JP2002283647A - Image processing apparatus and image processing program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To print out digital image data in a desired form by a simple operation. SOLUTION: A computer system 1 prints out an album by a printer 3 based on image data taken from a digital camera 2 or an external recording medium 4, when an identification code given to a paper to be set to the printer 3 is inputted. Paper data stored correspondingly to the inputted identification code is read out, and information related to a paper size, an image size and an image arrangement is set automatically. When an image to be inserted to the album is designated from the image data taken from the digital camera 2 or the external recording medium 4, the designated image is arranged according to the paper data, whereby the album is formed. The album is printed out by the printer 3.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus for printing out an album sheet constituting an album by binding with a predetermined binding device or the like, and an image processing program as a control program therefor.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, with the spread of digital cameras and the like,
The opportunity for ordinary consumers to handle digital image data is increasing.

[0003] Prior to the popularization of digital cameras, most cameras were silver halide cameras. After taking a picture with a silver halide camera, a photograph was obtained using a DPE service or the like. On the other hand, an image captured by a digital camera can be immediately extracted as digital image data and edited, processed, and printed by a personal computer or the like.

[0004]

However, the work of editing, processing, or printing out digital image data involves:
Requires some computer knowledge. For this reason, for a user who is not familiar with operating a computer, outputting an image captured by a digital camera has not been a simple task.

For example, in order to print and organize images captured by a digital camera, it is necessary to print on a desired sheet in a suitable size and at a preferable position. However, the operation of adjusting the layout and size of the image according to the printing paper requires delicate technology and knowledge of software, and is difficult for a user unfamiliar with computer operations.

Further, digital image data is stored in a hard disk or CD-R (Compact Diode) built in a computer.
sk-Recordable) and other external recording media,
Can be stored in large quantities. Unlike printed silver halide photographs, etc., it is convenient because there is no need to prepare a storage space, but know-how of data management is required as the data volume increases, and eventually the operation of the computer And knowledge of software.

[0007] As described above, a user who is unfamiliar with the operation of a computer can edit and edit digital image data.
Various operations such as processing, printing, storage, and management have not been easily performed.

An object of the present invention is to enable digital image data to be printed out in a desired form by a simple operation. Another object of the present invention is to enable efficient storage and management of digital image data by a simple operation.

[0009]

The present invention has the following features in order to solve such a problem. In the following description, a configuration corresponding to the embodiment is shown by parentheses as an example. Reference numerals and the like are reference numerals and the like in the drawings described later.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, an image processing apparatus (for example, as shown in FIG. 1) in which an album sheet having images arranged on album paper is printed out by a printing apparatus (for example, printer 3 shown in FIG. 1). The computer system 1), wherein, for a plurality of the album sheets, attribute information of the album sheet and image arrangement information for arranging images on the album sheet correspond to a unique identification code assigned to each album sheet. Storage means (for example,
A paper data storage unit 132 shown in FIG. 2) and paper designating means for designating an identification code given to an album paper to be printed by the printing apparatus (for example, the CPU 11 performing the processing shown in step S7 in FIG. 3) And sheet information acquiring means for acquiring the attribute information and the image arrangement information of the album sheet stored in the storage means in association with the identification code designated by the sheet designating means (for example, as shown in step S9 in FIG. 3). CPU 11 for performing processing, and image storage means for storing images to be printed on the album sheet (for example, FIG.
To print the image stored in the image storage unit on the album paper based on the image data storage unit 131) and the attribute information and the image arrangement information of the album paper acquired by the paper information acquisition unit. Album data generating means (for example, CPU 11 for performing the processing shown in step S15 of FIG. 3) for generating the album data, and printing for causing the printing apparatus to print the album sheet according to the album data generated by the album data generating means. Control means (for example, step S17 in FIG. 3)
And a CPU 11) for performing the processing described in (1).

According to the first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image processing apparatus for printing out an album sheet having images arranged on an album sheet by a printing apparatus. The attribute information of the sheet and the image arrangement information for arranging the image on the album sheet are stored in association with the unique identification code assigned to each album sheet, and the sheet designating unit prints the object to be printed by the printing apparatus. The identification code assigned to the album paper is designated, and the attribute information and the image arrangement information of the album paper stored in the storage means in association with the identification code designated by the paper designation means are designated by the sheet information acquisition means. The image to be obtained and printed on the album sheet is stored in the image storage unit, and the attribute information and image arrangement of the album sheet obtained by the sheet information obtaining unit The album data generation unit generates album data for printing the image stored in the image storage unit on an album sheet based on the information and the album data generation unit. The album sheet is printed by the printing device under the control, so the album sheet can be printed simply by designating the identification code assigned to the album paper used by the printing device and storing the image data in the image storage means. Can be done. This makes it possible to print out image data such as an image captured by a digital camera in a beautiful layout by a simple operation. Thus, an album can be created without performing complicated and troublesome setting operations such as paper size, image size, image position, etc., so that even a user who is not familiar with computer operations can easily create an album. Processing of the captured image can be performed.

Here, the unique identification information assigned to the album sheet is a unique code assigned to each type of album sheet, and is composed of characters and numerals. The identification code of the album paper is unique to each type of paper, and different identification codes are given to papers having different sizes and orientations. Further, the attribute information of the album paper includes, for example, information such as a paper size and a margin, and may further include information regarding a position of a binding hole for binding as an album. The image arrangement information is information for arranging an image on an album sheet, and includes information on an image size and an image position. Further, the album data is data for printing an image or the like by the printing device in a state where the album paper is set in the printing device, and is data including image data of an image to be printed and arrangement information of the image. is there.

