JP2006115301A - Image forming system and image forming apparatus used therefor - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image processing apparatus transferring a template between a plurality of image processing apparatuses or between image processing terminals, inserting a main image into a template image to create a composite image, and checking whether it can handle a license for font, symbol or image transfer. <P>SOLUTION: The image processing apparatus 1 is provided with an image input unit 7 and an image processing unit 10, and is connected to one or a plurality of other image processing apparatuses 1 or image processing terminals 2. The apparatus 1 is provided with a template information storage means 43 and a template specifying means 41. The apparatus 1 has a function of judging the propriety of usage of the template information, displaying a signal indicating that effect if the information cannot be used, and using the image data and the template image data if it can be used to perform predetermined image processing including creation of a composite image. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming system for connecting to a plurality of image processing apparatuses or image processing terminals and performing image processing on input image data, and an image processing apparatus used therefor.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there is known an image forming system that performs appropriate image processing on input image data by an image processing apparatus and forms an image based on the data obtained as a result. According to such a system, for example, image data recorded on a recording medium such as a CD-R is read and corrected to an appropriate color and density by the function of the image processing apparatus, and the corrected image is used as a photographic photosensitive material. It is possible to create a photographic print by printing or to record image data on a recording medium.

  In recent years, an image (main image) on which a subject such as a person or background is formed is combined with a template image with a design frame, logo mark, character, etc. Service to be done is done.

  Specifically, an image output system as shown in FIG. 6 has been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 1). The number of images necessary for creating the album is taken, and the image data S0 representing this image and the accompanying information H representing the shooting date and time of the image data S0 are recorded in association with each other. The data reading unit 121 reads the image data S0 and the incidental information H, and the template T used for creating the album is read from the template storage unit 122. Images can be inserted in each image insertion area of the template in accordance with the shooting order. By referring to the auxiliary information H, an image is inserted in each image insertion area in accordance with the shooting order to generate composite image data M. To do. The composite image data M is output as an album print by the printer 113.

  In addition, a system that performs image processing by transferring such image data between devices has also been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 2). That is, as shown in FIG. 7, re-save determination information F that disappears when re-save in the image data S is given and recorded on the medium M. In the user terminal 211, the image data S is read from the medium M, and if necessary, the image data S is resaved by being combined with a template, image processing, and the like. The re-save determination information F disappears due to the re-save. When ordering a print, the image data S is transmitted to the photo shop 2, and the determination unit 223A determines the presence / absence of re-save determination information F of the image data S. When the re-save determination information F is given, the image data S is not re-save, so image processing for correcting the color and contrast is performed and printed out. When the re-save determination information F is not given, since the user 1 has made a change, the print output is performed without performing image processing for correcting the color and contrast.

  However, in an image forming system in which a template is transferred between a plurality of terminals, even if the template is image data in the same format, a specific font or symbol included in the template is displayed on a specific terminal. It is possible that it is not possible to cope with this at all. That is, a part of the display may be missing or so-called garbled characters may occur.

In addition, some images used for templates require a license in advance according to a predetermined procedure, and a specific terminal has not received a license, the protection function is activated, and the entire template is not displayed or is not displayed. Missing parts may occur.
JP 2002-10068 A JP 2003-283966 A

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and the problem is that a template is transferred between a plurality of image processing apparatuses or image processing terminals, and the main image is inserted into the template image in each image processing apparatus or image processing terminal. An image forming system capable of generating a composite image by combining and confirming whether or not a license of font, symbol, or image transfer is possible in the specifications of each image processing apparatus or image processing terminal, and the image forming system An image processing apparatus is provided.

The present invention includes an image input unit to which image data is input, an image processing unit having a function of performing image processing on the input image data, and one or more image processing apparatuses or image processing terminals. In an image forming system,
Template information storage means for storing a plurality of template image data and information of elements constituting the template image;
When the image processing unit performs image processing on the composite image data related to the composite image, the template image data related to the template image constituting the composite image is specified by the operation of the image processing terminal or the image processing terminal. A template specifying means,
In the image processing apparatus or the image processing terminal, whether or not the specified template image data or the elements constituting the template image can be used is determined, and if it cannot be used, a signal to that effect is displayed and used. In some cases, the image data and the template image data are used to perform predetermined image processing including creation of a composite image.

  As described above, in an image processing apparatus, when a composite image is created by combining a main image with a template image in a plurality of image processing apparatuses or image processing terminals, not only image data but also elements constituting a template image It is necessary to make a judgment based on the information. The present invention can perform appropriate and functional image processing by storing, specifying, and determining such information in association with template image data. Information used to create a template image (hereinafter referred to as “template information”) includes “template image data” and “information on elements constituting the template image” such as license information, font information, or symbol notation information. .

  In addition, the present invention can be understood not only as a combination of a specific image processing apparatus and another image processing apparatus or image processing terminal, but also as a single image forming system. In other words, the function of the present invention is not limited to centralized image processing based on one image input unit and image processing unit, but also performs image processing in a plurality of image processing devices or image processing terminals, and each image processing device. Alternatively, it is possible to perform distributed image processing in which information is exchanged by communication between image processing terminals. Therefore, the entire system can hold and manage the latest template information and perform appropriate and functional image processing.

The present invention is the above-described image forming system, in which a plurality of image processing apparatuses or a part of image processing terminals are connected to each other via the image processing unit or one or more template image data and the template. In an image forming system having a function of storing information on elements constituting an image,
The other image processing device or image processing terminal that has received the request signal for template image data from one image processing device or image processing terminal obtains information on the template image data and the elements constituting the template image, It has a function of transmitting to an image processing apparatus or an image processing terminal.

  In an image forming system, a specific template image is often used in a specific image processing apparatus or image processing terminal. Therefore, the predetermined template information is stored in each image processing apparatus or image processing terminal, and it is possible to respond to requests from other image processing apparatuses or image processing terminals by raising the flag of the stored information. It becomes. By distributing information and transferring information between the image processing apparatus or the image processing terminal, necessary information can be quickly obtained and appropriate and quick image processing can be performed.

