JP2006011734A - Photograph print order system, server system thereof, and photograph processing system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a system which can surely use print request data inputted at print order via network in image processing work and which dissolves complexity of the work of the operator who performs print processing. <P>SOLUTION: This system is provided with an image data preservation part 20 which preserves image data uploaded to a server 1 on a network, an order data generation means 18 which generates order data to request print processing, and an order data preservation part 19 which preserves the order data and the image data. The server 1 is provided with a means providing screens in which print request data is input and a means 21 where the request data is preserved. A system 3 of photo shop side is provided with an order data acquiring means 41 which downloads and acquires order data, image data and request data preserved in the server 1, a display control means 50a which displays image data and request data on the screen, and thumbnail image generation means 23 and 50d which display images in thumbnail images. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a photo print ordering system constituted by a server system installed on a network, a client system for accessing the server system, and a photo processing system on the photo shop side, and a server system provided with the photo print ordering system. The present invention relates to a photo processing system.

  It is very common to order photo prints by taking a photographed negative film or digital camera storage medium to a photo shop. On the other hand, a system for ordering photo prints via a network such as the Internet (photo print ordering system) is gradually spreading. This system can be realized by installing a server system on the Internet and mounting a function for placing a print order on the network in the server system (for example, Patent Document 1 below).

  For example, a customer who wants to place an online print order accesses the home page of the server system using his / her personal computer. Then, upload the image data that you want to request to create a photo print from your personal computer to the server system. The customer sets the number of prints and print size for each uploaded image. In addition, a photo shop that requests a print order is set. When these settings are completed, the order details are confirmed, and if OK, a predetermined button is clicked to confirm the order details. The confirmed order data is stored in a predetermined order data storage unit set in the server system.

  The photo shop side can also check the presence of order data for their own photo shop using a personal computer or the like. Then, the order data including the image data is downloaded, and a photo print is created by the photo processing apparatus. The finished photo print is provided by the customer visiting the photo store directly or sending the photo print from the photo store to the customer's home.

  When a print processing request is received via the Internet as described above, request data at the time of printing may be received from a customer. Such print request data is downloaded together with order data and image data. For example, there is a request for image correction such as a brighter overall finish or a desire to make the skin color beautiful. The photo shop performs image processing (image correction) based on such a request, and the customer's preference We provide photo prints that suit your needs.

However, even when such print request data is received, software for managing order data and software for actually performing image processing on image data are provided separately. Work to confirm print request data was necessary. In other words, it is necessary to switch between the screen for managing print processing orders (screen for request data confirmation) and the screen for image processing, and to check the print request data for notes. there were. Therefore, the operator's work has been complicated. In addition, forgetting to take notes and creating prints that do not meet customer requirements. Furthermore, in a photo shop that wants to avoid such complicated work as described above, there is a case in which a request from a customer is not accepted in response to a print processing request from the network.
JP 2002-218124 A

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and the problem is that the print request data input in the print order via the network can be reliably used in the image processing work, and the work of the operator who performs the print processing It is to provide a photo print ordering system that can eliminate the complexity of the above, a server system that constitutes the photo print ordering system, and a photo processing system.

In order to solve the above problems, a photo print ordering system according to the present invention includes:
A photo print ordering system is composed of a server system installed on the network, a client system that accesses the server system, and a photo processing system on the photo shop side. The photo print ordering system is uploaded to the server system. An image data storage unit that stores the image data, an order data generation unit that generates order data for requesting print processing for the stored image data, and an order data storage unit that stores the order data A photo print ordering system comprising:
Means for providing an input screen for inputting print request data relating to print processing;
Means for storing input print request data in association with image data related to print processing;
The photo processing system provided on the photo shop side
Order data acquisition means for downloading and acquiring order data stored in the order data storage unit and image data and print request data relating to the print order;
A display control means for displaying the downloaded image data and print request data on the same screen is provided.

  The operation and effect of the photo print ordering system with this configuration will be described. A server system is installed on a network such as the Internet, and a function for placing a print order via the network is installed in the server system. A person who wants to place a print order via the network accesses the server system using a client system (for example, a personal computer in his home or company). When requesting print processing, uploading image data for which a print order is to be placed, image data is stored in the image data storage unit of the server system. When requesting print processing, order data is generated by the order data generation means, and order data (data such as print size and number of prints) is stored in the order data storage unit. The order data generation means and the order data storage unit can be configured in a server system or a client system.

