JP2003145880A - Apparatus and method for printing image, printing medium unit and program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To enable playful imaging and to easily provide images rich in the individuality. SOLUTION: The apparatus for printing images extracts a user image (step S33) among images (one monitor image) within an imaging range imaged by an incorporated CCD camera, synthesizes the extracted user image with a preliminarily set predetermined base image, and generates a first synthetic image (step S34). An outline of the extracted image is detected (step S35). A preliminarily set predetermined decoration image is arranged to a predetermined position on the detected outline of the user image (step S37). The arranged decoration image and the first synthetic image are synthesized to generate a second synthetic image (step S38) and printed.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image printing apparatus and method, and a program, and particularly to an image printing capable of providing a playful image and easily providing a unique image. Apparatus and method,
And about the program.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, an image printing apparatus (for example, Print Club (trademark)) which captures an image of a user, synthesizes the captured image with a predetermined frame, and prints this on sticker paper or the like is known. Has been.

In such an image printing apparatus, a user selects a desired frame from a plurality of frames (background and foreground) in advance by a menu or the like at the time of shooting, and a composite image in which the selected frame and the user themselves are combined. While confirming, the shooting position is adjusted, a pose is taken, and shooting is instructed (for example, a shooting start button or the like is pressed).

[0004]

However, in the conventional image printing apparatus, when it is necessary to provide an image with more individuality (for example, when a large number of users make a request to that effect, or when there is a conflict). There is a problem that it is necessary to increase the number of mounted frames in order to differentiate from the model).

In other words, the manufacturer has problems such as difficulty in manufacturing a large number of frames and an increase in cost, and the user has a problem in selecting a desired frame from a large number of frames. There were problems such as complexity and difficulty.

Further, the image printing apparatus typified by the print club is required to be rich in playability due to its nature, but the conventional image printing apparatus is simply a background (foreground).
There is a problem in that the user is only allowed to confirm the composite image that has been combined with the user and then the image is captured, which is not interesting when the image is captured.

The present invention has been made in view of such a situation, and it is an object of the present invention to provide a playful shooting and easily provide an image with rich individuality.

[0008]

An image printing apparatus of the present invention includes a photographing means for photographing a user, an extracting means for extracting an image of the user from images within a photographing range photographed by the photographing means, and an extracting means. Detection means for detecting the contour of the user image extracted by the means, and arranging means for arranging a predetermined decoration image set in advance at a predetermined position on the contour of the user image detected by the detection means. And a printing unit that prints a composite image of the decoration image arranged by the arrangement unit and the image within the photographing range photographed by the photographing unit.

In the image printing apparatus of the present invention, the image of the user is extracted from the captured images within the photographing range, the contour of the extracted image of the user is detected, and the contour of the detected image of the user is detected. A predetermined decoration image that has been set in advance is arranged at a predetermined position above, and a composite image of the arranged decoration image and the image within the captured shooting range is printed.

Therefore, it is possible to provide an image with a great individuality in which a decorative image such as a small bird is attached to the contour of the image of the user (for example, the hand or shoulder).

The photographing means is, for example, a CCD (Charge Couple).
d Device) With a camera, the extraction means, the detection means, and the arrangement means are, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit).
Thus, the printing unit is configured by, for example, a printer.

In the image printing apparatus of the present invention, the user's image extracted by the extraction means is combined with a preset predetermined background image to generate a first combined image. Means and a second generating means for generating a second combined image by combining the first combined image generated by the first generating means and a preset decoration image, The arrangement unit arranges the decoration image at a predetermined position on the contour of the image of the user detected by the detection unit in the first combined image generated by the first generation unit, and the second generation unit. Generates a second combined image by combining the first combined image and the decoration image arranged by the arrangement unit, and the printing unit generates the second combined image generated by the second generating unit. Can be printed.

Therefore, a user's image is pasted on various background images, and a decorative image of, for example, a small bird is pasted on the contour (eg, hands, shoulders, etc.) of the user's image, which is highly individual. Images can be provided.

The first generating means and the second generating means are composed of, for example, a CPU.

In the image printing apparatus of the present invention, a calculation means for calculating coordinates corresponding to a predetermined position on the contour of the image of the user is further provided, and the arrangement means is based on the coordinates calculated by the calculation means. It is possible to arrange a predetermined decoration image.

Therefore, the decoration image can be reliably and easily arranged at a predetermined position of the contour of the image of the user.

The calculation means is composed of, for example, a CPU.

In the image printing apparatus of the present invention, display means for displaying an image, first display control means for displaying a second composite image on the display means, and when it is determined that a predetermined condition is satisfied, Immediately before or after the determination, a determination unit that determines the second composite image displayed on the display unit by the first display control unit as a print image to be printed by the printing unit is further provided, and the determination unit prints the print image. Until is confirmed, the photographing means continuously photographs the user,
The extraction means extracts the image of the user at a predetermined sampling time, and the first display control means causes the display of the display means to display the second image each time a new image of the user is extracted by the extraction means. It is possible to update the second composite image newly generated by the generation means.

Therefore, the decoration image follows the movement of the user in real time (at a predetermined sampling time),
Since the state is displayed, the user can determine the image to be printed when the desired composition is obtained.

The display means is, for example, a CRT (Cathode-Ray T
The first display control unit and the finalizing unit are each configured by a display device such as a CPU, and are configured by, for example, a CPU.

In the image printing apparatus of the present invention, a confirmation signal input means for inputting a signal to confirm the print image,
When a signal is input by the confirmation signal input means, the remaining time up to a preset predetermined time is calculated based on the time measuring means for starting the time measurement and the time measured by the time measuring means, and the calculated time is calculated. Second display control means for displaying the remaining time up to a predetermined time on the display means is further provided, and the confirming means determines that the predetermined condition is satisfied when the predetermined time is measured by the time measuring means. can do.

Therefore, the user, after deciding the pose,
For example, if a switch or button is operated (a signal for confirming the image to be printed is input) and a final pose is taken within a predetermined time, the image of the user photographed in that final pose is printed. . As a result, the user does not have to use a remote controller device or the like to press the shutter,
An image of a desired pose can be obtained, and the manufacturer can eliminate the need for a remote controller device or the like for pressing the shutter, so that the cost associated therewith can be reduced.

The first input means is composed of, for example, an input section composed of switches and buttons, the time measuring means is composed of, for example, a timer, and the second display control means is composed of, for example, a CPU.

In the image printing apparatus of the present invention, a storage means for storing a plurality of decoration images and a predetermined decoration image arranged by the arrangement means are set from the plurality of decoration images stored in the storage means. Further provided is setting means for setting a decoration style of the set predetermined decoration image, and processing means for processing the predetermined decoration image set by the setting means based on the decoration style set by the setting means. The arrangement means may arrange the predetermined decoration image processed by the processing means.

The setting means may set at least one decoration style among a plurality of decoration styles such as the number of arranged decoration images, size, rotation angle, and transparency.

Therefore, the user can select (set) a desired design while looking at the screen, and can acquire an image with rich personality that the user can satisfy himself.

The storage means is constituted by, for example, an external storage unit such as a hard disk, or a built-in memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory), and the setting means and the processing means are constituted by, for example, a CPU.

The setting means sets the rotation angle of the decoration image as
It is possible to set a multiple of 90 degrees.

Therefore, the amount of calculation in the rotation processing of the decoration image can be reduced, and the cost of the calculation processing unit of the image printing apparatus can be reduced.

In the image printing apparatus of the present invention, the setting means sets the moving direction and the moving distance of the predetermined position on the contour of the image of the user as the decoration style, and the calculating means:
Each time a new user image is extracted by the extraction means,
Updating a predetermined position on the contour of the image of the user from a predetermined position set last time to a position moved along the contour of the user by a movement distance in the movement direction set by the setting means. You can

Therefore, at the time of shooting, the decoration image of a small bird or the like is displayed as if moving along the contour of the user (for example, the shoulder or the hand), so that it is possible to shoot with playability. .

In the image printing apparatus of the present invention, the storage means further stores a plurality of decoration styles, and the plurality of decoration images and the plurality of decoration styles stored in the storage means are displayed on the display means as samples. The sample display control means to be displayed and the signals corresponding to the decoration image and the decoration style selected by the user from among the plurality of decoration images and the plurality of decoration style samples displayed on the display means by the sample display control means are respectively input. Selection signal input means for setting the predetermined decoration image to be arranged by the arranging means on the basis of the signal input by the selection signal input means, and the setting means for setting the predetermined decoration image. The decoration style can be set.

Therefore, the user can easily select the decoration image and the decoration style.

