a change process of changing at least one of the assumed installation position and posture, performs the determination on the assumed installation position and posture after having been subjected to the change process, and repeats the change process and the determination to determine the installation pattern which is the recommended installation position and posture of the code reader. For example, when the first installation pattern and the first mounting pattern do not satisfy the required field of view and depth, the installation pattern and the mounting pattern are changed to the second installation pattern and the second mounting pattern, and whether or not the second installation pattern and the second mounting pattern satisfy the required field of view and depth is determined. At this time, it is possible to determine whether or not the required field of view and depth are satisfied by changing only one of the installation position and the posture of the code reader1.

A plurality of recommended installation positions and postures of the code reader1may be presented without selecting the best pattern in Step SA12, and any pattern may be selected as the user operates the input unit43. At this time, a pattern that has not been determined as the recommended installation position and posture of the code reader1may be presented to the user.

In addition, a criteria for selection of the best pattern in Step SA12may be changeable. For example, a pattern with the smallest number of code readers1can be set as the best pattern, or a pattern with the lowest total cost of equipment in use can be set as the best pattern.

Thereafter, the process proceeds to Step SA13to execute optimization (tuning) of a reading parameter, and then, a reading test is executed in Step SA14. Finally, the process can proceed to Step SA15to output a report. Steps SA13to SA15may be executed as needed and may be omitted. Details of Steps SA13to SA15will be described later.

[Parameter Set (Bank)]

FIG.20is a view illustrating an example of a user interface screen400displayed when installation support is performed by the installation support device A. The user interface screen400can be generated by the UI management unit40band displayed on the display unit42. A plurality of tabs401,402, and403are provided on the upper part of the user interface image400, and any one of the plurality of tabs401,402, and403can be selected.FIG.20illustrates a case where the bank tab402is selected. One parameter set is referred to as the “bank”. In the example illustrated inFIG.20, only Bank1and Bank2are displayed, but the number of banks can be set arbitrarily.

As a common setting item for each bank, provided are “decoding timeout value” that indicates the timeout time of a decoding process, “black and white inversion” that inverts black and white of a read image, “internal lighting” that switches on and off of the internal lighting constituted by the illumination unit4mounted on the housing2, “external lighting” that switches on and off of the external lighting constituted by the illumination unit4configured as a separate body from the housing2, and “detailed code settings” for switching a code type. In addition, as reading setting items, “exposure time” that indicates the exposure time by the imaging unit5, “gain” that indicates the gain of the imaging unit5, “contrast adjustment scheme” that indicates a method for adjusting the contrast of a read image, a “first image filter” and a “second image filter” that select types and order of image filters to be applied, and the like are provided in each bank.

In the code reader1, the user can select a bank to be used during the operation time of the code reader1from among a plurality of banks stored in the parameter set storage unit53. That is, the user can operate the input unit43while viewing the user interface image400illustrated inFIG.20and select an arbitrary bank on the user interface image400.

[User Interface Screen During Installation Support]

FIG.21illustrates a case where the reading tab401of the user interface screen400is selected, and can be displayed during installation support. The user interface screen400illustrated inFIG.21is provided with a read image display area404that displays a read image captured by the imaging unit5and a tuning result display area405that displays a tuning result. In the tuning result display area405, for example, a graph illustrating the relationship between the ease of reading and brightness is displayed. Further, a proposal creation button400a, a monitor start button400b, an autofocus button400c, a tuning start button400d, a reading rate button400e, and a report output button400fare also provided.

When detecting that the proposal creation button400ahas been operated, the UI management unit40bdisplays the user interface screens200to206(illustrated inFIGS.8to14), configured to prompt the user to input information required for installation support, in the above-described order. As a result, each information can be acquired by the information acquisition unit40a. In addition, the mounting patterns illustrated inFIGS.15to18are also prompted to be input by the user, and are acquired as information by the information acquisition unit40a.

When detecting that the monitor start button400bhas been operated, the UI management unit40bcauses the imaging unit5to execute a read image generation process. The generated read image is displayed in the read image display area404.

