GB2324002A

GB2324002A - Image print amusement unit and homepage preperation device

Info

Publication number: GB2324002A
Application number: GB9804001A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Hideki Sugimoto; Hirosuke Ishimura; Hisahiro Matsuhashi
Original assignee: Funai Electric Co Ltd
Current assignee: Funai Electric Co Ltd
Priority date: 1997-03-31
Filing date: 1998-02-25
Publication date: 1998-10-07
Anticipated expiration: 2018-02-25
Also published as: GB2324002B; CA2230915A1; CN1195147A; DE19814409A1; GB9804001D0

Abstract

An image print amusement unit includes a pick-up for collecting a subject image desired by a player, a memory for storing frame image data; a display device for combining the frame image data and the collected subject image to form a resultant image and for displaying the resultant image on a screen; a home page preparation device for preparing an Internet home page based on the subject image collected by the image pick-up and the frame image data stored in the memory, the home page preparation device being connectable over at least one of a telephone line and a network line to a home page image server for opening the prepared home page to the Internet; and a recorder for printing the displayed image on a seal and for printing out at least a portion of the home page prepared by the home page preparation device on a seal, each of the seals being capable of being provided to the player. The image print amusement unit enables a player to enjoy both seal print amusement and home page amusement, accessing the Internet, and printing out of the home page on a seal. The manager of the amusement unit can monitor management data on the sales and the use state for each type of amusement.

Description

IMAGE PRINT AMUSEMENT APPARATUS The present invention relates to an image print amusement unit for providing a seal on which the image of a human player or user operating the unit is printed. More particularly, the present invention relates to a terminal and server of a composite self-portrait preparation amusement unit for combining a self-portrait photographed by a player with a frame image (stored in a memory, for example) to prepare a composite self-portrait and for printing out the composite self-portrait on a seal.

An image print amusement unit sold under the name of PRINT CLUB operates as follows.

When coins of a predetermined amount are input to the unit, the unit enters an operation mode; uses a camera to pick up a subject image desired by a player; superimposes the subject image on frame image data provided as a background image to prepare a self-portrait; displays the resultant image or self-portrait on a CRT; and uses a video printer to print the image or self-portrait on a seal. Such amusement as provided by this type of unit will hereinafter be referred to as seal print amusement.

In the case where a unit is a composite self-portrait preparation unit incorporating a personal computer and standing alone (without connection to other units) adjacent a street or the like, such amusement as provided by this type of unit will hereinafter be referred to as stand-alone amusement.

Another unit which operates differently, on the other hand, is proposed. The proposed unit performs the functions of preparing an Internet home page containing image data, such as that provided in the above-described unit, when a player pays a predetermined charge; accessing the Internet over a telephone line for the purpose of allowing the player or others to watch the home page; opening the home page to the public; and printing out the home page image on a seal. Such amusement as provided by this type of unit will hereinafter be referred to as home page amusement.

The name HOKAGO CLUB will also be used herein to refer to this type of unit or amusement. In the case where a unit performs the functions of preparing an Internet home page containing portrait data (such as that provided in the above-described unit) as well as voice information or data, accessing the Intemet over a public telephone line and registering the home page, and printing out the self portrait on the home page as a seal, such amusement as provided by this type of unit for preparing a home page, opening the home page to the Intemet, and providing a print seal of the home page will be referred to hereinafter as network amusement. Moreover, an amusement unit terminal for use in this type of system will hereinafter be referred to alternately as a network amusement machine.

If a player would like to participate in both of these two types of amusements (seal print/stand-alone amusement v. home page/network amusement), a player would have to separately operate respectively dedicated machines. Because the services of amusement providers must necessarily provide separate units in order to make both of these types of amusements available, it is envisioned that installation space, facility costs, and operation costs will all be large.

In order to solve this condition, the present inventor has designed a singe amusement unit provided with both the seal print amusement and home page amusement functions. Nonetheless, difficulties have been encountered in reducing the space and cost for operating these two functions within a single amusement unit.

For example, with respect to these two types of amusement functions, the charge for the home page amusement, because of its contents, will be set higher than that for the seal print amusement.

Therefore, it is difficult to design the unit to automatically enter into the correct operating mode in response to the number of coins input by a player without incorporating a complicated construction.

In other words, if the seal print amusement and the home page amusement functions are incorporated into a single amusement unit, then an increased number of different types of input keys became necessary, it becomes difficult to produce the amusement unit at a low cost, and the amusement unit becomes more difficult to understand how to use.

- Especially in view of the fact that this type of amusement unit is contemplated for use by persons such as children or senior citizens who may not be as familiar with the manipulation of keys in computer-implemented devices, it is highly preferable to minimize to the extent possible both the number of steps required to operate the unit and the number of keys involved in such operation.

Another difficulty is that if the print seal paper used for the seal print amusement differs from that used with the home page amusement, then maintenance for the condition where the paper runs out, for example, becomes burdensome.

Also, in the case where the seal print and home page functions are built into a single amusement unit, it would be useful for the service provider of the unit to be able to know the sales volume and use state (i.e., how often each amusement is used) for each of the amusement types for management and business policy purposes. If a single unit is provided with more than one amusement, the total data for the unit can be somewhat easily monitored. However, separately monitoring the data for each of the seal print and home page amusements is difficult.

Moreover, it would also be useful to know information or data for management on the use state (i.e., how often used) of each ofthe plurality of frame image data pieces available as background images within a short time and without the intervention of human hands. Being able to accurately monitor and collect the coins input to the amusement unit would also be helpful.

With regard to an amusement unit incorporating the network amusement function, as discussed above, various designed frame images for use as background images and the like are provided at portrait preparation time. It is known that the degree to which each terminal or amusement unit is used (i.e, its popularity) is largely dependent on the type, design, and the like, of the frame images available on that terminal. Thus, if a single frame image set up is installed and then used forever without ever being updated, then the players will eventually become tired of the same offering of frame images from any given machine.

In view ofthis, the frame image data should be re-written periodically in a timely and regular fashion. For example, it is desirable to provide frame images with suitable features which vary from one season to another and from one region to another. Previously, in order to replace the frame image data in a terminal ofthis type of composite self-portrait preparation amusement unit, a worker or other service person had to directly carry a disk or the like storing frame image data to each individual machine in order to carry out the desired frame data replacement.

However, this manual replacement method results in poor time efficiency and is high in cost because, in any given geographic region (such as Japan), it is expected that a large number of the composite self-portrait preparation amusement terminals will be distributed throughout all parts of the region. It is inefficient and impractical to access such a large number of terminals distributed throughout the geographic region from the service side for the purpose of transferring frame image or other data.

Although not in the composite self-portrait preparation amusement unit field of the present invention, a replacement method in a general gaming system has been proposed. In this type of gaming replacement method, such as disclosed by Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. Hei 8-280934, for example, unit terminals are connected to a host computer over public telephone lines so that game programs can be updated to the newest programs.

A replacement method in a POS system has also been proposed. In this type of method, such as disclosed by Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Ho. Hei 5-233308, for example, a program can be downloaded from a host computer for upgrading an already existing program to a higher version under remote control based on a unit program of.a POS terminal connected to the host computer over a communication line.

Nonetheless, the program update methods in the general gaming system and the POS system cannot be applied to the rewriting of the frame image data of the composite self-portrait preparation amusement unit. A reason for this is that the composite self-portrait preparation amusement unit must replace one or more frame image data pieces in a timely fashion for each terminal while at the same time supporting the network amusement enjoyment functions of preparing a self-portrait at each terminal, printing the self-portrait, and connecting to a server for registering a home page on the Internet. A program which performs an operation different from the usual operation is required for rewriting the frame image data in the composite self-portrait preparation amusement unit under remote control and, while that program is being run, photographs cannot be taken and seal printing cannot be performed. This conflicts with the fact that the terminals are designed to be installed on srowded streets, where each unit is powered on from the starting of the operation of the unit in the morning to the stopping ofthe operation at night so that the terminal may essentially always be used.