The present invention relates to the above-described image processing system, wherein area specifying data for specifying a net main image area excluding a template image area from a combined image obtained by combining a main image with a template image relates to the template image. Area specifying data storage means for storing the template image data in association with the template image data;
Area specifying data acquisition means for acquiring area specifying data associated with the template image data specified by the template specifying means from the area specifying data storage means;
Area specifying means for specifying a net main image area of the composite image based on the area specifying data acquired by the area specifying data acquiring means,
In the image processing apparatus or the image processing terminal, it is determined whether or not the template image data or the elements constituting the template image can be used, and if it cannot be used, a signal indicating that is displayed and if it can be used It has a function of performing predetermined image processing including creation of a composite image only on the net main image area specified by the area specifying means.

  In creating a composite image, it is necessary to avoid duplication or omission of data related to a plurality of images to be combined, and means for specifying a data area plays an important role. The present invention stores and uses data that is the basis of image composition by associating area specifying data of the net main image area obtained by excluding data of a specified template image area from input image data and template image data. By doing so, it is possible to easily identify the region to be synthesized, and to greatly improve the working efficiency.

  The present invention is the above-described image processing system, wherein the information of the elements constituting the template image is information on whether or not a license is required for use of the template image, or license information when a license is required It is characterized by being.

  As described above, a template image without a license cannot be used. Therefore, the license information about the template image requested from each terminal is very important for image processing, and it is necessary to manage it as one of the latest and always available information in the image processing apparatus or each terminal. is there. The image processing system according to the present invention stores and manages information indicating whether such a license is required or license information as the latest template information.

  The present invention is the image processing system described above, wherein the information of the elements constituting the template image is character font information or symbol notation information used in the template image.

  Similar to the license described above, the font information of characters used in the template image or the notation information of symbols plays an important role in image formation, and is an important element subject to usage restrictions depending on the model and specifications of the terminal. The image processing system according to the present invention stores and manages such font information or symbol notation information as the latest template information.

The present invention includes an image input unit to which image data is input and an image processing unit having a function of performing image processing on the input image data, and one or a plurality of other image processing apparatuses or image processing terminals. In an image processing apparatus connected to
Template information storage means for storing a plurality of template image data and information of elements constituting the template image;
When the image processing unit performs image processing on the composite image data related to the composite image, template specifying means for specifying the template image data related to the template image constituting the composite image, and
It has a function of transmitting template image data and information of elements constituting the template image in response to a request signal for template image data from the other image processing apparatus or image processing terminal.

  As described above, in an image processing apparatus, when a composite image is created by fitting a main image into a template image, it is necessary to make a determination based on not only image data but also information on elements constituting the template image. The present invention stores and specifies such information in correspondence with template image data, and performs appropriate and functional image processing by creating a composite image. The image processing device is used as a starting point for other image processing devices or By performing transmission / reception with the image processing terminal, image data can be functionally created, and image processing based on this can be appropriately performed in the image processing apparatus.

  The present invention is the above-described image processing apparatus, wherein the information from the image processing apparatus or the image processing terminal including the request signal, the template image data, and the determination information on whether or not to use the elements constituting the template image is received and received. It has terminal information storage means for storing.

  Since a plurality of image processing apparatuses or image processing terminals connected to the image processing apparatus usually have different usage frequencies and terminal types / specifications, it may be preferable to collectively manage template information. That is, the latest information is preferable for the presence / absence of a license necessary for using the template, and it is not preferable that the information cannot be used on another terminal even if the information is stored in a terminal that is not used. Therefore, by providing a means for storing such latest terminal information, it is possible to respond quickly and up to date. In addition, by accessing from each terminal, such latest information can be taken in as terminal information, and the latest information can be used.

  The present invention is the above-described image processing apparatus, which receives the request signal, the template image, and useability determination information relating to the elements constituting the template image, and displays the received information on the image processing apparatus or image processing terminal related to the reception. It has a display control means for transmitting information.

  The request from the image processing apparatus or the image processing terminal requires an arbitrary template at an arbitrary time. Accordingly, it is necessary to maintain and manage the information so that the latest information can be supplied at all times, and it is preferable to enable appropriate judgment display to confirm the suitability of judgment at each terminal. Since the image processing apparatus according to the present invention has such display control means, the latest information required in each terminal can be made available when triggered by access from each terminal.

  As described above, according to the present invention, a template is transferred from an image processing apparatus as a base point or between a plurality of image processing apparatuses or image processing terminals, and a composite image is appropriately combined by combining the main image with the template image at each terminal. An image forming system that can be created functionally and that can confirm whether or not it is possible to support licenses for image transfer or font or symbol notation in the specifications of each image processing apparatus or image processing terminal. An image processing apparatus can be provided.

  A preferred embodiment of an image forming system and an image processing apparatus used therefor according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an image forming system.

<Configuration of image forming system>
In FIG. 1, in an image forming system, an image processing apparatus 1 and another image processing apparatus 1 or an image processing terminal 2 are connected by a network 3. The number of image processing apparatuses 1 connected to the network 3 is one or more, and the number of connected image processing apparatuses 1 can be arbitrarily set. Similarly, the number of image processing terminals 2 connected to the network 3 is one or more, and the number of connected terminals can be arbitrarily set. The plurality of image processing terminals 2 can be connected not only when they are connected to each other via a network but also via the image processing apparatus 1. The network 3 is constructed by, for example, an Ethernet (registered trademark) LAN, but may be connected by a network 3 other than the Ethernet (registered trademark). The network 3 is configured to be connectable to the server 5 via the Internet 4.

  The image forming system constructed by the image processing device 1 and the image processing terminal 2 is installed in a photo shop as a photo processing device, for example. The image processing apparatus 1 and the image processing terminal 2 do not need to be installed on the same floor, and can be installed on a plurality of floors. Further, a part of the image processing apparatus 1 or the image processing terminal 2 may be installed at a distance away.