When the UI management unit40bdetects that the autofocus button400chas been operated, the AF control unit21controls the AF mechanism5cto execute focusing. In this example, a state where a one-dimensional code CD is attached to the workpiece W is illustrated, but a two-dimensional code may be attached. In the read image display area404, a frame line410surrounding an area where the code CD is highly likely to exist is also displayed. Note that there is a case where two or more codes CD are displayed in the read image display area404when the two or more codes CD are attached to the workpiece W.

Thereafter, when detecting that the tuning start button400dhas been operated, the UI management unit40bcauses the tuning execution unit24illustrated inFIG.2to execute a reading parameter optimization process. This process corresponds to Step SA13inFIG.7.

The tuning execution unit24causes the imaging unit5to acquire a plurality of read images while changing the brightness (the exposure time, the gain, the amount of light of the illumination unit4, and the like), for example, and causes the processing unit32to execute a decoding process on each of the read images. As a result, the tuning execution unit24can acquire a graph representing the brightness and the ease of reading of the read image as illustrated in the tuning result display area405illustrated inFIG.21. The ease of reading can be obtained from, for example, the above-described reading margin. As a result, the optimum reading parameters can be acquired. The optimum reading parameters are stored as a parameter set in a bank illustrated inFIG.20, and displayed on the display unit42and thus can be confirmed by the user.

When detecting that the reading rate button400ehas been operated, the UI management unit40bcauses the imaging unit5to reflect the tuning result and generate a new read image, and causes the processing unit32to execute a decoding process on the generated read image. This is a reading test mode for testing the stability of reading, which corresponds to the processing of Step SA14illustrated inFIG.7. For example, reading can be tried ten times, and results thereof can be displayed in the tuning result display area405.

The reading test mode includes a task test mode, a depth test mode, and a speed test mode. The task test mode is a mode for measuring a reading time, and a current reading time, the longest reading time, and the shortest reading time are displayed on the display unit42.

The depth test mode is a mode for measuring a maximum readable depth, and for example, a relative positional relationship between the code reader1and a readable code can be drawn and displayed on the display unit42. The shortest distance and the longest distance between the code reader1and the readable code can be displayed on the display unit42.

In the speed test mode, the moving workpiece W is successively read, and the speed of the workpiece W is calculated from the number of times the code is read and positions thereof, and is displayed on the display unit42. The speed of the workpiece W can be calculated and displayed substantially in real time. The speed of the workpiece W may be displayed in a numerical value or in a bar format.

Example of Presentation Form with Respect to User

FIG.22is a view illustrating an example of a presentation form with respect to the user. A user interface screen220for presentation illustrated in this drawing can be generated by the UI management unit40band displayed on the display unit42. The respective pieces of information constituting the user interface screen220for presentation include the calculation result of the calculation unit40c, the information acquired by the information acquisition unit40a, and the like, and these are output from the output unit40dto the UI management unit40b. The UI management unit40bcan generate the user interface screen220for presentation based on the respective pieces of information.

The user interface screen220for presentation is provided with a list display button220a, a frame option selection area220b, a code reader selection area220c, a model selection area220d, a distance adjustment area220e, a total result display area220f, a layout preview area220g, a first layout diagram display area220h, a second layout diagram display area220i, and the like.

When detecting that the list display button220ahas been operated, the UI management unit40bgenerates a list of devices in use as illustrated inFIG.23and displays the list of devices in use on the display unit42. The list of devices in use displays names of devices required in the case of installing the code reader1at the recommended installation position and posture, models thereof, and the number of the devices. That is, the output unit40dcan output the component information required to realize the installation pattern indicating the recommended installation position and posture and the component table illustrating the required number of the components. The component that has been presented can be also changed.

The frame option selection area220bis an area for switching of whether or not to propose a frame option. The proposal is made in consideration of a frame restriction when the frame option is proposed, but the proposal is made without any frame restriction when the frame option is not proposed.

