JP2005250797A - Image buying/selling system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an buying/selling system for promoting its use by fulfilling a retrieving function at the time of purchasing an image, and for smoothly executing the circulation of image raw materials. <P>SOLUTION: This image buying/selling system is provided with a means for retrieving a image whose purchase is desired from an already registered image based on a keyword designated by a purchaser, a means for retrieving the image whose purchase is desired from the already registered image based on the category of the image designated by the purchaser, a means for retrieving the image whose purchase is desired from the already registered image based on the featured values of the image designated by the purchaser and a means for retrieving the already registered image similar to one or more retrieval result images additionally designated according to the retrieval result. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an image trading system for buying and selling the right to use images such as photographs, paintings, and illustrations via a network.

  For a long time, there has been a service that sells the right to use photographic materials, and an industry called photo stock or photo agency that manages the right to use images such as photographs, paintings, and illustrations as agents (agents) of photographers and painters. With the recent spread of the Internet, digital photography, computer graphics (CG), etc., these image contents have been produced abundantly, and in addition to conventional media such as posters and magazines, The use of images in electronic publications and the like is also increasing, and there are companies and businesses that provide a mechanism for searching and purchasing images while staying alive, taking advantage of the characteristics of the Internet.

  Examples of companies that provide such services include the following.

[Example 1] All B. Co., Ltd. “Digistock Photo” (http://www.digistockphoto.com/dsn/)
[Example 2] Digital Archive Japan Co., Ltd. (http://www.daj.ne.jp/)
On the other hand, digital images are also bought and sold on auction sites and business matching sites on the Internet.

  Examples of companies that provide such services include the following.

[Example 3] At Nifty “@PAY” (http://www.nifty.com/pay/outline/index.htm)
[Example 4] Rakuten Market "Rakuten Business" (http://business.rakuten.co.jp/)
Specific example 3 described above is for supporting the buying and selling of personal digital contents, and specific example 4 is a business matching service for persons who are producing digital contents etc. by SOHO (working from home).

  In addition, we do not grasp prior art documents related to this kind of business.

  In the services shown in Specific Example 1 and Specific Example 2 above, the work (material image) of a photographer (photographer) is delivered in a positive film, and a method such as reading this with a scanner on the contractor side. Since the information is digitized by hand and information to be used as a search key is manually input, it is a heavy work burden.

  In addition, from the standpoint of customers and researchers (experts who search for images based on requests from customers), the search for the target image must rely on textual search such as categories and keywords. Currently, information representing image characteristics such as “explosive” images are registered as text keywords, and registration of these keywords requires a great deal of labor and experience.

  On the other hand, the services shown in the above specific example 3 and specific example 4 do not provide sufficient search functions and have low reliability regarding various rights (copyright, portrait rights, etc.). It is currently not used.

  The present invention has been proposed in view of the above-mentioned conventional problems, and paying attention to the fact that a sufficient search function is not provided in the conventional system among the above-mentioned problems, and in particular, a search function at the time of image purchase is provided. The purpose is to provide an image buying and selling system that can promote the use of the image material and that can smoothly distribute the image material.

  In order to achieve the above object, in the image trading system of the present invention, a means for searching for an image desired to be purchased from registered images based on a keyword designated by the purchaser, and an image category designated by the purchaser. A means for retrieving an image desired to be purchased from registered images based on the image, a means for retrieving an image desired to purchase from an already registered image based on the feature amount of the image designated by the purchaser, and an addition according to the result of the search Means for further searching for registered images similar to one or more designated search result images.

  Accordingly, it is possible to easily search for an image desired to be purchased that is difficult to search using only keywords and categories based on the feature amount. Further, since an image similar to the search result is further searched, it is possible to more appropriately find an image that matches the desired image.

  Further, the feature amount of the image may be at least the color tone, outline, or pattern of the whole or part of the image. This facilitates a search using images of color tone, outline, and pattern.

  Further, it is possible to provide means for retrieving an image desired to be purchased from registered images based on a specific condition for an image designated by the purchaser or an image related to the purchaser. This makes it possible to easily search for images that can be purchased that are similar to the images at hand that are obtained from magazines and the Internet, and designers who produce works based on the client's (customer's) needs, Using images such as merchandise as specific conditions, it is possible to search for images that satisfy them.

  Further, when a search by an expert is further performed according to the search result, a means for receiving search request information including at least budget information or delivery date information in addition to the search condition can be provided. This saves search time and effort.

