JPH11215421A - Image-pickup system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To enable a system to photograph a photographer himself as an object by installing the system to a place suitable for photographing a sightseeing spot or a theme park. SOLUTION: This image-pickup system is constituted of an image-pickup terminal 10 provided with a camera section 11 and a monitor section 12, a portable remote controller 20, and a center device 30 which connects to the image-pickup terminal 10 via a LAN 40. The terminal 10 is installed at places where a large number of visitors desire to photograph, such as a theme park. A photographing available number is set in advance to the remote controller 20, which is rented out to the visitors. During photographing, when a visitor 1 operates the remote controller 20 in front of the terminal 10, a photographing instruction signal is sent, the camera section 11 of the terminal 10 is operated to photograph an object. Photographed data are sent to the center device 30 via the LAN 40. When a photographing available number is used up and an additional order is placed, an additional available number is provided. The center device 30 classifies photographed data based on each remote controller and prints out the data. A photographer receives print photographs exiting where the center device 30 is installed and returns the remote controller 20.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an imaging system suitable for installation in a tourist spot or a theme park. Further, the installation location is not limited to a tourist spot or a theme park.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art When taking a picture of a subject at a sightseeing spot, a theme park, or the like, photographing using a self-timer is often used.

[0003]

However, when taking a picture using a self-timer, a holding means such as a tripod is required, which is inconvenient to carry.
In addition, at scenic spots, temples, famous places, etc., danger prevention and environmental protection,
There are cases where tourists are prohibited from taking pictures from the viewpoint of protection of cultural properties, and cases where it is desired to prohibit except for specific places. Since such a place is generally suitable in many cases as an object to be photographed, simply prohibiting photographing may rather produce the opposite effect. Therefore, it is conceivable to achieve the prohibition purpose by providing a photographing means at an appropriate place to absorb a tourist's willingness to photograph.

[0004] It is an object of the present invention to provide a photographing system which can be installed at a place suitable for photographing a tourist spot or a theme park to photograph a photographer himself as a subject.

[0005]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an imaging system comprising:
Remote control means for transmitting a number and an imaging command; imaging means for disposing an image of a subject based on an imaging command transmitted from the remote control means to obtain image data; And control means for classifying and holding the image data transmitted from the imaging means based on the transmitted ID number.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the imaging system according to the first aspect, the remote control means has a receiving means for receiving a signal transmitted from the imaging means, and the imaging means transmits the imaging result to the remote control. It is characterized by giving to means.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the imaging system according to the second aspect, the remote control means further includes a display means for displaying a photographing result given from the image pickup means.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the imaging system according to the second aspect, the display remote control means further includes a display means for displaying the number of recordable images updated each time an imaging command is transmitted.

According to a fifth aspect, in the imaging system according to the first aspect, the imaging means includes a monitor for displaying a captured image.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the imaging system according to the first aspect, the control means stores the image data obtained by adding information relating to the imaging means.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the imaging system according to the first aspect, the control means further comprises an output means for printing and outputting each of the classified and held images.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in the imaging system according to the first aspect, the control means includes an output means for outputting to the storage medium each of the classified and held images.

[0013]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS <Configuration of Imaging System, etc.> FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of an imaging system of the present invention. Hereinafter, an example in which the imaging system of the present invention is installed in a theme park will be described.

As shown in FIG. 1A, an imaging system 100 includes an imaging terminal 10 including a camera unit 11, a television-like monitor unit 13, and supporting legs (or supporting bases) 16 for supporting them, and an imaging person (entrance). 1) has a remote controller (hereinafter, referred to as a remote controller) 20 and a center device 30 connected to the imaging terminal 10 via a LAN (Local Area Network) 40.

The terminal device 10 is a place where many visitors want to take a picture, such as a place where the view of the theme park is good or a square,
It is installed in places where personal photography is difficult, such as at the front of a vehicle seat or at various points of attraction. The imaging terminal 10 includes an infrared input / output unit 15.