In the image printing apparatus of the present invention, the decoration image is an image group, and the arranging means selects one image selected from the predetermined image group according to a predetermined rule on the contour of the image of the user. It can be arranged at a predetermined position.

For example, as the image group, an image group forming an animation such as a panda running and falling is adopted, and an image corresponding to each frame of the animation is displayed in accordance with a preset order of displaying each frame. , Each time a different image is selected and placed at a predetermined position on the contour of the user's image (for example, a predetermined position moved at a predetermined time interval as described in claim 8). If
At the time of shooting, it is as if the panda, etc.
It is possible to display a story-like animation such as running and falling along the shoulders and hands). Therefore, it is possible to shoot with playability.

In the image printing apparatus of the present invention, the printing means prints the second image, and the reading means reads the identification information for identifying the mounted printing medium. Based on the reading result,
Print control means for controlling printing on the print medium may be further provided.

The printing medium printed by the printing means may be a sticker.

Therefore, when the seal sheet is replenished to the image printing apparatus, it is possible to replenish the seal sheet previously designated exclusively for the image printing apparatus.

The reading means is composed of, for example, an ID tag reader / writer, and the control means is composed of, for example, a CPU.

The print medium unit of the present invention is a print medium unit used by the above-mentioned image printing apparatus,
The printing medium stores the printing medium on which the second image is printed, and holds the identification information read by the reading unit.

The image printing method of the present invention comprises a photographing step of photographing the user, an extracting step of extracting the user image from the images within the photographing range photographed by the processing of the photographing step, and the processing of the extracting step. A detecting step of detecting the contour of the extracted user image, and an arranging step of arranging a preset predetermined decoration image at a predetermined position on the contour of the user image detected by the processing of the detecting step. And a printing step of printing a composite image of the decoration image arranged by the arrangement step processing and the image within the photographing range photographed by the photographing step processing.

The program of the present invention is extracted by the photographing step of photographing the user, the extracting step of extracting the image of the user from the images within the photographing range photographed by the processing of the photographing step, and the processing of the extracting step. A detecting step of detecting the contour of the user's image, an arranging step of arranging a preset decorative image at a predetermined position on the contour of the user's image detected by the processing of the detecting step, and arranging The computer is caused to execute a printing step of printing a composite image of the decoration image arranged by the processing of the step and the image within the photographing range photographed by the processing of the photographing step.

In the image printing method and program of the present invention, the user's image is extracted from the captured images within the shooting range, the contour of the extracted user's image is detected, and the detected user's image is detected. A predetermined decoration image set in advance is arranged at a predetermined position on the contour of, and a composite image of the arranged decoration image and the captured image within the photographing range is printed.

Therefore, it is possible to provide an image with a rich personality in which a decorative image such as a small bird is attached to the contour of the image of the user (for example, the hand or shoulder).

[0045]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS (First Embodiment) FIGS. 1 and 2
A configuration example of the image printing apparatus 1 to which the first embodiment of the present invention is applied will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 1A shows a side sectional view of the image printing apparatus 1, and FIG. 1B shows a front view thereof.

The image printing apparatus 1 is installed in a building such as a street corner or a building.

A power switch 27 is provided below the rear surface 22b of the housing 22 of the image printing apparatus 1, and its connection terminal is connected to a nearby commercial AC power supply. When the power switch 27 is turned on, the image printing apparatus 1 is activated, while when the switch is turned off, the operation of the image printing apparatus 1 ends.

At a position facing the upper portion of the front surface 22a of the housing 22 of the image printing apparatus 1, the curtain 11 is separated by a predetermined distance.
Is installed, and the user enters between the housing 22 and the curtain 11. That is, of the space between the housing 22 and the curtain 11, a predetermined range of space becomes a shooting range space, and the image printing apparatus 1 shoots an image of a user located (entered) in this shooting range space. To do. In this case, the curtain 11 blocks light (external light) incident from the outside of the space within the shooting range.

Inside the housing 22 of the image printing apparatus 1, the upper portion (FIG. 1A) of the back surface of the rear surface 22b (hereinafter, the outer side of the housing 22 is referred to as the front and the inner side of the housing 22 is referred to as the back).
A CCD (Charge Coupled Device) camera 14 for taking a picture of the user at a predetermined distance from the upper left side of the center.
Is provided, the half mirror 13 is provided on the right side of the CCD camera 14 in FIG. 1A, and the display device 15 including a CRT (Cathode-Ray Tude) is provided below the half mirror 13. , Below the display device 15,
A main controller 19 is provided.

Under the control of the main control unit 19, the display unit 15 displays images photographed by the CCD camera 14, various messages according to the stage of image print creation and print processing.

The half mirror 13 reflects the image displayed on the display device 15 and makes it visible to the user. That is,
A display portion 20 is provided in the upper center portion of the front surface 22a of the housing 22 of the image printing apparatus 1.
The image (the image displayed on the display device 15) reflected by the half mirror 13 described above is displayed on the screen. Further, the half mirror 13 allows an image of a user (a space within the shooting range) to be transmitted at the time of shooting and causes the CCD camera 14 to shoot.

The main control unit 19 is composed of, for example, a personal computer or the like, controls the CCD camera 14 to photograph the user, acquires the image, and performs predetermined image processing on the acquired image (for example, as described later). The composite image generation / display processing of FIG. 4) is performed, and is displayed on the display device 15 as described above.

Further, the main controller 19 is the image printing apparatus 1
Control the overall behavior of.

For example, the front surface 22a of the housing 22 of the image printing apparatus 1 is provided with the illumination devices 12 on both sides of the display portion 20, and the main controller 19 controls the illumination device 12. That is, the illumination device 12 functions as a flash when the user takes an image with the CCD camera 14 under the control of the main controller 19, and the curtain 11 blocks the outside light to darken the inside, so that the imaging is performed. It also illuminates the user in the previous state.

Furthermore, on the front surface 22a of the housing 22 of the image printing apparatus 1, below the display portion 20, an OK button 16a,
An input unit 16 including a NO button 16b and a joystick 16c is provided, and the main control unit 19
Recognizes the signal input from the input unit 16 and executes various processes corresponding thereto.

For example, the main control device 19 causes the display device 15 (display part 20) to display various messages and the like in accordance with the progress of image print creation and print processing.
When the user operates the input unit 16 in accordance with the displayed message or the like, the operation is recognized (the signal from the input unit 16 is recognized), and the accompanying control is executed. This advances the shooting procedure.

Further, the front surface 2 of the housing 22 of the image printing apparatus 1
In 2a, a coin slot 28 is provided on the lower right side of the input section 16 in FIG. 1B, and a price processing section 17 is provided on the back side of the coin slot 28 (inside the housing 22).
The main controller 19 controls the price processing unit 17.

In other words, the price processing section 17 includes the main control unit 19
Based on the control of 1., the coin inserted from the coin insertion slot 28 is detected, the total amount of the inserted coins is calculated, and the calculated amount reaches a predetermined amount preset as the image creation price. If it is determined that it has been done, the main controller 19 is notified of this. The main control device 19 starts the above-described shooting procedure based on the notification from the price processing unit 17.

Although not shown, a return opening for returning change and a bill insertion opening for inserting bills are provided near the coin insertion opening 28, if necessary. In this case, the price processing unit 17 executes processing such as bill detection and change calculation based on the control of the main controller 19.

Further, a photograph outlet 21 is provided below the front surface 22a of the housing 22 of the image printing apparatus 1 (on the lower left side of the coin inlet 28 in FIG. 1B), and the photograph outlet 21 is provided.
A printer 18 is provided on the back side (inside the housing 22) of the printer, and the main controller 19 controls the printer 18.

That is, the printer 18 is a portion which creates an image sticker under the control of the main controller 19, and is a CCD.
An image taken by the camera 14 and subjected to predetermined image processing (various combining processing described later) (an image determined to be printed, hereinafter referred to as a print image)
Is supplied from the sticker sheet unit 23 provided on the printer 18 (hereinafter, the sticker sheet 2
(Also referred to as 5) and the like, and outputs. Printer 18
Prints the print image selected by the user on the sticker paper 25 in the specified division unit. The user can select and print several kinds of print images on one sheet of sticker paper 25.

An ID tag reader / writer 26 is provided on the printer 18, and the ID tag reader / writer 26 reads the ID tag 24 attached to the sticker paper unit 25 and causes the main controller 19 to read the ID tag 24. Notice. The main controller 19 is the ID notified from the ID tag reader / writer 26.
In advance inside the main control unit 19 (for example, ROM 3 to be described later).
By comparing with the ID stored in 2), it is determined whether or not the sticker paper 25 stored in the sticker paper unit 23 is a suitable sticker paper to be used by the image printing apparatus 1. , Enable or disable the image printing device 1.

