JP2006293469A - Composite image print system, service base point device to be used for the same system and composite image print service providing method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To realize a new composite image print system for sharply increasing the degree of freedom of material selection to be used for image printing, and for miniaturizing the sales equipment of a sticker, and for forming a network by connecting a plurality of equipment, and for providing various flexible services when providing the print service of a composite image. <P>SOLUTION: A camera photographing function and an image synthesis function installed in a portable telephone terminal 30 are used so that a user P freely selects materials by using his or her own portable terminal. A service base point device 20 is configured to specialize in the provision of original materials for image synthesis and the printing of a photographic sticker or the like. The provision processing (phase 1) of the original materials and the transfer of the synthesis image (phase 3) are executed by using a short-range data communication interface. Thus, it is possible to urge the user P to surely visit, and to obtain effects for attracting customers or increasing repeaters. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a composite image printing service method using a mobile terminal, a service system that implements the method, and a service base device.

  Conventionally, a stand-alone type face photo sticker vending machine using image composition processing is known. After charging the face photo sticker vending machine, the user takes a picture of the user's face using the camera provided in the vending machine. The captured image is combined with the provided material image, and the combined image is output from the vending machine as a face photo sticker.

  Patent Document 1 discloses an image printing system that transfers an image recorded on a camera-equipped mobile phone to a sticker photo printing and selling machine and prints a sticker photo based on the transferred image.

  Conventionally, a mobile phone that can be connected to a USB cable has been proposed (Patent Document 2), and a mobile phone incorporating a non-contact IC card has been proposed (Patent Document 3).

  A mobile phone having an image composition processing function has been proposed (Patent Document 4).

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2004-117995 JP 2003-158561 A JP 2004-56413 A JP 2004-32663 A

  In order to create a sticker with a conventional face photo sticker vending machine (or a sticker photo printing vending machine disclosed in Patent Document 1), a user's own face photo is taken (or an image recorded in a mobile phone is delivered). , Selection of material images (background, outer frame, one-point character, logo mark, etc.) to be used for image composition, image composition, confirmation of composition results, sticker printing and a series of processing of output, all face photo stickers It is necessary to carry out at a vending machine (stick photo printing vending machine).

  For this reason, the following restrictions inevitably occur.

  (1) The user needs to wait in front of the face photo sticker vending machine (stick photo print vending machine) until the series of processes is completed, and the user is restrained for a long time.

  (2) When creating a sticker, take a photo of the face on the spot, or take a photo of the face with a camera-equipped mobile phone by that time (and decide which face photo to use) It is necessary) In the former case, there are few face photo options used for image composition, and the face photo cannot be freely changed. In the latter case, the user's favorite image can be used, but the confirmation of the image after the image composition is performed only after the image composition processing is performed in the sticker photo printing and vending machine and in front of the vending machine. I can't. Therefore, if the user does not like the result of the image synthesis, it is necessary to specify the image to be used again and start a series of processes from the beginning, and it may not be possible to create a seal that reflects the user's request.

  (3) Since the face photo sticker vending machine (stick photo printing vending machine) needs to carry out a series of processes, it becomes a considerably large-scale device and requires a considerable installation space and installation cost. Therefore, the area where the face photo sticker vending machine (stick photo printing vending machine) is installed (the area where it can be installed) tends to be limited (for example, the installation location tends to be limited to toy counters in game centers and department stores). is there). In addition, since it is a stand-alone type device, it is difficult to construct an organized service system.

  Therefore, for example, it is not possible to easily create a face photo sticker to leave a memorial by using a long waiting time when using an attraction in a theme park, and it is not possible to limit the space of restaurants and taverns. It is difficult to install a face photo sticker vending machine (stick photo print vending machine) at the designated location.

  (4) The conventional sticker creation service has an emphasis on “printing” the composite image sticker, and includes the point that the user can freely select the material and enjoy the way of image composition. In terms of providing a comprehensive service (that is, systematic integration of the steps up to the creation of the seal), there are insufficient points.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and when providing a composite image printing service, the time for which a user is restrained by a seal vending machine or the like is shortened, and the degree of freedom in selecting a material used for image printing is increased. The user can select a mode of image composition as much as possible, and the user can select an appropriate mode, and the size of the seal sales device can be reduced, and a network can be formed by connecting a plurality of devices. It is an object to provide a composite image printing system capable of receiving services in an area and thereby providing various and flexible services, a service base device used in the system, and a composite image printing service providing method .

  A composite image printing system according to the present invention includes a mobile terminal communication unit that performs short-range data communication, an imaging unit, and an image synthesis unit that edits an image, and a service base communication unit that performs short-range data communication. A composite image printing system comprising: material storage means for storing original material images that can be used for image editing; and image printing means for printing images, and at least one service base device. The service base communication unit of the service base device transmits the original material image stored in the material storage unit to the mobile terminal device, and the image composition unit of the mobile terminal device includes at least the imaging unit. Images collected or created using the function of the device and received from the service base device by the mobile terminal communication means The original material image is combined to generate a composite image, and the mobile terminal communication means of the mobile terminal device transmits the composite image generated by the previous image composite means to the service base device, and the service base The image printing means of the apparatus prints the composite image received from the portable terminal device by the service base communication means.

