JP2005346380A - Digital photograph order processing system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a digital photograph order processing system capable of preparing a production plan for efficiently processing a customer's order in a photograph processing laboratory and efficiently producing photographic prints ordered by the customer in accordance with the production plan. <P>SOLUTION: Customer's order information is transferred to the photograph processing laboratory by a first transfer means precedently to customer's order images corresponding to the order information, and after the end of transfer of the order information, the order images corresponding to the order information are transferred to the photograph processing laboratory by a second transfer means, and the photograph processing laboratory prepares a production plan for photographing printing processing on the basis of the order information transferred by the first transfer means and prepares photograph prints of the ordered images transferred by the second transfer means in accordance with the prepared production plan. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a digital photo order processing system, and more particularly, in a photo processing lab, a production plan for efficiently processing customer orders can be created, and customer orders are photo printed according to the production plan. The present invention relates to a digital photo order processing system.

In recent years, a digital still camera (DSC), a digital video camera (hereinafter collectively referred to as a digital camera), or a camera-equipped mobile phone shoots a subject to acquire a digital image. Display distribution images, digital broadcast images, digitized images (recorded on digital image recording media such as CDs) of photographic film such as negative film and reversal film on personal computers (PCs) and digital TVs. The opportunity to handle digital images (digital image data) is rapidly increasing.
On the other hand, recently, a photographed image of a photographic film is read as digital image data by a scanner or the like, or digital image data is read from a digital device such as a digital camera or a camera-equipped mobile phone or a digital image recording medium, and modulated according to the digital image data. Digital photo printers that expose and print digital images on photographic paper (paper) with a recording beam such as a laser beam that has been used are also widespread. This digital photographic printer is multifunctional, can input and output in various ways, and can perform various image processing.

For example, as an input source, and a photographic film such as a negative film or a reversal film, was recorded taken with digital cameras and camera-equipped mobile phone to the camera body, or smart media ^TM and Memory Stick ^TM and the SD ^TM, etc. Digital image data (image file) recorded on a digital image recording medium (media), or digital image data (media) such as FD (flexible disk), CD-R, Photo CD ^TM, etc. Image files), digital image data directly transmitted from customer PCs, user PCs, and the like via communication means such as the Internet.
On the other hand, in addition to ordinary photographic paper (paper), the output is also a post card, a digital image recording medium (hereinafter referred to as a medium) such as a CD-R on which image-processed digital image data is recorded, the Internet, etc. There are a wide variety of applications such as direct distribution of image-processed digital image data to customer PCs, user PCs, etc. via communication means.

For this reason, the method and form of ordering photo prints to a photo processing laboratory equipped with a digital photo printer, and the method for receiving the ordered photo prints, that is, the method and form of delivery, are diversified.
For example, an ordering method is a method in which a customer applies for digital photographic prints with a photographic film at a dealer or a photo processing laboratory, and writes customer order information into a developing and printing bag (so-called DP bag) and accepts the order. Yes, in this case, the DP bag containing the photographic film is transferred to the photo processing lab, and the photographic film is read by the digital photo printer scanner in the photo processing lab to obtain digital image data, which is written on the DP bag. The customer's order information is input, and the customer's digital image is associated with the order information.
In addition, there are the following ordering methods for ordering digital photo prints using direct digital images.

First, a customer reads out a digital image (image file) from a medium on which the digital image is recorded, a digital camera, or a camera-equipped mobile phone using his / her PC or the like, and displays the digital image on the display device. In addition to selecting an order image from among them, order information is input in association with the selected order image, and the communication data integrating the order image and the corresponding order information is directly from the customer's own PC or the order center. There is also a method of transferring to a reception server or the like (digital photo printer) of a photo processing laboratory via a communication method, that is, via a shared communication network such as the Internet or a dedicated communication network such as a LAN (Patent Literature). 1).
In addition, when the customer order image and the corresponding order information are transmitted as integrated communication data by communication method, the image data of the order image has a larger communication volume than the order information, so conventionally a communication error has occurred. In view of such problems, it is necessary to place orders more safely and reliably, and order information is continuously transmitted when image data is normally transmitted.

First, a customer brings a digital image recorded media, a digital camera, or a mobile phone with a camera to a store or a photo processing laboratory, and the operator or the customer himself / herself at a storefront terminal such as a storefront reception desk or an automatic reception desk , Read the digital image from the media, digital camera or camera phone, display it on the display device, select the customer's order image from the display image, input the order information corresponding to the customer's order image, As communication data that integrates the customer's order image and the corresponding order information, from the storefront terminal or directly through the order center to the photo processing laboratory reception server or the like (digital photo printer) in a communication system, that is, There is a method of transferring via a shared communication network such as the Internet or a dedicated communication network such as a LAN.
Or, at a store terminal such as a brokerage store, the read order image of the customer and the corresponding order information that has been input are recorded together in a media for ordering, this media is placed in a DP bag, a truck, etc. The customer's order image and the corresponding order information recorded on the ordering media are transferred to the photo processing lab directly from the agent store or via the order center by a delivery means such as a delivery flight by an automobile of the digital camera. There is also a method.

  When an order for digital photo prints using digital images as described above is received, the photo processing lab receives an order for each order, after receiving several orders, or after a predetermined time has passed. The information was collected, and according to the result of the counting, a digital photo printer lot group (production plan for each group) was performed and operated (production by group), and the ordered digital photo print was produced and output. For example, for each paper width of photographic paper (roll paper) used in a digital photo printer, the print size and quantity (number of prints) are counted, and the paper width of the photographic paper in the magazine currently loaded in the digital photo printer and In consideration of the remaining amount, a lot set for properly using a plurality of digital photo printers or a lot set for exchanging magazines for storing photographic papers having different paper widths and remaining amounts in one digital photo printer has been performed.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a workflow of a conventional digital photo order processing system for ordering digital photo prints using a storefront reception device.
As shown in the figure, by 19:00 on one day, the agent A receives an order A-1 and an order A-2 with the order reception machine, and the agent B receives an order B-1. Then, it is assumed that the agency C has received an order for the order C-1, the order C-2, the order C-3, and the order C-4.
Each agency ABC creates a media in which an order image corresponding to each order and order information indicating the corresponding order contents are written, and stores the media in a DP bag in which required order information is written, and a collection service (collection) Keep it until the car arrives.
Subsequently, the collection service (collection vehicle) periodically collects the DP bags containing the media from each agency after 19:00 in the illustrated example and transports them to the photo processing laboratory L. Note that this collection service needs to be circulated once a day in the evening, regardless of whether there is an order.

Next, after collecting the DP bags, the photo processing laboratory L takes out the media in each DP bag, reads the order image and the order information from each media, pools each order, and places all orders. After pooling, all orders are sorted together (lot assembly). This conventional sorting is
Basically, it is a mechanical sort that does not consider the efficient operation of people and digital photo printers, and some photo processing laboratories use human naval tactics based on visual judgment. Note that the printing equipment is suspended until the sorting is completed.
Next, in the photo processing laboratory L, for each lot sorted by the digital photo printer, for example, print processing # 1, # 2, and # 3 are performed to produce a desired photo print. At this time, centralized production will be performed with a printing facility (digital photographic printer) and personnel assignment in consideration of peak production capacity. For this reason, there is room for printing equipment and personnel except during peak hours, and there are idle equipment and personnel. Further, control of the printing equipment such as the order of print processing and the switching timing of the paper width of the photographic paper (paper) is left to the judgment of each operator, and the overall efficiency is not considered.

After the print processing at the photo processing laboratory L, the corresponding print result (photo print) and the used media are put in a DP bag, and the products are sorted for each agency ABC.
In this way, the collection service (collection vehicle) delivers the DP bags containing the photo prints and the media sorted for each agency ABC to the agency ABC regularly (after 9 o'clock in the illustrated example). ) And return to each agency ABC.
Finally, at each agency ABC, a DP bag containing photo prints and media is handed over to the customer in exchange for the price.
JP 2003-203170 A

  For this reason, the digital photo printer can be operated relatively efficiently during the lot grouping. However, when considering a long time unit such as one day or one week depending on the case, a plurality of digital photo printers can be operated. As a result, the operation of digital photo printers loaded with photographic paper of a specific paper width is concentrated, or the operation is concentrated at a specific time, and conversely, the time when other digital photo printers are not operated becomes long, Alternatively, when one digital photo printer is used, the number of magazine exchanges increases, and it is necessary to stop the operation during the magazine exchange, and the magazine exchange may take a relatively long time. There has been a problem that it may result in a long time when the system is not operating.

  In addition, as in Patent Document 1, when transferring from a customer's own PC or the like to a photo processing laboratory from a store terminal or the like, or transferring from an agency to the photo processing laboratory using order media. In a digital photo print ordering method using a digital image as in the case of a digital image, each order is integrated with a customer's order image and corresponding order information. For each order image for each order, the customer's order image and order information must be read, and for each order image for each order, if both the order image and order information are not read, Since the quantity and the type of paper width cannot be grasped, there is a problem that it is impossible to make a plan in advance and efficient photo print production is not possible.

