JP2004153696A - Method, program for exchanging image data, computer readable recording medium in which the same are recorded, photographic print device and print paper unit - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To evade one-sided transmission of image data and to realize fair and sure exchange of the image data in the case of exchange of the image data through a network. <P>SOLUTION: A first communication terminal performs processing (S5) for displaying a second piece of image data received from a second communication terminal on its display means at a degraded state, processing (S6, S8) for accepting the input of exchange offer information for offering the exchange between a first piece of image data and the second piece of image data and processing (S9) for transmitting the exchange offer information to the second communication terminal and the second communication terminal performs the processing for permitting the first communication terminal to use the second piece of image data at an original state in the case of consenting the contents of the exchange offer information. In response to permission, the first communication terminal performs the processing (S12) for using the second piece of image data at the original state. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an image data exchange method for exchanging image data between a plurality of communication terminals via a network, an image data exchange program, a computer-readable recording medium storing the program, a photographic printing device, and a print paper unit. It is.
[0002]
[Prior art]
2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in a recreation facility such as a game center, for example, a photographing printing apparatus for photographing a user and combining the photograph with a background image and outputting the resultant as a seal print has been installed. ing. In particular, after taking a picture, a model in which a user performs graffiti (image editing) on a captured image displayed on a display screen using a pointing device such as a touch pen, confirms the screen, and then prints out the image. are doing.
[0003]
In the photographing and printing apparatus, the elements of play and graffiti play are also large, as well as the beauty of the photographing, so that entertainment is required. In addition, it is common for users of the photographing and printing apparatus to exchange photographed photograph prints, attach them to a system notebook, a mobile phone, or the like, or collect.
[0004]
As an advanced form of such a photographing and printing apparatus, there is known an apparatus that discloses photographed image data (image data) on a communication line in place of, or in addition to, the photographed photograph print output. (For example, see Patent Document 1). By using such a photographing and printing apparatus, a user can exchange photographed image data through a bulletin board or the like provided on a network (communication line) or recruit an exchange partner. For example, after photographing, a user inputs a password or the like from a personal computer at home, browses a website established on the server, and checks the content of photographed image data posted on the website. , Or know the contact information of the exchange partner.
[0005]
[Patent Document 1]
JP 2001-292391A (Published date: October 19, 2001)
[0006]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, when photographed image data is exchanged over a network using a conventional photographing and printing apparatus, the following problems have occurred.
[0007]
That is, even when the user transmits the captured image data to the other party through the network, there is no guarantee that the other party will transmit the captured image data, and the provision of the captured image data is unilateral. There was a fear.
[0008]
Also, even if the other party sends the photographed image data, if the number and contents are significantly inferior to the photographed image data provided by the user, a fair exchange of the photographed image data is not considered. No. Such a problem has caused a user to hesitate to exchange captured image data with an unknown partner through a network.
[0009]
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and has as its object to provide an image data exchange method, an image data exchange program, and an image data exchange program for realizing fair and reliable image data exchange via a network. To provide a computer-readable recording medium, a photographing and printing apparatus, and a printing paper unit.
[0010]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
An image data exchange method of the present invention is an image data exchange method for exchanging image data between a plurality of communication terminals via a network, in order to solve the above-mentioned problem. Deterioration display processing for displaying the second image data received from the second communication terminal in a degraded state, and the first communication terminal, the first image data held by its own device and the second image data An input of exchange offer information for offering an exchange, a reception process of accepting from the user of the first communication terminal, an offer process in which the first communication terminal transmits the exchange offer information to the second communication terminal, When the second communication terminal accepts the content of the exchange offer information, the first communication terminal transmits to the first communication terminal use permission information that permits the first communication terminal to use the second image data in its original state. The permission process to send and the first Terminal, based on the license information, it is characterized by and a use process to be used in the second image data original state of.
[0011]
In the above configuration, the network includes a known communication network such as the Internet and a LAN (Local Area Network), a public communication line, a dedicated line, and a known communication line such as an ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network). The communication terminal may be in any form, such as a photographing and printing device, a server, a mobile phone, and a PDA (Personal Digital Assistance), as long as it performs communication processing via the network.
[0012]
In the above configuration, displaying image data in a state in which the image data has been subjected to deterioration processing means displaying the image data in a state in which various kinds of quality deterioration processing have been performed. Examples of the quality reduction processing include a mosaic processing, a blur processing, a pixel thinning processing, a reduction processing, and the like. Note that the quality reduction processing such as the mosaic processing does not necessarily need to be performed on the entire second image data, and may be performed only on a part of the image data, for example, only a part corresponding to skin color.
[0013]
According to the above configuration, in the deterioration display process, the first communication terminal displays the second image data received from the second communication terminal in a state where the deterioration has been performed. Specifically, the second communication terminal performs a deterioration process on the original state image data, and transmits the processed image data to the first communication terminal as the deteriorated second image data. The second communication terminal transmits the original image data to the first communication terminal, and the first communication terminal performs the degrading process on the original image data, and displays the processed image data in the degraded state. The second image data may be displayed on the display means. In the latter mode, in the permission process, the second communication terminal transmits the original state image data to be used for permission to the first communication terminal.
