U.S. patent application number 11/923791 was filed with the patent office on 2008-02-28 for image printing system.
Invention is credited to Jitsuhiko ANDO, Tohru FUNAKI, Tohru ISHII, Takayuki OHKUBO, Naoji SHIBASAKI.
Application Number | 20080049256 11/923791 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 27344370 |
Filed Date | 2008-02-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080049256 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
OHKUBO; Takayuki ; et
al. |
February 28, 2008 |
IMAGE PRINTING SYSTEM
Abstract
Image plus event information printing system, which comprises an
image data inputting means for inputting a datum of original image,
an event information database which memorizes the data of current
and/or passing events information being sorted with one or more
items, wherein one of the items consists of the occurrence time of
the event, an event information retrieval means for extracting any
event information within a predetermined range being in correlation
to the time which is related to the original image, by retrieving
from the sorted data in the event information database with using
one or more of the items, an image editing means for preparing a
datum of an image plus event information, from the datum of
original image and the extracted event information, and a printing
means for printing the image plus current events information in
accordance with the datum prepared by the image editing means.
Inventors: |
OHKUBO; Takayuki; (Tokyo-to,
JP) ; ANDO; Jitsuhiko; (Tokyo-to, JP) ;
SHIBASAKI; Naoji; (Tokyo-to, JP) ; ISHII; Tohru;
(Tokyo-to, JP) ; FUNAKI; Tohru; (Tokyo-to,
JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
LADAS & PARRY LLP
224 SOUTH MICHIGAN AVENUE
SUITE 1600
CHICAGO
IL
60604
US
|
Family ID: |
27344370 |
Appl. No.: |
11/923791 |
Filed: |
October 25, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
09932700 |
Aug 17, 2001 |
7298520 |
|
|
11923791 |
Oct 25, 2007 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
358/1.18 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04N 2201/3225 20130101;
H04N 1/32133 20130101; Y10S 707/99943 20130101; H04N 1/34 20130101;
H04N 1/00132 20130101; H04N 1/00188 20130101; H04N 2201/3263
20130101; Y10S 707/99931 20130101; H04N 2201/3261 20130101; H04N
1/00167 20130101; H04N 1/00127 20130101; H04N 2201/3271 20130101;
H04N 1/00135 20130101; H04N 2201/3266 20130101; H04N 1/00196
20130101; H04N 1/00175 20130101; H04N 1/32128 20130101; H04N
1/00204 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
358/001.18 |
International
Class: |
G06K 1/00 20060101
G06K001/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Aug 17, 2000 |
JP |
2000-247743 |
Jan 16, 2001 |
JP |
2001-008226 |
Mar 16, 2001 |
JP |
2001-076477 |
Claims
1. Additional information printing service system, which comprises
a function of concurrent providing a printed article having
additional information to a customer, at when a printing service
system which prints an image datum into an image printed articles
on a requirement of the customer and delivers it to the customer
delivers the printed article.
2. Additional information printing service system according to
claim 1, wherein the system further comprises a point producing
means which gives to the customer points in proportion to his
utilization frequency of the system.
3. Additional information printing service system according to
claim 1, wherein the system further comprises a questionnaire
inputting means, and the printed article having additional
information is provided at when the customer gives an answer to a
questionnaire by the questionnaire inputting means.
4. Additional information printing service system according to
claim 1, wherein the additional information to be printed contains
at least one of information of the point, shop information and
advertising information.
5. Additional information printing service system according to
claim 1, wherein the system comprises an inputting means for
inputting an image datum and/or information, a storing means for
storing the input image data and/or information, an image
data/information extracting means for extracting a image and/or
information to be needed, from the stored data, and a printing
means for printing the input image datum and/or the extracted image
datum and/or information by the extracting means.
6. Additional information printing service system according to
claim 1, which is provided to a printing apparatus.
Description
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] This invention relates to an image printing system which
outputs a photographic image which was photographed with an image
pickup apparatus such as digital camera, and stored in a recording
media as an image datum, and input into the printing system by
reading the image datum with an equipped media reader, or by
reading the out-put photograph directly with an equipped image
reader such as scanner.
[0003] This invention also relates to an image printing system
which outputs a specified scene in the dynamic image digital data
which was photographed with an image pickup apparatus such as a
digital camcorder, and stored in a recording media, and input into
the printing system by reading the image datum with an equipped
media reader.
[0004] This invention further relates to the individual service and
information offer service at the time of printing service of the
image data which a customer demands.
[0005] 2. Related Art
[0006] Since the image taken by the digital camera etc. is recorded
as digital data, without using a lab, it can print out by using the
personal computer and printer at a home.
[0007] Moreover, a relatively compact image outputting apparatus
capable of reading and outputting image digital data photographed
by a digital camera or the like as well as capable of being
installed at a relatively small space of a corner in a shop or on
the street has been proposed (hereinafter referred to as the "post
type image outputting apparatus") For example, JP-A-10-341303
discloses a post type image outputting apparatus comprising various
kinds of interfaces corresponding to a plurality of different kinds
of recording media, capable of reading and outputting image digital
data from the various kinds of the recording media. The post type
image output apparatus provides the handiness to be operated freely
by customers so that they can print out desired photograph images
instantaneously and take them back with them.
[0008] Further, it is well-known to change a scale and a position
by carrying out digital processing of the original image, or to
edit the original image to synthesize other material images, or to
do so, in order to obtain the image having additional value of high
quality. For example, with a personal image printing system built
on another personal computer as an axis, the digital processing of
a image can perform comparatively easily even in an advanced image
edition. Moreover, a different type image printing system called
"Print Club" has been also put on the street or other places,
wherein a photographed portrait can be synthesized with a frame
image.
[0009] However, the advantage of using the image printing system
put on these streets etc. has been decreased gradually, by
improvement in functional of a personal computer and a printer for
home use, and thus, a development of the image printing system
which can offer a more additional value to the printed article
would be desired.
[0010] Next, in order to print out one scene (hereinafter, it may
be called "dynamic-shot" or a "shot image" may be called below)
included in the dynamic image photographed with the digital
camcorder, the digital camera, etc. as a still picture, a digital
datum to be recorded as the desired scene for static image from the
dynamic image digital data is specified, and a still image is
printed out based on this static image data.
[0011] Such work can be done using the personal computer and
printer at a home. Alternatively, once one scene included in a
dynamic image is specified by using the personal computer at a
home, it is possible for the data of the specified shot image to be
recorded on a recording medium, and to be brought to a processing
laboratory (lab) in order to be printed as a still picture.
[0012] However, in order to print a shot image from a dynamic image
data using a lab, it is necessary to specify the scene of wishing
to print out as a still picture from the countless scenes included
in the dynamic image, and to tell the clerk of the lab about it.
For that purpose, a shot image to be printed should be specified by
using a personal computer at home and the datum of shot image
should be digitalized to be recorded on a recording medium in order
to carry it into the lab. Alternatively, the dynamic image data on
a recording medium should be carried into the lab, then the dynamic
image data should be reproduced on a monitor in front of the clerk
of the lab in order to point out the scene to be printed to the
clerk. These are inconvenient anyway.
[0013] Although the post type image outputting apparatus as
described above can be operated freely by a customer, in order to
print out a desired photograph image instantaneously and with ease,
it does not have the function which prints out such a shot
image.
[0014] Furthermore, the shopping center etc. does some unique
services offered to customer, such as an information service of the
recommended goods by insertion of a newspaper etc., a point service
wherein points are given to the customer in proportion to the
customer's usage of the shopping center, and any service such as
reduction in price, etc., is made according to the given points.
These services are not restricted to such a shopping center, but
are performed in various types of industry. For example, such
service is made on the DPE print shop which develops a photograph.
In a DPE print shop, if a customer orders a print, points will be
given to him according to the fee of print. Once the points accrued
by the customer attains a fixed point, the print fee will be
discounted according to the fixed point. Alternatively, as the
service, an enlarged photograph etc. would be given with no
charge.
[0015] Moreover, in recent years, by using the Internet etc., while
performing advertisement of shops (shopping center etc.), a service
where a coupon (discount ticket) etc. can be issued by a operation
on the browsing screen is offered.
[0016] However, when a customer uses the mentioned image printing
apparatus, in the present condition, such additional service is not
given. Thus, there is a large service gap between the case of using
such image printing system and the case of using DPE print shop,
etc.
[0017] Moreover, the printing apparatus has the advantage that it
can install anywhere, even in a small space. Therefore, once the
printing apparatus is installed in a shop, and it uses for
performing advertisement of the shop to the customer using printing
apparatus, it is expected that it can perform timely and effective
advertisement.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
[0018] First, this invention aims to provide an printed article
with a high added value by improving the edit capability of the
personal image printing system which is constructed with a personal
computer as an axis, or a known commercial image printing system
such as the above mentioned post type image outputting
apparatus.
[0019] Secondly, this invention aims to provide an image printing
system which prints the shot image by specifying one scene out of
dynamic image contents, and optionally further processing the
specified scene image, with using the post type image outputting
apparatus.
[0020] Thirdly, this invention aims to provide various information
which are useful for the customer, upon using the printing
apparatus, which would solve the service gap between the case of
requesting a print in a image printing system and the case of using
a DPE shop.
[0021] The first aim mentioned can be attained by an image plus
event information printing system according to the present
invention, which comprises:
[0022] an image data inputting means for inputting a datum of
original image,
[0023] an event information database which memorizes the data of
current and/or passing events information being sorted with one or
more items, wherein one of the items consists of the occurrence
time of the event,
[0024] an event information retrieval means for extracting any
event information within a predetermined range being in correlation
to the time which is related to the original image, by retrieving
from the sorted data in the event information database with using
one or more of the items,
[0025] an image editing means for preparing a datum of an image
plus event information, from the datum of original image and the
extracted event information, and
[0026] a printing means for printing the image plus current events
information in accordance with the datum prepared by the image
editing means.
[0027] According to the above mentioned image plus event
information printing system, the current and/or passing information
which shows the famous occurrence generated at the time or near the
time related to the image can be synthesized with the image, and is
printed by improving the personal image printing system which is
constructed with a personal computer as an axis, or the image
printing system such as the above mentioned post type image
outputting apparatus, and thus the printed article with a high
added value can be obtained easily.
[0028] The time related to an original image may be the
photographed day of the original image typically. By searching and
extracting the events information which shows such as the famous
occurrence generated at the same day as a photographed day or the
near time of an original image, and synthesizing with an original
image, those who looked at the synthesized image can grasp the
photographed time of an original image intuitively from the
contents of event information, or can recognize the time background
at the time of original image photographed.
[0029] In the image plus event information printing system
according to this invention, when two or more events information
are retrieved from the sorted data by the event information
retrieval means, the system may has further the event information
selecting means where one or more events information are selected
as user's pleases from the retrieved events information in order to
synthesize with an original image.
[0030] When two or more events information are retrieved, one or
more events information may be automatically determined as the
event information to be added to the original image, by the system
side according to a predetermined priority. It is preferable,
however, to make the user choose favorite events information freely
by using the event information selecting means, upon showing all of
the events information extracted by the event information retrieval
means or showing some of those in higher ranks of the predetermined
priority, since the printed article of a higher added value would
be obtained.
[0031] The image plus event information printing system of this
invention may be constructed as the stand-alone type which installs
all the means in one apparatus, and may constructed with some
apparatuses which bears separate means respectively so as to carry
out a distributed storing and each apparatuses are connected to
each other by the line.
[0032] For example, the image plus event information printing
system according to this invention may comprise a terminal part and
a event information service part, which are connected to each other
via line, wherein the terminal part includes the image data
inputting means, the image editing means and the printing means,
and wherein the event information service part includes the event
information database and the event information retrieval means.
[0033] Alternatively, the image plus event information printing
system according to this invention may comprise a terminal part and
a retrieval and editing part, which are connected to each other via
line, wherein the terminal part includes the image data inputting
means and the printing means, and wherein the retrieval and editing
part includes the current event information database, the current
event information retrieval means, and the image editing means.
[0034] Further, the image plus event information printing system
according to this invention may comprise a terminal part, an
editing part, and an event information service part, wherein the
terminal part and editing part are connected to each other via
line, and the editing part and the event information service part
are connected to each other via line, wherein the terminal part
includes the image data inputting means and the printing means, and
wherein the editing part includes the image editing means, and
wherein the event information service part includes the event
information database and the event information retrieval means, and
the image editing means.
[0035] Furthermore, in this invention, distributed storing of each
means can be carried out at terminal apparatuses and a server, and
a client-server type system can be constructed.
[0036] Namely, in this invention, a server which delivers a
material datum for image synthesis to a terminal or server capable
of editing the image via line is disclosed. The delivery server
comprises:
[0037] an event information database which memorizes the data of
current and/or passing events information being sorted with one or
more items, wherein one of the items consists of the occurrence
time of the event,
[0038] an event information retrieval means for extracting any
event information within a predetermined range being in correlation
to the time which is related to the original image, by retrieving
from the sorted data in the event information database with using
one or more of the items, and
[0039] a transmission means for transmitting the retrieved data to
the terminal or server capable of editing the image.
[0040] Further, in this invention, a server which is connected to a
terminal via line and transmits to the terminal a datum of image
which is synthesized herein is also disclosed. The transmission
server comprises:
[0041] a receiving means for receiving a datum of original
image,
[0042] an event information database which memorizes the data of
current and/or passing events information being sorted with one or
more items, wherein one of the items consists of the occurrence
time of the event,
[0043] an event information retrieval means for extracting any
event information within a predetermined range being in correlation
to the time which is related to the original image, by retrieving
from the sorted data in the event information database with using
one or more of the items, and
[0044] an image editing means for preparing a datum of an image
plus event information, from the datum of original image and the
extracted event information.
[0045] The second aim mentioned can be attained by a dynamic-shot
printing system according to the present invention, which
comprises:
[0046] a dynamic image data procurement means for obtaining a
dynamic image data,
[0047] a static image data specifying means for specifying a scene
recorded in the dynamic image data as the static image,
[0048] an order inputting means for inputting orders for an image
to be output,
[0049] an output content designation data producing means for
preparing an output content designation datum which records the
image to be output and appendix conditions for the image on the
basis of the obtained static image data and the input orders,
and
[0050] a printing means which prints out an printed article of the
image in accordance with the output content designation datum.
[0051] According to this invention, since dynamic image data can be
processed easily, and since the selected shot image contained in a
dynamic image can be printed as it is or the selected shot image
can be printed after it is further received an advanced image
processing, the image printing system and printed article which
enjoy a high added value can be provided.
[0052] As for the output content designation data producing means
of the dynamic image shot printing system according to this
invention, it is desirable to include an editing means for editing
the specified static image datum to the image to be output.
[0053] By establishing such an editing means, it can not only print
the static image specified from the dynamic image data as it is,
but also a newly processed static image data on the basis of the
specified static image. Therefore, the shot image with high added
value can be printed.
[0054] In one embodiment of this invention, the system further
comprises an static image inputting means for inputting a static
image datum, in addition to a dynamic image inputting means for
inputting a dynamic image datum as the dynamic image procurement
means.
[0055] In another embodiment of this invention, the system further
comprises an static image database for storing static image data,
in addition to a dynamic image inputting means for inputting a
dynamic image datum as the dynamic image procurement means.
[0056] In still another embodiment of this invention, the system
further comprises an static image inputting means for inputting a
static image datum, in addition to a dynamic image database for
storing dynamic image data as the dynamic image procurement
means.
[0057] In yet another embodiment of this invention, the system
further comprises an static image database for storing static image
data, in addition to a dynamic image database for storing dynamic
image data as the dynamic image procurement means.
[0058] In an embodiment of this invention, the dynamic image
procurement means comprises a dynamic image inputting means for
inputting a dynamic image datum and a dynamic image database for
storing dynamic image data.
[0059] According to each above mentioned embodiment, by combining
freely the original dynamic image contents and/or original static
image contents brought by a user with dynamic image contents and/or
static image contents possessed by the system or originally
obtainable by the system side, a new image can be easily
synthesized and easily printed out.
[0060] In this invention, the above mentioned static image data
specifying means may comprise a dynamic image viewing means for
playing the input dynamic image datum and displaying the dynamic
image, and a static image selecting means for selecting a scene
displayed in the dynamic image viewing means as the static image
datum.
[0061] The dynamic image viewing means may further comprise a
playback speed control means for controlling the playback speed of
reproduced dynamic image to be in slow motion or frame-by-frame
advance at a choice timing.
[0062] The dynamic image viewing means may also further comprises a
photographic playback producing means for converting the reproduced
dynamic image into a photographic playback at a choice timing.
[0063] The above mentioned dynamic image viewing means the dynamic
image viewing means may further comprises a pausing means for
pausing the reproduced dynamic image at a choice timing.
[0064] The static image data can be more easily chosen by adopting
combining any two or all of the playback speed control means, a
photographic playback producing means, and the pausing means.
[0065] The above mentioned static image data specifying means may
further comprise a static image data storing means for storing 2 or
more static image data while giving a storing number in order to
each image datum.
[0066] The static image data storing means may further comprise a
storing adjustment means which can delete a part of or all of
stored static image data, and modify the storing number.
[0067] The static image data storing means may further comprise a
pre-view displaying means for displaying images of the stored
static image data in order of storing.
[0068] In this invention, the editing means is capable of editing
separately 2 or more static image data stored in the static image
storing means into the corresponding number of images to be output
as printed articles.
[0069] Moreover, in this invention, the editing means is capable of
editing 2 or more static image data stored in the static image
storing means into a pre-view image as the image to be output which
displays the stored static images within a screen.
[0070] The third aim mentioned can be attained by an additional
information printing system according to the present invention,
which comprises a function of concurrent providing a printed
article having additional information to a customer, at when a
printing service system which prints an image datum into an image
printed articles on a requirement of the customer and delivers it
to the customer delivers the printed article.
[0071] In this invention, the additional information printing
service system may further comprises a point producing means which
gives to the customer points in proportion to his utilization
frequency of the system. The system may further comprises a
questionnaire inputting means, and the printed article having
additional information is provided at when the customer gives an
answer to a questionnaire by the questionnaire inputting means. The
additional information to be printed may contain at least one of
information of the point, shop information and advertising
information.
[0072] Since according to this invention a printed matter which can
give various information (recommended information, discount
information, etc. on a neighboring shopping center) is added to the
printed article which the customer demands and they are
concurrently provided for a customer, a customer can acquire
advantageous information. The donor who carries an advertisement
can advertise efficiently and easily. Moreover, by adding service
points according to utilization frequency as one form of service,
and accumulating the service points, a customer can be provided
with various services (discount service etc.), and the number of
accumulation points can be checked with the additional information
printed matter where it is printed. Furthermore, if an answer for a
questionnaire can be obtained from a customer in another form of
service, by using the waiting time of printing, the customer can
acquire new information by receiving a printed article which
printed new additional information (for example, a first-class
information etc.) as thanks for giving answer. The donor of the
printing matter can acquire an opinion for improving by the
questionnaire result reflecting a customer's idea.
[0073] Furthermore, the third aim mentioned can be attained by an
additional information printing service system according to the
present invention, which comprises:
[0074] an inputting means for inputting an image datum and/or
information,
[0075] a storing means for storing the input image data and/or
information,
[0076] an image data/information extracting means for extracting a
image and/or information to be needed, from the stored data,
and
[0077] a printing means for printing the input image datum and/or
the extracted image datum and/or information by the extracting
means.
[0078] Since this system is equipped with an input part as an
inputting means by which a customer or a printing apparatus donor
inputs image data or information, a database as a means to shop the
image data or information which carried out above mentioned input,
a control part wherein with the demand from the above mentioned
customer or printing apparatus, the information data demanded is
specified from the stored image data or information data and the
specified image data or information data is extracted, and further
an output part (printer) as a printing means to print the image
data which was input or demanded by the customer, and to print the
information data, the service which was described above can be
offered.
[0079] Furthermore, the additional information printing service
system according to this invention may be characterized by the fact
that the system is provided to a printing apparatus. By this fact,
the customer can print freely and easily can print the image data
of his wants at the shop (shopping center etc.) where the printing
apparatus is installed, without going to the print specialty shop,
but along with the same additional service as that he receives at
the print specialty shop.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0080] FIG. 1 is the diagram showing the outline of the image
printing system according to the first aspect of this
invention.
[0081] FIG. 2 is the diagram showing the outline of the image
printing system according to the first aspect of this
invention.
[0082] FIG. 3 is the diagram showing the outline of the image
printing system according to the first aspect of this
invention.
[0083] FIG. 4 is the diagram showing the layout of the image plus
event information.
[0084] FIG. 5 is the perspective diagram showing an embodiment of
the terminal part used for the image printing system according to
the first aspect of this invention.
[0085] FIG. 6 is the block diagram showing an embodiment of the
image printing system according to the first aspect of this
invention.
[0086] FIG. 7 is the flow chart which shows the procedure which
synthesizes events information in an original image in an
embodiment of the image printing system according to the first
aspect of this invention, it.
[0087] FIG. 8 is a start screen in an embodiment of the image
printing system according to this invention.
