JP2000221618A - Image reproducing device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To easily judge whether or not automatic image correction is performed for user by displaying plural images performed with the automatic image correction for the image of a digital still camera performing peculiar picture forming for a camera. SOLUTION: Plural images performed with the automatic image correction are displayed for the image of the digital still camera performing the peculiar picture forming for the camera. An image reproducing device 1 is a device of a coin-vendor system that a user throws in a charge, and confirms the image by oneself to obtain a print, and the charge is thrown into a throw-in hole 8. A media loading part 2 is provided on the device upper part, and the user can load any one of four kinds of image recording media (smart media, compact frash, optical disk, floppy disk). A panel 7 for displaying the kinds of loading media is arranged on the side of the media loading part 2, and a monitor 4 is provided for displaying the image, etc.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

[0001] The present invention relates to an image reproducing apparatus for reproducing an image from digital image data.

[0002]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to the printing of digital image data, and an image is recorded as digital image data on a recording medium by, for example, a digital camera. Digital image data can be displayed on a monitor. When printing on photographic paper in an image reproducing apparatus, digital image data is read from a recording medium, converted into light, and the photographic paper is exposed to print.
Currently, there are many types of digital cameras on sale, and at present, image quality varies greatly depending on each camera. For this reason, there are many images having image qualities that cannot withstand printing without image correction. When printing a plurality of images at the same time, the digital image data can be automatically corrected, and the print images can be corrected collectively.

[0003]

By the way, in digital cameras, each camera performs its own painting.
There are many users who like the painting. On the other hand, some low-cost digital cameras end up with poor resolution and color. Under the current situation of such digital cameras, it is almost impossible to give 100% satisfaction to the user in terms of the preference of the user and the difference in the shooting scene, even if the automatic image correction is performed with the highest possible accuracy. In the case of digital images, it ’s also possible to create a unique photo on purpose,
In such a case, the user does not want automatic correction.

Although the present invention relates to correction when printing digital image data on photographic paper, the correction is also performed when printing image information recorded on a conventional silver halide film on photographic paper. Have been done. For example, a photographic printer that prints image information recorded on a silver halide film on photographic paper can optically read the image information on the silver halide film to correct the print finish. Some photo printers include a simulator that simulates a finished print photo and displays it on a color monitor. The photographic printer described in JP-A-2-110532 captures a negative image set at a print position when printing a print from a negative color film, simulates the finished state of the print, and corrects the image before and after correction. Is displayed on one screen, and the print finish is corrected by changing the exposure amount. Thus, image correction is appropriately performed on one film image. When a plurality of images are printed at the same time, whether or not to perform image correction is selected for each image, so that it takes a lot of time and is very troublesome for the user. Further, it is difficult to grasp the overall tendency of the automatic image correction. In addition, the index printer optically reads the image information of each frame and arranges it in a matrix to reduce the index in order to make it easy to find out what kind of picture is taken on one developed film. Print. In order to correct this print, the correction amount at the time of exposure of each frame is determined from the read image information. Here, if the correction tendency of the index print is different from the correction tendency of the main print, it becomes difficult to match the image number of the index print with the main print. The index print creating apparatus described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 8-248535 is suitable for printing image information recorded on a silver halide film. In this apparatus, an index is created by performing exposure processing based on the same exposure information as that of the main print, and the correction tendency of the index print and the main print are matched. This technique is based on the premise that image correction is performed automatically.

An object of the present invention is to provide an image reproducing apparatus which allows a user to easily determine whether or not to perform automatic image correction.

[0006]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a first image reproducing apparatus, comprising: an automatic image correcting means for automatically performing image correction on two or more digital image data simultaneously; Image data display means for displaying the image data corrected by the correction means, and selection means for allowing the user to select whether or not to operate the automatic image correction means. The user views the image data displayed by the image data display means to determine the effect of the entire automatic image correction, and selects whether or not to apply the automatic image correction collectively. In the current state of digital cameras, if it is determined whether correction is performed on the entire image only by looking at a single image, depending on the representative image, an unexpected gap may be given when all the completed photos are viewed. Therefore, it is most useful to show the correction tendency of this apparatus for a plurality of images such as an index display screen and to confirm whether the correction tendency of such an apparatus matches the preference of the user. The user's favorite image. Preferably, in the above image reproducing apparatus, the image data display means displays an index of an image corrected by the automatic image correction means. The user judges the effect of the entire automatic image correction by looking at the index image and selects whether or not to apply the automatic image correction collectively.

A second image reproducing apparatus according to the present invention automatically and collectively inputs image data input means for inputting digital image data from an image recording medium and image data input by the image data input means. Automatic image correction means for performing image correction, image data display means for displaying image data corrected by the automatic image correction means, and selection means for allowing the user to select whether or not to operate the automatic image correction means And The user judges the overall effect of the automatic image correction on the image data from the image recording medium by looking at the image data displayed by the image data display means, and determines whether or not to perform the automatic image correction collectively. select. Further, the above-mentioned image reproducing apparatus further comprises a correction control means for enabling the selection means to select whether or not to perform automatic image correction after displaying an image without image correction on the image data display means. The user can more easily determine the overall effect of the automatic image correction. Further, the above-mentioned image reproducing apparatus further comprises a correction control means for enabling the selection means to select whether or not to perform automatic image correction after displaying the index image on the image data display means before the image correction. The user judges the effect of the entire automatic image correction by looking at the index image and selects whether or not to apply the automatic image correction collectively.