The code reader selection area220cis an area for selection of an arbitrary code reader1in the case of the installation pattern in which the plurality of code readers1are installed. The model selection area220dis an area for displaying a model format and the like, that is, model information when the optimum model has been automatically proposed. In the model selection area220d, the user can also select an arbitrary model, and the selected model can be used to determine suitability. The distance adjustment area220eis an area operated when the user finely adjusts the installation position of the code reader1. The suitability of the adjustment result can be determined. The total result display area220fis an area for displaying whether or not reading is possible with the information displayed in the code reader selection area220c, the model selection area220d, the distance adjustment area220e, and the like. When reading is not possible, any degree of insufficiency for a requirement can be also displayed in the total result display area220f.

The layout preview area220gis an area for displaying the relative positional relationships among the code reader1, the workpiece W, and the conveyor, the dimensions of the respective parts, and the like in a drawing. In addition, the mounting angle information of the code reader1and the reading surface (surface information) of the workpiece W are also included. A bird's-eye view preview image can be generated while changing the viewpoint by 360°, and displayed in the layout preview area220g. The viewpoint can be changed by the input unit43. The first layout diagram display area220his an area for displaying a diagram illustrating the relative positional relationships among the code reader1, the workpiece W, and the conveyor, the dimensions of the respective parts, and the like in a front view. In addition, the second layout diagram display area220iis an area for displaying a diagram illustrating the relative positional relationships among the code reader1, the workpiece W, and the conveyor, the dimensions of the respective parts, and the like in a side view.

As illustrated inFIG.24, the workpiece W and a readable range600in a top view can be also displayed in the first layout diagram display area220hor the second layout diagram display area220i. As illustrated inFIG.25, the workpiece and a readable range601in a side view can be also displayed in the first layout diagram display area220hor the second layout diagram display area220i. As illustrated inFIG.26, a details of the mounting bracket603can be also displayed in the first layout diagram display area220hor the second layout diagram display area220i. Detailed information of the mounting bracket603includes the mounting angle information of the code reader1.

[Report Output]

As a form of presenting the recommended installation pattern of the code reader1to the user, a presentation form in a report may be also adopted in addition to the form in which the user interface screen is displayed on the display unit42as described above. The report may be presented as electronic data or may be presented in a paper medium printed by the printer45illustrated inFIG.2.

The report will be described hereinafter. When detecting that the report output button400fof the user interface screen400illustrated inFIG.21has been operated, the UI management unit40bexecutes Step SA15of the flowchart illustrated inFIG.7. In this step, first, each piece of information constituting the report is prepared. The respective pieces of information constituting the report include the calculation result of the calculation unit40c, the information acquired by the information acquisition unit40a, and the like.

A structure of the report output by the output unit40dwill be described with reference toFIG.27. The content output as the report roughly includes project general information, a proposal outline, a list of devices in use, a reading area, an installation diagram, a connection diagram, and a reading result, but not all of them are required.

The project general information in the report includes not only a user's project name but also, as required information required by the project, workpiece information, code information, clearance setting information, and information on a code pasting location. The workpiece information is configured using the information input on the user interface screen for input of workpiece information illustrated inFIG.10. The code information is configured using the information input on the user interface screen for input of the code information illustrated inFIG.13. The clearance setting information is configured using the information input on the user interface screen for clearance installation illustrated inFIG.9. The information on the code pasting location is configured using the information input on the user interface screen for setting of the code pasting position illustrated inFIG.11.

The proposal outline of the report includes a drawing and the like displayed in the layout preview area220gof the user interface screen220for presentation illustrated inFIG.22. In other words, the proposal outline is information that allows the user to roughly grasp the relative positional relationships among the code reader1, the workpiece W, and the conveyor.

For the list of devices in use of the report, for example, it is possible to present the names, models, and number of devices required when installing the code reader1at the recommended installation position and posture to the user using the format of the list of devices in use illustrated inFIG.23.

In the reading area of the report, a reading diagram in a front view, a reading diagram from a perspective view, and the like are displayed. On these drawings, a readable area can be indicated by color coding or the like. In addition, when a plurality of code readers are installed, readable areas of the respective code readers may be indicated by color coding or the like.