[0014]
Thereafter, in the application process, the user instructs the first communication terminal to exchange the second image data displayed in the degraded state with the first image data on the user side. Offer to the second communication terminal. In response, if the second communication terminal accepts the exchange of the image data, the first communication terminal uses the second image data in the original image state in the use process. The exchange consent information in the above consent process may be transmitted by an instruction from the user of the second communication terminal, or the second communication terminal itself may automatically transmit the information based on a predetermined procedure. It may be transmitted.
[0015]
Thereby, only when the intention to exchange is confirmed between the first communication terminal and the second communication terminal, the first communication terminal sets the second communication terminal as the original original image state. Can be used. As a result, it is possible to realize fair and reliable exchange of image data while avoiding that the provision of image data becomes unilateral.
[0016]
Further, in the reception process, the first communication terminal performs the exchange only when the number of image data of the first image data and the number of image data of the second image data to be exchanged match. It is preferable to accept only the offer information. Thereby, the exchange of image data between the first terminal and the second terminal can be made fairer.
[0017]
In addition, the form of the use processing is not particularly limited as long as the second image data is used in the original image state. It is also preferable that the second image data in the original state is transmitted to an external device based on the information. As a result, the second image data whose use has been permitted can be used not only by the first communication terminal but also by other external devices.
[0018]
Further, in the use process, the first communication terminal converts the second image data in the original state into a form according to the display characteristics of the display means in the external device, and converts the converted image data into the external device. Is preferably sent to This makes it possible to provide the external device with image data displayed in an appropriate form.
[0019]
The computer can function as the first communication terminal by executing the image data exchange program. Furthermore, if the image data exchange program is recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, the computer can read and execute the image data exchange program, thereby enabling the computer to function as the first communication terminal. Become.
[0020]
According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a photographing and printing apparatus that includes: a photographing unit that photographs a subject; an output unit that prints out a photographed image photographed by the photographing unit; A photographing / printing apparatus including a transmitting / receiving unit for performing transmission / reception, characterized in that it functions as a first communication terminal in the image data exchange method according to any one of the above.
[0021]
This makes it possible to realize an image data exchange method using the photographing and printing device as the first communication terminal, and to exchange image data representing a photographed image photographed by the photographing unit with image data of an external device. it can.
[0022]
According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a print paper unit for use in the above-described photographing and printing apparatus, wherein a print paper on which an image is printed and identification information regarding the print paper are provided. An identification medium for recording, wherein the identification information reading means provided in the photographing and printing apparatus reads the identification information recorded on the identification medium, and after confirming the content, an image is printed on the printing paper. Is output.
[0023]
According to the above configuration, it is determined based on the identification information read by the identification information reading means whether the attached printing paper is usable in the photographing and printing apparatus, and if it is available, Only the printer can be operated. That is, it is possible to make settings so that the printing paper other than the printing paper designated by the photographing and printing apparatus can be used.
[0024]
In addition, by including the number of sheets information in the identification information, the number of sheets is counted down every time a print sheet is used, so that the number of remaining sheets can be grasped. Therefore, if the remaining number of sheets is reduced and a warning is displayed by a display means or the like, it is possible to avoid a problem such as running out of paper during use by the user. Become.
[0025]
Furthermore, by including the paper type information in the identification information and correcting the color components and the like of the image data in consideration of the information, it is possible to output an accurate image on the paper or the ink film.
[0026]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
One embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS.
[0027]
[1. System configuration]
FIG. 2 shows a schematic configuration of a communication network system according to an embodiment of the present invention. This communication network system has a configuration in which a plurality of photographing and printing apparatuses 1... (Communication terminals) are connected to a server 3 and a personal computer 4 via a communication network 2 (network). , Which means that there are a plurality of configurations indicated by the symbols immediately preceding them.)
[0028]
Although the details of the photographing and printing apparatus 1 will be described later, the communication network 2 is a known communication network such as the Internet, a LAN (Local Area Network), a public communication line, a dedicated line, or an ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network). Communication line can be used.
[0029]
The server 3 and the personal computer 4 each have a known computer configuration, and are not limited in form. However, the processing unit that processes various data, the memory that stores various data, and the communication network 2 and a transmission unit for transmitting data to the communication network 2.
[0030]
[1-1. External Configuration of Photographic Printing Apparatus]
Next, an external configuration of the photographing and printing apparatus 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the front side (photographing room) of the photographing print device 1. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the rear side (the graffiti room) of the photographing and printing apparatus 1.
[0031]
As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the photographing and printing apparatus 1 is configured such that the front space of each of two opposing surfaces of the apparatus main body 11 is a photographing room or a graffiti room. On the outer periphery of the photographing room and the graffiti room, there is provided a peripheral curtain (two-dot chain line in FIGS. 3 and 4) composed of a light-shielding vinyl sheet or the like. The surrounding curtain can prevent external light from entering the shooting area at the time of shooting, so that good shooting can be performed. In addition, the surrounding curtain makes it possible to effectively produce effects by lighting and voice during the photographing process and the graffiti process, and also to protect the privacy by preventing peeping from the outside.