  With this configuration, it is possible to install a plurality of service base devices in an area such as a theme park, manage user usage in a centralized manner, and accurately charge each person's service usage. . Users can easily receive services anywhere using service base equipment that is close to them, and the original materials to be provided can be made different according to the location of each service base equipment, It is possible to provide comprehensive services unique to the area, such as discounting the service fee according to the use status of the attraction, and a service system with a high degree of freedom is constructed.

  A composite image printing service providing method of the present invention includes a mobile terminal device having a short-range data communication function, an imaging function, and an image composition function, a short-range data communication function, a function for providing an original material image for image composition, and an image print function. A composite image print service providing method for providing an image composite print service to a user of the mobile terminal device using a combination of at least one service base device comprising: the original material image as the mobile terminal device A first step of providing the original material image from the service base device to the mobile terminal device by short-range data communication, on condition that payment of a fee for providing to the mobile terminal device is performed; Images collected or created using the imaging function of the terminal device or other functions, and the service A second step of generating a composite image by combining the original material image provided from the point device, and a step of transmitting the composite image to the service base device by short-range data communication. And a fourth step of printing the composite image using the image printing function of the service base device, on condition that payment is made for using the image printing function of the service base device. , Including.

  Paying attention to the data communication function and image processing (image composition) function of the mobile terminal, a service that allows the user to perform image shooting (or image creation) and image composition using the mobile terminal and install it in a predetermined area The base device is responsible for providing services exclusively for providing original materials and printing. The user first receives the original material from the service base device (first step), and then freely collects and creates an image using his / her mobile terminal, and the collected and created image and the original provided. Image composition with the material is also performed freely according to the user's preference (second step), and the composite image is transferred to the service base device (third step), printed by the service base device, and sealed. As the output (fourth step). The user only needs to be in front of the service base device when receiving the provision of the original image and at the time of printing, the restraint time is shortened, and the user himself can freely perform image collection, creation, and image composition, The user's preference can be flexibly and accurately reflected in the print image. The service base equipment is reduced in size by a small amount of functions and can be installed in a narrow space. If multiple service base devices are installed in an area such as a theme park and the usage status of users is centrally managed, users can easily receive services anywhere using the service base devices that are close to them. Is possible. In addition, since the original material is provided by short-range data communication with a limited effective distance, the user must always go to the area where the service base device is installed in order to receive the service. Therefore, this image printing service also has the effect of attracting customers, and the added value of the service is high. In addition, this method separates the image shooting (image creation) stage and the image synthesis stage from each stage up to image printing and charges only for the original material providing service and the printing service, so the service fee can be reduced. . In addition, we offer comprehensive services unique to that area, such as changing the original materials to be provided according to the installation location of each service base device, and discounting the service fee according to the usage status of attractions in that area. It is also possible to do. Therefore, it is possible to realize a new image printing service that can provide various and flexible services.

  In the composite image printing system of the present invention, the portable terminal communication means of the portable terminal device and the service base communication means of the service base device are compatible with a wired communication method or a wireless communication method with a limited effective distance. , Including those characterized by.

  For example, an original material is provided or a composite image to be printed is delivered by short-range data communication by wire using a USB cable, short-range data communication by wireless using infrared rays, or the like. Because short distance data communication with limited effective distance is used, in order to use this service, it is necessary for the user to visit the area, thus ensuring the locality of the original material provided, and This service can also be expected to attract customers.

  In the composite image printing system of the present invention, the material storage means of the service base device stores the usable conditions for permitting editing by the image composition means of the portable terminal device in association with the original material image. And the image synthesizing unit of the portable terminal device synthesizes the original material image received from the service base device by the portable terminal communication unit to generate a synthesized image while the usable condition is satisfied. Including those characterized by this.

  Further, the composite image printing service providing method of the present invention is configured such that the original material image provided from the service base device to the mobile terminal in the first step is allowed to be edited by the mobile terminal device. Is added, and a composite image is generated using the original material image while the usable condition is satisfied in the second step.

  The original material once provided is provided with a usable condition (usable, frequency, usable period, etc.), and after the condition is satisfied, the original material cannot be used. Thus, in order for a user who likes the service to use the service again, it is necessary to always visit the area, and therefore, an effect of increasing repeaters (customers who repeatedly visit) can be expected.

  The service base device of the present invention includes a service base communication means for performing short-range data communication with a mobile terminal device, a material storage means for storing an original material image that can be used for editing an image by the mobile terminal device, and printing an image And an image printing unit that transmits the original material image stored in the material storage unit to the portable terminal device, and the image printing unit includes the service printing unit. The original material image edited by the portable terminal device received from the portable terminal device by the base communication means is printed.