The installation diagram of the report includes an installation diagram in the front view displayed in the first layout diagram display area220hof the user interface screen220for presentation illustrated inFIG.22, an installation diagram in the side view displayed in the second layout diagram display area220i, a top view, and the like are displayed.

As the connection diagram of the report, a connection diagram of the code reader1as illustrated inFIG.28can be illustrated. In this connection diagram, each form of connection with an encoder or the like, connection with a higher-level host, and connection with a power supply is illustrated, and a connection form with a higher-level system via a terminal box is also illustrated.

In addition, the report can include tuning conditions such as the model information and the exposure time, information on the use and non-use of the internal lighting and external lighting, reading information illustrating the relationship between the brightness and the ease of reading, the read image, and the tuning result (parameter set or the like). The tuning result may be provided as electronic data so as to be usable by being imported into the code reader1.

The reading result of the report includes a read image, a reading rate test result, a tact test result, a depth test result, a speed test result, and the like. In addition, the reading rate test result includes a reading rate (%), a bank number, a code type, a narrow bar width, and the like in addition to read data. The tact test result includes the bank number, the time required for reading (tact), and the like in addition to the read data. The depth test result includes a focal length, a depth and a field of view at the shortest readable distance, a depth and a field of view at the longest readable distance, and the like in addition to a reading depth. The speed test result includes the speed of the workpiece W calculated in the speed test mode.

[Modification of Presentation Form with respect to User]

As a form of presenting a recommended installation pattern of the code reader1to the user, for example, two-dimensional CAD data or three-dimensional CAD data (CAD file) in which the recommended installation pattern is drawn may be output from the output unit40d. As a diagram illustrating the recommended installation pattern, for example, a diagram similar to the diagram displayed in the layout preview area220g of the user interface screen220for presentation illustrated inFIG.22can be used. As the user is provided with CAD data of the recommended installation pattern, the design man-hours on the user side can be reduced.

In addition, the calculation unit40ccan grasp the conveying speed of the conveyor and the layout of the code reader1, and thus, can acquire the code reading timing by calculation. This reading timing can also be presented to the user. In addition, the presentation can be performed to be intuitively and easily understandable for the user by converting time information into distance information.

In addition, in the case of the workpiece W covered with a transparent film or the like, a polarizing plate can be attached in front of the imaging unit5. When the polarizing plate is attached, the brightness of the imaging unit5decreases, and such a decrease in brightness can be dealt with by moving the code reader1closer to the workpiece W. As the amount of the decrease in brightness due to the polarizing plate in advance, an installation position of the code reader1when the polarizing plate is attached can be calculated and presented to the user.

[Computer Program]

A computer program installed in the installation support device A causes the installation support device A to execute each of the above-described functions, in particular, the acquisition step of acquiring the camera information and the environment information and the calculation step of determining the installation pattern which is the recommended installation position and posture of the code reader1. The computer program can be stored in the storage device41. In addition, the computer program can be stored in various storage media such as an optical disc and be distributed on the market, and further, can also be stored on a server, downloaded via the Internet, installed on the computer, and used by the user. The computer on which this program has been installed can serve as the installation support device A.

Function and Effect of Embodiment

As described above, according to the present embodiment, not only the recommended installation position of the code reader1but also the posture of the code reader1at the recommended installation position is also determined by the calculation unit40cof the installation support device A, and thus, the user can confirm both the position and the posture before installing the code reader1. In addition, it is sufficient for the user to install the code reader1so as to have the determined posture when installing the code reader1at the determined recommended installation position, which facilitates the installation work.

The above-described embodiments are merely examples in all respects, and should not be construed as limiting. Further, all modifications and changes belonging to the equivalent range of the claims fall within the scope of the present aspect.

Industrial Availability

As described above, the installation support device for the stationary code reader according to the present aspect can be used in the case of presenting the installation position and posture of the code reader before installing the code reader.