  Further, in the case where production by a registered writer is further performed in accordance with the search result, a means for receiving search request information including at least budget information, delivery date information, and registered writer information in addition to the above search conditions is provided. Can do. As a result, even if there is no desired registered image, the desired image can be obtained and the purchase can be promoted.

  Moreover, it can replace with an image sales system and can also be comprised as an image sales method.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the image buying and selling system which can improve the search function at the time of image purchase and can promote utilization, and can distribute | circulate an image material smoothly can be provided. As a result, the merit of using image material with clear rights such as copyright is widely recognized, and it can be expected that unauthorized use of the image material is reduced.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of an image trading system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  In FIG. 1, an image trading system 1 has a function of registering and selling images such as photographs, paintings, and illustrations to be sold. And a network album such as the Internet together with a net album system 2 having a chargeable service) and can be accessed from a plurality of client terminals 4 operated by a writer who registers an image to be sold or a purchaser of the image. It is like that. Note that the net album system 2 may be included in the image trading system 1 as a place for releasing sales images and storing purchased images in the image trading system 1.

  The image trading system 1 includes a member registration unit 11 that provides a function related to user member registration, an image registration unit 12 that provides a function related to registration of images to be sold, and an image purchase unit that provides a function related to image purchase. 13, a production request response unit 14 that provides a function related to a response to an image production request, a payment unit 15 that provides a function related to payment, and a database / table group 100 that stores information necessary for processing. Yes. In an actual system construction, a member management server, a payment management server, a storage server, an image search server, a Web server, etc. are combined due to the characteristics of hardware and applications to be used, operational reasons, etc. I will take it.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the member registration unit 11. The member registration control unit 11a that controls the entire member registration process and the type of service to be used, that is, the “writer” on the side that registers the sales image The usage type acquisition unit 11b that acquires information indicating whether the purchaser is a “purchaser” or a “purchaser”, and personal information such as name and address The personal information acquisition part 11c to acquire and the payment method acquisition part 11d which acquires the information which shows payment methods, such as a credit card number, are provided. In addition, the registration of the sales image is requested to register as a member because the registration of unauthorized images is suppressed by confirming the identity, and the registration of images without merchandise value is also charged by publishing images. This is due to reasons such as the suppression of billing and the settlement of sales prices (points). Therefore, since the person who has registered for use of the net album system 2 (FIG. 1) has been confirmed and settled, there is no need to newly register as a member. When the net album system 2 is included as a function of the image trading system 1 (FIG. 1), membership registration for the net album is not necessary.

  The member information management table 101 is an information storage area mainly used in the member registration process. As shown in FIG. 3, “No.” “Member ID” “Member name” “Purchaser flag” “Writer flag” “ Fields such as member rank, “zip code”, “address”, “phone number”, and “E-mail (address)” are provided.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the image registration unit 12. The image registration control unit 12a that controls the entire image registration process and members who are connected via the network 3 (FIG. 1) are registered members. Member authentication unit 12b for authenticating whether there is an image, image receiving unit 12c for receiving an image to be registered, and shooting information included in the received image (for example, information included in an image format called Exif: Exchangeable Image File Format) Etc.) and a feature amount extraction unit 12e that extracts a feature amount such as a color tone from the received image.

  Further, the image registration unit 12 includes a similar image search unit 12f that searches for a registered image similar to the received image, and a related information acquisition unit that acquires related information such as a category and a keyword from the image found by the similar image search. 12g, a price rank acquisition unit 12h that acquires a sales price example from the member rank, registration category, image size, and the like, and acquires detailed information from the image found by the similar image search according to the instruction of the registrant (writer) The detailed information acquisition unit 12i, the input item acquisition unit 12j for acquiring items input or selected by the registrant at the time of image registration, and the registrant self-determining that there is no problem of validity, that is, copyright, etc. A self-determination execution unit 12k to be released and a disclosure determination execution unit 1 to determine whether or not to release an image on the operator side of the image trading system 1 (FIG. 1) And l, to provide trend information of the design content to calculate the (download there are many by purchase) popular image for each of the categories from the registered image, and a popular image Index calculation unit 12m of as an option.

  As a database / table group 100 mainly used for image registration processing, a member information management table 101 used for authentication, an image database 102 for storing received images, and images for managing whether images can be disclosed, the number of downloads, etc. A management table 103; an image information management table 104 for managing shooting information; an image feature amount table 105 for managing image feature amounts; and a search key management table 106 for managing search keywords assigned to images. Is provided. Note that information acquired by each unit of the image registration unit 12 may be canceled later, so that it is temporarily stored and registered in the database / table group 100 by subsequent registration confirmation.