  According to this configuration, the service base apparatus according to the present invention does not include the imaging function and the image processing (image composition) function, and thus can be reduced in size and installed in a narrow space. Therefore, it is possible to place multiple service base devices at predetermined intervals in vacant areas near the entrance gates of popular attractions in theme parks, and also install them in places with limited space such as restaurants and taverns. Can do. It is also easy to network a plurality of service base devices by connecting a common billing database or the like.

  According to the present invention, when a composite image printing service is provided, the time during which a user is restrained by a seal vending machine or the like can be shortened.

  In addition, the degree of freedom in selecting a material used for image printing can be significantly increased. A memorable scene can be photographed in a timely manner and then printed as a sticker. Therefore, it is possible to create a valuable face photo sticker that incorporates a memorable fun scene.

  In addition, the image composition mode can be appropriately selected by the user, and various image composition is possible.

  In addition, since the original material is provided by short-range data communication with a limited effective distance, the user must always go to the area where the service base device is installed in order to receive the service. Therefore, the locality of the original material provided can be secured and the effect of attracting customers can be expected.

  Moreover, the effect which increases a repeater can also be anticipated by imposing restrictions, such as an expiration date and use frequency, on the original material provided.

  In the service method of the present invention, only the original material providing service and the printing service are charged, so the service charge can be reduced.

  In addition, since the service base device has a simplified function, the device can be miniaturized, and space saving and device cost can be reduced.

  In addition, it is easy to connect a plurality of service base devices to form a network, and thus it is possible for a user to easily receive a service by using familiar service base devices.

  Providing comprehensive services unique to the area, such as changing the original materials to be provided according to the installation location of each service base device, and discounting the service fee according to the usage status of attractions in the area It is possible to build a systematic service system with a high degree of freedom.

  By using the long waiting time when using attractions in theme parks, the present invention makes it easy to create a face photo sticker to leave a memorial, and create a fun atmosphere for dinner and banquets at restaurants and taverns. You will be able to create a memorable facial photo sticker in a timely manner.

  Therefore, it is possible to realize a new image printing service that is useful for both the user and the sales person operating in the place where the service base device is installed.

  As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to create a face photo sticker or the like for leaving a memorial under a free physical and time situation, such as using a long waiting time at a theme park or the like. An image printing service can be realized.

  In addition, it is possible to realize an image printing service that can be used even in a limited space such as a restaurant or a pub.

  In addition, after confirming the composite frame information (original material information) possessed by the service base device, the composition of the base material (mainly photographs) can be changed as appropriate, and the user's request is reflected in the seal design. It is possible to realize an image printing service that can be used.

  In addition, it is possible to create a billing mechanism by paying a fee from a mobile terminal (such as a mobile phone terminal), and to establish the above service as a pay service that is established as a business.

Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
(First embodiment)

  FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining a feature point of an image printing service method using a mobile terminal (here, a mobile phone terminal) according to the present invention.

  One or a plurality of service base devices 20 are installed in a predetermined area 100 (for example, a theme park site, an amusement facility such as a game center, or a place where people such as izakayas relax).

  The service base device 20 prints and outputs the composite material database 21 storing the original material unique to the area 100 (original photograph for image composition, one-point mark, logo, tagline, etc.) and the photo sticker 50. A photo sticker printing device (photo sticker printer) 22.

  In addition, a billing management device 42 is connected to each of the one or more service base devices 20 (for example, via a wired communication path). The billing management device 42 can manage billing by grasping the usage situation for each user. This billing management device 42 has a built-in fee payer management database (DB).

  The mobile phone terminal 30 owned by the user (P or U) includes a camera 32, a short distance data interface (I / F) 34, an image composition unit 36, and an image memory 38.

  Specifically, the short distance data interface (I / F) 34 includes a non-contact IC card interface for exchanging management data, and a USB cable interface (or an original material and a composite image data). A short-range wireless interface such as an infrared interface).

  The image printing service method of the present invention has three stages, namely, phase 1 (original material providing stage) and phase 2 (free image collection and image creation, image synthesis of original material and collected image, and synthesis. Image confirmation stage) and phase 3 (composite image delivery, photo sticker printing stage).

  The conventional face photo vending machine has performed all the series of processing up to the printing of the face photo sticker, but in the method of the present invention, paying attention to the rich data communication function and image processing function provided in the mobile terminal, A series of processes related to collection and image composition (including image collection by camera photography or image creation using image processing, image synthesis of the collected and created images and the original material provided, and confirmation of the composite image) This process is separated from the process, and this process is freely performed by the user using his portable terminal.

  As a result, the degree of freedom in selecting the material used for image printing is greatly increased, and the user can select the mode of image composition as appropriate.

  However, even if the degree of freedom of material selection is improved, the use of short-range data communication for image transfer limits the degree of freedom of location, and the user can use this image printing service. In order to receive the service, it is necessary to go to the area 100 where the service base device 20 is installed. This ensures the locality of the original material provided by the service base device 20 and attracts customers. The effect and the effect which increases a repeater (revisitor) are produced.

  Further, since the function of the service base device 20 is simplified, it is possible to reduce the size and weight of the device, and it is possible to install a plurality of devices at distant positions, or a space. It will be possible to install in places with few.