The remote controller 20 has a thin shape similar to that of a small calculator, and has an imaging button 21 ', a number-of-photographs setting button 21 ", a display section 24 and an infrared input / output section 23 (FIG. 4).
Is provided. The remote control device 20 is lent to visitors when entering the theme park. The lent remote controller 20 is preset with a predetermined possible number of times of imaging (for example, the number of imaging rights of 20). At the time of imaging, when the visitor 1 presses the imaging button 21 ′ of the remote control device 20 while checking the monitor 13 in front of the imaging terminal 10, the remote control device 2
From 0, an imaging instruction signal and the like are transmitted. When the imaging terminal 10 receives an imaging instruction signal or the like, the camera unit 11 operates to perform imaging. The number of images and the number of images that can be captured are displayed on the display unit 24 of the remote control device 20 (in the example of FIG. 1B, the number of images that can be captured is “2” and the number of images that can be captured is “18”). In addition, when an additional order is issued when the number of imaging rights has been consumed, the information is sent to the center 30 and, for example, ten imaging rights are given. In FIG. 1, reference numeral 2 denotes a character doll (bear).

The image capturing terminal 10 receives an image capturing instruction signal from the remote control device 20 to perform image capturing, and transfers the image capturing data to the center device 30 provided at a predetermined location in the theme park via the LAN 40 together with the ID number of the remote control device. Send. At this time, data of one captured image may be transmitted to the remote control device 20, and the remote control device 20 may receive the data and display the data on the display unit 24 so that the photographer can confirm the shooting state.

The center device 30 fetches the image data, classifies each of the remote control devices based on the ID number, and prints out a photograph. At the time of exit, the photographer receives a print (photograph) corresponding to the ID number of the remote control device 20 at the exit where the center device 30 is installed, adjusts the fee, and returns the remote control device 20. The number of prints may be set collectively in advance, or the number of prints may be designated for each photographing. Further, instead of printout, image data may be stored in a storage medium (for example, FD) and provided. When there are a plurality of outlets, a printing device and an infrared input / output device are installed at each outlet and connected to the center device 30 via a LAN. At the outlet, delivery of prints, charge settlement, and collection of the monitor device are performed. It may be.

<Example of Circuit Configuration and Operation Example of Imaging Terminal> FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a circuit configuration of the imaging terminal. The imaging terminal 10 includes a camera unit 11, a control unit 12, and a monitor unit 1.
3, an image memory 14, an infrared input / output unit 15, and a data transmission / reception unit 16. Further, as an additional configuration, an audio output device for notifying the imaging guide and the waiting time may be provided.

The camera unit 11 is an electronic camera device, such as a digital camera, which can convert an optical image of a subject into an electric signal and digitize it to obtain image data. And captures an image in accordance with an image capturing instruction signal from the remote control device 20, and records captured image data (still image data) in the image memory 14.

The control unit 12 includes a CPU, a RAM, and an RO
An MPU having an M (not shown) is connected to each of the above-described circuits via a bus line. The CPU controls the entire imaging terminal by a program stored in a ROM, and receives from the remote control device 20. In response to the signal, execution of each function of the camera unit 11 is controlled, and communication control for data transmission / reception with the center device 30 is performed.
The RAM corresponds to the internal memory, and the center device 30
Is used for temporary storage of the ID number of the remote control device 20 sent from the server, temporary storage of programs, data and processing results, and an intermediate work area. The ROM is a recording medium for recording the above-mentioned programs and the like.
A ROM (flash ROM) or the like is used. Control unit 1
2 is a remote control device 20 from the infrared input / output unit 15.
Receiving the camera ID number and the imaging instruction signal
Is given an imaging instruction signal. When receiving the ID number of the remote controller 20 and the request signal for adding the number of prints or the number of rights from the infrared input / output unit 15, the data transmission / reception unit 1 receives the request.
Give to 6. Further, after the image is captured, a print number instruction request signal is sent to the infrared input / output unit 15. When receiving the ID number of the remote control device 20 and the out-of-rights signal or the additional number of rights from the data transmitting / receiving unit 16, the remote controller 20 transmits the signal to the infrared input / output unit 1.
Give 5

The monitor unit 13 is, for example, a video monitor device such as a commercially available television receiver, and the camera unit 1
1 is converted into a video signal and displayed on a screen.

The image memory 14 stores the camera unit 1 every time an image is taken.
1 stores the image data of one image sent from.

The infrared input / output unit 15 receives and demodulates an ID number, an imaging instruction signal, and a print number or right number addition request signal, which are modulated into an infrared signal transmitted from the remote control device 20, and sends the demodulated signal to the control unit 12. Also, the control unit 12 sends the ID number of the imaging device 10, the ID number of the remote control device,
When receiving the print number instruction request signal, the right number out notification signal, and the additional number of right number, they are modulated into an infrared signal and ID
Send a number to the outside.