That is, when the ID written in the ID tag 24 and the ID previously stored in the main control device 19 match, the main control device 19 enables the image printing device 1, while the ID tag The ID written in 24 and the main controller 1 in advance
When the IDs stored in 9 do not match, the main control device 19 disables the image printing device 1.

The sticker paper unit 23 is used in the image printing apparatus 1.
The ID tag 24 is attached at a predetermined position where the ID tag reader / writer 26 can read the ID. An ID corresponding to the type of the sticker paper 25 loaded is written in the ID tag 24 attached to the sticker paper unit 23.

Depending on the model of the image printing device, there is a dedicated sticker paper. Therefore, conventionally, there has been a mistake that a sticker sheet (sticker sheet for other models) that is not compatible with the image printing apparatus is loaded into the image printing apparatus. Therefore, by providing the identifying means for identifying the sticker sheet dedicated to the image printing apparatus 1 as described above, it becomes possible to identify and print the dedicated sticker sheet on the image printing apparatus 1. That is, the mount of the seal sheet, the cartridge storing the mount, or the like is provided with a bar code, an ID tag, or the like so that it can be identified whether it is a dedicated one. This allows
Good quality seals can be used in a limited way, and good print finish can be maintained.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration example of the image printing apparatus 1 of FIG. Description of the parts described in FIG. 1 will be omitted.

In the main controller 19 of FIG. 2, the CPU (Cen
tral Processing Unit) 31, ROM (Read Only Memor)
y) 32 and RAM (Random Access Memory) 33 are
It is connected to the bus 35.

The CPU 31 operates in accordance with the program stored in the ROM 32 or the program loaded into the RAM 33 from the storage unit 37 to operate the main controller 19 as a whole.
Control via bus 35. RAM31 also has CPU31
Data and the like necessary for executing various processes are appropriately stored. Further, the CPU 31 has a timer (system clock) 31a therein, and the timer 31a performs a timekeeping operation.

That is, the various operations controlled by the main controller 19 described above are actually controlled by the CPU 31 incorporated in the main controller 19.

For example, the CCD camera control unit 34 is also connected to the bus 35, and the CPU 31 controls the CCD camera control unit 34 via the bus 35. That is, the CCD camera control unit 34 is an external (outside of the main control device 19) CC
It is connected to the D camera 14, and starts and ends the photographing operation by the CCD camera 14 based on the control of the CPU 31, and controls the zoom ratio of the CCD camera 14, the amount of light to be captured, and the like as appropriate.

An input / output interface 36 is also connected to the bus 35. The input / output interface 36 is connected to the above-mentioned external CC (external from the viewpoint of the main controller 19) CC.
The D camera 14 and the display device 15 are connected. As a result, the CPU 31 acquires the image captured by the CCD camera 14 via the input / output interface 36 and the bus 35, performs predetermined image processing on the acquired image, and executes the image processing via the bus 35 and the input / output interface 36. It is displayed on the display device 15.

Further, the input / output interface 36 includes
The above-described external (external from the viewpoint of the main controller 19) lighting device 12, input unit 16, price processing unit 17, printer 18,
And the ID tag reader / writer 26 is connected. As a result, the CPU 31 controls the lighting device 12, the price processing unit 17, and the printer 18 via the input / output interface 36 and the bus 35, and also inputs / outputs from the input unit 16 or the ID tag reader / writer 26. Various operations are controlled based on signals input via the interface 36 and the bus 35. Note that the control of these CPUs 31 is the same as that described above as the control of the main control device 19, so description thereof will be omitted.

The input / output interface 36 is also connected to a storage unit 37 including a hard disk and a communication unit 38 including a modem and a terminal adapter. The communication unit 38 performs communication processing via the network.

A drive 39 is connected to the input / output interface 36 if necessary, and the magnetic disk 51,
The optical disc 52, the magneto-optical disc 53, the semiconductor memory 54, or the like is appropriately mounted, and the computer program read from them is installed in the storage unit 37 as necessary.

Next, referring to the flowchart of FIG.
The processing of the image printing apparatus 1 of FIG. 1 will be described.

In step S11, the main controller 19
The CPU 31 determines whether or not a coin has been inserted, by determining whether or not the price processing unit 17 detects a coin.

When it is determined in step S11 that no coin has been inserted, the process returns to step S11 and the CP
U31 determines again whether a coin has been inserted. That is, the CPU 31 waits for the processing until a coin is inserted.

Now, it is assumed that the user has inserted a predetermined amount of coin into the coin slot 28.

Therefore, in step S11, the CPU 3
1 determines that a coin has been inserted, and in step S12, the CCD camera 14 starts the photographing of the space within the photographing range under the control of the CPU 31.

In this example, the CCD camera 14 continuously shoots the space within the shooting range. That is,
Based on the control of the CPU 31, the CCD camera control unit 34 controls the CCD camera 14 constituting the digital still camera so as to continuously capture the space within the capturing range.

Hereinafter, such "continuous shooting" will be referred to as "monitoring" and the "currently monitored image" will be referred to as "monitor image".

That is, after the processing of step S12 is completed (until the processing of step S23 described later is executed), the CCD camera 14 constantly monitors the user within the photographing range.

In step S13, the CPU 31 sets a decoration image and a decoration style.

Specifically, the CPU 31 has the storage unit 37 in advance.
Of a plurality of decoration images (for example, a panda decoration image 74 of FIG. 7 described later) and a plurality of decoration styles (for example, “decoration ID N” of each decoration style table 61 of FIG. 5 described later). A sample of each decorative style that constitutes the decorative pattern 61-N is displayed on the display device 15 (display site 20).

As a sample of the decoration style, the decoration pattern 61-N of each "decoration ID N" in the decoration style table 61 is used.
May be displayed as it is, or a predetermined decoration image that has been image-processed based on the decoration pattern 61-N of each “decoration ID N” may be displayed.

In this example, the user is
A desired decoration image and decoration style are selected from a plurality of decoration images and a plurality of decoration style samples displayed at 0 by operating the joystick 16c, for example. It is assumed that the button 16a is operated.

Now, for example, the panda decoration image 74 is selected as the decoration image, and the decoration pattern 61-1 of "decoration ID 1" in the decoration style table 61 is selected as the decoration style.
Is selected by the user.

Therefore, the CPU 31 causes the joystick 16c to
Decorative image that is more supplied (Panda decorative image 74)
And a signal corresponding to the decoration style (decoration pattern 61-1 of “decoration ID 1”) are input and stored in the RAM 33 as a decoration image and a decoration style to be set.

Further, when the user presses the OK button 16a, the CPU 31 inputs the signal supplied from the OK button 16a, determines that the user has selected the decoration image and the decoration style, and now the RAM 33 The decoration image and the decoration style to be set, which are stored in, are set as the final decoration image and the decoration style.

That is, in this example, the panda decoration image 74 is set as the decoration image, and the decoration style is set as
The decoration pattern 61-1 of "decoration ID 1" is set.

Thus, the user can easily select a desired design while looking at the display area 20.

After the processing of step S13, the CPU 3
The display device 1 displays the selected decoration image and decoration style.
5 (display part 20) and a message to the user as to whether or not to re-select the decoration image and the decoration style (for example, “Is this (displayed decoration image and decoration style) OK? You can display a message such as "OK button if you like, or press NO button to try again").

In that case, the user operates the input unit 16 to supply a signal indicating that the image is to be redone or a signal indicating that the image is not redone to the image printing apparatus 1 (for example, when the image is to be redone, the NO button 16b is pressed and the redone is made. If not, press the YES button 16a). Image printing device 1 (CPU 31)
Determines whether to redo based on the supplied signal, and when it determines to redo, repeats step S13. On the other hand, if it is determined not to start over, the process proceeds to step S14.

Further, in this example, a decoration pattern (collection of a plurality of decoration styles) 61 of one “decoration ID N” is selected from the decoration style table 61 that is preset (stored in the storage unit 37 in advance). By letting the user select -N,
A plurality of decoration styles (for example, the size, the rotation angle, and the rotation angle of the decoration image forming the decoration pattern 61-N of each “decoration ID N”).
Although the transparency, the moving direction / step, etc.) are set, the decoration styles may be selected independently. As a result, the user can make more detailed selections and can acquire an image with higher satisfaction.