  FIG. 5 shows an example of the image management table 103, and includes fields such as “No.”, “Public flag”, “Price”, and “Number of downloads”.

  6 shows an example of the image information management table 104. “No.” “Member ID” “Folder name” “File name” “Photographer name” “Type” “Shooting date / time” “Capacity” “Image” Fields such as “size” are provided.

  7 shows an example of the image feature quantity table 105. Fields such as “No.”, “DB name”, “image URL”, “file name”, “thumbnail URL”, “overall color”, “contour”, and “pattern” are shown. It has.

  8 shows an example of the search key management table 106. “No.” “Image type” “Category” “Shooting country name” “Shooting place” “Color type” “Overall color” “Image direction” “Keyword” ”And other fields.

  FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the image purchasing unit 13, in which an image purchase control unit 13 a that controls the entire image purchase process and members who are connected via the network 3 (FIG. 1) are registered members. A member authentication unit 13b for authenticating whether there is a keyword; a keyword search unit 13c for searching for a registered image based on a keyword for an image to be purchased; a category search unit 13d for searching based on a category; A feature amount search unit 13e that performs a search based on the feature amount of an image, a similar image search unit 13f that searches for an image similar to an image obtained by a search such as a keyword and a category, and an image (magazine specified by a purchaser) Or a designated image similarity search unit 13g that retrieves images similar to those received from the Internet and a specific condition (client (customer (customer)) And a specific condition searching unit 13h to perform a search based on conditions) of the image, such as customers of companies and products in case the designer or the like for creating works is a purchaser on the basis of the requirements.

  In addition, the image purchase unit 13 performs a purchase process for performing purchase processing to connect to an image determined to be purchased, and a case where the search is not successful due to unfamiliarity with the operation of a personal computer or the like, or there is no time to search, etc. The search request accepting unit 13j that accepts a search request by an expert from the purchaser, and a request for the production (including photography) of the desired image by the registered writer from the purchaser when a satisfactory image cannot be found, etc. From the registered image, the production request reception unit 13k that receives the request, the search request response unit 13l that performs a response process when the search based on the request is completed, the code search unit 13m that searches the search request item based on the code, and An optional popular image ranking calculation unit 13n that calculates trend images of design contents by calculating popular images for each category is provided. That.

  As the database / table group 100 mainly used for image purchase processing, the above-described member information management table 101, image database 102, image management table 103, image information management table 104, image feature amount table 105, search key management table 106 are used. In addition, a request item management table 107 for managing specific conditions such as a customer's company and product image, and a search / production request management table 108 for managing search requests and production requests are provided.

  FIG. 10 shows an example of the request item management table 107. “No.” “Registration date” “Member ID” “Client industry” “Product type” “Target user” “Company color” “Product color” “Product color” Fields such as “Keyword” are provided.

  11 shows an example of the search / production request management table 108. “No.” “Member ID” “Client Industry” “Member Type” “Usage” “Delivery Date” “Preferred Price” “Category” “Keyword” ”And other fields.

  FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the production request response unit 14, in which a production request response control unit 14 a that controls the entire production request response process is registered with a person who is connected via the network 3 (FIG. 1). Member requesting section 14b for authenticating whether or not the member is a member, and production request case information for obtaining a list of production request items for a person who wants to receive a production request (registered writer) An acquisition unit 14c, a keyword search unit 14d for searching for a production request item based on a keyword, a category search unit 14e for searching for a production request item based on a category, and an image (an image at hand) designated by a registered writer. A specified image similarity search unit 14f that receives and retrieves an image production request similar to the received image, and a code that retrieves a production request item from the code when responding after completion of image production It includes a search unit 14 g, and an image receiving portion 14h for receiving the produced image, and the creation completion notification unit 14i to be notified by e-mail and so making completion of the image to the requester.

  As the database / table group 100 mainly used for the production request response process, the above-described member information management table 101, the image database 102, and the search / production request management table 108 are provided.

  FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the settlement unit 15, a settlement control unit 15 a that controls the entire settlement process, a billing processing unit 15 b that performs billing processing for an image purchaser, etc., an image purchaser, and a production A point granting unit 15c that gives points to the creator (in principle, points are given to the image creator, not cash), and a closing process for debiting from the credit card on a monthly basis The processing unit 15d, the point use processing unit 15e that performs a settlement process when the member uses the accumulated points at a shopping site, etc., the points are converted according to a request from the member, and the transfer process to the designated bank account And a point cashing processing unit 15f.

