JP2005051647A - Image transmission system and method, and imaging apparatus, record medium, terminal equipment and server utilized in the system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To correspond to memory cards of various formats. <P>SOLUTION: Main picture data obtained by photography by a camera 10, a picture ID and a user ID are transmitted to a server instrument 40. The picture ID and the user ID recorded in a memory card 50 are read by terminal equipment 30 in a contact-free manner. The terminal equipment 30 transmits image data request containing the picture ID and the user ID to the server instrument 40, so that the server instrument 40 answers the request and transmits corresponding main picture data to the terminal equipment 30. A main picture is printed in the terminal equipment 30. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an image transmission system and method for transmitting image data obtained by photographing with an imaging device such as a digital camera (including a still camera and a video camera) to a terminal device for printing and other image processing, and The present invention relates to an imaging device such as a digital camera, a recording medium such as a memory card, a terminal device, and a server (mediation device) that are preferably used in this image transmission system.

  Image data obtained by photographing (imaging) with an imaging device including a digital camera is generally recorded on a recording medium (such as a memory card) that is detachable from the imaging device. Using the image data in the recording medium, a print image can be created by a store printer installed in a store or a printer installed in a home. In order to use image data stored in a recording medium in a printer or a terminal device equipped with a printer, the recording medium must be mounted or inserted into the printer or terminal device.

  In recent years, many types of recording media with different sizes and connector shapes have been developed and put on the market. In order to be able to use some of these different types of recording media, the printer or terminal device must be provided with openings (insertion ports or mounting ports) that are compatible with each recording medium. There are problems such as an increase in size and cost.

Patent Document 1 discloses a system that connects an image supply terminal installed in a sightseeing spot and a print terminal in a store or home via a communication network. The image supply terminal stores image data of a photograph taken in advance at a sightseeing spot and reduced image data of the photograph in association with each other. Reduced image data is transferred from the image supply terminal to the digital camera and stored in the memory card of the digital camera. When the memory card is removed from the digital camera and inserted into the print terminal, the print terminal reads the reduced image data stored in the memory card, downloads the corresponding image data from the image supply terminal, and uses the downloaded image data to take a picture. To print.
JP 2002-311516 A

  Even in the above prior art, the memory card must be inserted into the print terminal, and the above-mentioned problems are not solved.

  An advantage of a recording medium such as a memory card is that it is easy to carry. A limitation of printing a print image (photograph) in the terminal device is that the printed photo must be received. Therefore, it is preferable to bring the recording medium to a place where the print terminal device is installed, print on the spot, and receive a print image. This is the same whether the print terminal device is installed in the store or the printer is at home.

  In the present invention, a recording medium is held at a terminal device, and image processing (typically print processing, display processing, etc.) in the terminal device can be performed on the spot. In this case, even if the recording medium has various different forms, it is not necessary to provide the terminal device with an opening adapted to each of them.

  The present invention provides an image transmission system and method that achieve the above object.

  The present invention also provides an imaging device, a recording medium, a terminal device, and a server (mediation device) suitable for constructing the image transmission system or implementing the method.

  An image transmission system according to the present invention includes an imaging device with a removable recording medium, a terminal device having image processing functions such as image printing and display, or controlling image processing, and between the imaging device and the terminal device. And an intermediary device (preferably a server) that mediates the exchange of image data.

  In the following, the configuration of each of these devices will be described independently.

  The imaging apparatus includes a coupling means for electrically connecting the recording medium when the recording medium is detachable, an imaging means for photographing the medium and outputting image data obtained by the photography, and the imaging means Image ID generating means for generating an image ID for image data representing each image to be output, image data output from the imaging means, and correspondingly stored image ID generated from the image ID generating means Image data storage control means to be stored in the storage means, storage medium control means for writing at least the image ID generated from the image ID generation means on the recording medium, and image data and image ID stored in association with the storage means. Output means for outputting to an external device together with the user ID is provided.

  The imaging device typically includes a digital still camera, a digital movie camera, and the like. The recording medium typically includes a memory card, a memory cartridge, and the like. The external device corresponds to the mediation device (server). The coupling means includes a contact type connector.

  The storage means may be a memory in the imaging apparatus or the recording medium (non-volatile memory to be described later in the recording medium). When the storage means is the recording medium, the image data storage control means is included in the recording medium control means. That is, the recording medium control unit writes the image data output from the imaging unit and the image ID generated from the image ID generation unit in association with the image data to the recording medium.