The data transmission / reception unit 16 transmits the ID number stored in the RAM and the data stored in the image memory to the center device 30 via the LAN 40 under the control of the control unit 12. The transmission / reception unit 16 includes the control unit 12
Also, when receiving the request signal for requesting the number of prints or the number of rights to be issued, the control unit 30 transmits the signal to the center device 30 via the LAN 40. The transmitting / receiving unit 16 also transmits the LA
When receiving the ID number, the right number out notification signal and the additional right number via N40, it sends them to the control unit 12.
Further, a code or the like indicating display data indicating the ID number or the installation location of the imaging terminal and information related to the imaging terminal 10, such as temperature, are transmitted from the imaging terminal 10 to the center device 30 via the LAN 40. You may.

<Example of Circuit Configuration and Operation of Remote Controller> FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the circuit configuration of the remote controller. The remote controller 20 includes an operation unit 21, a control unit 22,
An infrared input / output unit 23 and a display unit 24 are provided.

The operation unit 21 has an imaging instruction button 21 ′ and a print number setting button 22 ″.
When 1 'or the number-of-prints setting button 22 "is pressed, a signal is sent to the CPU of the control unit 22.
U, which has a RAM as an internal memory and a ROM for storing a program, determines that a signal from the operation unit 21 is received, and determines an ID when the signal is from the imaging instruction button 21 ′.
The number and the imaging instruction number are sent to the infrared input / output unit, and 1 is added to the imaging counter provided in the RAM. Similarly, 1 is subtracted from the imageable number counter provided in the RAM and sent to the display unit 24. . The control unit 22 also analyzes the digital signal from the infrared transmitting / receiving unit 23 and
If there is no ID number, the message is invalid. If the signal following the ID number is a request signal for requesting the number of prints when the own ID number is present, a message prompting "input of the number of prints" is displayed on the display unit 24, In the case of an out-of-number notification signal, a display prompting the user to input "whether or not to request an additional number of right" is displayed on the display unit 24, for example, zero display of the number of shootable images and blinking display of the print number setting button 21 ". To prompt the user to input, and if the number of additional rights is required, the value of the number of additional rights is added to the number-of-capable-images counter.

When a signal is received from the operation unit 21 (print number setting button 21 ") after a message prompting" input of number of prints ", the number of signals is counted, and the ID number and the number of prints are input to the infrared input / output unit. In addition, when the number-of-prints setting button 21 ″ is pressed after the display prompting “input whether or not to request the number of additional rights”, an additional number of rights request signal is given to the infrared input / output unit 23. And
When the number of additional rights is detected from the infrared input / output unit 23, the value of the additional rights is added to the number-of-photographs counter.

The infrared input / output unit 23 modulates an ID number and an imaging instruction number, or an ID number and a print number or right number addition request signal into an infrared signal and sends it out. The infrared input / output unit 23 also demodulates the received infrared signal to obtain a digital signal and sends it to the control unit 22.

The display unit 24 has a screen made up of a liquid crystal display element, and can display various operation instruction messages, the number of images that can be taken, the number of images that can be taken, and the like.

<Circuit Configuration Example and Operation Example of Center Device> [Circuit Configuration] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the center device. The center device 30 includes an operation unit 31 having a lend button and a return button, an infrared ray. An input / output device 32, a control unit 33, a memory 34, a data transmission / reception unit 35, and an image printing device 36 are provided. Further, a large-capacity recording device 39 such as a checkout printer 37, an FD (floppy disk) device 38, and a magnetic disk (HD) device (or an optical disk device) may be provided as additional devices.

The operation unit 31 is operated when lending and returning the remote control device. The infrared input / output device 32 exchanges signals with the remote control device when the remote control device is lent or returned.

The control unit 33 includes a CPU, a RAM, and an RO
M (not shown), the CPU is connected to each of the above-described circuits via a bus line, controls the entire imaging terminal by a program stored in a ROM, and rents / remotes a remote control device. Return (setting release) processing, color printing bitmap data conversion processing of image data using a print data conversion module (which can be configured by a program or a hardware circuit in the embodiment), or via a LAN 40 Communication control for data transmission / reception with all the imaging devices is performed. When there are many imaging terminals, it is desirable to provide a communication control unit separately.