In addition, because the photo processing lab cannot predict when and what kind of orders will arrive, the DP bag containing the ordering media will be misdelivered, delayed or lost, or the order may be mistransferred, delayed or lost. There was a problem that timely warning for trouble and recovery were difficult. Conventionally, there has been a problem that in most cases, a customer receives an inquiry to know or detect a trouble or abnormality. For example, an order by order transfer (collection) using a DP bag is a system that processes the amount collected and delivered to the photo processing lab, so if some factor (for example, if the agency forgot to hand it over to the collection car, If the DP bag does not reach the photo processing laboratory due to a loss during collection, etc., there is a problem that the problem does not occur until a complaint is received from the user. In addition, orders received by transfer using communication means are systems that process the amount transferred to the photo processing lab system, so order information due to some factors (for example, data loss due to server failure or communication trouble) When the order image does not reach the photo processing laboratory, there is a problem that the problem is not detected until a complaint is received from the user.

  Furthermore, orders for digital photo prints using the Internet due to the use of the broadband, so-called surge in demand for so-called net print orders, concentration of orders on specific days of the week and time zones, and the increase in image file capacity due to the high pixel count of digital cameras and camera phones Due to the increase and the like, even in the system for receiving an order online, it takes time to transfer the order (order image + order information) to the photo processing laboratory, and there is a problem similar to the above case. Specifically, due to cost factors, since the line capacity between the center and the photo processing laboratory (system) is smaller than between the customer terminal or the store reception desk and the reception center, the order (order) is placed. Orders from over-the-counter reception desks that are concentrated on the night of a concentrated weekend and the evening of the first day of the week will be waiting to be transferred for several hours or more, and customer order information and order images will not be delivered to the photo processing laboratory There was a problem.

  The first object of the present invention is to eliminate the above-mentioned problems of the prior art, and to make a production plan for efficiently processing customer orders in a photo processing laboratory. It is an object of the present invention to provide a digital photo order processing system capable of efficiently producing photo prints to be performed.

  In addition to the above object, a second object of the present invention is to provide a digital photo order processing system that enables timely warning and quick recovery for order troubles in a photo processing laboratory.

  In order to achieve the first and second objects, according to a first aspect of the present invention, an order image of a customer associated with each other and a photo processing lab that has received the order information according to the order information are the order image. A digital photo order processing system for creating a photo print of the customer, wherein the order information of the customer is transferred to the photo processing lab with priority over the order image by a first transfer means, and after the transfer of the order information is completed The order image corresponding to the order information is transferred to the photo processing laboratory by a second transfer unit, and the photo print processing is performed based on the order information transferred by the first transfer unit in the photo processing laboratory. And producing the photographic print of the order image transferred by the second transfer means according to the prepared production plan. It is intended to provide a digital photo order processing system.

Here, before the order information of the customer is transferred by the first transfer means, the order information of the customer is input, and before the order image of the customer is transferred by the second transfer means. It is preferable to input the order image of the customer.
Whether or not the order image of the customer corresponding to the order information transferred preferentially has been transferred to the photo processing lab in order to create the photo print of the order image according to the production plan. If the order image is not transferred, it is preferable to wait for the transfer of the order image, confirm the transfer of the order image, and create the photo print of the order image.

In the photo processing laboratory, after the photo print of the order image is created, the created photo print is delivered to the customer or a person designated by the customer.
The order information includes at least orderer information, order date / time or delivery date, print size, number of prints, finishing type, photo merchandise type, and print receiving method. Further, as optional information, the order image feature (file format) , Capacity, various information at the time of shooting, a reduced image, etc.).

  Further, when there are a plurality of customer orders and the order information of a later order is input during the transfer of the order image of the previous order by the second transfer means, the first transfer means It is preferable to interrupt the transfer of the order image of the previous order by the transfer means, and to preferentially transfer the order information of the subsequent order to the photo processing laboratory, and further, the first transfer means During the interruption transfer of the order information of the subsequent order, the first transfer unit temporarily stops the transfer of the order image of the previous order by the second transfer unit, and transfers the order information of the subsequent order. After the end, the second transfer means that has been paused resumes the transfer of the order image of the previous order, or during the interrupt transfer of the order information of the subsequent order by the first transfer means, The previous transfer means by the second transfer means; Preferably carried out in parallel with the transfer of statements of order image.

That is, when there are a plurality of customer orders and the order information of the subsequent order is input during the transfer of the order image of the previous order by the second transfer means, the first transfer means Interrupt the transfer of the order image of the previous order by the transfer means, temporarily stop the transfer of the order image of the previous order, and preferentially transfer the order information of the subsequent order to the photo processing laboratory. Preferably, after the transfer of the order information of the subsequent order is completed, the second transfer means resumes the transfer of the order image of the previous order that has been paused.
In the transfer of the order image of the previous order by the second transfer unit, the order image of the previous order is transferred in parallel during the interrupt transfer of the order information of the subsequent order by the first transfer unit. If this is possible, the transfer of the order image of the previous order may be performed in parallel without interruption.

Further, it is preferable that the first transfer unit and the second transfer unit transmit the order information and the order image of the customer as digital data to the photo processing laboratory, respectively.
Alternatively, the first transfer means transmits the order information of the customer as digital data to the photo processing laboratory, and the second transfer means transmits a digital image recording medium on which the order image of the customer is recorded. Is preferably delivered to the photo processing laboratory.
The first transfer means and the second transfer means both deliver the digital image recording medium on which the order information and the order image of the customer are recorded together or to the photo processing laboratory. Is preferred.

  In order to achieve the first and second objects, the second aspect of the present invention includes means for inputting an order image of a customer who orders a photographic print and its order information in association with each other; First transfer means for transferring the inputted order information of the customer to the photo processing lab in preference to transfer of the corresponding order image, and corresponding to the order information after the transfer of the order information of the customer is completed. A second transfer means for transferring the order image of the customer to the photo processing lab, and an efficient photo print process provided in the photo processing lab and according to the order information transferred by the first transfer means Planning means for making a production plan for the customer, and copying the order image corresponding to the order information of the customer transferred by the second transfer means according to the production plan. And print processing, there is provided a digital photo order processing system characterized by having a photo print processing means for creating the photographic print of the order image of the customer.

  Further, the photo processing lab is provided to check whether the order image corresponding to the order information for which the production plan has been made has arrived and to wait for the order image. It is preferable that image detection means for detecting an image is provided, and the photo print processing means performs photo print processing on the order image of the customer detected by the image detection means in accordance with the production plan.

In addition, it is preferable that the photo processing laboratory has a delivery unit that delivers the photo print of the order image of the customer created by the photo print processing unit to the customer or a person designated by the customer, The delivery means is a delivery means for delivering the photo print to deliver to the customer, a person designated by the customer, or a destination designated by the customer, or delivered at a store of the photo processing laboratory. The photographic print is preferably delivered to the customer or a person designated by the customer.
The order information includes at least orderer information, order date / time or delivery date, print size, number of prints, finishing type, photo merchandise type, and print receiving method. Further, as optional information, the order image feature (file format) , Capacity, various information at the time of shooting, a reduced image, etc.).

  Further, when there are a plurality of customer orders and the order information of a later order is input during the transfer of the order image of the previous order by the second transfer means, the first transfer means It is preferable to interrupt the transfer of the order image of the previous order by the transfer means, and to preferentially transfer the order information of the subsequent order to the photo processing laboratory, and further, the first transfer means During the interruption transfer of the order information of the subsequent order, the first transfer unit temporarily stops the transfer of the order image of the previous order by the second transfer unit, and transfers the order information of the subsequent order. After the end, the second transfer means that has been paused resumes the transfer of the order image of the previous order, or during the interrupt transfer of the order information of the subsequent order by the first transfer means, The previous transfer means by the second transfer means; Preferably carried out in parallel with the transfer of statements of order image.

That is, when there are a plurality of customer orders and the order information of the subsequent order is input during the transfer of the order image of the previous order by the second transfer means, the first transfer means Interrupt the transfer of the order image of the previous order by the transfer means, temporarily stop the transfer of the order image of the previous order, and preferentially transfer the order information of the subsequent order to the photo processing laboratory. Preferably, after the transfer of the order information of the subsequent order is completed, the second transfer means resumes the transfer of the order image of the previous order that has been paused.
In the transfer of the order image of the previous order by the second transfer unit, the order image of the previous order is transferred in parallel during the interrupt transfer of the order information of the subsequent order by the first transfer unit. If this is possible, the transfer of the order image of the previous order may be performed in parallel without interruption.

The first transfer means and the second transfer means are preferably communication means for transmitting the order information and the order image of the customer as digital data to the photo processing laboratory, respectively.
Further, the first transfer means is a communication means for transmitting the order information of the customer as digital data to the photo processing laboratory, and the second transfer means stores the order image of the customer. A delivery means for delivering the digital image recording medium to the photo processing laboratory is preferable.
Further, the first transfer means and the second transfer means are delivery means for delivering a digital image recording medium on which the order information and the order image of the customer are recorded together or respectively to the photo processing laboratory. preferable.

According to the present invention, it is possible to make a production plan in advance from the contents of the customer's order, in particular, the paper width switching timing of the printer, the order processing device and the input timing, etc., and produce digital photo prints based on the production plan. can do. In particular, according to the present invention, it is possible to predict when an order (number of sheets, size, priority, image type, etc.) will be received. Therefore, characteristics of production equipment (capacity, compatible paper width, finishing, etc.) It is possible to make a production plan that takes into account the remaining amount of paper and the paper width switching timing, and there is a remarkable effect that digital photo prints can be efficiently produced based on this production plan.

