JP2007158615A - Print order system and print order method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a technology of easily searching an order of a print, the communication of image data of which is interrupted, in the case of communication reconnection. <P>SOLUTION: A print order system disclosed herein includes: an input device 2 for transmitting an order of recording of image data to a recording medium; and a receiving device 1A for receiving the order of the recording of the image data to the recording medium on the basis of the order received from the input device 2, the input device 2 includes: a storage section 34 for storing print processing information whereby ordered print object image data and the number of the prints of the ordered print object image data are cross-referenced; and a communication section 36 for transmitting separate entity identification information for particularizing the print processing information and the input device 2, and the receiving device 1A includes: a communication section 17; and an HDD 13 that sets print processing state information to an interruption state when the communication between the communication section 17 and the input device 2 is interrupted and stores the print processing state information in cross reference with the separate entity identification information, the print processing information, and the ordered print object image data, which are received before the interruption. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a print ordering system and a print ordering method.

  In recent years, digital cameras and mobile phones equipped with digital cameras are rapidly spreading. In the case of printing an image taken with such a photographing apparatus typified by a digital camera with high quality, image data is transmitted to a print destination using a wireless communication network such as a mobile phone. A method of transmitting image data captured by the image capturing apparatus to a print destination is realized by performing wireless communication with a receiving unit provided in a printer store or the like.

  In addition, the development of network technologies such as the Internet has made it possible to connect a digital camera to a PC (Personal Computer) via a network and transmit image data to a server on the network. Utilizing such network technology, recording of image data generated by the photographing apparatus onto a recording medium such as a photographic print or CD-R (hereinafter, recording on this recording medium is collectively referred to as “print”). There is a system for ordering (ordering) a print order from an order receiving server of a print store via the Internet or the like (hereinafter, ordering a print is referred to as “print order”).

  In recent years, a photographing apparatus represented by a digital camera has a large memory capacity and can store a large amount of image data in a memory. Therefore, when transferring a large amount of stored image data, it is used for image data communication. It takes a long time. In this case, there is a possibility of radio interference or going out of the communication range.

As a method of transmitting image data to the image server of the print shop by wireless communication, when the photographing apparatus enters the communication area of the receiving means, the image data is automatically connected to the image server provided in the receiving means. There is one that starts transmission and interrupts data transmission when it leaves the communication area (see, for example, Patent Document 1).
JP 2004-153515 A

  However, in the technique of Patent Document 1, it is possible to restore communication in a short time in wireless communication, but consider processing of image data when resuming communication interruption for a long time and processing of image data that has not been resumed for a long time. It has not been.

  It is also necessary to consider communication resumption processing due to intentional interruption of communication by the user, interruption of communication due to battery exhaustion, and forgetting recovery operation due to communication interruption.

  An object of the present invention is to retrieve information on a print order in which communication of image data is interrupted with high accuracy when reconnecting communication.

In order to solve the above-described problem, a print ordering system according to claim 1,
A first device for transmitting an order for recording image data on a recording medium;
A second device that is communicatively connected to the first device and accepts an order for recording the image data on a recording medium based on the order received from the first device, the first device comprising:
First storage means for storing print processing information in which the order print target image data and the number of prints of the order print target image data are associated;
First transmission means for transmitting the print processing information, print target image data, and individual identification information for specifying the first device to the second device;
The second device is:
First receiving means for receiving the print processing information, the order print target image data, and the individual identification information from the first device;
Setting means for setting print processing state information indicating a print state to a suspended state when communication with the first device is suspended;
Second storage means for storing the print processing state information in association with the individual identification information received before interruption, the print processing information, and the order print target image data;
It is characterized by providing.

The invention according to claim 2 is the print ordering system according to claim 1,
When the individual identification information and the print processing information are received after the communication is interrupted, the communication is resumed by comparing the individual identification information received before the communication is interrupted with the individual identification information received after the communication is interrupted. Identifying means for identifying the device;
Search means for searching for the print processing status information set to suspension from the second storage means after identifying the first device that has resumed communication;
It is characterized by providing.

The invention according to claim 3 is the print ordering system according to claim 2,
After the search, an input unit that receives an instruction to resume reception of print processing information corresponding to the print processing state information is provided. When the instruction to restart reception of the print processing information is input by the input unit, Only the search is performed.

The invention according to claim 4 is the print ordering system according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The individual identification information includes at least one of a file name of print processing information, a date of a print processing information file, a date of image data, and various types of information included in a header of image data.

The invention according to claim 5 is the print ordering system according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
The setting means sets an interruption state in the print processing state information when the interruption instruction of the first device or communication is interrupted for a predetermined time or more.

The invention according to claim 6 is the print ordering system according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
The setting means does not set a suspended state in the print processing state information when reception of the print processing information and the individual identification information is not completed.

The invention according to claim 7 is the print ordering system according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
The first receiving means is characterized in that, when communication is interrupted, the received image data whose reception has been completed is not re-received when communication is resumed.

The invention according to claim 8 is the print ordering system according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
The first receiving means is characterized in that when communication is resumed, the reception of incomplete received image data that has not been received at the time of interruption is resumed.

The invention according to claim 9 is the print ordering system according to any one of claims 1 to 8,
The image processing apparatus includes a prohibiting unit that prohibits browsing and copying of the order print target image data stored in the second storage unit.

A tenth aspect of the present invention is the print ordering system according to any one of the first to ninth aspects,
The second device is:
If the resumption of the reception of the print processing information is not resumed within a predetermined time, it includes a non-resumable setting means for setting the print order to be unresumable.

The invention according to claim 11 is the print ordering system according to any one of claims 1 to 10,
The second device is:
It is characterized in that it includes a notification means for notifying the owner of the first device that has been interrupted when the resumption of reception of the print processing information is not resumed within a predetermined time.