[0032]
As shown in FIG. 3, a device 12, a touch panel 13, an operation button 14, a coin slot 15, a coin return slot 16, a front lighting device 17a, an elevation lighting device 17c, a front A speaker 18a is provided. A ceiling lighting device 17b (see FIG. 4) and a rear speaker 18b are provided in the front direction of the device main body 11.
[0033]
As shown in FIG. 4, the apparatus main body 11 is provided with a touch panel 21, a touch pen 22, a front speaker 18c, and a print outlet 19. Further, a ceiling lighting device 17d and a rear speaker 18d are provided in the rear direction of the device main body 11.
[0034]
Subsequently, the external configuration of the photographing and printing apparatus 1 will be described in detail.
[0035]
The camera 12 (shooting unit) shoots a photograph of the user. The camera 12 is equipped with a digital camera including, for example, a lens group, an aperture, and a charge coupled device (CCD) image sensor. Further, the camera 12 may be configured to be capable of switching between a lens group, an aperture, a filter, and the like so as to support a plurality of imaging methods such as full-body imaging and close-up imaging. Further, the camera 12 is mounted to be vertically movable by vertically provided rails, and can be installed at an optimum height according to a user's instruction or the like.
[0036]
The touch panel 13 and the touch panel 21 are configured by providing a touch sensor on a display surface such as a flat panel display such as a liquid crystal display element or a CRT (cathode ray tube). The touch panel 13 displays various messages and images in the photographing process, that is, a demo screen, an opening screen, a billing process instruction screen, various operation contents in the photographing process, a photographing screen at the time of photographing, and the like.
[0037]
The operation button 14 is provided for an operation input without using the touch panel 13. Note that even an operation that can be input from the touch panel 13 may be input simultaneously from the operation button 14. The touch panel 21 displays various messages and images in the graffiti processing, that is, images to be edited in the image editing processing of graffiti and the like, various editing tools, and the like. As described above, when the photographing and printing apparatus 1 operates, various messages and images to be presented to the user are displayed on the touch panel 13 or the touch panel 21.
[0038]
A touch pen 22 is provided near the touch panel 21 (below the touch panel 21 in FIG. 4). By bringing the touch pen 22 into contact with the touch panel 21, the user can select a button to be displayed in accordance with the progress of the process or draw an image such as graffiti.
[0039]
Here, as shown in FIG. 4, the photographing and printing apparatus 1 includes two sets of touch panels 21 and touch pens 22 arranged side by side. Thus, two users can simultaneously input graffiti processing and the like into the captured images displayed on the two touch panels 21 and 21, respectively. Note that different captured images can be displayed on the touch panels 21, respectively, and the user can also input a graffiti process or the like for different captured images. Further, in the graffiti processing, the graffiti processing input from one touch panel 21 can be reflected on the other touch panel 21.
[0040]
The coin insertion slot 15 is an insertion slot for a user to insert a predetermined amount of coins as a play fee. The coin return opening 16 is a return opening for returning coins to the user when a change occurs or when the coins are reset after being inserted. A coin container (not shown) for storing coins collected from the user is provided inside the apparatus main body 11.
[0041]
The print discharge port 19 is a place where a printed photo print is discharged after the user has completed a photographing operation, an editing operation, an image data exchange operation described later, and the like. The print outlet 19 is arranged on a side surface of the apparatus main body 11 of the photographing and printing apparatus 1, and the user who has completed the editing work moves to the vicinity of the print outlet 19 to take out a photographic print. Become.
[0042]
The front illumination device 17a and the ceiling illumination device 17b function as a flash at the time of photographing and also function as normal illumination. Inside the front illuminator 17a and the ceiling illuminator 17b, for example, a strobe illuminator that emits light when flashing, and a fluorescent lamp that emits light as normal illumination are provided.
[0043]
The elevation lighting device 17c is a spot-type lighting device for projecting light from under the user's face. Various illumination devices, such as the elevation illumination device 17c, can be appropriately provided in the photographing and printing device 1. The ceiling lighting device 17d functions as lighting during graffiti.
[0044]
The speaker 18 (the loudspeaker of the photographing and printing apparatus 1 including the front speaker 18a, the rear speaker 18b, the front speaker 18c, and the rear speaker 18d is collectively referred to as a "speaker 18") is provided to the user in various operations. Output guidance voices and sound effects.
[0045]
[1-2. Functional Configuration of Photographic Printing Apparatus]
Next, a functional configuration of the photographing and printing apparatus 1 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the photographing and printing apparatus 1.
[0046]
As shown in FIG. 5, the photographing and printing apparatus 1 includes, in addition to the above-described camera 12, touch panels 13, 21, touch pen 22, operation buttons 14, lighting device 17, and speaker 18, a control device 50, a storage device, and the like inside. 31, an accounting unit 32, an ID tag reader / writer 33, and a printer 34 (output unit). Further, the photographing and printing apparatus 1 has a print paper unit 40 mounted thereon.
