JP2002214687A - Photograph automatic vending machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a photograph automatic vending machine which can provide a user with a variety of additional plays. SOLUTION: This machine is equipped with a camera 6 which photographs a subject 2 including a user on receiving coins and a printer 9 which outputs an image of the subject 2 photographed by the camera 6 as a photographic print and the subject 2 is allowed to execute additional plays according to the amount of the received coins, so the user can enjoy various additional plays according to coins and diversified customer's demands can be met. Further, it becomes easier to obtain a satisfactory image through various additional plays and the customer is satisfied sufficiently. For a game center, etc., the same user 2 is prevented from doing successive plays and then the turnover rate of customers can be prevented from decreasing.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a vending machine which is installed in a game center or the like, takes a coin or the like, shoots an object, and prints out the image on a sticker, card, paper, film or the like.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, many game vending machines have been installed in game centers and the like to take pictures and make sticker prints. As such a photo vending machine, one shown in FIG. 18 is generally used. In this device, a half mirror 53 is provided inside a main body 52 at an angle of about 45 °. This half mirror 53
A camera 55 for photographing a subject is provided at the back of the camera, and a monitor 56 for displaying an image photographed by the camera 55 is provided below the half mirror 53. In the figure, 51 is a controller, and 57 is a printer for printing a photographic print 58.

In the above-mentioned photo vending machine, an image is taken by the camera 55 by inserting a predetermined amount of coins, and an image taken by the camera 55 is displayed on the monitor 56 through the half mirror 53, and is displayed on the monitor 56. The reflected image is reflected by the half mirror 53 and can be confirmed by the subject 54. Then, the subject 54 takes a desired pose while checking his / her own appearance on the monitor 56, and performs a shutter operation by the controller 51 at a desired position to take a still image. This still image is combined with an appropriate frame or foreground image and printed as a photo print 58.

[0004]

However, in the above-mentioned conventional photo vending machine, it is only possible to perform a single play with a preset number of shots and play time with the amount of money initially inserted. The resulting image can only be output on the spot as a photographic print 58 such as a sticker. Recently, the needs of photo vending machines have been diversifying as the population has increased. In order to meet these needs, there have been provided many elaborate frames and foregrounds that are synthesized with the image of the user 54, but the image is simply output as a photographic print 58 on the spot. One thing is no longer being satisfied.

[0005] In addition, it is only necessary to be able to take a satisfactory image in one play, but this is not always the case, and it is often the case that the image is printed out after ending without being fully satisfied. It can happen. In such a case, the user cannot obtain sufficient satisfaction and must restart the play from the beginning in order to obtain a satisfactory print. Was. On the other hand, for game centers, etc., if the same user plays continuously,
That may worsen the turnover rate of the customer and give the customer dissatisfaction.

The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and has as its object to provide a photo vending machine capable of providing a user with various additional plays.

[0007]

[Means for Solving the Problems]

In order to achieve the above object, a photo vending machine according to the present invention is a photo vending machine for photographing a subject and selling the photograph, wherein a photographing means for photographing a subject including a user upon receipt of a price, And an image output means for outputting an image of the subject photographed as a photo print, so that the subject can execute the additional play in accordance with the received consideration.

That is, the photo vending machine of the present invention is configured to cause a subject to execute an additional play according to the received consideration. For this reason, the user can enjoy various additional plays according to the price, and can respond to diversified customer needs. In addition, a variety of additional plays make it easier to obtain a satisfactory image, so that the customer can be sufficiently satisfied. In addition, a game center or the like prevents continuous play by the same user and deteriorates the turnover rate of the customer. Can be prevented.

[0010] In the photo vending machine of the present invention, the user is prompted to select whether or not to execute the additional play before receiving the consideration.
If the price to be received is made different depending on the presence or absence of the additional play, for example, a higher price should be set when performing the additional play, and a lower price should be set for normal play without the additional play. Accordingly, even if a large number of additional plays are executed, the value corresponding to the additional play can be collected, and a loss hardly occurs in the store. If normal play is sufficient, it is possible to give the customer a sense of value with the value corresponding thereto.

In the photo vending machine of the present invention, when the additional play is executed by adding a price, for example, after confirming that a favorite photographed image is obtained based on the result of the photographing, the price is increased. Can be added to execute the additional play, or when the user does not like the expression, the user can end the normal play without adding a fee, and the convenience for the customer is improved.

In the photo vending machine of the present invention, a case where a plurality of types of additional play are prepared, a case where a means for selecting an additional play desired to be executed from the plurality of types of additional play, or a plurality of types of additional play are provided. When the additional play can be executed, the customer can enjoy various shootings by a plurality of types of additional play.