Next, functions of the image processing apparatus 1 will be described using a photo processing apparatus as a representative example.
Based on the input image data, the image processing apparatus 1 can print and expose an image on the emulsion surface of paper (photosensitive material) to create a photographic print. The input image data is not used immediately for image exposure, but after various image processing such as composition with a template image and image correction is performed, image data for exposure is generated, and this exposure is performed. The image data on the paper is subjected to printing exposure.

  The image data input to the image processing apparatus 1 may be input directly to the image processing apparatus 1 or input via the network 3. The latter image data includes composite image data created in another image processing apparatus 1 or image processing terminal 2. As template information processed in the image processing apparatus 1, information stored in the image processing apparatus 1, and stored in another image processing apparatus 1 or the image processing terminal 2 and input to the image processing apparatus 1 via the network 3. There is something.

  In the image processing, the image data is subjected to predetermined processing such as image correction described later, and the combined image data synthesized from the image data and template image data constituting the template information is further subjected to predetermined processing such as image correction. May be performed.

  In the image processing apparatus 1 according to the present invention, the first print mode and the second print mode can be selectively set when creating a photographic print.

  In the first print mode, photo processing is executed based on image processing data that has been subjected to image processing in the image processing apparatus 1. A typical example is a process of reading a frame image of a developed photographic film by the scanner device 6 and creating a photographic print using the acquired image data. In this case, the photo processing can be executed by the image processing apparatus 1 alone regardless of the connection state with the network 3.

  On the other hand, in the second print mode, photo processing is executed based on image data (image processing data) transmitted from another image processing apparatus 1 or image processing terminal 2 connected to the network 3 via the network 3. To do. As in the case of the first print mode, exposure image data is generated based on this image data, and a photo print is created.

  Next, functions of the image processing terminal 2 will be briefly described. The image processing terminal 2 can be configured by, for example, a general-purpose personal computer system. Similar to the image processing apparatus 1, the image processing terminal 2 is also provided with an image processing unit for performing image processing, and image data handled by the image processing terminal 2 is stored on a digital camera storage medium (smart media (registered trademark), Image data stored in a recording medium such as a compact flash (registered trademark), memory stick (registered trademark), CD-R, MO, etc., and a drive device (image input unit) for acquiring image data from these media ) Is provided. Further, the image processing terminal 2 itself can store some template image data and create a composite image with the image data, and can be input via the network 3 based on the input image data. It is possible to create synthesized image data synthesized with the template information.

  When the image data input from the image processing terminal 2 is transmitted to the image processing device 1, the image processing unit in the image processing terminal 2 performs image processing, and the obtained image processing data is transmitted. Similarly, when a composite image with the template image is created, the composite image data can be transmitted to the image processing apparatus 1. Further, when using template information stored in the image processing apparatus 1, it is possible to transmit region specifying data of a main image described later without transmitting template image data. Note that it is also possible to transmit only template image data stored in the image processing terminal 2 based on a request from the image processing apparatus 1 or another image processing terminal 2.

  The image forming system according to the present invention is configured to be connectable to a server 5 via the Internet 4, and the server 5 can receive a print order from a general user online. That is, the user uploads to the server 5 image data for which a photographic print is desired using his / her personal computer. In the photo shop, the image data uploaded to the server 5 can be downloaded at an appropriate timing to create a photo print. The server 5 also has a function of providing an online album to the user. Note that the downloaded image data is stored in the image processing terminal 2, for example.

<Functional block configuration of image forming system>
Next, main functions of the image forming system will be described by dividing them into a functional block configuration of the image processing apparatus and a functional block configuration of the image processing terminal, respectively, using the block diagrams of FIGS.

<Functional Block Configuration of Image Processing Device>
First, main functions of the image processing apparatus 1 will be described with reference to FIG. Here, a case where the image processing apparatus 1 has a function of creating a composite image using template data in response to a request from another image processing apparatus 1 or the image processing terminal 2 is illustrated.

  Image data from the scanner device 6, the image input device 7 a, or the network 3 is input to the image input unit 7. The scanner device 6 is a device for acquiring image data from a frame image formed on a developed photographic film. Although not shown, a light source for reading image data, a CCD line sensor, and the like are provided. Image data can also be obtained from a medium other than photographic film, and an image input device 7a for that purpose is provided. The image input device 7a can acquire image data stored in a storage medium of a digital camera or a recording medium such as a CD-R or MO. Further, image data and template image data from another image processing apparatus 1 or image processing terminal 2 are input via the network 3 and the data communication unit 36 and can be used in the image processing apparatus 1.

  In addition, the image input unit 7 combines not only image data relating to an image (hereinafter, referred to as a main image) on which a subject such as a person or a background is formed, but also a combination of various template images. In some cases, image data (synthesized image data) related to an image is input. The template image is an image in which a predetermined design frame, logo mark, character, or the like is drawn. For example, the main image is inserted into a template image for a calendar or New Year's card, and can be created as a photographic print. An example of a main image, a template image, and a composite image is shown in FIGS. 3A (a) to 3 (c). As described above, the composite image 53 is formed by fitting the main image 51 into the template image 52 and combining them.

  The image data acquired via the scanner device 6 or the image input device 7a is temporarily stored and held in the image data storage means 8. Also, image data input via the network 3 can be handled in the same manner. Note that the image processing apparatus 1 may not have the function of the image input apparatus 7a. This is because the image processing terminal 2 can have the same function.

  The image data storage unit 8 and the template information storage unit 43 constitute a data storage unit 18 to store image data from the scanner device 6 or the image input device 7a, and to the other image processing device 1 or image processing terminal 2. Image data transmitted from the Internet or image data transmitted from the Internet. These data are managed by numbers unique to the image data created based on the date and input order.

  In the template information storage means 43, various template image data and information of elements constituting the template image such as license information, font information or symbol notation information are classified for each item, organized and stored. If there is an instruction from the template specifying means 41 according to a request from the operator, it is displayed on the monitor 15 via the GUI 11. If there is a request from another image processing apparatus 1 or image processing terminal 2, it is transmitted via the data communication unit 36.