[0008]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same reference symbols indicate the same or equivalent ones. FIG. 1 shows an appearance of an image reproducing apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The image reproducing apparatus 1 is a coin vender type apparatus in which a user inputs a fee, checks an image by himself, and obtains a print.
The fee is input to the input port 8. A media loading section 2 is provided at the top of the apparatus, and a user can load any of four types of image recording media (smart media, compact flash, optical disk, and floppy disk). The media loading section 2 is provided with a dustproof cover 3. Note that a dustproof shutter may be provided at each loading port instead of the cover. A panel 7 is arranged beside the media loading section 2 to display the types of media that can be loaded. The monitor 4 is provided to display images and operation instructions, and has a touch panel formed on the surface. The keyboard 5 is used for giving various instructions. A silver halide printer 16 for printing ordinary photographs and a sublimation printer 18 for printing sticker prints are mounted inside the apparatus (see FIG. 3). The print is discharged from the discharge port 6. The user enters a fee into the slot 8 and operates the apparatus with the monitor 4 and the keyboard 5.

FIG. 2 shows the recording medium loading section 2 and the display panel 7 in more detail. First, the display panel 7 displays the shapes of four types of image recording media that can be loaded in the apparatus. Loadable media are smart media (SM), compact flash (CF), optical disc (C
D) and a floppy disk (FD). The number to the left of each symbol corresponds to the number of the loading port. The user compares the type of the recording medium with the display on the panel 7 and selects the corresponding medium. As a means for selection, a touch switch may be provided on the panel 7 or a number may be input on the keyboard 5. Further, the touch panel on the monitor 4 may be selectable. When the user selects a medium, a display 21 provided beside the loading port corresponding to the selected medium is turned on. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the display 21 corresponding to the smart media is turned on. The user loads the recording medium into the loading port where the display 21 is lit. By doing so, the user can identify his or her own media, and it is not necessary to load the media into the wrong loading slot.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the inside of the image reproducing apparatus. The entire apparatus is controlled by the overall control unit 20. The drive 10 reads an image recorded on the smart media. The drive 11 reads an image recorded on the compact flash. The drive 12 reads an image recorded on an optical disk. Drive 13
Reads the image recorded on the floppy disk.
The image signal processing unit 14 processes digital image signals from each medium received from each of the drives 10 to 13 for monitoring and printing, and the memory unit 15 records the signal-processed image. The contents recorded in the memory 15 are reproduced by the monitor 4 and the printers 16 and 18.

The silver halide printer 16 performs digital image exposure on silver halide paper, and then performs development, fixing, and stabilization processing to create a digital silver halide print. In this apparatus, a PLZT optical shutter array (not shown) is used as a silver halide exposure control unit. First interface
An (IF) 17 is an interface with the silver halide printer 16. Through the first interface 17, the memory 1
5 is sent to the silver halide printer 16, a print start command is sent from the overall control unit 20 to the silver halide printer 16, and the overall control unit 20 sends a print start instruction to the silver halide printer 16. Print status data is sent. Another printer 18 is a sublimation printer for producing a seal print. The printer 18 may be another type of printer (for example, an inkjet type or a hot-melt type printer) as long as it is suitable for sticker printing. The second interface (IF) 19 is an interface with the printer 18 for sealing, and
It has almost the same function as the interface 17.

Next, the overall control unit 2 in the image reproducing apparatus
A control sequence based on 0 will be described. 4 to 1
2 is a flowchart of a main sequence from a service menu display to selection of various services and printing. FIGS. 13 to 22 show a subroutine called from the main sequence. About control, FIG.
27 to FIG. 27, a print example of an index image in FIG. 28, a print example of a multi image in FIG. 29,
This will be described together with the example of the template shown in FIG.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart from the service menu display to the index display. When the present apparatus is started, first, a service menu usable in the present apparatus is displayed on the monitor 4 (step S101; hereinafter, "step" is omitted). FIG. 23 shows the service menu selection screen. The user selects a desired service on the touch panel. In the present embodiment, the following six services (print modes) can be used. (1) All prints (mode selected when printing all images recorded on media) (2) Individually designated print (mode for individually designating and printing images recorded on media) (3) Index print (Index print mode) (4) Sticker print (Steal print mode) (5) Image composition (Image composition mode) (6) Data storage (Data storage on media CD-R, FD, MO) mode)

After selecting image synthesis, a screen for selecting one of the multi-image creation mode and the template synthesis mode is displayed. (This selection screen is not shown.) The user selects a desired mode on the touch panel. In addition, the index print can be selected in the all print mode or the individually designated print mode.

An image recording medium (smart media, compact flash, etc.) that can be loaded into a digital camera or the like is very expensive in terms of storage capacity. Therefore, it is desirable that data storage processing can be specified simultaneously with printing of an image. Therefore, the data storage can be selected in the all print mode, the individually designated print mode, and the sticker print mode. In addition, index printing and sticker printing include image processing for combining a plurality of input image data. As will be described later, when a print mode including such image synthesis is selected, image processing takes a long time, and thus image data is synthesized before starting print control.