  The member information management table 101 and the image management table 103 described above are provided as the database / table group 100 mainly used for the settlement process.

  Next, the operation of the above embodiment will be described.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the operation of the member registration unit 11 shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 14, when a person who wants to register as a member operates the client terminal 4 (FIG. 1) and connects to the image trading system 1 (FIG. 1) via the network 3 (FIG. 1), the member registration operation starts. Under the control of the member registration control unit 11a, the usage type acquisition unit 11b is information on whether the usage type is “writer” on the side of registering the sales image or “purchaser” on the side of purchasing the image. Is acquired (step S101). In addition, it shall be allowed to be both a “writer” and a “buyer”.

  Next, the personal information acquisition unit 11c acquires personal information such as name, postal code, address, telephone number, and E-mail address from the user (step S102).

  Next, the payment method acquisition unit 11d acquires information related to the payment method such as a credit card number from the user (step S103).

  The acquired information is registered in the member information management table 101 under the control of the member registration control unit 11a (step S104).

  15 and 16 are flowcharts showing the operation of the image registration unit 12 shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 15, a person (writer) who wants to register an image to be sold operates the client terminal 4 (FIG. 1) and connects to the image trading system 1 (FIG. 1) via the network 3 (FIG. 1). When the registration operation is started, under the control of the image registration control unit 12a, the member authentication unit 12b requests the operator to input a member ID, password, etc., and manages member information using the acquired member ID, password, etc. as keys. The table 101 is searched to authenticate whether it is a registered member (step S201). The reason for limiting the registration of images to be sold to members is to maintain the reliability of the images by confirming the identity and further charging the registration. For the same reason, a person using the pay service of the net album system 2 (FIG. 1) can also register an image to be sold.

  If the authentication is rejected (No in Step S202), the process returns to the authentication process (Step S201) again. If the authentication is accepted (Yes in Step S202), the image receiving unit 12c receives the image to be registered and receives the image. Accumulate in the database 102 (step S203). Since registration may be canceled later, the received image is temporarily stored, and is actually stored when registration is confirmed later. The same applies to various types of acquired information to be described later. If the operator is also a user of the net album system 2 (FIG. 1), an image can be received from the net album system 2 by specifying an image on the net album.

  In this way, the image to be registered is based on digital data, so that it is not necessary to perform subsequent operations such as digitization, and the time required for delivery is shortened and the image is fresh with high immediacy. Can be collected and the cost for the transfer can be greatly reduced. In addition, it is possible to construct a mechanism for requesting image production to a photographer or the like in a remote place and delivering it in a short time. In addition, although the image by a digital camera etc. is preferable, even if it is a case of a silver salt photograph, registration is possible if it is digitized beforehand.

  Next, the shooting information acquisition unit 12d acquires shooting information such as Exif included in the received image (step S204). If the shooting information is not included, the acquisition is not possible. However, for operation, only those including the shooting information can be limited to registration targets. The shooting information such as Exif includes a photographer, shooting date and time, image size, camera model, lens focal length, shutter speed, aperture value, position information (latitude / longitude), and the like. By automatically acquiring shooting information in this manner, it is possible to easily input information related to subsequent images, and to collect information that can be used for searching accurately and easily. As described above, since the shooting information such as Exif has great convenience, even if the image quality is a little inferior as the image quality shot with the camera attached to the mobile phone, there is an option to accept registration if the shooting information is accompanied. It may be provided.

  Next, the feature amount extraction unit 12e analyzes the received image and extracts a feature amount (step S205). The feature amount includes, for example, a screen color tone.

  Next, the similar image search unit 12f searches for a registered image similar to the received image using the image feature amount table 105 or the like (step S206). If no similar image is found as a result of the search (No in step S207), the similarity is reduced (step S208), and the similar image is searched again (step S206).

  When similar images are found (Yes in step S207), the related information acquisition unit 12g acquires related information such as search keys assigned to the similar images from the search key management table 106 or the like (step S209). .

  Next, the price rank acquisition unit 12h calculates the sales price from the member rank, registration category, image size, and the like, and the information acquired by the processing of each unit under the control of the image registration control unit 12a is performed by the registrant's client. It is displayed on the terminal 4 (FIG. 1) (step S210). The price rank indicates a reference price for judging the merit of registration, and actual price setting can be freely performed. In addition, related information (step S209) acquired from similar images is sorted and displayed in descending order of the number of appearances so that the registrant can easily select.