The memory 34 stores image buffers 51-1, 42-2,..., 42-n for each imaging terminal as shown in FIG.
Is provided, and images taken for each imaging terminal are temporarily stored in a buffer sequentially. In the memory 34, an area 52 for the counter table 60 as shown in FIG.

The data transmission / reception unit 35 transmits / receives data to / from a plurality of imaging terminals via the LAN 40, takes in the received image data into the input buffer, and controls the control unit 33 to control the vacant image at a predetermined timing. Buffer 5
DMA transfer to 1-i. In addition, the received I
The D number and the ID number of the remote controller are sent to the control unit 33. The data transmitting / receiving unit 35 transmits the ID number of the remote control device and the number of additional rights transmitted from the control unit 33 to the imaging terminal specified by the ID number via the LAN 40.

The image printing device 36 includes a printing controller (program), takes in a color printing bitmap image sent from the main body into a print buffer, prints and prints the color image, and reproduces the color image. In this case, a print completion notification signal is transmitted to the control unit 33 of the main body every time one image is printed.

The balance printer 37, which is an additional device, is a print printer dedicated to a bill and a bill, and is connected to the center device 30 in-line when there are many exits.
Connect via AN40. Also, an additional device F
The D device 38 and the HD device 39 are provided when an FD image input service is provided to a visitor who wishes to take home the FD in place of FD photo (image) printing when entering. When the imaging terminal 10 is configured to transmit a code or the like indicating display data indicating the ID number or the installation location of the imaging terminal, the counter table 60 is associated with the transmitted image data. At the time of output, a message table (not shown) registered separately at the time of output may be searched to extract and print the message code, or output to the FD.

[Main operation of center device and remote control device at lending / returning] At the time of lending, the person in charge of remote control device 2
With the infrared input / output unit 23 of the center device 30 facing the infrared input device 32 of the center device 30 and pressing the lend button, the number of rights modulated via the infrared input / output unit 32 (in the embodiment, “2”)
0 ′) is transmitted, received by the infrared input / output unit 23 of the remote control device 20, demodulated, and the number of right is set in the imaging counter. The modulated ID number is transmitted via the infrared input / output unit 23 of the remote control device 20, received / demodulated by the infrared input device 32 of the center device 30, and sent to the control unit 33 together with the rental signal.

Upon receiving the rental signal and the ID number, the control unit 33 searches the count table 60 of the memory 34 using the received signal and the ID number as a key, and sets a numerical value “20” in the imaging right number field 62 of the matched table record. Control unit 33
At the time of return, when the remote control device is inserted and the return button is pressed, an ID number inquiry signal is transmitted to the remote control device side via the infrared input / output device 32. Upon receiving the ID number inquiry signal via the infrared input / output unit, the remote control device transmits its own ID number to the center device 30 via the infrared input / output unit. When the center device 30 receives the ID number of the remote control device returned via the infrared input / output device 32, it sends it to the control unit 33 together with a return signal. When receiving the return signal and the ID number, the control unit 33 searches the count table 60 of the memory 34 using the key as a key, and clears the imaging right number field 62 and the print number field 64 of the table record 60 having the matching ID number to zero. The maximum value is set in the image recording address column 63.

[Main operation of control unit at the time of data transmission / reception] The control unit 33 controls the storage order of the image data received from the data transmission / reception unit 35 in the image buffer and the output order to the image printing device 36. The control unit 33 also temporarily stores in the RAM the ID number of the imaging terminal that has transmitted the image data and the ID number of the remote control device that has issued the imaging instruction. Then, the count table 60 is searched using the ID number of the remote control device as a key, and the recording address (head address) of the image data stored in the image recording address column 63 of the matched count data is stored (FIG. 6).

When the number of prints is designated, the ID number of the remote controller and the designated number of prints are temporarily stored in the RAM. Number of images printed and RAM
Is compared with the total number of prints stored in
> Stores .SIGMA.p _i if the specified number of print sheets in the corresponding storage location to the image of the print number column 64 column. Also, P ≦ Σ
If p _i , the character code of the message meaning “excess number of rights” and “specifiable number” (= P−ΣP _i−1 )
Then, the character code of the message asking whether or not the “additional right number request” is made is sent to the data transmitting / receiving unit 34.