No matter which service is selected from the service menu, the process up to the index display is common. First, to capture images and display the index,
The user selects a recording medium for image input (S1).
02). The media may be displayed on a monitor so as to be selectable, or may be selected using the panel 7 or the keyboard 5.
When the user makes a selection, the display 21 of the loading port of the selected medium is lit on the display panel 7 (S10).
3). Next, it waits for the user to load the media (S
104). Further, in order to read data as accurately and as quickly as possible, and to select optimal image correction information, the user is asked to select a camera manufacturer and a camera model (S105, S106). Then, optimal image processing information is set based on the information set in S105 and S106 (S107). Here, the color and the resolution are analyzed based on the manufacturer and the camera model, and optimal correction data is set. As a result, even images captured by a digital camera having poor image quality can be printed beautifully with optimal correction.

Next, a data input / decompression subroutine
(See FIG. 13), image data is input from the medium, and decompressed (S108). FIG. 13 shows a subroutine of data input / decompression (FIG. 4, S108). After data is input from a recording medium (S801), the original image data is stored in a memory (S802). This is because the original image data is stored until the operation is completed, and is always accessible. At the time of data storage, this data is directly stored in a storage medium. Since the image data stored in the medium is raw data (original image data), even if a storage medium is brought, a print with the same performance can be provided. Also,
The image quality is not degraded by repeatedly storing data. Next, the data (compressed image data) is decompressed (S803),
To return.

After data input / decompression, an index is displayed on the screen of the monitor 4 without performing automatic image correction so that the user can confirm a normal image. Therefore, the index display (without image correction) subroutine
(See FIG. 14) (S109) to perform resolution conversion (reduction) for index display. FIG. 14 shows a subroutine for index display (no image correction) (FIG.
S109). Here, resolution conversion (reduction: reduction of resolution) is performed according to the size of the index display (S901), the display position is set on the screen of the monitor 4 (S902), and the process returns. Next, the created index display data is displayed on the screen of the monitor 4 (S110). Since the read data is sequentially displayed in the index, the trouble of waiting for the time for reading the image is avoided. S108 to S until the last recording data
Step 110 is repeated.

FIG. 24 shows an example of an index display screen. If the number of recorded images is large, press the “Next” key or “Back”
Send screen with key. Since the index screen on the monitor 4 is displayed in the same data arrangement as the standard index print, it is easy to grasp the image of the index print (see FIGS. 24 and 28). In addition, this display mode reduces the problem even if there is no index print preview display.

When the index is displayed on the screen of the monitor 4, the user is asked whether to perform automatic image correction (S111). When not performing automatic image correction (S
(NO at 111) The process advances to S119 to process various services. On the other hand, if the automatic image correction is selected (S111
YES), first, a flag F_APC representing automatic image correction
T is set to 1 (S112). Next, a subroutine for index display (automatic image correction) (see FIG. 15) is called (S113) to perform automatic image correction and image data reduction. FIG. 15 shows a subroutine of this index display (automatic image correction) (FIG. 14, S113). First, the decompressed original image is subjected to automatic image correction for each image (S1001). This automatic image correction
It has a function of converting an image of somewhat poor quality into a beautiful image (see FIG. 16). Next, resolution conversion (size reduction) is performed on this data (S1002), a display position on the screen is set (S1003), and the routine returns. As described above, by performing the automatic image correction on the original image data, the automatic image correction at the time of index display and the automatic image correction result at the standard size can be made the same. (If you perform automatic image correction after performing reduction first,
The finish may be slightly different. If speed is prioritized over consistency of the finished image quality, automatic image correction is performed after reduction is performed first. Next, monitor 4
Are sequentially displayed (S114). Until the last recorded image is processed, S
The processing of 113 to S114 is repeated to sequentially display the index. When the index display is completed by the above-described processing, a plurality of image-corrected images are displayed on the monitor 4, so that the tendency of the image correction of the present apparatus can be easily understood.
Since the image without correction is shown after the image without correction, the effect of the automatic image correction is clearly understood. It is easier to understand if the screen is divided vertically and horizontally.

Since the user can confirm the effect of the entire correction on the index screen, it is very easy to determine whether or not the desired image correction is made. Therefore, next, the user is checked whether or not the automatic image correction is a favorite (S115). The user confirms whether or not the image correction of the apparatus matches the user's preference for a plurality of images displayed on the index screen, and selects whether or not to perform automatic image correction. If the user decides that it is the preferred automatic image correction,
The process jumps to S119, and performs the service previously selected in S101.

If the user determines that the image correction is not the desired image correction (NO in S115), the automatic image correction is not set again (flag F_APCT = 0) (S116), and the subroutine without index display image correction is called. Then, the index image data without correction is displayed (S118). The user makes a final check by looking at the display data.

As described above, whether or not a desired automatic image correction is performed is checked based on the index screen. Therefore, a digital still camera, in which a remarkable image quality tendency is likely to appear in the entire image, or a unique image forming method in the camera. It is possible to reproduce the image of the user's favorite with respect to the image of the digital still camera performing the operation. As a result, it becomes possible to receive a favorite print image after a comfortable operation. In particular, such a selection method is desirable in a self-type image reproducing apparatus that can be operated by a photographer who is not a professional (such as a clerk of a photo shop) who always handles images. When the input of the image data and the display of the index are completed, the user is required to remove the medium to prevent the destruction of the image data (S119). After that, S101
According to the service menu selected in step, the flow proceeds to various services.

