JP2005091937A - Automatic photograph vending machine and method, computer program and image forming medium - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an automatic photograph vending machine constituted so that a photographing space for photographing an object can be automatically made in an opened/closed state. <P>SOLUTION: Regarding the photograph vending machine 100, after the end of photographing, a side curtain 42 is wound up, that is, the side curtain 42 is elevated and the photographing space 3 is made in an opened state. And also, the opened state is kept when monitoring the reception of the charge before photographing (Fig.(a)). On the other hand, in the case of starting a normal photographing play after receiving the charge, the side curtain 42 is let out, that is, the side curtain 42 descends, and the photographing space 3 is made in a closed state (Fig.(b)). <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a photo vending machine, a photo vending method, and a computer program for controlling a photo vending machine that take an image of a subject including a user and output an image of the taken subject to an image forming medium such as sticker paper. The present invention also relates to an image forming medium used in a photographic vending machine.

  2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, a large number of photo vending machines have been installed in game centers and the like for photographing a subject and outputting the photographed image to an image forming medium such as a sticker print. In general, such a photo vending machine takes a subject including a user with a camera or the like, causes the user to edit the taken image, outputs the edited image with a printer, and provides it as a sticker print. is there.

  Such a photo vending machine has a side curtain at the entrance of the shooting space to prevent the leakage of light such as a flash provided in the apparatus and to ensure the privacy of the user. Each has a background curtain at a position that is the background of the subject. In general, a manual curtain is used as the background curtain, but in recent years, a photo vending machine equipped with an automatic curtain or a roll screen that automatically operates according to a user's selection has been put into practical use. On the other hand, the side curtain is normally closed or a manual type is used.

Also, a side curtain that responds to the demands of securing a private space and monitoring for crime prevention by providing a partially translucent curtain on the side of the photo vending machine is disclosed (for example, patent document) 1).
JP 2002-318421 A

  By the way, when the side curtain provided in the photo vending machine is a manual type, the previous user does not always open the side curtain properly after the end of play and open the shooting space, Even if the user is not playing, there is a possibility that the user is in a closed state, and it is difficult to easily understand how the inside is. Therefore, there is a possibility that a trouble may occur with the user (advance customer) who is looking inside the side curtain for the purpose of checking whether or not the current shooting is being performed and shooting inside. Therefore, it was necessary for an administrator (such as a store clerk) to go around regularly to check the state of the side curtain.

  The degree of beauty of photos output on sticker paper is one of the important factors that determine customer satisfaction, that is, one of the criteria for using photo vending machines. In general, a high-luminance lighting device is provided so that a beautiful image can be taken. Therefore, people who do not play properly such as illegally using the illumination light of a photo vending machine and shooting using a mobile phone with a camera, etc. enter the shooting space and occupy the photo vending machine. There was a problem that the customer turnover rate declined because of the customer was not able to play. This is because the side curtain can be easily opened and closed regardless of whether or not the apparatus is used. Once the side curtain is closed, it is difficult to check whether there is a person in the shooting space. Moreover, it is more difficult to confirm whether or not the person in the shooting space is the original customer.

  Furthermore, when the side curtain is slidable, when the side curtain is slid to open the entrance (open state), the side curtain is bulky, so an extra space is taken up and the appearance is increased. There was a problem that the impression was bad.

  Furthermore, in order to notify the internal usage status, such as whether there are other users inside, a photo auto provided with a usage status notification display plate that notifies the user that shooting is in progress. There are vending machines, but there is a problem that it is difficult to understand at a glance because the display is small.

  In spite of the above-mentioned problems, the side curtain has a function of shielding the light at the time of shooting and is an essential component for ensuring the privacy of the user at the time of shooting, and it cannot be removed. .

  Further, as in Patent Document 1 described above, even if a curtain that is partially translucent is provided, it is difficult to determine whether or not shooting is being performed. It is very difficult to tell whether or not you are a customer.

  The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and the imaging space is automatically opened by controlling the imaging space to an open state or a closed state by a shielding unit that shields the imaging space for imaging the subject. It is an object of the present invention to provide a photo vending machine that can make the inside of the shooting space visible from the outside, or can close the shooting space so that the inside of the shooting space cannot be seen from the outside.

  The present invention also provides a photo vending method in such a photo vending machine, a computer program for realizing the function as such a photo vending machine with a computer, and an image used in such a photo vending machine. An object is to provide a forming medium.

  A photo vending machine according to the present invention outputs a photographing means for photographing a subject, a shielding means for shielding a photographing space for photographing the subject by the photographing means, and an image of the subject photographed by the photographing means to an image forming medium. A vending machine including output means for controlling the photographing space to be opened or closed by the shielding means.

  In the photo vending machine according to the present invention, the photographing space for photographing the subject is controlled to the open state or the closed state by the control means. Since the photographing space can be automatically opened or closed at a necessary timing, it does not bother the user or the store clerk.

  In the photo vending machine according to the present invention, before the photographing by the photographing means, and in a monitoring state where the reception of the consideration is monitored, the control means keeps the photographing space open by the shielding means. It is characterized by doing so.

  In the photo vending machine according to the present invention, the photographing space is kept open by the control means when the photographing means is in the monitoring state before photographing by the photographing means and the reception of the consideration is monitored. To do. Therefore, since the inside of the shooting space can be seen from the outside, the state of the shooting space can be easily recognized from the outside, and the next user can easily enter the shooting space.

  The photo vending machine according to the present invention further includes a price receiving means for receiving a price, and after the price receiving means receives the price, the control means closes the photographing space by the shielding means. Features.

  In the photo vending machine according to the present invention, after the consideration receiving means for receiving the consideration receives the consideration, the photographing space is closed by the control means. Therefore, the privacy of the user can be ensured by preventing the inside of the shooting space from being seen from the outside. In other words, it is possible to prevent a person who does not pay the price from entering the shooting space and closing the shooting space, and to suppress the situation where the photo vending machine is occupied.

  The photo vending machine according to the present invention is characterized in that, during photographing by the photographing means, the control means allows the photographing space to be opened and closed by the shielding means.

  In the photo vending machine according to the present invention, the photographing space can be opened and closed by the control means during photographing by the photographing means. Therefore, the user of the photo vending machine can close the photographing space by his / her own intention so that the inside of the photographing space cannot be seen from the outside, and his / her privacy can be ensured. Also, in the event of an emergency situation, the user can open the shooting space at his / her own will, thus preventing the user from being trapped in the photo vending machine. And safe.

  The photo vending machine according to the present invention is characterized in that, after the photographing by the photographing means is completed, the control means opens the photographing space by the shielding means.

  In the photo vending machine according to the present invention, the photographing space is opened by the control means after the photographing by the photographing means is completed. Therefore, it is easy for the user who has finished shooting to leave the shooting space. Further, since the inside of the shooting space can be seen from the outside, the state of the shooting space can be easily recognized from the outside, and the next user can easily enter the shooting space.

  The photo vending machine according to the present invention is characterized in that the shielding means can be installed at a plurality of positions.

  In the photo vending machine according to the present invention, since the shielding means can be installed at a plurality of positions, depending on the situation of the installation location of the store, the surface to be removed or opened / closed when the shielding means is unnecessary In either case, no extra cost is incurred by using an uncontrolled manual shielding means. Moreover, the setting according to the situation of a store is enabled, and space can be used effectively.

  The photo vending machine according to the present invention further comprises storage means for storing the shielding means.

  In the photo vending machine according to the present invention, the shielding means is stored by the storage means. Thus, the shielding means is not bulky, the appearance is clean, and the impression can be improved.

  The photo vending machine according to the present invention is characterized in that the shielding means further includes guide means for guiding that the photographing space is used.