When the ID number of the imaging terminal, the ID number of the remote controller, and the request signal for adding the number of rights are received from the data transmitter / receiver 34, the count table 60 is searched using the ID number of the remote controller as a key. The number of additional rights (“10” in the embodiment) is added to the number of photographing rights column 62 of the count record, and the data transmission / reception unit 35 is added.
, The ID number of the imaging terminal, the ID number, and the number of additional rights.

The control unit 32 also controls the counter table 6
0, sequentially searches each storage area of the image storage address column 63, takes out image data from any of the image buffers 51-1 to 51-n of the memory 50 based on the stored contents, and converts the image data into a print data conversion module. Is converted into bitmap data for color printing using, and is transmitted to the image printing device 36 together with the number of prints of the image recorded in the print number column 64. In addition, the image printing device 35-1
The print completion notification signal sent each time a sheet image is printed is obtained, and 1 is subtracted from the number of prints of the image recorded in the print number column 64. When the value of the storage area is the maximum value [FF ··· FF] when searching the image storage address column 63 of the counter table 60, the storage area is skipped.

<Example of Memory Configuration of Center Device> FIG.
FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a configuration example of a memory 34 of the center device. The memory 34 is provided with image buffers 51-1, 42-2,..., 42-n for each imaging terminal as shown in FIG. Image buffers 51-1, 42-2,...
42-n temporarily stores an image captured for each imaging terminal. The storage order of the image data is determined by the image buffer 51-1.
42-2,..., 42-n, 51-1 and the like.

That is, the image data from each of the imaging terminals (k) is stored in the image buffer on a first-come, first-served basis, and when the image buffer is full, it enters a queue state. When the waiting state occurs, even if the image capturing terminal attempts to perform image capturing, image capturing becomes impossible until the image memory of the image capturing terminal becomes empty. To avoid the occurrence of the waiting state, the number of image buffers may be increased, but the capacity of the memory 34 is physically and costly limited. Here, assuming that the image output time is T, the maximum value MAXS of the total number of times of image capturing of all the image capturing terminals during the time T and the cumulative number of stored images up to immediately before that are statistically estimated. From the maximum number of buffers n that can be secured from
The waiting time t is calculated so as to be MAXS / n,
At the time of occurrence of the waiting state, a message indicating that "it takes about t seconds before the next image capturing" or "image can be captured" or an audio notification is displayed on the monitor screen of the image capturing terminal.
The maximum value MAXS can be estimated from the number of rented remote control devices, the weather, the time zone, and the like, and the average residence time of the remote control lender. In the example, n = 300. Further, by connecting a plurality of image printing apparatuses 37 (for example, corresponding to each imaging terminal), it is possible to prevent occurrence of a waiting state.

Further, since one image buffer is opened each time an image is printed, the image data of any one of the imaging terminals can be stored in the empty image buffer. , 42-2,..., 42-
It does not circulate in the order of n, 51-1. That is, the contents of the storage area stored in the image storage address column 63 for each remote control ID number column 61 of the count table 60 are read out according to the print schedule managed by the control unit 33, and the image storage address specified thereby is read. (= The start address of the image buffer) is specified, and the image data stored in the image buffer is read.

<Example of Structure of Counter Table> FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an embodiment of the structure of the counter table provided in the memory 34 of the center device.
Has an ID number column 61, an imaging right number column 62, an image storage address column 63, and a print number column 64. Further, a terminal information column 65 may be provided as an additional configuration.

The remote control ID number column 61 contains remote control IDs of all the remote control devices (k) managed by the center device 30.
Are registered in advance. “20” is set as the “number of rights” in the number of times of imaging right column 62 when each remote control device is lent. When the additional right number is requested, the number is added. Also, the imaging right count column 62 is cleared to zero when each remote control device is lent.

The image storage address column 63 is a storage area for storing each storage address of an image photographed by the remote control device (“image storage address” in FIG. 6).
.., “Image m” below are provided, and “Image 1”, “Image 1”,
(In FIG. 6, the image buffer numbers “51-1” and “51-5” are described for the sake of explanation, but in the embodiment, the image data is stored in the memory 34. The storage address (start address) is stored). The terminal information column 65
A storage area for recording an ID number of an imaging terminal that has captured an image, a code indicating installation information of the imaging terminal, environmental information such as temperature, and the like (in FIG. 6, “image 1”, “terminal information”,
"Image 2",..., "Image m"). When the column 65 is provided, a message table (not shown) that can be searched by the ID number or the code stored in the column 65 in advance is provided in the memory 34, and the message is added when the image is output. Can be output.