In the photo vending machine of the present invention, when a plurality of types of additional play are sequentially executed by adding a price, it is confirmed that a favorite photographed image is obtained based on a photographing result, for example. After that, the customer can successively determine the additional play from among a plurality of types of additional play, for example, by executing the additional play by adding a consideration, thereby increasing the convenience for the customer.

In the photo vending machine according to the present invention, when the additional play is an increase in the number of times that the photographing means can shoot, the number of times that the additional play can shoot can be increased, so that a favorite photographed image can be easily obtained. Satisfaction increases.
In this case, when an image selecting means for selecting a favorite image from a plurality of captured images obtained by a plurality of shootings is provided, a favorite image is selected from the plurality of captured images to make a photo print. It becomes possible. Further, in this case, when the image output means is to output a plurality of photographed images obtained by a plurality of photographing to a photographic print, a plurality of photographing is performed by the plurality of photographing obtained by the additional play. It is possible to obtain an image and output a photographic print on which a plurality of types of photographed images are printed. Furthermore, in this case, when the display device for displaying the photographed image to the user and the unit for retaking the displayed photographed image are provided, the number of retakes is increased by the number of times of photographing added in the additional play. This makes it easier to obtain a favorite photographed image.

In the photo vending machine of the present invention, when the additional play is an extension of the photographable time by the photographing means, a sufficient pose or facial expression or a hairstyle is created by the photographable time extended by the additional play. Can be adjusted, and undesired photographic prints are less likely to be produced. Further, in this case, when the display device includes a display unit for displaying the photographed image to the user and a unit for retaking the displayed photographed image, the number of times of retaking by the photographable time extended by the additional play is provided. And it becomes easier to obtain a favorite photographed image.

In the photo vending machine according to the present invention, a second image input means for allowing a user to input a second image before and after the photographing of the subject by the photographing means, and an image for synthesizing the photographed image by the photographing means and the second image. When the additional play is input and synthesis of the second image, a photograph print of the synthesized image obtained by synthesizing the photographed image and the second image is obtained by the additional play, and various customer needs are provided. Will be able to respond to

In the photographic vending machine of the present invention, the user is provided with a second time for a predetermined time before or after the photographing of the object by the photographing means.
A second image input unit for inputting an image, and an image synthesizing unit for synthesizing the image captured by the image capturing unit and the second image, and when the additional play is an extension of the inputtable time of the second image, The second image can be created until the user is satisfied with the inputtable time of the second image extended by the additional play.

In the vending machine of the present invention, there is provided a data transmitting means for transmitting image data to an external device. When the additional play is transmission of image data to an external device, a photographed image or a photographed image is taken by the additional play. Image data such as a composite image of the image and the second image is transmitted to an external device, and the image can be displayed or printed out by the external device for enjoyment.

The photo vending machine of the present invention is provided with data storage means for storing image data in a storage medium which can be taken out, and when the additional play is storage of image data in the storage medium, a photo print is printed. Not only can it be obtained, but also by additional play, image data such as a photographed image or a composite image of the photographed image and the second image can be stored in a storage medium such as a floppy disk and brought back, and the image can be displayed on a device such as a home. Or print it out and enjoy it.

In the photo vending machine of the present invention, there is provided a message input means for allowing a user to input a message, wherein the image output means outputs a message to the photo print together with the image. In the case of inputting a message to be output, the additional play allows the user to obtain a photo print in which a message such as a comment to a friend photographed together is printed in the photo print, thereby increasing the enjoyment of the user.

[0021]

Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an embodiment of a photo vending machine according to the present invention. The vending machine includes a housing 1 in which various devices are provided inside and on the surface, and a column 3 protruding from above and below the housing 1 to reach behind the subject 2. A curtain 5 serving as a background at the time of photographing is hung from the end portions of the two columns 3, and a space surrounded by the housing 1, the column 3, and the curtain 5 forms a booth for photographing the subject 2. are doing. On the upper column 3,
Two lights 4 for irradiating the subject 2 in the shooting booth are attached.

A camera 6 for photographing the subject 2 is provided inside the housing 1. A transparent plate 10 is fitted on a surface of the housing 1 located on the subject 2 side of the camera 6. Further, a computer device 7 that receives image data from the camera 6 and performs processing such as image synthesis is provided inside the housing 1. On the subject 2 side of the housing 1, a display 8 that receives an image signal such as a composite image transmitted from the computer device 7 and displays an image is provided. Further, a printer 9 for receiving image data transmitted from the computer device 7 and printing the image on a print medium 15 is provided inside the housing 1. The print medium 15 printed by the printer 9 is sent out from an outlet 19 formed on the front surface of the housing 1.