The invention according to claim 12 is the print ordering system according to claim 1,
The first device is:
A second transmission means for transmitting a communication connection change request by a user;
The second device is:
Second receiving means for receiving a communication connection change request by a user;
Interruption means for interrupting communication connection;
Standby means for waiting for connection of the first device after interrupting communication connection;
Communication restarting means for restarting communication after detecting the connection of the first device by the standby means;
It is characterized by providing.

The invention according to claim 13 is the print ordering method,
With the first device
A first storage step of storing print processing information in which the order print target image data and the number of prints of the order print target image data are associated;
A first transmission step of transmitting the print processing information, order print target image data, and individual identification information for specifying the first device to the second device;
With the second device
A first receiving step of receiving the print processing information, the order print target image data and the individual identification information from the first device;
A setting step of setting transmission of print processing state information indicating a print state to an interrupted state when communication with the first device is interrupted;
A second storage step of storing the print processing state information in association with the individual identification information received before interruption, the print processing information, and the print target image data;
It is characterized by including.

The invention according to claim 14 is the print ordering method according to claim 13,
When the individual identification information and the print processing information are received after the communication is interrupted, the communication is resumed by comparing the individual identification information received before the communication is interrupted with the individual identification information received after the communication is interrupted. A specific process for identifying the device;
A search step of searching for the print processing status information set to be suspended from the second storage step after identifying the first device that has resumed communication;
It is characterized by including.

The invention according to claim 15 is the print ordering method according to claim 14,
An input step of receiving an instruction to resume receiving print processing information corresponding to the print processing status information after the search;
In the search step, the search is performed only when an instruction to resume reception of the print processing information is input in the input step.

The invention according to claim 16 is the print ordering method according to any one of claims 13 to 15,
The individual identification information includes at least one of a file name of print processing information, a date of a print processing information file, a date of image data, and various types of information included in a header of image data.

The invention according to claim 17 is the print ordering method according to any one of claims 13 to 16,
The setting step is characterized in that when the first device is instructed to be interrupted or communication is interrupted for a predetermined time or more, the print processing status information is set to be interrupted.

The invention according to claim 18 is the print ordering method according to any one of claims 13 to 17,
The setting step is characterized in that no interruption is set in the print processing status information when reception of the print processing information and the individual identification information is not completed.

The invention according to claim 19 is the print ordering method according to any one of claims 13 to 18,
The first receiving step is characterized in that when communication is interrupted, received image data whose reception has been completed is not re-received when communication is resumed.

The invention according to claim 20 is the print ordering method according to any one of claims 13 to 18,
The first reception step is characterized in that when communication is resumed, reception of incomplete received image data that has not been received at the time of interruption is resumed.

The invention according to claim 21 is the print ordering method according to any one of claims 13 to 20,
The method includes a prohibiting step of prohibiting browsing and copying of the order print target image data stored in the second storing step.

The invention according to claim 22 is the print ordering method according to any one of claims 13 to 21,
The second device is:
When the resumption of the reception of the print processing information is not resumed within a predetermined time, it includes a non-resumable setting step for setting the print order to be non-resumable.

The invention according to claim 23 is the print ordering method according to any one of claims 13 to 22,
The second device is:
The method includes a notification step of notifying the owner of the interrupted first device when the resumption of reception of the print processing information is not resumed within a predetermined time.

The invention according to claim 24 is the print ordering method according to claim 13,
With the first device,
A second transmission step of transmitting a communication connection change request by a user;
With the second device,
A second receiving step of receiving a communication connection change request by a user;
An interruption process for interrupting the communication connection;
A standby step of waiting for connection of the first device after interrupting communication connection;
A communication resumption step of resuming communication after detecting the connection of the first device by the standby step;
It is characterized by including.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, when reconnection is made after communication between the first device and the second device is interrupted, the first device is identified based on the individual identification information, By retrieving the print processing status information, it is possible to retrieve the suspended print order with high accuracy.

  Further, according to the invention described in claim 2, it is possible to specify the first device with high accuracy by comparing the individual identification information received before the communication interruption and the individual identification information received after the communication interruption. Become.

  According to the third aspect of the present invention, it is possible to perform an intentional search by the user by performing a search only when an instruction to resume reception of print processing information is input by the input unit.

  Further, according to the invention described in claim 4, it is possible to specify the first device with high accuracy by using the individual identification information.

  According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, when communication is interrupted for a predetermined time or longer, the interrupt status is set in the print processing status information. It is possible to search for an interrupted print order.

  According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, when the reception of the print processing information and the individual identification information is not completed, the order information that has not been received is not set by not setting the interruption status in the print processing status information. Can be deleted.

  According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, useless reception operation can be omitted by not re-receiving received image data that has been received when communication is resumed.

  According to the eighth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to receive the incomplete image data whose communication has been interrupted from the middle of reception.

  According to the ninth aspect of the invention, personal information such as image data can be protected by prohibiting browsing and copying of the image data.

  According to the tenth aspect of the present invention, when the reception of print processing information is not resumed within a predetermined time, useless data can be omitted.

  According to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, if the resumption of the print processing information is not resumed within a predetermined time, the user can know the suspended print information that has not been resumed.

  According to the invention described in claim 12, the print order can be interrupted and resumed by the user's intention.

  According to the invention of claim 13, when reconnection is made after the communication between the first device and the second device is interrupted, the first device is identified based on the individual identification information, and the interruption is performed. By searching the print processing status information of the status, it is possible to search with high accuracy for the print order being suspended.

  In addition, according to the invention described in claim 14, it is possible to specify the first device with high accuracy by comparing the individual identification information received before the communication interruption and the individual identification information received after the communication interruption. Become.

  According to the fifteenth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to perform an intentional search by the user by performing a search only when an instruction to resume reception of print processing information is input in the input step.

  According to the invention described in claim 16, it is possible to specify the first device with high accuracy by using the individual identification information.

  According to the invention described in claim 17, when communication is interrupted for a predetermined time or more, the interrupt status is set in the print processing status information, so that when communication is interrupted for a long period of time, when communication is resumed, It is possible to search for an interrupted print order.