According to the configuration of the counter table 70,
Images captured by each remote control device can be classified and stored. In this embodiment, the maximum storage number m is set to 50, but it may be appropriately determined in consideration of the capacity of the memory 34 and the number of remote control devices managed by the center device 30 in the configuration of the imaging system 100.

The number-of-prints field 64 is the same as the number of storage areas for storing the storage addresses of the images (in FIG. 6, "Image 1", "Image 2", and "Image 2" under "Number of prints"). .., A portion represented by “image m”), and the number of prints is “image 1”, “image 1” corresponding to the image whose storage address is stored in each storage area of the image storage address 63 column. 2 ",... When the number of prints of each image is designated by the user of the remote control device, the designated number is set individually, and is subtracted by '1' each time printing is performed. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the operations of the imaging terminal 10, the remote control device 20, and the center device 30 in the imaging system 100.
A series of cycles leading to the return of 0 will be described as an example.

[Lending Process] When a staff member presses a lending button on the operation unit 31 of the center device 30 to perform a lending operation and hands it to a visitor (hereinafter referred to as a user) who has applied (S).
1), the number of right to image (20) is given to the remote control device 20, and the number is set in the number-of-images-capable counter. The center device 30 has the ID of the remote control device i.
The number is passed (S2). The center device 30 searches the counter table 60 based on the read ID number of the remote control device i, and sets an initial value (the number of right to image (= 20) and the number of prints (= 1) in the matched counter record, Transition to S10 (S3).

[Imaging] When the user of the remote control device 20 directs the tip of the remote control device 20 toward the imaging device 10 and presses the imaging instruction button 21 ′, the ID number of the remote control device 20 and the imaging instruction signal are modulated into infrared rays, and Sent in the direction of The number of images and the number of images that can be captured are displayed on the remote control device 20 (S4). The imaging terminal 10 that has received the ID number of the remote control device 20 and the imaging instruction signal operates the camera unit 11 to operate the subject (usually, the user (photographer) of the remote control device 20).
), The captured image is temporarily stored in the image memory 14, and the remote control device 20 is stored in the RAM of the control unit 11.
Is temporarily stored (S5). Next, an ID number of the remote control device 20 is attached, a print number instruction request signal is transmitted to the remote control device 20, and the process proceeds to S9.

[Transmission of Image Data and Number of Printed Data] The remote controller 20 displays a print number instruction message to prompt the user to input the number of prints. If the user does not press the number setting button for one minute, the process proceeds to S9 (S9).
7). When the user presses the number-of-prints setting button 21 ″ for the number of copies and lasts for about 5 seconds, the ID of the remote control device 20 is displayed.
The number and the number of printed sheets are modulated into infrared rays and transmitted to the imaging device 10 (S8). On the imaging terminal 10 side, the remote control device 2
The infrared number from 0 is demodulated to extract the ID number and the number of prints, and transmit the image data together with the image data to the center device 30 via the LAN 40. If the ID number and the number of prints are not transmitted from the remote control device 20 even after 2 minutes or more, the ID number stored in the RAM is taken out, the number of prints is set to "1", and the image data and the image data are transmitted to the LAN4.
0 to the center device 30 (S9).

[Data Reception Processing, etc.] Center Device 30
The side waits for transmission data from each of the installed imaging terminal data. If data is received, the process proceeds to S11, and if no data is received, the reception wait is continued (S10). When data is received from the imaging terminal 10 in S10, data reception processing is performed, image data is stored in the empty image buffer 51-i of the memory 34, and the count table 60 is stored in the remote controller 20 using the ID number. Image search address column 63 of the count record of the matched ID number by searching remote control ID column 61
Then, the address of the image buffer is stored in the address storage area, and the number of prints is stored in the number storage area of the print number column 64 (S11). Next, the total number of prints stored in the number storage area of the number-of-prints field 64 is calculated and compared with the number of right of imaging. When the number of right of imaging <the total number, the process proceeds to S13. It transits to S19 (S12).

