JP2005038090A - Pen switch state detecting member, pen switch state detection method, photograph vending machine, automatic photograph sales method and pen switch state notification device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a pen switch state detecting member that is suited to notify the pen switch state of a touch pen in an input device. <P>SOLUTION: A holding member 201 as the pen switch state detecting member is formed with a hole 202 for the insertion of the touch pen 14 and positioned at a distance H1 from a tablet display 13. The hole diameter of the hole 202 is smaller than the largest diameter of the touch pen 14, and the distance H1 from the tablet display 13 is such a distance as keeps the tip of the touch pen 14 out of contact with the display 13 when the touch pen 14 is inserted in the hole 202 and held at a position whose a diameter matches the hole diameter and as remains in the detection range of the tablet display 13. A check on whether an input position is detected or not from the touch pen 14 held in the pen switch state detecting member reveals the pen switch state. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a pen switch state detection member, a pen switch state detection method, a photo vending machine, a photo vending method, and a pen switch state notification device, and in particular, to detect a pen switch state of a touch pen constituting an input device. The present invention relates to a pen switch state detecting member, a pen switch state detecting method, a photo vending machine, a photo vending method, and a pen switch state notifying device.
[0002]
[Prior art]
A touch pen is widely known as an input device for inputting information by touching a tablet display. An input device including such a touch pen is, for example, a photo vending machine that confirms receipt of a charge, inputs a photographed image of a subject, prints and provides the input image, as disclosed in, for example, Patent Document 1 Images (such as so-called Purikura (R)) and images from sticker creation devices that input images from digital cameras, mobile phones with shooting functions, etc., process the input images, print them on stickers, etc. It is attached to the input device for inputting instruction information and images.
[0003]
The touch pen is paired with a tablet display to constitute an input device. An input device using a touch pen is a device that inputs information by detecting the position on the touched tablet display. Depending on the method of detecting the touched position, the resistance film method, electromagnetic induction method, There are input devices that employ an electric coupling method.
[0004]
The resistance film method is a method of detecting a position when an electrode normally separated by a spacer comes into contact when pressed by a finger or a touch pen and electricity flows. In addition, when the tablet display is touched with a dedicated touch pen that generates a magnetic field by including a coil or the like inside the electromagnetic induction method, the electromagnetic energy is received from the touch pen within the detection range on the tablet display side, and the magnetic field is changed. This is a method of detecting and detecting a touched position. Furthermore, the electrostatic coupling method is a method of detecting the position of the touch pen by a change in potential due to electrostatic coupling between the transparent electrode scanning in the X direction and the Y direction on the tablet display and the touch pen in the detection range. is there.
[0005]
In addition, a touch pen used in an input device employing the above-described electromagnetic induction method or electrostatic coupling method includes a pen shaft that moves in a telescopic direction by a spring or rubber at the tip of a cylindrical case. When a display or the like is pressed with a touch pen, the pen axis moves in a contracting direction, and the magnetic field and potential that can be detected by the input device change. The changed state is turned on by the pen switch to notify the image input device of the state of the pen switch.
[0006]
On the other hand, when the pen switch is turned on, the image input device accepts the coordinates of the touch pen informed at the same time and performs control such as image input.
[0007]
The image input device described above may have a maintenance mode for checking the operation of the input device such as the touch pen described above. This maintenance mode needs to be activated by opening a locked door by a store clerk or the like and pressing a dedicated maintenance button provided inside the apparatus.
[0008]
[Patent Document 1]
JP 2002-10249 A
[0009]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, when the touch pen has the above-mentioned structure, foreign matter such as dust and dirt from the tip of the touch pen, or deterioration due to movement of the pen shaft in the expansion / contraction direction, damage due to impact or vibration, etc. The pen switch may remain on. For this reason, if the pen switch remains on even when the touch pen is not touched, the touch pen does not touch the tablet display in the case of the input device adopting the electromagnetic induction method or the electrostatic coupling method described above. When it is within the detection range, there is a case where an input of the touch pen is erroneously detected and a detection signal is transmitted to the main device. As a result, there is a problem that the operability of the input operation with the touch pen is lowered.
[0010]
More specifically, for example, when the above-mentioned failure occurs in the touch pen when the main unit such as the image input device performs a process of drawing a line at a position touched with the touch pen, FIG. As shown, an unintended line is drawn when the touch pen is within the detection range even though it is away from the tablet display. In such a case, since the input operation cannot be performed with the touch pen at all, the user is given an impression that the device has poor operability, and the operation rate of the device may be reduced.
[0011]
Furthermore, such a problem does not occur when the touch pen is outside the detection range, such as when an input operation using the touch pen is not performed. is there. In other words, the conventional device has no means for confirming the state of the pen switch of the touch pen other than the above-described maintenance mode, so the user or the store clerk cannot easily know the trouble of the touch pen, and the touch pen failure is left unattended. Will be. For this reason, the user continues to use the defective touch pen, and there is a problem that the user may not be able to provide a satisfactory game.
[0012]
The present invention has been made in view of such problems, and has high operability by providing means for easily confirming the pen switch state of a touch pen in an input device employing an electromagnetic induction method or an electrostatic coupling method. It is an object of the present invention to provide a pen switch state detection member, a pen switch state detection method, a photo vending machine, a photo vending method, and a pen switch state notification device.
[0013]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to achieve the above object, according to an aspect of the present invention, the pen switch state detecting member includes a touch pen that is turned on by pushing a pen shaft at a tip portion, and the touch pen is within a detection range. A member used in an input device including a detection unit that detects the presence of a touch pen at a certain time, the touch pen being within a detection range, and a predetermined distance at which the tip of the touch pen does not touch the detection unit Keep and hold.
[0014]
Moreover, it is preferable that the pen switch state detection member further includes a protection member that protects the touch pen from being damaged by contact at least at a position where the pen switch is in contact with the touch pen.
[0015]
In addition, the pen switch state detection member includes a holding surface that holds a touch pen that is substantially parallel to the detection unit, in which a hole having a diameter smaller than the maximum diameter of the touch pen is drilled, and the distance between the detection unit and the holding surface is It is preferable that the touch pen is within a detection range, and the distance is such that the tip of the touch pen inserted and held in the hole does not touch the detection unit.
[0016]
According to another aspect of the present invention, a pen switch state detection method includes: a touch pen whose pen switch state is turned on by pressing a pen shaft at a tip; a tablet display that detects the position of the touch pen within a detection range; A method of detecting a pen switch state of an input device that determines the position of the touch pen detected when the pen switch state is on as an input position and outputs the input position to the main unit, and is within a detection range. Then, a pen switch state detection member that holds the touch pen while maintaining a predetermined distance at which the tip of the touch pen does not touch the tablet display is installed on the tablet display to detect the pen switch state.
[0017]
According to another aspect of the present invention, a pen switch state detection method includes: a touch pen whose pen switch state is turned on by pressing a pen shaft at a tip; a tablet display that detects the position of the touch pen within a detection range; A method of detecting a pen switch state of an input device that determines the position of the touch pen detected when the pen switch state is on as an input position and outputs the input position to the main unit, and is within a detection range. The touch pen is located within a detection range of the detection unit, and the tip of the touch pen is not touching the detection unit while maintaining a predetermined distance. The pen switch state detection member to be held is installed in a place other than the tablet display to detect the pen switch state.
[0018]
According to still another aspect of the present invention, a pen switch state detection method includes a touch pen that turns on a pen switch state by pushing a pen shaft at a tip, and a tablet display that detects the position of the touch pen within a detection range. A method of detecting a pen switch state of an input device that determines a position of a touch pen detected when the pen switch state is on as an input position and outputs the input position to a main body device, The guide step that guides how to place the touch pen with the tip of the touch pen not touching the tablet display within a predetermined distance, and detection that detects the state of the pen switch when the touch pen is placed Steps.
