JP2004015585A - Device and method for printing moving image and computer program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a moving image printing device that can confirm moving images even when the device has an inexpensive configuration. <P>SOLUTION: In this moving image printing device which performs printing based on streaming data composed of many continuous frame images, a CPU 10 extracts a plurality of temporally discrete I-frame images from the streaming data. The extracted I-frame images are printed in a list by means of a printing section 21. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a moving image printing apparatus, a moving image printing method, and a computer program for printing based on, for example, streaming data in the MPEG format.
[0002]
[Prior art]
2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, as an infrastructure of the Internet, an ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line), a CATV (Cable Television) network, and an FTTH (Fiber to the Home) have been expanded to provide a broadband connection environment. Under such a broadband connection environment, moving image data having a relatively large data amount can be reproduced with almost no waiting time while downloading, so-called streaming distribution is possible.
[0003]
Typically, moving image data as streaming data is compressed by the MPEG method and placed on a server on the Internet. The moving image data of the MPEG system is composed of a large number of temporally continuous frame images. The frame image is an I-frame image (Intra Picture) that has been subjected to spatial compression alone without obtaining a difference from another frame image, and a P-frame image that has been subjected to motion compensation in only one direction by taking a difference from the I-frame image. (Predictive Picture) and a B-frame image (Bidirectionally Predictive Picture) obtained by performing a motion compensation in both directions between the I-frame image and the P-frame image to obtain a difference, and compressed. A personal computer connected to the Internet restores I, P, and B frame images while receiving moving image data in MPEG format by buffering, and reproduces these in chronological order to form a series of moving images on a screen. Can be displayed.
[0004]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
By the way, recently, home-use facsimile machines that can be directly connected to the Internet without going through a personal computer or the like are being accepted. It is considered that it is technically possible to directly display a moving image by receiving streaming data with such a facsimile apparatus.
[0005]
However, in order to directly display a moving image, a large-capacity memory for a buffer, a decoder circuit for restoring a compressed image, and a relatively large display panel for displaying a moving image must be provided. In other words, since it is not practical to adopt these apparatus configurations for a facsimile apparatus in terms of cost performance and the like, there has been a demand for a facsimile apparatus that can confirm a moving image while employing an inexpensive apparatus configuration.
[0006]
The present invention has been proposed in view of the above points, and provides a moving image printing apparatus, a moving image printing method, and a computer program which can check a moving image even with an inexpensive apparatus configuration. The purpose is to:
[0007]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to achieve the above object, a moving image printing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention is a moving image printing apparatus that performs printing based on moving image data composed of a large number of continuous frame images, A frame image extracting means for extracting a plurality of temporally discrete frame images from data, and a printing means for printing the plurality of frame images extracted by the frame image extracting means.
[0008]
According to such a moving image printing apparatus, it is not necessary to process all the frame images included in the moving image data, and only a frame image of one frame per frame which is temporally discrete is extracted and automatically printed. Therefore, the moving image can be confirmed as a frame-feed still image from the print result without using a complicated and expensive device configuration for displaying the moving image.
[0009]
A moving image printing apparatus according to a second aspect of the present invention is the moving image printing apparatus according to the first aspect, wherein the moving image data is streaming data in a predetermined moving image compression format, and The image extracting means extracts only a specific frame image which has been compressed independently at regular time intervals while receiving the streaming data and for composing the streaming data.
[0010]
According to such a moving image printing apparatus, in addition to the effect of the moving image printing apparatus according to claim 1, for example, when receiving streaming data in the MPEG format as a predetermined moving image compression format, the streaming data in the MPEG format is received. , Only a specific I frame image can be extracted and printed.
[0011]
Furthermore, a moving image printing apparatus according to a third aspect of the present invention is the moving image printing apparatus according to the second aspect, wherein the frame image extracting unit restores the frame image as the specific frame image is received. On the other hand, a frame image other than a specific frame image is discarded without being restored.
[0012]
According to such a moving image printing apparatus, in addition to the effect of the moving image printing apparatus according to claim 2, for example, decoding for restoring a P frame image or a B frame image included in MPEG format streaming data is performed. There is no need to perform any processing, and printing can be performed with as little waiting time as possible while providing the minimum necessary hardware and software for restoring only I-frame images.
[0013]
A moving image printing apparatus according to a fourth aspect of the present invention is the moving image printing apparatus according to any one of the first to third aspects, wherein the printing means stores the plurality of frame images on one sheet. Print on
[0014]
According to such a moving image printing apparatus, in addition to the effect of the moving image printing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, the printing of a sheet is performed in comparison with the case where one frame image is printed on one sheet. Since there is no waste and the moving images are printed as a list of still images in a frame feed form on a sheet, the outline of the moving images can be grasped at a glance.