As described above, after the image reproducing method is selected first, the image data is taken in, and after confirming the effect of the automatic correction of the image data, a detailed reproducing method can be selected. For this reason, it is possible to select an image reproducing method most suitable for the image while checking the image data. In this case, for example, if you want to print 100% but also need an index print, or if you want to print 100% and set the size of the print yourself, or if you want to print 100% and save data at the same time, The selection of such a combination of image reproduction methods can be set in a series of flows. Thus, comfortable image reproduction with reduced operation time and waiting time can be realized.

Next, the processing of various services (all prints, individual designated prints, index prints, sticker prints, data storage) will be described. First, the full print mode will be described. FIG. 5 is a flowchart when all copies are selected. First, the following settings are displayed on the screen of the monitor 4 simultaneously with the display of the index image (S201 to S203). As a result, one of the following services can be selected. Print size <L / H> Index print <Yes / No> Save data <CD-R, FD, MO, No> For 100% print, print size = "L", Index print = "Yes", Data save = "CD-R"
Is set as the default. However, if the user wants to make changes in this screen state, the settings can be arbitrarily changed. Further, together with the above settings, the amount of money under the current settings is calculated and displayed on the monitor 4 (S204). FIG. 25 shows an example of the screen in this state. The menu can be changed at the same time as the index screen is displayed, and the amount corresponding thereto is displayed, so that selection according to the budget can be made. When the setting is completed, when the user presses the “OK” button, the process proceeds to the next step (S205).

Next, a subroutine for inserting a storage medium (see FIG. 17) is called (S206), and it is confirmed that data storage is set. When the storage medium is inserted by the user, the service contents and the final amount are displayed on the monitor 4 again (S207 to S208), and the user waits for a deposit. FIG. 26 shows an example of this screen. When there is a deposit, a charge process such as change is performed (S209).

Here, the operation proceeds to the print control state. First,
In order to perform settings and data creation to be performed before entering the print control loop, a subroutine for print preprocessing (see FIG. 19) is called (S210). When entering the print control loop, first, a subroutine for image processing (see FIG. 21) is called to convert the recorded image data into a printable image (S211). Here, data decompression, automatic image correction, resolution conversion, and the like are performed. In order to make full use of the high-speed performance of the silver halide printer 16, only processing that can be performed in a time shorter than one image exposure time of the printer is performed.

When the image processing (S211) is completed, next, in order to match the characteristics of the PLZT optical shutter array of the printer 16, color correction and the like are performed so that the image displayed on the screen and the printed image become the same. PLZT data conversion is performed (S212), and image data for printing is stored in the memory for output of the PLZT optical shutter array (S213). The data stored therein is sequentially read out by hardware and transferred to the printer 16 via the first interface 17. The print control loop (S211 to S213) is repeated until all the image data including the index image is completed.

In the printer 16, the transferred data is:
The photographic paper is exposed by the PLZT optical shutter array (S
215), a print image is created through processes such as development, fixing, stabilization, and drying (S216). The print processing (S215 to S216) is repeated until the data transfer is completed. The print processing side is designed to wait for data reception unless the data from S213 is transmitted. However, when waiting for data reception, the processing per sheet cannot achieve the full performance of the high-speed silver halide printer. Therefore, the loop of S211 to S213 is desirably completed within the print processing time. When the processing of all the image data is completed in the print control loop (S211 to S213), next, data storage processing (see FIG. 18) is performed (S214). The silver halide printer takes several minutes to print the first print, but the print interval between prints is short. For printers such as silver halide printers, which take a long time from print data output to print completion, even if data storage processing is performed after data output is completed, if it is completed within a few minutes, data storage is completed at the same time as print completion are doing. Even if the number of stored data is large, the control at this timing minimizes the waiting time.

Another point to achieve this control is for the user to complete loading of the storage media before entering print control. When the loading is completed, the user can leave the place when printing is started. If it returns after a predetermined time, both printing and data saving have been completed. Since image recording media (smart media, compact flash, and the like) that can be loaded into a digital camera or the like are extremely expensive in terms of storage capacity, it is often conceivable that data storage processing is specified simultaneously with printing of an image. Since the user can specify the printing of image data and the saving of image data at the same time, after waiting for the print processing time,
There is no need to wait twice or wait for unnecessary time, such as saving data and waiting for data saving processing.

Next, the individual designation print mode will be described. FIG. 6 is a flowchart when the individually designated print is selected. First, on the monitor 4, the index screen display is changed to a display in which the number of prints is set (S
301). At the time of setting the number of images, when an image is selected on the monitor 4 with the touch panel, the image is enlarged. The user
The number of prints is set while checking the image in detail (S302). At the same time as displaying the index image and the number of prints, the following settings are displayed (S303 to S)
305). Print size <L / H> Index print <Yes / No> Data save <CD-R, FD, MO, No> In the case of individual print mode, print size =
"L", index print = "none", data save =
"None" is set as the default. However, if the user wants to change it, the user can arbitrarily change the setting in this screen state. Further, similarly to the whole print mode, the amount of money at the current setting is further calculated and displayed (S30).
6). The menu can be changed at the same time as the index screen is displayed, and the amount corresponding to the menu is displayed, so that selection according to the budget can be made. When the setting is completed, when the user presses an “OK” button (S307), the process proceeds to the next step.

Next, the setting for data storage is confirmed, and insertion of a storage medium is waited according to the setting (S308). When the medium is inserted by the user, the service contents and the final amount are displayed again, and the user waits for the payment (S
309-S310). Then, when there is a deposit, charge processing such as change is performed (S311). Next, the operation proceeds to the print control state. The printing is performed in substantially the same manner as in the full print mode in FIG. S313 to S316 of this flow correspond to S211 to S216 in FIG.
Corresponding to Here, a detailed description is omitted to avoid duplication of description.