[0019]
Moreover, it is preferable that the pen switch state detection method includes a notification step of notifying the fact by the notification means when detecting that the pen switch state is on.
[0020]
Furthermore, it is more preferable that the pen switch state detection method performs the above notification in a scene where the input device does not input using the touch pen.
[0021]
Moreover, it is preferable that the pen switch state detection method includes a determination step of determining that a defect has occurred in the touch pen when a predetermined position determined in advance from the input device is input to the main body device as the input position.
[0022]
Furthermore, in the pen switch state detection method, it is more preferable to perform the above determination in a scene where the input device does not input using the touch pen.
[0023]
According to still another aspect of the present invention, a photographic vending machine is a photographic vending machine including the above-described pen switch state detection member, and includes an image input means for accepting input of a photographed image, and a pen shaft at a tip portion. Detects the position of a touch pen whose pen switch state is turned on when pressed and the position of the touch pen within the detection range, determines the position of the touch pen when the pen switch state is on as the input position, and edits the captured image The pen switch state detecting member is used for detecting the pen switch state of the touch pen.
[0024]
According to still another aspect of the present invention, a photo vending method includes an image input step for receiving an input of a captured image, and a touch pen whose pen switch state is turned on by pressing a pen shaft at a tip portion within a detection range. A reception step for detecting the position of the touch pen at a certain time, determining the position of the touch pen when the pen switch state is on as an input position, and accepting an editing operation on the captured image, and an output step for outputting the edited captured image In the photo vending method including the above, each step included in the above-described pen switch state detection method is provided, and the pen switch state is detected.
[0025]
According to still another aspect of the present invention, the pen switch state detection device includes: an acquisition unit that acquires a pen switch state of a touch pen that is turned on by pressing a pen shaft at a tip portion; and a touch pen. A pen switch of the touch pen held by the holding means by the holding means that holds the touch pen at a predetermined distance from the touch surface so that the tip of the touch pen does not touch the touch surface provided opposite to the tip, and the acquisition means When it is acquired that the state is ON, it is provided with control means for performing control so that the notification means notifies the fact.
[0026]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same parts and components are denoted by the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed description thereof will not be repeated.
[0027]
In the present embodiment, the image input device according to the present invention is described as a photo vending machine. However, the image input device is not limited to a photo vending machine, and an image can be input by a user. Other apparatuses that perform processing such as image processing and printing processing on an image input in response to an instruction from the computer may be used.
[0028]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a specific example of the appearance of a photo vending machine in the present embodiment. A photo vending machine is roughly divided into a side that performs a shooting operation and a side that performs a drawing operation, which is an input of an image or a character, called a drawing on the image after shooting. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a specific example of the appearance when a photo vending machine is viewed from the surface where the photographing operation is performed.
[0029]
A photo vending machine according to the present embodiment includes a housing 1 that houses various devices such as a computer device 101, a printer 12, and a control unit 102 (base) (both see FIG. 3), and a photographing booth 4 ( 2) and a frame material. For the sake of explanation, FIG. 1 shows the photographing operation side of the housing 1 in a state in which the panel and the frame material are removed.
[0030]
In such a photo vending machine, a user who is a subject enters a photographing booth 4 that is a photographing space composed of the casing 1, the panel, and the frame material, and performs photographing in a direction opposite to the casing 1. . In the following description, for convenience, the surface on the photographing operation side of the housing 1 is referred to as the front surface, and the surface on the drawing operation side is referred to as the back surface. Further, in the present embodiment, the description will be made on the assumption that the subject is a user (person), but the subject is not limited to the user, and may be another object. Further, there may be one or more users who are subjects.
[0031]
Referring to FIG. 1, on the front surface of the case 1 of the photo vending machine, a monitor 21 displays a camera 21, an image captured by the camera 21, a demonstration screen, an operation procedure during shooting, an announcement to the user, and the like. 22, a speaker 23a (not shown) that outputs a demonstration (hereinafter referred to as "demo") voice, an announcement such as BGM, and an operation method, a coin insertion slot 26 for inserting coins as a price, and front maintenance And a front door 28 for performing the above.
[0032]
In addition, around the camera 21 of the housing 1, there are provided lighting boxes 18 a to 18 c that incorporate a fluorescent lamp, a flash, and the like and illuminate the subject. Further, an operation button 51 for inputting an operation from a user is provided on the front surface of the housing 1.
[0033]
The monitor 22 displays options such as selection of a playing method (course) executed by the photo vending machine. The user presses the operation button 51 to make a selection. As shown in FIG. 1, the operation button 51 includes a cursor button for moving the selection of an option up and down, a determination button for determining the selection, and a cancel button for canceling the determination. In addition, when the operation button 51 includes a plurality of buttons having the same function, for example, when there are a plurality of cursor buttons to be moved up and down as shown in FIG. 1, they accept operation inputs from a plurality of users at the same time. It is also possible to accept selections for the options displayed on the right side of the monitor 22 from the right set of operation buttons and accept selections for the options displayed on the left side from the left set of operation buttons. May be.
[0034]
An image photographed by the camera 21 is displayed on the monitor 22 in real time, whereby the user can visually confirm the image obtained by photographing.
[0035]
As the camera 21, a digital camera is generally used. Changes to items (for example, shutter speed, aperture value, exposure correction, white balance, etc.) that can be set with a general digital camera and shooting timing are instructed from the computer device 101 (see FIG. 3).
[0036]
Note that the photo vending machine according to the present embodiment is provided with the camera 21 as described above to perform shooting. However, instead of the camera 21, a CD-ROM (Compact Disc-Read Only Memory) in which an image is recorded is used. ) And other functions such as reading images from a recording medium and acquiring images from a storage device provided in a photographing device such as a digital camera or a mobile phone with a camera function. Then, the same processing as that for the image taken by the camera 21 may be performed.
[0037]
Further, a cable is inserted into the upper surface of the housing 1 when communicating with an external device such as a fan for releasing heat inside the housing 1, image distribution to an external device, remote maintenance, or the like. It is preferable that a LAN (Local Area Network) cable insertion port is provided. In addition, since such a fan is provided for the purpose of releasing the heat inside the housing 1, the fan is not limited to the upper surface of the housing 1, and is located in other places such as the vicinity of devices that easily generate heat. It does not matter whether it is provided or a plurality thereof. Further, the position where the LAN cable insertion port is provided is not limited to the upper surface of the housing 1 as long as the cable wiring can be easily routed.
[0038]
Further, when a panel (not shown) constituting the photographing booth 4 is made of wood, the panel is largely divided into a left side surface, a right side surface, a back surface, a ceiling surface, and the like. Furthermore, since the rear panel is large, it may be divided into two pieces, vertically or horizontally. Also, the inner surface of the panel inside the shooting booth 4 is white for the purpose of obtaining indirect light due to reflection of illumination, black for the purpose of absorbing light, and for the purpose of performing chroma key composition. Colors such as blue are given. That is, the color of the inner surface of the panel is appropriately selected at the time of design development depending on what kind of shooting is performed in the photo vending machine. Further, the panel can be replaced with cloth or vinyl material, and in that case, the panel is fixed in a state where it is stretched without slack.
[0039]
In addition, a background curtain (not shown) is provided in the shooting booth 4 and is used as a background at the time of shooting. Depending on the background color, the subject's appearance, especially the color tone, changes, so there are multiple curtains of various colors and patterns. Further, the background curtain may not be provided. Furthermore, the background curtain may be set by a user's manual operation such as a winding type or a drawer type, or may be automatically set by operating the operation button 51 or the like. In addition, the background curtain can be an element of play in shooting by providing various types.