[0015]
Further, the moving image printing apparatus according to the fifth aspect of the present invention is the moving image printing apparatus according to the fourth aspect, wherein the number of frame images to be printed per sheet by the printing means is changed. Image number setting change means.
[0016]
According to such a moving image printing apparatus, in addition to the effect of the moving image printing apparatus according to claim 4, the number of frame images per sheet can be increased or decreased by the user changing the setting of the number of images. can do.
[0017]
A moving image printing apparatus according to a sixth aspect of the present invention is the moving image printing apparatus according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, wherein the plurality of frame images are externally connected to a computer or an image display apparatus. And a frame image transfer means for transferring the image to the frame.
[0018]
According to such a moving image printing apparatus, in addition to the effects of the moving image printing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, even if streaming data is received when printing cannot be performed due to, for example, out of paper, backup is performed. The frame image can be transferred to a computer or an image display device for monitoring or monitoring, and the frame image can be confirmed on the computer or the image display device.
[0019]
Further, a moving image printing apparatus according to the invention described in claim 7 is the moving image printing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the moving image printing apparatus is recorded in the moving image data together with the plurality of continuous frame images. Voice data conversion means for reading out the voice data converted into text data, and the printing means associates the text data obtained by the conversion with the voice text conversion means with the plurality of frame images. Print.
[0020]
According to such a moving image printing device, in addition to the effects of the moving image printing device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, audio data accompanying the frame image can be converted into text data, Characters based on the data can be printed as corresponding to each frame image.
[0021]
The moving image printing method according to the invention described in claim 8 is a moving image printing method for performing printing based on moving image data composed of a large number of continuous frame images. And a printing step of printing the plurality of frame images extracted in the frame image extracting step.
[0022]
According to such a moving image printing method, the same effect as that by the moving image printing apparatus according to the first aspect can be achieved.
[0023]
Further, the computer program according to the ninth aspect of the present invention is a computer program for causing a printing unit to print based on moving image data composed of a large number of continuous frame images. And causing the computer to execute a frame image extraction task for extracting the plurality of frame images and a printing task for causing the printing unit to print the plurality of frame images extracted by the frame image extraction task.
[0024]
According to such a computer program, for example, even in a system in which a printer having only a function as a printing unit is connected to a computer, the same effect as that of the moving image printing apparatus according to the first aspect can be achieved.
[0025]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
[0026]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram for explaining a moving image printing apparatus according to the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an appearance of the moving image printing apparatus.
[0027]
The moving image printing apparatus A shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 has an Internet connection function in addition to a printer, a scanner, a copy, a telephone, a facsimile function, and includes a splitter 30 and an ADSL modem 31 installed in a house. It is always connected to the Internet 1 via a broadband connection system. A personal computer B is connected to the moving image printing apparatus A. The streaming server C is a distribution source of so-called streaming data existing on the Internet 1, and manages and stores moving image data compressed by the MPEG method as streaming data.
[0028]
For example, when URL (Uniform Resource Locators) information indicating the location of the streaming data is input on the moving image printing apparatus A, the URL is transmitted via the ADSL modem 31, the splitter 30, the subscriber line indicated by the broken line, and the telephone exchange D. A request for streaming data (transmission request information) is sent to the streaming server C. Although the internal configuration of the telephone exchange D is not specifically shown, a request from the moving image printing apparatus A is transmitted to the Internet 1 via an MDF (Main Distributing Frame), a splitter in the office, and a router in the office. It is delivered to the streaming server C above. In response, the streaming server C delivers the target streaming data to the moving image printing apparatus A by following the same route in reverse.
[0029]
To describe a specific configuration, the moving image printing apparatus A includes a CPU 10 connected to a bus, an NCU (Network Control Unit) 11, a RAM 12, a modem 13, a ROM 14, an EEPROM 15, a gate array 16, a codec 17, and a DMA (Direct Memory). Access unit 18, a reading unit 20, a printing unit 21, an operation unit 22, a display unit 23, a NIC (Network Interface Card) 25, and a PC connection unit 26 connected to the gate array 16.