[Addition of Number of Rights to Image] Center device 30
When the number of imaging rights is smaller than the total number in S12, the imaging terminal 1 sends a notice signal indicating that the number of imaging rights has run out via the LAN 40.
0 (S13), the imaging terminal 10 receives the signal from the center device 30, and when the signal is the notification signal of the out-of-image-right-number-of-rights signal, modulates the signal with the ID number of the remote control device 20 to infrared light and sends it (S14). .

The remote control device 20 receives the infrared signal from the imaging terminal 10 and demodulates the digital data. If the digital data is a notification signal indicating that the number of imaging rights has expired, a message is displayed on the display unit 24 asking whether or not an additional right request can be made. The user is prompted for an instruction (S15), and when an additional request is made, the user presses the print number instruction button, and an additional right number request signal is modulated into infrared rays together with the ID number of the remote control device 20 and transmitted (S16). If no additional request is made, no further imaging can be performed, so the user holds the remote control device as it is and returns it when leaving. Note that the message asking whether or not the additional right request is displayed on the display unit 24 is not erased until there is a return operation, and the user presses the print number instruction button at an arbitrary timing before returning the message to request the additional right number request signal. Can be obtained, and the number of additional rights can be obtained in accordance with the steps from S17 on, and the imaging can be restarted.

When the remote control device 20 sends the additional right number request signal at S16, the imaging terminal 10 receives and demodulates the infrared signal from the remote control device 20. When the infrared signal is the additional image right request signal, the remote control device 20 outputs the infrared signal.
Center device 30 via LAN 40 together with the ID number of
(S17). The center device 30 receives the ID number and the additional right number request signal from the imaging terminal 10 and uses the ID number to control the remote controller I of the count table 60.
By searching the D number column 61 and adding the additional right number to the imaging right number column 63 of the count record of the matching ID number, the imaging right number column 62 is updated (S18), and the additional right is added together with the ID number of the remote control device 20. The number is transmitted to the imaging terminal 10, and the process proceeds to S23 (S19). The imaging terminal 10 modulates the received ID number of the remote control device 20 and the number of additional rights received into infrared rays and sends them out (S20). The remote control device 20 receives and modulates the infrared signals and extracts digital signals. If the number of additional rights is included, the number of additional rights is added to the number-of-images-capable-number counter of the RAM, and the process returns to S4 to wait for the timing of imaging (S2).
1).

[Image Print Process] If the number of right to be shot is not exhausted in S12 or if the number of additional right is transmitted in S19, an image (photograph) by the image printing device 36 is obtained.
Perform printing. In this case, the ID number of the remote control device, the ID number of the imaging terminal, and the shooting date and time are printed together with the image (S22). After the image is printed, 1 is subtracted from the content (= number of prints) of the print number storage area corresponding to the printed image in the print number column 64 of the count table 60 (S23). Note that the terminal information column 6 is included in the count table.
5 is provided to record information from the imaging terminal, information such as a photographing location and temperature can be printed together.

Next, it is determined whether there has been a data reception interrupt from the imaging terminal 10 by checking the interrupt status signal. If there is a reception interrupt, the process proceeds to S10. In this case, the image printing process being executed is continuously executed without interruption (S24). Remote control device 2 if there is no reception interrupt
In step S22, it is checked whether or not there is an image captured, and if so, the flow returns to step S22 to perform the print processing of the next image (step S22).
25). If there is no image captured by remote control device 20, it is checked whether there is still an image captured by another remote control device, and if so, the process returns to S22 to print the image of the next remote control device. In this case, the process returns to S10 and waits for data reception (S26).

[Return Processing] If there is no addition request operation in S15 and the user returns the remote control device 20,
When the operator presses the return button of the center device 30 to perform a return operation (S27), the number-of-images counter and the number-of-images-capable counter of the remote controller 20 are cleared to zero, and the ID number of the remote controller 20 is transmitted after being modulated to infrared rays. (S28), the center device 30 receives and demodulates the infrared signal, extracts the ID number, searches the remote control ID number column 61 of the count table 60, checks the print column of the matched ID number, and finds out that it is not printed. If there is an image, the print processing is preferentially performed and the remaining image is printed. If there is no image that has not been printed (there is no more), the right-of-imaging field 62 and the number-of-prints field of the count record of the ID number are cleared to zero.
The maximum value is stored in the image storage address column 63, and the return processing of the remote control device 20 is completed (S29).