  In the photo vending machine according to the present invention, the use of the photographing space is guided by the guiding means. Therefore, since it is possible to guide to the surroundings whether the camera is shooting or in use more easily than a conventional usage status notification display board (for example, a “shooting” lamp), it is not necessary to use a shooting space. Can be easily recognized. Moreover, the cost by using a lamp can be reduced.

  The photo vending machine according to the present invention is characterized in that the shielding means further includes photographing effect means for obtaining a photographing effect on the photographing space side of the shielding means.

  In the photo vending machine according to the present invention, by providing a photographing effect means for obtaining a photographing effect on the photographing space side of the shielding means, an image of a subject in which the photographing effect is effectively reflected is formed as an image. Can be output to a medium.

  The photo vending machine according to the present invention further comprises setting means for setting the operation of the shielding means, and the control means controls the operation of the shielding means based on the contents set by the setting means. And

  In the photo vending machine according to the present invention, the operation of the shielding means is set by the setting means, and the control means controls the operation of the shielding means based on the setting. Therefore, by setting the operation of the shielding means, it is easy to match the store circumstances such as the place where the photo vending machine is installed, reflecting the intention of the administrator (installer).

  The photo vending machine according to the present invention is further characterized by further comprising an informing means for informing the state or operation of the shielding means.

In the photo vending machine according to the present invention, the state or operation of the shielding unit is notified by the notification unit. Therefore, the surrounding person can easily understand the state of the shielding means, and is safe when the shielding means operates.

  A photo vending method according to the present invention includes a photographing means for photographing a subject, a shielding means for shielding a photographing space for photographing the subject by the photographing means, and an image of the subject photographed by the photographing means to an image forming medium. A vending machine having a photo vending machine comprising: an output unit configured to open an imaging space by the shielding unit;

  In the photo vending method according to the present invention, the photographing space for photographing the subject is controlled to the open state or the closed state by the control means. Since the photographing space can be automatically opened or closed at a necessary timing, it does not bother the user or the store clerk.

  The computer program according to the present invention includes a photographing unit that photographs a subject, a shielding unit that shields a photographing space for photographing the subject by the photographing unit, and an output that outputs an image of the subject photographed by the photographing unit to an image forming medium. A computer program for controlling a photo vending machine, comprising: a step of sending the control signal to the shielding means to open or close the photographing space.

  The computer program according to the present invention includes a procedure for setting the imaging space to an open state or a closed state by transmitting a control signal to the shielding means, thereby causing the general-purpose computer to read (install) the computer program. These processes can be realized. Therefore, since the photographing space can be automatically opened or closed at a necessary timing, there is no need to bother the user or the store clerk.

  The image forming medium according to the present invention is generated by any one of the above-described photo vending machines.

  In the image forming medium according to the present invention, an image forming medium having a photographing effect can be generated by any one of the above-described photo vending machines.

  According to the present invention, the imaging space can be automatically opened or closed by controlling the imaging space for photographing the subject to the open state or the closed state by the control means. Don't bother the staff.

  According to the present invention, since the inside of the shooting space can be seen from the outside by opening the shooting space by the control means, the state of the shooting space can be easily recognized from the outside. Therefore, even if there is a person in the shooting space, it can be easily confirmed whether or not the person is the original customer. It is possible to prevent a situation in which the user turnover (customer) cannot play and the customer turnover rate decreases, and the administrator does not need to periodically check and check. Moreover, since the shielding means is in the open state, the next user can easily enter the imaging space. Furthermore, since the state (atmosphere) of the shooting space can be easily understood from the outside, the advertising effect can be improved.

  Furthermore, according to the present invention, the photographing space is closed by the control means so that the inside of the photographing space is not visible from the outside, the user's privacy is ensured, and the photographing space is used. Can be easily seen from the outside. Therefore, there is no possibility of trouble occurring with the user (advance customer) who is looking inside the shooting space for the purpose of checking whether or not shooting is being performed.

  Furthermore, according to the present invention, the photographing space can be opened and closed by the control means, so that the user of the photo vending machine can close the photographing space by his own intention so that the inside of the photographing space cannot be seen from the outside. In addition, the user's own privacy can be ensured, and the user can open the photographing space by his / her own intention. Therefore, when an emergency situation occurs, the user can easily open the shielding means, so that an excellent effect can be obtained, such as ensuring safety.

  Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings illustrating embodiments thereof.

  FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of a photographic vending machine according to the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a rear view thereof. The photo vending machine 100 according to the present invention is roughly divided into a photographing unit 100a that performs a photographing operation on a subject and an editing unit 100b that performs a manipulation operation on a photographed image. The editing operation is an operation for editing a photographed image. The user 6 inputs characters using a touch pen and inputs an image such as a background image, a stamp image, and a frame image. This is an operation for editing a desired image (called “doodle”, “drawing”, etc.).

  The imaging unit 100a includes an imaging-side casing 1 that houses various devices such as an imaging-side computer device 101a and an imaging-side control unit 102a, which will be described later, a back curtain 5, a frame material, and a panel. Winding devices 41a and 41b (hereinafter also referred to as the winding device 41 when there is no need for distinction) and winding devices 41a and 41b are provided on the right and left sides of the photographing-side casing 1. Side curtains 42a and 42b (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as side curtains 42 if distinction is not necessary) and motors 43a and 43b (hereinafter, distinction is unnecessary) for driving the winding devices 41a and 41b. In some cases, the motor 43 may be provided).

  The winding device 41 is a device for retracting the side curtain 42 by rotating the rotating shaft thereof by the motor 43 and storing the side curtain 42 by winding the side curtain 42. When the side curtain 42 is drawn out by the winding device 41, the tip of the side curtain 42 descends due to the weight of the side curtain 42 itself, and a private space surrounded by the photographing side housing 1, the panel, and the side curtain 42 is generated. The generated space is the shooting space 3 for shooting the subject. That is, the side curtain 42 functions as a shielding unit that shields the photographing space 3 by the winding device 41, and the winding device 41 functions as a storage unit that stores the side curtain 42 (shielding unit). Further, the motor 43 functions as a driving unit that operates the side curtain 42 that is a shielding unit.

  Colors such as white, black, and blue are given to the surface inside the shooting space 3 of the panel forming the shooting space 3, and a shooting effect can be obtained by this color. For example, if you want to obtain indirect light by reflecting the illumination light, you can set it to white, if you want to absorb the illumination light, black, if you want to perform chroma key composition, you can set it to blue. Depending on whether shooting is performed, it is selected as appropriate during design and development. In addition, the panel can be replaced with cloth or vinyl material, and in that case, the panel may be fixed to the frame material in a stretched state without slack.

  The background curtain 5 is used as the background of the subject at the time of photographing. Since the impression on the subject changes depending on the color or pattern, it is preferable to prepare a plurality of background curtains having different colors or patterns. In this way, the user 6 can appropriately select a desired background curtain and change the color tone of the background to perform desired photography. Further, it can be an element of play in shooting such as finding out the shooting effect for each background curtain by the user 6 himself.

  As the background curtain 5, there are a roll type that rolls up in the vertical direction, a slide type that slides in the horizontal direction, and the setting method thereof may be set manually by the user 6, or a touch panel display 22 or the like described later may be used. It may be set automatically by operation. Of course, the background curtain 5 may not be provided.

  On the other hand, the editing unit 100b includes an editing-side casing 2 that houses various devices to be described later, a curtain 44, a frame material, and a panel, and is surrounded by the photographing-side casing 2, the panel, and the curtain 44. The private space is an editing space 4 for the subject to perform an image editing operation. In this embodiment, an example in which the curtain 44 is always suspended is shown. However, like the side curtain 42 on the photographing side, the curtain 44 is closed at the start of the edit play, and the curtain 44 is opened after the edit play ends. Also good.

