JP2008243121A - Photo print processing system and print processing continuation method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a photo print processing system capable of reducing load of a controller part, and continuing printing in the midway of processing in another photo processor. <P>SOLUTION: In this photo printing system, a setup data for making color adjustment peculiar to a plurality of photo processors and a differential value between the setup data of the photo processor and a setup data of another photo processor are associated with identification information and stored. When the photo printing is interupted in another photo processor, setup data processed image data and identification information of the photo processor related to the interruption are received from the photo processor related to interruption the received setup data processed image data related to the interruption is processed by an image processing part using the differential value identified by the identification information of the photo processor related to the interruption. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a photo print processing system that includes a controller unit that performs control related to photo print processing and a photo processing device that performs photo print processing, and the controller unit and a plurality of photo processing devices are connected via a network. Is. More specifically, when the photographic processing apparatus during the printing process is interrupted due to, for example, a failure or a magazine exchange, the photographic printing processing system for causing another photographic processing apparatus to continue the printing process after the interruption. And a print processing continuation method.

  Conventionally, a photographic processing apparatus having an image exposure unit that performs a printing process on a photosensitive material, a terminal processing apparatus that can accept an order for a printing process and cause the photographic processing apparatus to perform the printing process, and a plurality of photos A print processing system in which a processing device and one or a plurality of terminal processing devices are connectable via a network is known (Patent Document 1). In this system, the terminal processing device includes a monitoring unit that monitors the operation status of the photo processing device connected to the network, and this monitoring unit has a state in which the print processing is interrupted or stopped in the photo processing device. When this is detected, the print processing is transferred to another photo processing apparatus depending on the state of interruption or cancellation.

JP-A-2005-189411 (Claim 1)

  In the above-mentioned Patent Document 1, when a photo processing device during printing is interrupted due to, for example, a failure or a magazine replacement due to a paper-end, another photo processing device is specified, and this is specified from the terminal processing device. Image data (image data for print creation) is transmitted to the apparatus.

  In such a configuration, if the same image data as the interrupted device is transmitted to another device as it is, the photo processing device performs the exposure process using the received data as it is, so the interrupted photo A photograph having a different hue (color) from a photograph printed by the processing apparatus is printed. This is a problem in the characteristics of an exposure apparatus, a development processing apparatus, etc. inherent to the photographic processing apparatus, and affects the degree of color of the photograph.

  Normally, an installed photo processing apparatus is called “setup” at the time of startup, and the hue (color) of yellow, magenta, and cyan is adjusted for each apparatus, and a correction value (referred to as setup data) with respect to a reference value is adjusted. Set. This setup data is stored in the terminal processing device and the photo processing device.

  The terminal processing device performs image processing on the image data using correction data (for example, color, density, etc.) and setup data in order to obtain print creation image data for each photo processing device. Therefore, as described above, when the image data for print creation once produced is used in another photo processing apparatus, a photo with a different hue (color) is printed.

  In such a case, new image data for print creation has been created for another photo processing apparatus, but since the load on the terminal processing apparatus has increased, improvement has been strongly desired.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and its purpose is to store both setup data and a difference value of setup data relating to another photo processing apparatus in the photo processing apparatus, and set up with the photo processing apparatus. By configuring so as to perform image processing according to data or difference values, a photo that can reduce the load on the controller unit and can continue to perform print processing in the middle of processing to another photo processing apparatus. To provide a print processing system and a print processing continuation method.