In step S14, the CPU 31 selects the decoration image (in this example, the decoration image 7 of the panda).
4) and the decoration style (decoration pattern 61-1 of “decoration ID 1” in this example) are read from the storage unit 37, and the RAM
In step S15, the read decoration image is processed (image processing) according to the read decoration style.

For example, in this example, the decoration image 74 is
The size is reduced to the size described in the decoration pattern 61-1 of "decoration ID 1", that is, the width is 40 pixels and the height is 50 pixels.

The size changing method is not limited, but for example, a method of reducing dots according to the reduction ratio,
That is, the thinning method, the bilinear method, the bicubic method, or the like may be used.

Further, in this example, since the rotation angle described in the decoration pattern 61-1 of "decoration ID 1" is 0 degree, the decoration image 74 is rotated by 0 degrees (not rotated).

Although the rotation method is not limited, for example, affine transformation represented by the following equation (1) may be used.

[0101]

[Equation 1]

However, (x_New, y_New) indicates the coordinates of each pixel of the decoration image 74 after the rotation processing, while
(X, y) indicates the coordinates of each pixel of the decoration image 74 before the rotation processing. Further, th indicates the rotation angle [Radian].

The rotation angle to be set is not limited, but may be set to a multiple of 90 degrees, for example. In that case (when th is set to a multiple of 90 [degrees] (π / 2 [Radian])), each element of the conversion matrix of the above formula (1) is either 1, 0, or -1. And the amount of calculation related to the rotation processing can be reduced. That is,
There is no need to increase the processing capacity of the CPU 31 more than necessary, and the manufacturer can reduce the cost of the main control device 19 of the image processing apparatus 1 (the main control device 19 equipped with the CPU 31 having low processing capacity is Can be adopted).

Further, in this example, the decoration pattern 61-1 having the "decoration ID 1" is used to determine the "color" and the transparency "3".
0% ”(transparency 0% means opaque (the base is not transparent)), so the decoration image 74
Is processed into a color image having a transparency of 30%.

In step S16, the CPU 31 causes the CCD
One monitor image monitored by the camera 14 is acquired, a user image is extracted from the acquired monitor image, and the extracted user image and a background image prepared in advance are combined to create a first image. Generate a composite image.

Further, the CPU 31 detects the contour of the extracted user image, is set at a predetermined position on the contour of the detected user image by the process of step S13, and is also set by the process of step S15. The processed decoration image is arranged, the arranged decoration image and the first combined image are combined to generate a second combined image, which is displayed on the display device 15.
(Display site 20).

That is, in step S16, the CPU 31 has a highly unique image (second synthetic image) in which a decorative image such as a panda or a bird is attached to the contour of the image of the user (for example, the hand or shoulder). Can be generated and displayed on the display device 15 (display site 20).

The processing in step S16 is referred to as "composite image generation processing / display processing" here. Details of the "composite image generation process / display process" of this example are shown in FIG. Therefore, the "composite image generation process /
Display processing "will be described with reference to FIG.

That is, in step S31, the CPU 31
Acquires the time measured by the built-in timer 31a and determines whether or not a preset predetermined sampling time has elapsed based on the acquired time.

If it is determined in step S31 that the predetermined sampling time has not elapsed,
Returning to step S31, the CPU 31 determines again whether or not a predetermined sampling time has elapsed. That is, the CPU 31 waits for the processing until a predetermined sampling time elapses.

When it is determined in step S31 that the predetermined sampling time has elapsed, in step S32, the CPU 31 acquires one monitor image within the photographing range monitored by the CCD camera 14,
It is stored in the RAM 33.

In step S33, the CPU 31 extracts the user image from the acquired monitor images.
The extraction method is not limited, but in this example, the user image is extracted by the following method, for example.

That is, for example, if the color of the curtain 11 is blue, the image of the portion other than the user's image (hereinafter referred to as the background portion) in the acquired monitor image is a substantially blue solid image. Has become. Therefore, the CPU 31
For each pixel data of the acquired monitor image, it is determined whether or not the blue component is included at a predetermined level or more. If it is determined that the blue component is included, the pixel is identified as the background portion, and If it is determined that the pixel is not included, the pixel is identified as the user portion.

In step S34, the CPU 31 synthesizes the user image thus extracted with the preset background image to generate a first synthetic image.

In this example, the background image is defined in the decoration style set in the process of step S13 of FIG. 3, that is, the decoration style table 61, and the image defined in this is used as the background image. To be done. In particular,
Since the decoration pattern 61-1 of "decoration ID 1" is set, the background image "Fyab001.BMP" defined therein is used.

Therefore, as shown in FIG. 6, the CPU 31 synthesizes the background image (Fyab001.BMP) 72 and the user image 71 to generate a first synthesized image 73.

In step S35, step S33
The boundary between the image of the user and the image of the background portion, which is extracted by the processing of 1, ie, the contour of the image of the user is detected.

Either the user image 71 before the base image 72 is composited or the first composite image 73 is used as a base image for detecting the contour of the user's image. But in this example,
The first composite image shall be used.

Further, although the detection method is not limited, in this example, for example, the CPU 31 sets a plurality of detection coordinates en serving as a reference for detecting an outline, and based on the detection coordinates en, the user can detect the background from the background portion. A point (hereinafter, referred to as a contour point an) that changes into a part is detected.

Further, in this example, one point corresponds to one pixel. That is, when the upper left end of the image is the origin (0, 0), the coordinates (x, y) are x dots in the right direction (hereinafter referred to as the x direction) from the upper left end (the origin) of the image, and Y in the downward direction (hereinafter referred to as the y direction)
The coordinates of pixels located at positions separated by dots are used.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6, the CPU
Reference numeral 31 denotes the decoration pattern set in the process of step S13 of FIG. 3, that is, the starting point coordinates (10, 0) defined in the decoration pattern 61-1 of "decoration ID 1" are first (first) Coordinates set as detection coordinates e1 and moved from this first detection coordinate e1 by a movement step (100 dots) in the movement direction (x direction) defined in the decoration pattern 61-1 of "decoration ID 1". (110,0) is the next (second) detected coordinate e
Set as 2. The third and subsequent detected coordinates en are set in the same manner as the second detected coordinate e2.

That is, the nth detected coordinate en is a step of moving the (n-1) th coordinate en-1 in the moving direction (x direction) defined in the decoration pattern 61-1 of "decoration ID 1". Coordinates moved by 100 dots).

Therefore, the first detected coordinate e1 is the starting point coordinate (10, 0), and the second detected coordinate e2 is the coordinate (11
At 0, 0), the third detected coordinate e3 is the coordinate (210,
0), the fourth detected coordinate e4 is the coordinate (310, 0)
The fifth detected coordinate e5 is the coordinate (410, 0).
, Respectively.

Next, the CPU 31 determines the set detection coordinate e1.
Detection coordinates ek (k is 1
(Any one of values 5) is updated, pixels are scanned in the y direction (direction perpendicular to the moving direction (x direction)) from the updated detection coordinates ek, and the pixels of the background portion are changed to pixels of the user portion. A pixel that changes to a pixel is detected, and this pixel is set as the contour point ak.
It is stored in the RAM 33.

That is, the CPU 31 moves the detection coordinate ek from the previous detection coordinate ek-1 in the movement direction (x direction) by the movement distance (100 dots), and the image of the user corresponding to each detection coordinate ek. The contour point ak of is detected.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6, as the contour of the image of the user, the contour point a1 (10, y1), the contour point a2 (110, y2), the contour point a3 (210, y3), Contour point a4 (310, y4) and contour point a5 (410, y
5) are respectively detected.

In this example, when the contour of the user's image is detected, the first composite image 73 is used as the basis, but as described above, the user image before the base image 72 is composited. (Image of the same size as the first composite image 73)
It may be based on 61. In that case, in the base user image 71, the image of the portion other than the user, that is, the background portion is a black solid image, so that the CPU 31 can more easily detect the contour of the image of the user. . That is,
The CPU 31 may detect a point (pixel) at which a black pixel (pixel whose R, G, and B components are 0) changes to a pixel of the user's portion (non-black pixel).

In step S36, the setting is made in step S13 of FIG.
Arrangement coordinates serving as a reference when arranging the decoration image processed by the process of 5, ie, the processed decoration image 74 are calculated.

The calculation method is not limited, but for example,
Of the contour points a1 to a5 detected by the process of step S35, a predetermined one point is selected as the arrangement coordinate and the coordinate is calculated (however, in this example, the contour point a1 has already been calculated).
Since a5 to a5 have been calculated, it is only necessary to select).