[0047]
The control device 50 controls the operations of various components in the photographing and printing device 1 in an integrated manner. The control device 50 is configured by, for example, a PC-based computer. The operation control of various components is performed by causing a computer to execute a control program. This program may be in the form of reading and using a program recorded on a removable medium such as a CD-ROM, or in the form of reading and using a program installed on a hard disk or the like. When the control device 50 is connected to a communication network such as the Internet (including the communication network 2 in FIG. 2), the program is downloaded via the communication network, installed on a hard disk or the like, and executed. It is also conceivable to use a form in which it is performed.
[0048]
The storage device 31 is configured by a nonvolatile storage device such as the above-described hard disk. The contents stored in the storage device 31 include an OS (operating system) program, the control program, an image data exchange program described later, various other programs, operation set values in the camera 12, images taken and images edited. Data. Examples of the operation setting values in the camera 12 include white balance values set at the time of shipment of the apparatus and maintenance, various parameter values related to image processing when adjusting the brightness of a captured image, and the like.
[0049]
The billing processing unit 32 performs a process related to billing collected from the user. The control device 50 controls the operation of the user according to the charging status by the charging processing unit 32.
[0050]
An ID tag reader / writer (identification information reading means) 33 and a printer (printing means) 34 constitute a printer unit, and a printing paper 42 as an output medium of a photographic print and an ID tag (identification information) are provided to the printer unit. The medium 41 is mounted as a print paper unit 40 as a set.
[0051]
When the image data of the print image to be output is sent from the control device 50, the printer 34 prints out (prints) on the print paper 42 based on the image data. As the printer 34, for example, a sublimation type printer is used. When a sublimation type printer is used, a sublimation type ink film is delivered as a set in addition to the print paper 42 and the ID tag 41, and is attached to the photographing and printing apparatus 1.
[0052]
The ID tag reader / writer 33 reads out various types of identification information recorded on the ID tag 41 and outputs the information to the control device 50. The ID tag 41 is configured by an IC chip having a memory function or the like. Examples of the identification information include a unique ID, the number of sheets, a sheet type, and color information unique to ink (when an ink film is set).
[0053]
The communication unit 35 (transmission / reception unit) is a communication interface that performs various types of data transmission / reception via an external network including the communication network 2 (see FIG. 2). The communication unit 35 includes a LAN interface and a modem device for connecting to the external network, and a mobile phone network interface and a dedicated modem device for performing telephone network communication and e-mail transmission / reception with a user's mobile phone. Is also provided.
[0054]
The control device 50 determines, based on the identification information read by the ID tag reader / writer 33, whether the attached printing paper 42 and the ink film can be used in the photographing and printing device 1, and can be used. The printer 34 can be operated only in certain cases. That is, it is set so that only the printing paper 42 and the ink film designated in the photographing and printing apparatus 1 can be used.
[0055]
Further, by counting down the number of sheets each time the print paper 42 is used based on the information on the number of sheets recorded in the ID tag 41, it is possible to grasp the number of remaining sheets. Therefore, if the remaining number of sheets is reduced and a warning is displayed by a display means or the like, it is possible to avoid a problem such as running out of paper during use by the user. Become. When counting down the number of sheets, the information on the number of sheets recorded in the ID tag 41 is also rewritten. As a result, when the sheets are used up, the number-of-sheets information recorded in the ID tag 41 also becomes 0, and the ID tag 41 can be invalidated.
[0056]
Also, by reading out the paper type information and the ink-specific color information recorded in the ID tag 41 and correcting the color components of the image data in consideration of the information, an accurate image on the paper or the ink film can be obtained. Output can be performed.
[0057]
The ID tag 41 includes a non-contact type ID tag capable of wirelessly performing data communication and a contact type ID tag provided with a terminal, and the ID tag reader / writer 33 includes one or both of them. It corresponds to both.
[0058]
In the above example, whether or not the print paper 42 can be used is confirmed using the ID tag 41. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the print paper 42 and the ink film 42 may be used. The confirmation may be made by using a bar code or the like printed on a packing material for packing.
[0059]
Note that, as the print paper 42, a general paper-like sheet may be employed, or various types of adhesive sheets or release sheets may be employed.
[0060]
[3. System operation]
Next, an image data exchange operation in the photographing and printing apparatus 1 of the communication network system will be described with reference to FIGS.
[0061]
FIG. 1 is a flowchart showing step by step the image data exchange operation (image data exchange method) of the photographing and printing apparatus 1 (see FIG. 2) constituting the communication network.
[0062]
The image data exchange operation of the photographing and printing apparatus 1 is performed as long as the user has prepared exchange image data (hereinafter, collectively referred to as “image data A” irrespective of singular or plural). It may be done at any time. For example, the image data exchange operation may be performed after the user completes the photographing process using the camera 12 (see FIG. 5) or the graffiti process using the touch panel 21, or the user may perform the image data exchange operation in advance. If the image data A is recorded in the storage device 31 (see FIG. 5), it may be performed before the above-described photographing processing or graffiti processing.
[0063]
The image data exchange operation of the photographing and printing apparatus 1 is realized by the control device 50 (see FIG. 5) executing an image data exchange program recorded in the storage device 31 (see FIG. 5). Hereinafter, each flow of the image data exchange operation will be described with reference to FIG.