Next, the index print mode will be described. The basic index print is 3
This is a screen in which four images are arranged vertically, and if the number of recorded images increases, the size of one image is reduced. Up to 5 images horizontally and 7 images vertically can be printed. FIG. 27 shows an example of this screen. FIG. 15 shows the service menu (FIG. 2)
An example of an index print output when index print is selected in 3) and other menus is shown. In a basic setting, a print in which cut perforations are displayed is output. By cutting along this line, it can be stored in a CD-R case. The index display screen displayed in the index print mode will be described later with reference to FIG. 22. However, in the case of 5 * 7 = 35 or more recorded images, printing cannot be performed with a standard print size. The user can select whether to make it horizontal or plural. When printing an index print on a recording medium that contains a lot of image data,
Since it was possible to choose between landscape and multiple,
It is possible to obtain the user's favorite index print.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart when index print is selected. When the index print mode is selected, index image data is first created to display the print state (S401, FIG. 22).
reference). Next, resolution conversion or the like is performed on the created index image data, and an image in an index print state is displayed on the monitor 4 (S402). FIG. 27 shows an example of the display screen. Further, on this screen, the setting of the number of index prints (S403), selection of data storage (S404), and the current amount (S405) are also displayed at the same time. The default settings when the index print is selected are: index print number = “1”, data storage = “CD-R”, but can be changed by the user's will.

Next, while checking the preview screen of the index print and the current amount, if you like, "O
The user presses the "K" button to proceed to the next step (S406). Next, if data storage is selected, the process waits for insertion of a storage medium (S407). When the medium is inserted, substantially the same processing is performed as in the all print mode in FIG. 5 and the individual designation print mode in FIG. 6 (S408 to S417). S408 to S417 in this flow correspond to S207 to S216 in FIG. Here, a detailed description is omitted to avoid duplication of description.

In the above-described example, the index print mode can be selected by the user only when the number of print images is equal to or more than the predetermined number. However, in the modified example of the index print, a first print mode in which a plurality of images are printed on one sheet of paper on the monitor screen when the index print is selected regardless of the number of print images, or The user can select a second print mode for printing a plurality of images on a plurality of (two or more) papers. Printing is performed in a print mode selected by the user. In the above, the index print has been described as an example of printing a plurality of digital image data on one sheet of paper. However, when printing a plurality of digital image data on one sheet of paper, even in other print modes for printing a plurality of digital image data on one sheet of paper, a plurality of sheets or a landscape / portrait print mode is selected. Can be made possible.

Next, the seal print mode will be described. FIG. 8 is a flowchart of the sticker print mode. When the seal print is selected, first, the user selects an image to be used as a seal (S501). The selected image is enlarged and displayed (S502), and if the image is good, the process proceeds to the next (S503). Next, the resolution of the selected image is converted and reduced, a plurality of the images are arranged to form seal image data, and the created seal image data is preview-displayed (S504). The user sets the required number of images while viewing the image data (S505), checks the amount of money (S506), and presses the "OK" button if it is good (S50).
7).

Next, for confirmation, the service contents and the amount of money are displayed (S508 to S509), and after the charge processing (payment, change) (S510), the process proceeds to the seal print control. First, in the pre-print processing (see FIG. 19), necessary processing is performed before print control (S511). Next, data is transferred to the sticker printer (sublimation type printer) 18 until the set number of prints is reached (S512). The sticker printer 18 receives the image data via the second interface 19 (S513) and performs print processing (S514). Until the image data ends,
This print processing is repeated.

Next, the image composition mode will be described.
In this mode, multi images and template images are printed. FIG. 29 shows some examples of a multi-image. Images on two or four sides are combined in the vertical or horizontal direction, and the obtained multi-image is printed on one sheet of paper. FIG. 30 shows some examples of the template. The selected template is combined with the image. FIG.
9 is a flowchart of an image synthesis mode. In the image composition mode, first, the user selects one of the multi-image creation mode and the template composition mode using the touch panel. Therefore, first, it is determined whether or not the selected mode is the multi-image creation mode (S60). If the multi-image creation mode is selected, a multi-image creation routine is entered (S61, see FIG. 10). If the multi-image creation mode is not selected, a template synthesis routine is entered (S62, see FIG. 11).

FIG. 10 shows a multi-image creation (FIG. 9, S6).
It is a flowchart of 1). First, the user selects the type of multi-image creation (S6101). here,
Two-sided / 4-sided and vertical / horizontal arrangement can be selected. Next, the user selects a plurality of images to be printed (S610).
2). The selected image is enlarged and displayed (S6103), and if the image is good, the process proceeds to the next (S6104). Next, the resolution of the selected image is converted and reduced, a plurality of images are arranged to form multi-image data, and the created multi-image data is preview-displayed (S6105). The user sets the required number while viewing the image data (S6106), confirms the amount (S6107), and presses the “OK” button if OK (S6108).