[0088] FIG. 9 is a main menu screen in an embodiment of the image
printing system according to the first aspect of this
invention.
[0089] FIG. 10 is the sub menu screen of photograph edit in an
embodiment of the image printing system according to the first
aspect of this invention.
[0090] FIG. 11 is the guidance screen which chooses image data's
reading source in an embodiment of the image printing system
according to the first aspect of this invention.
[0091] FIG. 12 is the guidance screen of the smart media insertion
method in an embodiment of the image printing system according to
the first aspect of this invention.
[0092] FIG. 13 is the guidance screen of the compact flash card
insertion method in an embodiment of the image printing system
according to the first aspect of this invention.
[0093] FIG. 14 is the guidance screen of the floppy disk insertion
method in an embodiment of the image printing system according to
the first aspect of this invention.
[0094] FIG. 15 is the guidance screen of the PC card insertion
method in an embodiment of the image printing system according to
the first aspect of this invention.
[0095] FIG. 16 is the guidance screen of the CD-ROM insertion
method in an embodiment of the image printing system according to
the first aspect of this invention.
[0096] FIG. 17 is the thumb nail image display screen which
enumerates the images read for photograph edit in an embodiment of
the image printing system according to the first aspect of this
invention.
[0097] FIG. 18 is the guidance screen which chooses the reading
size of a scanner in an embodiment of the image printing system
according to the first aspect of this invention.
[0098] FIG. 19 is the guidance screen to which it shows the
manuscript set method of a scanner in an embodiment of the image
printing system according to the first aspect of this
invention.
[0099] FIG. 20 is the guidance screen which displays the selected
original image in an embodiment of the image printing system
according to the first aspect of this invention.
[0100] FIG. 21 is the guidance screen which inputs the photographed
day of an original image in an embodiment of the image printing
system according to the first aspect of this invention.
[0101] FIG. 22 is the guidance screen which checks the photographed
day read in recording media in an embodiment of the image printing
system according to the first aspect of this invention.
[0102] FIG. 23 is the guidance screen which chooses the genre of
events information in an embodiment of the image printing system
according to the first aspect of this invention.
[0103] FIG. 24 is the guidance screen which further selects the
extracted events information.
[0104] FIG. 25 is the guidance screen which chooses the layout of
the image plus event information.
[0105] FIG. 26 is the guidance screen which checks the synthesized
image plus event information.
[0106] FIG. 27 is the guidance screen which sets up print number of
sheets when synthesizing the image plus event information.
[0107] FIG. 28 is the guidance screen of the charge payment
displayed when synthesizing the image plus event information.
[0108] FIG. 29 is the guidance screen which asks for the
confirmation of a charge when synthesizing the image plus event
information in an embodiment of the image printing system according
to the first aspect of this invention, it
[0109] FIG. 30 is the guidance screen of the smart media removal
method in an embodiment of the image printing system according to
the first aspect of this invention.
[0110] FIG. 31 is the guidance screen of the compact flash card
removal method in an embodiment of the image printing system
according to the first aspect of this invention.
[0111] FIG. 32 is the guidance screen of the floppy disk removal
method in an embodiment of the image printing system according to
the first aspect of this invention.
[0112] FIG. 33 is the guidance screen of the PC card removal method
in an embodiment of the image printing system according to the
first aspect of this invention.
[0113] FIG. 34 is the guidance screen of the CD-ROM removal method
in an embodiment of the image printing system according to the
first aspect of this invention.
[0114] FIG. 35 is the guidance screen of the scanner manuscript
removal method in an embodiment of the image printing system
according to the first aspect of this invention.
[0115] FIG. 36 is a guidance screen under print execution in an
embodiment of the image printing system according to the first
aspect of this invention
[0116] FIG. 37 is an end screen in an embodiment of the image
printing system according to the first aspect of this
invention.
[0117] FIG. 38 is the flow chart which shows the procedure which
synthesizes a frame with an original image in an embodiment of the
image printing system according to the first aspect of this
invention.
[0118] FIG. 39 is the thumb nail image display screen of frames
used in the frame synthesis in an embodiment of the image printing
system according to the first aspect of this invention.
[0119] FIG. 40 is the expansion display screen of the selected
frame.
[0120] FIG. 41 is the guidance screen which carries out marking to
the date of a calendar frame.
[0121] FIG. 42 is the guidance screen which adjusts the synthesized
image in the frame synthesis.
[0122] FIG. 43 is the guidance screen of the charge payment
displayed when frame synthesis is performed.
[0123] FIG. 44 is the guidance screen which asks for the
confirmation of a charge when frame synthesis is performed.
[0124] FIG. 45 is the diagram showing the outline of the image
printing system according to the second aspect of this
invention.
[0125] FIG. 46 is the diagram showing one embodiment of the image
printing system according to the second aspect of this
invention.
[0126] FIG. 47 is a perspective diagram showing an example of
apparatus which carries out the image printing system according to
the second aspect of this invention.
[0127] FIG. 48 is the block diagram showing an embodiment of the
image printing system according to the second aspect of this
invention.
[0128] FIG. 49 is the flow chart which shows the first half of the
procedure of a digital photograph in an embodiment of the image
printing system according to the second aspect of this
invention.
[0129] FIG. 50 is the flow chart which shows the second half of the
procedure of a digital photograph in an embodiment of the image
printing system according to the second aspect of this
invention.
[0130] FIG. 51 is the flow chart which shows the first half of the
procedure of frame synthesis in an embodiment of the image printing
system according to the second aspect of this invention.
[0131] FIG. 52 is the flow chart which shows the first half of the
procedure of a seal print in an embodiment of the image printing
system according to the second aspect of this invention.
[0132] FIG. 53 is the screen which the kind of original data
specifies in an embodiment of the image printing system according
to the second aspect of this invention.
[0133] FIG. 54 is the screen which specifies a printed article to
be output in an embodiment of the image printing system according
to the second aspect of this invention.
[0134] FIG. 55 is the screen which chooses image data's reading
source in an embodiment of the image printing system according to
the second aspect of this invention.
[0135] FIG. 56 is a screen for specifying static image data from
dynamic image data in an embodiment of the image printing system
according to the second aspect of this invention, it.
[0136] FIG. 57 is another screen for specifying static image data
from dynamic image data in an embodiment of the image printing
system according to the second aspect of this invention.
[0137] FIG. 58 is the screen which sets up the print number of
sheets of a image in an embodiment of the image printing system
according to the second aspect of this invention, it.
[0138] FIG. 59 is another screen which sets up the print number of
sheets of a image in an embodiment of the image printing system
according to the second aspect of this invention.
[0139] FIG. 60 is a guidance screen under print execution in an
embodiment of the image printing system according to the second
aspect of this invention.
[0140] FIG. 61 is the expansion display screen of the selected
frame in an embodiment of the image printing system according to
the second aspect of this invention.
[0141] FIG. 62 is the operation screen which adjusts the
synthesized image of frame synthesis in an embodiment of the image
printing system according to the second aspect of this
invention.
[0142] FIG. 63 is the screen which specifies a printed article to
be output in an embodiment of the image printing system according
to the second aspect of this invention.
[0143] FIG. 64 is the outline view of system according to the third
aspect of this invention.
[0144] FIG. 65 is the block diagram showing an embodiment of the
additional information printing system according to the third
aspect of this invention.
[0145] FIG. 66 is the perspective view of a printing apparatus.
[0146] FIG. 67 is the flow chart of the operation form in an
embodiment of the system according to the third aspect of the
system of this invention.
[0147] FIG. 68 is an example of a content of the additional
information print with which a customer is provided.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT OF INVENTION
[0148] Now, this invention will be described in detail with
referring to the preferred embodiments. However, this invention is
not limited to the following preferred embodiments.
Image Plus Event Information Printing System
[0149] The image plus event information printing system according
to this invention comprises at least following means, that is:
(1) an image data inputting means for inputting original image
data,
(2) an event information database which memorizes the data of
current and/or passing events information being sorted with one or
more items, wherein one of the items consists of the occurrence
time of the event,
[0150] (3) an event information retrieval means for extracting any
event information within a predetermined range being in correlation
to the time which is related to the original image, by retrieving
from the sorted data in the event information database with using
one or more of the items,
(4) an image editing means for preparing a datum of an image plus
event information, from the datum of original image and the
extracted event information, and
(5) a printing means for printing the image plus current events
information in accordance with the datum prepared by the image
editing means.
[0151] However, the system may have other means optionally, such as
a means for inputting order contents, a material database which
memorizes material images other than events information, and a
means for collecting a charge. Moreover, the image plus event
information printing system of this invention may be constructed as
the stand-alone type which stored all the means in one apparatus,
or may be constructed by some apparatuses which carried out
distributed storing of each means and which are connected each
other by the line. Furthermore, distributed storing of each means
may be carried out at terminal apparatus and a server, and a
client/server type system may be constructed.
[0152] In order to print the image plus event information with the
image plus event information printing system of this invention, at
first a image datum which recorded an original image is input in a
system by the image data inputting means. Then, the event
information which shows a famous current/passing event occurred at
a date near to the time being related to the input original image
(for example, famous event occurred at the same day with the
photographed day of the original image, or within about one month
before and after the photographed day) is searched and extracted
from the events information database by using a event information
retrieval means, and the extracted event information is synthesized
with an original image by using the image editing means. Finally,
the synthesized image may be printed by the printing means.
[0153] The outline of this invention will be explained with
reference to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is an constructive embodiment of the
printing system according to this invention (1A). The print system
1A comprises a terminal part 2 which can receive an order and can
output a printed article, and a events information service part
(events information distribution server) 3 which offers events
information in response to the demand from a terminal part, and the
above mentioned terminal part 2 and the above mentioned events
information service part 3 are connected through a line 6. The line
6 may be an exclusive or open network line of various scales such
as Internet, intranet, LAN. Alternatively, it may be a line which
simply connects one main body with one backyard print part.
[0154] In addition, in the illustrated printing system 1A, the
terminal part 2 is constituted by the post type image outputting
apparatus which is a commercial image output system, on the other
hand, the events information service part 3 is constituted by the
events information distribution server which an entrepreneur other
than that of the post type image outputting apparatus manages, and
both are connected by the Internet as a line 6.
[0155] The terminal part 2 is equipped with an image data inputting
means 7, an order inputting means 8, an image editing means 9, an
other material databases 10, an printing means 11, and a fee
collecting means 12. On the other hand, the events information
service part 3 is equipped with an events information database 13,
an event information retrieval means 14, an event information
selecting means 15, and the fee collection means 16 of the events
information service part.
[0156] In order to print the image plus event information using
printing system 1A, the print mode which can print the image plus
event information is first chosen by using the order inputting
means 8 and the mode is started. The order contents which should be
outputted may be input optionally by using the order inputting
means 8. However, it is possible to set up the system so that a
standardized procedure may be performed automatically after
starting the printing system, without receiving no order from the
user, up to the final step where the image plus event information
is printed. Thus, the order inputting means is not essential to the
system of this invention.
[0157] several alternatives for order contents may be beforehand
prepared by the image printing system side in order that the
customer can decide his order content with ease by selecting freely
from the alternatives. It is desirable to show the customer the
alternatives for order contents which can be chosen on a display
means (not shown), and to guide input operation of order contents.
As the display means, a CRT, a liquid crystal display or the like,
are used commonly, but it can be a simpler device. For example,
when applying the printing system of this invention to the post
type image outputting apparatus mentioned above, it is possible to
stand a bulletin board which itemized the operation method by the
side of the terminal part. In addition thereto, a substitute
display device such as various kinds of screen panels, plasma
displays or the like, can be used as well. As the order contents,
for example, the selection in case there are two or more print
modes, the selection of specifying which frame image should be used
in case two or more image data for plural frames are input,
specification of the time (image related time) relevant to an
original image, designation of a retrieval item which should be
directed for a event information retrieval means in addition to the
image related time, directions of the contents of edit including
the synthesis with the event information and other material image,
expansion or reduction of the image, etc., designation of print
number of sheets, the determination of size, etc. may be
exemplified.
[0158] As the order content inputting device 8, for example,
various kinds of pointers such as a touch panel provided integrally
with a display device such as a CRT, and a liquid crystal panel, a
keyboard, a mouse, and a track ball, can be used. Moreover, the
DPOF function (digital print order format) provided in a digital
camera can be used as well.
[0159] Next, an image datum 17 which recorded the original image is
input by using the image data inputting means 7. The image data to
be inputted are mainly a photograph image taken by a digital camera
or the like, and recorded in a recording medium as digital data,
but it is not limited thereto. For example, a computer graphic
image produced by a personal computer, digital image data of a
synthesized image produced by the editing process of a photography
by a personal computer, or any articles which have already printed
out, such as those of photograph image, synthesized image, computer
graphic image, a handwritten illustration or the like, can be used
as well.
[0160] As the image data inputting means 7, for example, reading
machines corresponding to each recording medium, such as a compact
flash memory (CF), a smart medium, a compact disc (CD), a
magneto-optic disc (MO), a flexible disc (FD), and a PC card, a
connector to be connected with a digital camera, capable of reading
image data from a memory of the digital camera, can be used. As the
image data inputting means 7, a reading device such as a scanner
for reading an image from a hard copy, a film, or another printed
article so as to convert the same to digital data, can be used as
well. By including an image reading device capable of directly
scanning an image together with a recording medium reading device
in the image data inputting means 7, even in case the digital image
data are not provided, the image printing apparatus according to
the present invention can be utilized. For example, in case the
negative film is lost, additional prints can be provided easily
from the printed photograph. Furthermore, a communication apparatus
which can receive an original image from an external server may be
used as an image data inputting means 7. It is preferable to
include a plurality of reading devices of different kinds in the
image data inputting means 7 in order to improve the applicability
of the image printing apparatus of the present invention.
[0161] Next, the events information which shows the occurrence
generated at a time near to the time relevant to the input original
image is searched and extracted from the data of the events
information memorized in the events information database 13 by
using the event information retrieval means 14.
[0162] In the events information database 13, for example, the
events information data which specify socially famous occurrences
are accumulated. The "socially famous occurrence" would refer to
the occurrence which is expected to be remembered and recognized
with the exact or about occurrence time thereof by many members in
a society, or refer to the occurrence which comes to be a common
knowledge in the society, wherein the society may be that organized
in a predetermined area, for example, an administrative district
region of a prefecture level such as Tokyo, a larger region level
such as Kanto, a nation level such as Japan, or worldwide level.
The socially famous occurrence may include a historical incident, a
large calamity, a topic about a famous entertainer, etc. Event
information denotes an information capable of identifying the
content of event, such as a socially famous occurrence, on a
printed matter, and it can be constituted by words, text,
photograph, or picture which each indicate the event, singly or in
arbitrary combination thereof. Moreover, since any pattern like a
bar code which can reproduce a sound when it is read with a certain
reader, it can be used as event information and thus the contents
of a socially famous occurrence can be attached on a printed matter
as this pattern and it can be identified with a sound. As a
concrete example, the event information may comprise a combination
of some brief words which show the socially famous occurrence, a
description for the date of the occurrence, and a thumb nail image
which indicates one scene of the occurrence.
[0163] In the events information database 13, the data of the
events information which specify events, such as the socially
famous occurrences are sorted or classified by the generating time
of occurrence, and preferably, they are pluralistically sorted or
classified by two or more items containing the generating time of
an occurrence, and memorized. Therefore, an event information 18
regarding the famous occurrence which was generated at the time
near the time relevant to the input original image (image related
time) can be searched and extracted from the data in the events
information database by using the event generating time as the
search item at the event information retrieval means 14. Moreover,
a priority may be assigned to each events information accumulated
in a database so that the search result can display the events
information extracted in preferential order from when many events
information are extracted by the search.
[0164] The time which is related to the original image is typically
the photographed day of the original image. By searching and
extracting the events information which shows the famous occurrence
generated at the same day as or the near time of the photographed
day of original image, and synthesizing the extracted event
information with the original image, those who looked at the
synthesized image can grasp the photographed time of an original
image intuitively from the contents of events information, or can
recognize the time background at the time of original image
photographed. However, the image related time is not limited to a
photographed day. That is, those who perform image edit using this
system can choose a certain time related to the original image
arbitrarily, and can specify as the image related time. The image
related time may be input into the event information retrieval
means 14 by using the order inputting means (numeral 21), or may
read automatically the data of the photographed day which is
recorded along with image data, and transmitted to the event
information retrieval means 14 (numeral 22).
[0165] In the event information retrieval means 14, a proper time
range is set up on the basis of the image related time for
searching, and events information for events each of which
occurrence time belongs within the time range are extracted. The
time range may be set as a proper time range which includes some
future from the image related time, and/or some bygone days from
the image related time. Alternatively, it may be set to a
predetermined period wherein the image related time belongs in
arbitrary time units on a calendar (for example, year, month, or
day). In accordance with the former method, for example, the events
information which indicates the events generated less than 3 months
before the image related time, or the events generated within six
months each before or after image related time may be searched. In
accordance with the latter method, the events information which
indicates events generated in the same A.D. annual as the image
related time belonging year may be searched. Since the events
information after the image related time would be not amply
accumulated in the system of this invention when using the system
at a time relatively close to the image related time, it is
desirable to set up and search the range of a proper period before
the image related time. On the other hand, when using the printing
system of this invention after passing to some extent from image
related time, it is desirable to set up and search the range of a
relatively extended period before and after the image related time,
or the range of the same year or the same month that the image
related time belongs.
[0166] As far as it is convenient on the operation of this printing
system, arbitrary units can be adopted as the time unit for sorting
the events by the occurrence time in the events information
database 13, as the time unit for specifying the image related
time, and as the time unit for setting a searching time range in
correlation with the image related time, and the respective time
units may be set independently by using separate units. Usually,
the occurrence time and the image related time are specified per
day unit, and the searching time is set and fixed to one of a day
unit, a month unit, and a year unit, or set so that the customer
can select one of these unit arbitrarily. For example, when image
related time is specified with Mar. 3, 1999, the event information
whose generating day is on March 3 can be hit even then using any
of year unit (1999), month unit (March, 1999), day unit (Mar. 3,
1999). The event information whose generating day is on March 10
can not be hit when using the day unit, while can be hit with the
month unit and with the year unit. The event information whose
generating day is on May 3 can be hit only with the year unit.
[0167] In the events information database 13, when other
classification items is adopted in addition to the occurrence time
of the event, and events information are pluralistically classified
or sorted with these items, events information can be
pluralistically searched using two or more searching items
corresponding to the classification items. Therefore, the event
information whose occurrence time corresponds at image related time
can be searched in each genre or categories. For example, even if
the image related time to be used is the same, it is possible to
extract only the event information in the entertainments category,
or alternatively, only event information in the international
political field. Further, it is possible to extract any events
information regardless the genre, in spite of being classified
pluralistically. Namely, searching with non genre can be performed
in expectation of a result that two or more events information over
a different field would be extracted.
[0168] When there are much hit number of events in searching,
according to the priority assigned to events information
individually in advance or according to the predetermined method
for deciding priority of the extracted events information, one or
several event information may be selected for image synthesis.
Moreover, in order to cope with the case that there are much hit
number of events in searching, an event information selecting means
15 can be provided to the system. When two or more events
information is hit by the event information retrieval means 14, the
all of hit events information are displayed on the display means
(not shown), or only several of hit events information are
displayed by a selection according to the priority assigned to
events information individually in advance or according to the
predetermined method for deciding priority of the retrieved events
information. The customer can choose freely 1 or two or more events
information that he wishes to synthesize with his original image,
from the displayed events information by using the event
information selecting means 15.
[0169] It is desirable to make the customer recognize the event
information 18 which is extracted from the events information
database 13 by the retrieval means 14, and further optionally
chosen by the event information selecting means 15, by displaying
the events information 18 on the display means (not shown), and it
is more desirable to obtain the customer's confirmation of using
the events information extracted or chosen to the image
synthesis.
[0170] The events information database 13 can be built in memory
storage, such as a hard disk in a computer. Moreover, the event
information retrieval means 14 and the event information selecting
means 15 are realizable by executing the program stored in memory
storage, such as a memory device and a hard disk, with the
computer.
[0171] The event information 18 which is extracted by the event
information retrieval means 14, and optionally further chosen by
the event information selecting means 15 is transmitted to the
image editing means 9 (numeral 23), and is synthesized with the
original image. In the illustrated printing system 1A, the image
editing means 9 can perform various edits, such as synthesis with
material images other than the event information such as a frame,
expansion and reduction of image, besides addition of events
information. That is, in this printing system 1A, when the print
mode which performs addition of events information or other image
edits is chosen by the order inputting means (numeral 24), or when
being set up so that addition of events information or other image
edits may be performed at anytimes, while the image data 17 of an
original image is transmitted to the image editing means 9 (numeral
25), the events information 18 (numeral 23) and the other contents
of edit (numeral 26) are also transmitted to the image editing
means 9 according to print mode and order contents. In the other
material databases 10, the data of material images other than
events information, such as frame, are accumulated, and when a
direction for synthesizing any material image other than event
information with the original image is included in the edit
contents, a material image is read from the other material database
10, and transmitted to the image editing means 9 (numeral 27).