  The image ID specifies image data for each shot (each image) and may include a frame number, or may be stored by assigning a frame number to the image data separately from the image ID. Good.

  The user ID identifies the user and is stored in the recording medium or stored in the imaging device. Preferably, the intermediary device is accessed from the user's personal computer, the user ID is registered in the intermediary device (the user ID is preferably generated by the intermediary device), and the personal computer writes the user ID into the non-volatile memory of the recording medium. Keep in mind. The imaging device acquires a user ID from the recording medium. Address information (such as a URL) of an intermediary device to be described later is also recorded on the recording medium by a personal computer.

  The output means is generally a transmission means, and transmits image data, an image ID, and a user ID to an external device (mediation device) regardless of wired or wireless. A transmission button may be provided in the imaging device (including a mode in which a transmission button is displayed on the display screen), and transmission of the various data may be started in response to pressing (touch) of the transmission button. The transmission operation in the imaging apparatus may be started in response to the transmission command from The output of image data may be performed one image at a time, or several images may be performed together.

  In one embodiment, the imaging device is further provided with output clarification means for giving output data indicating that the image data output by the output means has already been output. As a result, it can be determined whether the image data has already been output, so that the image data described below can be erased correctly.

  In other words, in another embodiment, the imaging apparatus is further provided with image data erasing means for erasing image data to which output data has been assigned by the output clarification means. Since the output image data is deleted, the capacity of the storage means of the imaging device or the nonvolatile memory of the recording medium can be used effectively.

  It is preferable to delete the image data when the number of images that can be stored in the storage means or the recording medium decreases (when the storage capacity falls below a predetermined value). In this case, the image data is automatically deleted. In response to the fact that the memory capacity has been reduced or the frame number or image ID of the erasable image is displayed and the user confirms that the erasure confirmation button (including the erasure confirmation button on the display screen) has been pressed. May be erased. Even when the storable capacity is not small, the image data of the confirmed image may be erased in response to pressing of the erase confirmation button. Regardless of whether the image data has already been output, the corresponding image data may be deleted in response to the user's confirmation of image specification and deletion.

  The recording medium includes at least address information for accessing an external device, a non-volatile memory for storing a user ID and an image ID, and at least an image sent from the imaging device when the imaging device is mounted. Memory control means for controlling writing of the ID into the non-volatile memory and reading of the address information, user ID and image ID from the non-volatile memory, and non-contact data communication with an external device. Non-contact interface means for outputting address information, user ID and image ID read from the nonvolatile memory is provided. As described above, the external device corresponds to the mediation device, and the external device corresponds to the terminal device.

  As described above, the address information is for accessing an external device (mediation device), and is a URL when the external device is a server on the Internet. As described above, the user ID is preferably stored in advance in a recording medium by a personal computer. The user ID is registered in advance in the external device.

  In terms of the function of the recording medium in the present invention, it is sufficient if the image ID is stored in the non-volatile memory of the recording medium, and it is not always necessary to store the image data. Controls to store image data representing each image sent from the imaging device in the nonvolatile memory in association with the image ID.

  The non-contact type interface means generally includes an antenna such as a coil, and is coupled with electromagnetic induction in a state close to the non-contact type interface means of a terminal device (external device) to be described later to send the above various data. Preferably, power is supplied by electromagnetic induction from a terminal device (external device), address information, user ID, and image ID are read from the nonvolatile memory and sent out by electromagnetic induction.

  The terminal device is capable of data communication with the recording medium in a non-contact manner, and contacts information stored in the recording medium for accessing an external device, a user ID, and an image ID. Image request transmitting means for transmitting an image request with the user ID and image ID to the external device accessed by the address information read by the non-contact type interface means, and the external device in response to the image request. Image data receiving means for receiving the transmitted image data corresponding to the user ID and the image ID is provided. The external device corresponds to the mediation device (server).

  The terminal device only needs to be able to communicate with an external device (mediation device) regardless of whether it is wired or wireless (including a network such as the Internet). Further, the terminal device may be a printer, may have an image printer function or an image display function, or may send image data to a separately provided printer or display device to control it. Good.