In this example, the initial setting of the arrangement coordinates is set to the contour point a1, and thereafter, each time the processing of step S36 is performed (every time the composite image generation / display processing is performed), it is selected. A contour point an next to the previously selected contour point an-1 is selected as the arrangement coordinate.

In step S37, the CPU 31 arranges the decoration image 74 at the position corresponding to the arrangement coordinates of the first composite image 73.

For example, the contour point a1 (10,
When y1) is selected, as shown in FIG. 7, in the decoration image 74, the x coordinate of the point b1 at the upper left end of the decoration image 74 matches the x coordinate (10) of the arrangement coordinate (outline point a1), and The point b2 at the lower right end is arranged on the first composite image 73 so that the y coordinate of the arrangement coordinate (outline point a1) coincides with the y coordinate (y1).

That is, the size of the decoration image 74 is 50 in height.
Since it is a dot and the width is 40 dots, in the decoration image 74, the coordinate of the point b1 is (10, y1-50), and the point b2 is
Are arranged on the first combined image 73 so that the coordinates of (50 (10 + 40), y1).

In step S38, the CPU 31 synthesizes the arranged decoration image 74 and the first composite image 73, and outputs the second composite image 75 as shown in FIG. 7 (however, the decoration image 74 is Only one image at the position arranged in the process of step 37) is generated and stored in the RAM 33, and in step S39, it is displayed.
(Display site 20).

Returning to FIG. 3, in step S17, CP
U31 is a print image (image to be printed by the printer 18)
It is determined whether or not there is a confirmation instruction of.

For example, in this example, FIG.
In step S39 of, the CPU 31 displays the second combined image 75 on the display device 15 (display part 20) and prompts the user to confirm the print image (for example, if the “OK button is pressed, A message such as "Start shooting" will be displayed.

Therefore, when the user operates the input unit 16 in accordance with this message, and a signal corresponding to the print image confirmation instruction is input to the CPU 31 (for example, when the user presses the OK button 16a). ),CPU
31 determines that the instruction to confirm the print image has been given, while
In other cases, it is determined that there is no print image confirmation instruction.

If it is determined in step S17 that there is no print image confirmation instruction, the process returns to step S16.
The subsequent processing is repeated.

That is, until it is determined in step S17 that the print image confirmation instruction has been issued (OK by the user.
The process of step S16 (synthesized image generation / display process) is repeated until the button 16a is pressed.

Specifically, the CPU 31 acquires one image of the user monitored by the CCD camera 14 for each predetermined sampling, and a new first composite image based on the acquired image of the user. 73, and the arrangement coordinates of the decoration image 74 are recalculated, and the decoration image 74 arranged at the position corresponding to the recalculated arrangement coordinates and the newly generated first composite image 73 Are synthesized to generate a new second synthesized image 75, which is displayed.

That is, the display device 15 (display portion 20) is
A new second composite image 75 is displayed (the display is updated) every predetermined sampling. Therefore, the decoration image 7
4 follows the movement of the user in real time (at a predetermined sampling time), and the state is displayed, so that the user can display the desired composition (the desired second composite image 75 is displayed). The print image can be confirmed at the time point).

Further, the placement coordinates selected (calculated) in the process of step S36 of FIG. 4 are calculated every time (step S1).
6 is changed (every time the processing (synthesized image generation / display processing) is performed), the decoration image 74 is moving along the contour of the user image 71 at the time of shooting, as shown in FIG. Is displayed.

Therefore, when the decoration image is not the above-described one still image, which is the decoration image 74, but an image group forming an animation such as a panda running and falling, the CPU 31 determines (Every time the processing of step S16 (synthesized image generation / display processing) is performed)
By arranging the images of the respective frames in sequence on the composite image 73 of No. 1, it is possible to create a story like a panda running along the contour of the user (for example, a shoulder or a hand) and falling. A certain animation can be displayed on the display device 15 (display site 29).

As described above, the image printing apparatus 1 is capable of shooting with playability.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S17 that the print image confirmation instruction has been issued (OK by the user.
When the button 16a is pressed), the CPU 31 acquires the time at that time (at the time when the signal corresponding to the OK button 16a is input) from the built-in timer 31a, and stores the time in the RAM 33 as the clock start time. .

Then, in step S18, the CPU 3
1 acquires the time from the timer 31a at a predetermined interval, subtracts the clocking start time from the acquired time to calculate the elapsed time, and determines whether the elapsed time is within a predetermined time set in advance. By determining whether or not, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed. At the same time, the CPU
31 calculates the remaining time up to a predetermined time (subtracts the elapsed time from the predetermined time) and displays it on the display device 15 (display part 20) (for example, "remaining time m (m is
Display a message such as "value to be counted down)").

If it is determined in step S18 that the predetermined time has not elapsed, the process returns to step S16, and the subsequent processes are repeated.

If it is determined in step S18 that the predetermined time has elapsed, in step S19, the CP
The U31 causes the display device 15 (display part 20) to display a message indicating that the predetermined time has elapsed (for example, a message such as "remaining time 0"), and immediately before step S1.
6 is generated in the process of 6 (now display device 15 (display part 2
The second combined image 75 (displayed in 0)) is confirmed as a print image, and the user is asked whether or not the print image (the second combined image 75) that has just been confirmed may be printed. Message to ask (for example, "Is this all right?"
If this is ok, press the OK button. When the process is to be redone, press the NO button ”and the like) is displayed on the display device 15 (display part 20).

The user operates the input unit 16 according to the displayed message to select whether or not the print image (the second composite image 75) that has just been decided may be printed.

For example, when a signal indicating that the print image just decided may be printed (for example, when the user presses the YES button 16a), and for a certain period of time (the process of step S18 and If another signal has not been input at the time when (a predetermined time) has passed (when the user has not operated anything), the CPU 31 does not give an instruction to change the print image in step S20. It is determined that

On the other hand, if a signal not to print the second composite image that has just been determined is input (for example, if the NO button 16b is pressed by the user), step S20
At, the CPU 31 determines that there is an instruction to change the print image.

If it is determined in step S20 that there is an instruction to change the print image, the process returns to step S16, and the CPU 31 repeats the subsequent processing. That is,
The user can retake the pose and select the print image again.

If it is determined in step S20 that there is no instruction to change the print image, step S21
At the printer 18, under the control of the CPU 31, the printer 18 determines the print image (second print
The composite image 75) is printed on a sticker sheet. The seal sheet printed by the printer 18 is used as a photo outlet 21.
Is discharged from and provided to the user.

As described above, the user operates the input unit 16 (for example, presses the OK button 16a) after deciding the pose, and confirms the remaining time displayed on the display device 15 (display part 20). When the final pose is taken, the image of the user (second composite image 75) taken in the final pose is determined as the print image, and is printed.

As a result, the user can obtain an image taken in a desired pose without using a remote controller device or the like for pressing the shutter, and
Since the manufacturer does not need a remote controller device or the like for pressing the shutter, it is possible to reduce costs associated therewith.

In this example, the number of times the user is photographed is one, that is, the number of poses of the image of the user to be printed is limited to one. May be done. In that case, for example, after the process of step S20 is completed, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the number of times of image capturing has been completed, and if it is determined that the image capturing has not been completed, the CPU 31 determines by the process of the immediately preceding step S19. The generated second combined image 75 (photographed image of the user) is stored in the RAM 33 as a print image, the process returns to step S16, and the subsequent processes may be repeated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the printing has been completed, the plurality of print images (the second composite image 75 having different poses for the number of times of shooting) stored in the RAM 33 are read out, and these are predetermined on one sticker sheet, for example. The printer 18 may be arranged in this order and the printer 18 may print.

When the print image is printed (step S21)
When the processing in step S22 is completed), the CPU 31 causes the step S22 to be performed.
In step S24, it is determined whether the power switch 27 has been turned off.
At, the monitor by the CCD camera 14 is terminated, the process returns to step S11, and the subsequent processes are repeated. That is, until the coin is inserted by the next user, the CPU 31
Waits for its processing.

On the other hand, when it is determined in step S22 that the power switch 27 is turned off, the CPU 31
The process ends.

By the way, when the seal sheet loaded in the image printing apparatus 1 is almost exhausted, the administrator of the image printing apparatus 1 replaces it with a new seal sheet unit 23 to replenish the seal sheet. . When the seal sheet is replenished, the CPU 31 of the image printing apparatus 1 collates the ID tag 24 attached to the sticker sheet unit 23 so that the refilled seal sheet is
It is possible to determine whether or not it is suitable for. next,
The ID detection processing of the sticker sheet (sticker paper 25) will be described with reference to FIG.