  Furthermore, a function for inputting print request data is provided. For example, there is a method in which a text box is provided on a computer screen and a request is input here. The print request data is mainly a request regarding the image quality of a photographic print, for example, “I want the skin color to be beautiful”. This print request data is stored in the server system or the client system in a state associated with the image data related to the print processing. The means for inputting the print request data can be provided in the server system or the client system.

  On the other hand, the photo shop that receives the print order is provided with a photo processing system, which can access the server system and download and acquire order data, image data, and print request data. Further, the downloaded image data and print request data are displayed on the same screen by the function of the display control means.

  According to such a configuration, since the image and the print request data can be displayed together on the computer screen, it is possible to eliminate a troublesome operation of switching the screen and confirming the request content. Further, the print request data is processed so as to be displayed together with the image data, and complicated work such as writing down the request in a memo is eliminated. As a result, it is possible to provide a photo print ordering system that can reliably use print request data input in a print order via a network in an image processing operation and can eliminate the trouble of an operator who performs the print processing. it can.

A server system constituting the photo print ordering system according to the present invention,
An image data storage unit for storing uploaded image data;
And means for storing the input print request data in association with the image data related to the print processing.

  With this configuration, the above-described functions and effects can be exhibited.

  In the present invention, it is preferable that there is provided thumbnail image generation means for generating thumbnail image data to be displayed on the same screen as the print request data from the image data related to the order.

  The server system having such a configuration is provided with thumbnail image generation means, and generates thumbnail image data of image data related to the order. Accordingly, when the photo processing system accesses to obtain order data or the like, the thumbnail image data can be downloaded together with the print request data. Thereby, in the photo processing system, the thumbnail image and the print request data can be displayed on the same screen.

Another server system constituting the photo print ordering system according to the present invention is:
An image data storage unit for storing uploaded image data;
Order data generating means for generating order data for requesting print processing for the stored image data;
An order data storage unit for storing this order data so that it can be downloaded from the photo shop side,
Means for providing an input screen for inputting print request data relating to print processing;
Means for storing the input print request data in association with the order data;
It is characterized by comprising thumbnail image generating means for generating thumbnail image data to be displayed on the same screen as the print request data from the image data related to the order.

  The server system having such a configuration is provided with thumbnail image generation means, and generates thumbnail image data of image data related to the order. Therefore, when the photo processing system accesses to acquire order data, thumbnail image data can be downloaded together with order data and print request data. Thereby, in the photo processing system, the thumbnail image and the print request data can be displayed on the same screen.

A photo processing system for constituting a photo print ordering system according to the present invention includes:
Order data acquisition means for downloading and acquiring order data stored in the server system and image data and print request data relating to the print order;
A display control means for displaying the downloaded image data and print request data on the screen is provided.

  The photo processing system can access the server system and download and acquire order data, image data and print request data relating to the print order. The display control means can display the downloaded image data and print request data together on the screen.

In the present invention, the downloaded image data includes at least thumbnail image data generated by the server system,
The display control means preferably displays the thumbnail image data and the print request data on the same screen.

  If thumbnail image data is generated in the server system, it can be downloaded and acquired, and the thumbnail image data and the print request data can be displayed on the same screen.

In the present invention, comprising thumbnail image generation means for generating thumbnail image data from the downloaded image data,
The display control means preferably displays the thumbnail image data and the print request data on the same screen.

  The thumbnail image data can be generated not on the server system but on the photo processing system side. Also in this case, the thumbnail image data and the print request data can be displayed on the same screen.

  In the present invention, it is preferable that a means for linking a thumbnail image displayed on the screen with the original image data is provided, and the original image is displayed on the screen by an operation of selecting the thumbnail image.

  Since thumbnail images are displayed together with the print request data, a configuration that can display an original size image (original image) is also necessary. Therefore, it is preferable to provide a means for linking with the original image data and display the original image on the screen by selecting a thumbnail image. For example, when a thumbnail image displayed on the screen is clicked, the original image data of the link destination can be read and displayed. The data representing the link destination may be a URL designating a URL in the server system, or a format designating the original image data if it has already been downloaded to the photo processing system.

In the present invention, means for displaying an input field for inputting comment data of a print processing result on a screen for displaying thumbnail image data and print request data;
It is preferable that a reply means for replying the input comment data to the order requester is provided.