[0064]
First, the photographing and printing apparatus 1 displays on the touch panel 13 (see FIG. 3) a message screen (see FIG. 6A) including telephone number information given to the built-in communication unit 35 (see FIG. 5), The user's mobile phone (hereinafter simply referred to as “user's mobile phone”) is prompted to make a call to the photographing and printing device 1. In response to this, when the user makes a call to the photograph print 1, the photograph print apparatus 1 obtains the telephone number of the user's mobile phone, which is the caller, by the operation of the communication unit 35 and the control device 50. (Step S1, hereinafter simply referred to as "S1". The same applies to other steps).
[0065]
Note that the photographing and printing apparatus 1 displays the confirmation message of the telephone number acquired in this step (see FIG. 6B) on the touch panel 13 and asks the user whether or not the telephone number is correct. It is also preferable to confirm. In this case, if the telephone number displayed in the confirmation message matches the telephone number of the user's mobile phone, the user presses the display of "OK" to instruct the progress to the next step. If the telephone number displayed in the confirmation message is different from the telephone number of the user's mobile phone, the user presses the display of "Redo" to repeat the process of S1 and acquire the telephone number again. To instruct.
[0066]
Next, the photographing and printing apparatus 1 displays on the touch panel 13 a message screen (see FIGS. 7A and 7B) prompting the user to input the model information of the user's mobile phone, and accepts the input of the model information (S2). ). Generally, mobile phones have different models for each telephone company, so the photographing and printing device 1 allows the user to select and input a mobile phone company (see FIG. 7A), and to obtain model information belonging to the selected mobile phone company. Of these, it is preferable that the user selects and inputs a detailed model name (see FIG. 7B).
[0067]
Next, the photographing and printing apparatus 1 displays on the touch panel 13 a message screen (see FIG. 8) for prompting the user to input a mail address of the user's mobile phone, and accepts the input of the mail address (S3). If a part of the e-mail address is estimated based on the model information of the user's mobile phone obtained in S2, the photographing and printing apparatus 1 enables automatic input or batch input of the estimated part. It is also preferable to assist the user in inputting.
[0068]
Thereafter, the photographing and printing apparatus 1 displays on the touch panel 13 a message screen (see FIG. 9A) asking the user whether to exchange image data. In response to this, if the user instructs the exchange of the image data (the process is terminated if the user does not want to exchange the image data), the photographing and printing apparatus 1 transmits another photograph via the communication network 2. Replacement image data (hereinafter, collectively referred to as “image data B” irrespective of singular or plural) is received from a photographing printing apparatus (hereinafter, referred to as “photographing printing apparatus 1 ′”). S4).
[0069]
It should be noted that the photographing and printing apparatus 1 'to be exchanged with the image data is selected in advance by the photographing and printing apparatus 1 according to the instruction of the user. Although the number of image data B to be received is not particularly limited, it is preferable that the photographing and printing apparatus 1 designates the number in accordance with an instruction from the user. As the format of the image data B (image data A), any format such as a GIF format or a JPEG format can be adopted.
[0070]
It is preferable that the image data B to be received be given a file name including the mobile phone number of the owner of the image data B or the owner name specified based on the mobile phone number. For example, if the mobile phone number of the owner of the image data B is “090999999999”, a file name such as “090999999999_001” or “090999999999_002” is given to the image data B.
[0071]
This facilitates confirmation of the owner of the image data B at the time of exchanging image data, thereby preventing mischief by a partner impersonating another person. It is also preferable that the photographing and printing apparatus 1 implements various search functions for the file name of the image data B.
[0072]
Next, as shown in FIG. 9B, the photographing and printing apparatus 1 displays the image data B or the plurality of image data B received in S4 on the touch panel 13 in a deteriorated state (S5: deterioration display processing). In FIG. 9B, the displayed URL information is that of the photographing and printing apparatus 1 'that provided the image data B, and the URL information in the message screen is changed based on a user's operation instruction. If so, the processing from S4 is repeated with another photographing and printing apparatus (for example, the photographing and printing apparatus 1 '').
[0073]
In this step, displaying the image data B in a degraded state means that the image data B is displayed as image data (hereinafter, referred to as “image data B ′”) obtained by performing various quality degradation processes on the original image data of the image data B. That means. Examples of the quality reduction processing include a mosaic processing, a blur processing, a pixel thinning processing, a reduction processing, and the like. Note that the quality deterioration processing such as the mosaic processing does not necessarily need to be performed on the entire image data B, and may be performed on only a part of the image data B, for example, only a part corresponding to skin color.
[0074]
In this step, as a mode in which the photographing and printing apparatus 1 displays the image data B received in S4 in a deteriorated state, the quality reduction processing on the image data B is performed in advance by the other party (photographing and printing apparatus 1 ′). An application mode and an application mode on the user side (photographing and printing apparatus 1) can be considered.