In addition, systematic service development that is deeply linked to sales in the area 100 can be easily performed.
(Second Embodiment)

  FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an example of an operation mode of the image printing service method using the portable terminal of the present invention (an operation example in a theme park).

  In FIG. 2, the theme park 2 has an entrance gate 10, an exit gate 12, and three attractions (X1, Y1, Z1). In addition, there is a predetermined area near the place where each attraction is waiting to enter. A plurality of (networked) service base devices 20a to 20e are provided at intervals.

  The user P of the portable terminal 30 enters the theme park 102 from the entrance gate together with the friend U.

  First, the mobile terminal 30 is connected to the service base device 20d that is close to the user, and the authentication data and the fee are paid through the communication channel Q using the non-contact IC card, and at the same time, the service Original material data for image composition, accompanying information, restriction item data, and the like are received from the base device 20d through a short-range data communication transmission path R such as a USB cable (phase 1).

  The usage status of the user P is centrally managed by a charge payer management database (DB) 40 in the charge management device 42.

  The user P and the friend U move to the attraction Y1, take a commemorative photo using the waiting time, etc., and use the image composition unit 36 (see FIG. 1) to connect the taken image and the provided original material. An image composition process is performed, and a favorite composite image is stored in the image memory 38 (see FIG. 1) in the portable terminal 30 (phase 2).

  Then, on the way home, the user P connects his / her mobile terminal 30 to the nearest service base device 20e, and transfers the composite image to be printed to the service base device 20e using short-range data communication. The service base device 20e performs the printing process on the condition that the fee is paid, and as a result, the face photo sticker 50 is output (phase 3).

  As shown in the upper side of FIG. 2, this face photo sticker is centered by the user P and friends U and is decorated with an outer frame ST made of original material. Character (one-point character with high locality) MS is synthesized. Character information such as date stamps, message texts, logos, and single words can also be added thereto.

In this way, it is possible to collect memorable scenes as images in a timely manner and combine them with highly original materials to create a print image (face photo sticker, etc.) 50 that is worthy of the day. it can.
(Third embodiment)

  In the present embodiment, specific internal configurations of the mobile terminal (mobile phone) and the service base device used in the image printing service method using the mobile terminal of the present invention (and the overall configuration of the service system of the present invention). And the specific aspect of transmission / reception of information between a portable terminal (mobile telephone) and a service base apparatus is demonstrated.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing specific internal configurations of the mobile phone and the service base device (and the overall configuration of the service system of the present invention) used in the image printing service method using the mobile terminal of the present invention. is there. In FIG. 3, the same reference numerals are given to the portions common to the above-mentioned drawings.

  The cellular phone 30 includes an antenna AN, a wireless communication unit 31, a camera 32, a control unit 33, a data communication interface (I / F) 34, a network connection unit 35, an image composition processing unit 36, and a display unit. 37, an operation unit 39, and an image management database 45 incorporating an image memory 38.

  The camera 32 photographs the subject OJ.

  The display unit 37 includes a liquid crystal display and the like, and presents a service screen, a processing screen, and the like to the user P.

  The user P performs a process selection operation, an image composition operation, a shooting operation, and the like via the operation unit 39.

  The data communication interface (I / F) 34 includes a communication device A (data transfer device such as a USB or an infrared communication device) 41 and a communication device B (non-contact IC card) 43.

  On the other hand, each of the plurality of service base devices 20a to 20d provided in the predetermined area 100 includes a communication device A (data transfer device such as a USB or an infrared communication device) and a communication device B (non-contact IC card) 26. , A composite material database 21, a photo sticker printing device 22, a control unit 23, and a network connection device 24.

  In the above system, the communication device A is used for delivery of printing material data, material-accompanying data, processing commands, personal authentication data, and printing image data. The communication device B is used for delivery of personal authentication data and fee information.

  FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of a communication processing procedure between the service base device and the mobile phone terminal.

  In phase 1 (composite material acquisition stage), first, transmission line connection (connection processing) is performed (S180), and service fee payment processing using a non-contact IC is performed (S181).

  As a form of payment of this fee, there are a method of paying only the fee for Phase 1 (composite material acquisition) and a method of paying the fees for Phase 1 and Phase 3 (print output) in a lump sum. In addition, depending on the form of payment, the service provider can also grant and add services (fee discount, provision of privilege sticker books, etc.).

  Next, composite material provision (validation of synthesis processing) is performed (S183).

  Subsequently, an update process of the charge payer management database 40 is performed (S184), and a transmission line disconnection process is performed (S185).

  In phase 2 (composite image creation stage), according to the user's selection (S186), image / material acquisition (collection) processing (S187) and image composition processing (S188) are appropriately performed, and according to the user's selection. (S189) and repeating these processes, a favorite composite image can be created.

  In phase 3 (print output stage), first, transmission path connection processing is performed (S190). Next, a print processing request (S191), authentication-specific information transmission (S192), a charge payer management database 40 is updated (S193), and a service charge is paid as required (S194: lump sum payment in S181) (If the service has been completed, it is omitted. Service can be added and added in the same manner as in S181).