Further, the image processing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention further comprises an image order designating means for designating an order of arranging the images stored in the image storing means, as in the invention according to the second aspect, The album data generating means includes:
The album data may be generated based on the image order specified by the image order specifying unit, together with the attribute information and the image arrangement information of the album sheet obtained by the sheet information obtaining unit. good.

In this case, the order of arranging the images stored in the image storage means is designated by the image order designation means,
The album data generating means generates the album data based on the image order specified by the image order specifying means together with the attribute information and the image arrangement information of the album paper obtained by the paper information obtaining means. It is possible to create an album sheet on which images are printed in the same order. Thus, an album reflecting the user's preference can be created by a simple operation.

Further, in the image processing apparatus according to the first or second aspect, the image to be printed on the album sheet is selected from the images stored in the image storage means as in the third aspect of the invention. (For example, a CP that performs the processing shown in step S10 of FIG. 3)
U11), and the album data generating means may generate album data for printing only the image selected and designated by the image selecting means on the album sheet.

In this case, the image selection means selects and specifies an image to be printed on an album sheet from the images stored in the image storage means, and the album data generation means selects and specifies the image to be printed on the album paper. Since album data for printing only images on album paper is generated, it is possible to create an album sheet in which only images desired by the user are arranged by a simple operation.

In the image processing apparatus according to any one of the first to third aspects, as in the invention according to the fourth aspect, the album data generating means stores the image together with the image in the image storage means. If information indicating the date or date and time of the image is stored, it is necessary to generate album data for printing the date or date and time when the image was created on the album paper together with the image stored in the image storage means. The configuration may be a feature.

In this case, if the image storage means stores information indicating the date or date and time when the image was created together with the image, the album data generation means sets the image together with the image stored in the image storage means. Generates album data for printing the date or date and time when the album was created on the album paper, so you can not only create an album with simple operations, but also create an album sheet with the date or date and time the photo was taken along with the photo it can. This makes it possible to create a more convenient album by utilizing the advantages inherent in digital image data as well as the high operability.

Further, in the image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, as in the invention according to claim 5, a character string input means for inputting a character string to be printed on the album sheet together with an image. (For example, step S in FIG. 3
13, wherein the album data generating means generates album data for printing the character string input by the character string input means together with the image on the album paper. May be adopted.

In this case, a character string to be printed on the album paper together with the image is input by the character string input means.
The album data generating means generates album data for printing the character string input by the character string input means together with the image on an album sheet, so that an album sheet on which a comment is printed together with the image can be created. Thus, by adding functions while maintaining high operability, it is possible to create a more varied, highly entertaining and highly practical album.

[0021]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of an image processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
In the figure, 1 is a computer system, 2 is a digital camera, 3 is a printer, 4 is a card type recording medium 4
a, an external recording medium such as an optical disk type recording medium 4b and a magnetic disk type recording medium 4c.

As shown in FIG. 1, the image processing system according to the present embodiment is configured by connecting a digital camera 2 and a printer 3 to a computer system 1. When the digital camera 2 is connected to the computer system 1, digital data of an image captured by the digital camera 2 is transmitted from the digital camera 2 to the computer system 1.

Further, when the printer 3 is set with printing paper to which a predetermined identification code described later is attached and the printer 3 is connected to the computer system 1, a document including an image is controlled by the computer system 1. Is printed out by the printer 3.

The external recording medium 4 is a recording medium for storing digital data in a format readable by the computer system 1. For example, a card-type recording medium 4a having a built-in semiconductor memory device, for optically reading data, Writable optical disk type recording medium 4b, or
A magnetic disk-type recording medium 4c capable of magnetically reading and writing data is used.

The image processing system including the computer system 1, the digital camera 2, the printer 3, and the external recording medium 4
The album sheet is printed out by performing the processing based on the control of the computer system 1. Here, the album sheet is a sheet provided with a binding hole or a space for a binding hole or a binding tool, on which photographs and characters are arranged. By binding a plurality of album sheets to a binder or a file, it forms the same form as an album used for storing silver halide photographs.
That is, the album sheet is a sheet that forms an album of the same form as an album often used in silver halide photography by fixing a digital image on album paper by printing.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the computer system 1 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 2, the computer system 1 includes a CPU (Central Proc).
essing Unit) 11, RAM (Random Access Memory)
12, storage device 13, communication control device 14, input device 1
5, a display device 16, and an external recording medium connection unit 17, and these units are connected to each other by a bus 18. The storage device 13 includes an image data storage unit 131, a paper data storage unit 132, and an album data storage unit 133. FIG. 2 illustrates a printer 3 externally connected to the computer system 1 for the sake of convenience.

The CPU 11 reads out a system program stored in the storage device 13, develops the program in a work area provided in the RAM 12, and executes the read program, thereby controlling the driving of each unit of the computer system 1. For example, C
The PU 11 reads and executes the album processing program stored in the storage device 13, displays a start screen on a screen of the display device 16, and displays an instruction input from the input device 15 during the start screen display. Then, a program corresponding to the instruction is read out from the storage device 13 and executed.