In addition, according to the present invention, the customer order information corresponding to the customer order image is transferred to the photo processing lab, so what kind of order (order image) arrives at the photo processing lab by what time. Anomalies can be detected if they can be predicted and do not arrive within that time. For example, in the case of a system configuration in which order information is transferred using communication means, if the order image corresponding to the order information received in advance does not arrive within a certain time (or within the estimated time), the system side of the photo processing laboratory Abnormalities can be automatically detected / displayed. Also, in the case of a system configuration in which order information is transferred using media, an abnormality can be automatically detected / displayed on the system side of the photo processing laboratory if an order image corresponding to the order information is not input within a certain time. According to the present invention, when there is no order received at the agency, a message indicating no order can be transferred to the photo processing laboratory.
Therefore, according to the present invention, it is possible to solve the conventional problem of detecting an abnormality by receiving an inquiry from a customer, and to detect and cope with the abnormality in advance, that is, to deal with an order trouble in a photo processing laboratory. It enables timely warnings and quick recovery, and on the contrary, it can explain the occurrence of anomalies and how to deal with them to customers and improve customer service.

Further, according to the present invention, when the order information of the customer is transferred by the communication method, and the transfer of the order image of the customer corresponding to this is based on the delivery of the medium on which the order image is recorded, there is no order received at the agency store or the like. In this case, since the order information is not transferred, it can be determined that there is no order at the corresponding agency, and it can be removed from the target of the collection service such as media and the collection work can be made efficient.
Furthermore, according to the present invention, the photo processing lab can grasp the features of the order image ordered in advance, for example, a reduced image such as a thumbnail image, so that the image verification of the reduced image (image feature) received in advance and The result of the correction trial is reflected in the production plan, and an appropriate photo print comparable to the manual level can be automatically produced.

  A digital photo order processing system according to the present invention will be described in detail below based on a preferred embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram showing an outline of an embodiment of a digital photo order processing system according to the present invention.
A digital photo order processing system (hereinafter referred to as an order processing system) 10 shown in the figure includes an ordering terminal 12 for ordering a digital image ordered by a customer, and a photo print using the customer's digital order image upon receiving the customer's order. And a communication means such as the Internet or LAN used to transfer customer orders (order data) including digital order images from the ordering terminal 12 to the photo lab 14. (Communication line) 16 and delivery means 18 for delivering the created photo print from the photo lab 14 to the ordering terminal 12 side.

  The ordering terminal 12 includes an input unit 20 including an image input unit 20a for inputting an image file (digital image data) of a customer's order image and an information input unit 20b for inputting customer's order information, and the customer's order image and customer's order image. The order creation unit 22 that creates a customer order (order data) by associating (linking) with the order information, and prioritizing only the order information corresponding to the customer order prior to the customer order image by the communication method. The first transfer unit 24a for transferring and the transfer unit 24 including the second transfer unit 24b for transferring the order image of the customer order at an appropriate timing after the transfer of the customer order information is completed.

Here, the ordering terminal 12 reads out an image file (digital image data) from the main body or media of the digital camera or camera-equipped mobile phone (hereinafter, generically referred to as a digital camera) by the customer himself, and orders images for ordering photo prints. When order information is input and order data is created and transferred to the photo lab 14, the customer terminal such as the customer's own PC or server may be used. Further, when the communication function of the customer's own digital camera can be used, the digital camera itself may be a customer terminal. Further, the customer's own mobile phone with a digital camera may be the customer terminal. The ordering terminal 12 is an automatic reception device at the store when the customer brings the main body or media such as a digital camera to the store or the photo lab 14 and creates the order data. May be. Further, the ordering terminal 12 may be a storefront reception device or a business terminal when the customer's order data is created by an operator of the store or the photo laboratory 14. When a customer brings a main body or media such as a digital camera to a store or a photo lab 14 store, the operator uses the store reception desk or the customer himself / herself uses the store front reception desk. It is read out from the digital camera main body, media, etc., the customer's order image is selected, the order information is input, customer order data is created and transferred to the photo lab 14.
By the way, when the ordering terminal 12 is a storefront reception device, a business terminal, or an automatic reception device of the photo laboratory 14, the communication means 16 is preferably a dedicated line such as a LAN.

Image input section 20a of the input unit 20, the digital camera main body of the cellular phone with the main body, a camera and smart media ^TM, memory sticks ^TM and SD ^TM digital camera or camera phone, such as (hereinafter collectively referred to as digital camera) for Digital image recording medium (hereinafter referred to as a medium), an image file including digital image data from a medium such as a CD-R or a photo CD, etc., and input to the order creation unit 22 And an input port for reading an image file from the camera-equipped mobile phone body, and a media drive for loading a medium into a slot provided in the ordering terminal 12 and reading the image file from the loaded medium.

  The information input unit 20b of the input unit 20 is used to input order information necessary for ordering digital photographs of customer order images. For example, the order information includes at least orderer information, order date and / or delivery date, Print size, number of prints, finish types such as gloss, matte and mat, photo product types (normal print, frame print, sticker print, album print, print calendar, print T-shirt, print mug, print mouse pad, etc. Photo gifts It is configured by an operation system such as a keyboard and a mouse for inputting a type of photo print product such as a product) and a print receiving method. Further, the information input unit 20b preferably inputs the features of the customer's order image (file format, capacity, various information at the time of shooting, reduced image, etc.) as arbitrary information.

  Here, in the case where the ordering terminal 12 is a customer terminal or an automatic reception machine of a dealer or photo lab 14, the orderer information is customer identification if it is given from customer information, for example, the photo lab 14. Information (customer (member) ID, etc.), customer name, customer address, etc. In the case where the ordering terminal 12 is an in-store reception device, a business terminal, or an automatic reception device of an agency store or photo lab 14, the orderer information includes identification information (orderer ID), store name, Although it is an address, identification information (ordering terminal ID), a store name, and an installation address of a store front desk machine, a business terminal, or an automatic machine itself may be used. In this case, the order information may include customer information (customer ID, customer name, customer address) simultaneously with the orderer information.

The customer's print receiving method, that is, the method of delivering the print to the customer, is a method in which the photo print output from the photo lab 14 is directly mailed or delivered from the photo lab 14 to the customer, or is delivered from the photo lab 14 to a distributor. There are a method of mailing or delivering to a customer from a store, a method of handing it to a customer who visits a store or a photo lab 14 store. Instead of the customer, it may be mailed or delivered to a person designated by the customer or a destination designated by the customer, or may be directly delivered to the person designated by the customer. By the way, when a photo print is delivered from the photo lab 14 to a secondary store, it is preferable to include such information in the order information as a delivery method designated by the orderer.
The features of the order image accompanying the customer order information include a reduced image of the order image (for example, a thumbnail image), the file format / capacity of the image file, various information at the time of shooting, and the like.

  The order creation unit 22 associates (links) the customer order image input from the image input unit 20a of the input unit 20 with the customer order information input from the information input unit 20b, and the order image and its order Create customer order data including order information. In the order data used in the present invention, order identification information (hereinafter referred to as ID) for identifying the corresponding or corresponding order information is attached to the order image, and the corresponding or corresponding order is included in the order information. The same order ID for specifying an image is attached, and even if the order image and the order information are handled as different files, the search is performed using the order ID so that the order data can be linked as one order data. . When there are a plurality of order images in one order, the order image and the order information may each have an image ID for specifying each order image in addition to the order ID described above.

In the present invention, the order image and the link means for associating the order information with the order image are not particularly limited. For example, an order image and a part of the file name of the order information are ordered ( Order) A unique ID such as a number is assigned to each other and linked,
In the case where both media are used separately, for example, a system in which unique IDs such as order numbers are linked to media identification information (which may be files) such as volume labels and the like can be applied.
In addition, in the method performed by the web order screen and application software described later, the customer's digital image input by the image input unit 20a is browsed and selected, the order image is selected, and the selected order image is collectively processed. Alternatively, by individually inputting order information from the information input unit 20b, the customer order image and the order information are automatically associated with each other, particularly when order data is generated. It is not necessary to provide the order creation unit 22.

  The transfer unit 24 separately transfers the customer order images and order information associated with each other as one order data (digital data) in the order creation unit 22 and transfers them in a communication manner via the communication means 16. The first transfer unit 24a is for transmitting the customer order information preferentially with respect to the corresponding customer order image, and the second transfer unit is the first transfer unit. After the preferential transfer of the customer order information by the unit 24a, the customer order image is transferred via the communication means 16. Here, the transfer timing of the customer order information by the first transfer unit 24a may be set for each order, that is, each time the order creation unit 22 associates the customer order image with the order information as one order data. Time may be summarized. Details of the priority transfer of the customer order information by the first transfer unit 24a of the transfer unit 24 and the transfer of the customer order image by the second transfer unit will be described later.