  As described above, the non-contact type interface means is coupled to the non-contact type interface means of the recording medium by electromagnetic induction and exchanges data, preferably the non-contact type of the recording medium by electromagnetic induction. Power is supplied to the interface means for its operation.

  An intermediary device (external device) (server) is a receiving unit that receives image data and an image ID associated with each other held by the imaging device together with a user ID, image data received by the receiving unit, an image ID, and a user ID. In response to an image request transmitted from a terminal device with a user ID and an image ID, the user ID and the image data associated with the image ID are read from the storage unit and stored in the storage unit. A transmission means for transmitting to the terminal device is provided.

  The receiving means of the mediation device may be any device that receives image data, image ID, and user ID directly or indirectly from the imaging device. For example, image data or the like may be transmitted from the imaging device to a personal computer, and the mediating device may receive the image data or the like from the personal computer. In this case, it is possible to select image data to be transmitted to the mediation device in the personal computer. This personal computer may be included in the mediation apparatus. In one embodiment, the mediation device is a server on the Internet. The mediation device may be a server in the home. Communication between the mediation device and the imaging device may be wired or wireless (may be through a network such as the Internet, a home network, or a public line).

  In one embodiment, the terminal apparatus transmits thumbnail image request transmission means for transmitting a thumbnail image request with the user ID and the image ID, and the thumbnail image data transmitted from the mediating apparatus in response to the thumbnail image request. A thumbnail image data receiving means for receiving, and a display selecting means for displaying a thumbnail image represented by the thumbnail image data received by the thumbnail image data receiving means and accepting a selection by a user, wherein the image request transmitting means is the display An image request for image data corresponding to the selected thumbnail image received by the selection means is transmitted.

  In this case, in response to the thumbnail image request transmitted from the terminal device with the user ID and the image ID, the mediation device obtains the thumbnail image data corresponding to the image data associated with the user ID and the image ID. It further includes thumbnail image data transmission means for transmitting to the terminal device.

  The thumbnail image data may be created from the image data by the mediation device, or the thumbnail image data transmitted from the imaging device may be used if the thumbnail image data is transmitted from the imaging device. A thumbnail image is a reduced version of an image obtained from an imaging device, and has a smaller amount of image data than image data of one image. In order to distinguish from thumbnail image data, the above-described image and image data obtained from the imaging device (including processed images) may be referred to as main image and main image data.

  In a further preferred embodiment, the terminal device further comprises print means for printing an image based on the image data received by the image data receiving means.

  The operation of the entire image transmission system according to the present invention will be briefly described in accordance with its form. In the imaging apparatus, an image ID is generated for image data obtained by shooting, and on the other hand, the generated image ID and image data are Are written in the recording medium (image data may not be written in the recording medium), and on the other hand, the image data and the image ID are output together with the user ID to the mediation apparatus.

  In the recording medium, the image data and the image ID sent from the imaging device are written on the nonvolatile memory when the recording device is attached to the imaging device, and the nonvolatile memory reads from the nonvolatile memory when approaching the terminal device. The address information, user ID, and image ID are read out and sent to the terminal device without contact.

  In the terminal device, the address information, user ID, and image ID held by the recording medium are read in a non-contact manner, the mediation device is accessed by the read address information, and an image request accompanied by the user ID and image ID is performed. Send.

  The intermediary device receives the image data and the image ID associated with each other held by the imaging device together with the user ID, stores the received image data, the image ID, and the user ID in association with each other. In response to an image request transmitted from the terminal device with an image ID, the user ID and image data associated with the image ID are transmitted to the terminal device.

  Then, the terminal device receives the image data corresponding to the user ID and the image ID transmitted from the mediation device in response to the image request. As a result, the terminal device can create a print image using the received image data.

  As described above, according to the present invention, the user can bring the recording medium to the location of the terminal device, obtain desired image data there, and perform printing or the like. Moreover, it is not necessary to provide the terminal device with an insertion port (mounting port) suitable for various types of recording media. It is sufficient if the recording medium and the terminal device are provided with a non-contact type interface means, so that the cost can be reduced and operability can be simplified. Since the image data is not transferred using the recording medium as a medium, but is transferred from the imaging device to the terminal device through the mediation device, it is possible to deal with large-capacity still image and moving image data.