  Further, it is preferable that the template information is distributed and stored in the template information storage means 43 of each image processing apparatus 1 or image processing terminal 2 and distributed management that enables individual information to be used. Usually, it is sufficient that a specific type of template information that is frequently used is stored in a specific image processing apparatus 1 or image processing terminal 2, and template information that is less frequently used is stored in all the image processing apparatuses 1 or The image processing terminal 2 has a large storage capacity load and is inefficient, which makes it complicated to manage the latest information. On the other hand, it is often necessary to use the template information owned by the entire system, and it is preferable to be able to use the template information according to a request from any one of the image processing apparatus 1 or the image processing terminal 2. is there.

  The first image processing unit 10 has a function of performing image processing on image data, and is configured by software. The first image processing unit 10 includes a display control unit (GUI) 11, an image processing unit 12, a hardware control unit 13, a template specifying unit 41, and a terminal information storage unit 42. The GUI 11 is a graphical user interface, and can perform data input operations related to image processing through a monitor screen.

  An example of the screen configuration when performing image processing is shown in FIG. 3B. Here, four of the read images are displayed on the monitor screen. The number of images to be displayed on the monitor screen is not limited to four, but can be set as appropriate, for example, six or eight. The operator can make a prototype of the combined photographic print by selecting an appropriate template image while viewing the monitor screen.

  On this monitor screen, the reference numeral 54 shows a display of image data acquired from a photographic film or the like, or composite image data obtained by synthesizing a template image.

  Reference numeral 55 denotes a data display area, which displays an average density value, a frame number, and the number of prints of an image. Another display area 56 is provided at the upper right of the display image 55, and correction data input from the keyboard 16 for each color of Y (yellow), M (magenta), and C (cyan) and density correction data are also provided. Is displayed. Further, information related to the print size is displayed in a display area 57 below the display image 54. For example, “P” indicates a panorama size. A display area 58 shows the name of the print channel. The print channel will be described later.

  The operator looks at the monitor screen as shown in FIG. 3B and reads the template image using the keyboard 16 for an image that is determined to be selected, changed or added. At this time, the template images are displayed in a predetermined order on the monitor screen. Alternatively, a predetermined division display is displayed, and a plurality of template images are displayed in a predetermined order by the operator's selection. When the operator specifies the template image, the template specifying unit 41 operates, and an image obtained by combining the template image data with the image data read from the template information storage unit 43 is displayed on the same monitor screen in real time. Therefore, the operator can appropriately perform image processing while visually confirming the composite image.

  At this time, if a license is required for use of the template image, it is preferably written so that the image processing operation cannot be performed without confirmation input by the operator. By selecting different template images by the operator, an appropriate composite image can be created.

  In addition, when there is character display or symbol notation in the template image and the font or symbol notation format is not compatible, it is preferable to indicate a character part or symbol part in which some missing or garbled characters appear. For example, the character part or the symbol part can be flushed or enlarged. An appropriate composite image can be created by changing the character display or symbol notation in whole or in part.

  The image processing means 12 also has a template image processing function, and an image obtained as a result of image processing based on the template image data selected and confirmed from the keyboard 16 is displayed again on the monitor screen. The input of the template image data is performed to some extent by trial and error, and the finally determined template image data is temporarily stored in the template information storage unit 43. The template image data is data in a form attached to each image data.

  The operator inputs correction data using the keyboard 16 for an image that is determined to be corrected for color and density by looking at the monitor screen. When correction data is input, an image corrected based on the input correction data is displayed in real time on the same monitor screen. Therefore, the operator can appropriately perform image processing while visually confirming the corrected image.

  The correction data includes not only those relating to color / density correction but also correction parameters relating to special corrections such as red-eye correction, backlight correction, and gradation correction. Also, the number of prints can be corrected and input on the monitor screen shown in FIG. 3B, and the data on the number of prints is also included in the correction data.

  The size of the image displayed on the monitor screen is different from the size of the input image data, and usually a thumbnail image with a reduced size is displayed on the screen. The processing for generating the thumbnail image data is also a function of the image processing means 12, and the image processing performed while looking at the monitor screen is also performed based on the thumbnail image data.

  The hardware control means 13 is a function that controls the image processing board 20 that is hardware. The image processing data obtained as a result of the image processing in the first image processing unit 10 is transmitted to the image processing board 20 to create exposure image data. Here, the image processing data is composed of at least image data and template image data. As the image data, the image data acquired from the scanner device 6 or the image input device 7a is transmitted to the image processing board 20 as it is. be able to.

  Further, when transmitting in response to a request from another image processing apparatus 1 or image processing terminal 2, the image processing data is transmitted to the network 3 via the data communication unit 36 (one of the functions of the hardware control means 13). be able to). The image processing data is transmitted to the image processing terminal 2 via the network 3 and displayed / stored in the image processing terminal 2.

  When image processing is performed by the first image processing unit 10, it may be immediately sent to the image processing substrate 20 for print processing, but it may be performed later at an appropriate time zone. Therefore, the order data storage unit 9 is configured to store data. The concept of order can be set as appropriate at a photo shop. For example, one photographic film and one recording medium can be handled as one order. The order data storage unit 9 stores image data, template image data, and correction data. These data are assigned an order ID and managed in order units.

  In addition, even when image processing is performed by the first image processing unit 10 and print processing is performed immediately, data is stored in the order data storage unit 9. This is preferably stored as order data because a reprinting process or a reprinting process may be performed even if the printing process is performed once. If image data and template image data or correction data are stored in association with each other, it is not necessary to repeat the same image processing when performing reprinting processing, etc., and the results of image processing correspond to image data. Since it is left as the attached template image data or correction data, it can be used again. The reprint process is a process in which the print process is performed again at the discretion of the operator when the quality of the finished photo print is not good, and the reprint process (reorder process) is performed in response to a request from the customer. This means the same print creation process. Therefore, the image data, the template image data, and the correction data are not deleted even when the print processing is performed, but the data is stored and stored in the order data storage unit 9 as described above.