Here, the order from the ordering terminal 12 to the photo lab 14, that is, the input of the customer's order image and order information by the input unit 20, the association (link) by the order creation unit 22, and the customer's order by the transfer unit 24 The priority transfer of information and the subsequent transfer of the customer order image are preferably performed by a method using a Web (Web) order screen provided via the communication means 16 such as the Internet. You may carry out by the system using the application software supplied separately by Download etc. Here, the provision of the web order screen, the distribution of the application software CD-ROM, and the provision of downloadable application software are performed by the operator or provider of the digital order processing system of the present invention or the photo lab 14. preferable.

  The photo processing laboratory 14 includes a first receiving unit 26a that preferentially receives (receives) customer order information from the ordering terminal 12, and a second receiving unit 26b that receives (receives) a customer order image. And an order for accumulating a customer order image received by the second receiving unit 26b, and a production planning unit 28 that makes an efficient photo print processing production plan in accordance with the customer order information received by the first receiving unit 26a. Confirm that the image database (hereinafter referred to as DB) 30 and the order image of the customer corresponding to the order information of the customer who made the production plan planned by the production planning unit 28 are stored in the order image DB 30. An image detection unit 32 that detects a customer order image, and a photo preview of the customer order image detected by the image detection unit 32 according to the production plan planned by the production plan unit 28. A digital photo printer (hereinafter referred to as a photo printer) 34 for creating a photo and a photo print created by the photo printer 34 according to a print receiving method in the customer order information or a delivery method designated by the orderer (agency store) And a delivery section 36 that delivers to a customer or a person designated by the customer (destination) or an orderer (agency store).

  The receiving unit 26 is for receiving the customer order information and the customer order image from the ordering terminal 12, and the first receiving unit 26 a is prioritized by the first transfer unit 24 a of the transfer unit 24 of the ordering terminal 12. The order information of the customer transferred to is received, the received order information of the customer is transmitted to the production planning unit 28, and the second receiving unit 26b is transferred by the second transfer unit 24b of the transfer unit 24 of the ordering terminal 12. The customer's order image is received, and the received customer's order image is transmitted to the order image DB 30. Here, the order image DB 30 stores and accumulates the customer order images transferred from the second transfer unit 24b of the ordering terminal 12 and transmitted from the second receiving unit 26b.

The production planning unit 28 preferentially transfers it by the first transfer unit 24a of the ordering terminal 12, and makes an efficient photo print processing production plan in advance according to the customer order information received by the first receiving unit 26a. More specifically, using the customer order information transmitted from the first receiving unit 26a, a new production plan is created in advance, or a production plan exists before the photo print production by the photo printer 34 is started. Are edited, a new production plan is re-established, and the produced production plan is stored in the production plan DB 28a.
Since the production planning unit 28 can predict what order (for example, the number of prints, print size, priority, image type, etc.) will be entered at the timing based on the contents of the customer order information. Taking into account the characteristics of the printer 34 (for example, capacity, corresponding paper width, finishing, etc.) and the remaining amount of photographic paper (paper), a plan is set for the timing of switching the paper width of the photographic printer 34, the timing of order insertion into the order processing apparatus, and the like. Therefore, an efficient production plan for photographic prints can be made in advance.

Here, the main planning elements of such a production plan are the print size / number of copies / delivery date in the order information and the estimated arrival time of the order image. The estimated arrival time of the order image is the communication means 16 such as the Internet. The prediction is made systematically depending on the transfer form such as delivery by media by a collection and delivery service or the like. For example, as a prediction example of arrival time, in the case of collection by a delivery vehicle, the time required for the delivery vehicle to arrive at the lab may be set to + α. The transfer end time calculated on the basis of the load and the line speed may be + α.
Here, the production planning unit 28 edits the production plan every time the first receiving unit 26a receives customer order information, that is, every time customer order information is transmitted from the first receiving unit 26a. Although it is preferable to correct it, it may be performed every predetermined number of orders or every predetermined time.
The customer order information in the production plan stored in the production plan DB 28a and the customer order image stored in the order image DB 30 both have the same order ID. By using this, both the production plan DB 28a and the order image DB 30 can be searched.

  In accordance with the production plan planned by the production planning unit 28, the image detection unit 32 performs digital print processing on the customer order image corresponding to the customer order information by the photo printer 34, and produces a photo print. After confirming that the order image of the customer corresponding to the order information (order ID) for executing the plan is stored in the order image DB 30, for example, the order image DB 30 is searched using the order ID as a search key. This is for confirming the order image and detecting the order image of the customer. Therefore, in order to execute the production plan, the image detection unit 32 transfers the customer order image corresponding to the customer order information transferred preferentially by the second transfer unit 24b to the second reception unit 26b. It is received and received, and it is confirmed whether or not it is stored in the order image DB 30. If it is not transferred or received, that is, it is not stored, the second transfer unit 24b waits for transfer of the order image ( Standby) and confirms the transfer of the order image by the second transfer unit 24b, the reception by the second receiving unit 26b or the storage in the order image DB 30, and detects the order image of the customer stored in the order image DB 30 To do.

Here, the image detection unit 32 waits for transfer of the order image of the corresponding customer until the time predicted from the customer order information or the time predicted in the production plan. Is not delivered to the photo lab 14, that is, received by the second receiving unit 26b or stored in the order image DB 30, it is detected that an abnormality has occurred and the transfer source is transferred from the second receiving unit 26b. A warning to that effect may be automatically transmitted to the ordering terminal 12 (the second transfer unit 24b) to prompt the transfer, and at the same time, the information is transmitted to the production planning unit 28 for production. The planning unit 28 may review the production plan and refine it. Alternatively, when it is confirmed that the order image corresponding to the predicted time has not arrived, the image detection unit 32 accesses the ordering terminal 12 that is the transfer source and reads the order image in the ordering terminal 12. May be.
In this way, order abnormalities can be detected in advance, order abnormalities can be dealt with quickly, timely warning and quick recovery for order troubles can be made, and customer service can be improved. .

  The photo printer 34 creates a photo print of the customer's order image detected by the image detection unit 32 according to the customer's order according to the production plan planned by the production plan unit 28 using the customer's order information. Any conventionally known digital photographic printer can be used. Here, the photographic printer 34 obtains the production plan based on the customer's order information and the customer's order image corresponding thereto from the order image DB 30 according to the production plan in the image detection unit 32, for example, by order ID search, by the customer's order image. May be received from the image detection unit 32 after detection. Alternatively, the photographic printer 34 receives the production plan from the production planning unit 28, and directly searches the order image DB 30 by, for example, the order image DB 30 according to the received production plan, and reads out the corresponding order image. Also good. Alternatively, the photographic printer 34 itself may read the production plan directly from the production plan DB 28a, and similarly read the corresponding order image directly from the order image DB 30 according to the read production plan. Note that the photographic printer 34 does not directly read out the corresponding order image from the order image DB 30, sends the acquired production plan to the image detection unit 32, causes the image detection unit 32 to detect the corresponding order image, and then detects the image detection unit. You may make it receive the order image which 32 detected.

  When the order information of the customer includes the feature of the ordered image to be ordered, for example, a reduced image such as a thumbnail image, the photographic printer 34 of the photographic lab 14 preliminarily reduces the ordered image to be ordered. Therefore, it is possible to perform image verification and correction trials using reduced images received in advance, and to reflect the results in the production plan and automatically produce appropriate photo prints that are comparable to the manual level. it can.

The delivery unit 36 sends the photographic print created by the photographic printer 34 according to the print receiving method in the customer's order information or the delivery method specified by the orderer (agency store) or the person (destination) designated by the customer or customer. Is handed over to a person (agency store).
When the customer's print receiving method in the customer's order information is a designated destination such as the customer's home, the delivery unit 36 delivers a photographic print of the customer's order image to the designated address. (Public corporation, delivery company, etc.) In this case, the price of the photo print may be determined by a publicly known method such as online payment using a credit card, exchange with delivery by the delivery means 18, or payment by bill.

Further, when the customer's print receiving method in the customer's order information is the agency, the delivery unit 36 sends the photo print output by the photo printer 34 from the photo lab 14 to a dedicated delivery means (collection of collection service). The vehicle may be delivered by car 18 and handed over to the customer who has visited the store at the agent store in exchange for the price, or may be mailed or delivered by the delivery means 18 as described above.
Further, when the customer's print receiving method in the customer order information is the store of the photo lab 14, the delivery unit 36 sends the photo print output by the photo printer 34 to the customer who visited the store of the photo lab 14. Hand it over in exchange for the price.

The communication means 16 is a communication network or communication line used for transferring a customer's order image and order information (order data) from the ordering terminal 12 to the photo lab 14. A conventionally known communication network such as a LAN or a communication line can be used.
In the above-described example, the Internet and other communication means 16 are used as means for transferring customer order information and order images from the ordering terminal 12 to the photo lab 14, but the present invention is not limited to this. , Optical recording media, magnetic recording media, delivery using digital recording media such as various types of memory media, etc. As shown by the dotted lines in FIG. May be used for delivery from the photo lab 14 to the ordering terminal 12 side.