In order to solve the above problems, a photo print processing system according to the present invention includes a controller unit that performs control related to photo print processing, and a photo processing device that performs the photo print processing. The controller unit and the plurality of photo processing devices A photo print processing system connected via a network,
The photo processing apparatus
Setup data storage for storing the setup data for performing color adjustment specific to the plurality of photo processing apparatuses and the difference value between the setup data of the photo processing apparatus and the setup data of other photo processing apparatuses in association with the identification information And
An image processing unit that performs image processing on the print creation image data transmitted from the controller unit using the setup data, and creates setup data processed image data;
When photo print processing is interrupted in another photo processing device, a data receiving unit that receives setup data processed image data and photo processing device identification information related to the interruption from the photo processing device related to the interruption,
Image for controlling image data processed by the image processing unit using the difference value identified by the identification information of the photo processing apparatus related to the interruption for the setup data processed for the interruption received by the data receiving unit And a processing control unit.

  The effects of this configuration are as follows. That is, a photo print processing system includes a controller unit that performs control related to photo print processing, and a photo processing device that performs the photo print processing, and the controller unit and a plurality of photo processing devices are connected via a network. It is. Then, the photo processing apparatus uses the identification data as the difference between the setup data for performing color adjustment unique to the plurality of photo processing apparatuses, the setup data of the photo processing apparatus and the setup data of other photo processing apparatuses, When the photo print processing is interrupted in another photo processing device, the setup data is saved from the photo processing device related to the interruption when the photo print processing is interrupted in another photo processing device. The processed image data and the identification information of the photo processing device related to the interruption are received (function of the data receiving unit), and the setup data processed image data related to the received interruption (all data or data related to unprint processing) Image processing using the difference value identified by the identification information corresponding to the photo processing apparatus related to the interruption. It is configured to control so that the image processing (function of the image processing control unit) which in parts. As a result, image processing according to the difference value can be performed on the photo processing apparatus side, the load on the controller unit can be reduced, and print processing in the middle of processing can be continued to be performed by another photo processing apparatus. Can do.

As an example of a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a photo processing apparatus
A setup data setting section for setting setup data;
A receiving unit for receiving setup data of other photo processing apparatus and identification information corresponding thereto;
And a calculation unit that calculates a difference value between the setup data of the photo processing apparatus and the setup data of another photo processing apparatus.

  According to this configuration, the setup data can be set on the photo processing apparatus side, the setup data of another photo processing apparatus and identification information corresponding thereto can be received, and the setup data of the photo processing apparatus can be received. And the difference value between the setup data of other photo processing apparatuses can be calculated. The setup data of the photographic processing apparatus is stored in the setup data storage unit together with the calculated difference value and its identification information.

As another example of a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the controller unit
A setup data setting unit for setting the setup data of a plurality of photo processing devices;
For all photo processing devices, a calculation unit that calculates a difference value with the setup data of other photo processing devices,
A transmission unit that transmits the setup data set by the setup data setting unit, the difference value calculated by the calculation unit and its identification information to a corresponding photo processing apparatus,
Photo processing equipment
It has a receiving part which receives setup data, a difference value, and its discernment information transmitted from the controller part.

  According to this configuration, the controller unit can set up setup data for a plurality of photo processing devices, and calculates a difference value from the setup data of other photo processing devices for all photo processing devices. can do. Then, the setup data, the difference value and the identification information thereof can be transmitted to the corresponding photo processing apparatus. In addition, the photo processing apparatus can receive the setup data, the difference value, and the identification information transmitted from the controller unit. The setup data, the difference value, and the identification information thereof are stored in a setup data storage unit.

In addition, as an example of a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the photo processing apparatus according to the interruption is
An interruption information notification unit for notifying the controller unit of interruption information when the photo print process is interrupted;
In accordance with the data transfer request information received from the control unit, in order to continue the photo print processing after the interruption, the setup data processed image data related to the interruption and the identification information of the photo processing apparatus are included in the data transfer request information. A data transmission control unit that controls to transmit to the photo processing apparatus identified by the identification information
The controller unit, according to the interruption information received from the photo processing device, a processing status acquisition unit that inquires about the processing status of other photo processing devices,
A determination unit that determines a photo processing device from the processing status of another photo processing device acquired by the processing status acquisition unit;
A data transfer request unit that controls to transmit data transfer request information including identification information of the photo processing device determined by the determining unit to the photo processing device related to the interruption,
The another photo processing apparatus includes a control unit that controls to return processing status information when a processing status query is received from the controller unit.