[0030]
The CPU 10 controls the operation of the entire moving image printing apparatus A. Incidentally, the CPU 10 is provided with an image processing function for partially restoring while receiving streaming data in the MPEG format, a voice / text conversion function for converting voice data included in the streaming data into text data, and the like. The NCU 11 is connected to a subscriber line via the splitter 30, and performs network control. The RAM 12 provides a work area for the CPU 10 and a storage area for various data. Specifically, the RAM 12 is provided with a FIFO (First In First Out) buffer area for temporarily storing received streaming data while processing the data, a data storage area for printing, and the like. The modem 13 modulates and demodulates facsimile data. The ROM 14 stores a control program for managing a series of tasks executed by the CPU 10 and the like. The EEPROM 15 stores various flags, setting information, and the like. By the way, in the EEPROM 15, URL information indicating the location of the streaming data is registered in advance together with the destination telephone number and the mail address. The gate array 16 exchanges various signals between the CPU 10 and each of the units 20 to 26. The codec 17 performs encoding and decoding of facsimile data. The DMA controller 18 directly controls reading and writing of data from and to the RAM 12 as a bus arbiter.
[0031]
The reading unit 20 includes an image sensor, an LED light source, and the like, and reads an image from a document or the like under the control of the CPU 10. The printing unit 21 performs printing under the control of the CPU 10 by, for example, an inkjet method. The operation unit 22 includes numeric keys 22A for inputting numbers and characters, display operation keys 22B for performing operations according to the display contents of the display unit 23, and function keys 22C for performing various other operations. Operation signals from the keys 22A, 22B, 22C are transmitted to the CPU 10 through the gate array 16. The function keys 22C include a moving image print start key for printing based on streaming data. The display unit 23 includes, for example, a liquid crystal screen of a relatively small number of lines display type, as shown in FIG. The NIC 25 is for connecting the moving image printing apparatus A to the LAN. In the present embodiment, the ADSL modem 31 is connected to the NIC 25. The PC connection unit 26 is used to connect the moving image printing apparatus A to a personal computer using, for example, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) cable.
[0032]
Although the specific configuration of the streaming server C is not shown, a large-capacity hard disk for storing streaming data having a relatively large data amount and a mechanism for efficiently delivering streaming data are provided. Except for the above, it is not physically different from the main body configuration of a personal computer or the like.
[0033]
Next, the main points will be described.
[0034]
FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a general structure of moving image data compressed by the MPEG method. The uncompressed moving image data indicated by V0 to V9 in this figure has a structure in which a large number of continuous still images (frame images) are arranged in chronological order at extremely short time intervals. Are compressed independently of each other, the amount of data becomes enormous. Therefore, according to the moving image compression method of the MPEG method, each of the still images V0 to V9 before the compression is composed of an I frame image, a P frame image, and a B frame image. Compressed to one.
[0035]
For example, as shown in FIG. 3, still images V0 and V9 as a single unit constituting moving image data can be used alone as they are without calculating a difference from other still images, such as DCT (Discrete Cosine Transform) or Huffman code. It is generated as an I frame image by being compressed by the conversion. Further, the still images V3 and V6 are generated as P-frame images in which motion compensation is performed in only one direction by taking a difference from the still images V0 and V9 that are the basis of the I-frame image by inter-frame prediction. Still other still images such as V1 and V2 are generated as B-frame images by performing motion compensation bidirectionally between still images V0 and V9 and V3 and V6, which show scenes before and after the scene, and taking the difference. Is done. The moving image data of the MPEG format including the I, P, and B frame images is restored as a series of still images by reconstructing each of the I, P, and B frame images through a procedure reverse to the compression procedure. Plays back in chronological order. Although not specifically shown, the moving image data in the MPEG format includes audio data compressed along with each of the I, P, and B frame images and reproduction time information indicating a reproduction time. Based on the reproduction time information, a sound that matches the timing of the moving image is output.
[0036]
The moving image data of the MPEG format including the I, P, and B frame images described above is stored on the hard disk of the streaming server C. Upon receiving the request from the moving image printing apparatus A, the streaming server C divides the moving image data in the MPEG format into packets according to a communication protocol based on UDP (User Datagram Protocol), and transmits the packets to the moving image printing apparatus A as streaming data. According to the UDP communication protocol, a session is not established between the streaming server C and the moving image printing apparatus A, and error correction and retransmission such as TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) are not performed. Even if a packet is lost, the streaming data is smoothly exchanged with almost no waiting time ignoring the packet.
[0037]
The technical features of the present embodiment are summarized in the following points.