  According to the eighteenth aspect of the present invention, when the reception of the print processing information and the individual identification information is not completed, the order information that has not been received is not set by not setting the interruption status in the print processing status information. Can be deleted.

  According to the nineteenth aspect of the invention, useless reception operation can be omitted by not re-receiving received image data that has been received when communication is resumed.

  In addition, according to the twentieth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to receive incompletely interrupted incomplete image data during reception.

  According to the twenty-first aspect of the present invention, personal information such as image data can be protected by prohibiting browsing and copying of the image data.

  According to the twenty-second aspect of the present invention, useless data can be omitted when the reception of print processing information is not resumed within a predetermined time.

  According to the twenty-third aspect of the present invention, when the reception restart of the print processing information is not resumed within a predetermined time, the user can know the suspended print information that has not been resumed.

  According to the invention described in claim 24, it is possible to suspend and resume a print order according to the user's intention.

  DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, first to third embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the scope of the invention is not limited to the illustrated examples.

(First embodiment)
A first embodiment according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. First, the device configuration of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 1 shows a print ordering system 100 according to this embodiment. FIG. 2 shows the internal configuration of the receiving device 1A. FIG. 3 shows the internal configuration of the input device 2.

  A print ordering system 100 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. The print ordering system 100 is a system that prints image data received from an input device 2 as a first device by a receiving device 1 as a second device. The print ordering system 100 includes a receiving device 1 and an input device 2. The receiving device 1 is composed of one of the receiving device 1A and the receiving device 1B.

  The receiving device 1A is a photo order reception machine provided in a print specialty store. The photo order receiving machine is provided with a separate printer 1C. The receiving device 1B is a household printer. The input device 2 is a digital camera. The apparatus configuration of the present embodiment will be described in the case where the receiving device 1 is a photo order receiving machine. As shown in FIG. 2, the receiving device 1 </ b> A includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 10, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 11, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 12 as setting means, specifying means, searching means, and non-resumable setting means. HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 13 as second storage means, touch panel 14 as input means, card I / O (Input / Output) 15, card slot 16, first receiving means, first receiving means, 2 receiving means, interrupting means, standby means, communication resuming means 17 as a communication restarting means, display controller 18, monitor 19 as notifying means, print controller 20, printer 1C, cash controller 22, and depositing device 23, a withdrawal device 24, an LED (Light Emitting Diode) 25, and a non-contact I used in the case of depositing or the like which is shown in FIG. 1 but omitted in FIG. Configured with a reader and a magnetic card reader, a.

  The CPU 10 centrally controls each unit of the receiving device. The CPU 10 expands a program specified from the system program and various application programs stored in the ROM 11 in the RAM 12 and executes various processes in cooperation with the program expanded in the RAM 12. The CPU 10 and various programs function in cooperation. The ROM 11 stores a first communication interruption program and a first print order retrieval program.

  When the communication between the input device 2 and the receiving device 1A is interrupted in cooperation with a first communication interruption program described later, the CPU 10 changes the print processing state information to interruption.

  Further, the CPU 10 searches for a print order whose print processing status information is interrupted when communication between the input device 2 and the receiving device 1A is reconnected in cooperation with a print order search program described later.

  The ROM 11 is a read-only storage medium and stores various programs executed by the CPU 10 and various data.

  The RAM 12 is a volatile memory, and forms a work area for temporarily storing various programs to be executed and data related to these various programs.

  The HDD 13 stores various programs and various data. In particular, the HDD 13 stores print order information, pudding process information, individual identification information, print process state information, image data, and the like.

  The touch panel 14 is a resistive film type or optical type touch panel, and accepts and outputs to the CPU 10 user touch input information such as selection and execution of various functions.

  The card slot 16 is detachably mounted with a memory card or the like. Data is input / output between the memory card inserted into the card slot 16 and the CPU 10 via a card I / O (Input / Output) 15. In addition, depositing and changing processing is performed via the cash controller 22 by the depositing device 23 and the dispensing device 24 having a depositing port.

  The communication unit 17 includes an access point, a LAN card, and the like, and transmits / receives information to / from external devices including the connected input device 2. The communication protocol is realized by a wireless transmission method such as PTP / IP (Picture Transfer Protocol / Internet Protocol) or PictBridge. By adopting this PTP / IP or PictBridge, the image data stored in the input device 2 can be directly read without connecting the input device 2 to the PC or removing the external memory and reading the data with a personal computer. Can be transmitted to the receiving device 1A.

  The monitor 19 is composed of an LCD, a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) or the like, and performs screen display according to a display signal from the CPU 10 via the display controller 18.

  The printer 1C prints an image based on the image data on a recording sheet via the print controller 20. The connection between the printer 21 and the receiving device 1A may be either wired or wireless, and the printer 21 may be integrated with the receiving device 1A or may be separate. In this embodiment, it will be described as a separate type.

  The LED 25 notifies the communication state between the receiving device 1A and the input device 2, the error of the receiving device 1A, and the like by a light emitting diode.

  Next, the configuration of the input device 2 will be described with reference to FIG. The input device 2 includes a CPU 31, a ROM 32, a RAM 33, a storage unit 34 as a first storage unit, an input unit 35, a first transmission unit, a communication unit 36 as a second transmission unit, and an imaging. A unit 37 and a display unit 38 are provided.

  The CPU 31 centrally controls each unit of the input device 2. The CPU 31 expands a program designated from the system program and various application programs stored in the ROM 32 in the RAM 33 and executes various processes in cooperation with the program expanded in the RAM 33.

  The storage unit 34 includes a readable / writable flash memory, a hard disk, and the like, stores print target image data, print processing information, and the like, and reads / writes data from / to an external memory.

  The input unit 35 is an input device that includes a key group necessary for executing programs such as cursor keys, shutter keys, and various buttons, and inputting various information, and sends operation signals of keys pressed by the user to the CPU 31. Output.