  The present invention further includes a system comprising an imaging device and a recording medium, a system comprising an imaging device and an intermediary device (including a case where a personal computer is interposed), a system comprising a recording medium and a terminal device, a terminal device and an intermediary device, A system comprising an imaging device and a terminal device, a system comprising an imaging device, a recording medium and a terminal device, a system comprising an imaging device, a recording medium and an intermediary device, a recording medium, an intermediary device and a terminal device A combination of a system consisting of an imaging device, a mediating device, and a terminal device is also provided.

  FIG. 1 shows the overall configuration of an embodiment of an image transmission system.

  Main image data for each main image (each frame) obtained by imaging by the digital camera 10 is recorded in the memory card 50 in association with an image ID generated in the camera 10 for each main image. The camera 10 has a wireless communication function, and main image data, a corresponding image ID, and a user ID are transmitted from the camera 10 to the server device 40 via the wireless access point 41.

  On the other hand, the user goes to the location of the terminal device 30 installed in the store with the memory card 50 removed from the camera, and brings the memory card 50 closer to the terminal device 30. The terminal device 30 reads the URL (address information), the user ID, and the image ID (including a plurality of cases) of the server device 40 from the memory card 50 by a non-contact type interface described later.

  The terminal device 30 accesses the server device 40 via the network (Internet) using the read URL, and transmits a thumbnail image request (signal) with a user ID and an image ID. In response to this, the server device 40 transmits thumbnail image data specified by the user ID and the image ID to the terminal device 30.

  The terminal device 30 displays the thumbnail image on the display device based on the received thumbnail image data. The user selects a desired thumbnail image. Then, since the terminal device 30 transmits a main image request with an image ID and a user ID corresponding to the selected thumbnail image to the server device 40, the server device 40 responds with the image ID and the user ID. The main image data specified by is transmitted to the terminal device 30. The terminal device 30 can receive the main image data and thereby create a print image.

  FIG. 2 shows the configuration of the digital camera 10. A video signal representing a captured main image output from a solid-state image pickup device 12 such as a CCD is supplied to an image processing device 13, and A / D conversion, white balance adjustment, gamma correction, and image data compression are performed using a buffer memory 14. Various image data processing such as these are added. Also, thumbnail image data is created by reducing the data amount of the main image data. An image captured based on the video signal or image data is displayed on the display device 17. Each time the main image is taken, the CPU 11 generates a frame number and an image ID. The frame number is a serial number. The image ID is a unique code for each main image, and for example, a random number, date and time (including minutes and seconds), etc. are used. The compressed image data, thumbnail image data, frame number, and image ID of the main image are stored in the memory card 50 via the card interface 16. The card interface 16 includes a connector.

  The compressed image data of the main image (and its thumbnail image data if necessary) is transmitted to the server device 40 through the wireless access point 41 by the wireless interface 15 together with the image ID and user ID. The transmission of the main image data or the like may be performed every time shooting is performed, or may be performed when the transmission button of the operation unit 18 is pressed. The wireless interface 15 has an automatic dialing function to the server device 40. Alternatively, the server device 40 may be configured to turn on the power of the camera 10 and read main image data from the camera 10 when the camera 10 enters the wireless communication range. Instead of the wireless interface 15, a wired interface for transmitting image data or the like to the server device 40 through a USB cable may be provided. The user ID obtained by the CPU 11 is stored in the memory card 50.

  The digital camera 10 is an imaging device. The card interface 16 corresponds to a coupling means. The CPU 11 corresponds to the image ID generation means. The card interface 16 (and possibly including the CPU 11) corresponds to the image data storage control means and the recording medium control means. The image data storage control means may be realized by the CPU 11. The wireless interface 15 corresponds to output means.

  The CPU 11 and the card interface 16 also have a function of an output completion means, and add output data (such as a flag) to the image data transmitted to the server device 40. The CPU 11, the card interface 16, and the operation unit 18 (also the display device 17 if necessary) constitute image data erasing means, and the output main image data in response to the erasure command from the operation unit 18 is a memory card. Erase from 50.

  FIG. 3 shows the configuration of the memory card 50. A nonvolatile memory 51 is provided in the memory card 50, and writing and reading of main image data, thumbnail image data, image ID, and the like to the nonvolatile memory 51 are controlled by a memory control circuit 52. When main image data, thumbnail image data, and image ID are sent from the digital camera 10 through the connector 53, these data are written into the nonvolatile memory 51 by the memory control circuit 52. The memory control circuit 52 corresponds to memory control means.