  FIG. 17 shows an example of the screen 41 displayed on the client terminal 4 (FIG. 1). The upper right side shows the image type, category, shooting location, shooting time, clipping path, color type, and overall color tone. (Color tone), image direction, keyword (search key), sales price example (price rank), and the like are displayed. Among these, the information acquired by the processing of each unit described above is displayed in the embedded state, and the blank information is selected or input by the registrant's operation. Further, detailed information about the image to be registered is displayed on the upper left side of the screen 41. Further, registered images similar to the image to be registered are displayed in a list in the lower part of the screen 41, and the degree of similarity, the number of downloads (DL), the price, and the like are displayed for each. As a result, it is possible to grasp the needs of the image to be registered, the market price and the validity of the price. For example, if there is an image very similar to the image to be registered, it can be inferred that the possibility of purchase is low, and if the purchase of similar images is popular, it can be inferred that there is a great need.

  Next, returning to FIG. 15, when the registrant requests detailed information about a similar image (Yes in step S211), the detailed information acquisition unit 12i acquires the detailed information from the image information management table 104 or the like and displays it (step S21). S212). In FIG. 17, the detailed information is displayed by clicking an image in the lower part of the screen 41.

  When there is no request for detailed display (No in step S211), the input item acquisition unit 12j acquires item information approved by the user or selected or input (step S213).

  Next, the self-determination performing unit 12k requests the registrant to make a self-determination regarding the validity of the image (step S214).

  18 shows an example of the screen 42 displayed on the client terminal 4 (FIG. 1) at the time of self-judgment. “Isn't it an image contrary to public order and morals?” "Is it a copy (imitation) of other copyrighted work?" "Are you getting the consent of the person in the photo?" "Isn't it taken in a prohibited area (facility)?" By answering the message, you can confirm that there are no copyright issues.

  Returning to FIG. 15, if the self-judgment is not made because the user notices that there is an error in the item setting (No in step S 215), the item setting is performed again and the process returns to the acquisition of the input item (step S 213). If the determination is not made (Cancel in step S215), the process ends.

  If self-determination is made (Yes in step S215), the registration is confirmed, and the acquired information is registered in the corresponding database and table in the database / table group 100 (step S216). This completes the image registration process by the registrant. It should be noted that when the image registration by the registrant is performed, the image is in an unpublished state (the disclosure flag in the image management table 103 is “0”) and is not a purchase target.

  Next, in FIG. 16, the disclosure determination execution unit 121 requests the disclosure determination as to whether or not to disclose the image to the operator of the image trading system 1 (FIG. 1) in a timely manner (step S <b> 221). FIG. 19 shows an example of a screen 121 displayed on the system-side terminal at the time of release determination, along with information on the image, “confirm and release”, “request correction from the author”, “notifying the author that release is not possible” A button for selecting “contact” is provided.

  Returning to FIG. 16, when the operator determines that there is no problem after checking the image and related information (Yes in step S222), the disclosure flag of the image management table 103 is set to “1” (step S223). If it is not determined to release because the check needs to be redone (No in step S222), the check is redone, and the process returns to the execution of the release determination (step S221). Therefore, when the publication determination is suspended (Cancel in step S222), the process ends.

  20 and 21 are flowcharts showing the operation of the image purchasing unit 13 shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 20, a person who wants to purchase an image (buyer) operates the client terminal 4 (FIG. 1) and connects to the image trading system 1 (FIG. 1) via the network 3 (FIG. 1) to purchase the image. When the operation is started, under the control of the image purchase control unit 13a, the member authentication unit 13b requests the operator to input a member ID, password, etc., and the member information management table 101 using the acquired member ID, password, etc. as a key. And is authenticated whether or not it is a registered member (step S301).

  If the authentication is rejected (No in Step S302), the process returns to the authentication process (Step S301) again. If the authentication is accepted (Yes in Step S302), the purchaser selects the search method (Step S303). A search function including any one of a keyword search, a category search, a feature amount search, a specified image search, a specific condition search, or a combination thereof is provided.