[0075]
When the other party (photographing and printing apparatus 1 ′) performs the quality degradation processing on the image data B, the photographing and printing apparatus 1 receives the image data B ′ having undergone the quality degradation processing in S 4, and receives the received image data B. 'Is displayed on the touch panel 13 as it is. On the other hand, when the user (photographing and printing apparatus 1) performs the quality lowering processing on the image data B, the photographing and printing apparatus 1 performs the above-described quality lowering processing on the image data B received in S4. Is displayed on the touch panel 13.
[0076]
At the same time, the photographing and printing apparatus 1 displays a message screen (FIG. 9) for prompting the user to select which of the image data B ′ (B) is to be exchanged with the image data (image data A) on the user side. (See (b)) is displayed on the touch panel 13 (S6: reception process). FIG. 9C is a diagram showing an example of a screen display on the touch panel 13 when one of the image data B ′ displayed in FIG. 9B is selected.
[0077]
Next, the photographing and printing apparatus 1 displays the user-side image data (image data A) prepared in advance on the touch panel 13 (S7). As described above, the image data (image data A) on the user side may be recorded in the storage device 31 (see FIG. 5) in advance, or immediately before the image data exchange operation by the photographing and printing device 1, The photographing process or the graffiti process may have just been completed.
[0078]
Next, the photographing / printing apparatus 1 accepts from the user the input of the exchange offer information for offering to exchange the image data A and the image data B ′ (B) held by the apparatus. That is, the user selects, from among the image data A displayed in S7, the image data A desired to be exchanged with the image data B '(B) of the other party selected in S6 (S8: reception processing). Through the steps S4 to S8, the user can exchange image data in a real-time sense while checking each other's image data (image data A, image data B '(B)).
[0079]
The image data A on the user side is also the same as the image data B '(B) on the other side, such as the telephone number of the user's mobile phone obtained in S1 or the owner name assigned based on the telephone number. It is preferable that a file name including “. If the photographing / printing apparatus 1 can grasp the image data exchange history between the user and the other party based on the file name, the message “Already exchanged before!” For the already exchanged image data. It is also preferable that the display or the display of the replaced image is displayed in a specific color (for example, blue) or the like, so that the user is notified of the display. Thus, it is possible to avoid performing the same image data exchange with the same partner.
[0080]
Further, the photographing and printing apparatus 1 sets the number of image data B '(B) of the other party selected in S6 to be equal to the number of image data A of the user selected in this step. It is also preferable to prompt the user. This allows the user to make an exchange request to be described later based on a fair exchange condition in which the number of image data B '(B) on the other side matches the number of image data A on the user side. Becomes possible.
[0081]
Further, the photographing and printing apparatus 1 determines that the image data A on the user side whose data size is smaller than a predetermined value is data without an image or data with an unclear image. It is also preferable to remove them from the selection in the step. As a result, unfair data exchange such as exchange of miss data that does not include an image due to a shooting error or the like can be avoided.
[0082]
Next, based on the user's instruction, the photographing and printing apparatus 1 transmits image data exchange offer information to the photographing and printing apparatus 1 '(S9: offer processing).
[0083]
The contents of the exchange request information of the image data include the condition for exchanging the image data A and the image data B ′ (B), the exchange intention information of the user (except for the explicit information, and the transmission of some information. The content is not particularly limited as long as the content (including an implicit one such as expressing intention) is included. The exchange offer information includes, for example, the selection information of the image data B ′ (B) in S6, the selection information of the image data A in S8, and the data itself of the image data A selected in S8.
[0084]
After that, the photographing and printing apparatus 1 waits for a predetermined period of time from the photographing and printing apparatus 1 'to transmit exchange acceptance information for accepting the exchange according to the exchange offer information transmitted in S9 (S10: Accept). processing). The content of the exchange consent information may indicate the intention of the other party to accept the exchange in accordance with the exchange offer information (including an explicit one and an implicit one such that transmission of some information indicates an intention to consent). For example, the contents are not particularly limited. In S4, if the photographing and printing apparatus 1 'has not transmitted the image data B and has transmitted only the image data B' to the photographing and printing apparatus 1, the image data B to be replaced is replaced with the image data B. Sent together with consent information. In this step, if the exchange approval information is acquired within a predetermined time in this step, the photographing and printing apparatus 1 determines that the exchange of the image data has been established and proceeds to the step S10, while acquiring the exchange acceptance information within the predetermined time. If not, it is determined that the exchange of the image data has not been established and the user is informed that the exchange has not been completed, and the processing is terminated.
[0085]
When the exchange of the image data is established, the photographing and printing apparatus 1 displays the image data B in the original image state on the touch panel 13 (S11). Thus, the user can check the image data B in the original image state for the first time, instead of the image data B ′ in the deteriorated state checked in step S5.
[0086]
In the last step, the photographing and printing apparatus 1 prints out the image data B with the printer 34 (see FIG. 5) (S12: use process).