[0040]
In addition, the side of the photo vending machine is open so that the user can go in and out of the shooting booth 4, but in consideration of the user's feelings such as not wanting other people to see the shooting scene. In addition, a side curtain (not shown) is provided on the side surface for the purpose of blocking external light. In addition, when the entrance to the photographing booth is only on one side, a side curtain is provided only on that side. In addition, when it is possible to enter and exit from both side surfaces, side curtains may be provided on both side surfaces. When shooting, the user opens the side curtain and enters the shooting booth 4 and closes the side curtain during shooting. In addition, the color etc. of the back surface of the side curtain (the inside of the photography booth 4) are appropriately selected for the same reason as the background curtain and the panel inner surface.
[0041]
Next, FIG. 2 shows a specific example of the appearance when the photo vending machine is viewed from the back of the housing 1 (the surface on which the drawing operation is performed).
[0042]
Referring to FIG. 2, on the back of housing 1 of the photo vending machine, a tablet display 13 that displays an image obtained by shooting and accepts editing of the image, touch pen 14 for inputting an image, A speaker 23b is provided for outputting a description of music and operation methods to the user by voice.
[0043]
The tablet display 13 displays an image after shooting. In addition, the user receives an edit input (graffiti) using the touch pen 14 for an image obtained by photographing.
[0044]
The touch pen 14 is a pen-shaped input device, and touches the tablet display 13 to input images and characters such as a background, a stamp, and a frame, or to select an item (button) to be used and an operation. You can enter. One touch pen 14 may be provided in the photo vending machine, or a plurality of touch pens 14 may be provided as shown in FIG. 2 to allow input operations from a plurality of users at the same time.
[0045]
Further, referring to FIG. 2, a print outlet 9 having a box shape is provided on the side surface of the casing 1 of the photo vending machine. A printer 12 is provided inside the housing 1, and a photograph printed by the printer 12 is discharged and dropped here.
[0046]
The shape of the print take-out port 9 is not limited as long as the photograph dropped there has an effect such as not falling on the ground until the user picks it up. For example, you may form with the box-shaped space hollowed in the internal direction of the housing | casing 1, and the cover attached in the direction along the side surface of the housing | casing 1. FIG. In addition, a printing LED (Light Emitting Diode) 10 and a printing error LED 11 are provided in the vicinity of the print outlet 9, and when they are lit or blinking, they are out of paper, out of ink, paper during printing or printing. Notifies that an error such as clogging or mechanical error has occurred.
[0047]
The printer 12 is a printer for printing a photographed image on a printing medium such as paper, sticker, metal, or plastic, and is a printer such as a sublimation type printer or a thermoautochrome type (light-fixing type direct thermal recording type). Is generally used. In the present embodiment, description is made on the assumption that the sticker is printed by the printer 12, but the print medium is not limited to the sticker, and the same processing is executed even for the other print media shown above. The
[0048]
Next, FIG. 3 shows a functional block diagram of the photo vending machine in the present embodiment, and the function of the photo vending machine will be described.
[0049]
Referring to FIG. 3, the photo vending machine accepts instructions from a computer device 101 for operating the photo vending machine and a computer device 101 that is composed of a substrate and is in operation, and is connected to various types. And a control unit 102 for controlling the apparatus.
[0050]
The computer apparatus 101 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) that is an arithmetic device that controls the computer apparatus 101, a program for operating the apparatus, graphic data necessary for the program, audio data, captured images, and image capturing. A storage device for storing edited images input to the image and other various images, a memory serving as a temporary work area for the program, and peripherals such as the camera 21, the printer 12, the tablet display 13, and the monitor 22 A driver that is software for controlling the device and a communication unit that performs communication when connected to an external device via a LAN cable, and reads and executes a program stored in the storage device That's it, taking pictures with the camera 21 Printing on the printer 12, and controls the output of the input of the detection signal from the input device 100 constituted by the tablet display 13 and the touch pen 14, through display on the monitor 22, and a sound board speaker 23. At that time, the computer apparatus 101 causes the timer 25 to measure time as necessary, and acquires the measured time from the timer 25. The computer apparatus 101 starts and operates when the power switch 29 is pressed and the photo vending machine is turned on from the power plug.
[0051]
The photo vending machine also includes a power supply control unit 103 that controls a power supply system such as the camera 21, the printer 12, and the lighting device 30 that require power, and stabilizes the voltage of the power supply to these devices from the outside. Control. Further, such turning on and off of the power is performed by pressing the power switch 29. However, forcibly terminating a program running on the computer apparatus 101 by turning off the power causes the operation to become unstable. For this reason, even if the power is turned off, the UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply) 104 backs up the power and transmits a power failure signal to the computer apparatus 101, the control unit 102, and the like. In the meantime, the computer apparatus 101 performs a program termination procedure and terminates the program normally.
[0052]
The control unit 102 described above receives a control signal from the service panel 105. The service panel 105 includes a coin counter that counts the number of inserted coins, a print counter that counts the number of printed prints, a volume adjustment knob that adjusts the volume of audio output from the speaker 23, and a test mode. A panel having a test button and a service button for allowing the apparatus to be used without accepting a fee, and is used when the installer of the photo vending machine performs various settings and maintenance operations. The service panel 105 sends a signal indicating that the test button or the service button has been pressed to the control unit 102. Conversely, the coin counter and the print counter are operated by a control signal from the control unit 102 (for example, the counter is incremented by 1). The audio signal output from the computer apparatus 101 to the speaker 23 via the sound board is output from the speaker 23 at a volume adjusted by the volume adjustment knob on the service panel 105.
[0053]
In addition, the control unit 102 receives signals from the operation buttons 51, the service panel 105, and the coin control unit 107 and notifies the computer device 101, or conversely, a service is received by a control signal (such as an instruction command) from the computer device 101. The panel 105, the illumination device 30, the coin control unit 107, the printing LED 10, and the printing error LED 11 are controlled.
[0054]
The coin control unit 107 detects the validity of the coin inserted into the coin insertion slot 26 and sends a signal indicating that a coin has been inserted to the control unit 102. Conversely, when coin insertion is prohibited, the coin control unit 107 can block the coin insertion slot 26 so that coins are not inserted by a control signal from the control unit 102. Alternatively, in the case where the photo vending machine has a function of accepting a price to replace the coin insertion slot 26 (for example, a reading device that accepts the price electronically), the coin control unit 107 accepts the price received by the price accepting function described above. And a signal indicating that the consideration has been accepted is sent to the control unit 102.
[0055]
The operation button 51 inputs the instruction content received from the user to the control unit 102 as an instruction signal. The computer apparatus 101 receives an instruction signal from the operation button 51 and executes a process corresponding to the operation content.
[0056]
The tablet display 13 displays display information output from the computer device 101 and functions as the input device 100 in combination with the touch pen 14.
[0057]
Further, the printer 12 notifies the computer apparatus 101 of the status of the printer 12. The computer apparatus 101 sends a signal to the control unit 102 according to the state. The control unit 102 lights or blinks the printing LED 10 or the printing error LED 11 according to a signal input from the computer apparatus 101.
[0058]
Needless to say, the form of the photo vending machine is not limited to the specific examples shown in FIGS. That is, other functions not shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 may be provided, or not all of the functions shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 may be provided. For example, the printer 12 may not be included in the photo vending machine. In this case, the photo vending machine outputs a print control signal to the printer 12 via a dedicated line such as a LAN or wireless communication. To do.
[0059]
Next, processing in the photo vending machine in the present embodiment will be described using the flowchart of FIG. The processing shown in the flowchart of FIG. 4 is realized by the CPU of the computer apparatus 101 reading a program stored in the storage device into the memory and executing it.
[0060]
First, when a power switch 29 provided in the photo vending machine is turned on, various devices are turned on. Then, the operation program stored in the storage device of the computer device 101 is activated. The computer device 101 executes an operation program to first check whether various devices are normally connected, and performs initialization for a device that requires initialization. After that, a title demo that prompts the user to use the photo vending machine is displayed on the monitor 22, and a standby screen is displayed on the tablet display 13 indicating that shooting is to be performed first. At the same time, sound is output from the speaker 23 (S101).