  That is, the keyword search unit 13c performs a search using the search key management table 106 and the like based on the keyword set by the purchaser (step S304). The category search unit 13d performs a search using the search key management table 106 or the like based on the category set by the purchaser (step S305). The feature amount search unit 13e performs a search using the image feature amount table 105 or the like based on the feature amount of the image set by the purchaser (step S306). Then, based on the images obtained as a result of keyword search, category search, and feature amount search, the similar image search unit 13f searches for an image similar to the image using the image feature amount table 105 or the like (step S307).

  In keyword search and category search that have been used in the past, it is necessary to think about the target image by replacing it with characters or languages such as keywords or categories after the image of the target image. There are some cases that do not match. In this respect, since the search based on the feature amount of the image is based on what can be objectively grasped such as color, shape, and pattern, there is an advantage that the image closer to the image imaged by the purchaser can be searched. Further, by searching for an image similar to the image from the search results obtained based on the keyword, category, and feature amount, it is possible to confirm whether there is an image closer to the desired one. Searching and presenting similar images will increase the number of items to be selected, but there is room for selection even for similar images due to differences in image resolution, rights form (contents of usage rights, etc.), price, etc. Therefore, the system can meet the demands of the purchaser.

  FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an example of the screen 43 of the purchaser's client terminal 4 (FIG. 1) when performing the above-described image search. An area for instructing keyword search is provided in the upper left column, and category search is performed in the lower left column. An area for instructing feature amount search is provided on the right. Here, a color designation image search based on the color tone as the feature amount is shown. In addition, it is assumed that the search is started from the color image regardless of the content of the image, such as the corporate color of the company (corporate color) or the color that symbolizes the image of the product. The utility value is considered high.

  On the other hand, referring back to FIG. 20, the designated image similarity search unit 13g receives the image designated by the purchaser (step S308), and searches for an image similar to the received image using the image feature quantity table 105 or the like (step S309). ). FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of the screen 44 of the purchaser's client terminal 4 (FIG. 1) when performing the above-mentioned designated image search, and a button for designating and transmitting an image is provided in the upper stage. In the lower part, an image of the search result is shown. Use the independent utility software with the specified image similarity search function described above to search and display stored images similar to images found on the Internet, and promote sales activities for image trading systems. You can also.

  Returning to FIG. 20, the specific condition search unit 13h performs a search based on the conditions registered in the request item management table 107 (step S310). Image materials are often used by various designers and editors of publications, but they search for the images they need based on their own ideas, and many of them are from client companies, planning companies, advertising companies, etc. In many cases, the image material required for the design is selected according to the requirements of the company. Therefore, these requests are categorized in advance and a frame is created as the request item management table 107, the user fills in the request items, and images that match those requests are added to the design content trend information. To search. The data accumulated in the request item management table 107 is analyzed later, and feedback for improving the search accuracy is performed in consideration of the information of the finally adopted image.

  Next, when the desired image is obtained by the above search (Yes in step S311), the purchase processing unit 13i specifies the purchase image (step S312), downloads the image (step S313), and performs a settlement process. (Step S314). Instead of downloading the image, the image can be registered in an album space (free to use) on the system so that the purchaser can access it. If the purchaser is also a user of the net album system 2 (FIG. 1), the purchase history of images and purchase images can be automatically registered in the net album.

  On the other hand, if the desired image is not obtained (No in step S311), the search request accepting unit 13j is used to request a search by an expert on the system side in accordance with the selection of the request method by the purchaser (step S315). Acquires the contents of the search request (step S316), and registers the search request in the search / production request management table 108 (step S317). Note that the conditions set by the purchaser up to the request are carried over to the contents of the search request, and it is only necessary to add items such as a budget and delivery date.

  When requesting the production of an image, the production request receiving unit 13k acquires the content of the production request (step S318) and registers the production request with respect to the search / production request management table 108 (step S319). For example, in the case of a photographic image, a production request specifying the location, season, time zone, etc., such as “Sakura at Hirosaki Castle” or “Mt. Fuji” is also made (predicting that photographers living in the area will respond) be able to. Further, the conditions set by the purchaser up to the request are carried over to the contents of the production request, and it is only necessary to add items such as a budget and a delivery date. The price (budget) varies according to the request method.

  Next, the production request receiving unit 13k discloses the requested content to registered artists (step S320). Here, the release of the production request is equally open to all registered artists. You can also request productions from artists individually.

  Next, in FIG. 21, when the expert on the system side completes the search according to the search request, the code search unit 13m searches based on the code set by the operator under the operation of the search request response unit 13l. A request item is searched using the production request management table 108 (step S321), the request item is specified, and the search result is notified to the requester (purchaser) by e-mail or the like (step S322).