In the above description, a case has been described in which a photograph is printed by an image printing device and handed over when the remote control device is returned. May be configured so that the image data is stored in the FD and provided when the remote control device is returned. In this case, the memory 34
A large-capacity storage device such as an HD device 39 or an optical disk may be provided as an auxiliary memory (FIG. 4). Although one embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and it goes without saying that various modifications can be made.

[0063]

As described above, according to the imaging system of the first invention, the imaging means is disposed in advance at a predetermined position, for example, a scenic spot or a place suitable for shooting a theme park. Therefore, the photographer does not need to carry the imaging means by himself, and also does not need to carry the instruction means such as a tripod. In addition, it is possible to perform imaging at a preset suitable angle or at an angle that cannot be normally photographed by an individual.

Further, according to the imaging system of the second invention, since the imaging means gives the imaging result to the remote control means,
By providing an output unit on the remote control unit side, it is possible to confirm a photographing result or obtain an image or image data.

Further, according to the imaging system of the third invention, the imaging means gives the photographing result to the remote control means, and the remote control means can display the photographing result on the display means to confirm the degree of the photographing. You can take a picture immediately in such cases.

According to the imaging system of the fourth aspect of the present invention, the remote controller can display the number of images that can be taken, so that the photographer can quickly cope with a shortage of the number of images.

According to the imaging system of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the monitoring means is provided in the imaging means provided at a predetermined location, so that the photographer can take a picture at a desired angle while watching the monitor.

According to the imaging system of the sixth aspect, the control means classifies / records the information relating to the imaging means together with the image data. It can be output with additional shooting conditions.

According to the imaging system of the seventh aspect of the present invention, since the printing means is provided in the control means, after the imaging,
Images and the like classified / recorded at a predetermined timing can be printed out.

Further, according to the imaging system of the eighth aspect, after the image is captured, images classified / recorded at a predetermined timing can be output to a storage medium, for example, an FD, so that the output time can be shortened. The use of image data can be expected.

In the present invention, a program AE can be set for each terminal in advance based on the arrangement of the terminal, taking into account changes in date and time, weather, and the like. This makes it possible to shoot under optimal conditions, such as those described in pamphlets for theme parks, and to provide good shooting data that can be used to differentiate the shooting results taken by individuals. Becomes

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of an imaging system of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of an imaging terminal.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of a remote control device.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a center device.

FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of a memory configuration of a center device.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing one embodiment of a structure of a counter table provided in a memory of the center device.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating operations of an imaging terminal, a remote control device, and a center device in the imaging system.

[Explanation of symbols]

 REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 photographer (subject) 2 character doll (subject) 10 imaging terminal (imaging means) 13 monitor unit (monitor means) 20 remote control device (remote control means) 23 infrared input / output unit (receiving means) 24 display unit (display means) 30 Center device (control means) 36 Image printing device (output means) 38 FD device (output means)

Claims (8)

[Claims] A remote controller for transmitting an ID number and an image capturing command to the image capturing device; a remote controller provided at a predetermined position in advance for capturing an image of a subject based on the image capturing command transmitted from the remote controller; And control means for classifying and holding the image data transmitted from the imaging means based on an ID number transmitted together with the imaging command from the remote control means. Imaging system. 2. The remote control unit according to claim 2, wherein the remote control unit includes a receiving unit that receives a signal transmitted from the imaging unit, and the imaging unit supplies an imaging result to the remote control unit. Imaging system. 3. The imaging system according to claim 3, wherein said remote controller has display means for displaying a photographing result given from said imaging means. 4. The imaging system according to claim 3, wherein said display remote control means further comprises display means for displaying the number of recordable images updated each time said imaging command is transmitted. 5. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein said image pickup means further comprises monitor means for displaying a picked-up image.
An imaging system according to any of the preceding claims. 6. The imaging system according to claim 2, wherein the control unit adds information relating to the imaging unit to the captured image data and stores the image data. 7. The imaging system according to claim 2, wherein said control means further comprises an output means for printing out each of the classified and held images. 8. The imaging system according to claim 2, wherein said control means further comprises an output means for outputting to the storage medium for each of the classified and held images.