That is, when a new album is instructed by the instruction input from the input device 15, the CPU 11 reads and executes the new album creating program stored in the storage device 13, and executes the program from the input device 15. Images are acquired according to the instruction input, and album data is created.
In addition, when printing of an album is instructed by an instruction input from the input device 15, the CPU 11
3 for reading and executing the album print processing program stored therein, and driving and controlling the externally connected printer 3;
The printer 3 prints an album sheet based on the album data. Further, when the display of the album is instructed by the instruction input from the input device 15, the CPU 11 reads and executes the album display program stored in the storage device 13 and displays the contents of the specified album on the display device 16. Display on the screen.

When the external recording medium 4 such as the card type recording medium 4a, the optical disk type recording medium 4b, and the magnetic disk type recording medium 4c shown in FIG. The image data stored in the external recording medium 4 is read out by the external recording medium connection unit 17 and stored in the image data storage unit 131 in the storage device 13.

The CPU 11 generates display information on the progress of the various processes and the results of the processes, outputs the display information to the display device 16, and causes the display device 16 to display various screens.

Further, the CPU 11 drives and controls the communication control device 14 in accordance with an instruction input from the input device 15 or a control program stored in the storage device 13 to execute a predetermined operation via a network such as the Internet (not shown). The server is accessed and a communication line is established with the server.

The RAM 12 forms a work area for temporarily storing system programs executed by the CPU 11, various application programs, and data related to these programs.

The storage device 13 has a storage medium (not shown) composed of a magnetic or optical storage medium or a semiconductor memory, and stores various programs and data in the storage medium (not shown). . The program, data, and the like stored in the storage medium (not shown) may be partially or wholly received from another device via a communication line or the like from the communication control device 14 and stored. Further, the storage medium (not shown) may be a storage medium included in another server constructed on a network such as the Internet. Further, the storage device 13 stores therein an image data storage unit 13 as a storage area for data relating to the album.
1, paper data storage unit 132, album data storage unit 1
33.

The image data storage section 131 stores image data input from the digital camera 2 or the external recording medium 4 (FIG. 1) set in the external recording medium connection section 17. The image data stored in the image data storage unit 131 is appropriately arranged in an album new creation process (FIG. 3) described later, and constitutes an album. In addition,
The data stored in the image data storage unit 131 includes
GIF (Graphics Interchange Format) or JPEG (J
oint Photographic Experts Group), TIFF (Tagge
d Image File Format), BMP (BitMaP), etc.
As long as the format can be processed by the PU 11, other data formats can be supported.

The paper data storage section 132 stores information relating to the layout and size of an image for paper set on the printer 3 and printed by the printer 3. In the image processing system according to the present embodiment, a sheet to which an identification code is assigned in advance is used. These papers are provided with different identification codes for different sizes and layouts, and the papers having the same identification code have the same position where an image is to be arranged, the paper size, and the like. Therefore, in the computer system 1, the printer 3
And stores the identification code and the information on the paper size and the image layout in association with each other. The identification code attached to the sheet is, for example, a number including only numbers, or a character string including numbers, characters, symbols, and the like.

The album data storage unit 133 stores data of an album created by a new album creating process described later. The album data stored in the album data storage unit 133 can be read out by the CPU 11 at any time and printed on album paper by the printer 3 to create an album sheet, or displayed on a screen for browsing. is there.

The communication control device 14 has a modem (MODE)
M: MOdulator / DEModulator), ADSL (Asymmetric)
Digital Subscriber Line (modem), splitter, cable modem, terminal adapter (TA: Terminal Ada)
pter), DSU (Digital Service Unit), etc., telephone line, ISDN (Integrated Services
It performs control for communication with an external device such as a server (not shown) via a communication line such as a Gigabit Network line, an ADSL line, a cable TV line, or a dedicated line made of an optical fiber.

The input device 15 includes a keyboard having numeric keys, character keys, various function keys, and the like, and a pointing device such as a mouse and a tablet. An operation signal corresponding to a key operated on the keyboard, or An operation signal including position information associated with the operation of the pointing device is output to the CPU 11.

The display device 16 is a CRT (Cathode Ray Tu).
be) or a display screen such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), and displays various screens related to the application program being executed by the CPU 11 based on the display information input from the CPU 11.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the operation of the computer system 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention. First, in response to an instruction input from the input device 15, the CPU 11 reads and executes an application program related to album processing from the storage device 13, generates display information for displaying a start screen, and generates display information for displaying the start screen.
And a start screen is displayed on the screen of the display device 16 (step S1).

Here, the CPU 11 shifts to a standby state in response to an instruction input from the input device 15 on the start screen (step S2). If there is an instruction input (step S2; Yes), the input content is determined. I do. That is, the CPU 11 determines whether or not the instruction input from the input device 15 is for instructing the creation of a new album (step S3). It is determined whether or not is an instruction to print an album (step S4).

When the instruction input from the input device 15 is an instruction to print an album (step S4; Y)
es) The CPU 11 reads and executes an application program for performing album printing from the storage device 13 and stores the album data specified by the instruction input from the input device 15 in the album data storage unit 133 of the storage device 13. And causes the printer 3 to execute the printing process of the album (step S
5). As a result, an album sheet desired by the user is created, and the album is completed by binding this album sheet.

When the instruction input from the input device 15 is not an instruction to print an album (step S
4; No), the CPU 11 determines that the content of the instruction input is album display processing. Then, the CPU 11
The application program for displaying the album is read from the storage device 13 and executed, and the data of the album specified by the instruction input from the input device 15 is read from the album data storage unit 133, and the contents of the album are displayed on the display device. 16 is displayed on the screen 16 (step S6).