  According to this configuration, when the photo print processing is interrupted, the photo processing apparatus can notify the controller unit of the interrupt information (function of the interrupt information notifying unit), and the data transfer request information received from the control unit Accordingly, in order to continue the photo print processing after the interruption, the setup data processed image data after the interruption and the identification information of the photo processing device are transmitted to the photo processing device included in the data transfer request information. (The function of the data transmission control unit). The controller unit can inquire about the processing status of another photo processing device in accordance with the interruption information received from the photo processing device (function of the processing status acquisition unit). The photo processing device can be determined from the processing status (function of the determining unit), and the data transfer request information including the identification information of the photo processing device determined by the determining unit is transmitted to the photo processing device related to the interruption Can be controlled (function of the data transfer request unit). Further, when another processing apparatus receives an inquiry about the processing status from the controller unit, it can send back processing status information (function of the control unit). The controller unit can inquire about the processing status of all the photo processing apparatuses, and the controller unit determines the optimal photo processing apparatus by inquiring and determining the processing status of other photo processing apparatuses. Can do.

  Further, as another embodiment, the processing status acquisition unit reads processing status information (stored in a memory) of another photo processing apparatus according to the interruption information, and the determination unit reads the processing that has been read out. The photo processing apparatus can be determined based on the situation information. The processing status information is information on the processing status of the photographic processing apparatus acquired periodically or information on the processing status of each photographic processing apparatus calculated theoretically.

In addition, as an example of a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the photo processing apparatus according to the interruption is
A processing status acquisition unit that inquires about the processing status of another photo processing device when the photo print processing is interrupted;
A determination unit for determining a photo processing device from the processing status of another photo processing device acquired by the processing status acquisition unit;
A data transmission control unit that controls to transmit the setup data processed image data related to the interruption and the identification information of the photo processing device to the photo processing device determined by the determination unit;
The other photo processing apparatus is:
And a control unit that controls to return processing status information when an inquiry about the processing status is received from the photo processing apparatus related to the interruption.

  According to this configuration, when the photo print processing is interrupted, the photo processing device related to the interruption can inquire about the processing status of another photo processing device (function of the processing status acquisition unit), the processing status acquisition unit The photo processing device can be determined from the processing status of the other photo processing device acquired in (function of the determination unit), and the photo processing device determined by this determination unit includes the setup data processed image data related to the interruption. And identification information of the photo processing apparatus can be transmitted (function of data transmission control unit). The processing status can be inquired between the photo processing apparatuses without passing through the function of the controller unit, and the data relating to the interruption can be transferred to the optimum photo processing apparatus.

In addition, as an example of a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the photo processing apparatus according to the interruption is
A data transmission control unit that controls to transmit the setup data processed image data related to the interruption and the identification information of the photographic processing device according to a predetermined interruption transfer table when the photo print processing is interrupted It is characterized by having.

  According to this configuration, when the photo print processing is interrupted, the photo processing device related to the interruption is subjected to the setup data processed image data related to the interruption and the photo processing device according to the interruption transfer table determined in advance. Identification information can be transmitted (function of data transmission control unit). There is no need to inquire about another processing status, and data can be transferred to another preset photo processing apparatus.

Another aspect of the present invention is a print processing continuation method at the time of interruption for causing another photographic processing device to continue the interrupted print processing when the photographic processing device during print processing is interrupted,
The photographic processing apparatus is a storage medium that associates the difference between the setup data for performing color adjustment specific to the photographic processing apparatus and the setup data of the photographic processing apparatus and the setup data of another photographic processing apparatus with identification information. Saved in
When photo print processing is interrupted in another photo processing device, in order to continue the photo print processing after the interruption, the image data after image processing and the interruption based on the setup data relating to the interruption from the photo processing device related to the interruption A data receiving step of acquiring identification information of the photo processing apparatus according to
A control step of controlling the image data related to the interruption received in the data reception step to perform image processing using a difference value identified by the identification information of the photo processing apparatus related to the interruption. To do.