  In the above description, the search request and the production request are made in the middle of the search, but the request may be made directly without searching for the image.

  24 and 25 are flowcharts showing the operation of the production request response unit 14 shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 24, a person (writer) who wants to receive a production request operates the client terminal 4 (FIG. 1) to connect to the image trading system 1 (FIG. 1) via the network 3 (FIG. 1) and respond to the production request. Is started, the member authentication unit 14b requests the operator to input a member ID, password, etc. under the control of the production request response control unit 14a, and manages member information using the acquired member ID, password, etc. as a key. The table 101 is searched to authenticate whether it is a registered member (step 401).

  If the authentication is rejected (No in Step S402), the process returns to the authentication process (Step S401) again. If the authentication is accepted (Yes in Step S402), the production request matter information acquisition unit 14c performs search / production request management. The production request items are acquired from the table 108 and displayed in a list (step S403). If the operator can find a case that can be handled (Yes in step S404), the processing is terminated by recording the case code and the content of the production request at hand. When the operator is also a user of the net album system 2 (FIG. 1), the code of the selected request item can be registered in the net album as an auxiliary function.

  If a compatible case cannot be found (No in step S404), a search function based on a keyword or category and a search function based on a designated image are provided according to the selection of a search method by the operator (step S405).

  When search by keyword or category is selected, the keyword search unit 14d searches for a production request item using the search / production request management table 108 or the like based on the keyword set by the operator, and the category search unit 14e The production request item is searched using the search / production request management table 108 or the like based on the set category (step S406).

  When the search based on the designated image is selected, the designated image similarity search unit 14f receives the image designated by the operator (step S407), and retrieves an image production request similar to the received image (step S408). ).

  Next, based on the search result, the production request item information acquisition unit 14c acquires the production request item from the search / production request management table 108 and displays it (step S410).

  Here, if a compatible case cannot be found, the process is terminated, and if it is possible, the process is terminated by recording the case code and the content of the production request at hand.

  Next, in FIG. 25, the writer completes the production of the image in response to the production request and operates the client terminal 4 (FIG. 1) to connect to the image trading system 1 (FIG. 1) via the network 3 (FIG. 1). When the operation of the production request response is started, the member authentication unit 14b requests the operator to input the member ID, password, etc. under the control of the production request response control unit 14a, and the acquired member ID, password, etc. The member information management table 101 is searched for the key to authenticate whether or not the member is registered (step 411).

  When the authentication is rejected (No at Step S412), the process returns to the authentication process (Step S411) again. When the authentication is accepted (Yes at Step S412), the code search unit 14g is based on the code set by the operator. The requested case is identified by searching the requested case using the search / production request management table 108 (step S413).

  Next, the image receiving unit 14h receives an image produced by the writer as digital data via the network 3 (FIG. 1) (step S414). If the operator is also a user of the net album system 2 (FIG. 1), an image can be received from the net album system 2 by specifying an image on the net album.

  Next, the production completion notifying unit 14i specifies the requested case and notifies the requester (purchaser) of the production completion by e-mail or the like (step S415). The delivery of the produced image and completion notification are performed via the network, so that the request of the client can be satisfied in a short time and at a low cost.

  If multiple authors produce images for the same production request, the client can purchase only the one that suits the purpose, and the images that were not adopted will be reviewed by the system operator. And is stored as an image to be purchased.

  On the other hand, it is expected that there will be no authors who will respond to production requests, but even in that case, by analyzing the contents of the request, you can know the tendency of images with high needs, assortment of image inventory, etc. Can be reflected.

  FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing the operation of the settlement unit 15 shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 26, the settlement unit 15 performs different processing according to the processing type (step S501) under the control of the settlement control unit 15a.

  When the image is purchased, the charging processing unit 15b performs a process of charging the member who purchased the price of the purchased image (step S502). In addition, for image registration, charging is performed according to the number and capacity of images (for example, 1 yen / sheet / month, 5000 yen / 500 MB / year,...). In addition, for the service user of the net album system 2 (FIG. 1), the usage fee can be replaced with the usage fee for image registration.

  Next, the point giving unit 15c gives points corresponding to the purchase price to the member who is the creator of the purchase image, and also gives points to the purchaser for using the service (step S503).

  Further, the closing processing unit 15d accumulates the amount charged by each member on a monthly basis, and performs a closing process for debiting from a credit card (step S504). Members who are also users of the net album system 2 (FIG. 1) can be withdrawn in a lump.