Further, an operation panel is provided on the side of the subject 2 of the housing 1, and the operation panel
Is provided. The controller 11 includes a touch pen 12. When the user 2 taps the surface of the display 8 with the touch pen 12 according to an operation instruction displayed on the display 8, the controller 2 performs various operations such as selection of additional play and shutter operation. An operation signal is sent to the computer device 7, and various operations described later are performed.

Further, the touch pen 12 can draw and input characters and figures by touching the tip of the touch pen 12 to the surface of the display 8. An image or the like is combined with a captured image of the subject 2 captured by the camera 6, displayed on the display 8, and printed on the print medium 15.

The touch pen 12 can input a questionnaire by operating the user 2 in accordance with an instruction displayed on the display 8, and can transmit the result of the input questionnaire to the outside. It has become.

In addition, a coin insertion slot (not shown) for inserting coins for consideration is provided on the front surface of the housing 1.
At a position inside the housing 1 adjacent to the coin insertion slot, a coin detection unit 17 (see FIG. 2) for detecting the inserted coin and transmitting a detection signal to the computer device 7 is provided. In addition, a computer device 7 is provided at an appropriate position on the front of the housing 1.
Speaker (not shown) that receives and outputs audio signals from
Is provided.

In this example, an image viewed by the user 2 from the display 8 and an image printed by the printer 9 are obtained by synthesizing a photographed image of the subject 2 and a handwritten input image with the touch pen 12 and the like.

The housing 1 receives data such as a photographed image transferred from the computer device 7 and a composite image of the photographed image and the handwritten image, and stores the data in a storage medium 21 such as a floppy disk. Is provided.

Next, the system configuration of the computer 7 will be described in detail.

As shown in FIG.
The input unit 35 of the display 8 is operated by the touch pen 12.
The control means 31 receives various operation signals input to the controller 11 via the controller 11 and performs various controls in accordance with the received operation signals. The control means 31 starts control such as photographing by receiving a detection signal from the coin detection unit 17.

The display 8 has a touch pen 12
Input unit 35 to which a handwritten image or an operation signal is input
And a display unit 36 for displaying an image and the like.
The handwritten image or the like input by the touch pen 12 is stored in the pen image storage unit 32, and the stored data such as the handwritten image is sent to the image combining unit 30 described later. Then, in the photo vending machine, as described later, by selecting the additional play C, it is possible to input not only a photograph but also input a handwritten image or the like and synthesize it with the photographed image.

An operation signal input by the touch pen 12 is sent to the control means 31 via the controller 11 to perform various controls.

Here, the computer device 7 is provided with a timer 26 for measuring the input possible time of the pen input image by the touch pen 12. The timer 26 is
The measurement is started almost simultaneously with the display of the instruction message to start the handwritten image by the control means 31 on the display 8. The input of a handwritten image or the like is stopped when the time measured by the timer 26 reaches a predetermined inputtable time (for example, 90 seconds) set in advance. In this photo vending machine, as will be described later, by selecting the additional play D, the inputtable time can be extended.

The computer device 7 is provided with a fixed image storage section 38, which fixes the captured image at a desired shutter timing by operating the touch pen 12 by the subject 2, and displays the still image on the display section 36 of the display 8.
And the user 2 is asked to confirm the preview. Then, the display 8 displays a screen prompting the user to select whether or not the user wants to retake the still image whose preview has been confirmed. Then, the shutter operation is performed again.

The computer 7 is provided with a counter 25 for counting the number of times of photographing by the camera 6 by operating the shutter. The counter 25 is reset by the detection of the first coin by the coin detection unit 17 and starts counting. The count of the counter 25 is set to a predetermined number of photographable times (for example, 3
When the number of times has been reached, re-shooting is stopped and the photographed image is forcibly printed. In this photo vending machine, as described later, by selecting the additional play A, the number of times of retaking can be added.

The computer device 7 is provided with an image synthesizing means 30. The still image fixed in the fixed image storage section 38 is input to the input section 35 of the display 8 by the touch pen 12, and the pen image storage section 32, a handwritten image such as a character or a figure stored in the memory 32 is synthesized. The combined image combined by the image combining means 30 is displayed on the display unit 36 of the display 8.