  By providing such a comment input field. At the photo shop side, it is possible to input how the request for print order is reflected. This comment data is returned to the requester by the reply means. Accordingly, the requester can confirm whether or not the print processing according to his / her request has been performed. As a reply means, it can carry out by e-mail, for example.

  In the present invention, it is preferable that image processing means for enabling an image processing operation on the original image on the screen on which the original image is displayed is provided.

  Image processing can be performed on the screen while the original image is displayed. Therefore, the operator can perform work while confirming the contents of the print request data, and can perform image processing that reliably reflects the request of the client.

  In the present invention, it is preferable that image processing means for enabling image processing work using a screen for displaying thumbnail image data and print request data is preferably provided.

  According to this configuration, the image processing operation can be performed while the thumbnail image is displayed. Accordingly, the image processing operation can be performed while confirming the print request data displayed on the same screen. As a result, image processing that reliably reflects the request of the client can be performed.

  In the present invention, it is preferable to include means for transmitting corrected image data corrected based on print request data to the server system and storing the corrected image data in the server system.

  By transmitting the corrected image data to the server system and storing it, the requester of the print process can check whether the print process according to the request has been performed while viewing the actual image. While viewing this image, it is possible to make a request for reprint processing to the photo shop as necessary.

  A preferred embodiment of a photographic print ordering system according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an outline of the system. When requesting a photo print from a photo shop, the customer usually brings the storage medium on which an image is recorded with a photographed negative film or digital camera directly to the photo shop. On the other hand, an online photo print ordering system in which a customer can request creation of a photo print without visiting the photo store directly is known, and the present invention also relates to this.

<System overview>
A server system 1 on the Internet (an example of a network) is installed and constitutes the core of a photo print ordering system according to the present invention. The server system 1 has a function of accepting a photo print creation order via the Internet, and various software and hardware for realizing the function are installed. The server system 1 includes one or a plurality of server devices in terms of hardware. Preferably, in order to distribute the load, it is preferable to configure a plurality of server devices according to functions. For example, an order receiving server, a database server, a Web server, and the like. The network does not ask wired / wireless, and various forms can be adopted.

  A customer (orderer) can access the server system 1 via the Internet. A personal computer 2 (which is a computer and constitutes a client system) is generally used for access, but access by a mobile device such as a PDA or a mobile phone is also possible. In order for the customer to access the server system 1 and use the order system, it is necessary to register as a member in advance. A well-known procedure can be used for the procedure of member registration. The customer uses the personal computer 2 to access the home page of the server system 1 to open a predetermined order page and follow a predetermined procedure such as uploading image data to request a photo print order via the Internet. can do.

  Although details will be described later, the uploaded image data can be displayed on the monitor screen of the customer's personal computer 2 in an album format. A photo print request can be made by selecting an arbitrary image from among a large number of images displayed in the album format. The album provision can be realized by the function of album provision means provided in the server system 1.

  On the other hand, the photo store on the order receiving side can also access the server system 1, and when there is an order for a photo print from its own photo store, the order data including the image data is downloaded. be able to. The photo store can be accessed to the server system 1 using the photo processing system 3 in which order management software is installed. In order for a photo shop to receive a photo print order on the Internet, it is necessary to register as a member in the same way as a customer.

  The photo processing system 3 is provided with a photo processing device 31 having a function of creating a photo print. The photo processing system 3 can perform photo print creation processing using image data downloaded from the server system 1. The photographic processing device 31 can be of a known structure. That is, the photographic processing device 31 prints and exposes an image on a photographic photosensitive material using the image data, and develops the photographic photosensitive material to create a photographic print.

  Various modifications of the configuration of the photographic processing system 3 are possible. For example, the function of accepting orders via the Internet may be configured separately from the apparatus main body. In this case, a personal computer (reception terminal) having a function of an order reception unit and the photo processing device 31 are connected by a communication line.

  The photo shop is not limited to a specific type of photo shop. It may be in the form of a private business or a chain store. It is not limited to photo shops. The size of the photo shop is not limited to a specific one.