  In such a photo vending machine 100, a user 6 as a subject enters the shooting space 3 and stands at a position facing the shooting-side housing 1 to perform shooting play. When the shooting play is completed, the user 6 moves to the editing space 4 and performs an editing play of the shot image. An image obtained by a series of shooting and editing play is output to an image forming medium such as a sticker and provided to the user 6. Note that although the subject is the user 6 itself, the subject may be one person or a plurality of persons. Needless to say, the subject is not limited to a person and may be another object.

  FIG. 3 is a state diagram showing the state of the side curtain. FIG. 3A shows a state where the side curtain has been raised, and FIG. 3B shows a state where the side curtain has been lowered. Show. The photo vending machine 100 winds up the side curtain 42 after shooting is completed, that is, raises the side curtain 42 to open the shooting space 3. In addition, the open state is held before photographing and in the monitoring state in which the reception of the consideration is monitored (FIG. 3A). Of course, it is determined whether or not the shooting space 3 is used based on whether or not compensation has been received from the user 6, and when it is determined that the shooting space 3 is not used, the shooting space 3 is opened. You may make it. Needless to say, the timing of winding the side curtain 42 is not limited to this. Further, as in this example, when the shooting space 3 and the editing space 4 are different, the side curtain 42 is wound up when the shooting play ends, but the shooting space 3 and the editing space 4 are shared. When the shooting play is finished and the editing play is finished, the side curtain 42 may be wound up. Furthermore, it is preferable that the photographing space 3 is locked so that it cannot be operated in the open state until the next user's value is received after a series of play is completed.

  As described above, when the photographing is completed and the reception of the consideration is monitored, the photographing space 3 is in an open state, so that the user 6 can easily enter and leave the photographing space 3. Since the shooting space 3 is fully visible from the outside, a third party (a scheduled user who is waiting in order, a passerby, etc.) can easily identify that the shooting space 3 is not being used.

  In addition, since the administrator (installer) of the photo vending machine 100 can easily identify whether or not a person entering the shooting space 3 is entering for the purpose of shooting, the person entering the shooting space 3 enters for purposes other than the purpose of shooting. You can pay attention to the human being Further, by making the shooting space 3 visible from the outside, it is possible to attract customers by appealing the shooting space 3 to passersby and the like. Furthermore, since the side curtain 42 is accommodated in the winding device 41 and is not bulky, it does not take up space and has a good appearance.

  On the other hand, when the photo vending machine 100 receives the price and starts regular shooting play, the photo vending machine 100 extends the side curtain 42, that is, lowers the side curtain 42 to close the shooting space 3 (FIG. 3). (B)). Of course, as described above, it may be determined whether or not the shooting space 3 is used, and when it is determined that the shooting space 3 is used, the shooting space 3 may be opened. Needless to say, the timing of feeding out the side curtain 42 is not limited to this.

  In this way, when the shooting space 3 is used (during shooting play), the shooting space 3 is closed, so that the shooting space 3 can be made private and the illumination light is outside. It is possible to prevent leakage. Accordingly, since the third person cannot see the state in the photographing space 3 at all, the privacy of the user 6 can be ensured.

  Also, as shown in FIG. 3B, characters, drawings, designs, etc. that can be easily recognized as being in shooting play are printed on the outer surface of the side curtain 42 (for example, “in shooting”, “ XX (where XX contains the product name of the photo vending machine, etc.) ", etc.) and functions as guidance means for guiding that the photographing space 3 is being used. Therefore, the third party can easily identify that the shooting space 3 is being used by the user 6, and the third party can turn the side curtain 42 and look into the shooting space 3 or mistakenly take a picture. Troubles that enter the space 3 can be prevented. In addition, the product name, logo, etc. of the photo vending machine 100 are printed on the side curtain 42 to appeal the photo vending machine 100, or the operation method of the photo vending machine 100 is printed on the side curtain 42 and waits in turn. The operation method may be guided in advance to the intended user. Of course, a guidance display board may be installed, and when the user is taking a picture, the guidance display board may be lit to guide the surroundings to the surroundings.

  Also, on the inner curtain surface (side of the photographing space 3) of the side curtain 42, as in the case of the panel described above, white light is used to reflect the illumination light to obtain indirect light, and vice versa. If you want to synthesize black and chroma keys, colors such as blue may be applied, or the side curtains themselves may be made of materials such as reflectors, holograms, mirrors, etc. The photographing can be performed and functions as a photographing effect unit according to the present invention. The color of the inner surface of the side curtain 42 is appropriately selected at the time of design development depending on what kind of photographing is performed, as in the above-described panel.

  FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing an appearance of the photographing side housing. The front side of the photographing-side housing 1 incorporates a fluorescent lamp that is a normal light, a flash that is a flashlight, and the like, and illumination units 18a, 18b, and 18c (hereinafter referred to as “illuminating units”) for illuminating the user 6 that is a subject. If the distinction is unnecessary, the illumination unit 18 may be provided).

  The illuminating unit 18a has a concave shape with respect to the user 6 so that the light can be focused on the user 6 obliquely from the front. A camera 21a for photographing the person 6, live monitors 24a and 24b for displaying captured images (moving image data) in real time, and a pilot lamp 25a for notifying whether or not the camera 21a is capturing images. Has been.

  The illumination unit 18b irradiates the user 6 from the front, and a camera 21b that captures the user 6 from the front and a live monitor that displays the captured image in real time at the approximate center of the illumination unit 18b. 24c, 24d, a pilot lamp 25b for notifying whether or not the camera 21b is taking pictures, a demonstration screen (hereinafter referred to as a demo screen), choices such as selection of play contents (course), and the like are displayed. A touch panel display 22 that receives an operation from the user 6 by touching the display area with a finger or the like is provided. The touch panel display 22 may be a simple display that performs display. In this case, an operation button may be separately provided to accept an operation from the user 6.

  As described above, images captured by the cameras 21a and 21b (hereinafter, may be referred to as the camera 21 when distinction is unnecessary) are displayed in real time on the live monitors 24a, 24b, 24c, and 24d (hereinafter, distinction is unnecessary). In some cases, the live monitor 24 may be displayed), so that the user 6 can take a pose while confirming the image being taken. The camera 21 is, for example, a digital camera, and changes of items (for example, shutter speed, aperture value, exposure correction, white balance, etc.) that can be set by the digital camera and shooting timing are instructed from the shooting-side computer device 101a. The live monitors 24a, 24b, 24c and 24d are liquid crystal displays. The live monitors 24a and 24b are provided on the left and right of the camera 21a, and the live monitors 24c and 24d are provided on the left and right of the camera 21b. This is to prevent the adverse effect of the viewing angle characteristics of the liquid crystal display if the live monitor located in front is viewed regardless of whether it is on the left or right side.

  The illumination part 18c irradiates the user 6 from diagonally downward and forward, and is inclined so that the user 6 does not place luggage on the illumination part 18c.

  Also, on the lower side of the front side of the shooting side housing 1, shooting side speakers 23a and 23b for outputting guidance voices such as demonstration voices (hereinafter referred to as demo voices), BGM, and operating methods, and coins (coins) as a consideration are inserted. A coin insertion slot 26 for discharging the coins, a coin return slot 27 for discharging the inserted coins, and a front door 28 for performing maintenance of the inside of the photographing housing 1.

  Further, a LAN (Local Area Network) cable insertion port (not shown) used for communication with an external device such as image distribution or remote maintenance is provided on the upper surface of the photographing-side housing 1 and internal heat. A ventilation fan 31 is provided for releasing air. The ventilation fan 31 is provided for the purpose of releasing the heat inside the photographing-side casing 1, and the installation position is not limited to the upper surface of the photographing-side casing 1, and is a device that easily generates heat. Needless to say, it may be provided in the vicinity, or may be provided in plural. Of course, the position where the LAN cable insertion port is provided is not limited to the upper surface of the photographing-side casing 1 as long as the LAN cable wiring can be easily routed.

  FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the external appearance of the editing side housing. The editing-side housing 2 is disposed on the back surface of the photographing-side housing 1, and includes an editing housing 7 that accepts image editing, and various devices such as an editing-side computer device 101b and a printer 12 that will be described later. And a housing 8.

  The editing housing 7 is provided with an operation display 13 for displaying an image obtained by photographing and receiving image editing, and a touch pen 14 for performing editing input (so-called “drawing”). An illumination unit 18d for illuminating the editing space 4 and a user 6 (precisely editing) are provided on the surface of the photographing side housing 1 facing the editing space 4, that is, the back surface of the photographing side housing 1. An editing-side speaker 23c is provided for outputting music and explanations of operation methods and the like to the user who plays).

  More specifically, the touch pen 14 is a pen-shaped input device, and touches the operation display 13 to input images and characters such as backgrounds, stamps, frames, etc., selection of items (buttons) to be used, and It is possible to input an operation selection and the like. In addition, the touch pen 14 may be one and may be provided with two or more so that input operation can be simultaneously received from several users.

  On the other hand, a printer 12 (not shown) is provided inside the printing casing 8. The printer 12 is a printer for printing a photographed and edited image on an image forming medium such as paper, sticker, metal, or plastic. The printer 12 is a sublimation printer, a thermoautochrome method (a light fixing type direct thermal printing method). Etc.) is generally used. In the following description, it is assumed that the sticker is printed by the printer 12, but the image forming medium is not limited to the sticker, and may be another image forming medium described above. Of course, it may be a photographic print using a chemical reaction.

  Further, a print outlet 9 having a box shape is provided on the side surface of the printing casing 8, and a print notification LED (Light Emitting Diode) 10 and a print error notification LED 11 are provided in the vicinity of the print outlet 9. .

  The print exit 9 is a take-out port for a photo output from the printer 12, and the photo output from the printer 12 is discharged to the print exit 9. Note that the shape of the print outlet 9 is not limited as long as the discharged photograph has a configuration and shape that does not fall on the ground until the user 6 picks it up. For example, you may be comprised from the box-shaped space hollowed in the internal direction of the printing housing | casing 8, and the cover attached in the direction along the side surface of the printing housing | casing 8. FIG.

  The print notification LED 10 is lit or blinked to inform the user 6 that printing is in progress, and the print error notification LED 11 is lit or blinked to cause out of paper, out of ink, paper jam, mechanical This is to notify that an error such as an error has occurred.

  As described above, since the editing housing 7 and the printing housing 8 are separated, the editing housing 7 and the printing housing 8 can be individually and freely set according to the intention of the administrator (installer) and the space. Can be placed. For example, in some stores, the photo vending machine 100 may have to be arranged in a narrow space, and when the arrangement relationship between the editing casing 7 and the printing casing 8 is fixed, the print outlet 9 However, the printing housing 8 can be arranged at a desired position in accordance with the intention and space of the manager. Of course, the editing-side housing 2 is shown as being divided into the editing housing 7 and the printing housing 8, but is not limited to this, and both the editing function and the printing function are used in the same housing. Needless to say, it may be configured to play a role.

  Holes (not shown) for passing cables, wirings, and the like are formed in the side surfaces or the lower surface of the editing housing 7 and the printing housing 8. If this hole can be opened and closed in consideration of the case where the hole is not used or in a position where it can be seen by the user 6 during play, due to the installation location of each housing, There is no possibility that the impression will deteriorate. Further, the upper surface of the printing casing 8 has a flat shape and can be used for a luggage storage space for the user 6.

  FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a photo vending machine according to the present invention. The photo vending machine 100 is mainly composed of a photographing device and an editing device, and each functions as a photo vending machine in cooperation with each other. The photo vending machine 100 includes a photographing computer device 101a that is a computer device for operating a photographing device, and an editing computer device 101b that is a computer device for operating an editing device. The photographing-side computer device 101a and the editing-side computer device 101b are directly connected so that data can be transferred between each other. Of course, it may be a form in which they are interconnected by a LAN cable or the like via a network hub.

  The photographing-side computer device 101a and the editing-side computer device 101b include a CPU (Central Processing Unit) that is a calculation unit that controls various devices, a computer program for operating each device, audio data used in the computer program, and A communication unit that stores image data and the like, a memory that is a temporary work area of a computer program, a driver that controls peripheral devices, and a communication that communicates with an external device via a LAN cable Department. Image data stored in the storage unit includes image data obtained by photographing a subject, editing image data input to the image data, and the like. Each computer device is a general-purpose computer such as a personal computer or a board computer, and the form thereof is not limited. Details of the computer program will be described later.

  The shooting side computer device 101a stores a computer program for controlling the operation on the shooting side, and the editing side computer device 101b stores a computer program for controlling the operation on the editing side. Are executed to control a photographing apparatus and an editing apparatus, which will be described later. Therefore, the operation on the photographing side and the operation on the editing side can be performed in parallel.

  The photo vending machine 100 also includes a power switch 29 that turns off power supply from an external power source (commercial AC power supply or the like), and a power supply control unit 103 that supplies power to various devices of the photo vending machine 100. The power supply control unit 103 stabilizes the power supply voltage input from the outside, supplies it to various devices, and performs control to convert it to voltages necessary for various devices. When the power switch 29 is pressed and power is supplied to the photo vending machine 100, power is supplied to the photographing side computer device 101a and the editing side computer device 101b, and the respective computer programs are automatically activated to automatically take the photo. The vending machine 100 becomes operable.

  The power supply control unit 103 is connected to the illumination unit 18, the ventilation fan 31 that cools various devices for heat countermeasures, and an uninterruptible power supply (hereinafter referred to as UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply)) 104.

  The UPS 104 has a function of stably supplying power to various devices using a built-in battery or the like even when power supply from an external power supply is suddenly cut off due to a power failure or the like. That is, when the external power supply is cut off, the UPS 104 backs up the power supply for a while and transmits a power failure signal to the photographing computer apparatus 101a and the editing computer apparatus 101b. Meanwhile, the photographing computer device 101a and the editing computer device 101b perform a computer program termination procedure and normally terminate the computer program.

  Accordingly, even when the external power supply is cut off, the computer program will not be terminated abnormally, so that it is possible to prevent a malfunction such as a failure. It should be noted that power is also supplied from the power control unit 103 or the UPS 104 to various other devices such as a photographing side control unit 102a, an editing side control unit 102b, cameras 21a and 21b, and a printer 12 which require power. (Not shown).

  First, the configuration and function of each device on the photographing side controlled by the photographing computer device 101a will be described. A touch panel display 22, cameras 21a and 21b, and a photographing side control unit 102a are connected to the photographing side computer device 101a on the photographing side.

  The touch panel display 22 has a touch panel stacked on the display, displays a demonstration screen, a play content (course) to be executed, play course options (operation buttons, selection button images), and the like, and displayed operation buttons, When the user 6 touches the image area of the selection button with a finger or the like, an input (instruction) from the user 6 is accepted. Instead of the touch panel display 22, a display having only a display function may be used. In this case, an operation unit including a switching button, a determination button, a cancel button, and the like is provided to input from the user 6. Accept it. Of course, it may be a tablet display capable of accepting input with a touch pen.

  The cameras 21a and 21b are connected to the video signal distributor 33, and the moving image data of the subject photographed by the cameras 21a and 21b is output to the video signal distributor 33 as a video signal. The video signal distributor 33 is connected to the live monitors 24a, 24b, 24c, and 24d, and outputs the video signals sent from the cameras 21a and 21b to each live monitor. Therefore, the video of the subject is displayed in real time on the live monitors 24a, 24b, 24c, and 24d.