Because the terminal may essentially always be used, there is a possibility that no adequate idle time for rewriting the frame image date will ever occur. (In the night, the terminal power is rarely turned on; thus, the frame image data cannot be'reliably written at that time either.) Accordingly, the present invention is directed to an image print amusement apparatus that substantially obviates one or more ofthe problems due to limitations and disadvantages of the related art.

It is therefore an object ofthe present invention to provide an image print amusement unit for enabling a player to enjoy both seal print amusement and home page amusement and, moreover, to enjoy home page amusement functions such as accessing the Internet and then printing out information relating to that of a home page on a seal.

Another object ofthe invention is to provide an image print amusement unit for enabling the selection between multiple amusements (e.g., between seal print amusement and home page amusement) by the mere input of coins or by the act of inputting coins coupled with a single key operation, thereby simplifying the construction of the selection function and reducing per unit cost so as to facilitate enjoyment of designated amusement functions and enhance overall satisfaction and amusement ofthe player. The image print amusement unit is also for enabling the precise collection of input coins and eliminating the need for burdensome paper supply maintenance by using the same type of paper for print seals with both seal print amusement and home page amusement. Moreover, fie image print amusement unit is also for enabling a manager of the amusement unit to monitor management data relating to sales and the use state for each type of amusement easily, in a short time, and without the intervention of human hands.

Still another object ofthe invention is to provide an image print amusement unit for enabling a manager of the amusement unit to easily and promptly monitor the use state of each of a plurality of frame image data pieces used to provide background images. Monitoring such information as management data will allow the use of such data for updating (i.e., version-up) of the image data so that amusement can be enhanced.

Yet another object of the invention is to provide a composite self-portrait preparation amusement unit terminal that can replace frame image data provided for self-portrait preparation efficiently, at low cost, and under remote control through a communication network. Especially in the case where a large number of terminals are distributed throughout the relevant region (e.g., Japan), this will contribute to improvement in the terminal availability.

A further object of the invention is to provide a composite self-portrait amusement unit terminal that can automatically replace frame image data while simultaneously supporting the functions of preparing a self-portrait and printing it without causing stopping of the operation of terminal in business. Still further, it is an object of the invention to provide a composite self-portrait preparation amusement unit server that can suitably select the appropriate frame image data to be used to replace the existing frame data for each terminal based on the frame image use state identified by the management data for each terminal.

Additional features and advantages of the invention will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the :nvention. The objectives and other advantages of the invention will be realized and attained by the structure particularly pointed out in the written description and claims hereof as well as the appended drawings.

To achieve these and other advantages and in accordance with the purpose of the present invention, as embodied and broadly described, the image print amusement unit for use by a player includes a pick-up for collecting a subject image desired by the player; a memory for storing frame image data; a display device for combining the frame image data and the collected subject image to form a resultant image and for displaying the resultant image on a screen; a home page preparation device for preparing an Internet home page based on the subject image collected by the image pick-up and the frame image data stored in the memory, the home page preparation device being connectable over at least one of a telephone line and a network line to a home page image server for opening the prepared home page to the Internet; and a recorder for printing the displayed image on a seal and for printing out at least a portion of the home page prepared by the home page preparation device on a seal, each of the seals being capable of being provided to the player.

According to the image print amusement unit thus constructed, either the seal print amusement or Internet home page amusement is selectable within the same unit. Furthermore, the home page formed by the image print amusement unit can be printed on a seal.

In another aspect, the image print amusement unit for use by a player includes a pick-up for collecting a subject image desired by the player; a memory for storing frame image data; a display device for combining the frame image data and the collected subject image to form a resultant image and for displaying the resultant image on a screen; a home page preparation device for preparing an Intemet home page based on the subject image collected by the image pick-up and the frame image Flata stored in the memory, the home page preparation device being connectable over at least one of a telephone line and a network line to a home page image server for opening the prepared home page to the Internet; a recorder for printing the displayed image on a seal and for printing out at least a portion ofthe home page prepared by the home page preparation device on a seal, each of the seals being capable of being provided to the player; and a management device, connectable to a management computer over the telephone line, for transmitting management data to the management computer, the management data comprising at least use data for a first amusement corresponding to the printing of the displayed image on a seal and for a second amusement corresponding to the printing of at least a portion of the home page on a seal.

In a further aspect, the image print amusement unit for use by a player includes a pick-up for collecting a subject image desired by the player; a memory for storing frame image data; a combining device for combining the frame image data and the collected subject image to form a resultant image, the combining device being connectable to an Internet server via a communication line; a display device for displaying the resultant image on a screen; a data transmitter for transmitting the resultant image as home page data to a home page file on the Internet server; and a recorder for printing the displayed image on a seal capable of being provided to the player and for printing out the home page data on a seal, wherein the data transmitter couples to the recorder.

In another aspect, the image print amusement unit for use by a player includes a pick-up for collecting a subject image desired by the player; a memory for storing frame image data; a combining device for combining the frame image data and the collected subject image to form a resultant image1 the combining device being connectable to an Internet server via a communication line; a display device for displaying the resultant image on a screen; a data transmitter for transmitting the resultant image as home page data to a home page file on the Internet server; a recorder for printing the displayed image on a seal capable of being provided to the player; and a computer, connecting to a management computer over a telephone line, for transmitting management data to the management computer, the computer comprising the memory, the combining device, and the data transmitter, and the management data comprising at least use data for a first amusement corresponding to the printing ofthe displayed image on a seal and for a second amusement corresponding to the transmitting ofthe resultant image as home page data to a home page file on the Internet server.

In a further aspect, a composite self-portrait preparation amusement unit terminal, operating responsive to currency input, for combining a photograph image desired by a player with a frame image specified by the player in order to form a self-portrait, and for printing out the self-portrait on a seal, includes a storage device for storing data on plural frame images; a selecting device for reading the frame image specified by the player from the storage device at a self-portrait formation time; and a communication device for receiving a signal instructing replacement of at least one of the plural frame images with at least one other frame image. The composite self-portrait preparation amusement unit terminal can replace frame image data provided for self-portrait preparation efficiently and at low cost under remote control through a communication network. Furthermore, the terminal can improve its operation efficiency by replacing less popular frame images with more popular frame images. Also, the terminal can rewrite frame image data at power-on in the morning and, therefore, it is not necessary to stop or interrupt the terminal at peak usage times.

In another aspect, a composite self-portrait preparation amusement server configured for coupling to a plurality of composite self-portrait preparation amusement unit terminals over a communication network includes a setting device for specifying at least one of a plurality of frame image data pieces for use in replacing at least one of a plurality of frame image data pieces stored on a specified one of the plurality of terminals; and a transmitter for transmitting the at least one replacement data piece to the specified terminal when that terminal accesses the server through the communication network. According to this aspect, it is easy to rewrite the frame image for each terminal.

In a further aspect, a composite self-portrait preparation amusement unit terminal, operating responsive to currency input1 for superimposing a photograph image desired by a player on a frame image specified by the player in order to form a self-portrait, and for printing out the self-portrait on a seal, includes a communication network access device for accessing a server from which replacement frame image data may be downloaded to the amusement unit terminal through a communication network; a download device for downloading replacement frame image data to the terminal if replacement frame image data addressed to the terminal exists on the server accessed by the communication network access device; and a storage device for storing different frame images in files as frame image data pieces, the unit terminal being configured such that at least one of the frame image data pieces stored in the storage device is replaced with at least one of the replacement frame image data downloaded by the download device. In accordance with this aspect, one or more frame image data pieces used for self-portrait preparation can be replaced with popular frame images easily and at low cost under remote control through the communication network for improving the terminal availability.

In another aspect, a composite self-portrait preparation amusement unit server configured for coupling to a plurality of composite self-portrait preparation amusement terminals over a communication network includes a setting device for specifying at least one of a plurality of frame mage data pieces for use in replacing at least one of a plurality of frame image data pieces stored on a specified one ofthe plurality ofterminals; and a download permission device for permitting separate access to the server by the terminals through the communication network and for downloading at least one ofthe frame image data pieces from the server to replace the at least one of the frame image data pieces stored on the specified one of the terminals.