[0061]
When it is detected that the test button is pressed on the service panel 105 while the title demo is displayed (YES in S103), a test mode for performing maintenance of the photo vending machine is started, The setting is accepted (S105).
[0062]
The test mode is a mode for the installer of the photo vending machine to operate the photo vending machine. In this mode, the usage status (for example, the number of coins inserted) of the photo vending machine is checked, and the camera 21 is operated. Peripheral devices such as the printer 12 can be adjusted. Here, the owner of the photo vending machine is the manager, manager, and employee of the store where the photo vending machine is installed and operates, and can respond to the user during business. It is.
[0063]
On the other hand, if the coin control unit 107 detects that a coin for using the photo vending machine has been inserted from the coin insertion slot 26 (NO in S103 and YES in S107), the computer apparatus 101. Starts the subsequent play.
[0064]
First, the CPU of the computer apparatus 101 displays a course selection screen on the monitor 22 and accepts selection of a course as a subsequent play method (S109). In the operation program, processing corresponding to each course is prepared, and the CPU of the computer apparatus 101 branches to and executes the processing according to the selection result in step S109.
[0065]
Next, the CPU of the computer apparatus 101 executes processing according to the course selected in step S109, and displays the captured image acquired by the camera 21 on the monitor 22 in real time (S111). By displaying the captured image on the monitor 22 in real time in step S111, the user can take a favorite facial expression or pose while viewing the image displayed on the monitor 22. Here, an image acquired by the camera 21 may be displayed on the monitor 22 as it is, or may be displayed by being reversed left and right. When the left and right images are inverted and displayed, the user can be displayed on the monitor 22 in the same direction as the direction in which the user is reflected in the mirror. Therefore, the user can easily take a favorite expression and pose while looking at the monitor 22.
[0066]
Further, the user selects a background curtain, moves the camera 21 to a desired position, rotates the camera 21 according to the operation screen (not shown) displayed on the monitor 22 and the sound flowing from the speaker 23, or You can adjust the orientation. These instructions are received by the operation button 51 or the like. Further, when a button for instructing the direction of the camera 21 or zooming is provided in the vicinity of the camera 21 or the like, the direction of the camera 21 or an instruction for zooming is accepted thereby.
[0067]
The computer apparatus 101 transmits a photographic signal to the camera 21, and the camera 21 releases the shutter according to the photographic signal, so that a still image is captured from the camera 21 to the storage device of the computer apparatus 101. As for the shooting timing, the computer apparatus 101 automatically transmits a shooting signal to the camera 21 at a predetermined timing according to the operation program, and outputs a countdown such as “3, 2, 1” to the monitor 22 or the speaker 23 as time elapses. Then, the user may be notified. Alternatively, when the user presses the operation button 51 at an arbitrary timing while viewing the shooting screen, the computer apparatus 101 receives an instruction signal from the operation button 51 via the control unit 102 and takes an image at the timing at which the instruction signal is received. A signal may be transmitted to the camera 21. In step S111, such shooting is repeated a predetermined number of times.
[0068]
In step S111, selection of a frame or background may be accepted at the same time. Alternatively, when selection of a background image or a frame image (foreground image) that is an editing image is received before step S111, the computer apparatus 101 may display the captured image together with the captured image. This is a layer on the memory for the CPU to read out a predetermined editing image from the storage device and display it on the monitor 22, and the editing image is on a layer different from the layer for displaying the photographed image. It is realized by putting. Further, the computer device 101 may execute and display a composite process of a captured image and an editing image.
[0069]
When the predetermined number of images or the predetermined time has been shot in step S111, the computer apparatus 101 accepts selection of an image to be used for subsequent processing from a plurality of shot images shot through the control unit 102 (S113).
[0070]
Next, the computer apparatus 101 performs brightness adjustment for each captured image selected in step S113 (S115).
[0071]
Next, the computer apparatus 101 determines a sticker layout for printing after performing the subsequent editing process for the captured image selected in step S113 (S117).
[0072]
Next, the computer apparatus 101 receives an editing input for each captured image selected in step S113 (S119). When the editing input is completed, the computer apparatus 101 synthesizes the photographed image and the input image, generates print image data according to the seal layout selected in step S117, and outputs the print image data to the printer 12 (S121). . At this time, the user may accept selection of an image to be printed on a print medium such as a sticker. In addition, a selection not to print an image or the like that has failed to be edited may be accepted.
[0073]
The above processing is a series of plays performed by a set of users with the photo vending machine of the present embodiment. When the above processing is completed, the title demo is output again from the speaker 23, the monitor 22, and the tablet display 13 until the next acceptance of the value is detected, and when the acceptance of the value is detected, the above processing is performed again. Repeat.
[0074]
In the above-mentioned play order, the seal layout is selected in step S117 before the edit input in step S119. However, the play order is not limited to this order, and the seal layout is selected after the edit input is completed. You may do it.
[0075]
Of the series of plays described above, several operations including editing input in step S119, such as photo selection in step S113, brightness adjustment in step S115, and seal layout selection in step S117, are drawing operations. This is done using an input device 100 consisting of a touch pen 14 and a tablet display 13 on the side. Among the above processes, the edit input in step S119 will be described in detail with a specific example of the display screen.
[0076]
That is, in the editing input in step S119, the computer apparatus 101 displays an editing screen as shown in FIG. 5 on the tablet display 13, and the user selects an editing type (tool) to be used for editing input or editing. The touch pen 14 receives selection of an image for use, designation of a position for inputting an image for editing, and the like.
[0077]
On the editing screen shown in FIG. 5, two of the photographed images selected in step S113 are displayed so as to be editable, and together with the photographed images, the editing input tools “pen” and “stamp” are displayed. The image for editing and the line type used in “are displayed. In addition, “Push rubber” to erase the input image, “Background pop rubber” to erase the already selected background image, “Return one” to return the input operation to the previous state, Image input first Buttons such as “From the beginning” to start over are displayed. Note that the editing screen is not limited to the screen shown in FIG. 5. For example, “frame” or “line” may be displayed as an editing input tool.
[0078]
The user selects a tool to be used by touching these buttons with the touch pen 14. If the photo vending machine includes a plurality of touch pens 14, both the left and right edits of the edit screen shown in FIG.
[0079]
The computer device 101 develops the captured image and the image for editing selected by the user on different layers on the memory, and displays the layers on the tablet display 13 in an overlapping manner. Which of the respective layers is displayed above is set depending on the application. For example, when the edited and input image is used as the foreground image of the captured image, the edited and input image becomes the upper layer. Further, the edited and input image may be composed of a plurality of layers such as a stamp image layer and a frame image layer.
[0080]
The edit input time for editing is set in advance. Then, the remaining time is displayed on the tablet display 13 and the countdown is performed. When the remaining time becomes 0, the editing input ends. Alternatively, it can be forcibly terminated by touching an “end” button prepared on the screen.
[0081]
In step S119 or the like, when inputting information with the input device 100 including the touch pen 14 and the tablet display 13, information on coordinates indicating the position touched with the touch pen 14 is detected on the tablet display 13 side, and the tablet display 13 It is converted into an instruction signal on the side and input to the computer apparatus 101.
[0082]
In this embodiment, the input device 100 including the tablet display 13 and the touch pen 14 is an input device that employs the electromagnetic induction method or the electrostatic coupling method described above. A detection method of the tablet display 13 and the touch pen 14 in the input device adopting the electromagnetic induction method and the input device adopting the electrostatic coupling method will be described with reference to FIGS. The detection method of the touch pen 14 in the input device adopting these methods is a conventionally used method and is not a feature of the present invention. Therefore, in particular, the detection range in which the presence of the touch pen 14 can be detected and the on / off state of the pen switch will be described to the minimum.