  For example, the order information of the customer's order received by the ordering terminal 12 such as a storefront of the agency store is transferred to the photo lab 14 via the communication means 16 such as the Internet as needed, and the order image corresponding to the order information is transferred to the customer. In the case of an express order according to the request of the user, a media drive is provided in the second transfer unit 24b by the communication means 16 such as the Internet, and in the case of a normal order, the medium is recorded on the media drive, or the image input unit The medium 20a is used for recording on the medium, and the medium on which the order image is recorded is transferred to the photo lab 14 using a dedicated delivery means 18 such as a collection / delivery service or a collection service, and the second receiving unit 26b. Also, a media drive may be provided and loaded in a slot of the media drive to read out the order image. In this case, it can be used as a follow-up for an offline installation order system (KIOSK).

Next, when the customer order information cannot be transferred by the communication means 16 such as the Internet due to a communication failure of the communication means 16 or the like, from the ordering terminal 12, for example, the customer terminal, in particular, the store reception desk of the agency store, etc. Order information and order images of customer orders stored in the ordering terminal 12 are respectively provided with media drives in the first and second transfer units 24a and 24b, and recorded separately on different media by these media drives. Alternatively, the media drive of the image input unit 24a is used to separately record on media different from each other, and the media on which the customer order information is recorded and the media on which the order image is recorded are collected and delivered together, a collection service, etc. Are transferred to the photo lab 14 using the dedicated delivery means 18 of the above. In the photo lab 14, the order information is first read from the media in which the customer order information is written by the media drive provided in the first receiving unit 26a, and the production planning unit 28 makes a production plan. 2 The order image is read from the media on which the customer's order image is written by the media drive provided in the receiving unit 26b, and is printed by the photo printer 34.
Photo prints may be output. In this case, it is effective for follow-up at the time of communication failure.

In these cases, the media in which the customer's order image has been written and transferred to the photo lab 14 may be returned to the customer together with the result printed by the photo printer 34.
The digital photo order processing system of the present invention is basically configured as described above.

The digital photo order processing system of the present invention will be specifically described below with reference to examples.
(Example 1)
FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram for explaining an embodiment of the digital photo order processing system according to the present invention and its operation.
The order processing system 10a shown in the figure is a form in which an ordering terminal 12 such as a customer terminal (PC) or a storefront and a photo lab 14 are directly connected to each other, and a photo lab as a communication means 16 from the ordering terminal 12 via the Internet 16a. 14 shows a form in which an online order is received and the photographic print P output from the photographic laboratory 14 is received by mail 18a. For example, the order processing system 10a of the present embodiment represents a form in which a customer places a print order from the home to the photo lab 14 via the Internet 16a and receives the print result by mail.

In the order processing system 10a, first, when a customer's digital image (image file) is recorded in the digital camera 38a, the digital camera 38a is connected to the ordering terminal 12, and the customer's image file is received from the digital camera 38a as an order image. Read as. Also, if the customer's image file is recorded on CD-R 38b, FD (flexible disk), digital camera media such as SmartMedia ^™ and SD ^™, and other media 38c, CD-R 38b and media 38c are ordered. It is loaded into the media drive (image input unit 20a; see FIG. 1) of the terminal 12, and the customer's image file is read out as an order image from the CD-R 38b or the media 38c. Further, the ordering terminal 12 reads a digital image read by the scanner or an image file in the HDD as an order image.
Hereinafter, the digital camera 38a, the CD-R 38b, and other media 38c are collectively referred to as the image supply media 38.
Here, the ordering terminal 12 (the image input unit 20a; see FIG. 1) confirms the location of the image file in the image input target and obtains a list of image files, and the image file itself to be ordered. And the function to read.

Next, the image to be ordered is displayed on the display device of the ordering terminal 12, the order image is selected, and the order information is input.
With respect to the selected order image to be printed, the order contents (size, number of sheets, etc.) are set collectively or individually by the ordering terminal 12 (the order information input unit 20b; see FIG. 1), and the receiving means and method. If necessary, enter customer information and orderer information. As a result, the order image and the order information are associated with each other at the ordering terminal 12 (the order creating unit 22).
Thus, the order information input at the ordering terminal 12 and associated with the order image is preferentially received from the ordering terminal 12 (the first transfer unit 24a thereof; see FIG. 1) using communication means such as the Internet 16a. To the photo lab 14. Similarly, after the order information is transferred, the corresponding order image is transferred from the ordering terminal 12 (second transfer unit 24b; see FIG. 1) to the photo lab 14.

At this time, it is preferable to transfer the order information every time a customer order is generated. However, when there are a plurality of orders (orders), it is preferable to send them continuously. In particular, when the order information for a plurality of orders is waiting to be transferred, such as immediately after returning from the line abnormality of the Internet 16a, the order information for the plurality of orders is continuously transferred.
Even if the order image of the previous order is being transferred, if the subsequent order is generated, the transfer of the order image of the previous order is interrupted without waiting for the transfer of the order image of the previous order. Then, it is preferable to interrupt, transfer the order information of the subsequent order, and resume the transfer of the order image of the previous order after the transfer of the order information of the subsequent order. Here, if the order image of the previous order can be transferred in parallel during the interrupt transfer of the order information of the subsequent order, the transfer of the order image of the previous order is not transferred, but transferred in parallel. May be. The parallel transfer of the order image and the order information may be performed on a multi-channel line when there is a multi-channel line, or may be performed in a time-sharing manner on a single-channel line. Also good.
Note that the order image stored in the ordering terminal 12 is transferred to the photo lab 14 at an appropriate time after the transfer of the order information, but if there is a next order during the order image transfer, In parallel with the order reception processing (image input, order information input (association) and order information transfer (interrupt)), the image is transferred to the photo lab 14 in order (order) units.

The first and second transfer means by the first and second transfer units 24a and 24b in the system form of the first embodiment correspond to the following.
1st transfer means ・ Transfer data Order information ・ Transfer unit 1 order unit ・ Transfer route From the ordering terminal (customer PC / store reception desk) 12 to the photo lab 14
・ Transfer timing Immediately after receiving an order or when there is an order information transfer waiting line connection
Immediately after continuation ・ Processing priority Image input / order information input> Order information transfer> Order image transfer Second transfer means ・ Transfer data Order image ・ Transfer unit 1 order unit ・ Transfer route Order terminal (customer PC / store reception) Machine) 12 to photo lab 14
-Transfer timing When there is a waiting state for order image transfer and the line is connected-Processing priority Image input / order information input> Order information transfer> Order image transfer

By the way, in the photo lab 14, after the transfer of the order information is completed, the production plan is prepared without waiting for the transfer of the corresponding order image, stored in the production plan DB 28a, the transfer of the order image is waited, and the photo printer 34 is prepared. The digital print process is performed to output a photographic print P. After print output, the photographic print P is mailed to the orderer (order terminal 12) side or the orderer designated destination (designator) by mail (mail) 18a.

Next, FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing flow of the first embodiment, that is, transfer of order information and order images of a plurality of customer orders in the order processing system 10a.
In the following, with reference to FIG. 3, it is assumed that the ordering terminal 12 is a user PC connected to the server, and the order information and order images for customer orders between the user PC 12 and the photo lab 14 and the flow of print results are described. To do.
As shown in the figure, on the user PC 12, for the order # 1, the customer image is read and displayed on the display device, the display image is browsed, the order image is selected, and is associated with the selected order image. Order information is input, order data is generated, and order # 1 is created.
When the order # 1 is created by the user PC 12, first, the order information # 1 is transferred from the user PC 12 to the photo lab 14 via the server. When the transfer is completed, the photo lab 14 receives the order by the receiving unit 26 and returns a receipt signal of the order information # 1 to the user PC 12 via the server.
In the photo lab 14, after the order is received by the receiving unit 26, the order information # 1 is sent to the production plan unit 28, the production plan is edited based on the order information # 1, and the edited production plan is stored in the production plan DB 28a. Is done.

On the other hand, when the user PC 12 receives a return of the receipt signal of the order information # 1 from the photo lab 14, the transfer of the order image # 1 of the order # 1 is started via the server and the next order # 2 Image browsing, order image selection, and order information input are performed, and order # 2 is generated.
Thereafter, when the order # 2 is generated in the user PC 12, the transfer of the order image # 1 of the order # 1 is interrupted and temporarily interrupted, and the transfer of the order information # 2 to the photo lab 14 is performed by the server. Be started via. When the transfer of the order information # 2 is completed, a receipt signal of the order information # 2 is returned from the photo lab 14 to the user PC 12 via the server, and when the receipt signal of the order information # 2 is received by the user PC 12 The transfer of the order image # 1 of the order # 1 is resumed.
On the other hand, in the photo lab 14, an order is received by the receiving unit 26, a production plan is edited based on the order information # 2 by the production plan unit 28, and stored in the production plan DB 28a.

Here, when the transfer of the order image # 1 of the order # 1 from the user PC 12 to the photo lab 14 via the server is completed, the photo lab 14 stores the transferred order image # 1 in the order image DB 30. The user PC 12 starts to transfer the order image # 2 of the order # 2 to the photo laboratory 14 via the server.
Thereafter, when the transfer of the order image # 2 of the order # 2 from the user PC 12 to the photo lab 14 is completed, the photo lab 14 stores the transferred order image # 2 in the order image DB 30.
In the example shown in FIG. 3, the user PC 12 is connected to the photo lab 14 via a server, and the order information and the order image are transferred and the order information and the order image reception signal are received via the server. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The user PC 12 is directly connected to the photo lab 14 without going through the server, and the order information and the order image are transferred and the order information and the order image reception signal are received by the server. You may go directly without going through.