  The communication unit 36 includes wireless communication, an adapter, and the like, and transmits / receives information to / from the receiving device 1A. The communication protocol is realized by a wireless transmission method such as PTP / IP (Picture Transfer Protocol / Internet Protocol) or PictBridge.

  The imaging unit 37 includes an imaging lens, an imaging element such as a charge coupled device (CCD) or a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS), a timing generator, and the like.

  The display unit 38 is configured by a backlit color LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or ELD (Electronic Luminescent Display), and displays various information of the input device 2, a photographed image, and the like. For example, at the time of shooting, as an electronic viewfinder, an image of the subject being shot is displayed as a moving image (a so-called viewfinder image is displayed), or an image at the moment when the shutter is released is displayed.

  The print processing information is information used by the receiving device 1A when printing. The print processing information is configured by a data format such as DPOF (Digital Print Order Format), for example, and includes image size, file name, trimming setting, device information, date and time, number of images for printing, print size, Includes printing methods. The number of sheets, the print size, and the print method for each image are selected by the user, and other information is set by the CPU 10.

  The individual identification information is information for specifying the input device 2. For example, the file name of the print processing information, the date of the print processing information file, the date of the image data, various information included in the header of the image data, It is composed of at least one piece of information such as MAC (Media Access Control) address which is unique ID information.

  The print processing state information is information representing the communication state between the receiving device 1A and the input device 2 when printing is performed. After the communication between the receiving device 1A and the input device 2 is disconnected and a predetermined time has elapsed, the print processing status information is changed to interruption and stored in the HDD 13.

  Next, the operation of the print ordering system when the communication between the receiving device 1A and the input device 2 is interrupted and when it is interrupted will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 4 shows the flow of data communication between the receiving device 1A and the input device 2, and FIG. 5 shows the data structure of an interrupted print order stored in the receiving device 1A.

  With reference to FIG. 4, the flow of data communication between the receiving device 1A and the input device 2 will be described. First, when the input device 2 enters a range where wireless communication with a wireless LAN port (not shown) is possible, the input device 2 establishes a communication connection with the receiving device 1A connected to an access point (not shown) via the access point, and the network. Is formed (step S41).

  The receiving device 1A receives print processing information, individual identification information, and image data to be printed from the input device 2 (step S42), and saves them in the HDD 13 of the receiving device 1A or a storage device connected to the receiving device 1A (not shown). To do.

  The stored print processing information is associated with the print processing status information. The association is performed, for example, by designating a storage location (path) of a file indicating print processing information as a storage location (path) of a folder indicating print processing status information.

  Here, when the battery of the input device 2 runs out, or the user goes out of the service area where wireless communication is possible, the reception device 1A is connected to the receiving device 1A due to deterioration of the radio wave environment due to an obstacle or noise, device failure, intentional communication interruption by the user, etc. The communication connection of the input device 2 is disconnected (step S43).

  Thereafter, when the communication between the receiving device 1A and the input device 2 is reconnected (step S44), the receiving device 1A issues a reception ID when receiving the communication. By issuing the reception ID, the search speed for searching for an interrupted print order (interrupted print order) can be improved.

  After step S44, the receiving device 1A receives the print processing information (step S45). At this time, if reception of the print processing information fails and reconnection is impossible, the communication is terminated. The print processing information in the middle of reception is unnecessary and is deleted. In addition, when print processing information being received is stored in a temporary storage area and stored in an official storage location after the end of communication, the temporary storage area may be deleted when the operation of the receiving device 1A is completed.

  Next, a data structure stored in the HDD 13 of the receiving device 1A will be described with reference to FIG. Data stored in the HDD 13 of the receiving device includes an interruption date 51 indicating the date and time when communication was interrupted, an interruption folder 52 in which information at the time of communication interruption is stored, reception ID 53, individual identification information 54, print processing information 55, image data Is the saved image folder 56. These data are stored in the HDD 13 in an associated state.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 6, a change with time from the time of communication interruption will be described. FIG. 6 shows the passage of time since the communication between the receiving device 1A and the input device 2 was interrupted.

  Several minutes to several tens of minutes after the communication between the receiving device 1A and the input device 2 is interrupted is a retry period in which the communication can be automatically restored. When the retry period ends, it becomes a communication resumption acceptance period. During this period, the user can restart communication by performing a communication restart operation from the receiving device 1A.

  When the expiration of the period for storing the print processing information and the image data received before the interruption of communication after the predetermined time has passed in the receiving device 1A (for example, one month from the interruption of communication), the user or the operator of the receiving device 1A is notified. Notification is given for warning (for example, one week before the deadline). Here, the notification to the operator is displayed on the monitor 19 of the receiving device 1A. The notification to the user of the input device 2 is notified to a device owned by the owner of the input device 2 (for example, notification to a mobile phone that can be connected to the Internet by e-mail). If the suspended print order is not resumed within the time limit, the print processing information and image data stored in the receiving device 1A are deleted to delete unnecessary data from the HDD 13. At this time, the input device 2 is notified that the time limit has passed.

  If the reception of the print processing information or the image data is completed when the communication is interrupted, the print processing information and the image data received in the HDD 13 of the receiving device are stored in the HDD 13 of the receiving device 1A. Therefore, received image data is not re-received when communication is resumed. For image data being received, the image data may be received from the input device 2 again.

  In order to protect the information of the image data, the operator operates the receiving device 1A to freely view or copy the received image data stored in the receiving device 1A and the image data being received. It is not possible.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 7 to FIG. 9, an operation executed by the receiving device 1A when communication is interrupted and when communication is resumed will be described. FIG. 7 shows the flow of the first communication interruption process. FIG. 8 shows the flow of the first print order search process. FIG. 9 shows a screen displayed as a thumbnail.

  With reference to FIG. 7, the first communication interruption process executed by the receiving device 1A when communication is interrupted will be described. The first communication interruption process is a process for changing the print processing state information to interruption when communication between the receiving device 1A and the input device 2 is interrupted. Here, when the communication between the receiving device 1A and the input device 2 is interrupted, the battery of the input device 2 runs out, when the user goes out of the area where wireless communication is possible, the deterioration of the radio wave environment due to an obstacle or noise, the device This is a case where the communication is cut off due to a failure of the device.