[0083]
FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram for explaining an operation mechanism in an input device adopting an electromagnetic induction method. Referring to FIG. 6, touch pen 14 includes a resonance circuit including a coil and a capacitor. In addition, a pen shaft 1420 exists at the tip of the touch pen 14, and the pen shaft 1420 expands and contracts in the longitudinal direction of the touch pen 14 and cooperates with the capacitor in the touch pen 14 in a circuit.
[0084]
The tablet display 13 includes a liquid crystal panel for displaying information such as an image and a sensor substrate including a sensor coil for detecting the presence of the touch pen 14.
[0085]
In the tablet display 13, magnetic flux is generated on the sensor substrate when a constant current flows through the sensor coil on the sensor substrate. When the touch pen 14 is brought close to a predetermined range from the tablet display 13, the resonance circuit of the touch pen 14 resonates due to the magnetic flux generated on the sensor substrate, and a current flows through the coil of the touch pen 14 to generate a magnetic flux on the touch pen 14 side. In the tablet display 13, an induced electromotive voltage is generated in the sensor coil on the sensor substrate by the magnetic flux generated on the touch pen 14 side within a predetermined range. The tablet display 13 detects the presence of the touch pen 14 by detecting the generation of the induced electromotive voltage. Moreover, the tablet display 13 detects this position as the position which the touch pen 14 has instruct | indicated by detecting the position with the highest induced electromotive voltage compared with the periphery among the sensor coils on a sensor board | substrate.
[0086]
The predetermined range described above is a magnetic field detection range in which the touch pen 14 and the sensor substrate can resonate with each other, and is a range indicated by a distance H from the tablet display 13 in FIG. That is, this magnetic field detection range is a detection range in which the tablet display 13 can detect the presence and position of the touch pen 14.
[0087]
Furthermore, when the pen shaft 1420 of the touch pen 14 contacts the tablet display 13 and the pen shaft 1420 is pushed into the touch pen 14, the pen shaft 1420 changes the capacitance of the capacitor of the connected resonance circuit. This changes the resonant frequency of the resonant circuit. The input device 100 detects the change in the resonance frequency, and detects whether the pen switch is on or off according to the change in the resonance frequency.
[0088]
Next, FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram for explaining the mechanism of the operation of the input device adopting the electrostatic coupling method. Referring to FIG. 7, a pen shaft 1420 is present at the tip of the touch pen 14, and the pen shaft 1420 expands and contracts in the longitudinal direction of the touch pen 14 and cooperates with a photo interrupter (not shown) in the touch pen 14 in a circuit manner. The photo interrupter converts the expansion and contraction of the pen shaft 1420 into a change in potential. Further, the tip of the pen shaft 1420 is an electrode, and a signal line extends from the side opposite to the pen shaft 1420 in the longitudinal direction of the touch pen 14.
[0089]
The tablet display 13 includes a liquid crystal panel for displaying information such as an image and a transparent electrode.
[0090]
When a voltage is applied to the transparent electrode of the tablet display 13 and the touch pen 14 is brought close to a predetermined range from the tablet display 13, a potential change occurs on the touch pen 14 side through the capacitance generated between the touch pen 14 and the transparent electrode. Arise. Since the electrostatic capacitance between the touch pen 14 and the transparent electrode is maximized at a position where the distance between the touch pen 14 and the transparent electrode of the tablet display 13 is the shortest, the tablet display 13 detects the electrostatic capacitance. Thus, this position is detected as the position indicated by the touch pen 14.
[0091]
The predetermined range described above is an electrostatic coupling range in which electrostatic capacitance is generated between the touch pen 14 and the sensor substrate and electrostatic coupling is performed, and is a range indicated by a distance H from the tablet display 13 in FIG. is there. That is, this electrostatic coupling range is a detection range in which the tablet display 13 can detect the presence and position of the touch pen 14.
[0092]
Further, when the pen shaft 1420 of the touch pen 14 comes into contact with the tablet display 13 and the pen shaft 1420 is pushed into the touch pen 14, the potential changes due to an operation of a photo interrupter to which the pen shaft 1420 is connected. The input device 100 detects the change of the potential to detect the on / off state of the pen switch.
[0093]
The input device 100 outputs a detection signal indicating the detected position (coordinates) of the touch pen 14 and a detection signal indicating the ON state of the pen switch to the computer device 101. In the computer apparatus 101, the position indicated by the touch pen 14 detected when the pen switch is in the on state is determined as the input position and used for processing. Alternatively, the input device 100 may determine the position indicated by the touch pen 14 detected when the pen switch is in the on state as the input position and output the input position to the computer apparatus 101.
[0094]
Note that the input device 100 according to the present embodiment is an input device adopting the electromagnetic induction method or the electrostatic coupling method as described above, and the tablet display 13 is a touch pen in the above-described magnetic field detection range and electrostatic coupling range. In the following description, the detection range in which the presence and position of 14 can be detected will be collectively referred to as a detection range.
[0095]
By the way, as described above, when the tablet display 13 is touched with the pen shaft 1420, the normal input device 100 has a mechanism for detecting the change of the resonance frequency and the change of the potential to detect the ON state of the pen switch. However, when the pen shaft 1420 is kept pressed and the tablet display 13 is not touched, a failure may occur so that the pen switch state is detected as the on state. Therefore, a pen switch state detection device suitable for detecting a switch state in the input device 100 will be described below.
[0096]
[Example 1]
The photo vending machine in the first embodiment includes a pen switch state detection device 200 including a tablet display 13 as shown in FIG. The pen switch state detection apparatus 200 according to the present embodiment includes a holding member 201 having a surface substantially parallel to the tablet display 13 that has a hole 202 into which the touch pen 14 is inserted and holds the touch pen 14 in a predetermined position. 13 at a position of height H1.
[0097]
The pen switch state detection device 200 shown in FIG. 8 is a pen switch state detection device 200 including a flat box-shaped pen switch state detection member installed on the tablet display 13, and details thereof are shown in FIG. Show. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of a cross section in which the pen switch state detection device 200 including the pen switch state detection member is cut in a direction perpendicular to the holding member 201 along a plane including the diameter of the hole 202.
[0098]
Referring to FIG. 9, the pen switch state detection device 200 includes a holding member 201 that is a pen switch state detection member at a position with the height H1 from the tablet display 13 as the upper surface. The holding member 201 is a member having the same thickness as the distance H <b> 1 to the tablet display 13, and is penetrated until the hole 202 reaches the tablet display 13. As another form, as shown in FIG. 10, the holding member 201 is a plate having a thickness of H1 or less, and is held by the support member at a position with the height H1 as the upper surface from the tablet display 13. May be. In this case, it is preferable to provide a prevention mechanism that prevents the touch pen 14 from being inserted below the holding member 201 from a point other than the hole 202 from the side in the lateral direction with respect to the pen switch state detection device 200. In addition, it is preferable to provide a support mechanism that prevents the holding member 201 from being bent due to its weight or impact when the touch pen 14 is inserted into the hole 202.
[0099]
The distance H1 from the holding member 201 to the tablet display 13 is equal to or less than the distance H from the tablet display 13 which is a detection range in which the presence and position of the touch pen 14 can be detected on the tablet display 13 side. With such a configuration, the presence and position of the touch pen 14 can be detected on the tablet display 13 side in a state where the touch pen 14 is held by the holding member 201.