In a further aspect, a composite self-portrait preparation amusement terminal, operating responsive to currency input, for combining a photograph image desired by a player with a frame image specified by the player in order to form a self-portrait, and for printing out the self-portrait on a seal, includes a storage device for storing data of a plurality of frame images; and a data renewal device for updating at least one frame image piece of the frame image data stored in the storage device in response to a signal from a communication network connecting to the terminal.

In another aspect, a composite self-portrait preparation amusement unit server configured for coupling to a plurality of composite self-portrait preparation amusement unit terminals over a communication network includes a setting device for specifying at least one of a plurality of frame image data pieces for use in replacing at least one of a plurality of frame image data pieces stored on one of the plurality of terminals which has been specified with an ID; and a transmitter for transmitting the at least one replacement data piece to the specified terminal when that terminal accesses the server through the communication network.

In yet another aspect, an image print amusement system includes a plurality of composite selfportrait preparation amusement unit terminals, each of the terminals for combining a photograph image desired by a player with a frame image specified by the player in order to form a self-portrait, and for printing out the self-portrait on a seal comprising a peel-off seal piece; and a server, located remote from at least one ofthe terminals and coupled to the terminals via a communication network, for periodically updating data on the terminals.

It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the invention as claimed.

The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

In the drawings: Fig. 1 is a block diagram of an overall system of an image print apparatus, including multiple image print amusement units, in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention; Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing an image print amusement unit; Fig. 3 is a flowchart illustrating operation of an image print amusement unit; Fig. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an operation performed by an image print apparatus when coins are input; Fig. 5 is a format chart of management data sent from an amusement unit; Figs. 6(a) and 6(b) are illustrations showing print seal examples for the seal print amusement and home page amusement (HOKAGO CLUB), respectively; Fig. 7 is a block diagram of an overall system of an image print apparatus, including multiple composite self-portrait preparation amusement units, according to a second embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 8 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a composite self-portrait preparation amusement unit terminal and related structure; Fig. 9 is a flowchart illustrating operation of a composite self-portrait preparation amusement unit; Fig. 10 is a flowchart illustrating operation of a management system; Fig. 11 is a format chart of management data sent from a composite self-portrait preparation amusement unit terminal; Figs. 12(a) and 12(b) are illustrations showing print seal examples for the stand-alone amusement machine and network amusement machine, respectively; Fig. 13 is an illustration showing arrangement of frame images displayed on a CRT; and Fig. 14 is an illustration showing arrangement of frame images displayed on a CRT after frame image data has been replaced.

Reference will now be made in detail to the preferred embodiments ofthe present invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

A first embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in Fig. 1. This figure shows an overall system of an image print apparatus including multiple image print units 1.

Each image print amusement unit 1 has both an amusement fiction of providing a seal on which an image desired by a player is printed for the player, as well as an amusement function of preparing a home page and printing out the home page (e.g., contents of the home page) on a seal.

The image print amusement unit 1 is connected to a network service 4 (such as a network service of Nippon Telegraph and Telephone corporation, otherwise known as NTT) via an access point 3 by an integrated services digital network (ISDN) 2. Further, a server 5 incorporating home page amusement images, for opening home pages to the Internet, is connected to the network service 4 and Internet 6.

A management computer 10 of an administrator 8 of the system is connected to the Internet 6 over a leased line 7 via a modem 9. The image print amusement unit 1 adds management data to image data and voice data and transmits such data to the server 5 of home page amusement images through the ISDN 2. The image server 5 of home page amusement separates the management data and transmits the management data to the management computer 10 through the Internet 6.

Fig. 2 is a block diagram of the an image print amusement unit 1 such as that shown in Fig.

1. The image print amusement unit 1 has a computer 12 for controlling the amusement fictions.

The computer 12 contains a memory (storage means) 31 for storing a control program, different frame image pieces as image backgrounds, and the like; combining means 32 for combining images; data transmitting means 33; and management data transmitting means 35, which will be described in further detail below. Connected to the computer 12 are a camera (image pick-up means) 13 for picking up a subject image desired by a player; a CRT (display means) 14 for displaying a composite image of the picked-up subject image, frame image data, and entered text information on a screen; a microphone (voice input means) 15 for inputting voice or other sound information; a loudspeaker 16 for voice or other sound output; a printer (recording means) 17 for color printing the image on a seal; and a coin counter 18 for determining the validity, denomination, and number of coins input by the player. As a replacement for the coin counter, as disclosed throughout this specification, a device for determining the validity, denomination, and amount of paper currency and/or coins input by the player may be utilized. A touch-panel screen (text information input means) for entering data of characters, etc. is displayed on CRT 14. The numeral 34 is a sound board. The combining means 32 comprises a video capture card. The text i

In this embodiment, the seal print amusement can be operated for a low charge (300 yen) and is selected by the player who operates a determination key after the amount of the input coins reaches the charge. The home page amusement can be operated for a high charge (500 yen) and is selected automatically when the amount of the input coins reaches the charge. Instructions are displayed on CRT 14 so that the player can easily input coins and select the desired amusement according to the instructions.

In the event the player selects the seal print amusement, he or she selects his or her favorite or desired frame at step #3. Further, a desired subject image is picked up by the camera 13 at step #4. Subsequently, the player enters a text at step &num;5. These steps can also be performed easily according to the instructions displayed on the CRT 14. Further, the composite image is printed out on a seal at step &num;6. The printing form on the seals discussed in greater detail below.

In the event the home page amusement is selected, the player similarly selects his or her favorite or desired frame for a home page at step &num;7. Further, a desired subject image is picked up by the camera 13 at step &num;8. Subsequently, the player enters a text of a name, a message, etc., at step &num;9, and uses the microphone 15 for recording the player's voice at step &num;10. Then, the picked up subject image with the selected frame image as the background and the entered text information are superimposed on each other to produce a composite image. A home page is prepared by using the composite image and voice information. The image is displayed on the CRT 14 and the voice can be heard through the loudspeaker 16. The home page data is transmitted to the server 5 and the home page is registered at step &num;11. Thereafter, the home page image is printed out on a seal at step &num;6. Thus, the Internet can be accessed and the home page is open to the public so that the home page can be printed out on a seal. As a result, the player can derive increased amusement from the machine.

Fig. 4 is a flowchart showing the operation performed when coins are input. The computer 12 ofthe amusement unit 1 checks whether or not the number of coins counted by the coin counter 18 has reached the lower charge amount (300 yen) to enable the player to operate the seal print amusement at step #21. The coin count and the remaining number of coins required for operating each amusement type are displayed on the screen ofthe CRT 14 until the amount ofthe input coins reaches 300 yen at steps #22 - &num;25. When the amount ofthe input coins reaches 300 yen at step #21, the seal print amusement is selected at step &num;27 by the player who touches the determination key displayed on the CRT 14 at step &num;26. If the number of coins counted reaches the higher amount (500 yen) to enable the player to operate the home page amusement at step &num;24, then the amusement is automatically selected at step &num;28. Since the selection operation is performed in this manner, the configuration of the system is simplified, the costs are reduced, and virtually anybody can easily select and enjoy the desired amusement without the need for burdensome operation.

Fig. 5 is a format chart of management data sent from the amusement unit 1. The amusement unit 1, which is connected to the server 5 via the telephone line and the network, adds management data to image data and voice data and transmits such data to the server 5, as described above. As an example, the amusement unit 1 may transmit the data at the beginning of the home page amusement at the time of communicating the home page amusement. The server 5 separates the management data from the received data and transfers the management data to the management computer through the Internet 6. The management computer 10 sequentially updates the received management data and appropriately performs necessary processing based on the management data.

For example, the management data includes information on the number of times the amusement unit has been operated, the sales volume for each available amusement type, and separate use data of the frame image data (such as the number oftimes each frame image has been selected, for example).