[0172] The edit work by the image editing means 9 can be done with
displaying the image in the middle of edit on the display means
(not shown), and being checked. The synthesizing position of the
events information to the original image in the synthesized image
is not particularly limited. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the
events information 31 can be given to the lower end (FIG. 4A) of
the original image 30, an upper end (FIG. 4B), right side (FIG.
4C), left side (FIG. 4D), the lower right side (FIG. 4E), etc.
Moreover, as shown in FIG. 4F, it is possible to synthesize events
information with a frame so as to surround all the circumferences
of an original image.
[0173] Thus, the image data 19 as an edit image is generated by the
image editing means 9, and especially when the direction for adding
events information is included in the print mode or order contents,
the image data of the image plus event information is
generated.
[0174] The image synthesizing means 9 is realizable by executing
the program stored in memory storage, such as a memory and a hard
disk, with the computer. Moreover, the other material databases 10
can be built in memory storage, such as a hard disk in the
computer.
[0175] Next, the image data 19 of the edit image generated by the
image editing means 9 is transmitted to the printing means 11.
However, when printing an original image as it is, not the image
data 19 of an edit image but the image data 17 of an original image
is transmitted to the printing means 11 as image data which should
be output. Furthermore, other print conditions required in addition
to the image data which specifies the image to be output, such as
number of sheets, size, and paper to bee used are transmitted to
the printing means 11 (numeral 28). And the edited image or
original image is printed as order by the printing means.
Especially, when the direction of synthesizing the original image
30 and the events information 31 is included in print mode or order
contents, according to the image data of the edit image generated
with the image editing means 9, the printed article 29 of the image
plus event information is printed by the printing means 11.
[0176] As a concrete outputting method of the printing device 11,
for example, an outputting method suitable for printing based on
digital image data, such as the sublimation type thermal transfer
method, the melting type thermal transfer method, and the ink jet,
can be utilized.
[0177] In the image printing system of the present invention, a fee
charging means 12 may be provided for collecting the fee for
outputting and providing an image. In case the fee charging means
is provided, the fee charging means is driven after driving the
order content inputting device, more preferably after driving the
image editing means if the image editing is performed and before
outputting a printed article by the drive of the printing means.
While the fee collection means 12 of the terminal part 2 totals and
collects the basic fee of print service, and the option service
charge generated by the image editing means 9 or the printing means
11 which can be performed in the terminal part 2 the charge of
access to the event information retrieval means 14 currently
installed in the events information service part 3 separated
physically to the terminal part 2, the charge of sort fee thereof,
the data rental fee of the events information chosen by the event
information selecting means 15, etc. are managed and collected. The
fee collection means 12 of the terminal part 2 may manage directly
the expense generated by management of the events information
service part 3, and may collect it from the customer. Alternatively
it is possible to establish the fee collection means 16 separately
in the events information service part 3, and the expense generated
from the events information service part 3 is managed by the fee
collection means 16 in the events information service part 3. The
fee collection means 12 of the terminal part 2 may be indirectly
managed in response to directions from the fee collection means 16
about the expense generated within the events information service
part 3, and may carry out package collection of the expense
generated within the terminal part 2 to the user, and the expense
generated within the events information service part 3.
[0178] It is preferable to show the amount to be collected by the
fee charging means to a user on the display device (not shown)
together with the order content. Particularly, at the printing
system 1A illustrated, since the events information service part 3
is constituted by the events information distribution server which
an entrepreneur different from that of the post type image
outputting apparatus as a terminal part 2 manages, after accessing
the events information service part 3, searching events information
and events information's coming to hand, even if the customer stops
edit of a image and the work of a print on the way, it is necessary
to ask the customer for the expense generated in the events
information service part 3. Therefore, it is desirable to tell the
customer about the information of the expense which will be charged
even when a procedure is stopped on the way, while performing the
procedure of this printing system at any time by the display means
(not shown). The case where a user demands addition of events
information, It is displayed that "The charge of access to a
database, the charge of retrieval, and a data rental fee are needed
separately. And, such expense generated by this option is charged
even when you discontinue the print work." or so. Further, it is
possible to display, "The charge of access occurred" etc., when a
database is accessed, to display "The charge of retrieval occurs"
etc., when starting retrieval, and to display "A data rental fee
occurs" etc., when taking in events information in the terminal
part 2.
[0179] When the customer inserts a bill and/or a coin in the fee
charging means according to the guide of the amount display by the
display device, the fee charging means calculates the accepted
amount and returns the change if any.
[0180] The fee collection means 12 of the terminal part 2 can be
constituted combining suitably a coin and bill discernment device,
change return device, the computer that manages a fee collection
state. Since the fee collection means 16 of the events information
service part 3 functions only for managing the total of a charge
and the collection situation by the fee collection means 12, and it
is not necessary to do collection work, it is realizable by
executing the program stored in memory storage, such as a memory
and a hard disk, with the computer.
[0181] A receipt producing means may be provided in the fee
charging means. The receipt producing means automatically produces
the receipt having the collected amount and the order content
printed thereon after completing the fee collection by the fee
charging means. The receipt producing means may further comprise a
receipt producing eliminating means so that the producing of the
receipt can be eliminated selectively in case the customer does not
need the receipt. In this case, after completing the collection of
the fee, an operation guidance "Would you like a receipt
published?" or the like is displayed on the display device (not
shown) so that the user presses a corresponding touch panel button
or keyboard for executing the choice of producing or not
producing.
[0182] In this invention, a client/server type printing system can
be constructed by distributed storing of each means to constitute a
image printing system at a terminal part, and one or more servers.
In image printing system 1A shown in FIG. 1, the terminal part is
constituted by the post type image outputting apparatus which is a
commercial image output system. It has a image editing means 9 by
which various image edits including synthesis of events information
can be performed as well as the image data input apparatus 7 and
the printing means 11. On the other hand, the events information
service means 3 comprises an events information distribution server
which an entrepreneur different from that of a post type image
outputting apparatus manages, and has the events information
database 13, the event information retrieval means 14, and the
event information selecting means 15. Moreover, although it is not
illustrated, the events information distribution server as a events
information service part 3 has a transmitting means to transmit to
the terminal which can image edit the data of the events
information 18 extracted by the event information retrieval means.
And as for the post type image outputting apparatus which is the
terminal part 2, and the events information distribution server
which is the events information service means 3, both are connected
by the Internet as a line 6.
[0183] FIG. 2 shows another embodiment of the image printing system
according to this invention (1B). In the image printing system 1B
shown in FIG. 2, the terminal part 2 which can receive an order and
can output a printed article, and the retrieval and editorial part
4 which can perform image edit which includes synthesis of an
original image and events information, while can perform the
retrieval and extraction of event information according to the
demand from a terminal part, are connected through the line 6. The
terminal part 2 is equipped with the image data inputting means 7,
the order inputting means 8, the printing means 11, and the fee
collection means 12 in the image printing system 1B. On the other
hand, the retrieval and editorial part 4 has the image editing
means 9, the other material databases 10, the events information
database 13, the event information retrieval means 14, the event
information selecting means 15, and the fee collection means 32 of
the retrieval and editorial part 4. In image printing system 1B,
although the image editing means 9 and the other material database
10 are installed in the retrieval and editorial part 4 instead of
the terminal part 2, the flow of the data between each means is the
same as that of the above mentioned image printing system 1A.
[0184] In image printing system 1B shown in FIG. 2, since it is not
necessary to give an advanced image edit function to the terminal
part 2, the terminal part can be constituted by a personal image
printing system built as an axis with a personal computer, on the
other hand, the retrieval and editorial part 4 can be constructed
by a event information synthesizing server managed commercially,
and both can be connected by the Internet as a line 6. Moreover,
although it is not shown in FIG. 2, the events information
synthesizing server as a retrieval and editorial part 4 has a
receiving means to receive the image data of the original image
transmitted from the terminal part 2, and a transmitting means to
transmit the image data of the image plus event information
generated with the image editing means 9 to the terminal part
2.
[0185] FIG. 3 shows still another embodiment of the image printing
system according to this invention (1C). In the image printing
system 1C shown in FIG. 3, a terminal part 2 which can output a
printed article on an acceptance of order, an event information
service means 3 which can search a event information and extract it
according to the demand from the terminal part, and an editorial
part 5 which can perform image edit including synthesis of an
original image and events information according to the demand from
the terminal part are connected to each other through the line 6.
The terminal part 2 is equipped with the image data inputting means
7, the order inputting means 8, the printing means 11, and the fee
collection means 12 in image printing system 1C. The events
information service means 3 is equipped with an events information
database 13, an event information retrieval means 14, an event
information selecting means 15, and a fee collection means 32 for
the events information offer means 3. Furthermore, the editorial
part 5 has an image editing means 9, an other material database 10,
and a fee collection means 33 for the editorial department. In
image printing system 1C, although the image editing means 9 and
the other material database 10 are installed in the independent
editorial part 5 instead of the terminal part 2, the flow of the
data between each means is the same as that of the above mentioned
image printing system 1A.
[0186] In image printing system 1C shown in FIG. 3, like the above
mentioned image printing system 1B, since it is not necessary to
give an advanced image edit function to the terminal part 2, the
terminal part can be constituted by a personal image printing
system built as an axis with a personal computer, on the other
hand, the event information service means 3 and the editorial part
5 each can be constructed by a server managed commercially, and all
of these can be connected by the Internet as a line 6. Moreover,
although it is not shown in FIG. 3, the server as an editorial part
5 has a receiving means to receive the image data of the original
image transmitted from the terminal part 2 and the event
information transmitted from the event information service means 3,
and a transmitting means to transmit the image data of the image
plus event information generated with the image editing means 9 to
the terminal part 2.
[0187] In addition, particularly when performing retrieval and
image edit of event information using the external server via the
Internet, a browsing software (the so-called browser) can realize a
function required for those work.
[0188] Next, the construction of apparatus capable of carrying out
this invention will be explained through an example of construction
of apparatus capable of carrying out the image printing system 1A
shown in FIG. 1.
[0189] FIG. 5 shows the external appearance of the post type image
outputting apparatus 34 used as the terminal part 2 of the image
printing system 1A. In FIG. 5, a screen of a monitor 35 with a
touch panel is disposed on the upper front surface of the post type
image outputting apparatus 34. The monitor 35 with a touch panel
may be a CRT or liquid crystal panel. The monitor 35 with a touch
panel performs as a display device for displaying the operation
guidance, the operation state, the read out image or the processed
image or the like as well as a device for the inputting operation
for inputting an order content including the search items of the
event information or the like.
[0190] Insertion ports 36 to 40 for various recording media are
provided sideways to the monitor 35 with a touch panel. A scanner
reading surface 41 is provided on a horizontal part dividing the
upper part and the lower part for reading the image of a printed
article and processing the same to digital data. In this
embodiment, these are a part of the image data inputting means. In
this embodiment, as the insertion ports for the various recording
media, specifically, a flexible disc insertion port 36, a CD-ROM
insertion port 37, a PC card insertion port 38, a smart medium
insertion port 39, and a compact flash insertion port 40 at a
position on the whole. Moreover, the main bodies of each reading
device are installed inside the housing of the post type image
outputting apparatus 34 corresponding to the insertion port of each
recording medium. A shutter (not shown) may be provided on each
insertion port so that the recording medium cannot be taken out
until collection of the fee is completed.
[0191] In the lower part of the post type image outputting
apparatus 34, a maintenance key 42, a speaker 43, a coin insertion
port 44, a coin return lever 45, a bill insertion port 46, a change
return port 47, a receipt outlet port 48, a printed article (for
standard printing) outlet port 49, a printed article (for pre-cut
seal) outlet port 50, and a front door opening/closing key 51 are
disposed. The maintenance key 42 is a key for switching an ordinary
drive mode capable of accepting a customer, and an administration
mode for setting the image printing system or maintenance by an
administrator. The speaker 43 is for reproducing the sound, BGM,
effect sound or the like while waiting or operation.
[0192] In this embodiment, the coin insertion port 44, the coin
return lever 45, the bill insertion port 46, and the change return
port 47 constitutes a part of the fee charging means. A customer
would pay for the fee by inserting a coin in the coin insertion
port 44 and/or inserting a bill in the bill insertion port 46. In
case there is a change, it is discharged from the change return
port 47 so that it is received by the customer. Moreover, In case a
coin is choked, it is discharged from the change return port 47 by
turning the coin return lever 45 so that it is received by the
customer.
[0193] In this embodiment, the receipt outlet port 48 constitutes a
part of the receipt producing means and the order receipt note
producing means. After collecting the fee by the fee charging
means, a receipt with the collected amount and the order content
printed is discharged from the receipt outlet port 48.
[0194] In this embodiment, the printed article (for standard
printing) outlet port 49 and the printed article (for pre-cut seal)
outlet port 50 constitute parts of the printing means. After the
customer inputs the command for printing, by touching any button of
the touch panel, or so, the customer may receive a printed article
discharged from the printed article outlet port 49 or the printed
article outlet port 50.
[0195] By turning the front door opening/closing key 51, the front
door is opened so that the maintenance work for each device
installed inside the housing can be executed. In the housing of the
post type image outputting apparatus 34, each main body is
installed corresponding to the screen of the monitor with a touch
panel, the insertion port, and the scanner reading surface. A
volume adjusting part is installed corresponding to the speaker 43.
Corresponding to the coin insertion port 44, the coin return lever
45, the bill insertion port 46, and the change return port 47, a
coin mech (coin processing device) for identifying the coins,
storing, and returning the change, a bill bari (bill processing
device) for identifying the bills, and storing, and a safe for
storing the coins in case the coin mech is fill, are installed.
Corresponding to the receipt outlet port 48, a receipt printer is
installed. Furthermore, corresponding to the printed article outlet
port 49, and the printed article outlet port 50, a printer is
installed respectively.
[0196] Moreover, although it is not apparently recognized by the
external appearance, inside the housing of the post type image
outputting apparatus 34, a personal computer including a control
unit for controlling each device in the image outputting apparatus
34, a power source box for converting the voltage, an interruptible
power supply device for preventing breakage of the CPU, the hard
disc or the like in the control unit at the time of blackout or the
like are installed.
[0197] FIG. 6 shows a block diagram of an image printing system 1A
having the post type image outputting apparatus 34 shown in FIG. 5.
In this embodiment, the post type image outputting apparatus 34 as
the terminal part 2 comprises a control unit 52, a hard disc 53, a
CD-ROM reading device 54, a monitor 35 with a touch panel, n sets
of image data reading devices 55, n sets of shutters 56, a coin
mech 57, a bill bari 58, a receipt journal processing part 59, two
sets of printers 60, 61, and a communication control device 62,
connected via a bus 63. The event information service part 3 is a
events information distribution server which an entrepreneur other
than that of the post type image outputting apparatus manages, and
it comprises a control unit 64, a CD-ROM reading device 65, and a
communication control device 66, connected via a bus 67. The post
type image outputting apparatus 34 and event information service
part 3 each are connected to the Internet as the line 6 via their
respective communication control device 62 and 67.
[0198] The control unit 52 of the terminal part 2 (post type image
outputting apparatus 34) comprises a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM for
controlling the drive of the devices connected via the bus
according to a program stored in the hard disc 53 as a large scale
memory medium. In the hard disc 53, programs for controlling the
drive of the devices, such as a reading program corresponding to
each recording medium, an opening/closing control program for the
shutters, a fee charging program or the like, as well as an image
processing program for processing an input image, a material data
base storing information of frames to be used for the image
synthesis, or the like, are stored so as to be read out as needed
and stored in the RAM for driving various devices. The CD-ROM
reading device 54 is used for upgrading the version of programs or
any information stored in the ROM or the hard disc of the terminal
part 2 such that a CD-ROM for upgrading the version is inserted in
the CD-ROM reading device 54 for rewriting the data with the
terminal part switched to the administration mode by the
maintenance key.
[0199] In FIG. 6, by selecting and executing the touch panel
buttons displayed on the monitor 35 with a touch panel according to
the operation guidance displayed on the monitor 35 with a touch
panel of the terminal part 2, a series of the operation for reading
the image data to the output of a printed article can be executed.
In this embodiment, first, the menu of the printed article is
selected according to the operation guidance displayed on the
monitor 35 with a touch panel, and in case the touch panel button
is pressed, an operation screen for guiding the input of the image
data is shown on the monitor 35 with a touch panel.
[0200] The image data reading devices 55 include various reading
devices 1 to n corresponding to various kinds of recording media so
that the customer can input photography image data recorded in a
recording medium the customer has into the terminal part 2 using
the corresponding reading device. The image data reading devices 55
also include a scanner so that an image can be read out from a
printed article, processed to be digital data, and inputted into
the terminal part 2. In case the image data reading devices 55 are
not dedicated for reading but also they can record image data in a
recording medium, the customer can store the image data of the
edited image produced by operating the terminal part 2 and take it
home with the customer. The shutters 56 are provided at the
recording medium insertion ports of the reading devices 1 to n so
that the taking out operation of the recording medium can be
prohibited during the reading process, or until the fee charging
process is completed by port or closing the recording medium
insertion port.
[0201] When the images provided by the customer are inputted as
digital data using the image data reading devices 55 according to
the operation guidance on the monitor 35 with a touch panel the
inputted original image is shown on the monitor 35 so that an image
to be printed can be selected according to the operation guidance
of the monitor 35 with a touch panel. At the time, it is
convenience to show the all images as a thumb nail image or the
like, and select an image by the touch panel method.
[0202] When an original image is selected, an image processing
program is executed according to a printing menu already selected.
The customer can process the image, such as reduction, enlargement,
rotation, deformation, synthesis with another image or the like
according to the operation guidance on the monitor 35 with a touch
panel. At the time, image materials stored in the material data
base, such as picture frames can be utilized as well.
[0203] When the menu of adding events information to an original
image is chosen from a print menu or an edit menu, the terminal
part 2 accesses the events information service part 3 after
selection of an original image. The control part 64 of the events
information service part 3 (events information distribution server)
comprises a CPU, a ROM, and RAM, accepts the demand of the terminal
part 2, and it searches, extracts and selects the event information
from the event information database in a hard disk according to the
demand from the terminal part 2, and distributes the data of event
information to the terminal part 2. The event information database,
the event information retrieval program, the event information
selection program, the fee collection program, etc. are stored in
the hard disk 65, so as to be read out as needed and stored in the
RAM for executing the retrieval program, the event information
selection program, the fee collection program, etc.
[0204] The event information service part 3 when accessed from the
terminal part 2, first, a retrieval program will be started, and it
requires to the terminal part 2 to input a datum for the event
occurrence time and optionally data for other retrieval conditions
corresponding to other retrieval items. The customer can input such
retrieval conditions relevant to an original image, such as time
and a genre, into the events information service part 32 according
to the guidance screen displayed in the monitor 35 with touch panel
of the terminal part 2. As an input method of retrieval conditions,
first, the photographed day appended to the original image is
displayed to a guidance screen of the monitor 35 with touch panel,
for example, so as to ask the customer to confirm the displayed
photographed day is correct as image related time. The customer can
input another time as retrieval condition for the generating time
of event information when the displayed photographed day is wrong
or when he wishes to use a time other than the photographed day as
the image related time. After the input of image related time is
completed, next, the categories which can search the events
information are displayed on the monitor 35 with touch panel 35 as
a guidance screen. Each genre, such as an entertainments field and
a political economy field, can be included in the guidance screen,
and the item of a non genre can also be prepared in it.
[0205] CPU of the event information service part 3 searches through
a event information database according to the input retrieval
conditions, and extracts the event information with which it is the
event generated at the time near the time relevant to an original
image, and other retrieval conditions, such as a specification
genre, are filled. Since the extracted event information is
displayed on the monitor 35 of the terminal part 2, the customer
can check the retrieval result. When there are much hit number of
cases of retrieval, the event information selection program is
started, all or a part of hit event information are displayed on
the monitor 35 of the terminal part 2 according to a predetermined
priority, and the event information service part 3 makes the
customer choose any favorite event information. Thus, the event
information which is searched and extracted and optionally selected
is transmitted to the terminal part 2.
[0206] In the event information service part 3, the fee collection
program is performed in parallel with the retrieval program or the
event information selection program, during a period of from the
time when the service part 3 is accessed from the terminal part 2
to the time when the service part 3 transmits the event information
to the terminal part 2, in order to summarize the total of fee for
access to the events information service part 3, fee for retrieval,
and fee for use of the event information, and then to transmit the
result of total fee to the terminal part 2 along with the event
information data.
[0207] The terminal part 2 will synthesize an original image and
events information according to the image processing program stored
in the hard disk, when it receives the data of event information.
Further, when the customer directs any edit direction other than
the synthesizing with the event information, for example,
synthesizing with a frame, expansion or reduction, movement, etc,
such processing for the image is performed according to those
directions.
[0208] After completion of the edit of the image, according to the
operation guidance on the monitor 35 with touch panel, the order
content other than the printing menu and the process content, such
as the number of prints, the print size or the like, is inputted.