[0100]
The holding member 201 has a hole 202 into which the touch pen 14 is inserted, and the hole diameter R1 is equal to or smaller than the maximum diameter R2 of the touch pen 14. For this reason, when the touch pen 14 is inserted into the hole 202, as shown in FIG. 9, the touch pen 14 is held at a position having a diameter that matches the hole diameter R1. Further, since the shape of the touch pen 14 becomes narrower toward the tip (pen shaft 1420), as shown in FIG. 11, the hole diameter R1 is set to R3 <in the relationship between the maximum diameter R2 and the minimum diameter R3 of the touch pen 14. R1 <R2 is preferable. More specifically, since the maximum diameter R2 of the touch pen 14 is about 1 cm to 2 cm and the diameter of the pen shaft 1420 is about 1 mm to 2 mm, the hole diameter R1 is preferably formed within about 5 mm to 2 cm, for example. Therefore, the specific size of the holding member 201 is preferably about 2.5 cm to 4 cm on one side.
[0101]
The distance H1 of the holding member 201 from the tablet display 13 is such that when the touch pen 14 is inserted into the hole 202 and the touch pen 14 is held at a predetermined position, the pen shaft 1420 maintains a distance H2 greater than 0 from the tablet display 13. Distance.
[0102]
The material of the holding member 201 itself is not limited in the present invention. However, when the touch pen 14 is made of a soft protective material that does not damage the touch pen 14 when touched, or a non-slip material such as resin or rubber, the touch pen Even when 14 is inserted and moved, the touch pen 14 and the tablet display 13 are not damaged. Moreover, when it is set as transparent resin, the tablet display 13 under it can also be seen through, and it is more preferable. Alternatively, only the portion around the hole 202 of the holding member 201, that is, the portion that contacts the touch pen 14 (the portion indicated by a circle in FIGS. 9 and 11) is a soft protective material that does not damage the touch pen 14 when contacting the touch pen 14. There may be. Furthermore, it is more preferable that a non-slipable member such as resin or rubber is used for that portion because the touch pen 14 is reliably held.
[0103]
Further, the pen switch state detecting member of the pen switch state detecting device 200 is not limited to the flat box shape shown in FIG. 8, but in the shape of a pen holder installed on the tablet display 13 as shown in FIG. And the form which stores the touch pen 14 in the hollow part of the inside may be sufficient. FIG. 13 shows details of the pen switch state detection device 200 of the form shown in FIG. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of a cross section of the pen switch state detection device 200 including the pen switch state detection member cut along a plane including the diameter of the pen switch-shaped pen switch state detection device 200.
[0104]
Referring to FIG. 13, the pen switch state detection device 200 including the pen switch state detection member of the form shown in FIG. 12 is also a pen switch state detection member having a hole 202 formed therein. When the touch pen 14 is inserted into a pen switch state detecting device 200 including a pen holder-shaped pen switch state detecting member, the touch pen 14 is inserted into the hole 202 and the pen shaft 1420 is moved from the tablet display 13 to 0. It is held at a predetermined position that maintains a larger distance H2.
[0105]
As shown in FIG. 14, the pen switch state detection device 200 further includes an LED 203 at a position that is easy to see when an editing input operation is performed. When the computer device 101 receives an instruction signal input from the input device 100 by detecting the ON state of the pen switch, the computer device 101 causes the LED 203 to emit light and notifies the user. By providing such an LED 203, when the tablet display 13 is touched with the touch pen 14, it can be confirmed by the light emission of the LED 203 that these instruction signals are input from the input device 100 to the computer device 101. it can. Further, instead of the LED 203, a display screen for informing that effect may be displayed on the tablet display 13. By providing such a notification function, it is possible to visually check the pen switch state of the touch pen, and to easily detect a touch pen failure.
[0106]
The pen switch state detection device 200 includes the tablet display 13, and the pen switch state detection member has a flat box shape or pen holder shape installed on the tablet display 13 installed on the tablet display 13. However, the installation location of the pen switch state detection member is preferably a location (such as a corner of the tablet display 13) that does not interfere with the above-described editing process on the tablet display 13. Further, the pen switch state detection member is detachable from the tablet display 13 and can be installed at an arbitrary position.
[0107]
Moreover, the pen switch state detection device 200 according to the present invention can be used for an existing photo vending machine. In this case, for example, the pen switch state detecting member is placed on the tablet display of the existing photo vending machine during the above-described drawing operation, and the touch pen is inserted into the pen switch state detecting member, and the pen switch is in that state. When a drawing operation such as drawing a line with a touch pen is performed for each state detection member, and the drawn line is input, it is possible to easily know that the touch pen is out of order.
[0108]
Since the pen switch state detection device 200 has the above-described configuration, the pen switch state detection device 200 has the holding member 201 that is a pen switch state detection member inserted into the touch pen 14 and the pen shaft 1420 connected to the tablet display 13. The position is not touched and is held within the detection range of the tablet display 13. By holding the touch pen 14 at such a position, the tablet display 13 can detect the state of the pen switch when the touch pen 14 is not touching the tablet display 13. That is, when the touch pen 14 is not malfunctioning, the pen switch is in an off state while being held by the holding member 201. Therefore, the LED 203 does not emit light. On the other hand, when the touch pen 14 breaks down and the pen shaft 1420 remains pressed, the input device 100 detects the pen switch on state while being held by the holding member 201. Therefore, the LED 203 emits light.
[0109]
As the pen switch state detection device 200 functions as described above, the user or the installer of the photo vending machine simply checks the pen switch state of the touch pen 14 by inserting the touch pen 14 into the pen switch state detection device 200. Can be easily performed. For this reason, a failure of the touch pen 14 can be quickly found and dealt with quickly. Further, the holding member 201 which is a pen switch state detection member of the pen switch state detection device 200 can keep the distance H2 from the pen shaft 1420 of the touch pen 14 to the tablet display 13 constant, and anyone can easily achieve the same accuracy. Thus, the pen switch state of the touch pen 14 can be detected.
[0110]
Further, the confirmation of the pen switch state of the touch pen 14 in the pen switch state detection device 200 may be performed at any time during play using the touch pen 14 such as an editing input operation, or during the title demonstration display in step S101 described above. It may be performed in a scene where no input is performed using the touch pen 14. By doing so, it becomes possible for a user who notices that the operation of the touch pen 14 is strange during play to easily check the state of the pen switch and notify the failure. In addition, while the play is not being executed and the title demonstration is being displayed, the installer can easily confirm the pen switch state of the touch pen 14 without starting the test mode in step S105. This allows for proper handling of touch pen failures and allows the user to always provide the desired picture with the touch pen in a normal state.
[0111]
When the position (coordinates) on the tablet display 13 where the pen switch state detection member is installed is determined in advance, the computer device 101 is a predetermined position determined in advance from the input device 100. When the instruction signal indicating the coordinates is received, it is possible to automatically determine whether the touch pen 14 has failed. Therefore, the failure of the touch pen 14 can be notified by the display of the LED 203 or the tablet display 13 or the sound output from the speaker 23.
[0112]
Furthermore, the state of the pen switch in a state where the touch pen 14 is not touching the tablet display 13 may be detected on a side other than the tablet display 13 side. For example, a detection device having a detection range wider than the detection range of the tablet display 13 is provided in a place other than the tablet display 13 on the surface including the tablet display 13 or on a surface other than the surface including the tablet display 13. The state of the pen switch when the display 13 is not touched may be monitored.
[0113]
[Modification 1]
As another method for holding the touch pen 14 within the detection range of the tablet display 13 at a position where the pen shaft 1420 does not touch the tablet display 13, as shown in FIG. 15, the touch pen 14 is placed on the tablet display 13. It may be placed sideways. At this time, when the input device 100 is an input device adopting an electromagnetic induction method, when the direction of the magnetic flux generated on the touch pen 14 side becomes a direction following the sensor coil on the sensor substrate of the tablet display 13, induction occurs on the tablet display 13. Since the generation of the voltage may not be detected, for example, the amount of magnetic flux generated on the touch pen 14 side is increased, or the coil of the touch pen 14 is configured to be movable in the vertical direction in a pendulum shape, for example. It is preferable. Further, when the input device 100 is an input device employing an electrostatic coupling method, a similar problem can be considered, and by providing electrodes so as to extend not only to the tip of the pen shaft 1420 but also to the periphery of the pen shaft 1420. It is preferable to have a configuration capable of detection.