  The effect of this structure is the same as the effect demonstrated above.

(Embodiment 1)
The configuration of an example of a photographic print processing system according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the present invention, one order information includes a group of image data included in one order and order data associated therewith, and the order data includes print data and data for specifying an order. . In addition to the data described above, the print data includes paper surface quality (such as a glossy surface and silk), and data regarding whether or not there is a print with a border. Examples of the data for specifying an order include data such as an order identification ID, a customer name, an address, and a member ID.

<Overall system configuration>
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of a print processing system according to the present invention. In the present embodiment, a plurality of photo processing apparatuses 100 (100a, 100b,...) Are connected to a controller 200 (having the function of a controller unit) via a network such as a LAN. The controller 200 is connected to a scanner 300 that reads image data from a negative film. In addition, a reception terminal 400, a recording device 500, and a network reception terminal 600 are connected to the controller 200 via a network. The number of reception terminals 400, recording devices 500, and net reception terminals 600 is not limited to one each, and a plurality can be installed as necessary. Further, the scanner 300 may be installed in the photo processing apparatus 100.

  The photo processing apparatus 100 has a function of creating a photo print based on the image data (or print creation image data) transmitted from the controller 200. Examples of the image data include image data of a developed negative film frame image acquired from the scanner 300, image data received by the receiving terminal 400 and transmitted via a network. These image data are subjected to image processing using correction data such as pre-judge processing, and are provided to the photo processing apparatus 100 as print creation image data. The photo processing apparatus 100 does not perform correction processing and sets up setup data unique to the apparatus. Only image processing by is performed.

  The reception terminal 400 is installed in a store, for example, and can receive image data stored in a recording medium of a digital camera or other recording media. Examples of the recording medium include CompactFlash (registered trademark), SmartMedia (registered trademark), Memory Stick (registered trademark), CD-R, and DVD-R. The reception terminal 400 is mainly operated by a customer, and may insert a recording medium brought by the customer to select image data to be created as a photo print or set the number of prints. it can. The recording apparatus 500 has a function of writing image data, order data, and the like transmitted from the controller 200 to a recording medium.

  The net reception terminal 600 is constituted by a personal computer and has a function of receiving an online print order via the Internet. Such a print order is received via a server 610 installed on the Internet. That is, image data relating to a print order is uploaded from the customer's personal computer 620 to the server 610, downloaded to the network reception terminal 600 at an appropriate timing, and used for print processing. Such a system for accepting print orders online is well known.

<Functional block configuration of print processing system>
First, main functions of the controller 200 will be described below.

  The controller 200 includes a data receiving unit 201 for receiving order information including image data and order data relating to a photo print order from the scanner 300, the receiving terminal 400, the recording device 500, the network receiving terminal 600, and the like, and the received order information. The order information storage unit 202 to store, the management control unit 210 to manage and control the order information, the image processing board 220 for image processing image data in the order information, and the image processing board 220 perform image processing. A data transmission unit 203 that transmits the image data for print creation to the photo processing apparatus in order units.

Further, a pre-judge processing unit 204 that performs pre-judge processing on the image data of the order information and stores the pre-judge correction data in the order information storage unit 202 in association with the order information may be provided. Further, the image data received from the scanner 300 may be data after pre-judge processing.

  In the present invention, the pre-judgment process determines whether or not a photographic print having an appropriate image quality is created before creating a photographic print based on the image data. The operator makes a judgment on the image data. Functions are provided primarily by software. The pre-judge process is not necessarily performed, and the print process can be performed without the pre-judge process.