Next, for confirmation, the service contents and the amount of money are displayed (S6109 to S6110), and after the charge processing (payment, change) (S6111), the flow proceeds to the multi-image print control. First, in the pre-print processing (see FIG. 19), necessary processing is performed before print control (S
6112). Next, a process of creating a composite image is performed (S611).
3) Convert to PLZT data (S6114),
The T data is output (S6115). This is repeated until the set number of prints is reached. The printer 18 performs print processing (S6116), and performs development processing and the like (S6117). This print processing is repeated until the image data ends.

FIG. 11 shows the template synthesis (FIG. 9, S6).
It is a flowchart of 2). First, the user selects a template (S6201). Next, the user selects an image to be combined with the template (S620).
2). The selected image is enlarged and displayed (S6203), and if the image is acceptable, the process proceeds to the next (S6204). Next, template image data is synthesized from the selected template and image, and the created template image data is preview-displayed (S6205). The user sets the required number of images while viewing the image data (S6206), checks the amount (S6207), and presses the "OK" button if OK (S6208).

Next, for confirmation, the service contents and the amount of money are displayed (S6209 to S6210), and after the charge processing (payment, change) (S6211), the flow proceeds to the template image print control. First, pre-print processing (FIG. 1)
9), necessary processing is performed before print control (S6212). Next, image processing is performed (S6213),
The data is converted into PLZT data (S6214), and the PLZT data is output (S6215). This is repeated until the set number of prints is reached. The printer 18 performs print processing (S6216), and performs development processing and the like (S62).
17). This print processing is repeated until the image data ends.

Next, the data storage mode will be described. FIG. 12 is a flowchart of the data storage mode. First, the user selects a storage medium (S70).
1). The default selection is "CD-R", which is not rewritable, but can be changed as desired. Next, the user selects an image to be stored (S702). By default, “all images” are recorded on the recording medium, but a stored image can be selected as desired. Next, a fee is calculated and displayed according to the storage medium, the number of stored images, and the image size (S703). One example of the calculation formula is as follows, regardless of the storage medium. Basic charge = 100 yen. 10 yen per sheet (100 KB or less), 5 yen (100 yen
Kbytes to 1MB), 30 yen (1MB to). Note that the fee may be changed according to the resolution. If the setting is good, the user presses the "OK" button (S70).
4), proceed to the next.

Next, by calling a subroutine for inserting the storage medium, the CPU waits for the insertion of the storage medium (S70).
5). Service content confirmation and amount confirmation (S706 to S70)
After performing 7), charge processing (payment, change) is performed (S708), and the process proceeds to the next step. Next, by calling a subroutine for data storage processing (see FIG. 18), the data is stored and the processing is terminated (S709).

The various subroutines will be described below. FIG. 16 shows a subroutine for automatic image correction (FIG. 15,
S1001). This subroutine is a subroutine for reproducing a clear image even if an image of a somewhat poor image quality is input. First, a scene is determined (S1101). This is for automatically determining a scene such as a person photographing scene, a landscape scene, and a light source state, and performing an optimal correction for the scene. Next, an optimal correction coefficient is set based on the determined scene content and the camera information (manufacturer, camera model, etc.) set in S107 (S1102). Next, with the set correction coefficient, frequency correction (edge enhancement, noise reduction, etc.), contrast correction (contrast enhancement, etc.), color correction (skin color correction, light source correction, camera characteristic correction, etc.) are performed (S1103). ~
(S1105), and returns.

FIG. 17 shows insertion of a storage medium (S2 in FIG. 5).
06, S308 in FIG. 6, S407 in FIG. 7, S50 in FIG.
The subroutine of 5) is shown. This subroutine is a subroutine for prompting a user to insert a storage medium when data storage is selected, and waiting for insertion of a storage medium. First, it is confirmed whether or not the data storage setting has been made (S1201). If not, there is no need to insert a storage medium, and the process returns without doing anything.
If the setting of data storage has been made, a display for prompting the user to insert the storage medium is performed next (S120).
2) Wait for media insertion by the user. The insertion of the storage medium is confirmed (S1203). If the storage medium is inserted (S1204), the process returns.

FIG. 18 shows a data storage process (S21 in FIG. 5).
4, S316 in FIG. 6, S415 in FIG. 7, S50 in FIG.
The subroutine 9) is shown. First, it is checked whether data saving is set, and if data saving is not set, the process returns without doing anything (S1301). Next, it is confirmed whether or not the mode is the data storage mode (the mode in which the “data storage” service is selected in the menu for selecting a service to be used) (S1302). If the mode is not the data saving mode (all prints, individual designated prints, etc.), a setting is made to save all data recorded on the recording medium (S1303). In the data saving mode, the user can select the saved data, so that the user sets to save only the image data selected by the user (S1304). And
The original image data of the set data number is stored in the storage medium (S1305). By storing the data of the original image, adverse effects such as image deterioration due to repeated image correction can be avoided. Also, if the original image is saved, when this saved data is input and printed with this machine,
It can provide an image print of the same performance as the first time.

FIG. 19 shows a print pre-process (S21 in FIG. 5).
0, S312 in FIG. 6, and S411) in FIG. In this subroutine, prior to print control, it is determined whether or not this image processing can be performed within the time in the print control loop, and processing that cannot be performed in the control loop is processed in advance. First, it is checked whether or not there is a synthetic print that requires a considerable time to create (S14).
01). If there is no composite print, the process skips to step S1303. If there is a composite print, the process advances to step S1402 to calculate the processing time of the composite print image. Table 1 shows the image specifications considered to be standard in this image reproducing apparatus (image data capacity at the time of compression: 1.4 Mbytes, image compression method: JPEG,
The image compression ratio: 1/8) indicates the time required for each image processing and printing. The calculation formula will be described later. Next, it is confirmed whether or not there is a standard print (S1403). If there is no standard print, the process proceeds to S1405. If there is a standard print, the process advances to step S1404 to calculate the image processing time of the standard print. The image processing time of the standard print will be described below together with the method of calculating the image processing time of the composite print.