  In addition, when performing image processing and print processing in the first image processing unit 10, it is necessary to set various setting data in advance. The setting data is stored in the setting data file storage unit 14. As setting data, for example, data relating to a print channel can be mentioned. A print channel registers the type of paper used to create a photo print (surface quality, manufacturer, etc.), print size, image data source (data from a digital camera or negative film, etc.), etc. It is a thing. Therefore, if you want to create a photo print of a specific print size based on image data obtained from a digital camera, you need to select a print channel that is suitable for it, and for that purpose such a print channel Must be set in advance.

  Other setting data includes the amount of change per key operation when correction data is input from the keyboard during image processing operations. For example, when a specific key on the keyboard is pressed once, the Y color can be set to change by “+1.5” when it changes by “+1”.

  The template specifying unit 41 has a function of accessing the template information storage unit 43 and specifying the requested template information when there is a request for a template image from an operator or another image processing apparatus 1 or image processing terminal 2. Have. Further, it has a function of confirming the template image based on the operator's instruction to confirm the template image after determining whether or not the template image can be used. At the same time, the template information is transmitted to the image processing apparatus 1 or the image processing terminal 2 other than the requested apparatus or terminal, and the use of the template information is ensured as the entire image forming system. The template image may be specified automatically based on incidental information attached to the input composite image data. Examples of such incidental information include header data. Further, when the operator can determine the template image by looking at the composite image displayed on the monitor screen, the template image data may be specified by inputting a number for specifying the template image.

  The terminal information storage means 42 has a function of classifying, organizing and storing template information stored in the other image processing apparatus 1 or the image processing terminal 2. When used in either the image processing apparatus 1 or the image processing terminal 2 in the image forming system, it is preferable that the latest template information can be updated.

  Next, the image processing substrate 20 will be described. The image processing board 20 is provided with a reception memory 21, an image processing means 22, a transmission memory 23, and firmware 24. The image processing board 20 has a function of generating image data that is actually used for exposure. The reception memory 21 receives the transmitted composite image data and correction data. Unlike the image processing unit 12 of the first image processing unit 10, the image processing unit 22 is based on hardware. Based on the correction data, the processing content by the firmware 24 can be set, and based on this, processing for generating exposure image data is performed. As described above, since the image processing board 20 is configured with hardware as a core, image processing by the image processing board 20 is performed at high speed.

  The image processing performed in the image processing means 22 not only generates corrected image data having a color / density corrected based on the correction data, but also becomes data having the same size as the print size to be created. Enlargement processing or rotation processing that converts the image's height and width, special corrections such as red-eye correction and backlight correction that are performed as needed, color matching correction to match the color of the finished photo print with the color on the monitor screen, development Examples include corrections that take into account the type of processing liquid and changes over time. In addition, processing for expanding image data in a compressed file format such as JPEG into a bitmap is also performed. The exposure image data obtained as a result of processing by the image processing means 22 is sent to the transmission memory 23.

  The image processing data transmitted to the image processing board 20 includes those created inside the image processing apparatus 1 and those transmitted via the network 3. Therefore, the processing selection means 25 is provided, and image processing data from either one can be received. As described above, the image processing apparatus 1 can selectively set the first print mode and the second print mode. In the first print mode, image processing data generated inside the image processing apparatus is received, and the second print mode is received. In the print mode, image processing data from the network 3 is received and print processing is executed. Note that the process selection means 25 switches functions in terms of software, and is conceptually shown in FIG. The mode can be switched based on the function of the mode setting means 37 by displaying a mode setting screen on the monitor 15 and selecting one of the print modes.

  At this time, in order to receive the image processing data from the image processing terminal 2 and perform the printing process, the image processing apparatus 1 is basically set to the second print mode. However, even if the image processing apparatus 1 is set to the first print mode and a print processing request is made from the image processing terminal 2 side during the print processing in the first print mode, the print processing is not performed. If you can't do it, you can't respond quickly. If there is a considerable amount of orders to be printed on the image processing apparatus side, the image processing terminal 2 must wait until print processing is possible, and work efficiency decreases. In addition, there is a fear that it is impossible to provide a prompt service to a customer if it is not possible to cope with an urgent print process. Therefore, priority setting means (not shown) is provided so that it can be set in advance whether or not the print processing request from the image processing terminal 2 is preferentially performed. A large number of image processing terminals 2 may be connected to the network 3, and it is possible to set whether or not to permit interruption for each image processing terminal 2. Among the operators of the image processing terminal 2, there are beginners such as part-time workers and part-time clerk, and there are skilled workers. In consideration of such points, it is possible to make a setting so as not to permit interruption for a print processing request from the image processing terminal 2 operated by a beginner. Thereby, a safe and reliable printing process can be ensured.

  Next, the configuration of the printer processor unit of the image processing apparatus will be briefly described. In the paper magazine 30, a long paper, which is a photographic photosensitive material, is accommodated in a form wound on a roll. A plurality of paper magazines 30 can be attached to the image processing apparatus 1. Thereby, a plurality of types having different paper sizes can be prepared in advance. The paper drawn from the paper magazine 30 is configured to be conveyed along a predetermined conveyance path, and is cut into a predetermined print size by a paper cutter 31 provided along the conveyance path. The cut paper is conveyed to an exposure engine 32 (corresponding to an image exposure unit). The exposure engine 32 uses the exposure image data transferred from the transmission memory 23 of the image processing board 20 to expose and form an image on the emulsion surface of the paper. The exposure engine 32 forms a latent image by scanning the exposure light in the main scanning direction on the paper conveyed in the sub-scanning direction at a constant speed. As the exposure engine 32, those having various structures can be adopted. For example, a laser engine, a PLZT engine, a CRT engine, or the like can be adopted.