In step S101, the CPU 31
At a predetermined position of the image printing apparatus 1, the sticker paper unit 23
Is attached, and if the sticker sheet unit 23 is attached, the process proceeds to step S102.

In step S102, the ID tag reader / writer 26 reads the ID of the ID tag 24 attached to the sticker paper unit 23 and sends it to the CPU 31 in response to a command from the CPU 31.

In step S103, the CPU 31
The ID received from the ID tag reader / writer 26 in the process of step S102 and the sticker sheet I previously stored in the ROM 32
When D is collated and both IDs are the same, step S10
4, the CPU 31 causes the display device 15 (display part 20)
, A message indicating that the image printing apparatus 1 is available is displayed.

In step S105, the CPU 31
The image printing apparatus 1 is returned to the normal image-capable state (state of step S11 in FIG. 3).

In step S103, the CPU 31 causes the I
The ID received from the D tag reader / writer 26 and the ROM 2 in advance
When it is determined that the sticker sheet IDs stored in 2 do not match, the process proceeds to step S106, and the CPU 31 causes the display device 1
5 (display part 20) cannot use the image printing device 1
Display a message indicating that (imaging is not possible).

At step S107, the CPU 31
The image printing device 1 is set to be unusable (capable of shooting).
As a method thereof, for example, a shutter can be set down on the coin insertion opening 28 so that coins are not inserted through the coin insertion opening 28.

In this embodiment, the sticker paper unit 23 is provided with the ID tag 24. However, if the kind of the sticker paper 25 loaded in the sticker paper unit 23 can be identified. Alternatively, the sticker paper 25 may be identified by other methods.

For example, instead of the ID tag 24, a method such as a bar code or an IC card is used, and the sticker paper unit 23
May be identified. Further, the shape of the mounting portion of the sticker paper unit 23 to the image printing apparatus 1 is made different depending on the model of the image printing apparatus 1 so that only the suitable sticker paper unit 23 can be mounted to the image printing apparatus 1. Is also good.

The sticker paper 25 and the sticker paper unit 2
3 can be configured to be separable, or can be configured integrally.

(Second Embodiment) FIG. 9 shows a configuration example of an image printing apparatus 81 to which the second embodiment of the present invention is applied, and a portion corresponding to the image printing apparatus 1 in FIG. Corresponding reference numerals are attached.

In this configuration example, the touch panel 16e laminated on the display portion 20 is provided.

That is, as described above, the display portion 20 displays the image reflected by the half mirror 13 (the image displayed on the display device 15), for example, the image captured by the CCD camera 14 and the edited image. It is displayed in an overlapping manner. Therefore, while the user is inputting graffiti or the like, the photographed image on which the graffiti or the like is applied is displayed on the display part 20.

The touch panel 16e is the stylus pen 1
Input from 6d is detected. That is, the user selects the selection button or the like displayed on the display part 20 with the stylus pen 16d.
Is used to make a selection, or the photographed image displayed on the display region 20 is scribbled on it. Input data from the stylus pen 16d is displayed on the touch panel 16
It is detected by e and written in the main controller 19 as input data.

The other structure is the same as that shown in FIG.

Although not shown, the image printing device 8
The internal structure of 1 is basically the same as the internal structure of the image printing apparatus 1 of FIG. In the following description, FIG. 2 is also referred to as an internal configuration of the image printing device 81.

Next, the processing of the image printing apparatus 81 shown in FIG. 9 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

At step S111, main controller 1
The CPU 31 of 9 determines whether or not a coin has been inserted, based on whether or not the price processing unit 17 detects a coin.

If it is determined in step S111 that no coin has been inserted, the process returns to step S111, and the CPU 31 determines again whether a coin has been inserted. That is, the CPU 31 waits for the processing until a coin is inserted.

Now, it is assumed that the user has inserted a predetermined amount of coins into the coin slot 28.

Therefore, in step S111, the CPU
31 determines that a coin has been inserted, and step S112
At, the CCD camera 14 starts monitoring the space within the shooting range under the control of the CPU 31.

In step S113, the CPU 31
A first composite image is generated.

That is, the CPU 31 displays various messages and the like on the display part 20 (display device 15) according to the progress of image print creation and print processing, and the input unit 16 (for example, operated by the user). , OK button 1
6a, or the NO button 16b, etc.) to recognize the signal supplied, and proceed with the photographing procedure.

In this example, the OK button 16a, the NO button 16b, the joystick 16c, and the stylus pen 16d (touch panel 16e) are used to advance the shooting procedure.
Only d (touch panel 16e) may be used. In that case, for example, the CPU 31 displays various selection buttons (soft buttons) on the display part 20 according to the progress of image print creation and printing processing, and allows the user to select the selection button (stylus pen). By arranging the tip of 16d on the displayed selection button), it is recognized and the photographing procedure is advanced.

Then, steps S31 to S34 in FIG.
Similarly to the above, the CPU 31 acquires a monitor image at a predetermined sampling time, extracts a user image from the monitor image, synthesizes the extracted monitor image and the background image selected by the user, and performs a first synthesis. Generate an image.

At step S114, the CPU 31
It is determined whether or not there is an instruction to confirm the print image (image to be printed by the printer 18).

For example, in this example, step S1
In 13, the CPU 31 displays the first combined image on the display part 20 and prompts the user to give an instruction to confirm the print image (for example, a message such as “When the OK button is pressed, shooting is started”). ) Is displayed.

Therefore, when the user operates the input unit 16 in accordance with this message, and thereby a signal corresponding to the print image confirmation instruction is input to the CPU 31 (for example, when the user presses the OK button 16a). ),CPU
31 determines that the instruction to confirm the print image has been given, while
In other cases, it is determined that there is no print image confirmation instruction.

If it is determined in step S114 that there is no print image confirmation instruction, the process returns to step S113 to repeat the subsequent processing.

That is, until it is determined in step S114 that the print image confirmation instruction has been issued (by the user.
The process of step S113 is repeated until the OK button 16a is pressed).

Specifically, the CPU 31 acquires one image of the user monitored by the CCD camera 14 for each predetermined sampling, and creates a new first composite image based on the acquired image of the user. Is generated and displayed on the display part 20.

That is, the display part 20 displays a new first composite image (updates its display) every predetermined sampling. Therefore, the user can determine the print image at the time when the desired composition is obtained (at the time when the desired first composite image is displayed).

On the other hand, when it is determined in step S114 that the print image confirmation instruction has been issued (by the user,
When the OK button 16a is pressed), the CPU 31 acquires the time at that time (at the time when the signal corresponding to the OK button 16a is input) from the built-in timer 31a, and stores the time in the RAM 33 as the clock start time. Let

Then, in step S115, the CPU
31 acquires time from the timer 31a at predetermined intervals,
Whether the predetermined time has elapsed by calculating the elapsed time by subtracting the time counting start time from the acquired time and determining whether this elapsed time is within the preset predetermined time To determine. At the same time, CP
The U31 calculates the remaining time up to a predetermined time (subtracts the elapsed time from the predetermined time) and displays it on the display part 20 (for example, "remaining time m (m is a value to be counted down)". Message is displayed).

If it is determined in step S115 that the predetermined time has not elapsed, the process returns to step S113 to repeat the subsequent processing.

When it is determined in step S115 that the predetermined time has elapsed, the CPU 31 displays in the display portion 20 a message (for example, a message "remaining time 0") indicating that the predetermined time has elapsed in step S116. The first combined image that has been displayed and has been generated in the immediately preceding step S113 (currently displayed in the display region 20) is confirmed as the print image, and the currently confirmed print image (the first combined image). Message that asks the user whether or not to print) (for example, a message such as "Is this all right? If you like this, press the OK button. If you want to start over, press the NO button") Is displayed on the display part 20.

The user operates the input unit 16 in accordance with the displayed message to select whether or not the print image (first composite image) that has just been decided may be printed.

For example, when a signal indicating that the print image just decided may be printed (for example, when the user presses the YES button 16a), and for a certain period of time (the process of step S115 and If another signal has not been input at the time when (a predetermined time) has passed (when the user has not operated anything), step S117
At, the CPU 31 determines that there is no instruction to change the print image.

On the other hand, when a signal indicating that the second composite image just decided is not printed (for example, when the NO button 16b is pressed by the user), step S11
In 7, the CPU 31 determines that there is an instruction to change the print image.

If it is determined in step S117 that there is an instruction to change the print image, step S11
Returning to step 3, the CPU 31 repeats the subsequent processing. That is, the user can retake the pose and select the print image again.

When it is determined in step S117 that there is no instruction to change the print image, step S1
In 18, the user is instructed to the print image (first
(Composite image of) is subjected to graffiti processing.