<Server system configuration>
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing various functions of the server system 1 of the photo print ordering system shown in FIG. The transmission / reception unit 10 has a function of receiving data transmitted via the Internet and transmitting data to the Internet. The data processing unit 11 performs various processes related to data received through the transmission / reception unit 10 and data to be transmitted through the transmission / reception unit 10. For example, the received data is analyzed, and processing based on the analysis result is executed. If a home page (Web page) is requested, the corresponding home page data is extracted from the database and sent to the requesting computer. And send it back.

  Further, the data processing unit 11 has a CGI (interface for using an external program on a Web server) function, and when a script placed in the server system 1 is activated, a CGI application is executed and a photo print ordering system is executed. Realize necessary functions. Each function shown in FIG. 2 can also be realized by this CGI, but the present invention is not limited to this. The executed result is sent back to the customer side or photo shop side computer as HTML data by the data processing unit 11.

  The authentication system 12 authenticates whether or not a member is registered. In order for a customer or photo shop to use this order system, it is necessary to register as a member first, and an ID and a password are given. When a customer confirms an order for print processing and order contents, authentication based on member registration is required. Authentication is also required when the photo shop confirms the order contents or downloads the order data. As the authentication system, a known system can be used.

  The data of the customer who has registered as a member is stored in the customer database 13. The data of the photo shop that has registered as a member is stored in the photo shop database 14. The databases 13 and 14 are controlled by the database control unit 15. Various data can be stored as customer data and photo store data.

  The Web page storage unit 16 stores Web page data including a home page (top page). By designating the URL corresponding to each page, the designated Web page can be displayed on the customer's personal computer 2 or the monitor screen on the photo shop side. Web page data is described based on HTML. In addition, page data for providing an online album is also stored.

  The album providing means 17 provides a tool for displaying the image data uploaded by the customer's personal computer 2 in the form of an album. By registering as a member, a dedicated page is assigned to the individual, and an online album is provided to the individual by linking the page and the URL where the uploaded image data is stored. be able to. A specific screen configuration example of the online album will be described later (see FIG. 8).

  The order data generation means 18 has a function of generating order data for ordering print processing online. As described above, with respect to the image data uploaded by the customer, it is possible to request the print processing by designating an image that the user desires to print. When requesting print processing, for example, an image displayed as an online album is selected, and a print size and the number of prints are designated. In addition, the photo shop to request print processing is specified. The photo store can display a list of photo store data registered in the photo store database and select one of them. This point will be described later with reference to FIG.

  The above order data can be set on the Web screen. Order data can be generated by inputting data necessary for print processing on the screen and confirming the input data. The order data includes data necessary for print processing (text data such as data representing the print size described above) and image data to be subjected to print processing. In addition, when ordering a print, print request data relating to the image quality of a photographic print can be input. For example, “To make skin color beautiful”, “To make the image brighter as a whole”, “To make backlighting correction and red-eye correction”, “To make a retro-like finish”, etc. . This is provided as a print request input means 18a of the order data generation means 18, and provides an input field such as a text box on the customer's personal computer screen.

  Order data is stored in the order data storage unit 19 (database). The order data generated by the order data generating means 18 is stored. Order data is managed on a customer-by-customer or photoshop-by-customer basis, and a customer who has requested print processing can view a list of his / her order data. In addition, the photo shop can see a list of order data designated as the print processing request destination.

  A large number of image data uploaded by a customer is stored in the image data storage unit 20 and stored in a state of being associated with customer data (customer ID). In addition, image data designated to be pasted on an online album is associated with an ID that identifies the online album. In addition, image data that is the target of print processing in order data is also associated with an order ID that identifies the order. Therefore, both order data and image data corresponding to the order data can be downloaded from the photo shop.

  The request data storage unit 21 stores the print request data described above. The print request data can be stored in the form of a text file or the like, and is stored in a state associated with the order data.

  The database control unit 22 controls the order data storage unit 19, the image data storage unit 20, and the request data storage unit 21. For example, if there is a download request for specific order data, the image data and print request data associated with the order data are read out and transmitted (downloaded) to the request destination.

  The thumbnail image generation means 23 has a function of generating thumbnail image data having a smaller data size based on the uploaded image data. There are two main purposes for generating the thumbnail image data: a case where the thumbnail image data is provided as an online album, and a case where the thumbnail image data is generated so as to be downloaded together with the order data to the photo processing system 3. Thumbnail image data having a size suitable for each purpose is generated.