  First, it is determined whether or not a signal of print processing information has been received from the input device 2 in the receiving device 1A (step S101). If it is determined that a signal has been received (step S101; YES), a reception process is performed (step S110). After the reception process, it is determined whether or not the reception ends (step S111). If the reception is not completed (step S111; NO), the process proceeds to step S101. When the reception ends (step S111; YES), the first communication interruption process ends. Thereafter, if there is a print instruction, printing is performed. If it is determined that no signal has been received (step S101; NO), the receiving device 1A waits for a signal from the input device 2 for a certain time (0 seconds or more), thereby determining whether or not a reception waiting timeout occurs. Determination is made (step S102).

  During this restart standby, a display of a LED 25 or a message that can be determined to be standby may be displayed on the screen. For example, when the LED 25 is displayed, it may be displayed blinking when automatic resumption is possible, orange when reconnection is necessary, and red when transmission of print processing information fails. Hereinafter, the case of LED display will be described.

  In step S102, when a reception waiting timeout does not occur (step S102: NO), the process proceeds to step S101. When a reception waiting timeout has occurred (step S102: YES), an interruption waiting LED pattern is set in the LED 25 (step S103). Then, calculation of a reception waiting timeout is started (step S104).

  After execution of step S104, it is determined whether or not the communication between the receiving device 1A and the input device 2 has been restored (step S105). When communication with the input device 2 is restored (step S105; YES), the process proceeds to step 110. If the communication with the input device 2 is not restored (step S105; NO), the receiving device 1A waits for a signal from the input device 2 for a certain time (0 seconds or more), thereby determining whether or not a certain time has elapsed. (Step S106).

  In step S106, when the fixed time has not elapsed (step S106; NO), the process proceeds to step S105. When the predetermined time has elapsed (step S106; YES), the normal LED lighting pattern is set in the LED 25 (step S107).

  After execution of step S107, the print processing status information is changed to interruption (step S108). Here, when the reception of the print processing information and the individual identification information is not completed, no interruption is recorded in the print processing status information.

  Then, a communication end process is performed (step S109), and the first communication interruption process ends.

  Next, the first print order search process executed by the receiving device 1A will be described with reference to FIGS. The first print order search process is a process for searching for a print order whose print process status information is interrupted only when the user gives an instruction to resume interruption.

  First, communication is established by instructing the user to resume communication interruption by operating the touch panel 14 of the receiving device 1A (step S121). The receiving device 1A receives from the input device 2 information for specifying a print order (interrupted print order) for which communication has been interrupted in order to search for an interrupted print order (step S122).

  Information for specifying an interrupted print order includes, for example, print processing information (the date of a file included in the print processing information differs for each print order), a folder structure of DCIM (Digital Camera Image), and date of image data Header information, reception ID number, and the like. By referring to a plurality of such information, print processing information for each print order, and individual identification information, it is possible to search for an interrupted print order (step S123). The DCIM folder is a folder created in accordance with a rule concerning an image storage folder of a DCF (Design Rule for Camera File system). The manufacturer name of the input device 2 is recorded in the DCF image storage folder.

  Of the suspended print orders whose print processing status information is suspended, it is determined whether or not the receiving device 1A has a print order having individual identification information that matches the currently connected input device 2 (step S124). . Here, if there is no matching print order (step S124; NO), a new print order is accepted (step S136).

  When there is a print order (match print order) that matches the currently connected receiving device 1A (step S124; YES), the existing printing order is automatically continued by the receiving device 1A. Alternatively, whether or not to continue the existing print order may be displayed on the display screen of the monitor 19 of the receiving device 1A and left to the user's judgment. Hereinafter, a case where the user selects will be described.

  The user selects whether the matching print order is a new print order (new print order) or a print order that already exists in the receiving device 1A (existing print order) (step S125). When a new print order is selected by the user (step S125; new print order), the storage period of the existing print order existing in the receiving device 1A is displayed on the monitor 19 (step S135). For example, as shown in FIG. 6, when the storage period is one week later, a warning is displayed on the monitor 19. Thereafter, a new print order is accepted (step S136). When the existing print order is selected by the user (step S125; existing print order), the existing print order is continued.

  Here, there is a case where the image data stored in the receiving device 1 </ b> A has been changed as a result of the user performing an editing operation on the image data corresponding to the existing print order. In order to confirm the change of the image data, the receiving device 1A receives the print processing information corresponding to the existing print order from the input device 2. Then, it is confirmed whether the received print processing information matches the previously received print processing information stored in the receiving device 1A. The confirmation is performed on the screen displayed on the monitor 19 of the receiving device 1A by the user. At this time, as shown in FIG. 9, the image data F is displayed as a thumbnail on the monitor 19 in a form separated by another tab, and the selection content is selected by the user (step S127).

  The thumbnail display is a list of received images in which only the print processing information of the receiving device 1A is changed (step S128), an existing print order in which the change processing information is written in the print processing information of the receiving device 1A and the input device 2, and still images are displayed. A list of changed images that have not been received (step S129) and a new print order image list (step S130) in which only the print processing information of the input device 2 has a change description are classified.

  The print processing information match determination can be performed based on a print process information file path match determination, image data header match determination registered in the print order information, or a manufacturer note that is a standard for image files. Since the input device 2 is difficult to edit image data in a short time, the print processing information match determination is not performed if the time until the time communication restart is extremely short (for example, within one hour). May be.

  As a classification method on the display in FIG. 9, it is possible to color-code in one screen, add a mark, or change the display tone of a printed image to a different tone by another control instruction.

  When the user selects an image to be printed, a selection screen is accepted (step S131). When the selection screen operation is finished (step S132; YES), a confirmation screen is displayed on the monitor 19 (step S133). When the selection screen operation is not terminated (step S132; NO), the process proceeds to step S126. After execution of step S133, the process proceeds to a printing operation (step S134), and the first print order search process is completed.