[0050]

[Table 1] Table 1 Standard image processing time

Table 1 shows the standard image processing time. The times shown in Table 1 correspond to the conditions (1.4
(M bytes, JPEG compression, 1/8 compression).
Data decompression time (ta1c = 2 seconds) as basic time,
There are automatic image correction time (ta2c = 2 seconds) and resolution conversion (enlargement) (ta3c = 2 seconds). Also, as the image synthesis time, the index image synthesis time (basic time tb1c)
= 5 seconds, additional time per image tb2c = 2 seconds, composite time of seal image (basic time tb3c = 5 seconds), composite time of multiple images (two multi-tb4c = 8 seconds, four multi-tb5c = 18) Seconds), template synthesis time (tb
6c = 4 seconds). The print time tp = 8 seconds.

The time required for each print type image processing can be calculated, for example, by the following equation. <Processing time for standard printing> Data decompression time ta1 = ta1c * ((1/8) / image compression ratio) * α (1-1) (where α is a proportional coefficient) Automatic image correction time ta2 = ta2c * (Image data capacity / 1.4 Mbytes) (1-2) Resolution conversion (enlargement) time ta3 = ta3c * (Image data capacity / 1.4 Mbytes) (1-3) Accordingly, the image processing time ts for standard print is Ts = ta1 + ta2 + ta3 (when all of the above are performed) (2) <Synthesized image creation time> The index image creation time (including data decompression and automatic image correction) ti is as follows. ti = tblc + index image data number * (ta1 + ta2 + tb2c * image data capacity / 1.4 Mbytes) (3)

Since an index image or the like may have data created in advance for image display, it is next checked whether or not the composite image is incomplete (S1405), and if it has been created, the process jumps to S1408. . If the composite image is incomplete, then the composite print image processing time (for example, the index image creation time) is reduced to the print time t.
It is checked whether it is longer than p, and if shorter, it is skipped (S1406). In most cases, the synthetic print image processing time is long. In such a case, a subroutine for creating a composite image (see FIG. 20) is called to create a composite image (S1407).

Next, it is confirmed whether or not the image processing time for the standard print is longer than the print (for exposure) time (S1408). In the case of an image under standard conditions (1.4 Mbytes, JPEG compression, ８ compression), from Table 1 and Equation (2), the image processing time is ts = 6 seconds, and the print time is shorter than tp = 8 seconds. Become. Therefore, when printing an image of a size close to the standard one by one, the image processing is completed within the printing time. However, when the image data capacity becomes considerably large (printing of extremely large data or printing in which a plurality of images are combined into one such as an index print), or when the image compression ratio becomes large, The image processing time may exceed the printing time. Therefore, for an image that exceeds the print (exposure) time, image processing is partially performed in the pre-print image processing so that the image processing time in the print control loop does not exceed the print time (S140).
9).

As described above, when the image processing time exceeds the printing time, a certain amount of image processing is completed before the image printing, so that the total printing time can be shortened. For example, when printing an image of a size close to the standard one by one, the image processing can be completed within the print time, but printing of extremely large size data,
In the case of a print such as an index print in which a plurality of images are combined into one and printed, some image processing is completed before the image print. Thus, a device having the following advantages can be provided. (1) The data transmission / reception unit for printing can be simplified. (2) By keeping the printing interval substantially constant in consideration of the image processing time for printing, the stability of the printed image can be ensured. (3) Relatively inexpensive image processing means can be used. In the present embodiment, the image processing is performed in the pre-print processing when the image processing time exceeds the printing time even if it is a little. However, the pre-processing is performed when the time is somewhat longer than a certain margin. You may do it.

FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a composite image creation (FIG. 19, S14).
07). Index image,
This is a subroutine for creating image composite data such as a seal image. When it is confirmed that the index image is to be created (S1501), an index image creating subroutine (see FIG. 22) is called to create an index image, and the process returns (S1502). If it is confirmed that the creation of a seal image has been performed (S1503), synthesis of the seal image is performed (S1504), and the process returns. In the seal image synthesis, the selected frame and the selected image data are synthesized, the image is reduced, and the reduced image data is arranged. Also, multi-image (two-sided, four-sided multi)
If the creation is confirmed (S1505), two or four images are printed on one print sheet (S1505).
1506). Although the flow is not shown here, if the processing can be performed by the same processing as that of the index image, the multi images are combined (that is, the size of the selected image is adjusted and the images are arranged), and the process returns. If it is not a multi-image, it is determined that the image is a template combination, the template combination is performed (S1507), a desired type of frame and character are selected, combined with a desired image, and the process returns.