Also at this time, the order content can be input by pressing a
button or ten keys displayed on the touch panel. In case a printing
menu not requiring the edit of the original image is selected at
the time of the start, the operation screen for guiding the edit
operation is eliminated so that the operation guidance for guiding
the other order content is displayed immediately.
[0209] After all the order content is inputted, on monitor 35 with
the touch panel, the screen for the charged fee is displayed
together with the order content and the fee payment is requested.
The charge of access to the event information service part, the
charge of retrieval, and the rental fee of event information may be
contained in the claim items of payment. When a coin is inserted
and/or a bill is inserted to the main body 1 according to the
payment request, the coin mech 57 and/or the bill bari 58 are
driven so as to execute the fee charging process such as judgment
of genuineness of the coin or bill inserted to the terminal part 2
for the fee payment, the judgment of the kind thereof, the amount
calculation, the discharge of the change or the like. After
finishing the fee charging process, the receipt journal part 59
prints the printing menu, the collected fee amount or the like on a
receipt paper and discharges the receipt. The system can be set so
as to eliminate the drive of the fee charging means in case request
of the fee payment is not needed.
[0210] After the discharge of the receipt, the shutter is opened so
as to enable taking out of the inserted recording medium so that
the operation screen for guiding the take-out of the recording
medium is displayed on the monitor 35. When the recording medium is
taken out, a printed article is output by the printer 60 or 61. The
printer 60 can output a standard size printed article with a
standard image quality, and the printer 61 can output a pre-cut
seal printed article.
[0211] Next, the motion of the image printing system of the present
invention will be explained with reference to a flow chart and the
indication on the monitor with a touch panel, as the image printing
system 1A shown in FIG. 1.
[0212] In the embodiment of the image printing system 1A according
to the present invention, a start screen as shown in FIG. 8 is
displayed on the screen of the monitor 35 with a touch panel in the
terminal part 2. In case an optional position of the start screen
is touched by a hand, a main menu screen as shown in FIG. 9 is
indicated. In case the main menu screen is left for a predetermined
time, it returns to the start screen. In the main menu screen, the
kinds of the printed articles to be selected are shown.
Specifically, touch panel buttons for the "digital photo", the
"photo edit", the "index print", the "seal", the "certification
photograph", and the "postcard print" are shown in the upper and
lower two rows. In the main menu screen, if "photo edit" is chosen,
the printed article of the image plus event information can be
created.
[0213] In case the "digital photo" is selected in the main menu
screen and the touch panel button thereof is touched, a print out
can be provided by reading the image data from a smart medium, a PC
card, a compact flash card, a CD-ROM, or a flexible disc (FD), or
reading the image data from a printed article such as a photograph
using a scanner.
[0214] In case the "photo edit" is selected, a print out can be
provided by reading the image data from a smart medium, a PC card,
a compact flash card, a CD-ROM, or a flexible disc (FD), or reading
the image data from a printed article such as a photograph using a
scanner, and synthesizing the read out image with a frame or an
event information, and further processing such as expansion or
reduction of image, etc.
[0215] In case the "index print" is selected, an index print with a
thumb nail image displayed can be printed out by reading the image
data from a smart medium, a PC card, a compact flash card, a
CD-ROM, or a flexible disc (FD).
[0216] In case the "seal" is selected, a pre-cut seal can be
printed out by reading the image data from a smart medium, a PC
card, a compact flash card, a CD-ROM, or a flexible disc (FD), or
reading the image data from a printed article such as a photograph
using a scanner, and synthesizing the read out image and a frame
prepared by the system side. In the pre-cut seal, a plurality of
small screens (frames) of the same image are printed, with each
small screen divided by half cut.
[0217] In case the "certification photograph" is selected, an image
for the certification photograph is taken by a digital camera in
the store so as to be stored in a flexible disc, and then, the
stored image data are read out by the main body so that they can be
printed out after selecting the size from the driver's license
size, the curriculum vitae size, the passport size, and the visa
size, and selecting color or monochrome.
[0218] In case the "post card print" is selected, a print can be
provided by reading the image data from a smart medium, a CF card,
a flexible disc (FD), a PC card, or a CD-ROM, or reading the image
data from a printed article such as a photograph using a scanner,
producing the postcard data by processing the read out image, and
reading the postcard data from the recording medium storing the
same.
[0219] As described above, since the printed article of the image
plus event information can be created and printed only when "photo
edit" is chosen, hereinafter, only the procedure of "photograph
edit" will be explained.
[0220] In the main menu screen, if the "photo edit" position is
touched by a hand, the "photo edit" procedure shown in FIG. 7 is
started. In each operation screen to be indicated after the start
of the "photo edit" procedure, in principle, a "cancel" button and
a "return to the previous screen" button are provided so that it
can return to the start screen by pressing the "cancel" button, and
it can return to the operation screen of the previous step by
pressing the "return to the previous screen" button so as to enable
change of the operation.
[0221] In case the "photo edit" procedure is started, as shown in
FIG. 10, the guidance screen which displays a sub menu appears, and
"frame synthesis" or "news synthesis" can be chosen (S101). In the
guidance screen at this time, the message of "please touch a button
and choose" is laterally written in the uppermost row, and
therebelow, the button of "frame synthesis" and the button of "news
synthesis" are arranged as above and below, and in the lowermost
row, the "cancel" button and the "return to the previous screen"
button are provided
[0222] In the procedure of "frame synthesis", the datum of original
image, such as a photograph, is read from a recording media or a
printed article, and it can synthesize with the frame image
currently prepared for the system side, and then the synthesized
image can print out. On the other hand, in the procedure of "news
synthesis", the original image can be synthesized with a event
information. That is, while reading the data of original image,
such as a photograph, from a recording media or a printed article,
the event information which shows event such as a famous occurrence
is obtained by accessing the event information service part 3 from
the terminal part 2, and searching any event generated at the time
near the photographed day of an original image and extracting it,
in order to synthesize the original image with the events
information.
[0223] In the guidance screen of sub menu shown in FIG. 10, if the
"frame synthesis" is selected (S100), the procedure shown in FIG.
38 is started. In case the "frame synthesis" procedure is started,
as shown in FIG. 39, an operation screen with the picture frames
shown is indicated so that a frame can be selected (S118). In the
operation screen at the time, the message "please select the frame
design as you like" is shown laterally in the uppermost row, and
below the message, frame designs are shown. In the lowermost row,
the "cancel" button, the "return to the previous screen" button,
the "enlarged display" button, and the "determination" button are
provided. The frame designs are provided from the material data
base stored in the hard disc of the terminal part so as to be
indicated on the screen.
[0224] In case the enlarged display button is touched after
touching one of a frame displayed on the screen, as shown in FIG.
40, the enlarged image of the selected frame is shown. In the
operation screen at the time, the message "if it is okay, please
press the confirmation button" is shown laterally in the uppermost
row, and below the message, the enlarged frame design is shown. In
the lowermost row, the "confirmation button" is provided together
with the "cancel" button, and the "return to the previous screen"
button. In case the customer does not like the enlarged frame, by
touching the return to the previous screen button, the screen with
the frames listed can be shown so that another frame can be
selected.
[0225] In case the determination button is touched immediately
after selecting the frame in the screen of FIG. 39, or in case the
confirmation button is touched after indicating the enlarged image
in the screen of FIG. 40, the frame to be used is set.
[0226] In case the frame is set, as shown in FIG. 13, the operation
screen for selecting the reading source appears (S302). In the
operation screen, in case a touch panel button is touched by a
hand, the corresponding reading source is selected.
[0227] As shown in FIG. 40, when the frame of a calendar is chosen,
a guidance screen as shown in FIG. 41 appears after decision of the
frame. In the guidance screen at this time, the message of "please
touch in order of date mark" is laterally written in the uppermost
row, and therebelow, an expansion indication of the date column of
a calendar is given at one side of the screen, the icons of marks
to other one side are enumerated, and "cancel" button, the "redo"
button, and "determination" button are prepared in the lowermost
row.
[0228] The customer can give a favorite mark to the position of a
specific date by touching on a favorite mark, after touching the
position of the specific date. The customer can display the icon
(mark) of a birthday cake on the date of his birthday, and can
create the calendar which added addition information about the
specific date. When selection of a date or a mark is mistaken,
marking can be redone by touching the redo button. After giving a
mark to the date, the marking of the date is completed by touching
a determination button.
[0229] If the indication of the date on a calendar and the
indication of the icon are piled up, visibility and design nature
may become bad. Then, in the portion with which the indications of
the date and the icon overlap, it is desirable by displaying in
white one of indications, or performing image processing of
bordering with white, black, or other arbitrary colors to make both
indications look clear.
[0230] When the customer does not want to do marking of the date,
the marking of the date can be omitted by touching a determination
button, without performing selection of the date or a mark in the
guidance screen of FIG. 41. Moreover, it is possible to set up the
option which prints independently the calendar which is chosen and
optionally attached the date as it is, without synthesizing with an
original image.
[0231] After completion of the frame choice by the above operation,
and particularly in case of the calendar frame, the completion of
the optional marking of the date, the guidance screen which
enumerates various reading sources for image datum is displayed as
shown in FIG. 11, so that a reading source can be selected (S119).
In the operation screen at the time, the message "please select the
medium for input from those shown below" is shown laterally in the
uppermost row, and therebelow, the touch panel buttons each with
the name of the smart medium, the compact flash card (CF card), the
flexible disc, the PC card, the CD-ROM, and the photograph
(scanner) are shown. In the operation screen, in case a touch panel
button is touched by a hand, the corresponding reading source is
selected.
[0232] If any of the reading sources is selected from the smart
medium, the CF card, the flexible disc, the PC card, and the
CD-ROM, the operation screen showing the inserting method
corresponding to the selected recording medium is indicated so that
the recording medium can be inserted.
[0233] In the operation screen in case the smart medium is
selected, as shown in FIG. 12, the message "please set the smart
medium and press the reading start" is shown laterally in the
uppermost row, and a "reading start" button is provided in the
lowermost row together with the "cancel" button and the "return to
the previous screen" button. Similarly, in case the CF card is
selected, the operation screen shown in FIG. 13 appears. In case
the flexible disc is selected, the operation screen shown in FIG.
14 appears. In case the PC card is selected, the operation screen
shown in FIG. 15 appears. And in case the CD-ROM is selected, the
operation screen shown in FIG. 16 appears.
[0234] In case a recording medium is inserted in the predetermined
insertion port according to the guidance of the operation screen
and the reading start button on the touch panel is touched by a
hand, the insertion port with the recording medium inserted is
closed by the shutter so as to start the reading operation of the
image data (S120).
[0235] As shown in FIG. 17, the operation screen with the thumb
nail images of the total read out images shown appears (S121) after
the reading operation is completed. In the operation screen at the
time, the message "please select the image to be printed, and input
the number of prints" is shown laterally in the uppermost row, and
therebelow, total 6 thumb nail images are shown in the two rows
laterally, with the column for inputting the number of prints
provided to each thumb nail image.
[0236] In case the number of the thumb nail images so large than
they cannot be shown on one screen, all the thumb nail images are
shown, divided in a plurality of pages. The page number currently
appearing on the screen and triangular scroll buttons for moving
forward or backward among the pages are displayed on the screen in
the same row as the buttons for increasing or reducing the number
of prints. Moreover, in the lowermost row of the operation screen
at the time, a "determination" button is provided together with the
"cancel" button and the "return to the previous stage" button. By
selecting the images to be printed in the operation screen, and
pressing the determination button, the image to be edited is
specified (S122).
[0237] In the "photo edit" procedure, it is also possible to select
the "photograph (scanner)" as the reading source so that the image
data are read out from a printed article such as a photograph using
a scanner (S123 to S124). In the operation screen shown in FIG. 11,
in case the "photograph (scanner)" is selected as the reading
source, as shown in FIG. 18, the operation screen for selecting the
reading size appears (S123).
[0238] In the operation screen at the time, the message "please
select the reading size" is shown laterally in the uppermost row,
and therebelow a button for selecting the photograph size and a
button for selecting the A5 size are provided. In case the
photograph size is selected, a manuscript of a size within the
ordinary photograph size of vertically 89 mm.times.laterally 127 mm
can be read. In case the A5 size is selected, a manuscript of a
size over the ordinary photograph size up to vertically 148.5
mm.times.laterally 210 mm can be read.
[0239] In case the button for the photograph size or A5 size is
touched, the corresponding reading size is selected so that the
operation screen for reading the manuscript by a scanner appears as
shown in FIG. 19. In the operation screen at the time, the message
"please set the manuscript on the scanner and press the reading
start" is shown laterally in the uppermost row, and the "reading
start" button is provided in the lowermost row together with the
"cancel" button and the "return to the previous screen" button.
[0240] In case the manuscript is set on the scanner and the reading
start button is touched according to the operation screen shown in
FIG. 19, the manuscript is scanned and read so as to obtain the
image data (S124).
[0241] When the original image to be edited is specified by the
procedure S122 or S124, as shown in FIG. 42, a guide screen is
appeared with displaying the image which is synthesized from the
selected original image and frame (S125) so as to be able to adjust
the synthesized image (S126). In the guide screen at the time, the
message "please adjust the position and the size of the photograph
so as to fit the design" is shown laterally in the uppermost row,
and below the message on the half side, the synthesized image is
displayed, and on the other half side, operation panels for the
enlargement/reduction, and the movement are disposed in two rows
vertically. In the lowermost row, the "cancel" button, the "return
to the previous screen" button, the "return to the original"
button, and the "confirmation" button are provided.
[0242] In the enlargement/reduction panel, a scale-up button and a
scale-down button are provided so that the size of the read out
image can be changed by touching these buttons. In the movement
panel, movement buttons for upward, downward, leftward and
rightward are provided so that the position of the image can be
adjusted by touching these buttons. In case the return to the
original button is pressed, it returns to the original image size
and the position. In case the confirmation button is touched after
finishing the image adjustment, the image adjustment is
completed.
[0243] In case the image adjustment is completed, as shown in FIG.
27, the operation screen for setting the number of prints for the
image appears (S127). In the operation screen at the time, the
message "please set the number of order" is shown laterally in the
uppermost row, and below the message, a column for inputting the
number of order and input buttons for increasing or reducing the
number of order are provided. In the lowermost row, the "cancel"
button, the "return to the previous screen" button, and the
"determination" button are provided. The input buttons include a
number increase button of an upward triangle, and a number
reduction button of a downward triangle. By touching these, the
number of order can be increased or reduced. By touching the
determination button after finishing the input operation, the order
content including the number of order can be set.
[0244] When the order content is set, as shown in FIG. 43, the
guidance screen for charging the fee appears for executing the fee
charging process (S128). In the guidance screen for the fee
charging process, the message "please insert money" is shown
laterally in the uppermost row, and therebelow, the number of
order, the fee for one sheet (unit price), the total amount (sum of
the charged amount), and the inserted fee (inserted amount) are
shown laterally from above successively in four rows. When the
amount inserted in the coin insertion port and/or the bill
insertion port according to the explanation on the guidance screen
reaches or exceeds the total charged amount, in case it is a mode
for only confirming the total amount, the change is discharged from
the change discharging port as needed, and the guidance screen for
requesting the fee charge content appears as shown in FIG. 44. In
the guidance screen at the time, the message "if it is okay, please
press the confirmation button" is shown laterally in the uppermost
row, and therebelow, the number of order, the fee for one sheet,
and the total amount are shown laterally from above successively in
three rows. In the lowermost row, the "confirmation" button is
provided together with the "cancel" button and the "return to the
previous screen" button. In the guidance screen, in case the
confirmation button is touched, the fee charging process is
completed so as to move to the next step.
[0245] When the fee charging process is completed, the fee receipt
is published so as to be discharged from the receipt outlet port
(S129). After producing the receipt, the operation screen for
removing the recording medium or the manuscript, which is the
reading source of the image data, appears, and furthermore, in case
the recording medium is inserted in the reading machine, the
shutter of the insertion port is opened (S130). As shown in FIG.
30, in the operation screen in case the smart medium is inserted,
the message "please remove the smart medium and press the printing
start" is shown laterally, and the "printing start" button is
provided in the lowermost row. Similarly, in case the CF card is
inserted, the operation screen as shown in FIG. 31 appears. In case
the flexible disc is inserted, the operation screen as shown in
FIG. 32 appears. In case the PC card is inserted, the operation
screen as shown in FIG. 33 appears. And in case the CD-ROM is
inserted, the operation screen as shown in FIG. 34 appears.
[0246] Moreover, in the operation screen in case the printed
article such as a photograph is read out by the scanner, as shown
in FIG. 35, the message "please remove the manuscript from the
scanner and press the printing start" is shown laterally in the
uppermost row, and the "printing start" button is provided in the
lowermost row.
[0247] In case the recording medium inserted in the reading machine
or the manuscript placed on the glass surface of the scanner is
removed and the printing start button is touched according to the
guidance on the operation screen, the printing is started by the
printer installed in the terminal part (S131). During the printing
process, the guidance screen as shown in FIG. 36 appears. In the
guidance screen at the time, the message "now printing" is shown
laterally in the uppermost row, therebelow, the image being printed
is shown, and below the image, a time line roughly indicating the
proceeding state of the printing process is lit. When the printing
process is finished, the printed article is discharged from the
printed article outlet port (standard printing) of the main body,
and the finish screen as shown in FIG. 37 appears. The finish
screen in the meantime returns to the start screen.
[0248] On the other hand, in the guidance screen of sub menu shown
in FIG. 10, if the "news synthesis" is selected (S101), the
procedure shown in FIG. 7 is started. In case the "news synthesis"
procedure is started, first, the guidance screen which enumerates
various reading sources for image datum is displayed as shown in
FIG. 11, so that a reading source can be selected (S102). In the
operation screen at the time, the message "please select the medium
for input from those shown below" is shown laterally in the
uppermost row, and therebelow, the touch panel buttons each with
the name of the smart medium, the compact flash card (CF card) the
flexible disc, the PC card, the CD-ROM, and the photograph
(scanner) are shown. In the operation screen, in case a touch panel
button is touched by a hand, the corresponding reading source is
selected.
[0249] If any of the reading sources is selected from the smart
medium, the CF card, the flexible disc, the PC card, and the
CD-ROM, the operation screen showing the inserting method
corresponding to the selected recording medium is indicated so that
the recording medium can be inserted.
[0250] In the operation screen in case the smart medium is
selected, as shown in FIG. 12, the message "please set the smart
medium and press the reading start" is shown laterally in the
uppermost row, and a "reading start" button is provided in the
lowermost row together with the "cancel" button and the "return to
the previous screen" button. Similarly, in case the CF card is
selected, the operation screen shown in FIG. 13 appears. In case
the flexible disc is selected, the operation screen shown in FIG.
14 appears. In case the PC card is selected, the operation screen
shown in FIG. 15 appears. And in case the CD-ROM is selected, the
operation screen shown in FIG. 16 appears.
[0251] In case a recording medium is inserted in the predetermined
insertion port according to the guidance of the operation screen
and the reading start button on the touch panel is touched by a
hand, the insertion port with the recording medium inserted is
closed by the shutter so as to start the reading operation of the
image data (S103).
[0252] As shown in FIG. 17, the operation screen with the thumb
nail images of the total read out images shown appears (S104) after
the reading operation is completed. In the operation screen at the
time, the message "please select the image to be printed, and input
the number of prints" is shown laterally in the uppermost row, and
therebelow, total 6 thumb nail images are shown in the two rows
laterally, with the column for inputting the number of prints
provided to each thumb nail image.
[0253] In case the number of the thumb nail images so large than
they cannot be shown on one screen, all the thumb nail images are
shown, divided in a plurality of pages. The page number currently
appearing on the screen and triangular scroll buttons for moving
forward or backward among the pages are displayed on the screen in
the same row as the buttons for increasing or reducing the number
of prints. Moreover, in the lowermost row of the operation screen
at the time, a "determination" button is provided together with the
"cancel" button and the "return to the previous stage" button. By
selecting the images to be printed in the operation screen, and
pressing the determination button, the image to be edited is
specified.
[0254] In the "photo edit" procedure, it is also possible to select
the "photograph (scanner)" as the reading source so that the image
data are read out from a printed article such as a photograph using
a scanner (S106 to S107). In the operation screen shown in FIG. 11,
in case the "photograph (scanner)" is selected as the reading
source, as shown in FIG. 18, the operation screen for selecting the
reading size appears (S106). In the operation screen at the time,
the message "please select the reading size" is shown laterally in
the uppermost row, and therebelow a button for selecting the
photograph size and a button for selecting the A5 size are
provided. In case the photograph size is selected, a manuscript of
a size within the ordinary photograph size of vertically 89
mm.times.laterally 127 mm can be read. In case the A5 size is
selected, a manuscript of a size over the ordinary photograph size
up to vertically 148.5 mm.times.laterally 210 mm can be read.
[0255] In case the button for the photograph size or A5 size is
touched, the corresponding reading size is selected so that the
operation screen for reading the manuscript by a scanner appears as
shown in FIG. 19. In the operation screen at the time, the message
"please set the manuscript on the scanner and press the reading
start" is shown laterally in the uppermost row, and the "reading
start" button is provided in the lowermost row together with the
"cancel" button and the "return to the previous screen" button.