<Photo processing system configuration>
Next, the photo processing apparatus 31 constituting the photo processing system 3 will be described. The photographic processing device 31 can be of a known structure. The configuration of the photographic processing apparatus will be briefly described with reference to the schematic diagram of FIG.

  The photo processing device 31 is installed with software for downloading order data from the server system 1 and managing the order. The transmission / reception unit 40 transmits / receives data via the Internet. The order receiving unit 41 has a function of receiving orders downloaded via the Internet. That is, the order receiving unit 41 has a function as a data acquisition unit that downloads and acquires order data, image data, and print request data from the server system 1.

  The photo processing apparatus 31 can accept print orders not only from the Internet but also at the store, and an image input unit 42 is provided for this purpose. The image input unit 42 can acquire image data from a storage medium deposited by a customer who has visited a photo shop. For example, image data can be acquired from various media such as a storage medium for a digital camera, a CD-R, and an MO disk.

  The downloaded order data is stored in the order data storage unit 43. The image data is stored in the image data storage unit 44 while being associated with the order data. The print request data is also stored in the request data storage unit 45 in a state associated with the order data. Each order is given a unique identification number, and thus each data can be linked. The identification number can be assigned in order units.

  Next, the function of image processing will be described. When a photographic print is created using image data, a work called pre-judgement (one of image processing work) is performed. In this image processing, a predetermined number of images are displayed on the monitor screen to determine whether the color / density is appropriate, and color / density correction data is input as necessary. In order to perform such work, image processing software 50 (corresponding to image processing means) is provided and installed in the photo processing apparatus 31. Prejudgment includes setting of the number of prints and trimming, as well as image processing based on print request data.

  The display control means 50a provides various display screens for the operator to perform image processing. The generated display data is displayed on the monitor 51. The pre-judge screen providing means 50b provides a screen for performing pre-judge, and can display, for example, six frames of images as shown in FIG. The number of frames to be displayed can be set as appropriate. In addition, the operator can select a screen such as 4 frames, 8 frames, 16 frames, and the like that allows easy operation.

  The order screen providing means 50c provides a screen (hereinafter referred to as an order management screen) for displaying the downloaded image data and print request data. For example, the order screen providing means 50c has a screen configuration as shown in FIG. can do. On this order management screen, not only images but also downloaded print request data can be displayed together. As will be described later, this screen may also be used as a screen for performing the above-mentioned pre-judgement.

  The thumbnail image generating means 50d has a function of generating thumbnail image data for displaying an image on the pre-judge screen or the order management screen. In order to display as many images as possible on these screens, thumbnail images are displayed. The size of the thumbnail image is automatically adjusted so as to have an appropriate data size according to the number of images displayed on one screen.

  The link means 50e is a means for linking the thumbnail image displayed on the screen and the image data from which the thumbnail image is generated. The original image display means 50f is means for reading the linked image data and displaying the original image on the screen. As an example of a method of linking, a method of embedding link information (URL or the like) in a thumbnail image can be given as an example. As a link destination, a storage location in the image data storage unit 20 of the server system 1 may be designated by a URL, or if the original image data exists in the image data storage unit 44 of the photo processing system 3, that location (File storage location and file name) may be specified.

  Further, as will be described later, the order management screen and the pre-judge screen are provided not only with print request data but also with a field for inputting comment data regarding customer requests when the print processing is completed ( (See FIGS. 4 and 6). They are shown as a display field 62 and an input field 63, respectively. The input comment can be returned to the print requester by clicking the send button 64. For this reason, the image processing software 50 is linked to the e-mail software 52 (corresponding to a reply means), and the input computer is replied as an e-mail to the address designated by the requester. Thereby, the customer can confirm in advance how the print request he / she entered is reflected in the photo print.

  The correction data storage unit 53 stores correction data input in the image processing operation. In addition to color / density correction data, special corrections such as red-eye correction and backlight correction, correction data based on print request data, and the like are stored.

  The corrected image data generation unit 54 has a function of generating corrected image data using the correction data and the original image data. The corrected image data can be transmitted to the server system 1 via the transmission / reception unit 40. When transmitted to the server system 1, the corrected image data is stored in a predetermined folder of the image data storage unit 20, and the customer who is the client displays the image corrected by the corrected image data on the screen of his / her personal computer 2. Can be seen in As a result, the customer can confirm whether or not the print has been created as desired. If it does not meet your request, you can take measures such as instructing the photo shop to reprint.