  Specifically, the pre-judge processing unit 204 provides a function of inputting correction data for correcting color and density, and the input of the correction data is set as necessary. Examples of other correction data settings include special correction settings such as red-eye correction and backlight correction.

  As the setting of the number of prints, 1 is set by default for the image data acquired from the scanner 300, but it can be changed by an input operation of the operator.

  Further, the controller 200 includes an input operation unit 230 for various settings, operation instruction inputs, and the like, and a monitor 240 for various setting operation instruction displays. The input operation unit 230 includes a keyboard, a mouse, and the like.

  The management control unit 210 has an order allocation unit 216 having a function of allocating photo print processing to a plurality of photo processing apparatuses 100. The order allocation unit 216 has a plurality of allocation modes. For example, in the first allocation control mode, order information can be assigned with priority over an apparatus that is not performing photo print processing. Further, in the case of the second allocation control mode, when it is assumed that the latest processing waiting order is processed at once, the end time of the processing waiting order is set to the processing status and processing capacity of each photo processing apparatus 100. Based on the calculation, the photographic processing device 100 having the shortest time is extracted from the end times of the calculated photographic processing devices 100, and the extracted photographic processing device 100 performs processing. Waiting orders can be allocated.

  The first setup data setting unit 211 can set setup data for a plurality of photo processing apparatuses 100. The setup data is data for performing color adjustment specific to the photographic processing apparatus, and is set, for example, as correction values for yellow, magenta, and cyan color data as hue (color). This setup data is performed every time the apparatus is activated, and is set for each apparatus. The setup data can be set by a known method. As an example, a test image displayed on the monitor screen is test printed by the photo processing apparatus 100. Thereafter, the density of the test print test image is measured. As a result of the measurement, the measured value is indicated by a number of ± with respect to the target value. If the measured value is 0, there is no need to correct it, and if the measured value is not 0, it is necessary to correct it so that it becomes the target value (generally, the measured value varies depending on the individual difference of the apparatus and the frequency of use). ). For example, in the case of FIG. 2, since the measured value of yellow of the photo processing apparatus 100a is +1, the setup value of yellow is -1. Also, since the yellow measurement value of the photo processing apparatus 100b is -1, the yellow setup value is +1.

  The first calculation unit 212 can calculate a difference value from the setup data of another photo processing apparatus for all the photo processing apparatuses 100 for which the setup data is set. In the case of FIG. 2, the yellow setup value of the photo processing apparatus 100b with respect to the photo processing apparatus 100a is +2. On the other hand, the yellow setup value of the photo processing apparatus 100a with respect to the photo processing apparatus 100b is −2.

  The setup data (yellow, magenta, cyan) of each photo processing device, the difference value calculated by the first calculation unit 212 and its identification information (for example, device ID) are sent to each photo processing device by the data transmission unit 203. Sent to. For example, in the case of FIG. 2, the photo processing apparatus 100a includes setup data (yellow, magenta, cyan: -1,...), Difference values (yellow, magenta, cyan: +2,...), Identification information (apparatus ID). : 100b) is transmitted. Further, setup data (yellow, magenta, cyan: +1,...), Difference values (yellow, magenta, cyan: −2,...), And identification information (apparatus ID: 100a) are transmitted to the photo processing apparatus 100b. Is done.

  In addition, the processing status acquisition unit 213 can inquire about the processing status of another photo processing apparatus according to the interruption information received from the photo processing apparatus 100 by the data receiving unit 201. This processing status information is, for example, information such as printing, number of prints processed or unprocessed, interrupted, stopped, power off, etc., and these are stored in a memory (not shown). Further, the processing status acquisition unit 213 can periodically inquire about the processing status regardless of the interruption information.

  The determination unit 214 can determine a photo processing device from the processing status of another photo processing device acquired by the processing status acquisition unit 213. For example, it is possible to determine a photographic processing apparatus in an empty state (standby). In addition, it is possible to determine a photographic processing apparatus that can print according to the print size. In addition, when all the photo processing apparatuses are in operation (printing or being interrupted), it is possible to determine an apparatus that can perform the print processing earliest.