On the other hand, if the instruction input from the input device 15 is to instruct the creation of a new album (step S3; Yes), the CPU 11 determines the identification code of the album sheet specified by the input from the input device 15. Is obtained (step S7). Next, when the number of images per page of the album sheet is designated by an input from the input device 15, the CPU 11 acquires this (step S).
8).

Then, the CPU 11 reads out the data corresponding to the identification code of the album sheet acquired in step S7 from the sheet data storage section 132, and reads the data in step S7.
The layout of the images is determined based on the number of images per page acquired in step 8, a layout for printing on album paper is created, and the created layout is displayed (step S9). In step S9, step S
The layout screen when the number of images specified in step S <b> 8 is arranged on the album sheet specified in 7 is displayed on the display device 16.

When an image to be arranged on the album paper is designated by an input from the input device 15 (step S10), the CPU 11 acquires the image data of the designated image from the image data storage unit 131, Step S
The image is arranged on the layout created in step 9 (step S11).

Thereafter, the layout of the album in which the images are arranged in step S11 is adjusted according to the instruction input from the input device 15 (step S1).
2) Further, a comment and a date attached to the image and printed on the album are set and input (step S13). Further, a process of adding an illustration to the layout of the album in which the images are arranged by input from the input device 15 is performed (step S14).

Then, the CPU 11 determines in steps S7-1 to S7-1.
Album data is created for the album created by each process of step 4 (step S15).

Here, an example of the structure of the album data created in step S15 will be described. CPU11
Is the album data storage unit 1 as the album data.
In 33, one data folder is created for one album. In this data folder, data of the image material used for the album and data of the created album are stored. As image material data, for example,
DCF (Design rule for Camera File system) used as a data format for digital cameras
Use a file conforming to. The DCF file includes information such as a JPEG format image file and a THM format thumbnail image file created based on the image file. On the other hand, as data of the created album, for example, DP used in digital photo printing is used.
An OF (Digital Print Order Format) file is used. The DPOF file includes an automatic print file including information on a printing format, a character string description file including information on a character string attached to an image, and a data communication technology for transmitting and receiving album data via the Internet or the like. Information such as an automatic transmission file including information and an automatic reproduction file including information for reproducing an album with a projector or the like are included. Further, the data folder may further include a file including information on images and characters and their layout.

After the album data has been created in step S15, the CPU 11 requests the user to input an instruction as to whether or not to execute printing (step S16). If so (step S16; Yes), the process moves to step S17, prints the album by the same processing as step S5, and moves to step S18. If an instruction not to perform printing is input (step S1).
6; No), the process directly proceeds to step S18.

In step S18, the album data created in step S15 is stored in the album data storage unit 1.
33, and the process ends.

Next, the layout adjustment processing shown in step S12 of FIG. 3 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In the layout adjustment processing, the CPU 11
When an image deletion is instructed by an input from the input device 15 (step S21; Yes), the specified image is deleted from the album (step S22), and a blank generated due to the image deletion is filled. For this purpose, the image is rearranged (step S23).

When an insertion of a blank is instructed by an input from the input device 15 (step S24; Yes)
s), the CPU 11 inserts a blank area where no image is to be placed at a designated position among the positions where the image is to be placed (step S25), and further performs an image rearrangement process accompanying the blank insertion (step S25). Step S26).

Further, when the image rearrangement is instructed by the input from the input device 15 (step S27;
Yes), the CPU 11 performs a process of rearranging the plurality of designated images with each other (step S28).

When all layout adjustments are completed (step S29; Yes), the CPU 11 proceeds to step S13 (FIG. 3).

Next, the comment / date setting process shown in step S13 of FIG. 3 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. First, an image to which a comment and a date are to be attached is specified by an input from the input device 15 (step S31).

Here, when a comment setting is instructed by an input from the input device 15 (step S32; Ye)
s), the CPU 11 accepts a comment input from the input device 15 (step S33), and attaches the input comment to the specified image (step S3).
4). In the process of step S34, the font size, character spacing, line spacing, line feed, and the like for displaying the input comment are automatically adjusted mainly based on the number of input characters.

When the setting of the date display is instructed by the input from the input device 15 (step S35; Yes)
s), the CPU 11 sets whether or not to display the shooting date and time for the specified image (photograph) (step S).
36).

When the settings relating to the date and comment are completed (step S37; Yes), the CPU 11
Shifts to step S14 (FIG. 3).

The state of the processing shown in FIGS. 3 to 5 will be described with reference to a screen displayed by the display device 16 in accordance with each processing. FIGS. 6 to 13 correspond to FIGS.
FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen displayed by a display device 16 in the processing in FIG. 5.

FIG. 6 shows an example of the start screen 51 displayed in step S1 of FIG. In the upper left portion of the start screen 51, an operation guide display unit 501 is arranged. In the operation guide display unit 501, buttons such as a new album creation button 502, an album display button 503, and an album print button 504 are arranged, and one of the buttons is operated by operating a pointing device such as a mouse of the input device 15. By doing so, a process in the computer system 1 can be selected and instructed. For example, the operation of step S7 and subsequent steps in FIG. 3 can be instructed by operating the new album creation button 502, and the operation of the album display button 503 in FIG.
3 can be instructed, and the operation of step S5 in FIG. 3 can be instructed by operating the album print button 504.