The computer device 7 is provided with a transmission / reception means 39. The transmitting / receiving means 39 includes:
For example, it is connected to a communication line (NET) such as the Internet, and outputs a captured image or a composite image to the outside via the communication line, and stores it in an external server, or outputs to a terminal device for display or printing. I can do it. In this photo vending machine, as will be described later, by selecting the additional play E, data such as a photographed image or a composite image of the photographed image and the handwritten image is transmitted to the outside.

Further, the computer device 7 includes a print control unit 34 for controlling printing by the printer 9. The computer device 7 includes a touch pen 1
A message storage unit 37 for storing the message input by the operation 2 is provided. The message stored in the message storage unit 37 is transferred to the print control unit 34 to generate print data, which is printed on the print medium 15 together with an image such as a captured image or a composite image. In this photo vending machine, as described later, by selecting the additional play B, it is possible to obtain a photo print in which a favorite message is printed together with a photographed image and a composite image.

Further, as described above, this photo vending machine receives data such as a photographed image and a composite image transferred from the computer device 7 and stores the data in the storage medium 21 such as a floppy disk. It has. In the photo vending machine, as described later, by selecting the additional play F, the photographed image and the composite image can be stored in the storage medium 21 such as a floppy disk and can be brought back.

Regarding the first example of the operation of the photo vending machine,
This will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.
Here, in FIGS. 3 to 9, “S” means a step.

First, the user 2 selects the type of play to be executed on the play selection screen displayed on the display section 36 of the display 8 (S100). On the play selection screen, for example, as shown in FIG. 10, a list of types of play and the number of coins (in this example, 100 yen coins) required for each play is displayed.

A play selection button 4 for selecting additional plays A to F to be added to the standard play is displayed on the play selection screen.
1a, a cancel button 41b for canceling the play once selected, and a start button 41 for starting the play
c and an amount display field 42 for sequentially displaying the total amount of money in the selected play.

In this example, as the play selection button 41a, a button for selecting addition of the number of times of shooting as the additional play A, a button for selecting printing of a message as the additional play B, and a handwritten image input as the additional play C A button for selecting a drawing by combining with the above, a button for selecting an extension of the drawing and handwritten image input time as an additional play D, a button for selecting transmission of image data and the like to the outside as an additional play E, A button for selecting a take-out of a disc on which image data and the like are recorded as a play F is provided. Note that the type of additional play is not limited to these.

In this example, when only the standard play is selected, the player does not need to tap the play selection button 41a.
By tapping the start button 41c, the process proceeds to the next step. On the other hand, when performing an additional play in addition to the standard play, a play selection button 41a for selecting a desired additional play is tapped. At this time, the number of additional plays to be selected may be one or two or more. The type of the additional play selected here is temporarily stored in the data memory in the control means 31.

Then, the number of coins required for the standard play is added, and the total amount of coins required for the selected additional play is displayed in the amount display field 42. By tapping the start button 41c, the process proceeds to the next step. .

Next, the user 2 enters the money amount display field 42
When the predetermined coin displayed in is inserted (S120),
The imaging of the subject 2 by the camera 6 is started (S14).
0) The captured image is displayed on the display unit 36 of the display 8 in real time.

Next, after the user 2 completes the position adjustment of the subject 2 while viewing the display image on the display 8 and inputs an operation signal for shutter operation in accordance with a screen instruction using the touch pen 12 (S160), the user 2 2 is instructed to take a pause, and after counting down for a predetermined time, the captured video at a predetermined moment is fixed in the fixed image storage unit 38 (S180). At this time, the captured image at that time is displayed on the display 8 as a still image.

Next, the user 2 is asked to confirm the preview of the still image, and is prompted to select whether or not he / she wants to retake the image (S200). In step 200, the user 2
If the user wishes to take a new image, it is checked whether the count of the counter 25 has reached a preset standard number of times of image capturing (S220). If it is determined in step 220 that the count of the counter 25 has not reached the specified number of times of imaging, the process returns to step 160, the imaging is continued, and the operations of steps 160 to 220 are repeated.

If it is determined in step 220 that the count of the counter 25 has reached the specified number of times of photographing, step 2
Proceeding to 40, it is confirmed whether or not A play has been selected. If A play is selected in step 240, the process proceeds to step 250 to execute the process for A play, and then proceeds to step 260.
If the play is not selected, the process directly proceeds to step 260 without executing the process for the A play.

Here, in the operation of the A-play processing, as shown in FIG. 4, it is confirmed whether or not the count of the counter 25 has reached the additional number of times of photographing (S252). If the number of additional shots has not been reached in step 252,
Returning to step 160, imaging is continued, and step 16
The operations from 0 to 252 are repeated, and if the number of additional shootings has been reached in step 252, the A-play processing ends and the process proceeds to step 260.