[0114]
Also by doing in this way, the state of the pen switch when the touch pen 14 is not touching the tablet display 13 can be similarly monitored on the tablet display 13 side. In this case, even if the computer apparatus 101 receives an instruction signal indicating any coordinate of the tablet display 13 from the input apparatus 100, it can automatically determine the failure of the touch pen 14. In other words, the touch pen 14 may be placed sideways at any position on the tablet display 13, and in this case, all the positions on the tablet display 13 correspond to the predetermined position described above. Alternatively, when a position on the tablet display is designated such as “Place the touch pen sideways so that the pen tip enters the circle!” Or the like in the guidance described later, the designated position is the above-mentioned predetermined position. Position.
[0115]
Further, the above-described pen switch state detection device 200 may include a holding member 201 that is a pen switch state detection member that holds the touch pen 14 so as to be positioned sideways with respect to the tablet display 13. In this case, the holding member 201 may be a holder type that fixes the touch pen 14 sideways with respect to the tablet display 13 or simply a groove directly provided in the housing 1. Is not necessary.
[0116]
In this case, as shown in FIG. 16, it is preferable that guidance for guiding the touch pen 14 to be placed sideways on the tablet display 13 is provided. Such guidance may be affixed at a position that is easily visible on the housing 1, may be displayed on the tablet display 13, or may be output as audio from the speaker 23. Then, for example, while the guidance is output from the tablet display 13 or the like, or after pressing a predetermined button of the operation button 51, the pen switch state of the touch pen 14 is confirmed.
[0117]
[Modification 2]
The place where the pen switch state detection member is installed is not limited to the tablet display 13, and as shown in FIG. 17, even if it is a place other than the tablet display 13 on the surface including the tablet display 13, Good. By doing in this way, it becomes easy to perform edit input operation, without the display of the tablet display 13 being interrupted by the pen switch state detection member. Further, such a pen switch state detection member can also be used as a touch pen placement place when the touch pen 14 is not used.
[0118]
In this case, when the pen switch state detection device 200 detects the state of the pen switch in the input device adopting the electromagnetic induction method, the tablet switch 13 is replaced with a tablet display 13 as shown in FIG. A detection unit 204 having a function of detecting a change in the resonance frequency included in the display 13 is included at a position located at the tip of the pen shaft 1420 of the inserted touch pen 14. Further, FIG. 19 shows a functional block diagram of this portion of the functional block diagram of the photo vending machine in this case. As shown in FIG. 19, in the second modification, the control unit 102 detects the ON state of the pen switch based on the detection signal of the change in the resonance frequency input from the detection unit 204. Then, the detection result is output to the computer apparatus 101. When the computer apparatus 101 receives a detection result indicating that the pen switch ON state is detected from the control unit 102, the computer apparatus 101 controls the light emission of the LED 203. As described above, when displaying on the tablet display 13 instead of the LED 203, the LED 203 may not be included.
[0119]
Even when the position (coordinates) of the detection unit 204 is determined in advance, the computer apparatus 101 indicates the coordinates of the detection unit 204 that is a predetermined position determined in advance from the input device 100 as described above. When the instruction signal is received, a failure of the touch pen 14 can be automatically determined.
[0120]
As described above, when the pen switch state detection device 200 is provided other than on the tablet display 13, the computer device 101 automatically determines the failure of the touch pen 14 when receiving the detection result indicating the pen switch on state from the control unit 102. be able to. Therefore, the failure of the touch pen 14 can be notified by the display of the LED 203 or the tablet display 13 or the sound output from the speaker 23.
[0121]
[Example 2]
The pen switch state detection device 200 in the second embodiment is a portable device that is separate from the photo vending machine, and the outline thereof is shown in FIGS. As shown in FIG. 20A, the pen switch state detection device 200 according to the second embodiment has an insertion hole 211 for inserting the touch pen 14 into one end surface of a cylindrical or substantially cylindrical casing 210. Is perforated. Further, as shown in FIG. 20B, a rubber or resin door such as chrysanthemum rubber is provided around the insertion hole 211 in order to prevent foreign matter such as dust other than the touch pen 14 from entering. It is preferred that
[0122]
Referring to FIG. 21, a housing 210 includes a power supply 212 that supplies power to the entire pen switch state detection device 200, a power switch 213 that controls supply of power from the power supply 212, and a control base 214, a power lamp 216 for notifying that power is supplied from the power source 212, and an LED 217 for notifying the operation state of the touch pen 14 are stored. Further, when the pen switch state detection device 200 detects the pen switch state of the touch pen 14 in the input device adopting the electromagnetic induction method, the pen switch state detection device 200 is opposed to the end face described above. The provided surface is provided with a detection unit 215 having a function of detecting a change in resonance frequency. In addition, when the pen switch state detection device 200 detects the pen switch state of the touch pen 14 in the input device adopting the electrostatic coupling method, the detection unit 215 detects the change in potential detected by the touch pen 14. Obtained from the touch pen 14 and output to the control board 214. When the touch pen 14 itself is provided with a function for notifying a change in potential detected by the touch pen 14, that is, a device such as an LED for notifying the pen switch on state, the pen switch state detection device 200 includes a detection unit. The structure which does not require 215 may be sufficient.
[0123]
The hole diameter of the insertion term 211 is determined in the same manner as the hole diameter R1 of the hole 202 drilled in the holding member 201 described in the first embodiment. That is, the hole diameter of the insertion hole 211 is smaller than the maximum diameter of the touch pen 14, and when the touch pen 14 is inserted into the insertion hole 211, the pen shaft 1420 is not touched and is held within the detection range of the detection unit 215. .
[0124]
When the pen switch state detection device 200 detects the pen switch state of the touch pen 14 in the input device adopting the electromagnetic induction method, the detection unit 215 detects a change in the resonance frequency and sends a detection signal to the control board 214. Output. Further, when the pen switch state detection device 200 detects the pen switch state of the touch pen 14 in the input device adopting the electrostatic coupling method, a change in potential detected by the detection unit 215 touch pen 14 is acquired from the touch pen 14. Then, the detection signal is output to the control board 214. When receiving the detection signal from the detection unit 215, the control board 214 causes the LED 217 to emit light.
[0125]
Further, FIG. 22 shows a specific example of the functional configuration of the pen switch state detection device 200. Referring to FIG. 22, the pen switch state detection device 200 is configured by the above-described detection unit 215 and the like, and detects a change in resonance frequency, or acquires a change in potential detected by the touch pen 14 from the touch pen 14. 301, a control unit 302 that controls the entire pen switch state detection device 200, and a display unit 303 including a power lamp 216, an LED 217, and the like. The control unit 302 is stored in a storage device (not shown). The program is read out and a control signal is output to each part to function. That is, the control unit 302 receives a detection signal from the detection unit 301 and outputs a control signal to the display unit 303 to display that the pen switch is in an on state. In addition, a control signal is output to the power switch 213 to control supply of power from the power supply 212.
[0126]
Also in the pen switch state detection apparatus 200 according to the second embodiment, the detection unit 215 monitors the state of the pen switch when the touch pen 14 is not touching. Then, when it is detected that the pen switch is turned on when the touch pen 14 is inserted into the insertion hole 211, that is, when the touch pen 14 is not touching, the control unit 302 of the pen switch state detection device 200 emits the LED 217. To notify that the touch pen 14 is out of order. Therefore, by using such a pen switch state detection device 200, a failure of the touch pen 14 can be easily detected.