[0038]
That is, in the moving image printing apparatus A that has received the streaming data in the MPEG format as a packet, the CPU 10 extracts the data from each packet, and temporarily stores the extracted data in the FIFO buffer area of the RAM 12 in the order of the reproduction time. Then, the CPU 10 reads the data from the FIFO buffer area at a predetermined timing, but extracts the I-frame image only when the read data is the I-frame image, and expands (restores) the I-frame image according to the MPEG method. The still image obtained as a single unit by expanding the I frame image is further expanded immediately before the data processing timing by the CPU 10 measuring the data processing timing at predetermined time intervals (for example, 30 seconds). Only the data is transferred to the print data storage area of the RAM 12. At this time, the still image transferred to the print data storage area is reduced to a predetermined data size. Finally, when the free space in the print data storage area is exhausted, all the still images stored in the print data storage area are read out and printed on one sheet as a thumbnail list image. .
[0039]
In short, the CPU 10 of the moving image printing apparatus A has a function of extracting a plurality of I frame images discrete at a certain time interval from the streaming data in the MPEG format and developing (restoring) only the I frame images. , P, and B frame images are discarded to omit the expansion function based on motion compensation, thereby simplifying the circuit configuration and control program of the CPU 10. Also, not only the P and B frame images but also the I frame images which do not match the data processing timing are not stored in the print data storage area. It is possible to respond. In the moving image printing apparatus A, moving images based on the streaming data are not displayed. For example, a large number of still images extracted at intervals of 30 seconds are printed in a list on one sheet. The user who sees the result of the printing can grasp the outline of the moving image transmitted as the streaming data from the still images arranged in chronological order.
[0040]
Next, a detailed description will be given with reference to flowcharts and the like.
[0041]
FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 are flowcharts illustrating a procedure for printing a moving image based on streaming data. First, as shown in FIG. 4, when the moving image printing start key is pressed by the user (S1: YES), the CPU 10 displays a prompt for inputting URL information indicating the distribution source of the streaming data on the display unit 23. It is displayed (S2).
[0042]
If the user inputs URL information accordingly (S3: YES), the CPU 10 sends request information for requesting transmission of streaming data to the streaming server C designated by the URL information (S3: YES). S4). As a result, the streaming server C, which has received the request information, transmits the streaming data specified by the URL information to the moving image printing apparatus A in packets. It is easiest to input URL information by specifying a URL that has been registered in the EEPROM 15 in advance, but a character string corresponding to the URL information may be directly input by key.
[0043]
When receiving the streaming data from the streaming server C (S5: YES), the CPU 10 sequentially stores the streaming data received by the packets in the FIFO buffer area of the RAM 12 while rearranging the data in the reproduction order (S6). At this time, the streaming data is temporarily stored in the FIFO buffer area as packet data including the data body (payload) compressed by the MPEG method.
[0044]
Next, as shown in FIG. 5, the CPU 10 resets the time stamp timer and clears the print data storage area of the RAM 12 (S11). Here, the time stamp is for specifying a time at each execution time point when executing predetermined data processing at intervals of, for example, 30 seconds. The timer is used to obtain a time stamp using a real-time clock function of the CPU 10 or the like.
[0045]
Then, the streaming data is read out from the FIFO buffer area in chronological order. The CPU 10 extracts only the I frame image from the streaming data and expands the extracted I frame image to generate the original still image (S12). That is, the I, P, and B frame images included in the streaming data in the MPEG format are temporarily stored by buffering at the time of reception, but the P and B frame images are discarded as unnecessary information without being expanded. It is done. On the other hand, the I frame image is extracted and expanded at very short time intervals and restored to the original still image.
[0046]
As described above, the original still image is generated from the I-frame image, but only when it is time to acquire the time stamp (S13: YES), the CPU 10 determines whether the still image obtained immediately before and the time stamp have been acquired. Are stored in the print data storage area of the RAM 12 (S14). That is, even the original still image generated by expanding the I-frame image is discarded without being used even if the still image does not match the time stamp acquisition timing. Note that the still image stored in the print data storage area is reduced in advance to a prescribed size.
[0047]
When the free space of the print data storage area falls below a predetermined level (S15: YES), the CPU 10 reads out all the still images and the time stamps stored in the print data storage area at that time, and Is printed on one sheet of paper (S16). Note that, in addition to the condition of the free space of the print data storage area, printing is also started when the reception of streaming data is completed and there is no more data in the FIFO buffer area.
[0048]
FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the content printed on one sheet of paper. As shown in FIG. 6 as an example, on one sheet of paper P, every 30 seconds from streaming data. The extracted still images and the time stamp corresponding to each still image are printed as a print result. A user who sees such a print result cannot extract the streaming data at a certain time interval such as a 30-second interval and prints the list-printed still image even though the streaming data cannot be confirmed as a temporally continuous moving image. It is possible to check the image, and thereby to grasp the outline of the entire moving image.