At step 260, it is confirmed whether or not the B play is selected. In step 260, B
If play is selected, the process proceeds to step 270 and B
After executing the play processing, the process proceeds to step 280, where B
If the play is not selected, the process directly proceeds to step 280 without executing the process for the B play.

Here, in the operation of the B-play processing, as shown in FIG. 5, first, a message input screen is displayed on the display section 36 of the display 8 to prompt the user 2 to input a message (S272). For example, as shown in FIG. 11, the message input screen includes a message input field 45 on which a cursor 46 is displayed, a kana icon 44a, an alphabet icon 44b, and a numeric icon 44c which are tapped when inputting a message. Each icon, a conversion button 43a for converting the input character string into Kana-Kanji characters, a correction button 43b for tapping when correcting the input character string or the like by the back space, and a next button 43c for proceeding to the next processing are displayed. Have been.

The input of the message is performed by the kana icon 44.
a, alphabetical icon 44b, and numeric icon 44c are tapped to input a character string, to perform appropriate Kana-Kanji conversion, and to make corrections as necessary. The input message is displayed in the message input field 45. When the input is completed and the next button 43c is tapped, the input message is stored in the message storage unit 37 (S2).
74), print data is generated (S276), the B-play processing ends, and the routine proceeds to step 280.

FIG. 12 shows an example of a photographic print on which a photographed image and a message are printed. In this example,
By selecting the additional play B, a sticker print in which the photographed image 47 and the message 48 are printed on the photo sticker 49 as a photograph print is obtained.

Next, at step 280, it is confirmed whether or not the C play is selected. If the C play is selected in step 280, the process proceeds to step 290 to execute the process for C play, and then proceeds to step 300. If the C play is not selected, the process for C play is not executed and Proceed to step 300.

Here, in the operation of the C-play processing, as shown in FIG. 6, first, input of a handwritten image or the like is started (S292). Here, an example of the input screen of the handwritten image is shown in FIG. In this handwritten image input screen, 27
Reference numerals a, 27b, and 27c denote a touch pen 1 when inputting a handwriting pen, a stamp image, and alphabet characters, respectively.
2 is an icon to tap.

When inputting a handwritten image, tap the handwritten pen icon 27a with the tip of the touch pen 12, and then touch the tip of the touch pen 12 with the displayed captured image 4
A handwritten image is input by drawing a picture or character by touching the image on the screen 7.

When inputting the stamp image, the icon 27b of the stamp image is tapped with the tip of the touch pen 12, and then the tip of the touch pen 12 is brought into contact with the displayed photographed image 47, whereby the stamp image is displayed. Is input.

When inputting alphabetical characters, the alphabetical character icon 27c is tapped with the tip of the touch pen 12, and then the tip of the touch pen 12 is brought into contact with the displayed photographed image 47 so that the alphabetical character is displayed. Is input.

In this way, as shown in FIG. 14, the handwritten image 29, the stamp image 28, and the like are input and synthesized on the displayed photographed image 47.

The input of the handwritten image and the like is continued until the time measured by the timer 26 reaches a preset standard inputtable time (for example, 90 seconds) (S).
294). When the standard inputtable time has been reached in step 294, the processing for C-play ends and step 300
Proceed to.

Next, in step 300, it is confirmed whether or not the D play is selected. If the D play is selected in step 300, the process proceeds to step 310 to execute the process for D play, and then proceeds to step 320. If the D play is not selected, the process for D play is not executed and Proceed to step 320.

Here, in the operation of the D-play processing, it is confirmed whether or not the time measured by the timer 26 has reached the additional inputtable time as shown in FIG. 7 (S312). If it is determined in step 312 that the additional inputtable time has not been reached, the process returns to step 292 to continue inputting the handwritten image. If the additional inputtable time has been reached in step 292, the D-play processing ends and step 320
Proceed to.

Next, at step 320, it is confirmed whether or not E-play has been selected. If the E-play is selected in step 320, the process proceeds to step 330 to execute the process for E-play, and then proceeds to step 340. If the E-play is not selected, the process for E-play is performed without executing the process. Proceed to step 340.