On the start screen 51, a paper selection designation section 505 is arranged below the operation guide display section 501. The paper selection designation unit 505 is an operation unit for designating the mount of the album to be created based on the identification code given to the album paper. Also, a paper selection designation section 5
A layout display unit 506 for displaying the layout of the album based on the paper designated by the paper selection designation unit 505 is arranged below the sheet selection designation unit 505. Further, when an album including a plurality of pages is displayed on the layout display unit 506, a page move button 507 for instructing page turning or the like is arranged at the bottom.

On the other hand, in the upper right portion of the start screen 51, an image selection designation section 508 and an image display section 509 are arranged as operation sections for taking in an image into an album. The image selection designation unit 508 is an operation unit for designating a folder or a drive in which images to be captured in the album are stored, and the image display unit 509 is stored in the folder or drive designated by the image selection designation unit 508. The displayed images are displayed in a list.

An image capture button 510 for capturing an image displayed on the image display unit 509 into an album is arranged between the image display unit 509 and the layout display unit 506. By operating the image capture button 510,
It is possible to instruct a process of loading an image displayed on the image display unit 509 into an album.

Below the image display unit 509, an image deletion button 512 and a blank insertion button 513 are arranged as operation units for operating images captured in the album. The image deletion button 512 is a button for instructing the processing shown in steps S21 to S23 in FIG. 4, and the blank insertion button 513 is a button for instructing the processing in step S2 in FIG.
Buttons for instructing the processing shown in 4-S26.
Then, the image deletion button 512 and the blank insertion button 51
A captured image display unit 511 that displays a list of information on images captured in the album by operating the image capture button 510 is arranged below the image capture button 510.

On the start screen 51 shown in FIG. 6, a new album creation button 5 on the operation guide display unit 501 is provided as a pre-stage for executing various album-related processes.
02, an album display button 503, and an album print button 504 are operated. Then, when a new album creation button 502 is operated to start a process for creating a new album, the screen is switched to the sheet selection screen 52.

FIG. 7 shows a sheet selection screen 5 displayed when a new album is instructed in step S3 of FIG.
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the second example. The paper selection screen 52 has substantially the same configuration as the start screen 51 (FIG. 6), but includes an operation guide unit 521 instead of the operation guide display unit 501.

The operation guide section 521 displays a series of operations for creating a new album,
It also functions as an indicator of the operation stage currently being executed. Specifically, the operation guide unit 521 includes “select a mount”, “import photos”, “organize captured photos”, and “comment of comments” corresponding to each stage of the process of creating an album. Indicators of "input", "insert illustration", "print", and "data save" are displayed. Note that the above steps correspond to steps S7 to S8 and step S1 in FIG.
0, step S12, step S13, step S1
4, and corresponds to each processing of step S17 and step S18.

The indicator displayed on the operation guide section 521 also functions as a button. When the indicator indicating each step is operated, the operation can shift to the operation indicated by the indicator. For example, if the “input comment” indicator is operated after printing the album, the process can shift to comment input processing.

The paper selection screen 52 shown in FIG. 7 is a screen displayed at the stage of “selecting a mount” in the operation guide section 521, and corresponds to steps S7 to S8 in FIG. When the paper selection screen 52 is displayed, the paper selection designation unit 505 is operated to display a list of the album papers that can be created by the computer system 1 and the number of images to be arranged on one page in each paper. Have been. Here, as an example of the display in the paper selection designation unit 505, an example in which the display is performed in a pull-down format is shown.

The paper selection designation section 505 displays a brief description of the paper used for the album and an identification code given to the paper. Therefore, the user can create an album suitable for the sheet by selecting the identification code of the sheet he wants to use. Also, a paper selection designation section 5
In 05, the number of images per page can be selected together with the paper identification code. Therefore, the user can specify a desired number of sheets and the number of images by one operation in the sheet selection specifying unit 505.

When the paper selection in the paper selection designation section 505 is completed, the screen displayed on the display device 16 is switched to the layout display screen 53.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the layout display screen 53 displayed after the number of sheets and the number of images are specified in steps S7 to S8 in FIG. Layout display screen 5
Reference numeral 3 denotes an arrangement in which the same operation unit and display unit as the paper selection screen 52 (FIG. 7) are arranged.

When the layout display screen 53 is displayed, the paper is already selected on the paper selection screen 52, and
The number of images arranged on one page of the album is specified. For this reason, on the layout display screen 53, the layout display section 506 displays a description and identification code of the selected paper and a paper identification code display 531 indicating the number of images, and further displays a paper layout display below. 5
32 is displayed.

The paper layout display 532 includes the overall image of the paper indicated by the paper identification code display 531, the position where the image is arranged on the paper, the position where the shooting date and comment attached to each image are arranged, In addition, the positions and the like of the binding holes formed in the paper for printing as one album after the printout are displayed in substantially the same state as the actual one.

Note that an album created by the computer system 1 can naturally include a plurality of pages. Therefore, the layout display unit 506 can switch and display all pages of the album. Specifically, the display of the layout display unit 506 is switched in accordance with the operation of the page move button 507 for instructing page turning.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the layout display screen 54 as an example of a case where the page move button 507 is operated on the layout display screen 53 of FIG. 8 and a plurality of pages are displayed on the layout display section 506. As shown in FIG. 9, when the page move button 507 is operated, not only the first page of the album but also two pages of the spread page are displayed.
The layout display unit 50 as the paper layout display 541
6 can also be displayed.