  In addition, after the execution of step S124, the receiving device 1A may automatically perform printing (step S134) without performing a screen operation of the receiving device 1A. At this time, the receiving device 1A automatically prints the sum of the received image data and the previously received image data.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, when reconnection is made after communication between the receiving device 1A and the input device 2 is interrupted, the input device 2 is identified based on the individual identification information of the input device 2, and By retrieving the print processing status information, it is possible to retrieve the suspended print order with high accuracy.

  In addition, by performing a search only when an instruction to resume reception of print processing information is input by a user's operation on the touch panel 14, a user's intentional search can be performed.

  Further, by comparing the individual identification information of the input device 2 received before the communication interruption and the individual identification information of the input device 2 received after the communication interruption, the input device 2 can be identified with high accuracy.

  Further, by using the individual identification information for specifying the input device 2, it is possible to specify the input device 2 with high accuracy.

  In addition, when the communication between the receiving device 1A and the input device 2 is interrupted for a predetermined time or more, the interrupt status is set in the print processing status information. Search for print orders becomes possible.

  In addition, when the receiving device 1A does not complete the reception of the print processing information and the individual identification information, it is possible to delete the print order that has not been received by not setting the interruption state in the print processing state information. .

  Further, in the receiving device 1A, by not receiving the received image data that has been received again when communication is resumed, useless reception operation can be omitted.

  Further, it is possible to receive incomplete image data that has not been completely interrupted during the communication of the image data during the resumption of communication.

  Further, by prohibiting browsing and copying of image data, personal information such as image data can be protected.

  In addition, when the resumption of print processing information reception is not resumed within a predetermined time, useless data that has not been resumed from the HDD 13 can be omitted.

  Further, when the reception restart of the print processing information is not restarted within a predetermined time, the user can know an interrupted print order that has not been restarted.

  Further, since the image data is displayed in a state classified on the monitor of the receiving device 1A based on the change information of the print processing information, even when the image data is changed, the user can display the changed image data. It is easy to know.

  Further, since the receiving device 1A and the printer 1C are separate, automatic printing is possible when the user does not operate the receiving device 1A. In this case, the user does not need to stay in front of the receiving device 1A during image data transmission, and can freely move away from the receiving device 1A.

  Further, by making the receiving device 1A and the printer 1C separate from each other, the output print is not touched by eyes other than the clerk of the print shop and is not stolen, so that the print can be protected.

(Second Embodiment)
A second embodiment according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 10 shows the flow of the second communication interruption process.

  The apparatus configuration of this embodiment uses the print ordering system 100 as in the first embodiment, and the differences will be mainly described.

  In the receiving device 1 </ b> A, the second communication interruption program is recorded in the ROM 11.

  With reference to FIG. 10, the second communication interruption process executed by the receiving device 1A in the present embodiment will be described. The second communication interruption process is a process for changing the print processing status information to interruption according to a user's intentional communication change request.

  After the user is instructed to suspend communication by operating the input key of the input device 2, etc., the suspend instruction information is transmitted to the receiving device 1A, and the receiving device 1A determines whether or not to accept the suspend request signal (step S201). ). If the receiving device 1A does not accept the interruption request signal (step S201; NO), a reception process is performed (step S209). After the reception process, the second communication interruption process ends.

  When the receiving device 1A receives the interruption request signal (step S201; YES), the received image list (image list) is transmitted from the receiving device 1A to the input device 2 (step S202). The image list data is received by the input device 2 (step S203), and the user can check the received image list on the display unit 38 of the input device 2, and the signal type is determined from the stop signal, the stop signal, and the print instruction signal. Selected (step S204).

  If the user determines not to print the image list, a stop signal is transmitted from the input device 2, and the stop signal is received by the receiving device 1A. After the stop signal is received by the receiving device 1A, the received print processing information and image data are discarded (step S205). Then, the receiving device 1A performs a communication end process with the input device 2 (step S208).

  When it is determined by the user that communication between the input device 2 and the receiving device 1A is to be interrupted, an interrupt signal is transmitted from the input device 2, and the interrupt signal is received by the receiving device 1A. After the interruption signal is received by the receiving device 1A, an interruption process is performed to change the print process status information associated with the print process information to an interruption (step S206). Then, a communication end process is performed (step S208).

  When the user determines to print the image list, the input device 2 transmits a print designation instruction and a print execution instruction for an image to be printed to the receiving device 1A, and the receiving device 1A receives the print designation instruction and the print execution instruction. Is done. After the receiving device 1A receives the print designation instruction and the print execution instruction, the print execution instruction is performed (step S207). Thereafter, if there is a print execution instruction, printing is performed. Then, a communication end process is performed (step S208).

  After execution of step S208, the second communication interruption program ends.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to suspend and resume a print order according to the user's intention.

(Third embodiment)
A third embodiment according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 11 shows the apparatus configuration of this embodiment, and FIG. 12 shows the flow of the third communication interruption program. FIG. 13 shows the flow of the second print order search process.

  The apparatus configuration of this embodiment uses the print ordering system 100 as in the first embodiment, and the differences will be mainly described.

  FIG. 11 shows a configuration when the receiving device 1 of the print ordering system 100 is a receiving device 1B as a printer. The receiving device 1B includes a CPU 301, a ROM 302, a RAM 303, an LED 304, a card I / O 305, a card slot 306, a communication unit 307, a print controller 308, a print creation device 309, and a USB 310, as shown in FIG. However, the paper feed unit and the paper discharge unit which are omitted in FIG. 11 are provided. In the following, parts different from FIG. 2 will be mainly described.

  The CPU 301 centrally controls each unit of the receiving device 1B. The CPU 301 expands a program designated from the system program and various application programs stored in the ROM 302 to the RAM 303 and executes various processes in cooperation with the program expanded in the RAM 303. The CPU 301 and various programs function in cooperation. The ROM 302 stores a third communication interruption program.