In the example shown in Fig. 5, the TRANSMISSION CODE is provided for the management computer 10 to recognize that the data is sent from the amusement unit 1; the TERMINAL ID is the unit number code ofthe corresponding amusement unit; the DATA NO. is provided for the purpose of preventing data skip; the STATUS and the ERROR CODE are transmission status and error status; the VERSION NO. is the program number; the CURRENT NUMBER OF 100-YEN COINS IN BOX and the CURRENT NUMBER OF 500-YEN COINS IN BOX are reset each time the coin box is opened; and the PREVIOUS NUMBER OF 100-YEN COINS IN BOX and the PREVIOUS NUMBER OF 500-YEN COINS IN BOX are cumulative total values. The NUMBER OF SERVICE TIMES (HOKAGO or SEAL) is the number of times the unit has been operated at no charge when the unit was in an abnormal condition; the ALARM TIME and the NUMBER OF ALARMS are applied to a paper-out condition, etc.; and the CURRENT FRAME and the PAST FRAME are separate use data ofthe frame image data. The management data transmitting means 35 transmits the management data to the management computer 10 via telephone line. The data transmitting means 33 may serve as the management data transmitting means.

The data transmission in the first embodiment can be used to provide the number of times the amusement unit has been operated, the sales volume for each amusement type, and separate use data ofthe frame image data, easily and in a short time. This will facilitate business policy pertaining to the amusement unit and other related considerations. When the amusement unit is connected to the Internet, the management data is transmitted together with the image data. Thus, the need for separately transmitting the management data is eliminated. Since the data indicating the use state of a plurality of frame image data pieces utilized as background images can be provided promptly, the customer's tastes can be known in a timely fashion and good use of the information on the customer's tastes can be made in canying out version-up, renewal, and the like, ofthe image data.

In this manner, the overall amusement provided by the unit can be enhanced. Also, whenever the coin box is opened, the coin count data is transmitted so that the sales volume data can be accurately monitored. As a result of this feature, the possibility of illegal acts is reduced and the coins can be collected precisely. The image data can be upgraded to a higher version through the network service 4 and the telephone line 2.

Figs. 6(a) and 6(b) are illustrations showing print seal examples in the seal print amusement and home page amusement, respectively. For seal.21, the same type of paper is used both for the seal paper used with the seal print amusement and the seal paper on which home page information (e.g., a home page) is printed in the home page amusement. The seal pieces 22 are formed by cutting through the upper layer ofthe seal paper. The number of peel-off seal pieces 22 for the home page amusement seal is fewer than the number of peel-off seal pieces 22 of the print seal. In this respect, a blank portion is provided on the home page amusement seal for recording a player-entered message 23, home page address, ID, password, etc., 24, and a comment 25. One type of seal paper is thus used for both the seal print and home page types of amusement, thereby facilitating paper replenishment and other maintenance. Specifically, the same paper material is used, but with two different formats, one (for home page amusement) having fewer peel-off seal pieces than the other (for seal print amusement).

The present invention is not limited to the configuration ofthe first embodiment and various modifications are possible. For example, although an embodiment for transmitting the management data together with Internet image data has been shown, the management data may be transmitted separately from the image data Also, the player may be enabled to select the desired number of seal prints, in which case a configuration of increasing the charge in response to the desired number of seal prints may be adopted. It is also desirable and envisioned to have the amusement apparatus incorporate a device for facilitating this type of selection operation.

Thus, in accordance with the first embodiment ofthe invention, a player can selectively enjoy multiple types of amusement at a single amusement unit. Namely, these types of amusement include the seal print amusement in which a print seal including a designated image is provided to the player, and the home page amusement in which a home page including the same image as discussed above is formed and transmitted to prepare the home page on the Internet. In the latter type of amusement, the home page not only opens to the Internet, but also the amusement unit prints out home page data or information (e.g., the home page) on a seal, therefore enhancing the amusement of the player. It is especially more pleasurable to enjoy home page amusement by accessing the Internet and then printing out information of or from the home page on a seal.

Also, in accordance with the first embodiment ofthe invention, an image print amusement unit enables selection between multiple amusements by merely either the act of inputting coins or the act of inputting coins coupled with a single key operation. In this manner, construction of the selection process is simplified and becomes less costly, thereby providing easily enjoyable designated amusement functions.

In further accordance with the first embodiment of the invention, one type of paper can be used for both the seal ofthe image seal print amusement and the home page seal of the Internet home page amusement. This provides for advantages such as elimination of the need for burdensome maintenance.

Moreover, according to the first embodiment of the invention, since the number of times the amusement unit has been operated and the sales volume for each amusement type and separate use data of frame image data are transmitted to the management computer as management data, management data can be provided easily and within a short time. Also, when the amusement unit is connected to the Internet, the management data may be transmitted together with the image data, so that the need for separately transmitting the management data is eliminated.

In still further accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention, the data indicating the use state of a plurality of frame image data pieces utilized as background images can be provided easily and promptly as management data. In this way, the data can be put to good use for version-up and the like of the image data, thereby enhancing the amusement provided.

Moreover, whenever the coin box is opened, the coin count data at that point in time is transmitted to decrease the likelihood of illegal acts and to ensure precise collection of the money received.

Fig. 7 is a block diagram of an overall system of composite self-portrait preparation amusement units in accordance with a second embodiment ofthe invention. In describing the second embodiment, the same reference numerals as those used for the first embodiment will be used for the same or analogous elements.

In Fig. 7, each terminal 1 ofthe composite self-portrait preparation amusement system begins operation when coins are input. Each terminal 1 has both an amusement function of combining (for instance, superimposing) a photographed image desired by a player on a frame image specified by the player to prepare a self-portrait (image) and providing a seal on which the self-portrait (image) is printed out for the player; and an amusement function of preparing a home page based on data containing the self-portrait, registering the home page, and printing out the home page on a seal.

The former amusement function will be referred to herein as stand-alone amusement and the latter amusement will be referred to herein as network amusement.

A large number of composite self-portrait preparation amusement unit terminals 1 are installed in some or all parts of a geographic region (e.g., Japan) and can be connected to the Internet 6 through access points (AP) 3 by an integrated services digital network (ISDN) 2. Network servers 5 for opening home pages to the public are connected to the Internet 6. The network servers 5 are alternatively referred to herein as network amusement servers or HOKAGO servers.

A management server 9 and a management computer 10 of a management system 8 of the system are connected to the Internet 6 over a leased line 7 and further to a business processing computer 11 ofthe management system by an in-house LAN (local area network). The composite self-portrait preparation amusement unit terminal 1 adds management data to image data, voice data, and text data, which will be hereinafter collectively called self-portrait data, and transmits such data to the network server 5 through the ISDN 2. The network server 5 separates the management data, and transmits the management data thus separated to the management server 9 and the business processing computer 11 through the leased line 7. The management computer 10 monitors and manages the sales, the number of use times, the operation, the number of times each frame has been Based, the amount in each machine, and the like. The business processing computer 11 monitors and manages money collection, billing, and the like. A customer monitor system 12 is connected to the management system 8 over another leased line 7. The customer monitor system 12 comprises an Internet reception server 12a and a monitor computer 12b connected by a LAN for displaying a paper-out condition in each terminal and various operation modes.

Fig. 8 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the composite self-portrait preparation amusement unit terminal 1. The composite self-portrait preparation amusement unit terminal 1 has a computer 20 for controlling the amusement fUnctions. The computer 20 contains a hard disk drive 20a (storage means) for storing a control program, files of different frame image pieces as image backgrounds, and the like. Connected to the computer 20 are a camera (image pick-up means) 13 for picking up a subject image desired by a player; a CRT (display means) 14 for displaying a composite self-portrait (image) of the picked-up subject image, the player-specified frame image data, and the player-entered text information on a screen; a microphone (voice input means) 15 for inputting voice or other sound information; a loudspeaker (voice output means) 16 for voice output; a printer (recording means) 17 for color printing the image on a seal; a coin counter 18 for determining the validity, denomination, and number of coins input by the player; and key input means (text information input means) 26 for the player to enter text information and to select a frame image.

Data of characters, etc., may be entered on a screen or touch panel displayed or installed on the CRT 14 in place ofthe key input means 26.