[0256] In case the manuscript is set on the scanner and the reading
start button is touched according to the operation screen shown in
FIG. 19, the manuscript is scanned and read so as to obtain the
image data (S107).
[0257] When the original image to be edited is specified, as shown
in FIG. 20, while displaying the original image to be edited, the
guidance screen which advises to be careful of being charged
separately once starting the retrieval of the event information and
the expense of the retrieval is charged even if the printing
procedure is interrupted on the way (S108). In the guidance screen
at this time, an original image is displayed on one side, and on
other one side, the message of "if news retrieval is performed,
even if you stop the print on the way, the charge of access,
retrieval, and data rental will run. Is it all right?" is
displayed, and the "cancel" button, the "return to the previous
screen" button, the "yes" button and the "no" button are provided
in the lowermost row.
[0258] If the "yes" button is touched in this guidance screen, it
will mean that consent for starting retrieval is obtained and by
starting retrieval and an access to the events information service
part 3 will be started (S109). If "no" is chosen in this guidance
screen, the guidance screen (not shown) which checks whether the
system changes to another print menu or it cancels will appear, and
it will show a user to the menu of a wish.
[0259] If the terminal part 2 accesses the events information
service part 3, the guidance screen into which the customer is made
to input retrieval conditions will appear (S110). As retrieval
conditions, the guidance screen which is for inputting or
confirming the photographed day as the image related time appears
first. Basically as shown in FIG. 21, in the guidance screen, the
message of "please input the photographed day" is shown laterally
in the uppermost row, and therebelow, the input column and the ten
key are provided, and the "cancel" button, the "return to the
previous screen" button, and "determination" button are provided in
the lowermost row. When the datum of a photographed day is appended
to the image datum of the recording media as reading source, as
shown in FIG. 22, the guidance screen will be appeared, wherein the
message of "Is the displayed photographed day all right? When
wrong, please correct it" is laterally shown in the uppermost row,
while displaying the data of the photographed day read in recording
media to the lower side, and providing with the ten key used for
correction. In the lowermost row, the "cancel" button, the button
"return to the previous screen", and "determination" button are
also provided.
[0260] If on the guidance screens, a photographed day is input or
corrected and a determination button is touched, a photographed day
will be decided, and then, as shown in FIG. 23, the screen which
chooses the genre of events information appears. In the guidance
screen at this time, the message of "please choose the genre of
news" is shown laterally to the uppermost row, and therebelow, the
choices of "entertainments news", "sports", "science", "political
economy", and "non genre" are displayed, and the "cancel" button,
the "return to the previous screen" button, and "determination"
button are provided in the lowermost row. If the button of the
genre of a wish is touched in this guidance screen and
"determination" button is touched, a genre will be decided and the
input of retrieval conditions will be completed (S110).
[0261] Once the input of retrieval conditions is completed, the
retrieval of events information will be started automatically, and
as shown in FIG. 24, the hit event information is shown in a
guidance screen (S111). In the guidance screen at this time, the
original image is displayed on one side, only two or more event
information of a higher rank among the hit event information
according to a predetermined priority are displayed with a message
of "choose one favorite news". The "cancel" button, the button
"return to the previous screen", and "determination" button are
provided in the lowermost row. Each event information displayed
preferentially consists of a generating date of the event, brief
explanation of the contents, and a photograph. If only one event
information to be synthesized with the original image is chosen in
this guidance screen and a determination button is touched, the
event information will be decided (S111).
[0262] If event information is decided, synthesizing of the images
will be started, and the guidance screen which chooses a layout as
shown in FIG. 25 appears (S112). The message of "please choose a
layout" is laterally shown in the uppermost row in the guidance
screen at this time, and therebelow, the choices of layout are
enumerated, and the "cancel" button, the "return to the previous
screen" button, and "determination" button are provided in the
lowermost row. If a layout is chosen in this guidance screen and a
determination button is touched, a image will be synthesized, as
shown in FIG. 26, the image plus event information is indicated by
expansion, and the guidance screen to check appears (S112). In the
guidance screen at this time, the message of "News synthesizing is
completed. Is it all right?" is shown laterally in the uppermost
row, and therebelow, the image which gave a photographed day and
events information to the bottom at the original image is
displayed, and the "cancel" button, the "return to the previous
screen" button, and the "determination" button are provided in the
lowermost row.
[0263] If the "to return to a before screen" button is touched in
this guidance screen, a layout can be redone, and if the
"determination" button is touched, as shown in FIG. 27, the
guidance screen which sets up print number of sheets will appear
(S113). In the guidance screen at this time, the message of "please
set the number of order" is shown laterally in the uppermost row,
and below the message, a column for inputting the number of order
and input buttons for increasing or reducing the number of order
are provided. In the lowermost row, the "cancel" button, the
"return to the previous screen" button, and the "determination"
button are provided. The input buttons include a number increase
button of an upward triangle, and a number reduction button of a
downward triangle. By touching these, the number of order can be
increased or reduced. By touching the determination button after
finishing the input operation, the order content including the
number of order can be set (S113).
[0264] When the order content is set, as shown in FIG. 28, the
guidance screen for charging the fee appears for executing the fee
charging process (S114). In the guidance screen for the fee
charging process, the message "please insert money" is shown
laterally in the uppermost row, and therebelow, the number of
order, the fee for one sheet (unit price), the fee for news (the
fee for access to the event information, fee for retrieval, and fee
for rental of event information), the total amount (sum of the
charged amount), and the inserted fee (inserted amount) are shown
laterally from above successively in fifth rows. When the amount
inserted in the coin insertion port and/or the bill insertion port
according to the explanation on the guidance screen reaches or
exceeds the total charged amount, in case it is a mode for only
confirming the total amount, the change is discharged from the
change discharging port as needed, and the guidance screen for
requesting the fee charge content appears as shown in FIG. 29. In
the guidance screen at the time, the message "if it is okay, please
press the confirmation button" is shown laterally in the uppermost
row, and therebelow, the number of order, the fee for one sheet,
and the total amount are shown laterally from above successively in
three rows. In the lowermost row, the "confirmation" button is
provided together with the "cancel" button and the "return to the
previous screen" button. In the guidance screen, in case the
confirmation button is touched, the fee charging process is
completed so as to move to the next step.
[0265] When the fee charging process is completed, the fee receipt
is published so as to be discharged from the receipt outlet port
(S115). After producing the receipt, the operation screen for
removing the recording medium or the manuscript, which is the
reading source of the image data, appears, and furthermore, in case
the recording medium is inserted in the reading machine, the
shutter of the insertion port is opened (S116). As shown in FIG.
30, in the operation screen in case the smart medium is inserted,
the message "please remove the smart medium and press the printing
start" is shown laterally, and the "printing start" button is
provided in the lowermost row. Similarly, in case the CF card is
inserted, the operation screen as shown in FIG. 31 appears. In case
the flexible disc is inserted, the operation screen as shown in
FIG. 32 appears. In case the PC card is inserted, the operation
screen as shown in FIG. 33 appears. And in case the CD-ROM is
inserted, the operation screen as shown in FIG. 34 appears.
[0266] Moreover, in the operation screen in case the printed
article such as a photograph is read out by the scanner, as shown
in FIG. 35, the message "please remove the manuscript from the
scanner and press the printing start" is shown laterally in the
uppermost row, and the "printing start" button is provided in the
lowermost row.
[0267] In case the recording medium inserted in the reading machine
or the manuscript placed on the glass surface of the scanner is
removed and the printing start button is touched according to the
guidance on the operation screen, the printing is started by the
printer installed in the terminal part (S117). During the printing
process, the guidance screen as shown in FIG. 36 appears. In the
guidance screen at the time, the message "now printing" is shown
laterally in the uppermost row, therebelow, the image being printed
is shown, and below the image, a time line roughly indicating the
proceeding state of the printing process is lit. When the printing
process is finished, the printed article is discharged from the
printed article outlet port (standard printing) of the main body,
and the finish screen as shown in FIG. 37 appears. The finish
screen in the meantime returns to the start screen.
[0268] As described above, according to the image plus event
information printing system of this invention, by using the
personal image printing system constructed with the personal
computer as an axis thereof and the image printing system involving
the commercial image printing system like the above mentioned post
type image outputting apparatus, the events information which shows
the famous occurrence which was generated at the time near the time
relevant to an image or the time concerned can be synthesized with
the original image and printed out. Thus, the printed article of
high added value can obtain easily.
[0269] Especially those that looked at the image synthesized by
searching and extracting the event information which shows the
famous occurrence generated at the same day as a photographed day
or the near time of an original image, and synthesizing with an
original image can grasp the photographed time of the original
image intuitively from the contents of events information, or can
recognize the time background at the time of original image
photography.
[0270] Moreover, when two or more events information which show the
occurrence generated at the same day as a photographed day or the
near time of an original image are searched and extracted, although
one or more events information to be added to the original image
may be decided automatically by the system side according to a
predetermined priority, the printed article of particular high
added value may be obtained by showing all of the extracted events
information or a part of the extracted event information, which
part is chosen in accordance with the predetermined priority, and
making the customer choose favorite event information freely.
[0271] Although the image plus event information printing system of
this invention may be constructed as the stand-alone type which
stored all the means in one apparatus, some apparatuses which
carried out distributed storing of each means can be connected by
the line, and particularly, the client/server type system can be
constructed by carrying out distributed storing of each means at
terminal apparatus and a server.
Dynamic Shot Printing System
[0272] First, the outline of the second aspect according to this
invention is explained with reference to FIG. 45. The dynamic shot
printing system 101 of this invention comprises at least following
means, that is:
(1) a dynamic image data procurement means for obtaining a dynamic
image data,
(2) a static image data specifying means for specifying a scene
recorded in the dynamic image data as the static image,
(3) an order inputting means for inputting orders for an image to
be output,
(4) an output content designation data producing means for
preparing an output content designation datum which records the
image to be output and appendix conditions for the image on the
basis of the obtained static image data and the input orders,
(5) a printing means which prints out an printed article of the
image in accordance with the output content designation datum.
[0273] As a dynamic image data procurement means 111, it is the
means which can receive a dynamic image data (image data which
recorded the dynamic image) from a certain source of a dynamic
image data, for example, a dynamic image data inputting means which
can be read a dynamic image data in the recording media 116, or
which photographs an actual motion and makes it digital datum and
thus obtains a dynamic image data, or a dynamic image database 117
which memorizes one or more dynamic image data, and can take out a
desired dynamic image data suitably may be cited. The dynamic image
database could be built in memory storage, such as a hard disk of a
computer, and may be equipped with the retrieval means which can
choose a favorite thing easily out of many dynamic image data.
Moreover, the dynamic image database 117 may be installed in this
printing system, and uniting with the dynamic image data
procurement means 111, or the dynamic image database 117 may be
constructed as dynamic image source independent from this printing
system.
[0274] The dynamic image data 120 received by the dynamic image
data procurement means 111 is transmitted to a static image data
specifying means 112 mentioned below, and one or more scenes which
are included in the dynamic image are specified as static image
data 121.
[0275] On the other hand, directions for selection of a print menu,
specification of the recording medium used as dynamic image source,
specification of static image datum, the existence of edit, the
contents of edit, print number of sheets, etc. are input into this
printing system 101 by the order inputting means 113, and it is
recognized as order contents 122.
[0276] The specified static image datum 121 and some of order
contents 122 are transmitted to the output content designation data
producing means 114, and the output content designation datum 123
which consists of the image datum which records the image to be
output and other conditions accompanying to the image datum is
generated. When there are no directions of edit in order contents
as image datum to be output, the static image datum 121 is
recognized as image datum 124 to be output as it is. When
directions of edit are included in order contents, according to the
concrete contents of edit, the static image datum 121 synthesizes
with materials, such as a frame, or two or more static images are
arranged on the screen of one sheet for synthesizing a preview
image, and expansion, movement, rotation, modification, or other
processings of image are performed. Thus, the image data 124 to be
output is edited. As conditions which accompany to the image data
to be output, directions for use of print number of sheets and use
of the mount for pre-cut seals etc. are included, for example.
[0277] The generated output content designation data 123 is
transmitted to the printing means 115, the print of a image is
performed here, and the printed article 119 of a shot image is
obtained.
[0278] According to this invention, a dynamic image data can be
processed easily, and since the shot image contained in a dynamic
image can be printed as it is or after performing an advanced image
processing to the selected shot image, the image printing system
and printed article both having high added value are offered.
[0279] It is desirable to establish an editing means for editing
the specified static image datum to the image to be output in the
output content designation data producing means 114 of the dynamic
image shot printing system according to this invention. Since it
not only prints the static image specified from the dynamic image
data by establishing such an editing means as it is, but it can
process static image data and a image can be edited newly, the shot
image with high added value can be printed.
[0280] According to the dynamic image shot printing system
according to this invention, by combining freely the original
dynamic image contents and/or original static image contents
brought by a user with dynamic image contents and/or static image
contents possessed by the system or originally obtainable by the
system side, a new image can be easily synthesized and easily
printed out.
[0281] For example, in the dynamic image shot printing system
according to this invention, while providing a dynamic image data
inputting means to input a dynamic image data as a dynamic image
data procurement means 111, a static image data inputting means to
input static image data can be further established. Thus, in such
constitution, the customer inputs a dynamic image data into this
printing system by the dynamic image data inputting means, and a
favorite static image datum from the dynamic image data is
specified by the static image data specifying means 112. Moreover,
in parallel to this, an image datum, such as a static image
photographed with the digital camera may be input into this
printing system by the static image data inputting means as a
second static image datum. Then, the first static image datum which
is specified from the dynamic image data and the second static
image datum are synthesized by the above mentioned editing means,
thus a new image (this is also called "shot image" by this
invention) is edited, and it can print by the printing means
115.
[0282] Alternatively, in the dynamic image shot printing system
according to this invention, while providing a dynamic image data
inputting means to input a dynamic image data as a dynamic image
data procurement means 111, the static image database which
accumulates static image data can be further provided. Thus, in
such constitution, the customer inputs dynamic image data into this
printing system by the dynamic image data inputting means, and
specifies favorite static image datum from the dynamic image data
by the static image data specifying means 112. In parallel to this,
a second static image data comes to hand from the static image
database. And the first static image data specified from the
dynamic image data and the second static image data are synthesized
by the above mentioned editing means, thus a new image is edited,
and it can print by the printing means 115.
[0283] In addition, a static image database can be built in memory
storage, such as a hard disk of a computer, and a retrieval means
may be added therein so that a favorite static image can be chosen
easily. As such a static image database, various kinds of material
databases used for frame synthesis can be exemplified. The static
image database may be formed in this printing system, or may be
formed independently from this printing system.
[0284] Furthermore, in the dynamic image shot printing system
according to this invention, while forming the dynamic image
database which accumulates a dynamic image data as a dynamic image
data procurement means 111, a static image data acquisition means
to input static image data can be further prepared. Thus, in such
constitution, the customer receives dynamic image data from the
dynamic image database, and specifies favorite static image datum
from the dynamic image data by the static image data specifying
means 112. In parallel to this, an image datum, such as a static
image photographed with the digital camera is input into this
printing system by the static image data inputting means as second
static image datum. The first static image datum which is specified
from the dynamic image data and the second static image datum are
synthesized by the above mentioned editing means, thus, a new image
is edited, and it can print by the printing means 115.
[0285] Furthermore, in the dynamic image shot printing system
according to this invention, while forming a dynamic image database
which accumulates a dynamic image data as the dynamic image data
procurement means 111, a static image database which accumulates
static image data can be further provided. Thus, in such
constitution, the customer receives a dynamic image data from the
dynamic image database, and specifies favorite static image datum
from the dynamic image data by the static image data specifying
means 112. Moreover, in parallel to this, the second static image
datum comes to hand from a static image database. And the first
static image datum which is specified from the dynamic image data
and the second static image datum are synthesized by the above
mentioned editing means, thus a new image is edited, and it can
print by the printing means 115.
[0286] Furthermore, in the dynamic image shot printing system
according to this invention, a dynamic image data inputting means
to input a dynamic image data, and the dynamic image database which
accumulates a dynamic image data can be formed both as a dynamic
image data procurement means 111. Thus, when it constitutes, a
static image datum specified from the dynamic image data input by
the dynamic image data inputting means and the second static image
datum specified from the dynamic image data which came to hand with
the dynamic image database are synthesized by the above mentioned
editing means, a new image is edited, and it can print by the
printing means 115.
[0287] An embodiment of the dynamic image shot printing system 112
belonging to this invention is shown in FIG. 46. The dynamic image
shot printing system 102 comprises at least following means, that
is:
(1) an image data-inputting means 126 to input a dynamic image
data,
(2) a static image data specifying means 112 to specify one scene
of the dynamic image currently recorded into the input dynamic
image data as image data of a static image (static image data),
(3) an order inputting means 113 to input the order contents about
the image to be output,
[0288] (4) an output content designation data producing means 114
to prepare an output content designation datum which records the
image to be output and appendix conditions for the image on the
basis of the obtained static image data and the input orders,
and
(5) a printing means which prints out an printed article of the
image in accordance with the output content designation datum.
[0289] In order to print a desired shot image using the dynamic
image shot printing system 102 of this invention, first, image data
120, i.e., the dynamic image data, which recorded the dynamic image
is input into the dynamic image shot printing system 102 by using
the image data inputting means 126. Usually, by inputting the order
contents relevant to this printing system 102 from the order
inputting means 113, the image data inputting means 126 is operated
and the dynamic image data is input. However, when the recording
medium 127 which recorded the dynamic image data is inserted in the
reader of this printing system 102, it is possible to set up so
that the image data inputting means 126 may operate automatically
to start the reading of a dynamic image data.
[0290] Although the dynamic image data to be input is the dynamic
image which is mainly took with the digital camcorder or the
digital camera, and is recorded on a certain recording media as a
digital datum, but it is not limited to thereto. For example, it
may be the dynamic image of the computer graphics created with the
personal computer, and when this printing system is equipped with
image pick-up apparatus, such as a CCD camera, as an image data
inputting means, the dynamic image datum may be a motion or
performance which are actually performed in front of this printing
system.
[0291] As the image data inputting means 126, for example, reading
machines corresponding to each recording medium, such as a compact
flash memory (CF), a smart medium, a compact disc (CD), a
magneto-optic disc (MO), a flexible disc (FD), and a PC card, a
connector to be connected with a digital camcorder, capable of
reading dynamic image data from a memory of the digital camcorder,
can be used. As the image data inputting means 111, an image
pick-up apparatuses, such as a CCD camera which can photograph a
motion or performance which are actually performed in front of this
printing system and can convert it into a digital datum may be
used. The enjoyableness of this printing system may increase when
including the image pick-up apparatus which can photograph a
dynamic image in addition to the reading apparatus of recording
media in the image data inputting means 126. It is preferable to
include a plurality of reading devices of different kinds in the
image data inputting means 126 in order to improve the
applicability of the dynamic shot printing apparatus of the present
invention. Moreover, the image data inputting means 126 may be
equipped with the function of both a dynamic image data inputting
means and a static image data inputting means. That is, an image
data inputting means enables not only to receive the input of a
dynamic image, but also to receive the input of a static image such
as the photograph image photographed by a digital camera, an
illustration created by computer graphics, and to process them like
the static image data specified from the dynamic image in the
subsequent process, and may enable it to create a printed
article.
[0292] The order contents about the image to be output are input
into this printing system 102 by using the order inputting means
113. The alternatives of order contents are prepared in advance at
the printing system side, the customer can choose freely any order
from the prepared items. It is desirable to show a customer the
order contents which can be chosen on a display means (not shown),
and to guide input operation of order contents. As a display means,
although CRT, a liquid crystal panel, etc. are used commonly, it
may be simpler one like the bulletin board which itemized the
operation method.
[0293] In the alternatives of order contents, for example, those of
specifying the image to be output, such as an option for which
scene in a dynamic image to be printed, an option for which the
specified scene (static image) should be printed as it is or should
be further processed, or an option for how the static image should
be processed, and those of appertained to the image datum when shot
image is printed, such as decisions of the print number of sheets,
print size, or using or not using a particular print like a pre-cut
seal, etc., may be included.
[0294] Order contents may be input at any time according to advance
of operation after starting operation of this printing system until
print-out is completed. For example, since the indication about the
printing the read image as it is, or after processing, and the
indication about the particular printing such as pre-cut seal,
etc., would belong to the alternatives in the main menu, they would
be input at the time of starting of this printing system operation.
The determination of which scene in a dynamic image to print would
be input after reading a dynamic image data into this printing
system. The direction of how to process the specified static image
data would be input after specifying static image data. Further,
the setting of print number of sheet would be input after
processing of static image data and the image datum to be output is
produced or after the static image datum itself is recognized as
the datum to be output. Therefore, the order inputting means 113 is
performed at any time if needed in the operation process of this
printing system.
[0295] As the order content inputting device 113, for example,
various kinds of pointers such as a touch panel provided integrally
with a display device such as a CRT, and a liquid crystal panel, a
keyboard, a mouse, and a track ball, can be used. Moreover, the
DPOF function (digital print order format) provided in a digital
camera can be used as well.