[0087]
In this step, the photographing and printing apparatus 1 sends the image data B to the user's mobile phone (the mail address obtained in S2) by e-mail instead of or in addition to the print output by the printer 34. It may be attached and transmitted. In this case, based on the model information of the user's mobile phone (external device) obtained in S3, the photographing and printing device 1 converts the image data into the number of pixels corresponding to the resolution of the display (display means). It is also preferable to transmit B to the user's mobile phone. When performing such conversion, the photographing and printing apparatus 1 displays the converted image data on a dedicated monitor or the like, and allows the user to confirm the conversion state before transmitting the data to the user's mobile phone. Is also preferred. Further, the photographing and printing apparatus 1 preferably attaches, to an e-mail, the number of distributions of image data to be transmitted and flag information for limiting a distribution destination.
[0088]
The image data exchange operation in the photographing and printing apparatus 1 has been described above. However, the operation procedure is not necessarily limited to the above example. For example, the image data exchange operation of the other party's image data (image data BB ′) in S4 to S6 is performed. The reception, display, and selection may be performed after the display and selection (transmission) of the user-side image data (image data A) in S7 and S8.
[0089]
Further, in the above description of the operation, the description has been given of the case where the photographing and printing apparatus 1 and the photographing and printing apparatus 1 ′ exchange image data by performing real-time communication, but the embodiment of the present invention is not limited to this. is not.
[0090]
For example, the photographing and printing apparatus 1 ′ previously registers replacement image data (image data B and B ′) in the server 3 and the personal computer 4 (see FIG. 2), and performs photographing and printing in the image data exchange operation. By causing the server 3 and the personal computer 4 to play the role of the device 1 ′, the photographing and printing device 1 and the photographing and printing device 1 ′ indirectly exchange image data via the server 3 and the personal computer 4. It is also possible.
[0091]
FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing data registration contents when image data of a plurality of users (users A to C) is registered in the server 3. As shown in the figure, when the image data is registered in the server 3, the relatively large-capacity memory provided in the server 3 can be advantageously used, and the registered image data can be easily disclosed through the Internet or the like. Become.
[0092]
As described above, the image data exchange operation of the photographing and printing apparatus 1 is realized based on the image data exchange program, and the image data exchange program includes a storage device 31 (see FIG. 5). Alternatively, the program may be supplied by a program medium read by a drive device provided as an external storage device.
[0093]
The program medium is a recording medium configured to be separable from the main body, such as a tape system such as a magnetic tape or a cassette tape, a magnetic disk such as a floppy (registered trademark) disk or a hard disk, a CD-ROM / MO / MD / A disk system of an optical disk such as a DVD, a card system such as an IC card (including a memory card) / optical card, or a medium that fixedly carries a program including a semiconductor memory such as a mask ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, or flash ROM. There may be.
[0094]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, the image data exchange method of the present invention is an image data exchange method for exchanging image data between a plurality of communication terminals via a network, wherein the display means of the first communication terminal includes Deterioration display processing for displaying the second image data received from the communication terminal in a degraded state, and the first communication terminal offers to exchange the first image data owned by itself and the second image data. For receiving the exchange offer information for the user from the user of the first communication terminal, the first communication terminal, the offer process of transmitting the exchange offer information to the second communication terminal, the second, When the communication terminal accepts the contents of the exchange offer information, permission to transmit the use permission information to the first communication terminal to permit the first communication terminal to use the second image data in its original state Processing and the first communication terminal Based on the license information, which is configured to include a use process to be used in the second image data original state of.
[0095]
Therefore, only when the intention of the exchange is confirmed between the first communication terminal and the second communication terminal, the first communication terminal sets the second communication terminal as the original original image state. Can be used. As a result, there is an effect that fair and reliable exchange of image data can be realized while avoiding the provision of image data being unilateral.
[0096]
Further, in the reception process, the first communication terminal performs the exchange only when the number of image data of the first image data and the number of image data of the second image data to be exchanged match. It is preferable to accept only the offer information. Thereby, there is an effect that the exchange of image data between the first terminal and the second terminal can be made fairer.
[0097]
In addition, the form of the use processing is not particularly limited as long as the second image data is used in the original image state. It is also preferable that the second image data in the original state is transmitted to an external device based on the information. As a result, the second image data whose use is permitted can be used not only by the first communication terminal but also by other external devices.
[0098]
Further, in the use process, the first communication terminal converts the second image data in the original state into a form according to the display characteristics of the display means in the external device, and converts the converted image data into the external device. Is preferably sent to This provides an effect that the external device can provide image data displayed in an appropriate form.
[0099]
By executing the image data exchange program, there is an effect that the computer can function as the first communication terminal. Furthermore, if the image data exchange program is recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, the computer can read and execute the image data exchange program, thereby enabling the computer to function as the first communication terminal. It also has the effect of becoming.
[0100]
As described above, the photographing and printing device of the present invention transmits and receives data to and from an external device via a network, and a photographing unit that photographs a subject, an output unit that prints out a photographed image photographed by the photographing unit, and a network. A photographing / printing apparatus including a transmitting / receiving unit, wherein the apparatus functions as a first communication terminal in the image data exchange method according to any one of the above.
[0101]
This makes it possible to realize an image data exchange method using the photographing and printing device as the first communication terminal, and to exchange image data representing a photographed image photographed by the photographing unit with image data of an external device. It has the effect of being able to.