The computer 20 incorporates both the stand-alone amusement function of only printing a portrait on a seal and the network amusement function of preparing an Intemet home page, registering the home page on the Intemet, and printing home page information (e.g., the home page) jn a seal. The camera 13, the CRT 14, the printer 17, the key input means 26, and the like are used for both ofthe amusement functions. That is, a seal print self-portrait (image) is prepared based on the subject image picked up by the camera 13 (typically a photograph of the upper part of the body ofthe player) and the frame image data specified and text data entered by the player through the key input means 26. Further, voice data is entered by the player with a microphone 15 to prepare self portrait data. The prepared self-portrait data is transmitted to the network server 5 through a terminal adaptor (TA) 19, the communication line 2 containing a digital telephone line, and the Internet 6 for preparing home page self-portrait data The prepared seal print self-portrait and home page self-portrait are printed out on seals on the printer 17.

Next, the network amusement operation ofthe composite self-portrait preparation amusement unit system thus configured, particularly, a frame image data replacement method of each composite self-portrait preparation amusement unit terminal 1, will be discussed. Generally, the terminal 1 is powered on by a manager at the same time as business is opened in the morning. At this time, the number of customers are few and if another program to rewrite data is started, it is recognized as a "preparation job." Using this time, the following various data pieces are transferred between the server 5 and the corresponding terminal 1.

(1) New frame image data: From server to terminal; (2) New program: From server to terminal; (3) Data that cannot be transferred for some reason during a preceding operation: From terminal to server; (4) Sales information provided by the time the power was turned off at a preceding time: From terminal to server, (5) Initial operation information: From terminal to server; and the like.

A facility having a part or all of the functions of the network server 5 and the management server 9 will be collectively referred to herein as the server.

To transfer data, the terminals 1 are assigned identification numbers (terminal IDs) for executing communication. The identification numbers are different from Internet IDs, etc., and represent "locations and functions" from the viewpoint of business. In the system, the identification numbers, called terminal IDs, are previously registered in the management server 9 and the management computer 10.

The operation containing frame image data replacement after the terminal 1 is powered on will be discussed with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 9. In Fig. 9, when the power is turned on at step S1, the terminal 1 starts a transfer program (file management) at step S2, whereby the terminal 1 is connected to the network server 5 through the Internet 6. First, if a file whose transmission resulted in a failure at a preceding time (e.g., the last time the power was on) exists at step S3, the terminal 1 transmits the file to the network server 5 at steps S4, S21, S22, and S32. Then, the terminal 1 is connected to a downloaddedicated directory ofthe management server 9 by the transfer program at step S5 and opens an index file of the directory to check whether or not update data destined for the terminal (frame image data or program to replace) exists at step S6. If there is update data destined for the terminal at step S33, the terminal 1 downloads the data at step S7. The function of opening the index file to check whether update data destined for the terminal exists and downloading the data is called the download permission function. The terminal 1 automatically develops the downloaded data at step S8, then automatically starts up network amusement machine (main unit) software at step S9. After this, the terminal 1 enters a normal network amusement machine operation mode. For example, blinking and the like is executed on the CRT 14 only in a predetermined period for informing the player that the downloaded and stored frame image data destined for the terminal 1 is a new frame image replacing the old one when the amusement machine is used. If the user prepares self-portrait data at step S10, the terminal 1 checks whether or not management data occurs at step S11. If no management data occurs, the terminal 1 uploads the selfportrait data to the network serverS at steps S12, S23, and S24. If management data occurs, the terminal 1 uploads the self-portrait data and the management data to the network server 5 at steps S13, S34, S35, and S43.

Next, the operation for issuing a frame image data replacement instruction in the management system 8 will be discussed with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 10. This flowchart corresponds to step S41 (prepare for update data), step S42, S3.1 (transmit update data), etc., from Fig. 9. In accordance with the flowchart of at least Fig. 10, the management system 8 receives management data (corresponding to S51, S43) and totalizes or determines frame image popularity from the management data at step S52, and the manager analyzes the use state and determines whether or not frame image replacement is to be executed. To allow the player to select a frame image, when frame images are displayed on the CRT 14, nine frame images fl, f2,f3,..., f9 are displayed on one screen, as shown in Fig. 13. By analyzing the management data in the management system, for example, an instruction for replacing only a specific frame image of the nine frame images, namely, rewriting only a specific frame image data piece can be given. Thus, for example, if a certain frame image tends to be not so popular, it can be replaced. If a frame image replacement instruction is given at step S53, a replacement frame image (normally, not all frame images are replaced at a time but instead one or more frame images are normally replaced based on the management data as described above) is provided, an index file for specifying the terminal ID of the terminal where frame image data replacement is to be executed is created, and a control program for transferring the frame image data to a predetermined storage location ofthe terminal is prepared at step S54. The data is transmitted to a predetermined storage location ofthe management server 9 at step S55.

One or more frame images may be replaced based on the location of each composite selfportrait preparation amusement unit terminal rather than the management data as described above so that the frame images of a specific terminal are provided with local atmosphere and a sense of the current season. For example, old temple and shrine frame images are increased for the terminals installed in Kyoto (a city having many shrines and temples) and sea and surfing frame images are increased for the terminals 1 installed in Okinawa (an island city).

Alternatively, the availability for each frametimage is totalized or otherwise determined and popularity is ranked in each terminal 1. When the power is tumed on, the data containing the ranking data is transmitted to the server. When receiving the data, the server may automatically replace some frame images ranked as having low popularity as compared with other more popular provided frame images.

Thus, when the terminals (network amusement machines) located in all parts of the relevant geographic region (e.g., Japan) are powered on at random, namely, at a time not affecting business, each terminal automatically performs the above-described operation for reliably rewriting the frame image data and programs. According to the system, the terminal 1 downloads data. Thus, as compared with a normal polling system, the transmitting party does not require any transmission program and if the number ofterminals increases, transfer can be executed in a short time. Further, the management system or center need not consider when the power of each terminal is turned on, and need not know the telephone numbers ofthe terminals either. If the Internet is accessed from a number of terminals at a time, no problem occurs in principle. The terminals are placed on bustling streets, in station yards, etc., in all parts of the region of interest (e.g., Japan) and the operation time varies from one terminal to another. The setup described above is particularly useful because the management system (center) could not possibly poll all of the terminals for data transfer.

Fig. 11 is a format chart of management data sent from the composite self-portrait preparation amusement unit terminal 1. The terminal 1, which is connected to the network server 5 via the communication line and the Internet 6, adds management data to image data, voice data, and text data (self-portrait data) and transmits such data to the server 5, as described above. The data is transmitted at the network amusement machine start time or at the network amusement machine communication time. The network server 5 separates the management data from the received data, and transfers the management data through the leased line 7 to the management server 9 from which the management data is transferred to the management computer 10 and the business processing computer 11. The computers 10 and 11 both update the received management data sequentially and appropriately perform necessary processing based on the management data. For example, the management data includes the number of times the terminal has been operated, the sales volume for each amusement type, and individual use data of frame image data.

In the example shown in Fig. 11, the TRANSMISSION CODE is provided for the management computer 10 to recognize that the data is sent from the terminal 1; the TERMINAL ID is the terminal number code ofthe corresponding terminal; the DATA NO. is provided for preventing data skip; the STATUS and the ERROR CODE are transmission status and error status; the VERSION NO. is the program number; the CURRENT NUMBER OF 100-YEN COINS IN BOX and the CURRENT NUMBER OF 500-YEN COINS IN BOX are reset each time the coin box is opened; and the PREVIOUS NUMBER OF 100-YEN COINS IN BOX and the PREVIOUS NUMBERS OF 500-YEN COINS IN BOX are cumulative total values. The NUMBER OF SERVICE TIMES (HOME PAGE, SEAL) is the number of times the terminal has been operated at no charge when the unit was in an abnormal condition; the ALARM TIME and the NUMBER OF ALARMS are applied to a paper-out condition, etc.; and the CURRENT FRAME and the PAST FRAME are individual use data of frame image data.