Then, the layout display screen 5 shown in FIG.
3, or when the image selection designation unit 508 is operated while the layout display screen 54 shown in FIG. 9 is displayed,
The screen displayed on the display device 16 is switched to the image capture screen 55.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the image capture screen 55 displayed when an image to be placed on the album is selected in step S10 of FIG. The image capture screen 55
The same operation unit and display unit as the paper selection screen 52 (FIG. 7) are arranged.

In the layout display screen 53 (FIG. 8) or the layout display screen 54 (FIG. 9), when the image selection designating section 508 is operated and a folder or a drive in which images to be loaded on the album are stored is designated, the designation is made. All the images included in the folder or drive are displayed on the image display unit 50.
9 is displayed as a list. Here, when the image capture button 510 is operated, the image displayed on the image display unit 509 is displayed.
All are taken into the album and arranged in order from the first page of the album.

Then, on the layout display section 506, an image layout display 551 in a state where the images are arranged is displayed. Note that the arrangement order when a plurality of images displayed on the image display unit 509 are taken into an album and arranged on the paper of the album is based on the order of the Japanese syllabary of the file name given to each image or each photograph. Can be determined by various methods such as the order of shooting date and time, and can be specified by the user.

The images captured in the album by operating the image capture button 510 are displayed in the captured image display section 5.
11 is displayed as a list. The captured image display unit 511 includes:
In addition to the image itself, information such as the page on which each image is arranged, the position in the page, the file name of the image, and the date and time when the image is a photograph is displayed.

Here, when the image deletion button 512 and the blank insertion button 513 are operated, the operation guide section 521
The process of "organization of captured photos" indicated by the indicator can be performed. Specifically, the captured image display unit 51
1 or a specific image among the images displayed on the paper identification code display 531, the image deletion button 5
When the user operates 12, the specified image is deleted from the album. Further, when the blank insertion button 513 is operated in a state where a specific image is designated in the captured image display unit 511, a blank is inserted at the designated position and subsequent blanks including the designated image are included. The image is moved to the back position.

Further, a list of images inserted in the album is displayed on the captured image display section 511, and the images on the captured image display section 511 are dragged by the pointing device of the input device 15. By performing the & drop operation, the positions of the images can be exchanged and rearranged.

Therefore, when a plurality of images are collectively loaded into the album by operating the image capture button 510, the image deletion button 512 and the blank insertion button 51
3, and by operating the captured image display unit 511, the layout can be adjusted by deleting, rearranging, or inserting a blank image.

As described above, after the images are loaded into the album and the layout is adjusted, the screen displayed on the display device 16 is switched to the comment input screen 56 in order to set the comment and the date.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the comment input screen 56 displayed when a comment and a date are set for each image of the album in step S13 of FIG. The comment input screen 56 is a sheet selection screen 52
The same operation unit and display unit as those shown in FIG. 7 are arranged.

The comment input screen 56 is the image capture screen 5
5 is displayed when the setting of a comment and a date is instructed after the image is captured in FIG. 10 (FIG. 10). In addition,
This instruction is performed, for example, by the operation of “input comment” of the operation guide unit 521.

On the comment input screen 56, in addition to the display of the image capture screen 55 (FIG. 10), a comment input section 561 is displayed in a pop-up display near the layout display section 506.

A comment input section 561 is a display area for inputting and editing a comment and setting a date. The comment display section 562 and the comment input box 56
3 are arranged.

[0092] The date display designating section 562 is provided with buttons for selectively designating whether or not to display and print the photographing date and time of the photo in the album. A comment input box 563 is an input area for inputting and editing a comment to be attached to an image and displayed / printed in an album. Note that the comment input in the comment input box 563 has its font size, character spacing, number of lines and line spacing set appropriately based on the number of characters, and is automatically displayed and printed in a suitable layout. Therefore, by simply inputting and editing text as a comment, the user can attach a nicely adjusted comment to an image without performing complicated settings.

Then, as shown in the comment input screen 56, after inputting and editing comments and setting the date for each image of the album, a screen displayed on the display device 16 for inserting an illustration. Is switched to the illustration insertion screen 57.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of an illustration insertion screen 57 displayed when an illustration is inserted into an album in step S14 of FIG. Illustration insertion screen 5
Reference numeral 7 denotes an arrangement in which the same operation unit and display unit as the paper selection screen 52 (FIG. 7) are arranged.

The illustration insertion screen 57 is displayed when an instruction to insert an illustration is given after a comment is input on the comment input screen 56 (FIG. 11). This instruction is performed, for example, by the operation of “insert illustration” of the operation guide unit 521.

On the illustration insertion screen 57, in addition to the display of the image capture screen 55 (FIG. 10), an illustration selection designation section 571 is displayed in a pop-up at the bottom of the screen. The illustration selection designation section 571 displays a list of illustrations that can be inserted into the album. This illustration selection designation section 571
Is stored in the storage device 13 of the computer system 1 in advance. Then, when the illustration in the illustration selection designation unit 571 is dragged and dropped to the image layout display 551 by operating the pointing device of the input device 15, the illustration is displayed as the illustration 572 on the image layout display 551.

The position and size of the illustration 572 displayed on the image layout display 551 can be changed by operating a pointing device of the input device 15.
The illustration 572 displayed on the image layout display 551 is displayed and printed on the album while being displayed on the image layout display 551.

Then, as shown in the illustration insertion screen 57, after the illustration is inserted into the album, album data is created, and processing such as printing the album is performed.
When saving the album data, the display device 1
The screen displayed in 6 is switched to the data storage screen 58.