Here, in the photo printer 34 of the photo laboratory 14 (see FIGS. 1 and 2), the production plan is read from the production plan DB 28a, the target image is acquired from the order image DB 30 according to the production plan, and the printing process is performed. The photo print (# 2) P of the print result # 2 is output and mailed or delivered to the user PC 12 side.
Subsequently, in the photo lab 14, the production plan is read from the production plan DB 28a, the target image is obtained from the order image DB 30 according to the production plan, the printing process, and the print result # 1 of the photo print (# 1) P is output. The photo print (# 1) P of the print result # 1 is mailed or delivered to the user PC 12 side.

Next, FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing a comparison of an example of the print production process in the net order in the first embodiment and the conventional example, when the paper width of the paper is three types (A, B, C). The relationship between the net order and the process in one day of print production is schematically shown in comparison with Example 1 and the conventional example.
In FIG. 4, there is an order reception (◇) of an order A-1 with a paper width A and an order B-1 with a paper width B before 9 o'clock, and orders A-2 and A-3 with a paper width A between 9 o'clock and 15 o'clock. , A-4, A-5, and orders C-1 and C-2 for paper width C (◇), and orders for paper width C for order C-3 (◇) are received from 15:00 to 21:00. It shall be shown that there was.

Here, in the first embodiment, each order information is transferred at the same time as the order reception (◇). Immediately for the order B-1, orders A-1 to A-5 and other orders C-1 to C-3 are the other. After waiting for data transfer (...) For order data transfer including the order image of the order, the order data including the order image is transferred. For this reason, in the first embodiment, each order information is transferred (▽) simultaneously with the order reception (◇), and the production plan is edited for each order information. As a result, at the time of 15 o'clock, 8 orders except for the order C-3 are accepted and the production plan is edited, and the order images are transferred except for the orders A-4, A-5, and C-2. Since it has been completed, the paper of the photographic printer 34 (see FIG. 2) is switched to the paper width B, the print processing of the order B-1 is performed, the order reception of the order C-3 is performed, the production plan is re-edited, and the next Then, after the transfer of the order image of the order A-5, the print width of the order A-1 to A-5 is performed by switching to the paper width A. Finally, after the transfer of the order image of the order C-3 is completed, the paper width C The print processing of orders C-1 to C-3 can be performed.

On the other hand, in the conventional example, the order data in which the order image and the order information are integrated is transferred at the same timing when the order data (order image) is sent in the first embodiment. Therefore, even if the order is sorted at 9 o'clock, the order data transfer has not been completed, so the printing process cannot be performed until the next 15 o'clock sorting.
At the time of sorting at 15:00, since the transfer of the order data of orders A-1 to A-3, B-1 and C-1 has been completed, sorting is performed, and between 15:00 and 21:00 First, the print processing is performed for the order A-1 to A-3 by switching to the paper width A, the order B-1 by switching to the paper width B, and the order C-1 by switching to the paper width C.
Next, at the time of 21:00, the transfer of the order data for that day is all finished, but the order data of orders A-4, A-5, C-2, and C-3 are between 15:00 and 21:00. Since the transfer is completed, sorting is performed, and after 21:00, the paper width A is switched to the order A-4 to A-5, and the paper width C is switched to the order C-2 to C-3.

From the above results, in the conventional example, it is necessary to perform printing processing for each paper width in two times, from 15:00 to 21:00 and after 21:00. Labor is required, and the paper width changeover of the paper is three times as many as five times, which reduces the operating efficiency of equipment and equipment such as a photographic printer and the labor productivity of the operator.
On the other hand, in the first embodiment, printing processing for each paper width can be performed in a short time from 15:00 to 21:00, and the paper width switching of the paper can be performed at least three times in three types. Compared with the conventional example, the operating efficiency of equipment and equipment such as a photographic printer and the labor productivity of the operator can be improved.

(Example 2)
FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram for explaining another embodiment of the digital photo order processing system according to the present invention and its operation.
The order processing system 10b shown in the figure is a form in which a customer places an image supply medium 38 at a storefront of a brokerage store (print shop) 40 and places a print order, and receives a print result at the storefront of the brokerage store 40. Forty storefronts (ordering terminal 12) and the photo lab 14 are directly connected to each other via the Internet 16a for order information transfer, and a CD-R 42 which is an order recording medium is used for order image transfer.

  In this embodiment, when the customer brings the image supply medium 38 to the storefront of the agency store 40 and places a print order, the order image is received at the ordering terminal 12 which is the storefront reception machine of the agency store 40 in the same manner as in the first embodiment. Input and order information are input, and the customer's order is accepted. Thereafter, the received order information is transferred from the ordering terminal 12 to the photo lab 14 via the Internet 16a in the same manner as in the first embodiment. However, unlike the first embodiment, the order image is different from that in the ordering terminal 12. It is recorded on the CD-R 42, stored in the DP bag 44, and transferred from the agency 40 to the photo lab 14 by the collection and delivery service 18b. The photo lab 14 takes out the CD-R 42 from the transferred DP bag 44, reads out the recorded order image, and stores it in the order image DB 30 (see FIG. 1).

Also in this embodiment, in the photo lab 14, after the order information is transferred, the production plan is made and stored in the production plan DB 28a without waiting for the transfer of the CD-R 42 in which the corresponding order image is recorded. After waiting for the reading of the order image from the CD-R 42, the photographic printer 34 performs digital print processing and outputs a photographic print P. After printing, the photo print P is CD-
It is stored in the DP bag 42 together with R42, and is delivered to the agency by the collection and delivery service 18b which is a dedicated delivery means. In the agency store 40, the DP bag 42 in which the photo print P and the CD-R 42 are stored is delivered to the customer who goes to the store in exchange for the price. The customer takes the DP bag 44 home.

Next, a workflow of the digital photo order processing system according to the second embodiment will be described.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a workflow of the digital photo order processing system according to the second embodiment in which a digital photo print is ordered using a storefront reception device.
In order to make a comparison with the conventional example shown in FIG. 9, the customer orders received at the broker stores A, B, and C, the customer order images recorded at the broker stores A, B, and C, the media, Transfer of DP bag with media from B and C to photo lab L, transfer of print and DP bag with media from photo lab L to agency A, B and C and delivery of this DP bag to the customer are shown in FIG. The present invention example shown in FIG. 9 and the conventional example shown in FIG.
Therefore, detailed description of overlapping parts is omitted, and different parts are mainly described.

As shown in the figure, by 19:00 on one day, the agent A receives orders A-1 and A-2 at the agent store A, and the agent B receives an order B-1 The agent C has received orders C-1 to C-4.
At each agency A, B, and C, when each order is received, only order information indicating the contents of the order corresponding to the customer's order image is transferred to the photo lab L via the Internet as needed. An image or a media in which the order image and the order information are written is created, stored in a DP bag in which required order information is written, and stored until a collection / delivery service (collection / delivery vehicle) is received.

At this time, Photo Lab L creates a production plan from the transferred order information (size, number of sheets, finishing type, photo product type, delivery date, receiving means, etc.) every time the transfer of order information for each order is completed. Also, update (edit). In the illustrated example, at 19:00, the update of the print processing production plan for the day is completed.
In this example, the order contents can be grasped from the order information before collecting the DP bag. Therefore, considering which characteristics of the production equipment (number of printers, production capacity, supported paper width, roll length), delivery date, shipment date and time, etc. It is possible to plan which order (order) is to be produced when the paper width is set, and to make a production plan (lot set) for which lot and how to produce.

Subsequently, in the illustrated example, the collection / delivery service collects the DP bag containing the media from each agency after 19:00 and transports it to the photo processing laboratory L.
Next, the photo processing laboratory L collects the DP bags, confirms the arrival of the DP bags and media, sorts them according to the production plan, takes out the media in each DP bag, reads the order image from each media, Each order is pooled for production standby, lots are assembled according to the production plan, printed at the planned equipment, and photographic prints are produced.
Thus, the photo lab L can perform sorting and production (print processing) based on the production plan, and there is little variation and waste due to personal judgment of each operator.

In this embodiment, since the production plan is made before the DP bag is collected, the printing process can be performed in parallel with the acceptance of the DP bag. Therefore, production facilities can be used effectively.
Also, in this embodiment, the order status can be ascertained from time to time, so there is no need to send a collection / delivery service (collected vehicle) to the agency where the order has not been received. Detecting the situation, it is possible to collect by temporary flight. If there is no order received at the agency, a message indicating no order may be transferred to the photo processing laboratory L.

For orders for which the print processing at the photo processing laboratory L has been completed, the corresponding print result (photo print) and the used media are placed in the DP bag, and shipping is sorted for each agency ABC.
In this way, the collection service (collection vehicle) delivers the DP bags containing the photo prints and the media sorted for each agency ABC to the agency ABC regularly (after 9 o'clock in the illustrated example). ) And return to each agency ABC.
Finally, at each agency ABC, a DP bag containing photo prints and media is handed over to the customer in exchange for the price.