  Subsequently, a printing process (S195), a printing restriction update (S196: For example, when the usage count is limited, the actual usage count is updated), and finally a cutting process is performed (S197).

  Next, the communication procedure in Phase 1 (the stage of receiving provision of original material from the service base device) and the processing procedure in each part will be described more specifically.

  5 and 6 show specific contents of the communication procedure between the user, the mobile phone terminal, and the service base device in the phase 1 of the image printing service providing method using the mobile terminal of the present invention, and the processing procedure in each part. FIG.

  In the following description, an example of a screen displayed on the display unit 37 of the mobile phone terminal 30 shown in FIG. Further, a specific example of data management in the image management database 45 in the mobile phone terminal 30 during the following processing procedure is shown in FIG. 12, and FIG. 12 is also referred to as appropriate in the following description.

  In FIG. 5, first, transmission path establishment processing (connection processing) is performed (S200).

  Subsequently, a service selection screen (screen display (1): see FIG. 10A) is displayed on the display unit 37 of the mobile phone terminal 30 (S201). As shown in FIG. 10A, a service option “1. Composite material acquisition, 2. Image sticker printing” is presented together with a title “Service selection screen”.

  Next, the user P performs service selection (S202), and here, selects a composite material acquisition process (S203).

  The cellular phone terminal 30 transmits a composite material list request to the service base device 20 using the communication device A (S204).

  In response to this, the service base device 20 returns the composite material data stored in the composite material database 21 (S205). However, at this time, since the payment of the fee has not been confirmed, the composite material data cannot be used on the mobile phone terminal 30.

  The mobile phone terminal 30 that has received the provided composite material data registers the composite material data in the image management database 45 (see FIG. 3).

  The state of the image management database 457 in this case (described as Ph1-DB (1) in FIG. 5) is shown in FIG. 12 (a). That is, a unique ID in the terminal is assigned to the obtained composite material data, and file names (frame 001, frame 002, stamp A, stamp B) are stored, and a flag indicating validity / invalidity is set for each composite material data. Inactive, all composite material data is invalid (that is, cannot be used).

  Subsequently, the service base device 20 transmits the composite material accompanying information (usage fee, usage restriction data (usage time limit, usage limit number, etc.)) to the mobile phone terminal device 30 (S206).

  Next, the mobile phone terminal 30 performs a setting process for the composite material and the restriction information (S207). That is, in the mobile phone terminal 30, the provided composite material is associated with the accompanying information, and the image management database 45 is updated.

  The state of the image management database 45 in this case (described as Ph1-DB (2) in FIG. 5) is as described in FIG. 12 (b). That is, restriction information such as the number of effective times and the expiration date is added to each composite material data.

  Returning to FIG. 5, next, the display unit 37 of the mobile phone terminal 30 displays an acquirable material list display (screen display (2): see FIG. 10 (b)). As shown in FIG. 10 (b), along with the title of the material list, restriction information such as the material type (frame, stamp), fee, number of usable times, expiration date, etc. is presented to the user P.

  In FIG. 5, the user P operates the operation unit 39 to select a material and select execution of acquisition processing (S209).

  Next, a payment form selection screen (screen display (3): see FIG. 10C) is displayed on the display unit 37 of the mobile phone terminal 30 (S210). As shown in FIG. 10 (c), together with the title “payment form”, a selection item of the payment form of the charge (whether to pay only the material acquisition fee, to make a lump sum payment including the printing fee, or to cancel) Is presented to the user.

  The user P operates the operation unit 39 to select a payment form (S211). Here, it is assumed that payment of only the fee for material acquisition is selected.

  For the composite material selected by the user P, the mobile phone terminal 30 transmits a request for enabling the composite material processing using the communication device A (request for making the previously acquired material available) (S212). .

  Next, as shown in FIG. 6, the service base device 20 starts reading using a non-contact IC card (S220).

  That is, the communication device A is used to request a fee (a printing fee if necessary) for validating the composition processing in the mobile phone terminal 30 for the requested composition material (S221). The fee is collected according to the payment mode selected by the user.

  In the mobile phone terminal 30, a payment screen (screen display (4): see FIG. 10D) is displayed on the display unit 37 (S222). As shown in FIG. 10 (d), a charge for only the acquisition of the composite material is shown together with the title “fee payment”, and further a message sentence “Please read the IC” prompting the user to operate the device is presented. Is done.

  The user P performs an operation for payment of the service fee according to the message (S223).

  The mobile phone terminal 30 performs a service fee payment process using the communication device B (S224), and then transmits the authentication specific information using the communication device B (S225).

  On the service base device 20 side, the charge payer database 40 is updated (S226). When the payment of the charge is confirmed, the authentication unique information is stored in the charge payer management database 40.

  Next, the service base device 20 transmits a permission for enabling the composite material using the communication device A (S227). That is, the usage is permitted for the material for which the fee has been paid.