  The non-contact type interface means includes a non-contact interface control circuit 54 and a coiled electromagnetic induction antenna 55. As will be described later, when the memory card 50 approaches the non-contact interface 32 (see FIG. 6) of the terminal device 30, the non-contact type interface control circuit 54 and the memory control circuit are supplied by electric power supplied from the terminal device 30 by electromagnetic induction. 52 operates, and the memory control circuit 52 reads the image ID, the user ID, and the URL of the server device 40 from the nonvolatile memory 51, and sends these data from the antenna 55 to the terminal device 30 by electromagnetic induction.

  FIG. 4 shows a data structure in the nonvolatile memory 51. In the non-volatile memory 51, main image data, image ID, and thumbnail image data are stored in association with each other (for example, by frame numbers such as # 1 and # 2). There is no need for thumbnail image data. A user ID is stored in the nonvolatile memory 51. The user ID is written when the memory card 50 is registered in the server device 40 by a personal computer, and the same user ID is also stored in the server device 40. At this time, the URL (address information) of the server device 50 can be included in or added to the user ID. At this time, the URL of the server device 40 may be recorded in the nonvolatile memory 51 together with the user ID. The user ID and the URL of the server device 40 may be registered in the camera 10. That is, the camera 10 is registered in the server device 40.

  All data (range indicated by A) in the nonvolatile memory 51 is an area accessible by the card interface 16 of the camera 10. The areas accessible by the non-contact interface control circuit 54 are user ID (and URL), image ID, and thumbnail image data as indicated by B.

  FIG. 5 shows examples of user IDs and image IDs. The upper part of FIG. 5 shows an example of the user ID. The lower part of FIG. 5 shows an example of an image ID, which is composed of a number 945187, which is a random number, and Storage Service XX.co.jp, which is the URL of the server device 40. In this way, the URL of the server device 40 may be included in the image ID. Alternatively, the server URL (address information) may be included as part of the user ID, or the server URL may be added to the user ID.

  FIG. 6 shows a configuration example of the terminal device 30. The terminal device 30 includes a system control device 31 that controls the overall operation, a non-contact interface 32, a wired communication interface 33, a memory 34, a reproduction processing device 35, a printing device (printer) 36, and a display device 37. And an operation unit 38.

  The non-contact interface 32 includes a coil antenna, supplies operating power to the memory card 50 by electromagnetic induction when the memory card 50 approaches, and reads a user ID and an image ID (including URL) from the memory card 50. The read data is stored in the memory 34. The non-contact interface 32 corresponds to non-contact type interface means.

  The wired communication interface 33 communicates with the server device 40 via a network, transmits thumbnail image requests and main image requests, and receives thumbnail image data and main image data. Therefore, the wired communication interface 33, together with the system control device 31, functions as an image request transmission unit, an image data reception unit, a thumbnail image request transmission unit, and a thumbnail image data reception unit. The received main image data and thumbnail image data are stored in the memory 34.

  The reproduction processing device 35 decompresses the compressed main image data received and stored in the memory 34, converts it into image data suitable for display, and gives it to the display device 37, or an image suitable for printing (printing). The data is converted and supplied to a printing device (printer) 36.

  The display device 37 displays thumbnail images and main images. The user selects a desired thumbnail image from the displayed thumbnail images using the operation unit 38. Therefore, the display device 37 and the operation unit 38 constitute display selection means.

  The printing device 36 prints an image represented by main image data and corresponds to a printing unit.

  The server device 40 is a computer system and includes a storage device and a communication device. These realize storage means, reception means, transmission means, and thumbnail image data transmission means.

  FIG. 7 shows operations of the digital camera 10, the server device 40, and the terminal device 30.

  The user turns on the power from the operation unit 18 of the digital camera 10 (S11), and photographs the subject with the digital camera 10 (S12). Main image data is obtained by photographing. A thumbnail image is generated based on the obtained main image data. At this time, the CPU 11 generates a unique image ID for the obtained main image data. The main image data, thumbnail image data, and image ID are associated with each other and written to the memory card 50 (S13). The CPU 11 of the digital camera 10 acquires the user ID and the URL of the server device 40 from the memory card 50. The generated main image data, thumbnail image data, and image ID are also stored in the buffer memory 14 in association with each other.