[0296] When a dynamic image data 120 is input, the static image
data specifying means 112 is performed in this printing system 102,
and the static image datum 121 which records the image used as a
shot image to be output or to be used as its material is specified
from of the countless scene included in a dynamic image. The static
image data specifying means 112 is operated by inputting any
required directions from the order inputting means 113. The static
image data specifying means 112 is equipped with the dynamic image
viewing means 128 for reproducing a dynamic image normally to
display the contents on a dynamic image display part (not shown),
and the static image selection means 129 which can choose any
desirable scene arbitrarily while checking the contents of a
dynamic image with the dynamic image viewing means 128. In
addition, when there is no reference especially in this description
and claims, reproduction of a dynamic image should be understood as
a concept also including reverse reproduction (reproduction with
rewinding).
[0297] The dynamic image viewing means 128 may be provided with a
playback speed control means 128a which can change playback speed
into a slow motion or frame-by-frame advance to arbitrary timing
during reproduction of a dynamic image. A best shot can be easily
chosen by reducing the playback speed of a dynamic image by the
playback speed control means when the dynamic image reaches a
little before the best shot, and pushing the selection button as a
static image selection means 129 when the image of a best shot is
displayed on a dynamic image display part. It is further desirable
that the playback speed control means further has a fast-forward
and/or fast-rewind functions since the reproduction time of an
unnecessary portion can be omitted or shortened.
[0298] Moreover, the dynamic image viewing means 128 may be
provided with a photographic playback producing means 128b which
can change the dynamic image under reproduction into photographic
playback at a choice timing. When the button as photographic
playback producing means 128b is pushed at the arbitrary times
while reproducing the dynamic image, the dynamic image stops at the
time when the button is pushed, and a photographic playback is
displayed by package at the dynamic image display part (not shown).
The photographic playback includes a series of picture frames
within a predetermined time range or of a predetermined number of
frames which starting point, middle point, or end point is based on
the time when the button is pushed. Each picture frame of the
photographic playback displayed at the dynamic image display part
serves as a touch panel, and after the customer touches and
specifies a position to be desired, by pushing the button as a
static image selection means 129, a best shot can be chosen
easily.
[0299] Moreover, the dynamic image viewing means 128 may be
provided with an pausing means 128c which can stop the dynamic
image under reproduction to arbitrary timing. If the button as
pausing means 128c was pushed when a best shot was displayed on the
dynamic image display part (not shown), a dynamic image stops at
the time when the button is pushed, and a best shot is fixed. Thus,
a best shot can be easily chosen by pushing the selection button as
a static image selection means 129 in the state.
[0300] Static image data can be more easily chosen now by combining
any two or all of playback speed control means 128a photographic
playback producing means 128b, and the pausing means 128c. The case
where playback speed control means 128a and pausing means 128c are
combined is especially preferable, since a best shot can be
particularly easily chosen by reducing the playback speed of a
dynamic image by the playback speed control means 128a when the
dynamic image reaches a little before the best shot, and then the
best shot was hold by pushing the pausing means 128c so as to pause
the replay of a dynamic image, and the hold best shot is fixed by
pushing the selection button as a static image selection means
129.
[0301] In addition, when the timing which operates the static image
selection means 129 shifts, it is possible to redo any number of
times and the static image data of a best shot is able to be chosen
until it canceled the static image data chosen accidentally and
went satisfactorily, it can specify as static image data which
should be delivered to a output content designation data producing
means to mentioned below. In this case, after rewinding a dynamic
image to a suitable scene, the same operation as the above may be
repeated, or reverse reproduction, an reverse slow motion, or
frame-by-frame back is performed, and a best shot may be displayed,
optionally by making it stop by the pausing means, and it can be
chosen.
[0302] As for the static image data specifying means 112, it is
desirable to have further the static image data accumulation means
130 which can accumulate two or more static image data. When the
static image data specifying means 112 is equipped with the static
image data accumulation means 130, the candidate of the static
image to be output as the shot image, or used as its material can
be chosen one after another, it accumulates temporarily, and after
that, each candidate is fully compared and, finally the most
desirable static image datum can be specified. Moreover, the
package print of the shot image of two or more scenes can also be
carried out in one procedure by accumulating two or more static
image data in the static image data accumulation means 130, and
processing whole accumulated data in parallel at the editing means
and the printing means mentioned below. Moreover, it can arrange on
one screen all static image data accumulated in the static image
data accumulation means 130, then the preview image are edited, and
the edited preview image can be printed by the printing means.
[0303] It is desirable to prepare preview display means 130b which
displays the image of the accumulated static image data on the
static image data accumulation means 130, and to enable it to check
an accumulation situation easily.
[0304] Usually, the static image data accumulation means 130
accumulates two or more static image data with attaching
accumulation ranking which is given according to the ascending
order of the specific time of static image data. It becomes easy to
access each accumulated static image data by attaching accumulation
ranking according to the specific time of static image data.
Moreover, while reproducing a dynamic image, when two or more
static image is specified one after another and are accumulated in
order according to the ascending order of the specific time of the
static image, each scene in a dynamic image comes to arrange along
time series. Thus, it is possible to prepare a playback photography
by arranging the static images in order of accumulation.
[0305] The static image data accumulation means 130 may be provided
with an accumulation adjustment means 130a which can delete some or
all of static image data or change the accumulation ranking. By
establishing such an accumulation adjustment means, substitution of
the accumulated static image data becomes easy. Particularly, since
only a static image with a bad relation condition with the scene of
order can be easily substituted when editing the preview image of
playback photography, it is far efficient rather than it redoes the
selection work of static image data from the start. Furthermore,
according to the accumulation adjustment means, since it is
possible to arrange each static image in an order which is not
related to a motion of an actual dynamic image, it is possible to
produce a preview image which has an unique characteristic distinct
from the playback photograph of dynamic image wherein each scene is
arranged along the time series.
[0306] It is desirable to add to the accumulation adjustment means
130a a function which can give arbitrary accumulation ranking when
choosing new static image data. When accumulation adjustment means
130a has such a function, the newly chosen static image data can be
directly inserted in arbitrary accumulation ranking in a relation
with 1 or more static image data which have already been
accumulated.
[0307] The static image data specifying means 112 containing the
dynamic image viewing means 128, the static image selection means
129, and static image data accumulation means 130 are realizable by
executing the program stored in memory storage, such as a memory
and a hard disk, with the computer.
[0308] If required order contents are input into this printing
system 102 by the order inputting means 113 while 1 or more static
image data 121 are specified by the static image data specifying
means 112, the output content designation data producing means 114
will be performed. Consequently, based on some of static image data
121 and order contents 122, the output content designation data 123
which comprises the image data 124 to be output and the data 125
which recorded the other appendix conditions would generate.
[0309] Here, as the additional new order content which are input in
order to generate the output content designation data, there are
the concrete contents of edit for processing print number of sheets
and static image data, for example. The directions about the
trimming of a image, expansion/reduction, synthesis with the
material of a frame or others, the whole layout, etc. are included
in the contents of edit. The appendix conditions 125 which
accompany the image data to be output are contents which is
necessary for directing with image data to a printing means so that
a printed article is outputted as order, and for example, items,
such as a kind of print number of sheets, size, and paper, are
included.
[0310] The static image data 121 and the order contents 122
transmitted to the output content designation data producing means
114, when the directions which should process a static image are
included in order contents, are delivered to the editing means 131
with which the output content designation data producing means 114
was equipped, and edition is performed, and the image data 124
recorded in the image to be output generates. When the directions
which should print the static image recorded on the static image
data specified as order contents by the above mentioned static
image data specifying means 112 as it is are included, the static
image data 121 itself is recognized as image data 124 which records
the image to be output at the output content designation data
producing means 114. Moreover, some order contents are recognized
as conditions 125 which accompany the image data 124 to be
output.
[0311] The editing means 131 is realizable by executing the program
stored in memory storage, such as a memory and a hard disk, by
computer. Moreover, the materials, such as a frame design which is
synthesized with the a static image in edition, can accumulate in a
material database which can construct in memory storage, such as a
hard disk of a computer. When an advanced edit function is not
required to the dynamic image shot printing system of this
invention, and only to choose a best shot from a dynamic image, and
to print it as it is required, the editing means 131 may be
omitted.
[0312] The output content designation data 123 generated by the
output content designation data producing means 114 is transmitted
to the printing means 115, and a shot image is printed as order. As
the concrete output method of the printing means 115, for example,
an outputting method suitable for printing based on digital image
data, such as the sublimation type thermal transfer method, the
melting type thermal transfer method, and the ink jet, can be
utilized.
[0313] In the image printing system 102 of the present invention, a
fee charging means 132 may be provided for collecting the fee for
outputting and providing an image. In case the fee charging means
is provided, the fee charging means is driven after driving the
order content inputting device, more preferably after driving the
image editing means 131 if the image editing is performed and
before outputting a printed article by the drive of the printing
means 115. It is preferable to show the amount to be collected by
the fee charging means to a user on the display device (not shown)
together with the order content.
[0314] When the customer inserts a bill and/or a coin in the fee
charging means according to the guide of the amount display by the
display device, the fee charging means calculates the accepted
amount and returns the change if any.
[0315] The fee collection means 132 can be constituted combining
suitably a coin and bill discernment device, change return device,
the computer that manages a fee collection state.
[0316] A receipt producing means may be provided in the fee
charging means. The receipt producing means automatically produces
the receipt having the collected amount and the order content
printed thereon after completing the fee collection by the fee
charging means. The receipt producing means may further comprise a
receipt producing eliminating means so that the producing of the
receipt can be eliminated selectively in case the customer does not
need the receipt. In this case, after completing the collection of
the fee, an operation guidance "Would you like a receipt
published?" or the like is displayed on the display device (not
shown) so that the user presses a corresponding touch panel button
or keyboard for executing the choice of producing or not
producing.
[0317] Next, the construction of apparatus capable of carrying out
this invention will be explained through an example of construction
of apparatus capable of carrying out the shot image printing system
102 shown in FIG. 46.
[0318] FIG. 47 shows the external appearance of the post type image
outputting apparatus 133 used as the printing system 102. In FIG.
47, a screen of a monitor 134 with a touch panel is disposed on the
upper front surface of the post type image outputting apparatus
133. The monitor 134 with a touch panel may be a CRT or liquid
crystal panel. The monitor 134 with a touch panel performs as a
display device for displaying the operation guidance, the operation
state, the read out dynamic image, specified static image, the
processed image or the like as well as a device for the inputting
operation for inputting an order content including the search items
of the event information or the like.
[0319] Insertion ports 135 to 139 for various recording media are
provided sideways to the monitor 134 with a touch panel. A scanner
reading surface 140 is provided on a horizontal part dividing the
upper part and the lower part for reading the image of a printed
article and processing the same to digital data. In this
embodiment, these are a part of the image data inputting means. In
this embodiment, as the insertion ports for the various recording
media, specifically, a flexible disc insertion port 135, a CD-ROM
insertion port 136, a PC card insertion port 137, a smart medium
insertion port 138, and a compact flash insertion port 139 at a
position on the whole. Moreover, the main bodies of each reading
device are installed inside the housing of the post type image
outputting apparatus 133 corresponding to the insertion port of
each recording medium. A shutter (not shown) may be provided on
each insertion port so that the recording medium cannot be taken
out until collection of the fee is completed.
[0320] In the lower part of the post type image outputting
apparatus 133, a maintenance key 141, a speaker 142, a coin
insertion port 143, a coin return lever 144, a bill insertion port
145, a change return port 146, a receipt outlet port 147, a printed
article (for standard printing) outlet port 148, a printed article
(for pre-cut seal) outlet port 149, and a front door
opening/closing key 150 are disposed. The maintenance key 141 is a
key for switching an ordinary drive mode capable of accepting a
customer, and an administration mode for setting the image printing
system or maintenance by an administrator. The speaker 142 is for
reproducing the sound, BGM, effect sound or the like while waiting
or operation.
[0321] In this embodiment, the coin insertion port 143, the coin
return lever 144, the bill insertion port 145, and the change
return port 146 constitutes a part of the fee charging means. A
customer would pay for the fee by inserting a coin in the coin
insertion port 143 and/or inserting a bill in the bill insertion
port 145. In case there is a change, it is discharged from the
change return port 146 so that it is received by the customer.
Moreover, In case a coin is choked, it is discharged from the
change return port 146 by turning the coin return lever 144 so that
it is received by the customer.
[0322] In this embodiment, the receipt outlet port 147 constitutes
a part of the receipt producing means and the order receipt note
producing means. After collecting the fee by the fee charging
means, a receipt with the collected amount and the order content
printed is discharged from the receipt outlet port 147.
[0323] In this embodiment, the printed article (for standard
printing) outlet port 148 and the printed article (for pre-cut
seal) outlet port 149 constitute parts of the printing means. After
the customer inputs the command for printing, by touching any
button of the touch panel, or so, the customer may receive a
printed article discharged from the printed article outlet port 148
or the printed article outlet port 149.
[0324] By turning the front door opening/closing key 150, the front
door is opened so that the maintenance work for each device
installed inside the housing can be executed. In the housing of the
post type image outputting apparatus 133, each main body is
installed corresponding to the screen of the monitor with a touch
panel, the insertion port, and the scanner reading surface. A
volume adjusting part is installed corresponding to the speaker
142. Corresponding to the coin insertion port 143, the coin return
lever 144, the bill insertion port 145, and the change return port
146, a coin mech (coin processing device) for identifying the
coins, storing, and returning the change, a bill bari (bill
processing device) for identifying the bills, and storing, and a
safe for storing the coins in case the coin mech is fill, are
installed. Corresponding to the receipt outlet port 147, a receipt
printer is installed. Furthermore, corresponding to the printed
article outlet port 148, and the printed article outlet port 149, a
printer is installed respectively.
[0325] Moreover, although it is not apparently recognized by the
external appearance, inside the housing of the post type image
outputting apparatus 133, a personal computer including a control
unit for controlling each device in the image outputting apparatus
133, a power source box for converting the voltage, an
interruptible power supply device for preventing breakage of the
CPU, the hard disc or the like in the control unit at the time of
blackout or the like are installed.
[0326] FIG. 48 shows a block diagram of shot image printing system
102 stored in the post type image outputting apparatus 133 shown in
FIG. 47. In this embodiment, the post type image outputting
apparatus 133 comprises a control unit 151, a hard disc 152, a
CD-ROM reading device 153, a monitor 134 with a touch panel n sets
of image data reading devices 154, n sets of shutters 155, a coin
mech 156, a bill bari 157, a receipt journal processing part 158,
and two sets of printers 159, 160, and connected via a bus 161.
[0327] The control unit 151 of the post type image outputting
apparatus 133 comprises a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM for controlling the
drive of the devices connected via the bus according to a program
stored in the hard disc 152 as a large scale memory medium. In the
hard disc 152, programs for controlling the drive of the devices,
such as a reading program corresponding to each recording medium,
an opening/closing control program for the shutters, a fee charging
program or the like, as well as a static image specification
program for specifying a best shot from the dynamic image input by
replaying the dynamic image and selecting the desired scene, an
image processing program for processing an input image, a material
data base storing information of frames to be used for the image
synthesis, or the like, are stored so as to be read out as needed
and stored in the RAM for driving various devices. The CD-ROM
reading device 153 is used for upgrading the version of programs or
any information stored in the ROM or the hard disc of the post type
image output apparatus such that a CD-ROM for upgrading the version
is inserted in the CD-ROM reading device 153 for rewriting the data
with the terminal part switched to the administration mode by the
maintenance key.
[0328] In FIG. 48, by selecting and executing the touch panel
buttons displayed on the monitor 134 with a touch panel according
to the operation guidance displayed on the monitor 134 with a touch
panel, a series of the operation for choosing of the printing mode
and reading of the dynamic image data to the output of a printed
article can be executed. In this embodiment, first, the menu of the
printed article is selected according to the operation guidance
displayed on the monitor 134 with a touch panel, and in case the
touch panel button is pressed, an operation screen for guiding the
input of the image data is shown on the monitor 134 with a touch
panel. The customer can direct which shall be used between a
dynamic image data or static image data as original image data in
this guidance screen.
[0329] The image data reading devices 154 include various reading
devices 1 to n corresponding to various kinds of recording media so
that the customer can input dynamic image datum or static image
datum recorded in a recording medium the customer has into the
terminal part 2 by using the corresponding reading device, after
the designation of either the dynamic image or the static image to
be read in the above guidance screen. The image data reading
devices 154 also include a scanner so that an static image can be
read out from a printed article, processed to be digital data, and
inputted into the post type image output apparatus 133. In case the
image data reading devices 55 are not dedicated for reading but
also they can record image data in a recording medium, the customer
can store the image data of the edited image produced by operating
the post type image output apparatus 133 and take it home with the
customer. The shutters 155 are provided at the recording medium
insertion ports of the reading devices 1 to n so that the taking
out operation of the recording medium can be prohibited during the
reading process, or until the fee charging process is completed by
port or closing the recording medium insertion port.
[0330] When the dynamic images provided by the customer are
inputted as digital data using the image data reading devices 154
according to the operation guidance on the monitor 134 with a touch
panel, the static image specification program is performed and the
customer can choose the static image data which records the scene
be printed or the static image data which records the image used as
the material for editing the image to be printed. According to
operation guidance of the monitor 134, the dynamic image input is
reproduced on the screen of the monitor 134 in order to search the
scene of best shot. Once the customer finds out his favorite scene,
he may push the button which choose static image data, and thus,
the customer can choose 1 or more static image data. At this time,
playback speed can be made late, or a dynamic image can be stopped,
so as that a best shot can be chosen easily.
[0331] The screen of the monitor 134 with touch panel is divided
into two, and at one of them the dynamic image replays and at the
other side the selected static images display in the thumb nail
images as a list. The customer may delete a part of the temporary
static image data, replace the order, or add another static image
in any position, and finally he can specify the static image to be
adapted.
[0332] An dynamic image is reproduced by one side of the screen
which the screen of the monitor 134 with a touch panel is divided,
and was divided, and a list indication of the selected static image
is given in the form of the thumb nail image at another side. A
user deletes a part from the static image data by which chose
temporarily and it was indicated by the list, replaces an order,
adds static image data to arbitrary ranking, and can specify the
static image data which should finally be adopted.
[0333] When an static image is specified, an image processing
program is executed according to a printing menu already selected.
The customer can process the image, such as reduction, enlargement,
rotation, deformation, synthesis with another image or the like
according to the operation guidance on the monitor 134 with a touch
panel. At the time, image materials stored in the material data
base, such as picture frames can be utilized as well.
[0334] After completion of the edit of the image, according to the
operation guidance on the monitor 134 with touch panel, the order
content other than the printing menu and the process content, such
as the number of prints, the print size or the like, is inputted.
Also at this time, the order content can be input by pressing a
button or ten keys displayed on the touch panel. In case a printing
menu not requiring the edit of the original image is selected at
the time of the start, the operation screen for guiding the edit
operation is eliminated so that the operation guidance for guiding
the other order content is displayed immediately.
[0335] After all the order content is inputted, on monitor 134 with
the touch panel, the screen for the charged fee is displayed
together with the order content and the fee payment is requested.
When a coin is inserted and/or a bill is inserted to the post type
image output apparatus 133 according to the payment request, the
coin mech 156 and/or the bill bari 157 are driven so as to execute
the fee charging process such as judgment of genuineness of the
coin or bill inserted to the post type image output apparatus 133
for the fee payment, the judgment of the kind thereof, the amount
calculation, the discharge of the change or the like. After
finishing the fee charging process, the receipt journal part 154
prints the printing menu, the collected fee amount or the like on a
receipt paper and discharges the receipt. The system can be set so
as to eliminate the drive of the fee charging means in case request
of the fee payment is not needed.
[0336] After the discharge of the receipt, the shutter is opened so
as to enable taking out of the inserted recording medium so that
the operation screen for guiding the take-out of the recording
medium is displayed on the monitor 134. When the recording medium
is taken out, a printed article is output by the printer 159 or
160. The printer 159 can output a standard size printed article
with a standard image quality, and the printer 160 can output a
pre-cut seal printed article.
[0337] Next, the motion of the dynamic shot printing system of the
present invention will be explained with reference to a flow charts
and the indication on the monitor 134 with a touch panel, as the
post type image output apparatus 133 shown in FIGS. 47 and 48.
[0338] In the embodiment of the image printing system according to
the present invention, a start screen as shown in FIG. 8 is
displayed on the screen of the monitor 134 with a touch panel in
the post type image output apparatus 133. In case an optional
position of the start screen is touched by a hand, a main menu
screen as shown in FIG. 9 is indicated. In case the main menu
screen is left for a predetermined time, it returns to the start
screen. In the main menu screen, the kinds of the printed articles
to be selected are shown. Specifically, touch panel buttons for the
"digital photo", the "frame synthesis", the "index print", the
"seal", the "certification photograph", and the "postcard print"
are shown in the upper and lower two rows. In the main menu screen,
if "photo edit" is chosen, the printed article of the image plus
event information can be created.