FIG. 21 shows a subroutine of image processing (S211 in FIG. 5, S313 in FIG. 6, and S412 in FIG. 7). In this subroutine, image processing is performed during a print control loop. First, it is confirmed whether the data is composite image data (S1601). In the case of the present embodiment, in the case of composite image data, the image processing time is longer than the print (exposure) time, and the composite image data is created in advance so that the user can confirm the composite state. Therefore, the image processing has been completed before the print preprocessing. Therefore, in the case of the image composite data, the process returns without performing any processing.
If it is not composite image data, it is original image data,
Next, the original image data is decompressed (S1602). In this embodiment, in order to reduce the memory capacity, data other than the decompressed data is not stored. However, if the memory capacity is sufficient, if the decompressed data is stored in the memory, this step can be skipped. Is done. If the image processing takes a long time, data decompression may have been completed in the pre-print processing, and this case is also skipped.

Next, the automatic image correction flag (F_APCT) set while confirming the index display is confirmed.
If the automatic image correction is not selected, skip (S
1603). If the automatic image correction has been selected, the automatic image correction subroutine is called to perform the automatic image correction optimal for the camera model and scene (S1603 to S1603).
1604). As in step S1602, if image processing has already been completed, the processing is skipped. Next, resolution conversion for printing is performed (S1605). That is, since the image size differs depending on the camera that has been photographed, and the PLZT optical shutter array for exposure performs exposure processing at a high resolution of 400 DPI, the resolution is increased in accordance with the PLZT optical shutter array. If it ends, it returns.

FIG. 22 shows an index image creation (FIG. 2).
0, S1502) is a flowchart of a subroutine. First, it is checked whether the number of images is equal to or more than a predetermined number (35) (S1701). If the number is 35 or less, printing can be performed on one standard type of paper.
Go to 02 and set the standard index. Also, if the number of images is 35 or more, it becomes quite difficult to store the images in the standard paper size.
Check with the user to see if there are multiple copies. It is confirmed whether or not to use the landscape index (S1703). If YES, the landscape index is set (S1704), and S1706 is set.
Jump to If the user does not like the landscape index, a multi-sheet index is set (S1705).
Then, index image data is created according to the setting of each index (S1706), and the process returns.

[0060]

According to the present invention, a plurality of images obtained by performing automatic image correction on an image of a digital still camera in which a unique picture is made are easily displayed on the entire image. The user can then determine the overall effect (image tendency) of the automatic image correction and select whether or not to apply the automatic image correction. As a result, a troublesome operation that requires a long time, such as setting the presence or absence of image correction while checking each sheet, is eliminated. In addition, it is less likely that the effect of the image correction is erroneously determined. As a result, it becomes possible to receive a favorite print image after a comfortable operation. In particular, such a selection method is desirable in a self-type image reproducing apparatus that can be operated by a photographer who is not a professional (such as a clerk of a photo shop) who always handles images. Preferably, the entire effect of the automatic image correction can be confirmed from the display of the index screen. Further, in the above image reproducing apparatus,
Since the image data without image correction is also displayed, the user can
The effect of the entire automatic image correction can be more easily determined.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an image reproducing apparatus.

FIG. 2 is a plan view of a panel and a media loading unit.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an image reproducing apparatus.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart from a start to an index display.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart for selecting all prints.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart for selecting an individually designated print.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart for selecting an index.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart for selecting a sticker print.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart for selecting an image synthesis print.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart of a subroutine for creating a multi-image.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart of a template image synthesis subroutine.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart when data storage is selected.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart of a data input / decompression subroutine.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart of a subroutine of index display (automatic image correction).

FIG. 15 is a flowchart of a subroutine for index display (without automatic image correction).

FIG. 16 is a flowchart of a subroutine for automatic image correction.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart of a subroutine of a storage media insertion process.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart of a subroutine of data storage processing.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart of a subroutine of pre-print processing.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart of a subroutine for creating a composite image.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart of a subroutine of image processing P;

FIG. 22 is a flowchart of a subroutine for creating an index image.

FIG. 23 is a diagram of a display screen for menu selection.

FIG. 24 is a diagram of a screen of a sequential index display without image correction;

FIG. 25 is a diagram of a screen of a sequential index display in the case of automatic image correction.

FIG. 26 is a diagram of a service content display screen

FIG. 27 is a diagram of a condition setting screen for creating an index image.

FIG. 28 is a diagram of an example of an index print.

FIG. 29 is a diagram of an example of a multi-image composite print.

FIG. 30 shows an example of a template.

[Explanation of symbols]

4 monitor, 5,7 operation unit, 10-13
Media insertion slot, 16 silver halide printer, 18 seal printer, 20 overall control unit.

Claims (5)

[Claims] 1. For two or more digital image data,
Automatic image correction means for automatically performing image correction collectively, image data display means for displaying image data corrected by the automatic image correction means, and presence / absence of operation of the automatic image correction means by a user. An image reproducing apparatus comprising: a selection unit that enables selection. 2. The image reproducing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said image data display means displays an index of the image corrected by the automatic image correction means. 3. An image data input means for inputting digital image data from an image recording medium, and an automatic image correction means for automatically and collectively applying image correction to the image data input by the image data input means. An image reproducing apparatus comprising: an image data display unit that displays image data corrected by an automatic image correction unit; and a selection unit that allows a user to select whether to operate the automatic image correction unit. 4. The image reproducing apparatus according to claim 3, further comprising: displaying an image without image correction on the image data display means, and then selecting whether or not automatic image correction is performed by the selection means. An image reproducing apparatus comprising: 5. The image reproducing apparatus according to claim 3, further comprising, after displaying the index image on the image data display unit before the image correction, selecting the presence or absence of the automatic image correction by the selection unit. An image reproducing apparatus comprising a correction control unit.