  The user sets the wireless communication mode using the operation unit 18 of the digital camera 10 (S14). When the user presses the transmission button of the operation unit 18, the main image data, thumbnail image data, and image ID stored in the buffer memory 14 of the digital camera 10 together with the user ID pass through the wireless access point 41 by the wireless interface 15 and the server device. It is transmitted to 40 (S15). The main image data, thumbnail image data, image ID, and user ID may be read from the memory card 50 and transmitted to the server device 40.

  Shooting of the subject (generation of main image data) and transmission of the main image data and the like to the server device 40 depend on user operations. The user may capture the desired number of main images and then transmit the obtained main image data or the like to the server device 40, or may transmit to the server device 40 each time one frame of image data is obtained. Good. Of course, the camera 10 may automatically transmit main image data or the like to the server device 40 every time it is photographed, or the server device 40 gives a transmission command to the camera 10 when the camera 10 enters the communicable range. It can also be done.

  The server device 40 receives the main image data, thumbnail image data, image ID, and user ID for one frame or a plurality of frames transmitted from the digital camera 10 via the wireless access point 41 (S41), and corresponds to the user ID. The main image data, thumbnail image data, and image ID are associated with each other and stored in the storage device (or database device) (S42).

  In the digital camera 10, when main image data or the like is transmitted to the server device 40, the attribute of the transmitted main image data stored in the buffer memory 14 or the memory card 50 is set to be erasable (for example, the An erasable flag is set for the main image data) (ST16). When the amount of image data stored in the buffer memory 14 or the memory card 50 exceeds a predetermined amount of data (YES in S17), the main image data that can be deleted is deleted from the buffer memory 14 or the memory card 50. (S18). As a result, the buffer memory 14 or the memory card 50 is always kept in a state where main image data can be stored. The processing of ST16 to ST18 may be performed on the main image data of the buffer memory 14 or may be performed on the main image data of the memory card 50.

  The thumbnail image or frame number of the main image data whose attribute is erasable may be displayed on the display device 17, and the main image data may be erased after the confirmation input by the user. Needless to say, the main image data whose attributes are not erasable may be erased in response to the user's confirmation of erasure.

  Finally, the user turns off the camera 10 (ST19) and removes the memory card 50 from the camera 10.

  The user then brings the memory card 50 removed from the camera 10 to a store that performs development service, print service, etc., and the memory card 50 is contactless interface of the terminal device 30 installed in the store. It is brought close to 32 (S31). As described above, the non-contact interface 32 of the terminal device 30 reads the user ID and the image ID from the memory card 50 and stores them in the memory 34 (S32). The terminal device 30 creates a thumbnail request message using the user ID and image ID read from the memory card 50, and transmits a thumbnail request to the server device 40 via the network from the wired communication interface 33 (S33).

  When the server device 40 receives a thumbnail request transmitted from the terminal device 30 via the network (S43), the server device 40 stores the thumbnail image data specified by the user ID and the image ID included in the thumbnail request in the storage device (or The data is read from the database device) and transmitted to the terminal device 30 via the network (S44). If the server device 40 does not hold thumbnail image data, thumbnail image data is created from the main image data. The terminal device 30 receives the thumbnail image data transmitted from the server device 40 by the wired communication interface 33, stores it in the memory 34, and displays it on the display device 37 (S34). The user selects an image to be printed from the thumbnail images displayed on the display device 37 of the terminal device 30 (S35). The terminal device 30 creates a main image data request message including the user ID and image ID for specifying the image data corresponding to the selected thumbnail image, and transmits this message to the server device 40 via the network via the wired communication interface 33. (S36).

  Upon receiving the main image data request from the terminal device 30 (S45), the server device 40 transmits the main image data specified by the user ID and the image ID included in the main image data request to the terminal device 30 via the network. (S46).

  The terminal device 30 receives the main image data transmitted from the server device 40 (S37), performs printing processing by the printing device 36, and outputs a print image (S38, S39). Thereby, the user can obtain a desired main image print image.

  FIG. 8 shows the overall configuration of another embodiment of the image transmission system. A personal computer 42 is provided for transmission of main image data and the like between the digital camera 10 and the server device 40. The personal computer 42 may be generally installed at the user's home or may be installed at a store.

  FIG. 9 shows the operation of the system shown in FIG. 8, and the same processes as those shown in FIG. Further, illustration of processing of the terminal device shown in FIG. 7 is omitted.