  In addition, the point use processing unit 15e performs a settlement process when the accumulated points are used at a shopping site or the like (step S505).

  Further, the point cash processing unit 15f cashes the points in response to a request from the member, and performs a transfer process to the designated bank account (step S506).

  The present invention has been described above by the preferred embodiments of the present invention. While the invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments, various modifications and changes may be made to the embodiments without departing from the broad spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims. Obviously you can. In other words, the present invention should not be construed as being limited by the details of the specific examples and the accompanying drawings.

  For example, although the above embodiment has been described assuming that a still image is mainly used as an image, it is obvious that a moving image is included in an image to be registered and purchased. In that case, in the image search, it is possible to easily cope with a few supplements such as automatically detecting a scene switching portion in a moving image and extracting an image feature amount by using a representative cut as a still image for each scene. is there.

It is a block diagram of the image sales system concerning one Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of a member registration part. It is a figure which shows the example of a member information management table. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of an image registration part. It is a figure which shows the example of an image management table. It is a figure which shows the example of an image information management table. It is a figure which shows the example of an image feature-value table. It is a figure which shows the example of a search key management table. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of an image purchase part. It is a figure which shows the example of a request item management table. It is a figure which shows the example of a search / production request management table. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of a production request response part. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of a payment part. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of a member registration part. It is a flowchart (the 1) which shows operation | movement of an image registration part. It is a flowchart (the 2) which shows operation | movement of an image registration part. It is a figure which shows the example of the display screen at the time of image registration. It is a figure which shows the example of the display screen at the time of self-determination. It is a figure which shows the example of the display screen at the time of public determination. It is a flowchart (the 1) which shows operation | movement of an image purchasing part. It is a flowchart (the 2) which shows operation | movement of an image purchasing part. It is a figure which shows the example of the display screen at the time of an image search. It is a figure which shows the example of the display screen at the time of designated image search. It is a flowchart (the 1) which shows operation | movement of a production request response part. It is a flowchart (the 2) which shows operation | movement of a production request response part. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of a payment part.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Image trading system 11 Member registration part 12 Image registration part 13 Image purchase part 14 Production request response part 15 Settlement part 100 Database / table group 2 Net album system 3 Network 4 Client terminal

Claims (10)

Means for searching for an image desired to be purchased from registered images based on a keyword specified by the buyer;
Means for searching for an image desired to be purchased from registered images based on an image category designated by the purchaser;
Means for searching for an image desired to be purchased from registered images based on the feature amount of the image designated by the purchaser;
An image trading system comprising: means for further searching for a registered image similar to one or a plurality of search result images additionally designated according to the search result.   The image trading system according to claim 1, wherein the feature amount of the image is at least a color tone, an outline, and a pattern of the whole or a part related to the image.   3. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising means for searching for an image desired to be purchased from registered images based on a specific condition for an image designated by the purchaser or an image related to the purchaser. Image trading system.   2. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising means for receiving search request information including at least budget information or delivery date information in addition to the search condition when a search is further performed by an expert according to the search result. 4. The image trading system according to any one of 3.   In addition to the above search conditions, in addition to the above search conditions, there is provided means for receiving search request information including at least budget information, delivery date information, and registered writer information, in accordance with the search result. The image buying and selling system according to any one of claims 1 to 4. Searching for images to purchase from registered images based on keywords specified by the buyer;
Searching for a desired purchase image from registered images based on the category of the image specified by the purchaser;
Searching for an image desired to be purchased from registered images based on the feature amount of the image specified by the purchaser;
And a step of further searching for a registered image similar to one or a plurality of search result images additionally designated according to the search result.   The image trading method according to claim 6, wherein the feature amount of the image is at least a color tone, a contour, and a pattern of the whole or a part of the image.   8. The method according to claim 6, further comprising a step of retrieving an image desired to be purchased from an already registered image based on a specific condition for an image designated by the purchaser or an image related to the purchaser. Image buying and selling method.   7. The method according to claim 6, further comprising a step of accepting search request information including at least budget information or delivery date information in addition to the search condition when a search by an expert is further performed in accordance with the search result. The image buying and selling method according to any one of 8.   According to the search result, in the case where production by a registered writer is further performed, a step of receiving search request information including at least budget information, delivery date information, and registered writer information in addition to the search conditions is provided. The image buying and selling method according to any one of claims 6 to 9.