FIG. 13 is a view showing an example of the data storage screen 58 displayed when the album data is stored in step S18 of FIG. The data storage screen 58 has substantially the same operation unit and display unit as the paper selection screen 52 (FIG. 7), but the captured image display unit 51
1. In place of the image deletion button 512 and the blank insertion button 513, a storage data input unit 581 is arranged.

The data saving screen 58 is displayed after the illustration is inserted on the illustration insertion screen 57 (FIG. 12).
Furthermore, processing such as creation and printing of album data is performed,
Displayed when saving data is instructed. Note that this instruction may be transmitted, for example, by using the “save data”
The operation is performed by the following operation.

The storage data input section 581 includes an album name input section 582, a storage destination selection specifying section 583, and a storage destination display section 584. The album name input unit 582
This is an input area for inputting a name to be assigned to an album when saving data of the created album. The storage destination selection specifying unit 583 is an operation unit for specifying a folder, a drive, and the like in which data of the created album is to be stored. In addition, the contents of the drive and folder specified by the storage destination selection specifying unit 583 are displayed as a list on the storage destination display unit 584 as icons. When the data is saved on the data saving screen 58, a series of processes relating to the creation of the album shown in FIG. 3 ends.

Each of the screens shown in FIGS. 6 to 13 may be displayed so as to occupy the entire screen of the display device 16, or when a window system is adopted as the operating system of the computer system 1, It may be displayed on the screen as one window.

Further, deletion of an image, insertion of a blank space, rearrangement of images, input / edit of a comment on a comment input screen 56 (FIG. 11), setting of a date, or illustration on the image input screen 55 (FIG. 10). Insert screen 57 (FIG. 1)
It is possible to create an album without performing any of the processes of inserting an illustration in 2). Therefore, album data may be created, printed, and saved without performing any of the processes in steps S12 to S14 in FIG. 3 corresponding to the above processes.

As described above, according to the image processing system according to the embodiment of the present invention, the image data is taken into the computer system 1 from the digital camera 2 or the external recording medium 4,
An album can be created by a simple operation based on the image data stored in the image data storage unit 131 of the computer system 1.

That is, if the user selects and specifies the identification code given to the paper to be used as the album mount in the paper selection specifying section 505 of the paper selection screen 52 (FIG. 7), the size of the paper and the actual album Information such as the position of the binding hole for binding and the size of the image to be placed on the paper are automatically set, and the user can create an album simply by selecting a photo to be placed on the album.

Accordingly, the user obtains a desired sheet from the album sheets to which the identification code has been attached and sets it on the printer 3. Thereafter, the user simply inputs the identification code of the sheet and selects a photograph. Album sheets with beautifully laid out photos can be printed. In addition, if a binding hole is formed in advance on a sheet, a printed album sheet can be bound as it is to create one album.

Thus, taking advantage of the advantage of a digital image that a photograph can be printed without requesting a developer such as a DPE shop for development or printing, setting of a paper size, a printing range, a margin position, and the like for the printer 3. Also, an album can be created by simple operations without performing complicated operations such as image size adjustment and position adjustment. And the created album will be as complete as if the silver halide photos were bound to a commercial album,
On the other hand, it is also possible to automatically acquire information on the shooting date and attach it to a photograph, so that the advantages of the digital camera can be fully enjoyed.

After the sheet identification code is specified on the sheet selection screen 52 (FIG. 7), the layout display screen 53 is displayed.
As shown in FIG. 8, a paper layout display 532 is displayed on the screen.
Is displayed, and after the photograph is selected, the image capture screen 55 is displayed.
The layout of the album to be printed is displayed as in the image layout display 551 in FIG. Also, the paper layout display 532 and the image layout display 5
Regarding the display of 51, a page feed operation can be performed by operating the page move button 507. Therefore, the user can create an album while specifically checking the image at the time of completion.

Further, on the image capture screen 55, images can be deleted or blanks can be inserted by simple button operations, and images can be rearranged by intuitive operations. Then, the comment input screen 56 (FIG. 11)
Then, by a simple operation in the comment input unit 561,
You can set and enter comments and dates attached to photos. Also, on the illustration insertion screen 57 (FIG. 12), it is possible to insert an illustration by a simple operation in the illustration selection designation section 571.

Therefore, according to the computer system 1, it is possible to create an album with various variations while maintaining high operability.

It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and it goes without saying that various changes can be made within the scope of the technical idea described in the claims. For example, the data relating to the paper stored in the paper data storage unit 132 of the computer system 1 (FIG. 2) and the data relating to the illustration displayed in the illustration selection designation unit 571 of FIG. It is also possible to acquire from the device 14 via the Internet or the like and add it.

[0112]

As described above, according to the image processing apparatus of the first aspect and the image processing program of the sixth aspect, the identification code given to the album sheet used in the printing apparatus is used. The album sheet can be printed only by specifying and storing the image data in the image storage unit. This makes it possible to print out image data such as an image captured by a digital camera in a beautiful layout by a simple operation. As a result, an album can be created without performing complicated and troublesome setting operations such as paper size, image size, image position, and the like. Processing of the captured image can be performed.

According to the image processing apparatus of the present invention, it is possible to create an album sheet on which images are printed in the order desired by the user. Thus, an album reflecting the user's preference can be created by a simple operation.

According to the image processing apparatus of the present invention, it is possible to create an album sheet in which only images desired by the user are arranged by a simple operation.