  When the communication between the print creation apparatus 309 and the input device 2 is cut off in cooperation with a third communication interruption program described later, the CPU 301 changes the print processing state information to interruption.

  Further, the CPU 301 searches for a print order whose print processing status information is interrupted in cooperation with a second print order search program described later.

  The print creation apparatus 309 prints an image based on the image data on a recording sheet via the print controller 308. Note that the print controller 308 may control the conveyance of the recording paper and the printing operation on the recording paper, or may control the image transmitted to the connected print creating apparatus. Further, the USB 310 enables communication with the input device 2.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 12, the third communication interruption process executed by the receiving device 1B will be described. The third communication interruption process is a process for changing the print processing status information to interruption when communication between the receiving device 1B and the input device 2 is interrupted.

  Steps S311, S312 and S313 in FIG. 12 are the same as steps S101, S102 and S103 in FIG. After setting the interruption waiting LED in step S313, it is determined whether or not communication between the receiving device 1B and the input device 2 can be restored (step S314).

  When the communication of the receiving device 1B is restored (step S314; YES), the process proceeds to a reception process (step S317). If the communication of the printer is not restored (step S314; NO), the printer 21 waits for a signal from the input device 2 for a certain time (0 seconds or more), thereby determining whether or not a certain time has elapsed. (Step S315). When the fixed time has not elapsed (step S315; NO), the process proceeds to step S314. When the predetermined time has elapsed (step S315; YES), the print processing status information is changed to interruption, and the devices other than the communication unit 107 of the receiving device 1B are automatically turned off (step S306).

  During auto-off, print processing information, print processing status information, individual identification information, image data, and the like are stored in the RAM 103 of the receiving device 1B, so the RAM 103 remains energized. Alternatively, individual identification information required when communication is resumed and position information of the input device 2 where the print order information is interrupted may be stored in a non-illustrated nonvolatile memory. Further, the progress management of the print order may be recorded in the print processing information of the received print order or may be recorded in the header of the received image data.

  After executing step S316, the process proceeds to step S314. At this time, it is preferable to display the standby state by the lighting color or pattern of the LED. Then, when the communication is resumed after the transition to step S314 (step S314; YES), the auto-off is canceled. After execution of step S317, the third communication interruption process ends.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 13, the second print order search process executed by the receiving device 1B when communication is resumed will be described. The second print print order search process is a process of searching for a print order whose print process status information is interrupted only when the user gives an instruction to resume interruption.

  Steps S321, S322, S323, and S324 are the same as Steps S111, S112, S113, and S114 in FIG. After the execution of step S324, if there is no matching print order (step S324; NO), a new print order is accepted (step S327).

  If there is a matching print order (step S324; YES), identification information of the received image is transmitted from the receiving device 1B to the input device 2, and an image is selected by the user on the screen of the input device 2 to select the image. Information is transmitted from the input device 2 to the receiving device 1B (step S325). The user can select and confirm an image to be printed by referring to the screen. After confirmation, reception is resumed from the middle of the image data interrupted due to communication interruption, and the process proceeds to printing (step S327). Then, the second interrupted print order search process ends.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, when a home printer or the like reconnects after communication with the input device 2 is interrupted, the input device 2 is identified based on the individual identification information, and the suspended print By retrieving the processing status information, it is possible to easily retrieve a suspended print order with high accuracy.

  The description in the above embodiment is an example of the print ordering system and the print ordering method according to the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to this.

  For example, the receiving device 1 is not limited to a photo order acceptance machine or a home printer, but may be a Web image storage server, a print server, or the like. The input device 2 is not limited to a digital camera, and may be an electronic notebook, a mobile phone, a PC, a TV, a portable game machine, or the like.

  Communication with the input device 2 includes wireless communication such as Bluetooth, LAN (Local Area Network), infrared, wired communication such as USB (Universal Serial Bus), IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers) 1394, memory card It is good also as connecting by attachment or detachment etc.

  In the above embodiment, the receiving device 1 is configured to be connected to a single input device 2, but may be configured to be simultaneously connected to a plurality of input devices 2.

  In addition, the receiving device 1A is configured to display the LED while waiting for the communication with the input device 2 to resume communication. However, the receiving device 1A may be configured to display a message on the screen of the input device 2. And the communication state may be displayed on the input device side when communication is interrupted.

  In addition, the communication establishment / interruption method between the receiving device 1 and the input device 2 may be performed according to each communication method.

  The printing operation procedure for the printer and the operation procedure for the photo print accepting machine may be performed in accordance with the operation of a commercially available device.

  Further, the detailed configuration and detailed operation of the receiving device 1 and the input device 2 in the above embodiment can be changed as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a print ordering system system 100 according to the present invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of 1 A of receiving devices. 3 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an input device 2. FIG. It is a figure which shows the data communication of 1 A of receiving apparatuses and the data communication of the input device 2. It is a figure which shows the data structure preserve | saved at HDD13 of 1 A of receiving apparatuses. It is a figure which shows the flow of time from the time of communication interruption. It is a flowchart which shows a 1st communication interruption process. 6 is a flowchart illustrating first print order search processing. It is a figure which shows the thumbnail display of image data. It is a flowchart which shows a 2nd communication interruption process. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the receiver 1B. It is a flowchart which shows a 3rd communication interruption process. 10 is a flowchart illustrating second print order search processing.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Print order system 1 Receiving device 1A Receiving device 1B Receiving device 1C Printer 2 Input device 10 CPU
11 ROM
12 RAM
13 HDD
14 Touch panel 15 Card I / O
16 Card slot 17 Communication unit 18 Display controller 19 Monitor 20 Print controller 22 Cash controller 23 Deposit device 24 Deposit device 25 LED
31 CPU
32 ROM
33 RAM
34 storage unit 35 input unit 36 communication unit 37 imaging unit 38 display unit 41 current date and time 42 print processing status information 43 reception ID
44 Individual identification information 45 Print order information 46 Image folder 301 CPU
302 ROM
303 RAM
304 Card I / O
306 Card slot 307 Communication unit 308 Print controller 309 Print creation device