The management data in the second embodiment can be used to provide information identifying the number oftimes the terminal has been operated, the sales volume for each amusement type, and individual use data of frame image data, easily and in a short time. This facilitates the formulation and execution ofbusiness policy pertaining to the amusement system. When the terminal is connected to the Internet, the management data is transmitted together with the image data. Thus, the need for separately transmitting the management data is eliminated. Since the data indicating the use state of a plurality of frame image data pieces as background images can be provided promptly, the customer's tastes can be known in a timely fashion and information on the customer's tastes can be put to good use for upgrading the frame image data to a higher version, thereby enhancing the overall amusement provided by the system. For example, it can be known that the center frame image f5 and the lower-right frame image f9 in Fig. 13 were selected 100 times and 10 times, respectively, by players on one day.

Whenever the coin box is opened, the coin count data is transmitted so that the sales volume data can be accurately monitored. Therefore, the possibility of illegal acts is reduced and the coins can be collected precisely.

Further details on the frame image data replacement method of the second embodiment will now be discussed.

Each terminal 1 ofthe second embodiment contains the hard disk drive 20a (Fig.8) for storing 27 (twenty seven) frame image data pieces fl, f5, f3, ..., f27, for example. During the amusement operation, nine frames are read in a package at a time and displayed on the CRT 14, as shown in Fig.

13. The frame package to be displayed can be selected by the player who appropriately operates the key input means 26.

That is, the frame images fl, 2, ..., f9 as a first package P1 are stored as a file on the disk 20a; the frame images flO, fll, ..., fl8 as a second package P2 are stored as another file; and the frame images fl9, f20 ..., f27 as a third package P3 are stored as still another file. The frame image data pieces fl, f2, ..., 127 are assigned absolute serial numbers. For example, when the frame image f5 of one terminal 1 is less popular and is replaced with a new frame image 130 in response to the popularity of each frame image monitored by the management system as described above (determined by the number oftimes each frame image has been used or the like, for example), a complete data set of the frame image data pieces fl, f2, ss, f4, ss0, f6, f7, f8, and f9 is prepared as the package P1 at the update data S33 preparation time and downloaded into the terminal 1 at step S7, then overwritten on the file stored as the current package P1 on the hard disk 20a. Namely, one package is replaced with another package in the embodiment Of course, in addition to the example given above, to replace a plurality of frame images like fl, ss, and f9, for example, a package P1 with the frame image data pieces corresponding to fl, ss, and fg replaced with new frame images ss0, 131, and 132 may be prepared and downloaded into a predetermined terminal 1.

The transfer destination of the prepared package is specified by preparing a control program as described above and, in the example, by specifying the terminal ID and the package number (first, second, or third package).

Therefore, in the description, the numbers assigned to the frame images (fl, f2, ss, ...) are numbers specifying the data pieces and the numbers assigned to the packages (P1, P2, and P3) are the file numbers on the hard disk 20a.

Next, another configuration of a frame image data replacement method will be discussed.

That is, although the frame image data is replaced in package units in the above-described second embodiment, in another configuration the data can also be replaced in frame image units. To do this, the package numbers in the above-described second embodiment may be replaced with the data frame numbers corresponding to the total of the frame image data pieces to be stored on the hard disk 20a (in this case, 27).

The 27 frame image data pieces are stored on the hard disk 20a as described above. More particularly, the frame image data pieces are stored in order on the disk 20a according to frame numbers. Thus, if one of the frame numbers is specified, specific frame image data corresponding to the specified frame number can be replaced in frame image units.

For example, assume that the frame image data f5 at the center of the CRT screen 14 in Fig.

13 is frame number 5. To replace the frame image f5 with new frame image f30, only the new frame image 30 data is provided as the update data S33 and the terminal ID of the terminal and the frame number 5 are specified as the control program (S54). Then, when frame image data is transmitted at step S55, the frame image data f5 with the frame number 5 on the hard disk 20a is replaced with the frame image data f30. If this is viewed on the CRT screen 14, the frame image at the center of the screen in Fig. 13 is changed to different frame image ss0, resulting in the screen shown in Fig.

14.

To smooth the frame image data replacement process, the individual use data of frame image data in the management data previously described with reference to the second embodiment of Fig.

11 contains information specifying the frame image data in each terminal 1.

That is, in the formerly described second embodiment, the information provides the series number ofthe frame image data (for example, fl) and the package number of the package containing the frame image data (fl) (P1, P2, or P3). In the latter embodiment, on the other hand, the information provides the series number of the frame image data (for example, fl) and the frame number of the frame image data (fl) on hard disk 20a in the terminal 1.

Therefore, each terminal 1 comprises means for preparing the information for specifying each frame image data piece in the terminal as described above and transmitting the information together with the management data as well as the means for transmitting the management data described above.

Figs. 12(a) and 12(b) are illustrations to show print seal examples in the stand-alone amusement and the network amusement, respectively. As a seal 21, the same type of paper is used both for the seal paper used with the stand-alone amusement and for the seal paper on which a home page is printed in the network amusement. The number of peel-off seal pieces 22 for the home page print seal is fewer than the number of peel-off seal pieces 22 of the print seal, so that a blank portion is provided on the horne page print seal for recording a player-entered message 23, home page address, ID, password, etc., 24, and a comment 25.

The The invention is not limited to the configurations of the second or any other disclosed embodiments, and various modifications are envisioned. For example, the terminal 1 of at least the second embodiment has both the amusement function of providing a seal on which a self-portrait (image) is printed for the player and the amusement function of registering a home page prepared based on the data containing the self-portrait and printing out the home page on a seal (network amusement machine). However, the terminal may have only the latter network amusement machine function Moreover, such a terminal may be any terminal adopting the system of at least accessing the server at any timing not interfering with business from the terminal and downloading the frame image data preset in the server or any other data through a communication network under remote control. The communication network may be not only the Internet, but also could be a network using a leased line.

Thus, according to at least the second embodiment of the invention, one or more frame image data pieces used for self-portrait preparation for each terminal can be easily replaced with different frame image data through the communication network. Therefore, less popular frame images can be replaced with new frame images for improving the availability of the terminal and for increasing the options available to the player as well as profits. If a large number of terminals are distributed in all parts of a certain geographic area (e.g., Japan), frame image data can be replaced efficiently at low cost under remote control. When the terminal is powered on, frame image data can be downloaded automatically and the terminal need not be stopped during the operation so that the availability of the terminal is not adversely affected. The frame image data of each terminal can be replaced based on the frame image use state for each terminal. Furthermore, the self-portrait can be recorded on a home page of the server.

Also, according to at least the second embodiment of the invention, replacement of one or more frame image data pieces can be set at the server for each terminal separately, frame image data replacement can be set at the server in a timely fashion in response to the availability of frame images for each terminal or in accordance with local color or the season of the year, and each terminal can access the server for easily replacing one or more frame image data pieces.

In further accordance with at least the second embodiment of the present invention, the system can be configured so that the message that new downloaded frame image data includes anew frame image replacing an old frame image may be displayed only in a predetermined period when the terminal is used, thereby informing the player of that fact.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the image print amusement apparatus of the present invention without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Thus, it is intended that the present invention cover the modifications and variations of this invention to the extent they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

r CLAIMS

1. An image print amusement unit for use by a player comprising: a pick-up for collecting a subject image desired by the player; a memory for storing frame image data; a display device for combining the frame image data and the collected subject image to form a resultant image and for displaying the resultant image on a screen; a home page preparation device for preparing an Intemet home page based on the subject image collected by the image pick-up and the frame image data stored in the memory, the home page preparation device being connectable over at least one of a telephone line and a network line to a home page image server for opening the prepared home page to the Internet; and a recorder for printing the displayed image on a seal and for printing out at least a portion of the home page prepared by the home page preparation device on a seal, each of the seals being capable of being provided to the player.

2. The image print amusement unit of claim 1, further comprising a voice input device allowing the home page preparation device to input at least voice information as data at the time of home page preparation.

3. The image print amusement unit of claim 1, further comprising a text information input device allowing the home page preparation device to input at least character information as data at the time of home page preparation.

4. The image print amusement unit of claim 1, further comprising a currency counter for counting at least a predetermined lower amount of currency and a predetermined higher amount of currency, the image print amusement unit selecting a first amusement function having a lower charge when the player activates a determination key after the currency counter determines the predetermined lower amount of currency has been input and for automatically selecting a second amusement function having a higher charge when the currency counter determines that the predetermined higher amount of currency has been input.