According to the image processing apparatus of the present invention, not only can an album be created by a simple operation, but also an album sheet on which the date or date and time when a photograph was taken can be created along with the photograph. This makes it possible to create a more convenient album by utilizing the advantages inherent in digital image data as well as the high operability.

According to the image processing apparatus of the present invention, it is possible to create an album sheet on which a comment is printed together with an image. Thus, by adding functions while maintaining high operability, it is possible to create a more varied, highly entertaining and highly practical album.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of an image processing system as an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the computer system 1 of FIG.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of the image processing system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing details of a layout adjustment process shown in step S12 of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing details of a comment / date setting process shown in step S13 of FIG. 3;

6 is a diagram showing an example of a start screen 51 displayed in the processing shown in FIG.

7 is a diagram showing an example of a paper selection screen 52 displayed in the processing shown in FIG.

8 is a diagram showing an example of a layout display screen 53 displayed in the processing shown in FIG.

9 is a diagram showing an example of a layout display screen 54 displayed in the processing shown in FIG.

10 is a diagram showing an example of an image capture screen 55 displayed in the processing shown in FIG.

11 is a diagram showing an example of a comment input screen 56 displayed in the processing shown in FIG.

12 is a diagram showing an example of an illustration insertion screen 57 displayed in the processing shown in FIG.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a data storage screen 58 displayed in the processing shown in FIG.

[Explanation of symbols]

 Reference Signs List 1 computer system 11 CPU 12 RAM 13 storage device 14 communication control device 15 input device 16 display device 17 external recording medium connection part 18 bus 2 digital camera 3 printer 4 external recording medium 51 start screen 52 paper selection screen 53, 54 layout display screen 55 Image import screen 56 Comment input screen 57 Illustration insertion screen 58 Data save screen

Continuation of the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification symbol FI Theme coat II (Reference) H04N 5/76 H04N 5/76 E 5C053 5/907 5/907 B 5C076 5/91 5/91 H (72) Inventor Shuhei Fujishita 3-1-1, Shiba-Koen, Minato-ku, Tokyo Inside the Japan Management Association Management Center (72) Inventor Masahiro Yokoyama 3-1-38, Shiba-koen, Minato-ku, Tokyo Management Center Japan Management Association F term (for reference) 2C087 AB01 AB05 BA03 BB17 BB20 BD52 CA02 CA05 CB20 2C187 AE01 CD17 5B021 AA30 DD00 KK03 LE00 5B050 BA06 BA10 BA15 BA20 EA12 FA03 5C052 AA01 AA17 EE08 FA02 FA03 FB06 FA03 GA02 GA02 GB36 JA16 KA03 KA24 LA01 LA03 LA11 LA14 5C076 AA01 AA11 AA16 AA17 AA37 BA02 BA03 BA04 CA10

Claims (6)

[Claims] 1. An image processing apparatus for printing out an album sheet having images arranged on an album sheet by a printing apparatus, comprising: for a plurality of album sheets, attribute information of the album sheet; Storage means for storing image arrangement information to be arranged in association with a unique identification code assigned to each album sheet; and designating an identification code assigned to an album sheet to be printed by the printing apparatus. Paper information obtaining means for obtaining attribute information and image arrangement information of album paper stored in the storage means in association with the identification code specified by the paper specifying means; An image storage unit that stores an image to be printed; and an attribute information and an image arrangement information of an album sheet acquired by the sheet information acquisition unit. An album data generating unit for generating album data for printing the image stored in the image storage unit on the album sheet; and the albuming unit according to the album data generated by the album data generating unit. An image processing apparatus, comprising: printing control means for printing a sheet. 2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: an image order designation unit for designating an order in which the images stored in the image storage unit are arranged; wherein the album data generation unit is configured to output the album sheet attribute information acquired by the sheet information acquisition unit. 2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the album data is generated based on an order specified by the image order specifying means together with the image arrangement information. 3. An image selecting unit for selecting and specifying an image to be printed on the album sheet from among the images stored in the image storing unit, wherein the album data generating unit includes 3. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein album data for printing only the selected and designated image on the album sheet is generated. 4. When the album data generation means stores information indicating the date or date and time when the image was created together with the image in the image storage means, the album data generation means includes the image data stored in the image storage means. 4. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein album data for printing the date or date and time when the image was created on the album paper is generated. 5. A character string input unit for inputting a character string to be printed on the album sheet together with an image, wherein the album data generating unit converts the character string input by the character string input unit together with the image into the character string. 5. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein album data to be printed on album paper is generated. 6. A computer which causes a printing apparatus to print out an album sheet having images arranged on the album sheet by using a printing apparatus, wherein the attribute information of the album sheet and the image for arranging the image on the album sheet are provided for the plurality of album sheets. Storage means for storing the arrangement information in association with a unique identification code assigned to each album sheet; sheet designating means for designating an identification code assigned to an album sheet to be printed by the printing apparatus; Paper information obtaining means for obtaining attribute information and image arrangement information of album paper stored in the storage means in association with the identification code specified by the paper specifying means; an image storing an image to be printed on the album sheet Storage means, based on the attribute information and the image arrangement information of the album sheet acquired by the sheet information acquiring means, Album data generating means for generating album data for printing an image stored in the storage means on the album sheet; print control for printing the album sheet by the printing apparatus according to the album data generated by the album data generating means Means, an image processing program for functioning as