  The cameras 21 a and 21 b are connected to the flash control unit 106 via a signal line such as a USB cable. When receiving a control signal related to the shutter operation, the received control signal is transferred to the flash control unit 106. The flash control unit 106 is connected to the flash 20 and causes the flash 20 to emit light in synchronization with the transferred control signal. As the timing of synchronization, there is a method called an X contact known per se. The cameras 21a and 21b capture the subject and generate still image data of the subject. The generated still image data is appropriately taken out from the cameras 21a and 21b and stored in the storage unit of the photographing side computer device 101a.

  The photographing side control unit 102a is connected with a photographing side service panel 80, photographing side speakers 23a and 23b, a coin control unit 107, a motor 43, and the like.

  The shooting-side service panel 80 includes a coin counter 80a that counts the number of inserted coins, a print counter 80b that counts the number of printed prints, and a volume control that adjusts the volume of sound output from the shooting-side speakers 23a and 23b. A panel having a knob 80c, a test button 80d for performing a photographing side test mode, a service button 80e for enabling the use of the photo vending machine 100 without receiving a price, and the like. It is used when 100 administrators perform various settings and maintenance operations. The photographing side service panel 80 is a manager's tool, and is installed inside the photographing side housing 1 so as not to be operated by the user 6.

  The photographing side service panel 80 is activated by sending a notification signal indicating that the test button 80d and the service button 80e have been pressed to the photographing side control unit 102a. Further, the photographing side service panel 80 operates the coin counter 80a and the print counter 80b based on the control signal from the photographing side control unit 102a (for example, increments the print counter 80b by 1). Further, the volume of the audio signal output from the imaging-side computer device 101a to the imaging-side control unit 102a is adjusted by the volume adjustment knob 80c of the imaging-side service panel 80, and is output to the imaging-side speakers 23a and 23b.

  The coin control unit 107 detects the validity of the coin inserted into the coin insertion slot 26 and functions as a value receiving means for receiving the coin. When the coin is received, a notification indicating that the coin has been inserted The signal is sent to the photographing side control unit 102a. Further, the coin control unit 107 blocks the coin insertion slot 26 to prevent the insertion of coins based on a control signal from the photographing side control unit 102a, or discharges the inserted coins to the coin return slot 27. Thus, it has a function of not accepting coin insertion. Further, when the photo vending machine 100 has a function of accepting a value to replace the coin insertion slot 26 (for example, a reading device that accepts the price electronically), the coin control unit 107 accepts the value by the above-described function of accepting the price. The validity of the compensation is detected, and a notification signal indicating that the compensation has been accepted is sent to the photographing side control unit 102a.

  The motor 43 controls the rotation direction and rotation speed of the rotating shaft of the winding device 41 via a belt, and the photographing side control unit 102a is controlled by the photographing side computer device 101a to supply electric power ( Current) is controlled to control the polarity and the current value of the current, thereby feeding out the side curtain 42 from the winding device 41 to close the photographing space 3 or removing the side curtain 42 from the winding device 41. Take up and open the photographic space 3.

  Next, the configuration and function of each device on the editing side controlled by the editing side computer device 101b will be described. The editing-side computer device 101b on the editing side is connected to the operation display 13 that receives input from the touch pen 14, the printer 12, and the editing-side control unit 102b.

  The operation display 13 has a function of outputting and displaying images taken by the cameras 21a and 21b, editing images, and the like with contents instructed by the computer program of the editing-side computer device 101b and receiving input from the touch pen 14. Have. That is, it has a function of detecting a position touched with the touch pen 14 and sending an instruction signal corresponding to the detected position to the editing-side computer apparatus 101b.

  The printer 12 prints the captured image on an image forming medium such as a sticker, and notifies the editing-side computer apparatus 101b of the state of the printer 12. The editing computer device 101b sends a signal to the editing control unit 102b according to the state.

  The editing side control unit 102b is connected to the editing side service panel 90, the editing side speaker 23c, the print notification LED 10, the print error notification LED 11, and the like.

  The editing service panel 90 includes a volume control knob 90a that adjusts the volume of the sound output from the editing speaker 23c, a test button 90b for performing the editing test mode, and the like. Used when a person performs various settings and maintenance operations. The editing service panel 90 is an administrator tool and is installed inside the editing housing 2 so as not to be operated by the user 6.

  The editing-side service panel 90 starts the test mode by sending a notification signal indicating that the test button 90b has been pressed to the editing-side control unit 102b. The volume of the audio signal output from the editing-side computer device 101b to the editing-side control unit 102b is adjusted by the volume adjustment knob 90a of the editing-side service panel 90 and output to the editing-side speaker 23c. Further, the editing control unit 102b turns on or blinks the print notification LED 10 and the print error notification LED 11 based on a signal input from the editing computer apparatus 101b.

  Next, a processing procedure of the photo vending machine 100 according to the present invention will be described. The photo vending machine 100 according to the present invention is roughly divided into a process related to a shooting operation and a process related to an editing operation. In these processes, the CPU of each computer device reads each computer program (program on the shooting operation side, program on the editing operation side) stored in the storage device into the memory and executes it in parallel, thereby taking a picture. Side and editing side can play simultaneously. That is, the user who has finished shooting play moves to the editing space 4 to perform editing play, and the next user can enter the shooting space 3 to perform shooting play, that is, shooting play and editing play. Can be done in parallel, improving customer turnover.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an outline of the operation flow on the photographing operation side in the photo vending machine according to the present invention.

  First, when the power switch 29 is turned on, power is supplied to various devices, and the photographing-side computer apparatus 101a displays a demonstration screen on the touch panel display 22 to encourage the use of the photo vending machine 100 (S1). Note that the demo sound may be output from the photographing speakers 23a and 23b so as to appeal to the auditory sense as well as the visual sense.

  Then, in the state where the demonstration screen is displayed, the photographing-side computer apparatus 101a monitors the pressing of the test button 80d of the photographing-side service panel 80 (S2). When the test button 80d is pressed by the administrator (installer) of the photo vending machine 100 (S2: YES), the setting of various devices related to the photo vending machine 100 is accepted, and the various devices are configured with the accepted settings. A test mode for checking whether or not to operate is activated (S3).

  The test mode is a mode for an administrator for registering various settings of the photo vending machine 100 and performing an operation check. In this mode, the usage status of the photo vending machine 100 (for example, the number of coins inserted) is confirmed. Various devices such as the cameras 21a and 21b, the printer 12, and the side curtain 42 can be adjusted. When various settings and operation checks are made by an administrator (installer) or the like, the test mode is terminated, the process proceeds to S1, and the demonstration screen is displayed again. Details of the test mode will be described later.

  In the state where the demonstration screen is displayed, the photographing computer apparatus 101a cooperates with the coin control unit 107 to monitor the receipt of the value (such as the insertion of a predetermined number of coins) (S4), and the test button When 80d is not pressed (S2: NO) and the user 6 receives a price (S4: YES), the motor 43 is controlled to feed the side curtain 42 out of the winder 41 and the photographing space 3 is closed. (S5). The photographing-side computer device 101a may function as a determination unit that determines whether the photographing space 3 is used in cooperation with the coin control unit 107. Note that the payment for determining whether or not the shooting space 3 is used is after the payment corresponding to one play is completed, but is not limited to this. May be determined when one coin is inserted.

  More specifically, when the consideration is received by the user 6, the photographing side computer device 101a generates a control signal indicating that the side curtain 42 is extended and outputs the control signal to the photographing side control unit 102a, and the photographing side control unit 102a. Supplies electric power (current) to the motor 43 to feed out the side curtain 42 from the winding device 41 and close the photographing space 3.