  The paper on which the image has been baked and exposed by the exposure engine 32 is sent to the development processing unit 33 and subjected to development processing, and then subjected to drying processing in the drying processing unit 34, and a finished photographic print is produced from the paper discharge unit 35. It is discharged outside. The discharged photographic prints are accumulated in an accumulation unit (not shown) in units of one order.

<Function for creating a composite image with a template image>
In the image processing described above, the function of the image processing apparatus 1 when creating a composite image from image data and template image data will be described with reference to FIG. 4 illustrating a flow corresponding to the operation of the operator.

(1) Image reading The operator operates the keyboard 16 to read an image. Specifically, the main image data stored in the image data storage unit 8 is read by the operation, and the main image 51 is displayed on the monitor 15. If it matches the main image 51 requested by the operator, a confirmation operation is performed, and the main image data is transmitted to the image processing means 12.

(2) Reading template image The operator operates the keyboard 16 to read the template image. Specifically, the template image 52 is displayed on the monitor 15 by the operation. Normally, a plurality of thumbnail images are displayed for one item, and a specific operation is performed if it matches the main image 51 requested by the operator. For example, in response to the input of the item “New Year's card”, various thumbnail images such as Kadomatsu, Sakai, and sunrise are prepared, and the operator selects one or more thumbnail images. The thumbnail image at this time is information presentation for selection, and since it does not require reading of the template information itself, it functions sufficiently by displaying it as a thumbnail image.

(3) Start of image editing The operator can start image editing by specifying the template image 52 by the operator. However, the following confirmation is required before editing.

(4) Confirmation of presence or absence of template information It is confirmed whether or not the template information is stored in the template information storage means 43 of the image processing apparatus 1 or the image processing terminal 2 operated by the operator. If there is template information, the process proceeds to the following step, and if not, the request is sent to another image processing apparatus 1 or image processing terminal 2. This is because, even if the template image 52 can be selected by the thumbnail image, it is necessary to obtain the template information in actual editing. As described above, the template information may be distributed and managed as an image forming system as well as the image processing apparatus 1 or the image processing terminal 2 operated by the operator. In this case, the template information corresponding to either the other image processing apparatus 1 or the image processing terminal 2 is stored, and the corresponding apparatus or terminal raises the flag of the stored information, so that the requested template information is stored. Can be confirmed.

(5) Template Information Acquisition Request Template information is read from the template information storage unit 43 by the template specifying unit 41. If there is no corresponding template information in the template information storage means 43 of the image processing apparatus 1 or the image processing terminal 2 that is being operated, the image processing apparatus 1 connected from the network 3 via the data communication unit 36. Alternatively, an acquisition request for the corresponding template information is transmitted to the image processing terminal 2. As a result, it is possible to read from the template information stored as the entire image forming system. Specifically, the template information is read from the template information storage means 73 (or 43) of the device or terminal that raised the flag.

(6) Confirmation of Template License As described above, a predetermined license may be required when using the template image 52, and is managed as template information in the image forming system according to the present invention. Therefore, the presence or absence of a license for the identified template image 52 is confirmed. Specifically, the template specifying unit 41 confirms the read template information. If there is no license, a message to that effect is sent to the GUI 11 and displayed on the monitor 15. The operator needs to select another template image or obtain a license. If a license is available, proceed to the next step.

(7) Reply of template information When it is confirmed that the template image 52 can be used, the template image data specified by the template specifying means 41 is the image processing means of the image processing apparatus 1 or the image processing terminal 2 that is operating. 12 and displayed on the monitor 15.

(8) Confirmation of template image data When the template image 52 displayed on the monitor 15 matches the required specification, it is confirmed by the operation of the keyboard 16 of the operator, and the template specifying means 41 sends the template to the image processing means 12. Image data is transmitted. On the other hand, as described above, depending on the specifications of the image processing apparatus 1 or the image processing terminal 2, image information included in the template image or information on characters and symbols may be partially lost or garbled. At this time, if the operator can correct, correction processing or use of a partial area is performed, and if not possible, a different template image is selected.

(9) Image editing operation The operator operates the keyboard 16 and, based on the determined template image 52 and the read main image 51, synthesizes the input image data into the template image data (template synthesis), A composite image 53 is created.

(10) Transmission of composite image When the composite image 53 is confirmed, composite image data is formed in the image processing means 12, stored in the image data storage means 8, and transmitted to the image processing board 20 to create a photographic print. . In the case of a request from another image processing apparatus 1 or image processing terminal 2, the composite image data is transmitted to the corresponding apparatus or terminal via the data communication unit 36. The template information at this time is stored in the terminal information storage means 42 in a form corresponding to the transmission destination, and the terminal information storage means 42 or 72 is connected in a connected state with another image processing apparatus 1 or image processing terminal 2. Remember it. Thereby, when the area specifying data corresponding to the template image data related to the template image is not stored in the template information storage unit 43, such as when the synthesized image 53 synthesized with the new template image 52 is handled. Can store area specifying data for specifying the net main image area of the composite image in association with the template image data.

<Other synthetic image creation methods>
In the above, the case where the composite image 53 shown in FIG. 3A is formed from the image data related to the main image 51 and the template image data related to the template image 52 has been described. However, the formed composite image 53 is accurately formed based on composite image data obtained by combining the image data excluding the overlapping area between the main image 51 and the template image 52 and the template image data. At this time, in creating the composite image 53, it is preferable to avoid duplication or omission of data regarding a plurality of images to be combined. In particular, when the composite image 53 is formed on the basis of image data and template image data transmitted / received between the image processing apparatus 1 and the image processing terminal 2 or between the image processing terminals 2, the data area is specified. Therefore, it is preferable to set the image data excluding the overlapping area between the main image 51 and the template image 52 to perform data communication. In the present invention, area specifying data (hereinafter referred to as “net main image data”) for specifying a net main image area obtained by excluding the area of the template image 52 from the composite image 53 is combined with the template image data. Image processing such as creation / correction of the composite image 53 is performed.