In the example shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the order information such as order information and order images is transferred to the photo lab 14 via the communication means 16 such as the Internet. Although it is performed directly from the ordering terminal 12 such as a reception machine to the photo lab 14, the present invention is not limited to this and may be performed via a center server or the like.
FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 are block diagrams of another embodiment of the order processing system of the present invention for transferring order data such as order information and order images via the center server, respectively.

  The order processing systems 50 and 60 shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 include order terminals 52 and 62, center servers 54 and 64, a photo lab 14, and communication means 16 such as the Internet for communicating between them. The transfer unit 24, which is a part of the ordering terminal 12 of the order processing system 10 shown in FIG. 1 and has the center servers 54 and 64, has the order processing shown in FIG. The system 60 has the same configuration as the order processing system 10 shown in FIG. 1 except that the order creation unit 22 and the center server 54 and 64 have been moved. Are given the same numbers and their detailed explanations are omitted. Thus, the form using the center servers 54 and 64 is suitable for the case where the ordering terminals 52 and 62 are constituted by a plurality of customer PCs, store reception machines, automatic reception machines, and the like.

  First, the order processing system 50 shown in FIG. 7 transmits the order data including the order information and the order image created there from the ordering terminal 52 to the center server 54 via the communication means (communication line) 16. The order information of the order data received from the center server 54 is preferentially transferred to the photo lab 14 via the communication means 16, and after transferring the order information, the order image is transferred to the photo lab via the communication means 16. 14 is transferred.

The ordering terminal 52 includes an input unit 20 for inputting order information and an order image, an order creation unit 22 for associating the order information with the order image and creating order data, and the order information and the order image. And a transmission unit 56 that transmits the order data to the center server 54 via the communication unit 16.
The center server 54 receives the order data including the order information and the order image transmitted from the transmitting unit 56 of the ordering terminal 52 via the communication unit 16, and at least the order data received by the receiving unit 58. The first transfer unit 24a that preferentially transfers the order information of the order data received by the memory 59 that temporarily stores the order image and the receiving unit 58 to the photo lab 14 via the communication unit 16, and the transfer of the order information. After that, it has a transfer unit 24 including a second transfer unit 24 b that reads out the order image of the order data from the memory 59 and transfers it to the photo lab 14 via the communication means 16.

Next, the order processing system 60 shown in FIG. 8 transmits the order information and the order image input by the customer from the ordering terminal 62 to the center server 64 via the communication means 16 and received by the center server 64. The order image is created by associating the order image with the order information entered by the customer, and the order information of the order data is preferentially transferred from the center server 64 to the photo lab 14 via the communication means 16 and ordered. After the information is transferred, the order image is transferred to the photo lab 14 via the communication means 16.

  The ordering terminal 62 includes an input unit 20 for inputting order information and an order image, and a communication unit 66 that transmits the order information and the order image input by the input unit 20 to the center server 64 via the communication unit 16. And a display unit 65 for displaying an order information input screen and a control unit 67 for controlling them. The ordering terminal 62 accesses the center server 64 via the communication unit 66 by the control unit 67 and, for example, displays order information for the order image transmitted to the center server 64 on the display unit 65 by an Internet browser or the like. An input screen for inputting is displayed, and the order information can be input by the input unit 20. The ordering terminal 62 displays an input screen or the like, and displays information necessary for enabling the input of order information by the input unit 20 and software such as a plug-in application added to the browser for that purpose. Of course, it can be used under the control of the control unit 67 at the ordering terminal 62.

The center server 64 includes a communication unit 68 that receives order information and an order image transmitted from the communication unit 66 of the ordering terminal 62 via the communication unit 16, and a memory 69 that temporarily stores the order image received by the communication unit 68. The order image read from the memory 69 is associated with the order information of the customer input received by the communication unit 68, and the order creation unit 22 for creating the order data and only the order information of the order data are communicated with the communication means 16. Via the first transfer unit 24a that preferentially transfers to the photo lab 14 and the second transfer unit 24b that transfers the order image of the order data to the photo lab 14 via the communication means 16 after transferring the order information. And a transfer unit 24 comprising:
Here, in response to the access from the ordering terminal 62, the center server 64 reads out the order image from the memory 69 in the order creation unit 22, and information necessary for inputting the order information for the read order image (ordering). Information necessary for an input screen (browser) displayed on the display unit 65 of the terminal 62 and software (plug-in application) are connected to the ordering image information or thumbnail (reduced) image from the communication unit 68, for example, online. To the ordering terminal 62 via the communication means 16.

As a result, the ordering terminal 62 receives these information and software by the communication unit 66, and under the control of the control unit 67, the ordering information for the order image including the order image information and the thumbnail image is displayed on the display unit 65. Displays the input screen.
In the ordering terminal 62, order information is input from the information input unit 20b by the customer to the order image input screen displayed on the display unit 65, and the input order information passes through the control unit 67 and the communication unit 66. The data is transferred to the communication unit 68 of the center server 64 via the communication unit 16.
In the center server 64, the customer-input order information received by the communication unit 68 is sent to the order creation unit 22, and the order creation unit 22 generates order data in which the order image and the customer-input order information are associated with each other. .

Also in the system configuration shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the order information of the customer order is preferentially transferred to the photo lab 14, so the transfer of order data such as the order image of the customer order is completed in the photo lab 14. Needless to say, an efficient production plan can be made based on the order information of the customer order transferred with priority.
In these embodiments, transfer of customer order order information between the center servers 54 and 64 and the photo lab 14, transfer of customer order order images between the ordering terminal 62 and the center server 64, and The order information is input via the communication means 16 such as the Internet. The order information including the order information and the order image of the customer order between the ordering terminal 52 and the center server 54, the center servers 54 and 64, The transfer of the customer order image with the photo lab 14 may be performed not by the communication means 16 but by recording on a recording medium such as a CD-R and by a collection / delivery service or delivery means.

By the way, as a specific embodiment of the order processing system 50 shown in FIG. 7, an ordering terminal (customer PC, store reception machine) 52 which is an order place device and a photo lab 14 are connected via a center server 54. The ordering terminal 52 has an order data creation function, the center server 54 has an order receiving function and a transfer function to the photo lab 14, there is no web service, and the GUI is on the local application side. This is the case. In this embodiment, as the ordering terminal 52, for example, order creation software is supplied in advance by, for example, a CD and downloaded from an installed customer PC, store reception desk, or the center server 54 connected online. The customer PC on which the order creation software is installed can be cited. In the customer PC, the storefront, etc., the order data can be created by the GUI displayed on the display screen.
Here, in the present embodiment, image input and order information input and order data creation by the order terminal (customer PC, store reception machine) 52 are performed in the same manner as the order terminal 12 of the first embodiment shown in FIG.

The order information of the created order data is uploaded from the ordering terminal 52 to the center server 54. After the order information is uploaded, the order image of the order data is transferred to the center server 54.
In general, after transferring the order information and the order image of the order data, the transition to the reception of the next order data is generally performed, but the transfer may be performed in parallel with the reception of the next order data. . That is, the order information and the order image of the previous order data may be transferred in the background for efficiency. This background transfer is effective for transferring an order image that takes time.

The center server 54 transfers the order information uploaded from each ordering terminal 52 to the photo laboratory 14 using the communication means 16. At this time, even when the order image of the previous order is being transferred, the order information of the subsequent order is transferred without interrupting the completion of the transfer of the order image. Alternatively, a method of downloading order information from the center server 54 by an action on the photo lab 14 side may be used.
Next, the center server 54 transfers the order images uploaded and stored from each ordering terminal 52 to the photo lab 14 in order units. Note that the order image is preferably transferred in parallel with the order information transfer. Alternatively, an order image may be downloaded from the center server 54 by an action on the photo lab 14 side.

The first and second transfer means by the first and second transfer units 24a and 24b in the system form of this embodiment correspond to the following.
1st transfer means-Transfer data Order information-Transfer unit 1 order unit-Transfer route From center server 54 to photo lab 14
・ Transfer timing Immediately after order information upload or in a state where there is a wait for order information transfer
Immediately after connection is established-Processing priority Order information transfer> Order image transfer Second transfer means-Transfer data Order image-Transfer unit 1 order unit-Transfer route From center server 54 to photo lab 14
-Transfer timing When there is a waiting state for order image transfer and the line is connected-Processing priority Order information transfer> Order image transfer

  Further, as another specific example of the system form via the center server 64 as in the order processing system 60 shown in FIG. 8, an ordering terminal (customer PC) 62 which is a device at the order place is a web ( A form may be employed in which an order is made to the center server 64 via the Web service, and the order information and the order image are transferred from the center server 64 to the photo lab 14. In this system form, there is a web service, and the GUI is a web page. In this embodiment, for example, the ordering terminal 62 is a customer PC, and the customer PC accesses the center server 64 (web page) via the communication means 16 such as the Internet, and the display unit 65 is displayed by, for example, a browser. An order creation screen or an order information input screen (web page) is displayed, order information for the order image is input using the displayed GUI, and order data in which the order image and the order information are associated is created. It can be said that it is a form.