  Further, the coin control unit 107 outputs a detection signal to the photographing side control unit 102a, and when the photographing side control unit 102a receives the detection signal from the coin control unit 107, it relates to various guidance (guidance) stored in the storage unit. Image data and sound data are read out and output to a graphic I / F circuit (not shown) and a sound I / F circuit (not shown).

  The graphic I / F circuit processes the image data output from the photographing side control unit 102 a, converts it into a video signal, outputs the video signal to the touch panel display 22, and displays various guidance videos on the touch panel display 22. The sound I / F circuit performs signal processing on the audio data output from the imaging side control unit 102a, converts it into an audio signal, outputs the audio signal to the imaging side speakers 23a and 23b, and outputs various guidance sounds from the imaging side speakers 23a and 23b. Is output. In this way, the user 6 is informed of the shooting method and the like.

  And the imaging | photography side computer apparatus 101a displays a questionnaire screen on the touchscreen display 22, and receives the questionnaire information regarding the user 6 and imaging | photography (S6). In accordance with the questionnaire screen displayed on the touch panel display 22, the user 6 touches a corresponding selection area on the screen with a finger or the like to select desired information and confirms the information. The questionnaire information is information such as the number of photographers, preferred image quality, hair color, clothes, skin color, situation to be photographed, desired background, and sex ratio.

  The imaging-side computer device 101a outputs a control signal to the illumination unit 18 and the camera 21 based on the questionnaire information received by the touch panel display 22 via the imaging-side control unit 102a, and sets the illumination unit 18 and the camera 21. change. Accordingly, since the illumination unit 18 and the camera 21 are appropriately set according to the questionnaire information desired by the user 6, it is possible to realize photographing desired by the user.

  Note that the acceptance of the questionnaire information in S6 is set in advance to be performed within a specified time, and the remaining time that can be accepted is displayed on the questionnaire screen, and when the remaining time runs out, it is selected at that time The option is determined and the process automatically proceeds to the next process. Of course, the acceptance of the questionnaire information may be selection for all shootings in one play, or selection for each shooting and may be performed for each shooting. By accepting the questionnaire information for each shooting, it is possible to obtain photographs with different impressions (types) in one play and improve the satisfaction of the user 6. In the following description, the remaining time display is the same unless otherwise specified.

  When the acceptance of the questionnaire information is completed, the process proceeds to processing (S7) of photographing the subject (user 6) with the camera 21. The shooting-side computer device 101a displays the captured image acquired by the camera 21 on the live monitor 24 in real time, and the user 6 can view his / her favorite expression and pose while viewing the image displayed on the live monitor 24. Can take. Here, the image acquired by the camera 21 may be displayed on the live monitor 24 as it is, or may be displayed after being horizontally reversed. When the image is displayed after being reversed in the left-right direction, the same image as that in a state in which the user 6 is reflected in the mirror is displayed on the live monitor 24. Easy to take.

  The shooting-side computer device 101a transmits a shooting signal to the camera 21, and the camera 21 releases the shutter in synchronization with the shooting signal, whereby a still image is captured from the camera 21 to the storage unit of the shooting-side computer device 101a. Needless to say, a photographing signal is also output to the flash 20 provided in each lighting device and flashed in synchronization with the shutter.

  The shooting-side computer apparatus 101a automatically transmits a shooting signal to the camera 21 based on the computer program, and countdown such as “3, 2, 1” is displayed on the touch panel display 22 or the shooting speaker 23a as time passes. , 23b may be notified to the user 6. Alternatively, when the user 6 touches the shooting button of the touch panel display 22 at an arbitrary timing while watching the shooting screen, the shooting-side computer device 101a may transmit a shooting signal to the camera 21 in synchronization with the touch. . Note that the screen of the touch panel display 22 is changed to white in synchronization with the timing of the shutter operation. Since the touch panel display 22 is disposed in front of the user 6 below the camera 21, a high-key image can be obtained by changing the front portion to white.

  Then, the imaging-side computer device 101a determines whether or not the specified number of imaging operations has been completed (S8). If it is determined in S8 that the prescribed number of shootings has not been completed (S8: NO), the process proceeds to step S7 and the shooting process is repeated.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the predetermined number of times of shooting has been completed (S8: YES), the photo selection screen is displayed on the touch panel display 22, and the user 6 touches the selection area on the displayed photo selection screen. As a result, a prescribed number (for example, four) of photographs to be used in editing processing to be described later is selected from the photographed images to obtain a kept image (S9). More specifically, a thumbnail of the photographed image is displayed on the touch panel display 22, and the user 6 touches the desired image from the displayed images to select a keep image.

  Then, guidance such as “Please move to the editing side” is displayed on the touch panel display 22 to prompt the user 6 to move to the editing operation side (editing space 4). At this time, if it is impossible to immediately perform editing play in the editing space 4 such as another user is editing in the editing space 4, the mini game is displayed on the touch panel display before the shooting process is finished. 22 is preferable. For example, when the user 6 wins in a mini game, if the number of times of shooting is added, the playability is further enhanced and the customer satisfaction is improved. Of course, the present invention is not limited to the mini game, and it is preferable not to bore the user's waiting time such as guidance display and operation help display such as “drawing”.

  When the selection of the keep image is completed in S9, that is, when the shooting play in the shooting space 3 is ended, the shooting-side computer device 101a generates a control signal indicating that the side curtain 42 is wound up and generates a shooting-side control unit. The photographing side control unit 102a supplies the motor 43 with electric power (current having a polarity different from that of S5), thereby winding the side curtain 42 from the winding device 41 and opening the photographing space 3. (S10).

  When the shooting process in the shooting space 3 is finished, the storage of the side curtain 42 is finished, and the process shifts from the shooting operation side to the editing operation side, a guide such as “Please move to the editing side (editing space 4)” A display is displayed and it transfers to S1. That is, the demo screen is displayed on the touch panel display 22 again, and the next user waits for photographing. In addition, the photographing-side computer device 101a transmits the keep image obtained in S9 to the editing-side computer device 101b.

  Here, the test mode according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display screen relating to the operation setting of the side curtain in the test mode. When the upper button 22a related to “the operation speed of the side curtain” displayed on the touch panel display 22 is touched, the set speed during the operation of the side curtain is incremented by 1 cm / second in accordance with the number of touches, and the lower button 22b When is touched, the set speed is decremented in increments of 1 cm / sec depending on the number of touches.

  When the upper button 22c related to “the initial position of the side curtain (from the top)” is touched, the set value of the initial position of the side curtain 42 is incremented by 1 cm in accordance with the number of touches, and when the lower button 22d is touched The set value is decremented by 1 cm in accordance with the number of touches. The initial position of the side curtain 42 is a distance between the lower end of the side curtain 42 and the winding device 41 when the winding device 41 completes the winding operation of the side curtain 42 (see FIG. 3A). : Arrow Z1).

  Further, when the upper button 22e related to “the end position of the side curtain (from the top)” is touched, the set value of the end position of the side curtain 42 is incremented by 1 cm according to the number of touches, and when the lower button 22f is touched The set value is decremented by 1 cm in accordance with the number of touches. The end position of the side curtain 42 is the distance between the lower end of the side curtain 42 and the winding device 41 when the winding device 41 completes the feeding operation of the side curtain 42 (see FIG. 3B). Arrow Z2).

  Furthermore, when the valid button 22g related to the right side curtain 42a is touched, the right side curtain 42a is set to operate, and when the invalid button 22h related to the right side curtain 42a is touched, the right side curtain 42a is not operated. Set to The valid button 22i and the invalid button 22j related to the left side curtain 42b have the same function. When the buttons of both side curtains 42a and 42b are valid, the setting of the operation speed, the initial position, and the end position is valid. In addition, the operation speed, the initial position, the end position, and the like may be set separately for each of the side curtains 42a and 42b. If the “return to menu” button 22k is touched, it is possible to return to the test mode menu screen.