  In the mobile phone terminal 30, the synthetic material validation process is performed (S228). The state (Ph1-DB (3)) of the image management database 38 in this case is shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 12C, since the fee has been paid for the frame 001 and the stamp B, the activation processing is performed for the two materials, and the image can be used as the image composition material.

  Next, the service base device 20 notifies that payment of the fee has been confirmed using the communication device A (S229). On the display unit 37 of the mobile phone terminal 30, an acquisition process completion screen (screen display (5): see FIG. 10 (e)) is displayed.

  That is, as shown in FIG. 10 (e), a message sentence “Material acquisition complete, please disconnect the transmission path” is presented to the user P together with the title “Acquisition complete”.

  Then, transmission line disconnection processing is performed (S231), and phase 1 ends.

  Next, the processing procedure in phase 2 (the stage of performing free image collection and image composition processing using the user's mobile phone terminal) will be described more specifically.

  FIG. 7 is a sequence showing the specific contents of the communication procedure between the user, the mobile phone terminal and the service base device and the processing procedure in each part in the phase 2 of the image print service providing method using the mobile terminal of the present invention. FIG.

  Further, a specific example of data management in the image management database 45 in the mobile phone terminal 30 during the following processing procedure is shown in FIG. 12, and FIG. 12 is also referred to as appropriate in the following description.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the user P performs a predetermined input operation using the operation unit 39 of the mobile phone terminal 30 in order to take an image using the camera 32 attached to the mobile phone terminal 30 (S239).

  Hereinafter, the process branches according to the request of the user P (S240). When a composite image is created, an image composition process is performed (S241), and when a material for creating a composite image is acquired, Image material acquisition processing is performed (S242).

  In the image composition process (S241), the image (provided material and the image captured and collected by itself) stored in the image management database 45 are read, and the image composition processing unit 36 performs image composition.

  The image composition processing is basically realized by combining enlargement / reduction of the image to be combined, parallel movement / rotation, and image conversion processing (for example, processing such as blurring) as necessary. .

  In the composite material acquisition process (S242), in addition to collecting images by photographing with the camera 32, the collected images are appropriately processed using the image processing function of the mobile phone terminal 30 to create a new image. Such processing can also be performed.

  When the above process is repeated (S243), it is possible to freely perform the image composition process and the composite material acquisition process any number of times.

  FIG. 12D shows the state (Ph2-DB (1)) of the image management database 45 in the mobile phone terminal 30 when the combining process (S241) of FIG. 7 is performed. That is, an ID number is assigned to a composite image (material use image) created using the provided material for management. This is because when a use material expires and the provided material is invalidated (that is, erased), it is also necessary to erase the composite image created based on the material.

  Next, the communication procedure in phase 3 (print output processing) and the processing procedure in each unit will be described more specifically.

  8 and 9 show specific contents of the communication procedure between the user, the mobile phone terminal, and the service base device in the phase 3 of the image print service providing method using the mobile terminal of the present invention, and the processing procedure in each part. FIG.

  In the following description, examples of screens displayed on the display unit 37 of the mobile phone terminal 30 shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 will be referred to as appropriate. Further, a specific example of data management in the image management database 45 in the mobile phone terminal 30 during the following processing procedure is shown in FIG. 12, and FIG. 12 is also referred to as appropriate in the following description.

  First, a transmission path establishment process is performed (S250).

  Next, a service selection screen (screen display (6): see FIG. 10A) is displayed on the display unit 37 of the mobile phone terminal 30.

  The user P selects a service while viewing the service selection screen (S252-1). That is, the printing process is selected (S252-2).

  An image selection display (image display (7): see FIG. 11A) is displayed on the display unit 37 of the mobile phone terminal 30 (S253). That is, as shown in FIG. 11A, a list of composite images is displayed together with the title “print image selection”. Data relating to usage restrictions is also added to each composite image.

  The user P refers to the composite image list, selects a composite image to be printed, and selects print processing execution (S254).

  Next, the cellular phone terminal 30 transmits a print processing request to the service base device 20 using the communication device A (S255). The service base apparatus 20 requests information transmission for device authentication using the communication device (S256).

  On the display unit 37 of the mobile phone terminal, a screen indicating that the authentication process is in progress (screen display (8): see FIG. 11B) is displayed. That is, as shown in FIG. 11 (b), a message sentence “Please confirm the payment of the printing fee. Please wait” is presented to the user P together with the title “device authentication”.

  The cellular phone terminal 30 transmits the unique information for authentication using the communication device A (S258). At this time, the unique information of the portable terminal transmitted using the non-contact IC in phase 1 is transmitted again.

  Next, the service base device 20 performs verification processing of the charge payer database 40 (S259). That is, the unique information sent from the mobile phone terminal 30 is collated with the unique information for authentication stored in the charge payer management database 40.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the printing fee has been paid (S260). If payment has been made, the process proceeds to ST of FIG. 9, and if payment has not been completed, a printing fee is requested using the communication device A (see FIG. 9). S261).

  Subsequently, the process shown in FIG. 9 is performed.