Claims (24)

A first device for transmitting an order for recording image data on a recording medium;
A second device that is communicatively connected to the first device and accepts an order for recording the image data on a recording medium based on the order received from the first device, the first device comprising:
First storage means for storing print processing information in which the order print target image data and the number of prints of the order print target image data are associated;
First transmission means for transmitting the print processing information, print target image data, and individual identification information for specifying the first device to the second device;
The second device is:
First receiving means for receiving the print processing information, the order print target image data, and the individual identification information from the first device;
Setting means for setting print processing state information indicating a print state to a suspended state when communication with the first device is suspended;
Second storage means for storing the print processing state information in association with the individual identification information received before interruption, the print processing information, and the order print target image data;
A print ordering system comprising: When the individual identification information and the print processing information are received after the communication is interrupted, the communication is resumed by comparing the individual identification information received before the communication is interrupted with the individual identification information received after the communication is interrupted. Identifying means for identifying the device;
Search means for searching for the print processing status information set to suspension from the second storage means after identifying the first device that has resumed communication;
The print ordering system according to claim 1, further comprising: After the search, an input unit that receives an instruction to resume reception of print processing information corresponding to the print processing state information is provided. When the instruction to restart reception of the print processing information is input by the input unit, The print ordering system according to claim 2, wherein only the search is performed.   2. The individual identification information includes at least one of a file name of print processing information, a date of a print processing information file, a date of image data, and various types of information included in a header of image data. 4. The print ordering system according to any one of items 1 to 3.   The setting unit sets an interruption state in the print processing state information when an instruction to interrupt the first device or communication is interrupted for a predetermined time or more. The print order system described in the section.   6. The setting unit according to claim 1, wherein when the reception of the print processing information and the individual identification information is not completed, the setting unit does not set an interruption state in the print processing state information. Print ordering system.   7. The print order according to claim 1, wherein when the communication is interrupted, the first receiving unit does not re-receive the received image data that has been received when the communication is resumed. 8. system.   The said 1st receiving means restarts reception of the incomplete reception image data which was incompletely received at the time of interruption, when communication is resumed. Print order system as described.   9. The print ordering system according to claim 1, further comprising a prohibiting unit that prohibits browsing and copying of order print target image data stored in the second storage unit. The second device is:
10. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a non-resumable setting unit configured to set the print order to be unresumable when the resumption of reception of the print processing information is not resumed within a predetermined time. Print order system. The second device is:
11. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a notification unit configured to notify the owner of the interrupted first device when the resumption of reception of the print processing information is not resumed within a predetermined time. The print ordering system according to one item. The first device is:
A second transmission means for transmitting a communication connection change request by a user;
The second device is:
Second receiving means for receiving a communication connection change request by a user;
Interruption means for interrupting communication connection;
Standby means for waiting for connection of the first device after interrupting communication connection;
Communication restarting means for restarting communication after detecting the connection of the first device by the standby means;
The print ordering system according to claim 1, further comprising: With the first device
A first storage step of storing print processing information in which the order print target image data and the number of prints of the order print target image data are associated;
A first transmission step of transmitting the print processing information, order print target image data, and individual identification information for specifying the first device to the second device;
With the second device
A first receiving step of receiving the print processing information, the order print target image data and the individual identification information from the first device;
A setting step of setting transmission of print processing state information indicating a print state to an interrupted state when communication with the first device is interrupted;
A second storage step of storing the print processing state information in association with the individual identification information received before interruption, the print processing information, and the print target image data;
A method for ordering prints. When the individual identification information and the print processing information are received after the communication is interrupted, the communication is resumed by comparing the individual identification information received before the communication is interrupted with the individual identification information received after the communication is interrupted. A specific process for identifying the device;
A search step of searching for the print processing status information set to be suspended from the second storage step after identifying the first device that has resumed communication;
The print ordering method according to claim 13, further comprising: An input step of receiving an instruction to resume receiving print processing information corresponding to the print processing status information after the search;
15. The print ordering method according to claim 14, wherein the search step performs the search only when an instruction to resume reception of the print processing information is input in the input step.   14. The individual identification information includes at least one of a file name of print processing information, a date of a print processing information file, a date of image data, and various types of information included in a header of image data. The print ordering method according to any one of 1 to 15.   17. The setting process according to claim 13, wherein the setting step sets an interruption state in the print processing state information when an instruction to interrupt the first device or when communication is interrupted for a predetermined time or more. The print ordering method according to the item.   18. The setting process according to claim 13, wherein when the reception of the print processing information and the individual identification information is not completed, no interruption state is set in the print processing state information. How to order prints.   The print order according to any one of claims 13 to 18, wherein in the first reception step, when the communication is interrupted, the received image data whose reception is completed is not received again when the communication is resumed. Method.   19. The first reception process according to claim 13, wherein when the communication is resumed, the reception of incomplete received image data that has not been received at the time of interruption is resumed. The print order method described.   21. The print ordering method according to claim 13, further comprising a prohibition step of prohibiting browsing and copying of the order print target image data stored in the second storage step. The second device is:
The resumability setting step of setting the print order to be unresumable when the resumption of reception of the print processing information is not resumed within a predetermined time is included. How to order prints. The second device is:
23. A notification step of notifying the owner of the first device that has been interrupted when the resumption of reception of print processing information is not resumed within a predetermined time. The print ordering method according to one item. With the first device,
A second transmission step of transmitting a communication connection change request by a user;
With the second device,
A second receiving step of receiving a communication connection change request by a user;
An interruption process for interrupting the communication connection;
A standby step of waiting for connection of the first device after interrupting communication connection;
A communication resumption step of resuming communication after detecting the connection of the first device by the standby step;
The print ordering method according to claim 13, further comprising:

Images