[0339] In case the "digital photo" is selected in the main menu
screen and the touch panel button thereof is touched, a print out
can be provided by reading the dynamic or static image data from a
smart medium, a PC card, a compact flash card, a CD-ROM, or a
flexible disc (FD), or reading the image data from a printed
article such as a photograph using a scanner.
[0340] In case the "flame synthesis" is selected, a print out can
be provided by reading the dynamic or static data from a smart
medium, a PC card, a compact flash card, a CD-ROM, or a flexible
disc (FD), or reading the image from a printed article such as a
photograph using a scanner, and synthesizing the read out image
with a frame which is provided by the system.
[0341] In case the "index print" is selected, an index print with a
thumb nail image displayed can be printed out by reading the image
data from a smart medium, a PC card, a compact flash card, a
CD-ROM, or a flexible disc (FD).
[0342] In case the "seal" is selected, a pre-cut seal can be
printed out by reading the dynamic or static image data from a
smart medium, a PC card, a compact flash card, a CD-ROM, or a
flexible disc (FD), or reading the image data from a printed
article such as a photograph using a scanner, and synthesizing the
read out image and a frame prepared by the system side. In the
pre-cut seal, a plurality of small screens (frames) of the same
image are printed, with each small screen divided by half cut.
[0343] In case the "certification photograph" is selected, an image
for the certification photograph is taken by a digital camera in
the store so as to be stored in a flexible disc, and then, the
stored image data are read out by the main body so that they can be
printed out after selecting the size from the driver's license
size, the curriculum vitae size, the passport size, and the visa
size, and selecting color or monochrome.
[0344] In case the "post card print" is selected, a print can be
provided by reading the dynamic or static image data from a smart
medium, a CF card, a flexible disc (ED), a PC card, or a CD-ROM, or
reading the image data from a printed article such as a photograph
using a scanner, producing the postcard data by processing the read
out image, and reading the postcard data from the recording medium
storing the same.
[0345] First, the procedure in case the "digital photo" is selected
will be explained. In the main menu screen shown in FIG. 9, if the
"digital photo" position is touched by a hand, the "digital photo"
procedure shown in FIGS. 49 and 50 is started (S201). In each
operation screen to be indicated after the start of the "digital
photo" procedure, in principle, a "cancel" button and a "return to
the previous screen" button are provided so that it can return to
the start screen by pressing the "cancel" button, and it can return
to the operation screen of the previous step by pressing the
"return to the previous screen" button so as to enable change of
the operation.
[0346] In case the "digital photo" procedure is started, as shown
in FIG. 53, the operation screen which designates the kind of
original data is displayed, and either a static image or the
dynamic images can be designated (S202). The message of "please
designate the kind of data to be input" is shown laterally in the
uppermost row in the operation screen at this time, and therebelow
each touch-panel button of a "static image" and an "dynamic image"
are perpendicularly arranged, and "cancel" button and the button
"return to previous menu" are provided in the lowermost row.
[0347] When a dynamic image data is designated in this screen, as
shown in FIG. 54, the operation screen of the sub menu which asks
which shall be created between a standard print and a preview print
will be displayed (S203). In the operation screen at this time, the
message of "Standard print or preview print?" is shown laterally in
the uppermost row, and therebelow, each touch-panel button of a
"standard print", "preview print (quadrisection screens)", and "a
preview print (16 section screens)" are arranged perpendicularly,
and "cancel" button and the "return to previous menu" button are
provided in the lowermost row.
[0348] Here, a standard print prints one shot image on one screen.
On the other hand, a preview print prints two or more shot images
on one screen wherein the images are put in order, and for example,
the continuation photographic playback showing a decomposed swing
operation of golf may correspond to this type. Although a preview
print are used as 4 section screen or 16 section screen as shown in
the operation screen of FIG. 54, the number of section screen can
be arbitrarily changed into a printing system by setup.
[0349] In this screen, if one of print form is designated, as shown
in FIG. 55, an operation screen with the image data reading sources
shown is indicated so that a reading source can be selected (S204).
In the operation screen at the time, the message "please select the
medium for input from those shown below" is shown laterally in the
uppermost row, and therebelow, the touch panel buttons each with
the name of the smart medium, the compact flash card (CF card), the
flexible disc, the PC card, and the CD-ROM are shown. In the
operation screen shown in FIG. 53., when a static image is chosen
as original data, the touch-panel button which attached the name of
a photograph (scanner) is displayed further. In the operation
screen, in case a touch panel button is touched by a hand, the
corresponding reading source is selected.
[0350] If any of the reading sources is selected from the smart
medium, the CF card, the flexible disc, the PC card, and the
CD-ROM, the operation screen showing the inserting method
corresponding to the selected recording medium is indicated so that
the recording medium can be inserted and the dynamic image can be
read out (5205).
[0351] In the operation screen in case the smart medium is
selected, as shown in FIG. 12, the message "please set the smart
medium and press the reading start" is shown laterally in the
uppermost row, and a "reading start" button is provided in the
lowermost row together with the "cancel" button and the "return to
the previous screen" button. Similarly, in case the CF card is
selected, the operation screen shown in FIG. 13 appears. In case
the flexible disc is selected, the operation screen shown in FIG.
14 appears. In case the PC card is selected, the operation screen
shown in FIG. 15 appears. And in case the CD-ROM is selected, the
operation screen shown in FIG. 16 appears.
[0352] In case a recording medium is inserted in the predetermined
insertion port according to the guidance of the operation screen
and the reading start button on the touch panel is touched by a
hand, the insertion port with the recording medium inserted is
closed by the shutter so as to start the reading operation of the
image data.
[0353] After reading of a dynamic image data is completed, as shown
in FIG. 56, the operation screen which specifies a best shot from
the countless scene included in the dynamic image appears, and
static image data can be chosen (S206). The operation screen at
this time is divided into right and left. On the left-hand side of
the operation screen, the dynamic image display screen which
replays a dynamic image, the scale in which the display position
(relative lapsed time to all reproduction time) of a dynamic image,
and the touch-panel button group for directing reproduction of a
dynamic image and selection of static image data was
perpendicularly arranged, and on the right-hand, the preview screen
which indicates by list the scene (static image) and touch-panel
button group for performing choice of selected static image data
and making a change of accumulation ranking is perpendicularly
arranged. The "Determination" button as well as the "return to the
previous screen" button and the "cancel" button is provided to the
lowermost row of an operation screen.
[0354] In this operation screen, if the replay button is pushed,
the dynamic image will be reproduced on a dynamic image display
screen, and if the reverse button will be pushed, reverse play will
be carried out. The slow button makes playback speed late and the
reverse slow button makes reverse play speed late. The
frame-advance button playback each scene of a dynamic image
frame-by-frame, the frame-back button returns each scene of a
dynamic image frame-by-frame. The fast-forward button playback the
dynamic image at high speed and the fast-rewind button reverse the
dynamic image at high speed. The pause button makes a dynamic image
temporary stop, and fixes one scene, and displays it on a
screen.
[0355] The photographic playback button make a display of
photographic playback which displays several frames of scene
continuously wherein a scene reproduced when the button concerned
is pushed becomes the basal frame, namely, as the starting point,
the middle point, or the terminal point and it is in the form of
continuation photographic playback. The usual reproduction will be
resumed if the replay button is operated after operating the
photographic playback button and displaying the photographic
playback. In the example of FIG. 57, when the scene of FIG. 56 is
reproduced by the dynamic image display screen, the photographic
playback button is operated, and several scenes before and after
the scene of FIG. 56 are displayed by making the scene of FIG. 56
into a middle point.
[0356] When a best shot appears on a dynamic image display screen,
the static image data of a best shot can be chosen by operating the
selection button. Usually, after pushing a pause button and fixing
the image of a wish when it is made a slow motion and
frame-by-frame advance and a best shot appears further if a
reproduction button and a fast forward button are pushed, a dynamic
image is reproduced and the scene of a best shot is approached, the
static image data of a best shot can be easily chosen by pushing a
selection button. When the reproduction screen has passed the best
shot, it can wait to rewind by the inversion button or the rewind
button, to make inversion speed late with a reverse slow button or
a top return button if needed, and for a best shot to return.
Moreover, when continuation photographic playback as shown in a
dynamic image display screen in FIG. 57 is displayed, the surface
of each photographic playback is a touch panel, and after touching
and specifying a hand to be a favorite top, static image data can
be chosen by touching a selection button.
[0357] A list of the static image which are selected by the
operation of the selection button, chose and was accumulated is
given on the preview screen in right-hand side. Early accumulation
ranking is given to the selected order and each static image data
is arranged in the direction of the right from the left in the
uppermost row of a preview screen, henceforth, lowers the stage and
is arranged rightward from the left one by one. In printing a
preview image, the arrangement displayed on this preview screen
turns into arrangement of each picture frame in a preview image as
it is.
[0358] Each static image data which the selection button was
operated and was chosen is in the state still accumulated
temporarily. The frame of each static image arranged on the preview
screen is in function to a touch-panel button, and can be deleted
by touching and specifying a hand to be the frame of a static image
which is not pleased, and touching a deletion button (S207, S208,
S209). Moreover, by touching and specifying a hand to be a frame to
make it move, touching an insertion button and touching the frame
in the ranking of a change place with a hand after that changing an
accumulation order, other frame advance according to movement of
the specified frame by the ability making it move to the change
place of a wish of the specified frame, or it winds and falls
(S210, S211, S212).
[0359] Moreover, after making the deletion and ranking change of
static image data which are accumulated, additional selection of
the still newer static image data can be carried out (S213). The
direct addition of the static image data can be carried out at the
accumulation ranking of a wish by pushing an insertion button
first, touching the frame in ranking adding to the next with a
hand, and specifying an additional position, and operating a
selection button, and choosing new static image data to add static
image data to predetermined accumulation ranking directly.
[0360] Thus, if choice of static image data and correction of
accumulation ranking end, a determination button is pushed and
static image data is specified. Although static image data can be
accumulated until fill the preview screen, it is not necessary to
accumulate until it fills. Even when a standard print is specified
in the screen of FIG. 54, two or more static image data can be
specified, in that case, the parallel processing of two or more
static image data is carried out in a following process, and the
shot image from which a scene differs can be printed as an
independent printed article. Moreover, when a preview print (four
section screens) or a preview print (16 section screens) is
specified in the screen of FIG. 54, several number of the specified
static image data can be accumulated. For example, when a preview
print (four split screens) is specified, static image data can be
accumulated to four.
[0361] When static image data is specified, operation screens as
shown in FIG. 58 or FIG. 59 appear and being able to check the
image to be output, print number of sheets is specified (S301,
S302). When a standard print is designated in the operation screen
of FIG. 54, as shown in FIG. 58, the operation screen which
indicated the thumb nail image of all the specified static images
by the list appears.
[0362] In the operation screen at the time, the message "please
select the image to be printed, and input the number of prints" is
shown laterally in the uppermost row, and therebelow, total 6 thumb
nail images are shown in the two rows laterally, with the column
for inputting the number of prints provided to each thumb nail
image. Below the thumb nail images, "+" and "-" buttons for
increasing or reducing the number of prints, and "+" and "-"
buttons for the total images are provided. By selecting a thumb
nail image on the screen for selecting the image, and touching the
"+" and "-" buttons for the "selected image", the number of prints
for the selected image can be increased or reduced individually. In
contrast, by touching the "+" and "-" buttons for the total images,
the number of prints can be increased or reduced for all the images
displayed on the screen.
[0363] In case the number of the thumb nail images so large than
they cannot be shown on one screen, all the thumb nail images are
shown, divided in a plurality of pages. The page number currently
appearing on the screen and triangular scroll buttons for moving
forward or backward among the pages are displayed on the screen in
the same row as the buttons for increasing or reducing the number
of prints. Moreover, in the lowermost row of the operation screen
at the time, a "determination" button is provided together with the
"cancel" button and the "return to the previous stage" button. By
selecting the images to be printed in the operation screen, setting
the number of prints for each image, and pressing the determination
button, the order content is set.
[0364] On the other hand, when a preview print is specified in the
operation screen of FIG. 54, as shown in FIG. 59, the preview image
to be output is displayed. In addition, the preview image of four
split screens is displayed in this example. In the operation screen
at the time, the message "please input the number of prints" is
shown laterally in the uppermost row, and therebelow, a preview
screen of 4 section screen are shown, and below the 4 section
screen, "+" and "-" buttons for increasing or reducing the number
of prints, and the column for inputting the number of prints is
provided. In the lowermost row of the operation screen at the time,
a "determination" button is provided together with the "cancel"
button and the "return to the previous stage" button. By setting
the number of prints, and pressing the determination button, the
order content is set.
[0365] When the order content is set, as shown in FIG. 43, the
guidance screen for charging the fee appears for executing the fee
charging process (5303). In the guidance screen for the fee
charging process, the message "please insert money" is shown
laterally in the uppermost row, and therebelow, the number of
order, the fee for one sheet (unit price), the total amount (sum of
the charged amount), and the inserted fee (inserted amount) are
shown laterally from above successively in fourth rows. When the
amount inserted in the coin insertion port and/or the bill
insertion port according to the explanation on the guidance screen
reaches or exceeds the total charged amount, in case it is a mode
for only confirming the total amount, the change is discharged from
the change discharging port as needed, and the guidance screen for
requesting the fee charge content appears as shown in FIG. 44. In
the guidance screen at the time, the message "if it is okay, please
press the confirmation button" is shown laterally in the uppermost
row, and therebelow, the number of order, the fee for one sheet,
and the total amount are shown laterally from above successively in
three rows. In the lowermost row, the "confirmation" button is
provided together with the "cancel" button and the "return to the
previous screen" button. In the guidance screen, in case the
confirmation button is touched, the fee charging process is
completed so as to move to the next step.
[0366] When the fee charging process is completed, the fee receipt
is published so as to be discharged from the receipt outlet port
(S304). After producing the receipt, the operation screen for
removing the recording medium, which is the reading source of the
image data, appears, and furthermore, in case the recording medium
is inserted in the reading machine, the shutter of the insertion
port is opened (S305). As shown in FIG. 30, in the operation screen
in case the smart medium is inserted, the message "please remove
the smart medium and press the printing start" is shown laterally,
and the "printing start" button is provided in the lowermost row.
Similarly, in case the CF card is inserted, the operation screen as
shown in FIG. 31 appears. In case the flexible disc is inserted,
the operation screen as shown in FIG. 32 appears. In case the PC
card is inserted, the operation screen as shown in FIG. 33 appears.
And in case the CD-ROM is inserted, the operation screen as shown
in FIG. 34 appears.
[0367] In case the recording medium inserted in the reading machine
is removed and the printing start button is touched according to
the guidance on the operation screen, the printing is started by
the printer installed in the post type image output means (S306).
During the printing process, the guidance screen as shown in FIG.
60 appears. In the guidance screen at the time, the message "now
printing" is shown laterally in the uppermost row, therebelow, the
image being printed is shown, and below the image, a time line
roughly indicating the proceeding state of the printing process is
lit. When the printing process is finished, the printed article of
the shot image is discharged from the printed article outlet port
(standard printing) of the main body, and the finish screen as
shown in FIG. 37 appears. The finish screen in the meantime returns
to the start screen.
[0368] In addition, when a static image is specified as original
data in the operation screen of FIG. 53, all the static images
currently recorded on recording media are read, and an operation
screen as shown in FIG. 58 appears, it is indicated by list in the
form of the thumb nail image, a image to print is chosen, and print
number of sheets can be specified for every image.
[0369] Next, the procedure at the time of choosing "frame
synthesis" is explained. If the position of "frame synthesis" is
touched with a hand in the main menu screen of above mentioned view
9, the procedure of "frame synthesis" as shown in FIG. 51 and FIG.
50 will start (S401). In addition, if the button will return to a
start screen and "will return to a before screen" if "cancel"
button and the button "return to the previous screen" are prepared
for each operation screen displayed after the procedure of "frame
synthesis" started in principle and "cancel" button is pushed is
pushed, it can return to the operation screen in front of 1 stage,
and operation can be redone.
[0370] If the procedure of "frame synthesis" starts, as shown in
the view 53 as stated above, the operation screen which specifies
the kind of original data is displayed, and either a static image
or the dynamic images can be specified (S402). If a dynamic image
data is specified in this screen, as shown in FIG. 55, the
operation screen which enumerated image data's reading origin is
displayed, and either reading origin can be chosen (S403). In
addition, although the operation screen of view 54 is omitted in
this example since only a standard print can be performed in the
procedure of "frame synthesis", it can also set up so that a
preview image can be edited in the procedure of frame synthesis. In
this operation screen, if one of touch-panel buttons is touched,
reading origin will be chosen, recording media can be inserted and
reading of a dynamic image data will be performed (S404).
[0371] After reading of a dynamic image data is completed, as shown
in FIG. 56, the operation screen which specifies a best shot from
the countless scene included in the dynamic image appears, and
static image data can be chosen (S405-S413). The process which
specifies this static image data is the same in the procedure of a
digital photograph.
[0372] If static image data is specified, as shown in FIG. 39, the
operation screen which enumerated frames is displayed, and one of
frames can be chosen (S414). In the operation screen at this time,
the message of "please choose a favorite frame design" is laterally
written by the uppermost row, below this massage, the frame designs
are enumerated, and "cancel" button, the button "return to previous
screen", the "expansion display" button, and "determination" button
are provided in the lowermost row. A frame design is called from a
material database and displayed on a screen.
[0373] In case the enlarged display button is touched after
touching one of a frame displayed on the screen, as shown in FIG.
61, the enlarged image of the selected frame is shown. In the
operation screen at the time, the message "if it is okay, please
press the confirmation button" is shown laterally in the uppermost
row, and below the message, the enlarged frame design is shown. In
the lowermost row, the "confirmation button" is provided together
with the "cancel" button, and the "return to the previous screen"
button. In case the customer does not like the enlarged frame, by
touching the return to the previous screen button, the screen with
the frames listed can be shown so that another frame can be
selected.
[0374] In case the determination button is touched immediately
after selecting the frame in the screen of FIG. 39, or in case the
confirmation button is touched after indicating the enlarged image
in the screen of FIG. 61, the frame to be used is set. In addition,
when "no frame" is chosen in the screen of FIG. 39, since it
becomes the procedure of performing the usual print of a digital
photograph, the screen immediately shown in FIG. 58 is
displayed.
[0375] If a frame is decided, while an operation screen as shown in
FIG. 62 will appear and the synthesized image will be displayed,
the size and the position of a static image and a frame can be
adjusted (S415, S416). The operation screen at this time is divided
into right and left, on the left-hand side of the operation screen
concerned, the message of "please adjust the position and size of a
image according to a design" is laterally written in the uppermost
row, the edit screen which displays the synthesized image of the
static image data and the frame which have been set as the object
of edit on the message bottom is prepared, and the touch-panel
button group of expansion reduction and movement is prepared in the
bottom of it. On the other hand, the preview screen of a
synthesized image is displayed on the right-hand side of an
operation screen. Furthermore, "cancel" button, the "return to the
previous screen" button, the button "reset", and the "confirmation"
button are prepared in the lowermost row.
[0376] In this operation screen, each frame of a preview screen
serves as a touch panel, if hands are touched and specified to be
one of frames, it can be displayed on an edit screen, and the size
of the read image can be changed by touching expansion or reduction
button can be changed. Thus, the image can fit with a frame, and
the position of a image can be adjust with a frame by touching each
vertical and horizontal move button. If the reset button is
touched, it will return to original image size and an original
position. By repeating similar operation, The edition work can be
separately done about each static image data. However, it is also
possible to set up so that any one may be made into representation
and image edition may be performed thereto, when two or more static
image data is accumulated. Such a setup is effective when
synthesizing a frame for each frame of a preview image including
the seal print mentioned especially later.
[0377] If a synthesized image is decided, while the operation
screen same with being shown in FIG. 58 appears and being able to
check the image to be output, print number of sheets can be set up
(S301, S302). After this, the process shown in FIG. 50 similarly in
the procedure of a digital photograph is performed, and the printed
article of the shot image which synthesized the frame is obtained
(S303-S306).
[0378] Next, the procedure at the time of choosing a "seal" is
explained. If the position of a "seal" is touched with a hand in
the above mentioned main menu screen, the procedure of a "seal" as
shown in FIG. 52 and FIG. 50 will start (S501), and the pre-cut
seal divided into two or more small screens will be obtained. In
addition, in each operation screen to be indicated after the start
of the "seal" procedure, in principle, a "cancel" button and a
"return to the previous screen" button are provided so that it can
return to the start screen by pressing the "cancel" button, and it
can return to the operation screen of the previous step by pressing
the "return to the previous screen" button so as to enable change
of the operation.