[0049]
When all the still images and the time stamp are read from the print data storage area and printing is completed, the CPU 10 clears the print data storage area (S17). During the printing process, streaming data is also received concurrently.
[0050]
Finally, when the reception of all the streaming data is completed (S18: YES), the CPU 10 executes the same procedure as S12 to S14, not particularly shown in the flowchart, and thereafter, the print data storage area Is read out and printed on paper (S19), and the moving image printing process ends. If there is no remaining still image or the like in the print data storage area, the moving image printing process ends without executing the printing process.
[0051]
If the streaming data is being received in S18 (S18: NO), the CPU 10 returns to S12 to extract and expand only the I frame image from the received streaming data.
[0052]
In S15, when the free space of the print data storage area is not below the predetermined level and there is room (S15: NO), the CPU 10 returns to S12 and performs a series of processing.
[0053]
In S13, when it is not time to acquire the time stamp (S13: NO), the CPU 10 returns to S12 and performs a series of processing. That is, in this case, even the image extracted and expanded as the I frame image is discarded.
[0054]
If the streaming data has not been received in S5 (S5: NO), the CPU 10 displays an error message to that effect on the display unit 23, and ends the moving image printing process.
[0055]
If the input of the URL information is not determined in S3 (S3: NO), the process returns to S2 so that the prompt is displayed on the display unit 23 until the input is determined.
[0056]
In S1, when the moving image printing start key is not pressed (S1: NO), the CPU 10 does not execute the moving image printing process until the moving image printing start key is pressed by the user.
[0057]
Therefore, according to the moving image printing apparatus A according to the present embodiment, it is not necessary to perform data processing on all of the I, P, and B frame images included in the streaming data in the MPEG format, and for example, they are scattered every 30 seconds. A specific I-frame image is extracted and developed from the streaming data and is automatically printed. Therefore, even if a complicated and expensive device configuration such as an MPEG decoder or a large display panel for displaying a moving image based on the streaming data is not provided, the printing result of the still image corresponding to the I frame image is converted into the streaming data. The content of the sent moving image can be checked in a broad outline.
[0058]
In addition, since P-frame images and B-frame images included in the streaming data are discarded without performing data processing, the still images can be listed by the data processing of I-frame images alone without causing a waiting time as much as possible. Can be printed.
[0059]
Further, since a large number of still images are printed in a list on one sheet, the running cost can be reduced without wasting paper as compared with a case where one still image is simply printed on one sheet.
[0060]
In addition, as an operation mode, a system configuration in which a server that transmits a video captured by a surveillance camera in a remote place as streaming data in real time, and the moving image printing apparatus A receives streaming data from the server is configured. Can also be adopted.
[0061]
Next, another embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.
[0062]
FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a part of a moving image print processing procedure according to another embodiment. Note that the moving image printing apparatus according to the other embodiment basically has the configuration shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, and most of the printing processing procedure is the same as the procedure shown in FIG. 4. These points are denoted by the same reference numerals in FIG. Incidentally, the flowchart of FIG. 7 is a continuation of the flowchart of FIG.
[0063]
As shown in FIG. 7, when the CPU 10 resets the timer for the time stamp and clears the print data storage area (S20), the CPU 10 reads out the streaming data from the FIFO buffer area in chronological order while reading the I, P, and B frame images. All and audio data are extracted and expanded (S21).
[0064]
Then, the CPU 10 transfers the moving image including the I, P, and B frame images and the audio data to the personal computer B (S22). This allows the personal computer B to view a moving image or a sound based on the streaming data captured via the moving image printing apparatus A. That is, in the moving image printing process according to another embodiment, all data such as I, P, and B frame images and audio data included in MPEG format streaming data are used.
[0065]
Further, only when it is time to acquire the time stamp (S23: YES), the CPU 10 stores the still image and the time stamp obtained by expanding the I-frame image immediately before that in the print data storage area of the RAM 12. It is stored (S24). That is, since only the still images corresponding to the I frame images are stored in the print data storage area, the size of the print data storage area is smaller than when all the I, P, B frame images and the audio data are stored. Can be relatively small.
[0066]
When the free space of the print data storage area falls below the predetermined level (S25: YES), the CPU 10 performs the same processing as S16 and S17 in FIG. 5 (S26 and S27), and the reception of all streaming data is completed. When completed (S28: YES), the CPU 10 executes the same procedure as S21 to S24 described above, not particularly shown in the flowchart, and stores the print data while transferring the moving image and the audio data to the personal computer B. The remaining still images and time stamps stored in the area are read out and printed on paper (S29). After that, the CPU 10 ends the moving image printing process.