5. The image print amusement unit of claim 4, wherein the display device indicates on screen how much additional currency is required in order to activate the first and second amusement functions based on how much currency has already been input as determined by the currency counter.

6. The image print amusement unit of claim 1, wherein the image print amusement unit uses the same type of seal paper for the seal on which the displayed image is printed and the seal on which at least a portion of the home page is printed.

7. The image print amusement unit of claim 1, wherein the image print amusement unit uses the same type of seal paper for the seal on which the displayed image is printed and the seal on which at least a portion of the home page is printed, wherein each of the seals comprises a peel-off seal piece, and wherein the seal paper for printing of at least a portion ofthe home page has fewer peel-off seal pieces than the seal paper for printing of the displayed image such that a blank portion is provided on the home page seal paper for recording at least one of a home page address, an ID, and a password.

8. An image print amusement unit for use by a player comprising: a pick-up for collecting a subject image desired by the player; a memory for storing frame image data; a display device for combining the frame image data and the collected subject image to form a resultant image and for displaying the resultant image on a screen; a home page preparation device for preparing an Internet home page based on the subject image collected by the image pick-up and the frame image data stored in the memory, the home page preparation device being connectable over at least.-one of a telephone line and a network line to a home page image server for opening the prepared home page to the Internet; a recorder for printing the displayed image on a seal and for printing out at least a portion of the home page prepared by the home page preparation device on a seal, each of the seals being capable of being provided to the player; and a management device, connectable to a management computer over the telephone line, for transmitting management data to the management computer, the management data comprising at least use data for a first amusement corresponding to the printing of the displayed image on a seal and for a second amusement corresponding to the printing of at least a portion of the home page on a seal.

9. The image print amusement unit of claim 8, wherein the use data comprises at least one of information on the number of times the unit has been operated, sales volume information, and information on the number of times various of the frame image data have been utilized for that unit.

10. The image print amusement unit of claim 8, further comprising a voice input device allowing the home page preparation device to input at least voice information as data at the time of home page preparation.

11. The image print amusement unit of claim 8, further comprising a text information input device allowing the home page preparation device to input at least character information as data at the time of home page preparation.

12. The image print amusement unit of claim 8, wherein the management data is transmitted from the unit together with image data and is configured for separation from the image data and transfer to the management computer via the Internet.

13. The image print amusement unit of claim 8, wherein the image print amusement unit is configured such that the frame image data stored in the memory is at least one of upgradeable to a higher version and renewable whenever necessary, and wherein the use data comprises data on current frame image data and past frame image data.

14. The image print amusement unit of claim 8, wherein the unit includes a currency counter for counting how much currency has been input to a currency storage area of the unit; wherein count data of the currency counter is reset each time the currency storage area is opened; wherein sales volume data in the management data is transmitted from the unit each time the count data for that unit is reset; and wherein data after a most recent reset is treated as current data and is transmitted together with cumulative total data.

15. The image print amusement unit of claim 8, wherein the image print amusement unit uses the same type of seal paper for the seal on which the displayed. image is printed and the seal on which at least a portion of the home page is printed.

16. The image print amusement unit of claim 8, wherein the image print amusement system uses the same type of seal paper for the seal on which the displayed image is printed and the seal on which at least a portion of the home page is printed, wherein each of the seals comprises a peel-off seal piece, and wherein the seal paper for printing of at least a portion of the home page has fewer peel-off seal pieces than the seal paper for printing ofthe displayed image such that a blank portion is provided on the home page seal paper for recording at least one of a home page address, an ID, and a password.

17. An image print amusement unit for use by a player comprising: a pick-up for collecting a subject image desired by the player; a memory for storing frame image data; a combining device for combining the frame image data and the collected subject image to form a resultant image, the combining device being connectable to an Internet server via a communication line; a display device for displaying the resultant image on a screen; a data transmitter for transmitting the resultant image as home page data to a home page file on the Internet server; and a recorder for printing the displayed image on a seal capable of being provided to the player and for printing out the home page data on a seal, wherein the data transmitter couples to the recorder.

18. The image print amusement unit of claim 17, further comprising a voice input device connecting to the data transmitter, wherein the image print amusement unit outputs voice information entered with the voice input device as part of the home page data.

19. The image print amusement unit of claim 17, further comprising a text information input device connecting to the data transmitter, wherein the image print amusement unit outputs character information input with the text information input device as part of the home page data.

20. The image print amusement unit of claim 17, further comprising a currency counter for counting at least a predetermined lower amount of currency and a predetermined higher amount of currency, the image print amusement unit selecting a first amusement function having a lower charge when the player activates a determination key after the currency counter determines the predetermined lower amount of currency has been input and for automatically selecting a second amusement function having a higher charge when the currency counter determines that the predetermined higher amount of currency has been input.

21. The image print amusement unit of claim 19, wherein the display device indicates on screen how much additional currency is required in order to activate the first and second amusement functions based on how much currency the currency counter determines has already been input.

22. The image print amusement unit of claim 17, wherein the image print amusement unit system uses the same type of seal paper for the seal on which the displayed image is printed and the seal on which at least a portion of the home page is printed.

23. The image print amusement unit of claim 17, wherein the image print amusement unit uses the same type of seal paper for the seal on which the displayed image is printed and the seal on which at least a portion of the home page is printed, wherein each of the seals comprises a peel-off seal piece, and wherein the seal paper for printing of at least a portion ofthe home page has fewer peel-off seal pieces than the seal paper for printing of the displayed image such that a blank portion is provided on the home page seal paper for recording at least one of a home page address, an ID, and a password.

24. An image print amusement unit for use by a player comprising: a pick-up for collecting a subject image desired by the player; a memory for storing frame image data; a combining device for combining the frame image data and the collected subject image to form a resultant image, the combining device being connectable to an Internet server via a communication line; a display device for displaying the resultant image on a screen; a data transmitter for transmitting the resultant image as home page data to a home page file on the Internet server; a recorder for printing the displayed image on a seal capable of being provided to the player; and a computer, connecting to a management computer over a telephone line, for transmitting management data to the management computer, the computer comprising the memory, the combining device, and the data transmitter, and the management data comprising at least use data for a first amusement corresponding to the printing of the displayed image on a seal and for a second amusement corresponding to the transmitting of the resultant image as home page data to a home page file on the Internet server.

25. The image print amusement unit of claim 24, wherein the use data comprises at least one of information on the number of times the unit has been operated, sales volume information, and information on the number of times various of the frame image data have been utilized for that unit.

26. The image print amusement unit of claim 24, further comprising a voice input device connecting to the data transmitter, wherein the image print amusement unit outputs voice information entered with the voice input device as part of the home page data.

27. The image print amusement unit of claim 24, further comprising a text information input device connecting to the data transmitter, wherein the image print amusement unit outputs character information input with the text information input device as part of the home page data.

28. The image print amusement unit of claim 24, wherein the unit is coupled to the Internet, and the management data is transmitted from the unit together with image data and is configured for separation from the image data and transfer to the management computer via the Internet.

29. The image print amusement unit of claim 24, wherein the image print amusement unit is configured such that the frame image data stored in the memory is at least one of upgradeable to a higher version and renewable whenever necessary, and wherein the use data comprises data on current frame image data and past frame image data.

30. The image print amusement unit of claim 25, further comprising a currency counter and a currency storage area; wherein count data of the currency counter is reset each time the currency storage area is opened; wherein sales volume data in the management data is transmitted from the unit each time the count data for that unit is reset; and wherein data after a most recent reset is treated as current data and is transmitted together with cumulative total data.

31. The image print amusement unit of claim 24, wherein the image print amusement unit uses the same type of seal paper for the seal on which the displayed image is printed and a seal on which at least a portion of the home page data is printed.

32. A composite self-portrait preparation amusement unit terminal, operating responsive to currency input, for combining a photograph image desired by a player with a frame image specified by the player in order to form a self-portrait, and for printing out the self-portrait on a seal, the unit terminal comprising: a storage device for storing data on plural frame images; a selecting device for reading the frame image specified by the player from the storage device at a self-portrait formation time; and a communication device for receiving a signal instructing replacement of at least one of the plural frame images with at least one other frame image.