  The print control unit 55 has a function of reading out image data stored in the image data storage unit 44 and actually executing print processing. That is, in the pre-judge, when the pre-judge for the image for one order is completed, it is possible to shift to a process for creating a photo print. For example, a print process is started by clicking a print start button on the screen.

  The image processing board 56 is an image processing unit configured by hardware, and includes correction data obtained by pre-judge work (image processing work) and data (print size and data necessary for print processing set on the pre-judge screen). Using the image data read out from the image data storage unit 44, print image data suitable for image exposure is generated. The generated image data for printing is transferred to the exposure engine 57.

  As the exposure engine 57, an appropriate type of engine such as a laser engine, a PLZT engine, or a CRT engine can be used. The exposure engine prints and exposes an image on the emulsion surface of paper, which is a photographic material, using the transferred image data for printing. Image formation is performed by scanning exposure.

  The paper is pulled out from a paper magazine (not shown) attached to the photo processing device 31 and cut into a designated print size by a paper cutter (not shown). The cut paper is conveyed to the exposure engine.

  The paper on which the image is printed and exposed by the exposure engine 57 is subjected to development processing and drying processing in the development / drying processing units 58 and 59. After this process is completed, the finished photographic print is discharged outside the apparatus.

<Online print order procedure>
Next, the procedure until the customer accesses the server system 1 and places a print order will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  First, the customer accesses the server system 1 using the personal computer 2 (# 1). To order prints online, you need to register as a member. If the membership registration has already been completed, after passing through the authentication procedure, the page shifts to a dedicated page (# 2, 3). Display the online album here. If it is necessary to upload an image to be pasted on the album, the image data is uploaded (# 5).

  Next, a configuration example of the display screen of the online album will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 8, six images 103 are displayed, and a title 100 is displayed at the upper left of the screen. When the number of images 103 constituting the album increases, it is displayed over a plurality of pages. Each image 103 is a thumbnail image, and the file name 101 of each image 103 is also displayed at the bottom of the image. When requesting print processing for the displayed image 103, a print order button 102 (icon) is clicked. This shifts to the print request screen (# 6).

  FIG. 9 is a configuration example of a print request screen displayed when the print order button 102 is clicked. On the screen, information about a photo shop requesting the printing process is displayed in area 110. Search for a photo shop can be performed by clicking the button 111, and any photo shop registered as a member can be selected. The displayed photo shop information includes the photo shop name, opening hours, print size and fee. The print request screen corresponds to an input screen for inputting print request data regarding print processing.

  Further, the image shown in FIG. 8 is also displayed as the thumbnail image 112 in FIG. The check box 112a is checked for images to be printed. By removing the check, it can be removed from the target of print processing. Thereby, it is possible to select an image to be printed. Further, the print size can be selected with the radio button 113. Also, a numerical value for the number of prints is entered in the text box 114. By inputting these numerical values, order data is sequentially generated. Images and album names are displayed in area 117.

  If the user wants to add an image for which print processing is requested, the user can move to a screen for uploading an image by clicking a button 115. If it is desired to request print processing for another album, an image of another album can be selected by clicking on the operation unit 116. That is, an individual can create a plurality of albums and manage images.

  Also, when requesting a print process, print request data can be input to the photo shop. For this purpose, an input field 118 is provided. The input to this input field is arbitrary, and it is not necessary to input. The print request data may be input for each image, or may be input for a request for the entire image for which printing is requested. In the illustrated example, the screen configuration is such that a request for the whole is input.

  As described above, when the input of the print data, the selection of the image, and the input of the print request data are completed (# 7 to 9), when the confirmation button is clicked, the order data is transmitted to the server system 1, and the server system 1 Data processing is performed by the order data generation means 18. HTML data for displaying the confirmed order data on the customer's personal computer screen is sent back to the personal computer 2. This shifts to the order confirmation screen (# 10).

  If there is a part to be corrected regarding the order contents, the process returns to step # 7, and correction input is appropriately performed. If there is no correction, an order content confirmation process is performed (# 11). Processing for performing such data correction processing is also performed in the server system 1, and the corrected result is returned as HTML data and displayed on the customer's personal computer screen. As a result, order data, image data, and print request data are stored (# 12).