[0102]
Further, as described above, the printing paper unit of the present invention is a printing paper unit used in the above-described photographing and printing apparatus, wherein the printing paper unit on which an image is printed and the identification paper for recording identification information relating to the printing paper. Medium, and identification information recorded on the identification medium is read by identification information reading means provided in the photographing and printing apparatus, and after the content is confirmed, an image is output on the printing paper. Configuration.
[0103]
Thereby, based on the identification information read by the identification information reading means, it is determined whether the attached printing paper is usable in the photographing and printing apparatus, and the printer is operated only when it is available. It is possible to make it possible. That is, there is an effect that it is possible to set so that the printing paper other than the printing paper designated in the photographing and printing apparatus can be used.
[0104]
In addition, by including the number-of-sheets information in the identification information, the number of sheets is counted down every time a print sheet is used, so that the remaining number of sheets can be grasped. Therefore, if the remaining number of sheets is reduced and a warning is provided by a display means or the like, it is possible to avoid a problem such as running out of paper during use by the user. It also has the effect of becoming.
[0105]
Furthermore, by including the paper type information in the identification information, the color components of the image data are corrected in consideration of the information, thereby enabling an accurate image output on the paper or the ink film. Play.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a flowchart showing an image data exchange operation (image data exchange method) in a photographic printing apparatus of the present invention step by step.
FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram showing a configuration of a communication network system according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating a front-side configuration of the photographing and printing apparatus.
FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating a rear-side configuration of the photographing and printing apparatus.
FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the photographing and printing apparatus.
FIGS. 6A and 6B are diagrams illustrating a message screen display example (when a telephone number of a mobile phone is acquired) displayed on a touch panel of a photographing and printing apparatus.
FIGS. 7A and 7B are diagrams illustrating a message screen display example (when acquiring model information of a mobile phone) displayed on a touch panel of a photographing and printing apparatus.
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a message screen displayed on the touch panel of the photographing and printing apparatus (at the time of acquiring a mobile phone mail address).
FIGS. 9A to 9C are schematic diagrams illustrating screen display examples during the image data exchange operation of the photographing and printing apparatus.
FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing data registration contents when image data of a plurality of users (users A to C) is registered in a server.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 Photographing and printing device (communication terminal)
2 Communication network (network)
12 Camera (shooting unit)
31 Storage device (recording medium)
33 ID tag reader / writer (identification information reading means)
34 Printer (output unit)
35 Communication unit (Transceiver unit)
40 print paper unit
41 ID tag (identification medium)
42 print paper
50 Control device (computer)

Claims (10)

An image data exchange method for exchanging image data between a plurality of communication terminals via a network,
Degradation display processing for displaying the second image data received from the second communication terminal in a degraded state on the display means of the first communication terminal,
A reception process in which the first communication terminal receives, from a user of the first communication terminal, an input of exchange offer information for offering exchange of the first image data held by the first communication terminal with the second image data. When,
An application process in which the first communication terminal transmits the exchange offer information to the second communication terminal,
When the second communication terminal accepts the content of the exchange offer information, the first communication terminal transmits use permission information that permits the first communication terminal to use the second image data in its original state. Permission to send,
A first communication terminal, based on the use permission information, a use process of using the second image data in its original state;
An image data exchange method, comprising: In the deterioration display process, the second communication terminal performs the deterioration process on the original image data, transmits the processed image data as the deteriorated second image data to the first communication terminal, ,
2. The image data exchange method according to claim 1, wherein, in the permission processing, the second communication terminal transmits the original image data to be used for permission to the first communication terminal. In the deterioration display processing, the second communication terminal transmits the original state image data to the first communication terminal, and the first communication terminal performs the deterioration processing on the original state image data. 2. The image data exchange method according to claim 1, wherein the image data is displayed on the display unit as the second image data in the deteriorated state. In the reception process, the first communication terminal performs the exchange request information only when the number of image data of the first image data to be exchanged matches the number of image data of the second image data. 4. The image data exchange method according to claim 1, wherein only image data is received. The method according to claim 1, wherein in the use processing, the first communication terminal transmits the second image data in the original state to an external device based on the use permission information. Image data exchange method. In the use processing, the first communication terminal converts the original second image data into a form according to the display characteristics of the display means in the external device, and transmits the converted image data to the external device. 6. The image data exchange method according to claim 5, wherein: Computer
An image data exchange program functioning as a first communication terminal in the image data exchange method according to any one of claims 1 to 6. A computer-readable recording medium on which the image data exchange program according to claim 7 is recorded. A shooting unit for shooting the subject,
An output unit for printing out a photographed image photographed by the photographing unit;
A photographing and printing apparatus including a transmitting and receiving unit that transmits and receives data to and from an external device via a network,
A photographing and printing apparatus, which functions as a first communication terminal in the image data exchange method according to any one of claims 1 to 6. A printing paper unit mounted on the photographing and printing apparatus according to claim 9,
A print sheet on which a print image is printed, and an identification medium for recording identification information about the print sheet,
The identification information is read from the identification medium by the identification information reading means included in the photographing and printing apparatus, and after confirming the content, the printing image is printed on the printing paper. And print paper unit.

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