The processing in step S118 is referred to as "graffiti processing" herein. Details of the "scribble process" of this example are shown in FIG. Therefore, the "scribble process" of this example will be described with reference to FIG.

In the above description, the number of times the user is photographed is one, that is, the number of poses of the image of the user to be printed is one. However, the number of times is not limited and may be a plurality of times. May be.

For example, when the number of times the user is photographed is three, if the first first composite image (first pose image) is determined as the print image in step S116 of FIG. The image of the first pose is stored in the RAM 33 and displayed in the area of the selected image 81a in FIG. After that, steps S113 to S117 are performed again.
Is repeated, and the second first combined image (image of the second pose) is stored in the RAM 33 and displayed in the area of the selected image 81b. Similarly, the first of the third time
The composite image (image of the third pose) is stored in the RAM 33 and is displayed in the area of the selected image 81c.

Therefore, the user uses the stylus pen 16d.
Is operated to select, from among the images displayed in the areas of the selected images 81a to 81c, an image (edited image) to be scribbled.

For example, when the first composite image 73 of FIG. 6 is displayed in the area of the selected image 81a and the user selects it, in step S131, the CPU 3
1 recognizes that the tip of the stylus pen 16d is placed in the area of the selected image 81a, and determines the image (first combined image 73) displayed in the area of the selected image 81a as the edited image 85. At the same time, as shown in FIG. 12, it is displayed in the central part of the display part 20 (at this time, the panda decoration image 74 is not displayed).

[0205] In step S132, the CPU 31
From the built-in timer 31a at that time (step S131
The time at the end of) is acquired, and the time is stored in the RAM 33 as the time counting start time. And the CPU 31
Acquires the time from the timer 31a at a predetermined interval, subtracts the time counting start time from the acquired time to calculate the elapsed time, and determines whether the elapsed time is within a preset time limit. By determining, it is determined whether the time limit has elapsed.

At the same time, as in the process of step S18, the CPU 31 calculates the remaining time up to a predetermined time (subtracts the elapsed time from the predetermined time) and displays it on the display part 20. May be (for example, "remaining time
m (where m is the value to be counted down) "may be displayed).

If it is determined in step S132 that the time limit has elapsed, the CPU 31 ends the graffiti processing and proceeds to the next step, that is, step S119 in FIG.

When it is determined in step S132 that the time limit has not elapsed, the CPU 31 determines in step S133 whether the contour stamp has been selected.

That is, the user places the stylus pen 16d (touch panel 16e) on the area of the desired stamp type among the background stamp 82a, the foreground stamp 82b, and the contour stamp 82c shown in FIG. Select the type of stamp to use from now on.

In this example, for example, the above-mentioned decoration image is arranged and displayed (stamped) at a predetermined position of the edited image 85 (first composite image 73).
This is simply called a stamp.

The background stamp 82a is a stamp in which, when a part (or the whole) of the decoration image is placed on the user image in a superimposed manner, the portion overlapping the user image is not displayed. In this case, the contour of the user is detected by the same processing as step S35 in FIG. 4, and it is determined whether the decoration image overlaps the image of the user based on the detected contour of the user. .

The foreground stamp 82b is a stamp arranged such that the decoration image is at the forefront (before other screens such as the user's image and the background image), that is, a stamp on which all the decoration images are displayed. Is.

As described above (as described in the first embodiment), the contour stamp 82c means the step S in FIG.
By the same processing as 35, the contour of the user is detected, a decoration image is arranged on the detected contour of the user,
This is the stamp that will be displayed.

If the background stamp 82a and the foreground stamp 82b are selected, or if other graffiti processing such as text insertion (not shown) is selected, the CPU 31 determines in step S133 that the contour stamp It is determined that it is not selected, and step S134
In, the graffiti processing other than the contour stamp that has just been selected is executed, the process returns to step S132, and the subsequent processing is repeated.

On the other hand, if the contour stamp 82c is selected by the user in step S133, the CPU 31
Recognizes it, determines that the contour stamp has been selected, and displays the display part 2 in the same manner as the processing of step S35 in FIG.
The outline of the user is detected in the edited image 85 displayed at the center of 0, and the detected outline 71a of the user is blinked.

If it is determined in step S135 that the time limit has elapsed, the CPU 31 ends the graffiti processing and proceeds to the next step, that is, step S119 in FIG.

When it is determined in step S135 that the time limit has not elapsed, the CPU 31 determines in step S136 whether a decoration image (item) has been selected.

That is, when it is determined in step S133 that the contour stamp 82c has been selected, the decoration image corresponding to the contour stamp 82c is displayed in the area of the item 83, as shown in FIG. That is, for example,
Assuming that three predetermined images are stored in the ROM 32 or the like as the decoration image corresponding to the contour stamp 82c, the CPU 31
Reads those images and selects items 83a-83
Display each in the area c.

For example, when the panda decoration image 74 is displayed in the area of the item 83a and the user selects it with the stylus pen 16d, the CPU 31 in step S136 causes the stylus pen 16d to operate.
Recognize that the tip of the item has been placed in the area of the item 83a, and stamp it from now (place it in the edited image 85)
It is determined that the decoration image (item) is selected. That is,
The CPU 31 determines the image (panda's decoration image 74) displayed in the area of the item 83a as the decoration image to be stamped from now on.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S136 that the decoration image (item) is not selected,
Returning to step S135, the CPU 31 repeats the subsequent processing. That is, a decorative image is selected, or
The CPU 31 waits for the processing until the time limit elapses.

When a decoration image is selected (step S13)
If YES is determined in the processing of step 6), in step S137, as in the processing of steps S36 to S38 of FIG. The image 74 is arranged at a position corresponding to the arrangement coordinate of the first composite image 73, and the arranged decoration image 74 and the edited image 85 (first composite image 73) are composited, as shown in FIG. 7. Second composite image 75
(However, the decoration image 74 is only one image arranged at the position corresponding to the calculated arrangement coordinates),
It is stored in the RAM 33, and in step S138, it is displayed in the central portion of the display region 20 (the area where the edited image 85 was displayed).

In step S139, the CPU 31
By deciding whether or not the user has selected the confirm button 84, that is, by recognizing whether or not the tip of the stylus pen 16d is placed on the confirm button 84, the decoration image 7
It is determined whether the arrangement position of No. 4 has been confirmed.

In step S139, the decoration image 74
When it is determined that the arrangement position of No. has not been determined, the process returns to step S135 and the subsequent processes are repeated.

That is, for example, as described above (similar to the first embodiment), the arrangement coordinates selected (calculated) in the process of step S137 are changed every time (each time the process of step S137 is performed). By doing so, during the graffiti processing (until the user selects the confirm button 84), the decoration image 74 moves as if along the contour line 71a of the user image 71, as shown in FIG. Is displayed.

In step S139, the decoration image 74
If it is determined that the placement position of the
Ends the graffiti processing and proceeds to the next step, that is, step S119 in FIG.

Returning to FIG. 10, in step S119, the printer 18 controls the CPU 31 to perform a scribble process (process of step S118) on the printed image (currently displayed in the center of the display portion 20). Image)
Is printed on the sticker sheet. The sticker sheet printed by the printer 18 is discharged from the photo discharge port 21 and provided to the user.

When the print image is printed (step S11)
9 is completed), the CPU 31 causes the step S1
20, it is determined whether or not the power switch 27 is turned off, and if it is determined that the power switch 27 is not turned off, step S
At 121, the monitoring by the CCD camera 14 is terminated, the process returns to step S111, and the subsequent processes are repeated. That is, until the next user inserts a coin, the CP
U31 waits for the processing.

If it is determined in step S120 that the power switch 27 has been turned off, then the CPU 31
Ends the processing.

The program for executing the series of processes described above is installed from a network or a recording medium. As shown in FIG. 2, this recording medium is distributed in order to provide the program to the owner of the image printing apparatus 1 and the like separately from the apparatus body, and the program is recorded in the drive 39. Magnetic disk 51 (including floppy disk), optical disk 52 (CD-ROM (Compact D
isk-Read Only Memory), DVD (Digital Versatile Disk)
Is included), a magneto-optical disk 53 (including MD (Mini-Disk)), or a package medium including a semiconductor memory 54, etc., and is provided to the user in a state of being pre-installed in the apparatus main body. , A ROM 32 in which a program is recorded, a hard disk included in the storage unit 37, and the like.

In the present specification, the steps for writing the program recorded on the recording medium are not limited to the processes performed in time series in the order described, but are not necessarily performed in time series. It also includes processing executed in parallel or individually.