[0127]
The pen switch state detection apparatus 200 according to the second embodiment can widely detect the pen switch state of a general touch pen regardless of the model of the photo vending machine. However, depending on the touch pen, a specific input is possible. In some cases, the identification information is output to the tablet display 13 on the assumption that the device 100 is used, and the input is validated only when the identification information is approved by the input device 100. Even with such a touch pen, it is preferable that the pen switch state detection device 200 according to the second embodiment has a function of invalidating the identification information and detects the pen switch state.
[0128]
The embodiment disclosed this time should be considered as illustrative in all points and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a specific example of an external appearance of a photo vending machine when viewed from the front of a housing 1 (surface on which a photographing operation is performed).
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a specific example of the appearance of a photo vending machine when viewed from the back of the housing 1 (the surface on which a drawing operation is performed).
FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram of a photo vending machine.
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing processing in a photo vending machine.
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of an editing screen.
6 is a diagram showing a specific example of the configuration of the touch pen 14. FIG.
7 is a diagram showing an outline of a method for detecting the touch pen 14 on the tablet display 13. FIG.
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a specific example of a pen switch state detection apparatus 200 according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 9 is a diagram showing details of the pen switch state detection apparatus 200 according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 10 is a diagram showing details of a pen switch state detection apparatus 200 according to the first embodiment.
11 is a diagram showing the relationship between the hole diameter R1 of the hole 202, the maximum diameter R2 and the minimum diameter R3 of the touch pen 14. FIG.
FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a specific example of a pen switch state detection apparatus 200 according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 13 is a diagram showing details of a pen switch state detection apparatus 200 according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of a position where an LED 203 is provided.
15 is a diagram showing a specific example of the positional relationship between the tablet display 13 and the touch pen 14. FIG.
FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a specific example of guidance for guiding the touch pen 14 to be placed sideways on the tablet display 13;
17 is a diagram showing another specific example of the installation location of the pen switch state detection device 200. FIG.
FIG. 18 is a diagram showing details of a pen switch state detection apparatus 200 according to a second modification of the first embodiment.
FIG. 19 is a functional block diagram of such a portion of a photo vending machine according to a second modification of the first embodiment.
FIG. 20 is a diagram of a pen switch state detection device 200 according to a second embodiment as viewed from one end face.
FIG. 21 is a diagram schematically illustrating a pen switch state detection apparatus 200 according to a second embodiment.
FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of a functional configuration of a pen switch state detection apparatus 200 according to the second embodiment.
FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of a line drawing drawn with a touch pen in which a defect occurs in a conventional image input apparatus.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 Photo vending machine housing, 4 shooting booth, 9 print outlet, 10 printing LED, 11 printing error LED, 12 printer, 13 tablet display, 14 touch pen, 18a, 18b, 18c lighting box, 21 camera, 22 Monitor, 23, 23a, 23b Speaker, 25 Timer, 26 Coin slot, 28 Front door, 29 Power switch, 30 Illumination device, 51 Operation button, 100 Input device, 101 PC, 102 Control unit, 103 Power control unit, 104 UPS, 105 Service panel, 107 Coin control unit, 200 Pen switch state detection device, 201 Holding member, 202 holes, 203, 217 LED, 204 detection unit, 210 Pen switch state detection device housing, 211 Insertion hole, 212 pen Switch state detection device power supply, 213 Pen switch state detection device power switch, 214 control board, 215 detection unit, 216 power lamp, 301 detection unit, 302 pen switch state detection device control unit, 303 display unit, 1420 pen axis.

Claims (13)

Used in an input device configured to include a touch pen whose pen switch state is turned on by pushing a pen shaft at the tip, and a detection unit that detects the presence of the touch pen when the touch pen is within a detection range. A member,
A pen switch state detection member that holds the touch pen within a detection range and maintains a predetermined distance at which the tip of the touch pen does not touch the detection unit. The pen switch state detection member according to claim 1, further comprising a protection member that protects the touch pen from being damaged by the contact at least at a place where the touch pen is contacted. A holding surface for holding the touch pen, which is substantially parallel to the detection unit, in which a hole having a diameter smaller than the maximum diameter of the touch pen is drilled,
The distance between the detection unit and the holding surface is a distance in which the touch pen is within the detection range and the tip of the touch pen that is inserted and held in the hole does not touch the detection unit. The pen switch state detection member according to 1 or 2. Detected when the pen switch state is on, including a touch pen whose pen switch state is turned on by pushing the pen shaft at the tip, and a tablet display that detects the position of the touch pen within the detection range. A method of detecting a pen switch state of an input device that determines the position of the touch pen as an input position and outputs the input position to a main body device,
A pen switch state detection member that holds the touch pen within a detection range and that holds the touch pen at a predetermined distance where the tip of the touch pen does not touch the tablet display is installed on the tablet display. Pen switch state detection method to detect the state. Detected when the pen switch state is on, including a touch pen whose pen switch state is turned on by pushing the pen shaft at the tip, and a tablet display that detects the position of the touch pen within the detection range. A method of detecting a pen switch state of an input device that determines the position of the touch pen as an input position and outputs the input position to a main body device,
A detection unit that detects a position of the touch pen within a detection range, the detection unit being different from the tablet display, and within a detection range of the detection unit, a predetermined distance at which the tip of the touch pen does not touch the detection unit A pen switch state detection method of detecting a pen switch state by installing a pen switch state detection member that holds the touch pen while maintaining a position in a place other than the tablet display. Detected when the pen switch state is on, including a touch pen whose pen switch state is turned on by pushing the pen shaft at the tip, and a tablet display that detects the position of the touch pen within the detection range. A method of detecting a pen switch state of an input device that determines the position of the touch pen as an input position and outputs the input position to a main body device,
A guidance step for guiding the placement of the touch pen, which is within the detection range and maintains a predetermined distance where the tip of the touch pen does not touch the tablet display;
And a detection step of detecting the pen switch state when the touch pen is placed in the placing manner. The pen switch state detection method according to any one of claims 4 to 6, further comprising a notification step of notifying the fact by a notification means when detecting that the pen switch state is on. The pen switch state detection method according to claim 7, wherein the notification is performed in a scene where the input device does not input using the touch pen. 9. The method according to claim 4, further comprising a determination step of determining that a defect has occurred in the touch pen when a predetermined position determined in advance from the input device is input to the main body device as the input position. The pen switch state detection method of crab. The pen switch state detection method according to claim 9, wherein the determination is performed in a scene where the input device does not input using the touch pen. A photo vending machine comprising the pen switch state detection member according to claim 1,
An image input means for accepting input of a photographed image;
A touch pen whose pen switch state is turned on by pushing the pen shaft at the tip,
Receiving means for detecting the position of the touch pen within a detection range, determining the position of the touch pen when the pen switch state is on as an input position, and receiving an editing operation on the captured image;
Output means for outputting the edited photographed image,
The pen switch state detecting member is a photo vending machine used for detecting a pen switch state of the touch pen. An image input step for accepting input of a captured image;
Detects the position of the touch pen when the touch pen that is turned on by pressing the pen shaft at the tip is within the detection range, and inputs the position of the touch pen when the pen switch is turned on An accepting step for accepting an editing operation on the captured image by determining a position;
In the photo vending method including an output step of outputting the edited photographed image,
11. A photo vending method comprising the steps included in the pen switch state detection method according to claim 4 and detecting the pen switch state. An acquisition means for acquiring the pen switch state of a touch pen whose pen switch state is turned on by pushing the pen shaft of the tip part;
Holding means for holding the touch pen at a predetermined distance from the touch surface so that the tip portion of the touch pen does not touch the touch surface provided relative to the tip portion;
When the acquisition unit acquires that the pen switch state of the touch pen held by the holding unit is on, the pen switch state notification device includes a control unit that controls to notify the notification unit of the fact. .

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