  The set contents are stored in the storage unit of the photographing side computer device 101a, read when the side curtain 42 is operated after setting, and the side curtain 42 is set by instructing the photographing side control unit 102a. Drive based on content. That is, it functions as a setting means for setting the speed when the side curtain 42 changes to the open state, the closed state, or each state.

  In this way, the initial position (open state), the end position (closed state) of the side curtain 42, the setting of the speed of feeding and winding operations, and whether the side curtains on each side are enabled or disabled, respectively. Therefore, the setting corresponding to the location where the photo vending machine 100 is installed and the request of the manager (installer) can be made. The photo vending machine 100 may be used so as to enter and exit from only one side of the photographing space 3 depending on the store circumstances, so that the validity / invalidity of the side curtain 42 can be set according to the administrator's intention and installation location. It is preferable to make it. Note that the setting items are not limited to the items described above, and settings such as audio output from the photographing speakers 23a and 23b when the side curtain 42 is opened and closed may be performed.

  FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display screen related to the side curtain operation check in the test mode. When the “close right side curtain” button 22m displayed on the touch panel display 22 is touched, the photographing side computer device 101a transmits a control signal corresponding to the touch to the photographing side control unit 102a, and the photographing side control unit 102a. The motor 43a is driven based on the transmitted control signal, and the right side curtain 42a is extended to the end position described above by the winding device 41a to close the photographing space 3.

  When the “open right side curtain” button 22n is touched, the photographing-side computer apparatus 101a transmits a control signal corresponding to the touch to the photographing-side control unit 102a, and the photographing-side control unit 102a transmits the transmitted control. The motor 43a is driven based on the signal, the right side curtain 42a is wound up to the initial position described above by the winding device 41a, and the photographing space 3 is opened.

  Similarly, when the “close left side curtain” button 22p and the “open left side curtain” button 22q are touched, the left side curtain 42b performs an operation corresponding to the touch, and the photographing space 3 is closed or opened. To do. If the “return to menu” button 22r is touched, it is possible to return to the test mode menu screen.

  As described above, by executing the test mode, it is possible to check the operation of the side curtain 42 and confirm whether there is no abnormality in the operation of the side curtain 42 and the end position and the initial position. Therefore, if the administrator of the photo vending machine 100 performs an operation check using the test mode when the power switch 29 is turned on, for example, it is possible to find out a problem at an early stage. Normally, when the photo vending machine 100 is installed, the side curtain 42 is set by the administrator, and the setting value is rarely changed. Therefore, although not shown in the flowchart of FIG. 7, when the power switch 29 is turned on, if the operation check is automatically performed so that the current setting of the side curtain 42 can be confirmed, the side is turned on when the power is turned on. The operation of the curtain 42 and whether or not there is any abnormality in the terminal position and the initial position can be surely confirmed.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an outline of the operation flow on the editing operation side in the photo vending machine according to the present invention.

  First, when the power switch 29 is turned on, the power of various devices is supplied, and when there is no image (keep image) to be edited in the editing computer device 101b, a standby screen for performing shooting first is displayed. It is displayed on the operation display 13 (S21).

  When the keep image selected in S9 is transmitted from the photographing-side computer apparatus 101a, the editing-side computer apparatus 101b displays a brightness adjustment screen on the operation display 13 and uses the selection of the brightness adjustment of the keep image. From the person 6 (S22). Here, the brightness adjustment is to adjust not only the brightness of the image but also the color tone (saturation, density, hue, etc.) of the image such as skin color correction specific to the photo vending machine. Adjusts an image captured using the touch pen 14 to an image of a desired color tone.

  On the brightness adjustment screen, a keep image and a plurality of adjustment buttons for performing the brightness adjustment operation of the keep image are displayed, and the user 6 operates each adjustment button to keep the image. The color tone of the image is adjusted and reflected in the keep image displayed on the brightness adjustment screen. Since image processing for brightness adjustment may take time, prior to displaying the brightness adjustment screen, an image that has been subjected to image processing corresponding to each adjustment button is created in advance and stored in the memory. It is preferable to memorize, and it is possible to shorten the time from when the user 6 presses the button until the image is switched, and to improve the operability. Further, the brightness adjustment may be executed when selecting a questionnaire in S6 by an operation on the photographing operation side.

  Next, the editing-side computer device 101b displays an editing screen on the operation display 13, and receives an editing input ("drawing" input) for inputting an editing image for the keep image from the user 6 (S23). The edit screen displays a keep image that has been subjected to brightness adjustment in S21 and function buttons (tools) that are used to input an image for editing. Various buttons such as pen, stamp, background, color, line type, and pattern are prepared for the function buttons. The user 6 selects a desired tool from the function buttons with the touch pen 14 and selects the tool. An arbitrary image and an editing image such as a character are input using the tool. The input of the editing image can be accepted until a predetermined time limit is reached.

  The editing-side computer apparatus 101b develops the keep image whose brightness has been adjusted in S22 and the editing image received in S23 in different layers on the memory, and an image (composite image) obtained by superimposing the layers. Is displayed on the operation display 13 (S24). It should be noted that which of the layers is used as the upper layer depends on the application. For example, when the editing image is the foreground image of the keep image, the editing image is the upper layer, and the editing image is the keep image. When the background image is used, the editing image is a lower layer. Furthermore, the editing image may be composed of a plurality of layers divided by function, such as a stamp image layer and a frame image layer. If you want to change any of the layers, Since only the layer to be changed needs to be changed, control of the editing process such as “return one”, “recommend one”, and “from the beginning” can be easily realized.

  Then, the editing-side computer apparatus 101b displays a seal layout selection screen indicating a combination of the size and arrangement of the image to be printed on the operation display 13, and accepts selection of a desired seal layout from the user 6 (S25). A plurality of layout examples in which images are laid out are displayed on the selection screen, and the user 6 selects a desired seal layout with the touch pen 14. The editing computer apparatus 101b combines the keep image and the editing image based on the received sticker layout, and transmits a print signal related to the combined image to the printer 12.

  Then, the printer 12 prints an image on the surface of a predetermined image forming medium, and discharges the printed image forming medium from the print outlet 9 (S26). When the print outlet 9 is on the side surface of the print housing 8 as in this example, that is, outside the editing space 4, “printing is in progress” in synchronization with the print start timing. It is preferable to display on the operation display 13 a guide such as “print goes out from the side. Then, the process proceeds to S21, where a standby screen is displayed on the operation display 13 and waits until the next user uses it.

  In the present embodiment, the processing on the photographing side and the processing on the editing side are divided and each processing can be performed independently and in parallel. However, the present invention is not limited to this. It may be a form in which processing and editing processing are sequentially performed in one space.

  In the present embodiment, the photo vending machine 100 includes two computer devices (101a and 101b), and the CPUs of the photographing computer device 101a and the editing computer device 101b execute the respective computer programs. Although the processing is performed in parallel, the number of computer devices included in the photo vending machine 100 is not limited to two, and the processing on the photographing side and the editing side is controlled by one computer device. Alternatively, the processing may be distributed and controlled by two or more computer devices.

  By the way, the computer program according to the present invention is stored in the storage unit built in the photographing-side computer apparatus 101a as described above. This computer program is a computer program for controlling the side curtain 42 and includes a “procedure for making the imaging space 3 open or closed by transmitting a control signal to the side curtain 42”. Of course, by adding a “determination procedure for determining whether or not the shooting space 3 is used based on the notification signal output from the coin control unit 107”, the shooting-side computer apparatus 101 a functions as a determination unit. May be.