33. The amusement unit terminal of claim 32, wherein the terminal is configured to access, through a communication network, a server on which replacement frame image data is stored, and to download frame image data to the terminal from the server if frame images addressed to that terminal exist on the server.

34. The amusement unit terminal of claim 33, wherein the terminal is configured to download the frame image data addressed to that terminal upon powering on of the terminal.

35. The amusement unit terminal of claim 33, wherein the terminal is configured to transmit management data indicating an operation state ofthe terminal to a management system for performing terminal operation management at a specified time.

36. The amusement unit terminal of claim 32, wherein the terminal is configured to register the self-portrait image as a home page through a communication network.

37. A composite self-portrait preparation amusement unit server configured for coupling to a plurality of composite self-portrait preparation amusement unit terminals over a communication network, the server comprising: a setting device for specifying at least one of a plurality of frame image data pieces for use in replacing at least one of a plurality of frame image data pieces stored on a specified one of the plurality of terminals; and a transmitter for transmitting the at least one replacement data piece to the specified terminal when that terminal accesses the server through the communication network.

38. The amusement unit server of claim 37, wherein the server is configured such that the at least one replacement frame image data piece of the frame image data is specified by the setting device in accordance with management data transmitted from at least one of the terminals to a management system so that the frame image data pieces for each terminal are selected in proportion to popularity.

39. A composite self-portrait preparation amusement unit terminal, operating responsive to currency input, for superimposing a photograph image desired by a player on a frame image specified by the player in order to form a self-portrait, and for printing out the self-portrait on a seal, the unit terminal comprising: a communication network access device for accessing a server from which replacement frame image data may be downloaded to the amusement unit terminal through a communication network; a download device for downloading replacement frame image data to the terminal if replacement frame image data addressed to the terminal exists on the server accessed by the communication network access device; and a storage device for storing different frame images in files as frame image data pieces, the unit terminal being configured such that at least one of the frame image data pieces stored in the storage device is replaced with at least one ofthe replacement frame image data downloaded by the download device.

40. The amusement unit terminal of claim 39, further comprising a display control device for displaying a message indicating that the replacement frame image data addressed to the terminal, downloaded by the download device, and stored in the storage device, comprises at least one new frame image replacing at least one old frame image, the display control device only displaying the message to the player in a predetermined period occurring during use of the terminal.

41. The amusement unit terminal of claim 39, wherein the download device downloads the frame image data addressed to the terminal upon powering on of the terminal.

42. The amusement unit terminal of claim 39, further comprising a management data transmitter for transmitting management data indicating an operation state of the terminal to a management system for performing terminal operation management through a communication network during a time when the terminal is operated.

43. A composite self-portrait preparation amusement unit server configured for coupling to a plurality of composite self-portrait preparation amusement terminals over a communication network, the server comprising: a setting device for specifying at least one of a plurality of frame image data pieces for use in replacing at least one of a plurality of frame image data pieces stored on a specified one of the plurality ofterminals; and a download permission device for permitting separate access to the server by the terminals through the communication network and for downloading at least one of the frame image data pieces from the server to replace the at least one of the frame image data pieces stored on the specified one of the terminals.

44. The amusement unit server of claim 43, wherein the setting device specifies the replacement frame image data pieces based on management data, indicating an operation state of each composite self-portrait preparation amusement unit terminal, transmitted from the terminal to a management system so that different frame images are made available in response to popularity of frame images at the terminal.

45. The amusement unit server of claim 43, wherein the setting device specifies the replacement frame image data pieces based on at least locations of the composite self-image preparation amusement unit terminals so that frame images at specific ones of the terminals are provided in accordance with at least one of local atmosphere and a sense of the current season.

46. A composite self-portrait preparation amusement unit terminal, operating responsive to currency input, for combining a photograph image desired by a player with a frame image desired by a player with a frame image specified by the player in order to form a self-portrait, and for printing out the self-portrait on a seal, the unit terminal comprising: a storage device for storing data of a plurality of frame images; and a data renewal device for updating at least one frame image piece of the frame image data stored in the storage device in response to a signal from a communication network connecting to the terminal.

47. The amusement unit terminal of claim 46, further comprising: a communication device for communicating with a server on which replacement frame image data is provided; a determination device for determining whether any of the replacement frame image data is addressed to the terminal; and a download device for downloading, from the server, the replacement frame image data addressed to the terminal when the determination device determines that such replacement frame image data is addressed to the terminal.

48. The amusement unit terminal of claim 47, when the determination device performs its determination function upon powering on of the terminal.

49. The amusement unit terminal of claim 47, wherein the terminal transmits management data indicating an operation state of the terminal to a management system for performing terminal operation management.

50. The amusement unit terminal of claim 46, wherein the terminal is configured to register the self-portrait image as a home page through the communication network.

51. A composite self-portrait preparation amusement unit server configured for coupling to a plurality of composite self-portrait preparation amusement unit terminals over a communication network, the server comprising: a setting device for specifying at least one of a plurality of frame image data pieces for use in replacing at least one of a plurality of frame image data pieces stored on one of the plurality of terminals which has been specified with an ID; and a transmitter for transmitting the at least one replacement data piece to the specified terminal when that terminal accesses the server through the communication network.

52. The amusement unit server of claim 51, wherein the server is configured such that the at least one replacement frame image data piece of the frame image data is specified by the setting device in accordance with management data transmitted from at least one of the terminals to a management system so that the frame image data pieces for each terminal are selected in proportion to popularity.

53. An image print amusement system comprising: a plurality of composite self-portrait preparation amusement unit terminals, each of the terminals for combining a photograph image desired by a player with a frame image specified by the player in order to form a self-portrait, and for printing out the self-portrait on a seal comprising a peel-off seal piece; and a server, located remote from at least one of the terminals and coupled to the terminals via a communication network, for periodically updating data on the terminals.

54. The image print amusement system of claim 53, wherein the server is an Internet server coupled to the terminals via the Internet.

55. The image print amusement system of claim 53, wherein the system is configured so that it determines a less popular image available on at least one of the terminals and so that it replaces the less popular frame image with a new frame image from the server via the communication network.

56. A method, performed using a composite self-portrait preparation amusement terminal operating responsive to currency input, for superimposing a photograph image desired by a player on a frame image specified by the player in order to form a self-portrait, and for printing out the selfportrait on a seal, the method comprising: accessing a server from which replacement frame image data may be downloaded to the amusement terminal through a communication network; downloading replacement frame image data to the terminal when replacement frame image data for the terminal exists on the server; and replacing at least one frame image data piece stored on the terminal with at least one ofthe downloaded replacement frame image data.

57. The method of claim 56, each of a plurality of frame image data pieces being stored on the terminal and corresponding to a different frame for the self-portrait, respectively, the method further comprising the step of: counting how many times each of the frames of the terminal has been selected for use by a player to determine which of the frames of the terminal are used less than others of the terminal frames.

58. The method of claim 57, wherein the replacing step comprises replacing at least one of the less used frames of the terminal determined in the counting step with a replacement frame downloaded from the server to the terminal in the downloading step.

59. A method of creating a home page on the Internet, the method comprising the steps of: acquiring a player image at an amusement unit terminal; combining the player image with frame data, selected by the player from a plurality of frame data stored at the unit terminal, in order to form a composite self-portrait image; and uploading the composite self-portrait image to a web server.

60. The method of claim 59, further comprising: inputting voice information at the terminal; and uploading the voice information to the web server along with the composite self-portrait image.

61. The method of claim 59, further comprising: inputting text character information at the terminal; and uploading the text character information to the web server along with the composite selfportrait image.

62. The method of claim 59, each of the frame image data stored on the terminal corresponding to a different frame for the composite self-portrait image, the method further comprising: counting how many times each of the frames of the terminal has been selected for use by a player to determine which of the frames of the terminal are used less than others of the terminal frames; and replacing at least one of the less used frames of the teminal with a replacement frame downloaded from the server to the terminal.