<Print processing procedure>
Next, a procedure for accessing the server system 1 to download order data and performing print processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  First, the photo processing system 3 accesses the server system 1 and downloads order data and the like (# 20, 21). The downloaded order data, image data, and print request data are stored in the order data storage unit 43, the image data storage unit 44, and the request data storage unit 45, respectively (# 22).

  Next, the downloaded image is displayed on the monitor screen 51 (# 23). A configuration example of this display screen (order management screen) is shown in FIG. A thumbnail image for six frames is displayed on one screen, and downloaded print request data is also displayed in an area 62 below the image. The thumbnail image is generated by either the server system 1 or the photo processing system 3. When one of the displayed thumbnail images is clicked, the original image data linked to it is read and the original image is displayed. This is shown in FIG.

  This original image is displayed in a separate window. The pre-judge work is performed in another window in which the original image is displayed (# 24). Further, as can be seen from FIG. 5, when performing pre-judgement, it can be performed while looking at the print request data, so that image processing (image correction) reflecting the customer's request can be performed. In addition to image processing for customer requests, other image processing and pre-judgement are also performed. An operation area 71 for inputting correction data is also provided. When pre-judgement is completed for all images, the printing process is started (# 25, 26). This can be done by clicking a predetermined button on the screen. Note that the size of the window for displaying the original image can be determined as appropriate, but is automatically set so that the size and the display position are such that the print request data can be confirmed.

  Next, image data is read out from the image data storage unit 44 to perform print processing, image data for printing is generated by the image processing board 56, and the data is transferred to the exposure engine (# 27). The exposure engine exposes the image on the paper (# 28), and the printed paper is subjected to development processing and drying processing, and the finished photographic print is discharged to the outside of the apparatus (# 29, 30). .

  On the other hand, a comment input column 63 for inputting comment data is provided at the bottom of the screen shown in FIG. 5, and the operator inputs a comment in this column (# 31). After the input, by clicking the send button 64, the e-mail software is started, and the e-mail is sent to the address designated by the requester with the comment (# 32). The customer who receives the e-mail can confirm whether the request is reflected from the content of the comment.

  Further, corrected image data is generated using the correction data stored in the correction data storage unit 53 and the original image data (# 33). The corrected image data is transmitted to the server system 1 and stored in the image data storage unit (# 34). The customer can check the corrected image on the personal computer screen by accessing the server system 1. As a result, the customer can determine whether the request is reflected by viewing the image.

<Another embodiment of the pre-judge screen>
Next, another embodiment of the pre-judge screen will be described with reference to FIG. In this figure, the order management screen and the pre-judge screen are integrated. The operator can confirm the contents of the order on this screen and can also perform pre-judge work. An operation area 65 for inputting correction data is also provided. Similarly to FIG. 5, the image processing operation can be performed while confirming the print request data, and a field for inputting comment data after the print processing is completed is also provided.

<Another embodiment>
Instead of entering and sending comment data, the comment data may be printed in the same way as a photographic print and provided to the customer along with other photographic prints.

  The number of the photographic processing devices 31 constituting the photographic processing system 3 may not be one, but may be configured by a plurality of units and connected by a network.

  In the present embodiment, the function of the order data generation means is provided in the server system 1, but this may be provided in the personal computer 2 of the customer (client system). A computer program for generating order data can be downloaded from the server system 1 and installed as appropriate. In this case, the order data is not stored in the server system 1 but can be stored in the customer's personal computer 2. However, the image data of the server system 1 and identification information for associating it with the order data are given, and this identification information is stored in the server system 1. Then, the order data is transferred from the customer's personal computer 2 together with the identification information to the photo processing system 3 on the photo shop side by another route. Thereby, the photo shop side can acquire image data and order data (including request data). The order data may be generated by the customer's personal computer 2 and the order data may be stored by the server system 1.

  Although the present embodiment has been described as a print order receiving system for creating a photo print, it is possible to perform not only photo print but also image data writing processing on a CD-R. Therefore, the print order receiving system may include a CD-R writing device in addition to the photo processing device, and it can be considered as a print order including such writing processing. The CD-R writing apparatus may be an apparatus independent of the photographic processing apparatus or may be an apparatus incorporated in the photographic processing apparatus.