Here, in the E-play operation, as shown in FIG. 8, first, an input screen of the destination address is displayed on the display section 36 of the display 8 to urge the user 2 to input the address (S332). . The address input screen is, for example,
As shown in FIG. 15, an address input box 22 in which a cursor 46 is displayed, a kana icon 44a and an alphabet icon 44 which are tapped when inputting an address.
b, each icon of a numerical icon 44c, a conversion button 43a for converting an input character string into Kana-Kanji characters, a correction button 43b for tapping when correcting an input character string or the like by a back space, and proceed to the next processing. Next button 4
3c and an "unspecified" button 23 to be tapped when an address is not specified are displayed.

The input of the address is performed by the kana icon 44.
a, alphabetical icon 44b, and numeric icon 44c are tapped to input a character string, to perform appropriate Kana-Kanji conversion, and to make corrections as necessary. The input address is displayed in the address display field 22. In particular, when the address is not specified, when the “not specify” button 23 is tapped, the address of the predetermined service server set in advance is displayed in the address display column 22. When the input is completed and the next button 43c is tapped, data such as image data is transmitted to the above address (S334), and the E-play processing ends, and step 34 is performed.
Go to 0.

Next, in step 340, it is confirmed whether or not the F play is selected. If the F play is selected in step 340, the process proceeds to step 350 to execute the process for F play, and then proceeds to step 360. If the F play is not selected, the process for F play is not performed and the process is continued. Proceed to step 360.

As shown in FIG. 9, the operation of the F-play processing is as follows. First, the floppy disk 21 is inserted into the data storage means 33 (S352), and data such as image data is stored in the floppy disk 21. Is performed (S3
54), the floppy disk 21 is discharged (S356). When the floppy disk 21 is removed, the F-play ends, and the flow proceeds to step 360.

In step 360, the fixed photographed image, the composite image of the photographed image and the handwritten image (see FIG. 14), or the photographed image and the message (see FIG. 12) are printed on the print medium 15, and the photograph print is performed. Output is performed.

As described above, according to the above-described photo vending machine, the user 2 can enjoy various additional plays according to the price, and can meet the needs of diversified customers. In addition, a satisfactory image can be easily obtained by various additional plays, so that the customer can obtain sufficient satisfaction. In addition, for a game center or the like, continuous play of the same user 2 can be prevented, and the turnover of the customer can be reduced. Deterioration can be prevented.
In addition, by setting a high price for executing additional play and a low price for normal play without additional play, even if many additional plays are executed, it is possible to collect the corresponding price and store Is less likely to cause a loss, and if normal play is acceptable, the customer can be given a sense of value at a corresponding price.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating a second example of the operation of the photo vending machine. Here, in FIG. 16, “S” means a step.

This example is basically the same as the operation shown in FIGS. 3 to 9 except that a step of first selecting a play (S
In the case of the first coin insertion without 100), a coin is charged only for the standard play and the play is started (S120). Then, after the standard number of times of shooting in step 220 has been reached, an additional play to be added is selected (S230), and insertion of an additional coin in an amount corresponding to the selected additional play is requested (S235).

By doing so, for example, after confirming that a favorite photographed image has been obtained based on the result of photographing, additional payment is performed to execute additional play, or when the user does not like the expression, etc. For example, it is possible to end the game in normal play without adding a fee, and the convenience for the customer is enhanced. Other than that, it is the same as the first example, and has the same effect.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart for explaining a third example of the operation of the photo vending machine. Here, in FIG. 17, "S" means a step.

First, the user 2 first inserts a coin (S120). At this stage, play is started with coins charged only for the standard play. When the coin is inserted, imaging of the subject 2 by the camera 6 is started (S140), and the captured image is displayed on the display unit 36 of the display 8 in real time.

Next, after the user 2 completes the position adjustment of the subject 2 while viewing the display image on the display 8 and inputs an operation signal for shutter operation in accordance with a screen instruction using the touch pen 12 (S160), the user 2 2 is instructed to take a pause, and after counting down for a predetermined time, the captured video at a predetermined moment is fixed in the fixed image storage unit 38 (S180). At this time, the captured image at that time is displayed on the display 8 as a still image.

Next, the user 2 is asked to confirm the preview of the still image, and is prompted to select whether or not the user wants to retake the image (S200). In step 200, the user 2
If the user wishes to take a new image, it is checked whether the count of the counter 25 has reached a preset standard number of times of image capturing (S220). If it is determined in step 220 that the count of the counter 25 has not reached the specified number of times of imaging, the process returns to step 160, the imaging is continued, and the operations of steps 160 to 220 are repeated.

If it is determined in step 220 that the count of the counter 25 has reached the specified number of times of photographing, step 2
Proceeding to 40, a message screen is displayed on the display 8 for prompting the user to decide whether or not to perform additional shooting (S240). This message screen displays the message “Do you want to take additional pictures?” And the number of coins required for additional photography. Further, "YES" and "NO" buttons for inputting a decision as to whether or not to perform additional shooting are displayed.