  In addition, although the case where a computer program was recorded on recording parts, such as a hard disk built in a computer, was demonstrated, the flexible disk attached to a computer, CD-ROM (Compact Disc-Read Only Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), It can be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) and a memory card and provided as a computer program product. The provided computer program product is installed in a storage unit such as a hard disk. Executed. Of course, the computer program can also be provided through a network such as a telecommunication line or a satellite communication line. The computer program product includes the computer program itself and a recording medium on which the computer program is recorded.

  As another embodiment, the side curtain 42 is locked so that it is not closed except during playing, and the side curtain 42 is unlocked when the value is detected. The curtain 42 may be manually moved by one's own intention so that the photographing space 3 can be in either an open state or a closed state. In this way, if the user 6 can manually move the side curtain 42, the user 6 can easily open the side curtain 42 in the event of an emergency, so from a safety standpoint. It is preferable. In addition, when it can be moved manually, it may notify the user of “Please close the side curtain” by voice, or may display a guidance for closing the side curtain 42 on the touch panel display 22 or the like. Even if the user 6 can manually move the side curtain 42, it is preferable that the side curtain 42 is automatically wound up at the end of play and the photographing space 3 is opened. Further, in setting the side curtain 42 in the test mode, whether the side curtain 42 is automatically moved or manually moved may be set according to the intention of the administrator.

  In addition, when the side curtain 42 is operating, there is provided an informing means for informing when the side curtain 42 changes from the open state to the closed state, or when the side curtain 42 changes from the closed state to the open state. This is preferable from the viewpoint of safety because the user 6 and a third person can be alerted. For example, a guidance such as “the curtain closes” may be played by voice or the like, and the user 6 or the like may be informed so as to call attention. Of course, an LED lamp or the like may be provided to notify the user 6 so that the user 6 is turned on or blinking. In addition, when the user forcibly tries to close the side curtain 42, guidance such as “I can't close now” may flow.

  Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 11, in the area where the user 6 may come into contact with the side curtain 42, the foot of the area is displayed as the entry prohibition area 45, When 6 enters the entry prohibition area 45, the entry may be detected by an infrared sensor or the like and notified by voice or the like, and the operation of the side curtain 42 may be temporarily stopped.

  Furthermore, since the photo vending machine may be installed in close contact with a wall or the like depending on the store circumstances, it is preferable that the side curtain 42 be detachable from the photographing side housing 1. In this way, when one side surface of the shooting space 3 is installed in close contact with the wall, the side curtain 42 on the wall side is not necessary, so that the side curtain 42 can be removed by removing the side curtain 42. The space can be used effectively. Further, only one of the side curtains 42 may be a manual type conventional side curtain.

  Further, the side curtain 42 is opened at the end of the shooting play. However, when shooting and editing are performed in the same space as described above, the side curtain 42 is opened at the end of the editing play, not at the end of the shooting play. For example, the timing for opening the side curtain 42 may be appropriately determined during design development. Of course, the timing for opening the side curtain 42 may be set by the administrator by setting the side curtain 42 in the test mode.

  Further, the side curtain 42 is a roll-up / feed-out type roll screen, and the mode in which the shooting space 3 is closed or opened by the winding device has been described. However, the side curtain 42 is used for shooting space during shooting play. As long as 3 is closed and the shooting space 3 is open otherwise, the screen is not limited to a roll screen. As shown in FIG. 12, the shooting space slides in the left-right (horizontal) direction. 3 may be a closed state or an open state. Further, a method in which the side curtain 42 is folded (accordion method) or a method in which the side curtain 42 is stored on the upper surface (ceiling) of the photographing side housing 1 may be used. The material of the side curtain 42 is not particularly limited as long as it can shield the photographing space 3 to protect and shield the internal privacy and can confirm the internal situation, such as cloth or vinyl. Of course, in the case of a method of sliding in the left-right (horizontal) direction, a door such as a sliding door may be used.

  Furthermore, the photo vending machine is divided into the shooting space 3 and the editing space 4, and the case of the photo vending machine is divided into each case. However, the present invention is not limited to this. However, the shooting space 3 and the editing space 4 are the same, that is, the shooting play and the edit play may be performed sequentially in the common space, or the shooting side housing 1 and the editing side housing 2 are the same. That is, various devices may be stored in one housing. In that case, this function may be provided in a curtain that creates a space for shooting and editing.

1 is a perspective view showing an example of a photo vending machine according to the present invention. It is a rear view which shows an example of the photograph vending machine based on this invention. It is a state figure which shows the state of a side curtain. It is a perspective view which shows the external appearance of the imaging | photography side housing | casing. It is a perspective view which shows the external appearance of an edit side housing | casing. It is a block diagram which shows an example of a structure of the photograph vending machine concerning this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the outline | summary of the operation | movement flow by the side of imaging | photography operation in the photographic vending machine concerning this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the display screen which concerns on the operation | movement setting of the side curtain in test mode. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the display screen which concerns on the operation check of the side curtain in test mode. It is a flowchart which shows the outline | summary of the operation | movement flow by the side of editing operation in the photograph vending machine concerning this invention. It is a perspective view which shows another example of the photograph vending machine which concerns on this invention. It is a side view which shows another example of the photograph vending machine which concerns on this invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Photo vending machine 100a Shooting part 100b Editing part 101a Shooting side computer apparatus 101b Editing side computer apparatus 102a Shooting side control part 102b Editing side control part 1 Shooting side casing 2 Editing side casing 3 Shooting space 4 Editing space 6 User 7 Editing case 8 Printing case 12 Printer 18a, 18b, 18c, 18d Illumination unit 20 Flash 21a, 21b Camera 41a, 41b Winding device 42a, 42b Side curtain 43a, 43b Motor 80 Shooting side service panel 80d Test button 80e Service button

Claims (14)

Photo vending machine comprising: photographing means for photographing a subject; shielding means for shielding a photographing space for photographing a subject by the photographing means; and output means for outputting an image of the subject photographed by the photographing means to an image forming medium Because
A photo vending machine comprising control means for controlling the photographing space to an open state or a closed state by the shielding means.   2. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit is configured to keep the imaging space in an open state by the shielding unit when the imaging unit is in a monitoring state in which reception of the consideration is monitored before imaging. The photo vending machine according to 1.   3. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a price receiving unit configured to receive a price, wherein the control unit closes the imaging space by the shielding unit after the price receiving unit receives the price. Photo vending machine as described in.   The photo vending machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the control means enables the photographing space to be opened and closed by the shielding means during photographing by the photographing means.   5. The photo vending machine according to claim 1, wherein after the photographing by the photographing unit is finished, the control unit opens the photographing space by the shielding unit.   6. The photo vending machine according to claim 1, wherein the shielding means can be installed at a plurality of positions.   The photo vending machine according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising storage means for storing the shielding means.   The photo vending machine according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the shielding means further includes guide means for guiding that the photographing space is being used.   The photo vending machine according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the shielding means further includes photographing effect means for obtaining a photographing effect on the photographing space side of the shielding means. Further comprising setting means for setting the operation of the shielding means,
The photo vending machine according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the control means controls the operation of the shielding means based on the content set by the setting means.   The photo vending machine according to any one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising notifying means for notifying the state or operation of the shielding means. Photo vending machine comprising: photographing means for photographing a subject; shielding means for shielding a photographing space for photographing a subject by the photographing means; and output means for outputting an image of the subject photographed by the photographing means to an image forming medium The photo vending method of
A photo vending method characterized in that the photographing space is opened or closed by the shielding means. Photo vending machine comprising: photographing means for photographing a subject; shielding means for shielding a photographing space for photographing a subject by the photographing means; and output means for outputting an image of the subject photographed by the photographing means to an image forming medium A computer program for controlling
A computer program comprising a procedure for setting the imaging space to an open state or a closed state by transmitting a control signal to the shielding means.   An image forming medium produced by the photo vending machine according to claim 1.

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