  As shown in FIG. 9, a payment screen (screen display (9): see FIG. 11 (c)) is displayed on the display unit 37 of the mobile phone terminal 30. That is, as shown in FIG. 11 (c), a print fee and a message “Please read IC” are presented to the user P together with the title “charge payment”.

  The user P performs a service fee (printing fee) payment operation using the communication device B (S271).

  The mobile phone terminal 30 performs a service fee (printing fee) payment process using the communication device B (S272). The service base device 20 uses the communication device A to notify that payment has been confirmed (S273).

  A payment OK screen (screen display (10): see FIG. 11 (d)) is displayed on the display unit 37 of the mobile phone terminal 30. That is, as shown in FIG. 11 (d), the message “Payment of printing fee has been confirmed. Printing will be performed” is presented to the user P together with the title “Payment confirmation”.

  The service base device 20 performs a printing process (S275). As a result, the composite image is output as a photographic sticker or the like (it is also possible to output in a format other than a sticker).

  Then, the data of the fee payment database 40 in the service base device 20 is updated (S276). The unique information for authentication is updated.

  Next, using the communication device A, the service base device 20 transmits a print completion notification to the mobile phone terminal 30 (S277).

  The mobile phone terminal 30 updates the restriction information about the provided original composite material in the image management database 45 (S278).

  Then, a process (synthetic material deletion process) is performed to delete the composite material (and the composite image synthesized using the composite material) whose usable count has become zero (or the expiration date has expired). (S279).

  The state (Ph3-DB (1)) of the image management database 38 in this case is shown in FIG. That is, as shown in FIG. 12 (e), the material whose usable count has become zero is invalidated (M1), and data is deleted in the next step (M2).

  Next, a print processing completion screen (screen display (11): see FIG. 11 (e)) is displayed on the display unit 37 of the mobile phone terminal 30. As shown in FIG. 11 (e), a message “Printing completed, please disconnect the transmission path” is presented to the user P together with the title “Printing completed” (S280).

  Then, transmission line disconnection processing is performed (S281).

  As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to create a face photo sticker or the like for leaving a memorial under a free physical and time situation, such as using a long waiting time at a theme park or the like. An image printing service can be realized.

  In addition, it is possible to realize an image printing service that can be used even in a limited space such as a restaurant or a pub.

  In addition, after confirming the composite frame information (original material information) possessed by the service base device, the composition of the base material (mainly photographs) can be changed as appropriate, and the user's request is reflected in the seal design. It is possible to realize an image printing service that can be used.

  In addition, it is possible to create a billing mechanism by paying a fee from a mobile terminal (such as a mobile phone terminal), and to establish the above service as a pay service that is established as a business.

  As described above, according to the present invention, when a composite image printing service is provided, the time during which a user is restrained by a seal vending machine or the like can be shortened.

  In addition, the degree of freedom in selecting a material used for image printing can be significantly increased. You can shoot a memorable scene in a timely manner and then print it as a sticker, so you can create (print) a valuable face photo sticker that incorporates a memorable and fun scene. It becomes.

  In addition, the image composition mode can be appropriately selected by the user, and various image composition is possible.

  In addition, since the original material is provided by short-range data communication with a limited effective distance, the user must always go to the area where the service base device is installed in order to receive the service. Therefore, the locality of the original material provided can be secured and the effect of attracting customers can be expected.

  Moreover, the effect which increases a repeater can also be anticipated by imposing restrictions, such as an expiration date and use frequency, on the original material provided.

  In the service method of the present invention, only the original material providing service and the printing service are charged, so the service charge can be reduced.

  In addition, since the service base device has a simplified function, the device can be miniaturized, and space saving and device cost can be reduced.

  In addition, it is easy to connect a plurality of service base devices to form a network, and thus it is possible for a user to easily receive a service by using familiar service base devices.

  Providing comprehensive services unique to the area, such as changing the original materials to be provided according to the installation location of each service base device, and discounting the service fee according to the usage status of attractions in the area It is possible to build a systematic service system with a high degree of freedom.

  By using the long waiting time when using attractions in theme parks, the present invention makes it easy to create a face photo sticker to leave a memorial, and create a fun atmosphere for dinner and banquets at restaurants and taverns. You will be able to create a memorable facial photo sticker in a timely manner.

  Therefore, it is possible to realize a new image printing service that is useful for both the user and the sales person operating in the place where the service base device is installed.

  INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY The present invention has the effect of increasing the degree of freedom of image selection and creating a valuable face photo sticker that incorporates a memorable scene. Therefore, a composite image printing system using a portable terminal device is provided. It is useful as a service base device used in the system and a composite image printing service providing method.