  In the present embodiment, means for providing an input screen for inputting print request data relating to print processing is provided in the server system 1 and is provided in the form of a Web page. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and means for providing such an input screen to the customer's personal computer 2 may be provided. Software for that purpose can be installed in the personal computer 2. Such software may be downloaded from the server system 1 and installed.

Schematic diagram showing the configuration of the photo print ordering system Functional block diagram showing the configuration of the server system Functional block diagram showing the configuration of the photo processing system Diagram showing an example of the screen structure of the order management screen The figure which shows the state which selected the thumbnail image of the upper right in FIG. The figure which shows the example of the screen composition which combines the order management screen and the pre-judge screen Flow chart showing the procedure for ordering prints online Diagram showing an example of the configuration of an online album The figure which shows the example of screen composition for making print order Flow chart showing print processing procedure

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Server system 2 Personal computer 3 Photo processing system 18 Order data generation means 18a Print request input means 19 Order data storage part 20 Image data storage part 21 Request data storage part 23 Thumbnail image generation means 41 Order reception part (order data acquisition means)
43 Order Data Storage Unit 44 Image Data Storage Unit 45 Request Data Storage Unit 50 Image Processing Software 50a Display Control Unit 50b Prejudge Screen Provision Unit 50c Order Screen Provision Unit 50d Thumbnail Image Generation Unit 50e Link Unit 50f Original Image Display Unit 51 Monitor 52 E-mail software 53 Correction data storage unit 54 Correction image data generation means 55 Print control unit 56 Image processing board (image processing hardware)

Claims (12)

A photo print ordering system is composed of a server system installed on the network, a client system that accesses the server system, and a photo processing system on the photo shop side. The photo print ordering system is uploaded to the server system. An image data storage unit that stores the image data, an order data generation unit that generates order data for requesting print processing for the stored image data, and an order data storage unit that stores the order data A photo print ordering system comprising:
Means for providing an input screen for inputting print request data relating to print processing;
Means for storing input print request data in association with image data related to print processing;
The photo processing system provided on the photo shop side
Order data acquisition means for downloading and acquiring order data stored in the order data storage unit and image data and print request data relating to the print order;
A photo print ordering system comprising display control means for displaying downloaded image data and print request data on the same screen. A server system constituting the photo print ordering system according to claim 1,
An image data storage unit for storing uploaded image data;
A server system comprising: means for storing input print request data in association with image data relating to print processing.   3. The server system according to claim 2, further comprising thumbnail image generation means for generating thumbnail image data to be displayed on the same screen as the print request data from the image data related to the order. A server system constituting the photo print ordering system according to claim 1,
An image data storage unit for storing uploaded image data;
Order data generating means for generating order data for requesting print processing for the stored image data;
An order data storage unit for storing this order data so that it can be downloaded from the photo shop side,
Means for providing an input screen for inputting print request data relating to print processing;
Means for storing the input print request data in association with the order data;
A server system comprising: thumbnail image generation means for generating thumbnail image data to be displayed on the same screen as print request data from image data relating to an order. A photo processing system for constituting the photo print ordering system according to claim 1,
Order data acquisition means for downloading and acquiring order data stored in the order data storage unit and image data and print request data relating to the print order;
A photo processing system comprising display control means for displaying downloaded image data and print request data on the same screen. The downloaded image data includes at least thumbnail image data generated by the server system,
6. The photo processing system according to claim 5, wherein the display control means displays the thumbnail image data and the print request data on the same screen. A thumbnail image generating means for generating thumbnail image data from the downloaded image data;
6. The photo processing system according to claim 5, wherein the display control means displays the thumbnail image data and the print request data on the same screen.   8. The apparatus according to claim 5, further comprising means for linking a thumbnail image displayed on the screen with the original image data, wherein the original image is displayed on the screen by an operation of selecting the thumbnail image. The photo processing system described in 1. Means for displaying an input field for inputting comment data of a print processing result on a screen for displaying thumbnail image data and print request data;
9. The photo processing system according to claim 5, further comprising reply means for replying the input comment data to the order requester.   10. The photographic processing system according to claim 8, further comprising image processing means for enabling image processing work on the original image on a screen on which the original image is displayed.   10. The photo processing according to claim 5, further comprising image processing means for enabling image processing work using a screen for displaying thumbnail image data and print request data. system.   12. The photo processing according to claim 5, further comprising means for transmitting the corrected image data corrected based on the print request data to the server system and storing the corrected image data in the server system. system.

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