In the present embodiment, selection and upload (upload) of an order image is performed from the customer PC, which is the ordering terminal 62, to the center server 64, and the customer PC orders, for example, in a local drive (HDD, removable media, etc.). An image is selected and uploaded to the center server 64.
The order information is input from the customer PC (62) to the center server 64, and the order contents (size, number, etc.) are set in a batch or individually for the uploaded order image, and the receiving method and means, and Set customer information as needed.

The order information is transferred from the center server 64 to the photo lab 14, the order information input by the input of the order information is stored in a waiting state, and transferred to the photo lab 14 using the communication means (such as the Internet) 16. Also in this embodiment, it is preferable that the order information is interrupted and transferred without waiting for completion of the transfer of the order image even when the order image of the previous order is being transferred. In this embodiment, the order information may be downloaded by an action on the photo lab 14 side.
The order images are transferred from the center server 64 to the photo lab 14. The order images uploaded and stored from the order terminal (customer PC) 62 are transferred to the photo lab (order) in parallel with the order information transfer. (Lab system) 14. It should be noted that an order image may be downloaded from the center server 64 by an action on the photo lab 14 side.

The first and second transfer means in the system form of this embodiment correspond to the following.
First transfer means Transfer data Order information Transfer unit Order unit Transfer route From the center server 64 to the photo lab 14
・ Transfer timing Immediately after order information is entered and stored, or there is an order information transfer wait
Immediately after the line connection is established in the status, processing priority Image selection and upload / order information input> order information transfer>
Order image transfer Second transfer means Transfer data Order image Transfer unit 1 order unit Transfer route From the center server 64 to the photo lab 14 Transfer timing When there is a waiting state for transferring an order image and the line is connected Processing Priority Image selection and upload / order information input> order information transfer>
Order image transfer

The digital order processing system according to the present invention has been described in detail with reference to various embodiments. However, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various improvements can be made without departing from the gist of the present invention. Of course, you may make changes.

1 is a schematic block diagram showing an outline of an embodiment of a digital photo order processing system according to the present invention. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating one Example of the digital photograph order processing system which concerns on this invention, and its effect | action. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the processing flow of the Example shown in FIG. It is a schematic diagram which compares and shows an example of the process of the print production in the net order in the Example shown in FIG. 2, and a prior art example. It is the model for demonstrating another Example of the digital photo order processing system which concerns on this invention, and its effect | action. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the workflow of the Example shown in FIG. FIG. 6 is a block diagram of another embodiment of the digital order processing system of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a block diagram of another embodiment of the digital order processing system of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the workflow of a prior art example.

Explanation of symbols

10, 10a, 10b, 50, 60 (Digital Photo) Order Processing System 12, 52, 62 Ordering Terminal 14 Photo Processing Lab (Photo Lab)
16 Communication means (communication line)
16a Internet 18 Delivery means 18a Mail 18b Collection / delivery service 20 Input unit 20a Image input unit 20b Information input unit 22 Order creation unit 24 Transfer unit 24a First transfer unit 24b Second transfer unit 26 Reception unit 26a First reception unit 26b Second reception Department 28 Production Planning Department 30 Order Image Database (DB)
32 Image detection unit 34 (digital) photographic printer 36 Delivery unit 38 Image supply medium 38a Digital camera 38b, 42 CD-R
38c Media 40 agency store (print shop)
44 DP bag 54, 64 Center server 56, 66 Transmitter 58, 68 Receiver
59, 69 Memory 65 Display unit 67 Control unit

Claims (20)

A digital photo order processing system for creating a photo print of the order image according to the order information at a photo processing lab that has received the customer order image and the order information associated with each other,
The order information of the customer is transferred to the photo processing laboratory with priority over the order image by a first transfer means,
After the transfer of the order information, the order image corresponding to the order information is transferred to the photo processing laboratory by a second transfer means,
In the photo processing laboratory,
Preparing a photo print processing production plan based on the order information transferred by the first transfer means;
A digital photo order processing system for producing the photo print of the order image transferred by the second transfer means according to the prepared production plan. Before transferring the order information of the customer by the first transfer means, input the order information of the customer;
The digital photo order processing system according to claim 1, wherein the order image of the customer is input before the order image of the customer is transferred by the second transfer means.   Check whether the order image of the customer corresponding to the order information transferred preferentially has been transferred to the photo processing lab in order to create the photo print of the order image according to the production plan The digital image according to claim 1 or 2, wherein if the order image is not transferred, the order image transfer is waited for, the order image transfer is confirmed, and the photo print of the order image is created. Photo order processing system.   4. The photo processing laboratory, wherein after the photo print of the order image is created, the created photo print is delivered to the customer or a person designated by the customer. Digital photo order processing system.   The order information includes at least orderer information, order date / time or delivery date, print size, number of printed sheets, finishing type, photo merchandise type, and print receiving method, and further includes information on the order image as optional information. The digital photo order processing system according to any one of 1 to 4. When there are a plurality of customer orders and the order information of the subsequent order is input during the transfer by the second transfer means of the order image of the previous order,
The first transfer unit interrupts transfer of the order image of the previous order by the second transfer unit, and preferentially transfers the order information of the subsequent order to the photo processing laboratory. The digital photo order processing system according to any one of 1 to 5. During the interruption transfer of the order information of the subsequent order by the first transfer unit, the first transfer unit temporarily stops the transfer of the order image of the previous order by the second transfer unit, and After the transfer of the order information of the subsequent order, the second transfer means that has been suspended resumes the transfer of the order image of the previous order, or
7. The digital photo order according to claim 6, wherein the order image of the previous order is transferred in parallel by the second transfer means during the interruption transfer of the order information of the subsequent order by the first transfer means. Processing system. The said 1st transfer means and the said 2nd transfer means transmit the said customer's order information and the said order image to the said photo processing laboratory as digital data, respectively. Digital photo order processing system as described in. The first transfer means transmits the order information of the customer as digital data to the photo processing laboratory,
6. The digital photo order processing system according to claim 1, wherein the second transfer means delivers a digital image recording medium on which the order image of the customer is recorded to the photo processing laboratory.   The first transfer unit and the second transfer unit both deliver a digital image recording medium in which the order information and the order image of the customer are recorded together or respectively to the photo processing laboratory. Item 6. The digital photo order processing system according to any one of Items 1 to 5. Means for inputting an order image and order information of a customer who orders a photo print in association with each other;
First transfer means for transferring the inputted order information of the customer to a photo processing laboratory in preference to transfer of the corresponding order image;
A second transfer means for transferring the order image of the customer corresponding to the order information to the photo processing laboratory after the transfer of the order information of the customer;
Planning means provided in the photo processing lab for making an efficient photo print processing production plan according to the order information transferred by the first transfer means;
The order image corresponding to the order information of the customer transferred by the second transfer means according to the production plan is provided in the photo processing laboratory, and the photo print processing is performed on the order image of the customer. A digital photo order processing system comprising photo print processing means for creating a photo print. Further, the photo processing lab is provided to check whether the order image corresponding to the order information for which the production plan has been made has arrived and to wait for the order image. Having image detecting means for detecting an image;
12. The digital photo order processing system according to claim 11, wherein the photo print processing means performs photo print processing on the order image of the customer detected by the image detection means in accordance with the production plan.   13. The apparatus according to claim 11 or 12, further comprising: a delivery unit provided in the photo processing lab, which delivers the photo print of the order image of the customer created by the photo print processing unit to the customer or a person designated by the customer. The digital photo order processing system described.   The delivery means is a delivery means for delivering the photographic print to deliver to the customer, a person designated by the customer, or a destination designated by the customer, or delivered at a store of the photo processing laboratory, 14. The digital photo order processing system according to claim 13, wherein the photo print is delivered to the customer or a person designated by the customer.   The order information includes at least orderer information, order date / time or delivery date, print size, number of printed sheets, finishing type, photo merchandise type, and print receiving method, and further includes information on the order image as optional information. The digital photo order processing system according to any one of 11 to 14. When there are a plurality of customer orders and the order information of the subsequent order is input during the transfer by the second transfer means of the order image of the previous order,
The first transfer unit interrupts transfer of the order image of the previous order by the second transfer unit, and preferentially transfers the order information of the subsequent order to the photo processing laboratory. The digital photo order processing system according to any one of 11 to 15. During the interruption transfer of the order information of the subsequent order by the first transfer unit, the first transfer unit temporarily stops the transfer of the order image of the previous order by the second transfer unit, and After the transfer of the order information of the subsequent order, the second transfer means that has been suspended resumes the transfer of the order image of the previous order, or
17. The digital photo order according to claim 16, wherein the order image of the previous order is transferred in parallel by the second transfer means during the interruption transfer of the order information of the subsequent order by the first transfer means. Processing system.   The first transfer means and the second transfer means are communication means for transmitting the order information and the order image of the customer to the photo processing laboratory as digital data, respectively. The digital photo order processing system described in Crab. The first transfer means is communication means for transmitting the order information of the customer as digital data to the photo processing laboratory,
16. The digital photo order processing system according to claim 11, wherein the second transfer unit is a delivery unit that delivers a digital image recording medium on which the order image of the customer is recorded to the photo processing laboratory.   The first transfer means and the second transfer means are both delivery means for delivering a digital image recording medium on which the order information and the order image of the customer are recorded together or respectively to the photo processing laboratory. The digital photo order processing system according to any one of claims 11 to 15.

Images