If the user taps the "YES" button on this message screen, a message prompting the user to insert a coin "Please insert a coin" is displayed, and the system waits for the coin to be added. When the additional coin is inserted (S24)
5), A play processing for performing additional shooting is executed (S25)
0; see FIG. 4), and proceed to the next step 260. on the other hand,
If the "NO" button is tapped on the message screen of step 240, the process directly proceeds to step 260 without executing the A-play process.

At step 260, the display 8
A message screen for prompting the user to determine whether to print a message on the photo print is displayed (S260). This message screen displays the message "Print message?" And the number of coins required for the message. In addition, "YES" and "NO" buttons for inputting the determination of whether to print the message are displayed.

If the user taps the "YES" button on this message screen, a message prompting the user to insert a coin "Please insert a coin" is displayed and the system waits for the coin to be added. When an additional coin is inserted (S26)
5), a B-play process for inputting a message and generating print data is executed (S270; see FIG. 5), and the process proceeds to the next step 280. On the other hand, if the "NO" button is tapped on the message screen of step 260, the process directly proceeds to step 280 without executing the B-play processing.

At step 280, the display 8
A message screen for prompting the user to determine whether to input a handwritten image is displayed (S280). This message screen displays the message "Do you want to draw?" And the number of coins required for it. In addition, the user inputs “YE” to determine whether to input a handwritten image.
"S" and "NO" buttons are displayed.

If the user taps the "YES" button on this message screen, a message prompting the user to add a coin "Please insert a coin" is displayed, and the system waits for the coin to be added. When an additional coin is inserted (S28)
5), C play processing for inputting a handwritten image is executed (S290; see FIG. 6), and the process proceeds to the next step 300. On the other hand, in the message screen of step 280, "N
When the “O” button is tapped, the process directly proceeds to step 300 without executing the process for C play.

At step 300, the display 8
A message screen for prompting the user to determine whether to extend the input time of the handwritten image is displayed (S300). This message screen displays the message "Do you want to draw more?" And the number of coins required for it.
Also, "YES" and "NO" buttons for inputting a decision as to whether to extend the input time are displayed.

When the user taps the "YES" button on this message screen, a message prompting the user to insert a coin "Please insert a coin" is displayed, and the system waits for the coin to be added. When an additional coin is inserted (S30)
5), D play processing for extending the input time of the handwritten image is executed (S310; see FIG. 7), and the next step 32
Go to 0. On the other hand, in the message screen of step 300,
If the “NO” button is tapped, the process directly proceeds to step 320 without executing the D-play processing.

In step 320, the display 8
A message screen for prompting the user to determine whether to transmit an image is displayed (S320). This message screen is
The message "Do you want to send images over the Internet?" Is displayed along with the required number of coins. In addition, "YES" and "NO" buttons for inputting a determination as to whether to transmit an image are displayed.

If the user taps the "YES" button on this message screen, a message prompting the user to insert a coin "Please insert a coin" is displayed, and the system waits for the coin to be added. When an additional coin is inserted (S32
5), E-play processing for inputting a destination and transmitting data is executed (S330; see FIG. 8), and the next step 3
Proceed to 40. On the other hand, if the "NO" button is tapped on the message screen of step 320, the process proceeds to step 340 without executing the E-play process.

In step 340, the display 8
A message screen is displayed to prompt the user to save the image on the disk and decide whether to bring it back (S340). This message screen will ask "Do you want to return the image with the disc?"
And the required number of coins are displayed. Further, "YES" and "NO" buttons for inputting a decision as to whether to bring back the image are displayed.

If the user taps the "YES" button on this message screen, a message prompting the user to insert a coin "Please insert a coin" is displayed, and the system waits for the coin to be added. When an additional coin is inserted (S34)
5), F-play processing for storing data on the disc is executed (S350; see FIG. 9), and the next step 36
Go to 0. On the other hand, in the message screen of step 340,
If the “NO” button is tapped, the process directly proceeds to step 360 without executing the F-play processing.

In step 360, the fixed photographed image, the composite image of the photographed image and the handwritten image (see FIG. 14), or the photographed image and the message (see FIG. 12) are printed on the print medium 15, and the photograph print is performed. Output is performed.