The figure for demonstrating the feature point of the image printing service method using the portable terminal (here, it is set as a mobile telephone terminal) of this invention The figure for demonstrating an example (operation example in a theme park) of the operation | use aspect of the image printing service method using the portable terminal of this invention The block diagram which shows the specific internal structure (and whole structure of the service system of this invention) of a mobile telephone and a service base apparatus which are used for the image printing service method using the portable terminal of this invention. Sequence diagram showing an example of a communication processing procedure between a service base device and a mobile phone terminal The sequence diagram which shows the specific content of the communication procedure between a user, a mobile telephone terminal, and a service base apparatus in the phase 1 of the image printing service provision method using the portable terminal of this invention, and each part. The sequence diagram which shows the specific content of the communication procedure between a user, a mobile telephone terminal, and a service base apparatus in the phase 1 of the image printing service provision method using the portable terminal of this invention, and each part. The sequence diagram which shows the specific content of the communication procedure between a user, a mobile telephone terminal, and a service base apparatus in the phase 2 of the image printing service provision method using the portable terminal of this invention, and each part. The sequence diagram which shows the specific content of the communication procedure between a user, a mobile telephone terminal, and a service base apparatus in the phase 3 of the image print service provision method using the portable terminal of this invention, and each part. The sequence diagram which shows the specific content of the communication procedure between a user, a mobile telephone terminal, and a service base apparatus in the phase 3 of the image print service provision method using the portable terminal of this invention, and each part. (A)-(e) is a figure which shows the example of a screen display displayed on the display part of a mobile telephone terminal (A)-(e) is a figure which shows the example of a screen display displayed on the display part of a mobile telephone terminal (A)-(e) is a figure which shows the specific example of the management data in the image management database in a mobile telephone terminal

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Entrance gate 12 Exit gate 20 (20a-20e) Service base apparatus 21 Composite material database 22 Photo sticker printing device 30 Mobile terminal (cell-phone terminal)
31 Wireless Communication Unit 32 Camera 33 Control Unit 34 Short Range Data Communication Interface (I / F)
35 Network connection unit 36 Image composition unit 37 Display unit 38 Image memory 39 Operation unit 40, 25 Charge payer management database 41, 26 Communication device A (short distance data communication device such as USB cable or infrared communication)
42 Accounting Management Device 43 Communication Device B (Non-contact IC Card Device)
50 Output images such as photo stickers 100 Predetermined area (service area)
102 Theme park Q Non-contact IC communication path R USB cable transmission path P User U User P's friend X1, Y1, Z1 Attraction AN Antenna ST Outer frame with original material provided MS One-point mark with original material provided

Claims (6)

A portable terminal device including a portable terminal communication unit that performs short-range data communication, an imaging unit, and an image composition unit that edits an image; a service base communication unit that performs short-range data communication; an original usable for image editing A composite image printing system comprising: material storage means for storing material images; and image printing means for printing images; and at least one service base device,
The service base communication means of the service base device transmits the original material image stored in the material storage means to the mobile terminal device,
The image synthesizing means of the portable terminal device includes an image collected or created using a function of a portable terminal device including at least the imaging means, an original material image received from the service base device by the portable terminal communication means, To generate a composite image,
The mobile terminal communication means of the mobile terminal device transmits the composite image generated by the previous image composite means to the service base device,
The image printing means of the service base device prints the composite image received from the mobile terminal device by the service base communication means.
Composite image printing system. The composite image printing system according to claim 1,
The composite image printing system, wherein the mobile terminal communication unit of the mobile terminal device and the service base communication unit of the service base device are compatible with a wired communication method or a wireless communication method with a limited effective distance. The composite image printing system according to claim 1 or 2,
The material storage means of the service base device stores usable conditions for permitting editing by the image composition means of the mobile terminal device in association with the original material image,
The image synthesizing unit of the portable terminal device generates a synthesized image by synthesizing the original material image received from the service base device by the portable terminal communication unit while the usable condition is satisfied. Characteristic composite image printing system. A service base communication means for performing short-range data communication with the mobile terminal device;
Material storage means for storing an original material image usable for image editing by the portable terminal device;
Image printing means for printing an image;
A service base device comprising:
The service base communication means transmits the original material image stored in the material storage means to the mobile terminal device,
The image printing unit prints an original material image edited by the mobile terminal device received from the mobile terminal device by the service base communication unit.
Service base equipment. A portable terminal device having a short-range data communication function, an imaging function, and an image composition function; and at least one service base device having a short-range data communication function, an original material image providing function for image composition, and an image printing function; A combined image print service providing method for providing an image combined print service to a user of the mobile terminal device using a combination thereof,
A first step of providing the original material image from the service base device to the mobile terminal device by short-range data communication, on condition that payment of a charge for providing the original material image to the mobile terminal device; ,
The mobile terminal device generates a composite image by combining an image collected or created using an imaging function or other functions of the mobile terminal device and the original material image provided from the service base device. A second step of:
A third step in which the portable terminal transmits the composite image to the service base device by short-range data communication;
A fourth step of printing the composite image using the image printing function provided in the service base device, on condition that a fee is paid for using the image print function of the service base device;
A method for providing a composite image printing service. The composite image printing service providing method according to claim 5,
In the first step, the original material image provided from the service base device to the mobile terminal is attached with a usable condition for permitting editing by the mobile terminal device,
A composite image printing service providing method, wherein a composite image is generated using the original material image while the usable condition is satisfied in the second step.

Images