  The digital camera 10 communicates with the personal computer 42 (the camera 10 has address information of the personal computer 42 or is acquired from the memory card 50), and the main image data and thumbnail image data together with the image ID and user ID are stored in the personal computer. It transmits to 42 (S15).

  The personal computer 42 receives the main image data, thumbnail image data, image ID, and user ID transmitted from the digital camera 10, and stores them in its memory (S47, S48). The user can display the image on the display device on the personal computer 42 based on the received main image data or thumbnail image data, and select an image suitable for or desired to be printed from the image.

  When the user selects a desired image and a transmission command is given, the personal computer 42 transmits the selected main image data, thumbnail image data, image ID, and user ID to the server device 40 (S49). When the user does not select an image, all the main image data transmitted from the digital camera 10 is transmitted from the personal computer 42 to the server device 40 (S49).

  When the user selects a desired image on the personal computer 42, processing and operation for displaying a thumbnail image on the terminal device 30 and selecting the desired image by the user, and operation for the server device 40 to transmit thumbnail image data (S33, S35, S43, S44 in FIG. 7) will be unnecessary.

  FIG. 10 shows the overall configuration of still another embodiment of the image transmission system. This embodiment is an example of a home printer system.

  In comparison with the system shown in FIG. 1, the terminal device 30 is replaced with a printer device 30A, the server device 40 is replaced with a home server device 40A, and the Internet network is replaced with a home network (such as a LAN). The operations of the printer device 30A and home server device 40A are basically the same as the operations of the terminal device 30 and server device 40. As described above, the image transmission system according to the present invention can be constructed at home or in a school, a company, or the like.

1 shows an overall configuration of an embodiment of an image transmission system. It is a block diagram which shows the electric constitution of a digital camera. It is a block diagram which shows the electric constitution of a memory card. 2 shows a data structure in a nonvolatile memory of a memory card. An example of a user ID and an image ID is shown. It is a block diagram which shows the electric constitution of a terminal device. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the digital camera, server apparatus, and terminal device in one Example. 2 shows the overall configuration of another embodiment of the image transmission system. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement of the digital camera in another Example, the personal computer 42, and a server apparatus. The whole structure of the further another Example of an image transmission system is shown.

Explanation of symbols

10 Digital camera
11 CPU
14 Buffer memory
15 Radio interface
16 card interface
30 Terminal equipment
30A Printer device
31 System controller
32 contactless interface
33 Wired communication interface
34 memory
36 Printer
37 Display device
38 Operation unit
40, 40A server device
42 Personal computer
50 memory card
51 Nonvolatile memory
52 Memory control circuit
54 Non-contact interface control circuit
55 Electromagnetic induction antenna

Claims (12)