By doing so, for example, after confirming that a favorite photographed image has been obtained based on the result of photographing, the user can add additional value to execute additional play, or when he / she does not like the expression or the like. For example, it is possible to end the game in normal play without adding a fee, and the convenience for the customer is enhanced. Other than that, it is the same as the first example, and has the same effect.

In each of the above embodiments, the shooting is started by inserting a coin, and the number of shootable times is increased and the time for which a handwritten image can be input is extended by inserting an additional coin. However, the present invention is not limited to this. It is intended to include various aspects as long as it can be paid for the photographing, such as a bill, a prepaid card, a medal, a credit card, a cash card, and the like. Further, these are intended to include not only a case where they are used alone but also a case where they are used in combination.

In each of the above embodiments, the number of times of photographing with the camera 6 is counted by the counter 25, and when the number of times of photographing reaches a preset number of times of photographing, the number of times of photographing is added by inserting additional coins. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The photographable time of the camera 6 is measured by the timer 26, and when a preset photographable time is reached, the photographable time is extended by inserting additional coins. You may do so.

In the above embodiment, an image selecting means for selecting a desired image from a plurality of photographed images obtained by photographing a plurality of times may be provided. By doing so, it becomes possible to select a favorite image from a plurality of photographed images and make a photo print. It is also possible to output a plurality of photographed images obtained by photographing a plurality of times to a photographic print. By doing so, it is possible to obtain a plurality of photographed images by a plurality of photographings obtained by the additional play and to output a photograph print in which a plurality of kinds of photographed images are printed.

[0096]

As described above, according to the photo vending machine of the present invention, the user can enjoy various additional plays according to the price, and can meet the needs of diversified customers. In addition, a variety of additional plays make it easier to obtain a satisfactory image, so that the customer can be sufficiently satisfied. In addition, a game center or the like prevents continuous play by the same user and deteriorates the turnover rate of the customer. Can be prevented.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a sectional view showing an embodiment of a photo vending machine of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a system configuration diagram of the photo vending machine.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a first example of the operation of the photo vending machine.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an A-play operation.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of B play.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the C play.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of D-play.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an E-play operation.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an F-play operation.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a play selection screen.

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a message input screen.

FIG. 12 illustrates an example of a photo print.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of an input screen for a handwritten image.

FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of an input state of a handwritten image.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of an address input screen.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating a second example of the operation of the photo vending machine.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating a third example of the operation of the photo vending machine.

FIG. 18 is an explanatory view showing a conventional photo vending machine.

[Explanation of symbols]

 2 subject 6 camera 9 printer

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Claims (14)

[Claims] 1. A photograph vending machine for photographing and selling a subject, wherein the photographing means photographs a subject including a user in response to a charge, and an image for outputting an image of the subject photographed by the photographing means as a photographic print. A photo vending machine, comprising: output means, and configured to cause a subject to execute an additional play in accordance with a received amount of consideration. 2. The photo vending machine according to claim 1, wherein the user is prompted to select whether or not to execute the additional play before receiving the consideration, and the received price is made different depending on the presence or absence of the additional play. 3. The photo vending machine according to claim 1, wherein the additional play is executed by adding a value. 4. The photo vending machine according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of types of additional play are prepared. 5. The photo vending machine according to claim 4, further comprising means for selecting an additional play desired to be executed from a plurality of types of additional plays. 6. The photo vending machine according to claim 4, wherein a plurality of types of additional play can be executed. 7. The photo vending machine according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of types of additional play are sequentially executed by adding a value. 8. The photo vending machine according to claim 1, wherein the additional play is an addition of the number of times that the photographing means can photograph. 9. The photo vending machine according to claim 1, wherein the additional play is an extension of a photographable time by the photographing means. 10. A second image input means for allowing a user to input a second image before and after photographing of a subject by the photographing means,
The photo vending machine according to any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising an image synthesizing unit that synthesizes an image captured by the imaging unit and the second image, wherein the additional play is input and synthesis of the second image. 11. A second image input means for allowing a user to input a second image for a predetermined time before and after photographing a subject by a photographing means, and an image combining means for combining a photographed image with the second image by the photographing means. The photo vending machine according to any one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising means for extending the inputtable time of the second image. 12. The photo vending machine according to claim 1, further comprising data transmission means for transmitting image data to an external device, wherein said additional play is transmission of image data to an external device. 13. A data storage means for storing image data in a storage medium which can be taken out, wherein the additional play is
An image data is stored in the storage medium.
2. The vending machine according to claim 1. 14. A message input means for allowing a user to input a message, wherein the image output means outputs a message to a photo print together with the image.
The photo vending machine according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the additional play is an input of a message to be output on a photo print.