[0379] If the procedure of a "seal" starts, as shown in the view 53
as stated above, the operation screen which specifies the kind of
original data is displayed, and either static image or dynamic
images can be specified (S502). If a dynamic image data is
specified in this screen, as shown in FIG. 63, the operation screen
which specifies whether the small screens of several scenes or the
small screens of the same scene should be printed will appear
(S503). In the screen at this time, the message of "which seal do
you want?" is laterally written by the uppermost row, the
touch-panel button of the choice "making 16 section screens with a
same scene" and "making 16 section screen with different scenes"
are arranged perpendicularly, and at the lowermost raw the "cancel"
button, the "return to the previous screen" button, and
"determination" button are provided. If either is chosen on this
operation screen, as shown in FIG. 55, the operation screen which
enumerated image data reading source is displayed, and either
reading source can be chosen (S504). In this operation screen, if
one of touch-panel buttons is touched, reading source will be
chosen, recording media can be inserted and reading of a dynamic
image data will be performed (S505).
[0380] After reading of a dynamic image data is completed, as shown
in FIG. 56, the operation screen which specifies a best shot from
the countless scene included in the dynamic image appears, and
static image data can be chosen (S506-S513). In the operation
screen of FIG. 63, when printing only the small screen of the same
scene is chosen, only one static image data is specified. Moreover,
in the operation screen of FIG. 63, when printing the small screen
where scenes differ is chosen, static image data can be specified
up to 16 pieces. The process which specifies this static image data
is the same in the procedure of a digital photograph.
[0381] If static image data is specified, as shown in FIG. 39, the
operation screen which enumerated frames can be displayed, a frame
can be chosen according to guidance on an operation screen, and a
frame can be synthesized on each smallness screen (S515-S517).
However, when a touch-panel button without a frame is chosen, the
process of frame synthesis can be skipped. In the procedure of a
"seal", frame synthesis can be performed similarly in the procedure
of "frame synthesis."
[0382] If a synthesized image is decided, while the operation
screen same with being shown in FIG. 58 appears and being able to
check the image to be output, print number of sheets can be set up
(S301, S302). After this, the process shown in FIG. 50 similarly in
the procedure of a digital photograph is performed, and the printed
article of the pre-cut seal which arranged the shot image of the
small screen which synthesized the frame is obtained
(S303-S306).
[0383] According to the dynamic image shot printing system of this
invention, as explained above, it is possible to process a dynamic
image data easily, possible to print shot image contained in a
dynamic image as it is or after advanced image processing.
Therefore, it can provide the image printing system and printed
article of high added value.
[0384] According to the dynamic image shot printing system of this
invention, by combining freely the original dynamic image contents
and/or original static image contents brought by a user with
dynamic image contents and/or static image contents possessed by
the system or originally obtainable by the system side, a new image
can be easily synthesized and easily printed out.
[0385] Moreover, if the owner of a dynamic image data can specify a
shot image from a dynamic image data personally by using the post
type image outputting apparatus according to this invention, it is
possible to delete such inconveniences that the customer should
specify a static image data from the dynamic image data in advance
to go to print shop, or asking the clerk of print shop to specify
the static image by replaying the dynamic image in front of the
clerk, and possible to easy access and use the system.
[0386] Moreover, since it is possible that the post type image
output apparatus is provided with an image processing system of
business-use and advanced performance and a printer of high
performance, by using such a post type image outputting apparatus,
the owner of a dynamic image data can make advanced edit freely to
the shot image of a dynamic image by his hand, obtain the shot
image of a dynamic image being printed on special goods, and the
printed article of a dynamic image shot with difficult creation
which are not be easily created by the personal computer and
printer at a home.
Addition Information Printing System
[0387] The embodiment of the addition information printing system
according to this invention is explained in detail. In the term
explained below, the word "image data 207", it is not be restricted
to the image data recorded on recording media, such as a flexible
disk, but analog images, such as a photograph, may also be
included. The word "printing apparatus 201" is also not limited to
the printing apparatus as shown in FIG. 64. As the printed
apparatus any kind of printing apparatus may be used as far as it
has a fee charging function and with the apparatus a customer 206
can obtains the printed article 208 of the image data 207 by
himself.
[0388] FIG. 64 shows the outline view of the addition information
printing system according to this invention, and FIG. 65 shows a
system construction thereof. As shown in these Figures, the system
has printing apparatus 201 which is installed in the shop 202, and
the database 204 installed by the host server 203, and the printing
apparatus 201 and database 204 are connected through the
communication circuit 205. If the shop 202 has amply space for
installing the database 204, the connection between the printing
apparatus 201 and the database 204 with in the same shop can be
connected with any connection code or line. Further they may be
connected via network. In this system, when the image data 207
which a customer 206 demands is printed as the printed article 208
by using the printing apparatus 201 installed in the shop 202 of
this system, various information service such as advertising
information, personal information, etc. can be offered as the
printed article 209 which is added to the printed article 208.
[0389] In the printing apparatus 201 installed in the shop 202 the
input part 211 for inputting image data 207, the output part 212
for outputting the input image data 207, the control part 213 which
controls through from input to output, the communications part 214
for communicating with the exterior, the display part 215 for
displaying an operation procedure, the memory part 216 which
processes procedure programs, such as an operation procedure and a
printing procedure, etc., and the fee collection processing part
217 for collecting the charge concerning the printing are connected
via a bus 210.
[0390] The input part 211 may be equipped with image data reading
apparatus 211a containing the various reading devices 1-n
corresponding to various kinds of recording media. Image data
reading apparatus 211a may include scanner 211b and electronic
media reading devices 211c. Scanner 211b is used in order to read
analog images, such as a photograph, and input as digital image
data. Electronic media reading apparatus 211c is used in order to
input the image data recorded on the electronic media. Moreover,
electronic media reading device 211c contains the various reading
devices corresponding to various kinds of recording media. As an
example of electronic media, e a floppy disk, a PC card, MO, smart
media, a compact flash, etc. may be cited. A customer can input the
image data currently recorded on the brought recording media using
corresponding reading apparatus.
[0391] The output part 212 may be equipped with the output unit for
outputting the image data input by the input part 211 as analog
images, such as a photograph. An output unit is printer 212a. As a
kind of this printer 212a, a sublimation transfer formula printer
is used suitably.
[0392] The control part 213 may be equipped with CPU, ROM, RAM,
etc. for controlling the flow of data (information), memorizing
temporarily, or calculating addition of a point etc. Moreover, it
may have a storing means for saving the image data input according
to the request of a customer. Moreover, it has an extraction means
by which the image data specified by demand of a customer always
can be extracted from the image data stored by the storing
means.
[0393] The system may have the hard disk 203 (mass memory medium)
as a memory part 216. A program is stored in a hard disk 203 and
the control part 213 controls each apparatus connected through the
bus 210 according to the program. As the program stored in hard
disk 216a, for example, an image processing program for processing
the input image, a questionnaire program for acquiring information
by the questionnaire, a point addition program for supply and
adding a point to the customer embracing the customer's use
situation, as well as a the reading program corresponding to each
recording media, a print control program, fee collection program,
an addition information print program, etc., are exemplified. Each
programs may read when needed, and various kinds of means are
performed.
[0394] The display part 215 is equipped with monitor 215a with
touch panel, and displays the operation guidance for performing the
program memorized by the memory part 216. According to the
displayed operation guidance, a series of operations from reading
of image data to the output of printed article can be performed by
performing selection and execution.
[0395] The fee collection processing part 217 is equipped with coin
mech 217a, bill bari 217b, and receipt journal processing part
217c, and performs fee collection processing which starts the
printing from the printed article which the customer demanded,
printing number of sheets, etc. The coin mech 217a and/or bill bari
217b perform fee collection processing of judgment of genuineness
of the coin or bill inserted for the fee payment, the judgment of
the kind thereof, the amount calculation, the discharge of the
change or the like. Receipt journal processing part 217c prints the
printing menu, the collected fee amount or the like on a receipt
paper and discharges the receipt.
[0396] The communications part 214 has communication device 214a.
Communication device 214a can communicate with the exterior, and
can perform movement of data etc. The exterior may be, for example,
the host server 203. The database 204 for storing image data 207 is
prepared for the host server 203, image data 207 is saved in the
database 204, or the saved image data 207 is extracted.
[0397] The host server 203 may be equipped with the communications
part 218, the control part 219, and a database 204. The
communications part 218 has communication device 218a.
Communication device 218 is connected with communication device
214a with which printing apparatus 201 was equipped through the
communication circuit 205. The control part 219 performs storing
and extraction control of the image data 207 demanded from printing
apparatus 201, or the information data 204b and 204c.
[0398] Image data 204a, shop information data 204b, and customer
information data 204c may be stored in a database 204. Image data
204a is image data 204a when a customer 206 uses printing apparatus
201. Shop information data is the information on shops 22 (shopping
center etc.) and advertisement/advertising information that
printing apparatus 201 was installed. For example, they are the
recommended information, coupon information, and the other member
information on the point card service which a shop deals with, on a
shop that printing apparatus was installed. The administrator of
printing apparatus 201 mainly inputs this information using
printing apparatus 201. Moreover, shop information data can carry
out the addition of change and new information etc. at any time.
Customer information data is personal information data of the
customer using printing apparatus 201. For example, it is point
data which adds the number of points and is added each time
according to the use situation of a customer individual's printing
apparatus. Customer information data is automatically updated at
any time, whenever a customer uses.
[0399] Thus, it has the input part 211 as an inputting means by
which a customer 206 or a printing apparatus donor inputs image
data 207 or information into printing apparatus 201. It has a
database 204 as a means to store the image data 207 or information
which carried out the input. With the demand from the above
mentioned customer 206 or printing apparatus 201, the information
(204a-204c) demanded from stored image data 204a or the information
(204b, 204c) is specified, and the work which extracts specified
image data 204a or the information (204b, 204c) is done by the
control part (213, 219) (controlling). The image data 207 input or
demanded by the customer 206, and information (204b,204c) while
having the output part 212 (printer 212a) as a printing means to
print 204c, printing the image data 207 which accepted the demand
of a customer 206, and the customer 206 input or demanded and
offering the printed printed article 208. It considered as the
addition information print service system which provides a customer
206 with the printed article 209 which printed information
(addition information).
[0400] The general view of printing apparatus is shown in FIG. 66.
Like illustration, the screen of monitor 215a with touch panel is
arranged at the upper row part front of the main part of printing
apparatus 201. As for this screen, CRT and a liquid crystal panel
are used. This monitor 215a with touch panel also demonstrates the
function as a means to perform input operation in an order
inputting means, a questionnaire inputting means, etc. while
demonstrating the function as a display means to display guidance
of operation, the situation of operation, the read image or the
processed image, etc.
[0401] As a image input part 211, the insertion ports 220-224 of
image data reading apparatus 211a which can read the image data
recorded on various recording media are formed beside the screen of
monitor 215a with touch panel. A scanner 211b reading surface is
provided on a horizontal part dividing the upper part and the lower
part for reading the image of a printed article and processing the
same to digital data.
[0402] In this embodiment, as the insertion ports for the various
recording media, specifically, a flexible disc insertion port 220,
a CD-ROM insertion port 221, a PC card insertion port 222, a smart
medium insertion port 223, and a compact flash insertion port 224
at a position on the whole. A shutter (not shown) may be provided
on each insertion port 220-224 for protecting these ports.
[0403] In the lower part of the main body, a maintenance key 225, a
speaker 226, a coin insertion port 227, a coin return lever 228, a
bill insertion port 229, a change return port 230, a receipt outlet
port 231, a printed article (for standard printing) outlet port
232, a printed article (for pre-cut seal) outlet port 233, and a
front door opening/closing key 234 are disposed.
[0404] The maintenance key 225 is a key for switching an ordinary
drive mode capable of accepting a customer, and an administration
mode for setting the image printing system or maintenance by an
administrator. In management mode, the color correlation for the
printed article to output from a printer outputting like standard
coloring information can be performed if needed suitably. The
speaker 226 is for reproducing the sound, BGM, effect sound or the
like while waiting or operation. The maintenance key 225 is a key
which changes the usual operation mode which can receive a
customer, and the management mode in which an administrator
performs a setup and maintenance of a image printing system. In
management mode, the color compensation for the printed article to
output from a printer outputting like standard coloring information
can be performed if needed suitably. A speaker 226 can reproduce a
sound, BGM, a sound effect, etc. during standby and operation.
[0405] The coin insertion port 227 or the bill insertion ports 229
is formed in order to pay a charge. The coin return lever 228 is
used when a coin is choked. Moreover, when the coin return lever
228 is turned, or when there is change to the injection amount of
money, it is from the change return port 235.
[0406] The receipt outlet port 231 constitutes a part of the
receipt producing means and the order receipt note producing means.
After collecting the fee by the fee charging means, a receipt with
the collected amount and the order content printed is discharged
from the receipt outlet port 231.
[0407] the printed article (for standard printing) outlet port 232
and the printed article (for pre-cut seal) outlet port 233
constitute parts of the printing means which is stored inside of
the main body. A printed article is discharged from the printed
article outlet port 232 or the printed article outlet port 233.
[0408] By turning the front door opening/closing key 234, the front
door is opened so that the maintenance work for each device
installed inside the housing can be executed. In the housing of the
main body 1, each main body is installed corresponding to the
screen of the monitor 215a with a touch panel, the insertion port
220-224, and the scanner 211b reading surface. A volume adjusting
part is installed corresponding to the speaker 226. Corresponding
to the coin insertion port 227, the coin return lever 228, the bill
insertion port 229, and the change return port 230, a coin mech
217a (coin processing device) for identifying the coins, storing,
and returning the change, a bill bari 217b (bill processing device)
for identifying the bills, and storing, and a safe for storing the
coins in case the coin mech 217a is fill, are installed.
Corresponding to the receipt outlet port 231, a receipt printer is
installed. Furthermore, corresponding to the printed article outlet
port 232, and the printed article outlet port 233, a printer 212a
is installed.
[0409] Moreover, although it is not apparently recognized by the
external appearance, inside the housing of the main body, a
personal computer 213 including a control unit for controlling each
device in the image outputting apparatus, a power source box for
converting the voltage, an interruptible power supply device for
preventing breakage of the CPU, the hard disc or the like in the
control unit at the time of blackout or the like are installed.
[0410] The flow chart for operation of the embodiment according to
this invention of is shown in FIG. 67. as shown in this figure,
when printing an image data by using this printing apparatus,
first, a customer performs selection of reading source (Step S601).
When inputting image data using recording media, such as a flexible
disk, it inserts in image data reading apparatus 211a (electronic
media reading apparatus 11c) as a predetermined input part 211
which can read the recording medium with which image data was
recorded (Step S602), and image data is read (Step S603). Since the
list of the thumb nail images of the image currently recorded on
recording media is displayed on monitor 215a with touch panel of
printing apparatus 201 (Step S604), image data (print) to be
printed, its printing number of sheets, etc. are set up (Step
S605). When inputting image data using analog data, such as a
photograph, since the guidance screen in a setup of image data,
such as a photograph, is displayed on monitor 215a with touch panel
as a display part 215. According to the guidance, manuscripts
(photograph etc.) are set to image data reading apparatus 211a
(scanner 211b) as an input part 211 (Step S606), and image data is
read (Step S607) Since the image was displayed on monitor 215a with
touch panel of printing apparatus 1 (Step S608) when image data was
read, if necessary, after adjusting such as expansion, reduction
move or rotation of a image etc., printing (print) number of sheets
etc. is set up (Step S609).
[0411] Next, a charge is determined according to the set up
situation. A charge is changed by the existence of point addition
service. ("Point addition service" is a form which adds the number
of points according to a customer's use situation, and offers
various services with the number of points.) The customer chooses
existence of point addition, when a setup of the form of printing,
number of sheets, etc. is completed (Step S610). When performing
point addition, the card numbers (ID number, password, etc.) of a
point card are input (Step S611). By inquiring the card number to
the customer information data stored in the database, the customer
is specified and to the specified customer information data points
is added (Step S612), and it stores in a database (Step S613). When
not performing point addition, reduction operation of point service
is performed according to the situation used this time (Step S614),
and discount etc. is served.
[0412] Here, the service correspondence table having shown the
service outline is shown in Table 1. The data of Table 1 is
beforehand stored in the memory part (hard disk) of printing
apparatus, and reads and processes the information which
corresponds in case the number of points is added, or in case the
charge concerning printing is computed. TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1
SERVICE CORRESPONDENCE TABLE Service Point Discount Print Mode
(Point) (yen) Digital Photo Print 1 5 Seal Print 4 20 (per 1
print)
[0413] If a printing form is a digital photograph print as shown in
Table 1, when performing point addition per print, the number of
points is added 1 point, and when not performing point addition,
discount of 5 yen is performed. On the other hand, if a printing
form is a seal print, when performing point addition per print, the
number of points is added 4 point, and when not performing point
addition, discount of 20 yen is performed. For example, when a
customer performs a setup which prints 4 digital photograph print
and 4 seal prints at a time, and it performs point addition, since
seal prints is added 16 point, a digital photograph print is added
4 point and a total of 20 points. On the other hand, when not
performing point addition, since 80 yen is discounted for the seal
print and 20 yen for digital photograph print, a total of 100 yen
is discounted from the normal charge.
[0414] Next, fee collection processing is performed (Step S615).
Fee collection processing computes normal charge by setup of a
printing form, number of sheets, etc. which the above mentioned
customer set up. Then, when there is service of discount etc., the
charge to be indicated is calculated by deducting discount money
from the normal charge. Once a charge is computed, the print data
of the charge will be created and it will display on monitor 215a
with touch panel as a display part 215. A customer peruses the
monitor 215a, and checks a charge. A customer injects the displayed
charge from the predetermined entrance slot after a check.
[0415] After fee collection processing is completed, while
extracting the image data which extracted the image data specified
from recording media or the scanner (Step S616), and was specified
out of image data 204a stored in the database 204, addition
information data is extracted from shop information data 204b
stored in the database 204, and customer information data 204c
(Step S617). The image data and addition information data which
were extracted are printed, and a customer is provided with the
usual print and an addition information print (Step S618).
Moreover, the screen of the purport for asking cooperate in a
questionnaire using the time of the waiting for printing is
displayed (Step S619). Processing is ended when the customer will
not cooperate (Step S620). When the customer will cooperate, a
questionnaire item is displayed and a customer inputs an item
according to the display (Step S621). The input information is
saved as questionnaire information data 204d in a database 204
(Step S622). This questionnaire information data 204d, it totals at
any time and uses for an improvement of a shop etc. To the customer
who had cooperated in a questionnaire, superior addition
information data is further extracted from shop information data
204b etc. (Step S623). The extracted additional addition
information data is printed, a customer is provided with the
superior addition information print (Step S624), and processing is
ended.
[0416] The example of a display of the addition information print
with which a customer is provided is shown in FIG. 68. When
printing apparatus 201 is installed in the shopping center or the
like, the addition information print 235 includes the number of
point accumulation as point information 236 on a shopping center
management card, the advertisement 238 and its image 238a which are
the loss leader or recommended goods of a shopping center, the
discount ticket 237 which can be used in the shopping center and as
shop information, the other advertising information 239, 239a-239c
etc. is printed with the form arranged in the predetermined
position, and a customer is provided with the printed article. What
is arranged where sets up in advance, and it extracts each
information from a database 204, embeds it automatically, and
prints it.
[0417] Thus, as a form of the service to a customer 206, the point
addition program is beforehand stored in the memory part 216 of
printing apparatus 201 and it is shown in Step S610-Step S614,
while adding a point automatically according to the situation that
the customer 206 used printing apparatus 201, the control part 213
performs addition processing with a former point, and it may store
the number of points as customer information data in a database.
When providing a customer 206 with the printed article 9 which
printed addition information, it is desirable to also specify the
above mentioned point information 236 (the number of accumulation).
Moreover, the questionnaire program as a questionnaire inputting
means is beforehand stored in the memory part 216 of printing
apparatus 201. When a customer 206 has answer to a questionnaire as
a questionnaire program is performed and it is shown in Step
S619-Step S624, while printing the printed article (8 9) of Step
S618, printed article 9a which printed new addition information may
be added, so as to provide for a customer 206. Moreover, the
printed article 9 and 9a which printed the addition information in
the above mentioned service may have at least one of printed
article with which the point information 236 (the number of
accumulation), the shop information 237, 238, and 238a (an
advertisement, recommended information, etc.), an advertisement
239-239c information, etc. was printed at least.
[0418] As mentioned above, although the operation form of printing
apparatus equipped with an addition information print service
system was shown, it is not limited to this operation form, but can
carry out according to various forms. Similarly, printing apparatus
is not limited to this form.
[0419] According to the addition information printing system of the
third aspect of this invention, a customer can receive the
information on the service (point addition service, discount
service) according to the use situation, and others etc., like the
service currently offered in other DPE shops etc. Moreover, in the
shopping center in which the printing apparatus was installed,
effective advertisement can be performed with the timely hit of the
shop. Furthermore, an advertising income can also be obtained by
inviting other advertisements.
[0420] The entire disclosure of Japanese Patent Applications No.
2000-247743 filed on Aug. 17, 2000, NO. 2001-008226 filed on Jan.
16, 2001, and No. 2001-076477 filed on Mar. 16, 2001 including the
specification, claims, drawings, and summary are incorporated
herein by reference in its entirety.
* * * * *