[0067]
Therefore, according to the moving image print processing according to the other embodiment, a print result as shown in FIG. 6 is obtained in the same manner as in the above-described embodiment, and at the same time, the personal computer B manages the moving image and audio based on the streaming data. And watch it. In short, even if streaming data is received in a state where printing is not possible due to lack of paper or ink shortage, moving images and audio cannot be confirmed at all based on the transmitted streaming data, and personal data for backup and monitoring The moving image and the sound can be confirmed using the computer B.
[0068]
Further, another embodiment will be described.
[0069]
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a part of a moving image print processing procedure according to another embodiment. Note that the moving image printing apparatus according to the other embodiment also basically has a configuration as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, and the printing processing procedure is mostly the same as the procedure shown in FIG. These points are denoted by the same reference numerals in the figure, and description thereof is omitted. Incidentally, the flowchart of FIG. 8 is a continuation of the flowchart of FIG.
[0070]
As shown in FIG. 8, when the CPU 10 resets the timer for the time stamp and clears the print data storage area (S30), the CPU 10 reads out the streaming data from the FIFO buffer area in chronological order and attaches the I frame image to the front and back of the I frame image. A part of the audio data to be extracted and expanded (S31).
[0071]
Then, the CPU 10 converts the audio data extracted and expanded from the streaming data into text data (S32). As a result, audio data including a temporal element is handled by the CPU 10 as static character code-based data.
[0072]
Further, only when it is time to acquire the time stamp (S33: YES), the CPU 10 extracts the still image obtained by expanding the I-frame image and the text data obtained by converting the audio data immediately before that. Is stored in the print data storage area of the RAM 12 (S34). That is, in addition to the still image corresponding to the I frame image, only the character code base data having a relatively small data amount is stored in the print data storage area. The size of the print data storage area can be reduced as compared with the case of storing the data itself.
[0073]
Then, when the free space of the print data storage area falls below the predetermined level (S35: YES), the CPU 10 performs the same processing as S16 and S17 in FIG. 5 (S36 and S37), and the reception of all streaming data is completed. When completed (S38: YES), the CPU 10 executes the same procedure as S31 to S34 described above, which is not particularly shown in the flowchart, and executes the remaining still image and text data stored in the print data storage area. It is read and printed on paper (S39). After that, the CPU 10 ends the moving image printing process.
[0074]
Therefore, according to the moving image printing process according to the other embodiment, a printing result as described below with reference to FIG. 9 is obtained, unlike the printing result as illustrated in FIG.
[0075]
FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a print result according to another embodiment. As shown as an example in FIG. 9, on one sheet of paper P, extracted from streaming data at intervals of 30 seconds. A still image and character information corresponding to each still image are printed as a print result. This character information is obtained by converting audio data for a certain period of time, which is simultaneously output as audio, into text data, assuming that the corresponding still image is reproduced as a moving image. That is, the character information shown corresponding to the still image is likely to include the meaning content related to the still image. From this point, even if the user who sees the print result of the still image and the character information cannot view the moving image and the sound included in the streaming data as being temporally continuous, the user may not be able to view the list printed still image. It is possible to grasp the outline of the entire moving image by referring to not only the image but also the character information.
[0076]
Further, another embodiment will be described.
[0077]
FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a part of a moving image print processing procedure according to another embodiment. Note that the moving image printing apparatus according to the other embodiment also basically has a configuration as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, and the first half of the printing processing procedure is the same as the procedure shown in FIG. 4. These points are denoted by the same reference numerals in FIG. Incidentally, the flowchart of FIG. 10 is a continuation of the flowchart of FIG.
[0078]
As shown in FIG. 10, the CPU 10 acquires reproduction time information from a header or the like of the received streaming data (S41). In the reproduction time information, for example, the reproduction time of streaming data related to a movie, a promotion video, or the like is described. It should be noted that, in streaming data relating to a video of a security camera, a video of a live broadcast, or the like, a reproduction time having a finite value is not described in the reproduction time information.
[0079]
If the reproduction time is finite (S42: YES), the CPU 10 causes the display unit 23 to display a screen for setting conditions regarding the print layout and the time stamp acquisition time interval (S43).