[0231]

As described above, according to the image printing apparatus and method and the program of the present invention, the image of the user is extracted from the images within the captured range, and the extracted image of the user, A first combined image is generated by combining the image with a predetermined base image set in advance. Furthermore, the contour of the extracted user image is detected, and a predetermined decoration image set in advance is placed at a predetermined position on the contour of the detected user image in the generated first composite image. Deploy. Then, the arranged decoration image and the generated first combined image are combined to generate the second combined image, which is printed, so that it is possible to shoot with a playfulness and is rich in individuality. The image can be easily provided.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an arrangement of a configuration example of an image printing apparatus to which a first embodiment of the present invention is applied.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration example of the image printing apparatus of FIG.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating processing of the image printing apparatus in FIG.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating details of a combined image generation / display process in step S16 of FIG.

5 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a decoration style table used in the image printing apparatus of FIG.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a first composite image example generated by the image printing apparatus of FIG.

7 is a diagram showing a second example of a composite image generated by the image printing apparatus of FIG.

8 is a flowchart illustrating an ID detection process of the image printing apparatus of FIG. 1 in which a print medium unit to which the present invention is applied is mounted.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an arrangement of a configuration example of an image printing apparatus to which a second embodiment of the present invention is applied.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a process of the image printing apparatus of FIG.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating details of graffiti processing in step S118 of FIG.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on a display part in the graffiti process of step S118 of FIG.

[Explanation of symbols]

1 image printing device, 14 CCD camera, 15 display device, 16 Input section, 18 printers, 19 Main controller, 20 display parts, 23 Sticker paper unit, 24 ID tags, 25 sticker paper, 26 ID tag reader / writer, 31 CPU 32 ROM, 33 RAM, 37 memory, 39 Drive, 61 decorative style table, 71 user image, 72 background image, 73 first composite image, 74 decorative images, 75 second composite image, an contour point

Front page continuation (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification code FI theme code (reference) H04N 5/222 H04N 5/222 Z 5C052 5/76 5/76 E 5C053 5/91 5/91 H 5C076 F term (reference) ) 2C087 AA09 AA13 AB01 BA03 BA07 BB20 BD07 CA02 CB20 2H104 AA19 BC18 BC48 5B021 AA30 LA01 LE00 PP08 5B057 AA11 CA08 CA12 CA16 CB08 CB16 CC01 CE08 CH08 5AF05 FA04 FA02 FA04 FA04 FA04 FA02 FA06 FA02 FA03 FA06 FA02 FA03 FA06 FA02 FA03 FA03 FA03 FA02 FA03 FA03 FA02 FA03 FA03 FA02 FA03 FA03 FA02 FA03 FA03 FA02 FA03 FA02 FA03 FA02 FA03 FA02 FA03 FA02 FA03 FA02 FA03 FA02 FA03 FA03 FA06 LA06 5C076 AA13 BA06

Claims (16)

[Claims] 1. A photographing means for photographing a user, an extracting means for extracting an image of the user among images within a photographing range photographed by the photographing means, and an image of the user extracted by the extracting means. Detecting means for detecting the contour of the image, arranging means for arranging a predetermined decorative image set in advance at a predetermined position on the contour of the image of the user detected by the detecting means, and arranging by the arranging means. An image printing apparatus, comprising: a printing unit that prints a composite image of the decorated decoration image and the image within the shooting range shot by the shooting unit. 2. A first generation unit that generates a first combined image by combining the image of the user extracted by the extraction unit and a predetermined base image set in advance, and the first generation unit. By combining the first combined image generated by the first generating unit and the preset decoration image,
A second generating unit configured to generate a second combined image; and the arranging unit detecting the detecting unit in the first combining image generated by the first generating unit. The decoration image is arranged at a predetermined position on the contour of the image of the user, and the second generation unit combines the first combined image and the decoration image arranged by the arrangement unit. The image printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second composition image is generated, and the printing unit prints the second composition image generated by the second generation unit. 3. The image processing apparatus further comprises calculation means for calculating coordinates corresponding to the predetermined position on the contour of the image of the user, wherein the arranging means calculates the coordinates based on the coordinates calculated by the calculation means. The image printing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the decorative image is arranged. 4. Display means for displaying an image, first display control means for displaying the second composite image on the display means, and when it is determined that a predetermined condition is satisfied, immediately before or immediately after the determination. And further comprising a confirmation unit that confirms the second composite image displayed on the display unit by the first display control unit as a print image to be printed by the printing unit, and the determination unit prints the print image. Until the image is confirmed, the photographing means continuously photographs the user, the extracting means extracts the image of the user at a predetermined sampling time, and the first display control means, Each time a new image of the user is extracted by the extraction means, the display of the display means is updated to the second composite image newly generated by the second generation means. Image printing apparatus according to claim 3 that. 5. A confirmation signal input means for inputting a signal to confirm the print image, and a case where the signal is inputted by the confirmation signal input means,
Based on the time counting means for starting the time counting and the time counting means, the remaining time up to a preset predetermined time is calculated, and the remaining time up to the calculated predetermined time is displayed. A second display control means for displaying on the means, wherein the determining means determines that the predetermined condition is satisfied when the predetermined time is timed by the timekeeping means. 4. The image printing device according to item 4. 6. Storage means for storing a plurality of the decoration images, and setting and setting the predetermined decoration image arranged by the arrangement means from the plurality of decoration images stored in the storage means. Setting means for setting a decoration style of the predetermined decoration image, and processing means for processing the predetermined decoration image set by the setting means, based on the decoration style set by the setting means, The image printing apparatus according to claim 4 or 5, further comprising: an arrangement unit that arranges the predetermined decoration image processed by the processing unit. 7. The setting means sets at least one of the decoration styles among a plurality of decoration styles such as the number of arranged decoration images, size, rotation angle, and transparency. 6. The image printing device according to item 6. 8. The image printing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the setting unit sets a multiple of 90 degrees as the rotation angle of the decoration image. 9. The setting means sets a moving direction and a moving distance of the predetermined position on the contour of the image of the user as the decoration style, and the computing means uses the extracting means to newly create the user. Every time an image of is extracted, the predetermined position on the contour of the image of the user is moved from the predetermined position set last time to the movement set by the setting means along the contour of the user. 9. The image printing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the image is updated to a position moved by the moving distance in the direction. 10. The storage means further stores a plurality of the decoration styles, and the plurality of decoration images and the plurality of decoration styles stored in the storage means are displayed on the display means as a sample. And a sample display control unit that controls the sample display control unit to correspond to the decoration image and the decoration style selected by the user among the plurality of decoration images and the plurality of decoration style samples displayed on the display unit. Selection signal inputting means for inputting respective signals to be set, the setting means sets the predetermined decoration image arranged by the arranging means based on the signal input by the selection signal inputting means. Along with, the decoration style of the set predetermined decoration image is set. An image printing apparatus according to claim 1. 11. The decoration image is an image group, and the arranging unit selects one image selected from the predetermined image group according to a predetermined rule as the predetermined image on the contour of the image of the user. The image printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image printing apparatus is arranged at the position. 12. A printing medium on which the second composite image is printed by the printing unit, the reading unit reading identification information for identifying the mounted printing medium, and a reading result by the reading unit. The image printing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a print control unit that controls printing on the print medium based on the above. 13. The image printing apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the print medium is a sticker. 14. The storage medium for storing the print medium on which the second composite image is printed by the printing means, and holding the identification information read by the reading means. A print media unit for use with the described image printing device. 15. An image printing method of an image printing apparatus, comprising a photographing step of photographing a user, and an extracting step of extracting the image of the user from the images within the photographing range photographed by the processing of the photographing step. A detection step of detecting the contour of the image of the user extracted by the processing of the extraction step; and a preset position at a predetermined position on the contour of the image of the user detected by the processing of the detection step. An arrangement step of arranging a predetermined decoration image that is present, a printing step of printing a composite image of the decoration image arranged by the processing of the arrangement step and the image within the photographing range photographed by the processing of the photographing step An image printing method comprising: 16. A program to be executed by a computer for controlling an image printing apparatus, comprising a photographing step of photographing a user, and an image of the user among the images within the photographing range photographed by the processing of the photographing step. An extraction step of extracting, a detection step of detecting the contour of the image of the user extracted by the processing of the extraction step, and a predetermined position on the contour of the image of the user detected by the processing of the detection step, An arrangement step of arranging a predetermined decoration image set in advance, a combination image of the decoration image arranged by the processing of the arrangement step, and an image within the photographing range photographed by the processing of the photographing step, A program that causes a computer to execute a printing step for printing.