  Specifically, an area specifying data storage means (not shown) for storing the template image data in association with the area, and an area specifying data acquisition means (not shown) for acquiring the net main image data from the area specifying data storage means. The net main image data is created by the area specifying means (not shown) for specifying the area of the net main image data, and the image processing means 12 performs the image processing. As a result, it is possible to easily identify the area to be synthesized, and to greatly improve the work efficiency. Further, when color / density correction or the like is performed on the composite image data, efficient correction can be performed by specifying and correcting the net main image area. Here, the net main image data can be constituted by coordinates for determining a reference, parameters for determining a width dimension, and a height dimension. Here, the area specifying data is not limited to data that directly specifies the net main image area. For example, it may be data that directly specifies the template image area. In such a case, the net main image area can be specified by excluding the template image area from the composite image.

  The area specifying data acquisition means has a function of acquiring area specifying data corresponding to the template image data specified by the template specifying means 41 from the area specifying data storage means. The area specifying unit has a function of specifying the net main image area based on the area specifying data acquired by the area specifying data acquiring unit.

  As described above, according to the image processing apparatus of the present invention, when predetermined image processing is performed on input composite image data, area specifying data corresponding to template image data is acquired from the area specifying data storage unit. Then, only the identified net main image area can be targeted for color / density correction.

  The area designating unit has a function of designating the net main image area of the composite image related to the input composite image data. The designation of the net main image area may be automatically performed based on the accompanying information such as header data attached to the input composite image data, and the operator looks at the composite image displayed on the monitor screen, It may be specified by tracing the outline of the net main image area with a pointer. Here, “designating the net main image area of the composite image” is not limited to directly designating the net main image area. For example, the net main image area may be indirectly specified by designating a template image area and excluding the designated template image area from the synthesized image.

<Functional block configuration of image processing terminal>
Next, main functions of the image processing terminal 2 when the image processing terminal 2 has an image processing function will be described with reference to the block diagram of FIG. Similar to the image processing apparatus 1, a second image processing unit 60 for performing image processing is provided. The second image processing unit 60 is configured by software, and includes a GUI 61, an image processing unit 62, a network control unit 63, a template specifying unit 71, and a module that functions as a terminal information storage unit 72. ing. Regarding the GUI 61, the image processing means 62, the template specifying means 71 and the terminal information storage means 72, the GUI 11 of the first image processing unit 10 of the image processing apparatus 1, the image processing means 12, the template specifying means 41 and the terminal information storage means 42. The image processing apparatus 1 and the other image processing terminals 2 that form the network, and the creation / composition of the composite image with the template image in its own terminal, the management / determination of the template information, and the template information storage / It has a function to perform management.

  The image processing apparatus 1 and the image processing terminal 2 use the same software except for the modules of the hardware control unit 13 and the network control unit 63. Image processing data obtained in the image processing terminal 2 can be transmitted to the image processing apparatus 1 via the network 3 based on the function of the network control means 63.

  Unlike image processing software that is generally commercially available, image processing software used in the image processing apparatus 1 has various functions necessary for photographic processing. In terms of usability, improvements have been made compared to general software. On the other hand, the image processing terminal 2 can be configured by a personal computer, and it is conceivable to install general image processing software. However, in this case, there are the following problems.

  If the image processing software is different between the image processing apparatus 1 and the image processing terminal 2, a plurality of types of software must be learned, and wasteful work increases. Photo shops often hire part-time workers and part-timers, and if there are many types of software, the training time for these store staff also increases, which wastes the work time that should be spent on the original photo processing. It will also be. Therefore, by making the software used in the image processing apparatus 1 and the image processing terminal 2 substantially the same, it is possible to eliminate unnecessary work of learning how to use the software. Therefore, the image processing operation in the image processing terminal 2 can be performed in exactly the same manner as in the image processing apparatus 1.

  A monitor 64 and a keyboard 65 are provided for performing image processing and other photographic processing operations. In addition, a setting data file is stored in the setting data file storage unit 66. Basically, this file is the same as the setting data file stored in the image processing apparatus 1. As a result, the image processing apparatus 1 and the image processing terminal 2 can perform operations such as image processing under the same conditions, and the image processing apparatus 1 and the image processing terminal 2 are the same regardless of whether the image processing is performed. Quality photo prints are obtained.

  The image input device 67a is a device for acquiring image data from a storage medium of a digital camera or other recording media. The image data input by the image input device 67a and the image data transmitted from the image processing device 1 or another image processing terminal 2 via the network 3 are temporarily stored in the image data storage means 68 via the image input unit 67. Is done. The image processing operation by the second image processing unit 60 is the same as that already described in the image processing apparatus 1, and the configuration example of the monitor screen can be the same as that in FIG. 3B.

  Further, the template information that the image processing terminal 2 has from the beginning or that has been conventionally used in the terminal 2 is stored in the template information storage unit 73 and is also stored in the image processing apparatus 1 or another image via the network 3. The image data transmitted from the processing terminal 2 can be stored in the template information storage unit 73 via the image input unit 67. The image data storage unit 68 and the template information storage unit 73 are the same as the image data storage unit 8 and the template information storage unit 43 in FIG. The image data storage unit 68 and the template information storage unit 73 are collectively defined as a data storage unit 74.

  A photo print is created from the image processing data obtained by the image processing by the second image processing unit 60. However, it is not necessary to immediately perform the print processing, and the data is stored and the print processing is performed later. You can also do it all together. For this purpose, an order data storage unit 70 is provided, in which order data can be stored. This is the same as the case of the order data storage unit 9 in FIG. That is, it is possible to easily cope with a re-baking process and a re-printing process.

  The image processing function in the image processing terminal 2 is only the second image processing unit 60 configured by software, and hardware (image processing board) as provided in the image processing apparatus 1 is not provided. Since the image processing board becomes expensive in terms of cost, it is not preferable to install it in a plurality of image processing terminals because the cost required for system construction increases considerably.