[0080]
FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram for describing a print layout and a time stamp acquisition time interval. As shown in the upper part of the figure, as print layouts that can be set by the user, layout types such as “image quality priority”, “standard”, “paper saving”, “maximum number of images”, and “single print” are prepared. ing. The image size and the number of images per sheet are fixed values for each layout type except “single-sheet printing”, while the maximum number of images (96 images) is set for the “single-sheet printing” layout type. The image size and the number of images per sheet are set to variable values so that a still image can be printed as much as possible.
[0081]
Further, as shown in the lower part of FIG. 11, a standard value is set for each time stamp acquisition time interval for each reproduction time, but this can be increased or decreased by a user through a setting operation. For example, when the reproduction time is 15 minutes in the layout type of "single print", if the time stamp acquisition time interval is a standard value (1 minute interval), the number of images per sheet is calculated as 15, and the result is In practice, a “standard” layout type that can support 15 images per sheet is automatically selected. However, if the user sets the time stamp acquisition time interval to a 30 second interval shorter than the standard value, one sheet The number of images per hit is calculated as 30, and a layout type of "sheet saving" capable of handling 30 images per sheet is automatically selected.
[0082]
By the way, in S42, when the reproduction time is not particularly described (S42: NO), that is, in the case of streaming data without time limit such as a video of a security camera or a video of a live broadcast, the CPU 10 sets the print start time and the print time. A screen for setting a condition regarding the end time is displayed on the display unit 23 (S45). When the print start time and the print end time are set, the CPU 10 can internally calculate the reproduction time from the time difference, and specifies the time stamp acquisition time interval from the reproduction time obtained as a calculation result. be able to. Note that, also in S45, the user may be able to set conditions regarding the print layout and the time stamp acquisition time interval.
[0083]
When the settings for the print layout and the time stamp acquisition time interval are determined as described above (S44: YES), the CPU 10 resets the time stamp timer and clears the print data storage area of the RAM 12 (S51). ). If the settings for the print layout and the time stamp acquisition time interval are not determined (S44: NO), the CPU 10 waits for the setting operation until the predetermined time elapses. If not performed, the process proceeds to S51 after setting the time stamp acquisition time interval to the standard value in the “standard” layout type.
[0084]
Then, the streaming data is read out from the FIFO buffer area in order of time, but the CPU 10 extracts only the I frame image from the streaming data and expands it to generate the original still image (S52).
[0085]
Thereafter, only when it is time to acquire a time stamp based on the time stamp acquisition time interval set in S43 (S53: YES), the CPU 10 stores the still image and the time stamp obtained immediately before that in the RAM 12 in the RAM 12. The data is stored in the print data storage area (S54).
[0086]
Then, the CPU 10 reads the still image and the time stamp stored in the print data storage area, and prints them on paper based on the print layout set in S43 (S56).
[0087]
Finally, when the printing of all the streaming data is completed (S58: YES), the CPU 10 ends the moving image printing process.
[0088]
Therefore, according to the moving image printing process according to another embodiment, the user changes the print layout and the time stamp acquisition time interval so that the number of images per sheet is continuously increased so as to be easily viewed. In order to give priority to the image quality, the number can be reduced, and the usability can be improved for the user.
[0089]
Note that the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments.
[0090]
The moving image printing apparatus A is always connected to the Internet 1 by ADSL, but may be always connected by a CATV network or FTTH. Further, the connection is not limited to the constant connection, but may be a dial-up connection.
[0091]
The moving image printing apparatus A is connected to a personal computer B, for example, and is connected to, for example, a display device or a VCR as a single unit, and transfers moving images or audio data to these display devices or a VCR. Is also good.
[0092]
When printing still images, each still image may be printed one by one on each sheet.
[0093]
As the printing method, in addition to the ink jet method, an electrophotographic method using toner as a printing material, a sublimation method using an ink ribbon, or a heat-sensitive method may be adopted.
[0094]
The moving image data may be sent as streaming data via the Internet 1 or may be sent directly from a personal computer B connected to the moving image printing apparatus A.
[0095]
As a modified example, a printer that has only a printing function and cannot be directly connected to the Internet may be connected to a personal computer, and the above-described moving image print processing program may be executed on the personal computer.
[0096]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the moving image printing apparatus of the first aspect, it is not necessary to process all the frame images included in the moving image data. Since the image is simply extracted and printed automatically, the moving image can be confirmed as a frame-feed still image from the print result without using a complicated and expensive device configuration for displaying the moving image.
[0097]
According to the moving image printing apparatus of the second aspect, in addition to the effect of the moving image printing apparatus of the first aspect, for example, streaming data in an MPEG format as a predetermined moving image compression format is directly received. In this case, only a specific I frame image can be extracted from the MPEG streaming data and printed.