An imaging device for photographing a subject and recording image data obtained by photographing on a removable recording medium, a terminal device capable of data communication with the recording medium when the recording medium approaches, and data communication with the terminal device And an intermediary device that transmits image data held by the imaging device to the terminal device,
The imaging device
Image ID generating means for generating an image ID for image data obtained by photographing;
Recording medium control means for associating the image data with the image ID generated from the image ID generation means in association with the image data, and writing to the recording medium;
Image data stored in association with the recording medium and output means for outputting the image ID together with a user ID to the mediation device;
The above recording medium is
A non-volatile memory for storing at least address information for accessing the mediating device, a user ID, image data, and an image ID;
Writing the image data and image ID sent from the imaging device to the non-volatile memory and reading the address information, user ID and image ID from the non-volatile memory when mounted on the imaging device. Memory control means to control;
First contactless interface means capable of non-contact data communication with the terminal device and outputting address information, user ID and image ID read from the nonvolatile memory to the terminal device;
The terminal device
A second non-contact type interface means capable of non-contact data communication with the recording medium and reading the address information, user ID and image ID held by the recording medium;
Image request transmitting means for transmitting an image request with the user ID and the image ID to the intermediary device accessed by the address information read by the second non-contact type interface means;
Image data receiving means for receiving image data corresponding to the user ID and image ID transmitted from the mediating device in response to the image request;
The intermediary device
Receiving means for receiving the image data and the image ID associated with each other held by the imaging apparatus together with the user ID;
Storage means for storing the image data, the image ID, and the user ID received by the receiving means in association with each other;
In response to an image request transmitted from the terminal device with a user ID and an image ID, transmission means for reading out the image data associated with the user ID and the image ID from the storage means and transmitting the image data to the terminal device. Have,
Image transmission system. An imaging device for photographing a subject and recording image data obtained by photographing on a removable recording medium, a terminal device capable of data communication with the recording medium when the recording medium approaches, and data communication with the terminal device In an image transmission system that is configured to include an intermediary device that transmits image data held by the imaging device to the terminal device,
In the above imaging device,
An image ID is generated for image data obtained by shooting,
Write the generated image ID and image data in association with each other on the recording medium,
Output the image data and image ID together with the user ID to the mediation device,
In the above recording medium,
When mounted on the imaging device, the image data and the image ID sent from the imaging device are written to a nonvolatile memory;
When approaching the terminal device, the address information, user ID and image ID are read out from the nonvolatile memory and sent to the terminal device in a contactless manner.
In the above terminal device,
Reading the address information, user ID and image ID held by the recording medium in a non-contact manner;
Access the intermediary device with the read address information, send an image request with the user ID and image ID,
In response to the image request, the image data corresponding to the user ID and the image ID transmitted from the mediation device is received,
In the intermediary device,
The image data and the image ID, which are associated with each other and held by the imaging device, are received together with the user ID,
Store the received image data, image ID, and user ID in association with each other,
In response to an image request transmitted from the terminal device with a user ID and an image ID, image data associated with the user ID and the image ID is transmitted to the terminal device.
Image transmission method. A coupling means for detachably attaching the recording medium and electrically connecting the recording medium when the recording medium is mounted;
Imaging means for photographing a subject and outputting image data obtained by photographing,
Image ID generating means for generating an image ID for image data representing each image output from the imaging means;
Image data storage control means for associating the image data output from the image pickup means with the image ID generated from the image ID generation means correspondingly stored in the storage means;
Recording medium control means for writing at least an image ID generated from the image ID generation means to a recording medium, and output means for outputting image data and image ID stored in association with each other to the external device together with the user ID ,
An imaging apparatus comprising:   The imaging apparatus according to claim 3, further comprising output completion indicating means for assigning output data indicating that the image data output by the output means has been output.   The imaging apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising image data erasing means for erasing image data to which output data is given by the output completion clarification means.   The imaging apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the storage unit is a recording medium, and the image data storage control unit is the recording medium control unit. A nonvolatile memory for storing at least address information for accessing an external device, a user ID, and an image ID;
Memory control for controlling writing of at least an image ID sent from the imaging device to the nonvolatile memory and reading of the address information, user ID, and image ID from the nonvolatile memory when mounted on the imaging device And non-contact type interface means capable of non-contact data communication with an external device and outputting address information, user ID and image ID read from the nonvolatile memory to the external device,
A recording medium comprising: Non-contact interface means capable of non-contact data communication with a recording medium and reading address information, user ID, and image ID for accessing an external device held by the recording medium,
Image request transmitting means for transmitting an image request with the user ID and the image ID to an external device accessed by the address information read by the non-contact type interface means, and the external device in response to the image request Image data receiving means for receiving image data corresponding to the user ID and image ID transmitted from
A terminal device comprising: Thumbnail image request transmission means for transmitting a thumbnail image request with the user ID and image ID;
In response to the thumbnail image request, a thumbnail image data receiving means for receiving thumbnail image data transmitted from the external device, and a thumbnail image represented by the thumbnail image data received by the thumbnail image data receiving means, A display selection means for accepting selection by the user;
The image request transmission means transmits an image request for image data corresponding to the selected thumbnail image received by the display selection means.
The terminal device according to claim 8.   The terminal device according to claim 8, further comprising a printing unit that prints an image based on the image data received by the image data receiving unit. Receiving means for receiving image data and image ID associated with each other held by the imaging apparatus together with a user ID;
In response to the image request transmitted from the terminal device with the user ID and the image ID, the user ID and the image ID in response to the storage unit that stores the image data, the image ID, and the user ID associated with each other. Transmitting means for reading the image data associated with the storage means and transmitting it to the terminal device;
A server with   In response to a thumbnail image request transmitted from a terminal device with a user ID and an image ID, thumbnail image data transmission corresponding to the user ID and image data associated with the image ID is transmitted to the terminal device. The server according to claim 11, further comprising means.

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