  In the image processing terminal 2, image processing work can be performed intensively regardless of the operation status in the image processing apparatus 1. While the image processing terminal 2 performs image processing, the image processing apparatus 1 can perform print processing separately from this, so that the processing efficiency of the entire image forming system is improved. Even if the image processing apparatus 1 is powered off, image processing can be performed only by the image processing terminal 2. For example, image processing can be performed collectively at night when the image processing apparatus 1 is not operating, order data can be accumulated, and print creation processing can be performed collectively the next morning, thereby improving work efficiency.

  If the image processing work can be performed only by the image processing apparatus 1, even if it is desired to perform the image processing, if another operator is using the image processing apparatus 1, the work cannot be performed. A long waiting time. According to the present invention, such a useless waiting time does not occur.

  When print processing is performed, the image processing data is sent to the network 3 via the image output unit 75 (function of the network control unit 63). The image processing data is transmitted to the image processing apparatus 1 via the network 3, and image data for exposure is generated on the image processing board 20 of the image processing apparatus 1, and a photo print is created based on this.

  The image data writing device 76 is a device for writing image data on a recording medium such as a CD-R or a DVD. In this case, the image data output from the image output unit 75 is transferred to the image data writing device 76. The data transferred to the image data writing device 76 is not the image data, the template image data, and the correction data, but the corrected composite image data corrected by the correction data with respect to the composite image data. The processing for generating the corrected composite image data is performed by software in the image processing terminal 2. The image data writing device 76 does not need to be provided in all of the plurality of image processing terminals 2 and may be provided only in a specific image processing terminal 2.

<Another embodiment>
(1) The image processing apparatus according to the present invention may not be an apparatus in which the image processing unit and the printer processor unit are integrated. For example, in FIG. 1, the scanner device 6 has a structure separated from the main body of the image processing apparatus. However, the image processing unit and the printer processor unit may be separated from each other in the same manner as this. When disconnected, it is connected by a communication line.
(2) The image processing terminal can be configured by a general-purpose computer (personal computer), but is not limited thereto, and may be configured by a computer specialized for a specific function.

Conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of an image forming system Block diagram explaining functions of image processing apparatus Explanatory drawing which shows an example of the main image, template image, and composite image which are image-processed Explanatory drawing which shows the example of screen composition which performs image processing Explanatory diagram illustrating the function when creating a composite image Block diagram explaining functions of image processing terminal Explanatory drawing which shows the structure of the image output system which concerns on a prior art Explanatory drawing which shows the structure of the image forming system which concerns on a prior art

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Image processing apparatus 2 Image processing terminal 3 Network 6 Scanner apparatus 7, 67 Image input part 7a, 67a Image input apparatus 8, 68 Image data storage means 10 1st image processing part 11, 61 Display control means (GUI)
12, 62 Image processing unit 13 Hardware control unit 15, 64 Monitor 16, 65 Keyboard 18, 74 Data storage unit 36 Data communication unit 41, 71 Template specifying unit 42, 72 Terminal information storage unit 43, 73 Template information storage unit 51 Main Image 52 Template image 53 Composite image 60 Second image processing unit 75 Image output unit

Claims (8)

In an image forming system including an image input unit to which image data is input, an image processing unit having a function of performing image processing on the input image data, and one or a plurality of image processing apparatuses or image processing terminals ,
Template information storage means for storing a plurality of template image data and information of elements constituting the template image;
When the image processing unit performs image processing on the composite image data related to the composite image, the template image data related to the template image constituting the composite image is specified by the operation of the image processing device or the image processing terminal. A template specifying means,
In the image processing apparatus or the image processing terminal, whether or not the specified template image data or the elements constituting the template image can be used is determined, and if it cannot be used, a signal to that effect is displayed and used. In this case, an image forming system having a function of performing predetermined image processing including creation of a composite image using the image data and template image data. A function of a part of a plurality of image processing apparatuses or image processing terminals being connected via the image processing unit or to each other and storing information on one or a plurality of template image data and elements constituting the template image In an image forming system having
The other image processing device or image processing terminal that has received the request signal for template image data from one image processing device or image processing terminal obtains information on the template image data and the elements constituting the template image, 2. The image forming system according to claim 1, further comprising a function of transmitting to an image processing apparatus or an image processing terminal. Area specifying data for storing area specifying data for specifying a net main image area excluding the template image area from the composite image formed by combining the main image with the template image in association with the template image data related to the template image Storage means;
Area specifying data acquisition means for acquiring area specifying data associated with the template image data specified by the template specifying means from the area specifying data storage means;
Area specifying means for specifying a net main image area of the composite image based on the area specifying data acquired by the area specifying data acquiring means,
In the image processing apparatus or the image processing terminal, it is determined whether or not the template image data or the elements constituting the template image can be used, and if it cannot be used, a signal indicating that is displayed and if it can be used 3. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the image forming system has a function of performing predetermined image processing including creation of a composite image only on a net main image area specified by the area specifying means.   The information on the elements constituting the template image is information on whether or not a license is required for use of the template image, or license information when a license is required. The image forming system according to any one of the above.   The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the information of the elements constituting the template image is character font information or symbol notation information used in the template image. An image input unit to which image data is input and an image processing unit having a function of performing image processing on the input image data are connected to one or a plurality of other image processing apparatuses or image processing terminals. In the image processing apparatus
Template information storage means for storing a plurality of template image data and information of elements constituting the template image;
When the image processing unit performs image processing on the composite image data related to the composite image, template specifying means for specifying the template image data related to the template image constituting the composite image, and
An image processing apparatus having a function of transmitting template image data and information on elements constituting the template image in response to a request signal for template image data from the other image processing apparatus or image processing terminal.   It has terminal information storage means for receiving and storing information from the image processing apparatus or image processing terminal, including the request signal, template image data, and determination information on whether or not to use the elements constituting the template image. The image processing apparatus according to claim 6.   It has display control means for receiving the request signal, template image data, and determination information on whether or not to use the elements constituting the template image, and transmitting the display information to the image processing apparatus or the image processing terminal related to the reception. 8. An image processing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the image processing apparatus is characterized in that:

Images