[0098]
Further, according to the moving image printing apparatus of the invention described in claim 3, in addition to the effect of the moving image printing apparatus according to claim 2, for example, a P frame image or a B frame image included in MPEG format streaming data. It is not necessary to perform decoding processing for restoration, and printing can be performed with the minimum necessary hardware and software for restoring only an I-frame image and with as little waiting time as possible.
[0099]
According to the moving image printing apparatus of the invention described in claim 4, in addition to the effect of the moving image printing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, one frame image is printed on one sheet of paper. As compared with the case where the moving image is used, there is no waste of the sheet, and since the moving images are printed as a list of still images in a frame feed form on the sheet, the outline of the moving image can be grasped at a glance.
[0100]
Further, according to the moving image printing apparatus of the invention described in claim 5, in addition to the effect of the moving image printing apparatus according to claim 4, the user can change the setting of the number of images so that the number of frames per sheet is changed. The number of images can be increased or decreased.
[0101]
According to the moving image printing apparatus of the invention described in claim 6, in addition to the effect of the moving image printing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, streaming data can be output when printing cannot be performed due to, for example, paper exhaustion. , The frame image can be transferred to a computer or an image display device for backup or monitoring, and the frame image can be confirmed on the computer or the image display device.
[0102]
Further, according to the moving picture printing apparatus of the invention described in claim 7, in addition to the effect of the moving picture printing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, audio data accompanying the frame image is converted into text data. It can be converted and characters based on the text data can be printed as corresponding to each frame image.
[0103]
Further, according to the moving image printing method of the invention described in claim 8, it is possible to achieve the same effect as that by the moving image printing apparatus according to claim 1.
[0104]
According to the computer program of the ninth aspect of the invention, for example, even in a system in which a printer having only a function as a printing means is connected to a computer, the same effect as that of the moving image printing apparatus of the first aspect is obtained. Can be achieved.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram for explaining a moving image printing apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating an appearance of the moving image printing apparatus.
FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a general structure of moving image data compressed by the MPEG method.
FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a moving image print processing procedure based on streaming data.
FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a printing process procedure of a moving image based on streaming data.
FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the content printed on one sheet.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a part of a moving image print processing procedure according to another embodiment.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a part of a moving image print processing procedure according to another embodiment.
FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a print result according to another embodiment.
FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a part of a moving image print processing procedure according to another embodiment.
FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram for describing a print layout and a time stamp acquisition time interval.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 Internet
10 CPU (frame image extraction means, frame image transfer means, speech text conversion means)
11 NCU
12 RAM
13 Modem
14 ROM
15 EEPROM
16 Gate Array
17 CODEC (codec)
18 DMAC (DMA controller)
20 Reading unit
21 Printing unit (printing means)
22 Operation section
23 Display
25 NIC
26 PC connection
30 splitter
31 ADSL modem
A Moving image printing device
B telephone exchange office
C streaming server

Claims (9)

A moving image printing apparatus that performs printing based on moving image data including a large number of continuous frame images,
Frame image extracting means for extracting a plurality of temporally discrete frame images from the moving image data,
A moving image printing apparatus, comprising: printing means for printing a plurality of frame images extracted by the frame image extracting means. The moving image data is streaming data having a predetermined moving image compression format, and the frame image extracting unit receives the streaming data at regular time intervals and independently compresses the streaming data. The moving image printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein only the extracted specific frame image is extracted. 3. The moving image printing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the frame image extracting unit restores the specific frame image as it is received, and discards the non-specific frame image without restoring. The moving image printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the printing unit prints the plurality of frame images on one sheet. The moving image printing apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising an image number setting change unit configured to change a setting of the number of frame images printed per sheet by the printing unit. 6. The moving image printing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a frame image transfer unit configured to transfer the plurality of frame images to an externally connected computer or an image display device. Speech data recorded in the moving image data together with the plurality of continuous frame images is read, and speech text conversion means for converting the speech data into text data is provided. The moving image printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the text data obtained by the printing is printed in association with the plurality of frame images. A moving image printing method for performing printing based on moving image data including a large number of continuous frame images,
A frame image extracting step of extracting a plurality of temporally discrete frame images from the moving image data,
A printing step of printing a plurality of frame images extracted in the frame image extracting step. A computer program for causing a printing unit to print based on moving image data including a large number of continuous frame images,
A frame image extraction task of extracting a plurality of temporally discrete frame images from the moving image data,
A computer program for causing a computer to execute a print task for causing the printing unit to print a plurality of frame images extracted by the frame image extraction task.

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