  The data transfer request unit 215 can control to transmit the data transfer request information including the identification information of the photo processing apparatus determined by the determination unit 214 to the photo processing apparatus related to the interruption.

  Further, the image processing board 220 reads out the image data and the correction data after the order is allocated and before being transmitted to the photo processing apparatus side, performs image processing on the image data based on the correction data, and creates a photo print. For this purpose, print creation image data is generated. The image processing board 220 includes an input memory, an image processing circuit unit, and a development memory, and predetermined image processing is performed in the image processing circuit unit. Specifically, color / density correction based on correction data such as pre-judge processing, data expansion / contraction processing according to a set print size, and the like. The image data for print creation is transmitted by the data transmission unit 203 to the photo processing apparatus 100 as allocated in order units.

  The scanner 300 has a function of acquiring digital image data by scanning a frame image formed on a developed negative film. The read image data is transmitted to the controller 200. There are two scanning methods: press scanning and main scanning. In press scanning, the entire negative film is scanned once at a low resolution (resolution for prejudgment). This is performed after the judgment process, and is read at a high resolution (photo resolution). In this case, the scanner 300 is connected to a pre-judge processing unit that provides a pre-judge processing function. The scanner 300 may be installed on the photo processing apparatus 100 side.

Next, the functional configuration of the photo processing apparatus 100 will be described. The photo processing apparatus 100 includes a data receiving unit 120 that receives print creation image data from the controller 200, a data storage unit 124 that stores the received print creation image data, and a setup for the print creation image data. An image processing unit 125 that performs image processing using the data and creates setup data processed image data; and an exposure unit 105 that exposes the setup data processed image data to the photographic paper 104 fed out from the magazine 103; The developing unit 106 for developing the exposed photographic paper 104, the drying unit 107 for drying the developed photographic paper 104, and discharging the dried photographic paper 104 while sorting the dried photographic paper 104 And a sorting / discharging unit 108 to be configured. Further, a main control unit 140 for controlling the overall operation of the photo processing apparatus 100 is provided.

  In addition, the photo processing apparatus 100 can include a second setup data setting unit 121 that sets setup data. The set setup data is stored in the setup data storage unit 122. Note that the second setup data setting unit 121 provides a function that allows the setup data to be set on the photo processing apparatus side, but when configured to receive setup data from the controller 200, the second setup data setting unit 121 121 may or may not be present.

  In addition, the setup data can be received from the controller 200, and the setup data of another photo processing apparatus and the identification information of the other photo processing apparatus can be received by the data receiving unit 120.

  The second calculation unit 123 can calculate a difference value between the setup data of the photo processing apparatus and the setup data of another photo processing apparatus. In addition, when comprised so that a difference value may be received from the controller 200, the 2nd calculation part 123 does not need to be.

  Further, the interruption information notification unit 141 can notify the controller 200 of interruption information when the photo print process is interrupted. The interruption is caused by, for example, magazine replacement, developer replacement, or failure. The determination of whether or not to interrupt can be made by a known method by the function of the main control unit 140. For example, the magazine replacement time (cause of interruption) can be determined by detecting the remaining amount of photographic paper and the rotational speed of the photographic paper roll with a rotary encoder or the like. Further, for example, when the number of sheets that have undergone photographic print processing is detected by a sensor or the like and the cumulative number exceeds a predetermined number (for example, 10,000 sheets, developer replacement timing), the developer replacement timing (cause of interruption) I can judge.

  Further, the data transmission control unit 142, according to the data transfer request information received from the controller 200, displays the print creation image data related to the suspension and the identification information of the photograph processing device in order to continue the photograph print processing after the suspension. The data transmission unit 143 can be used to control the photo processing apparatus identified by the identification information included in the data transfer request information.

  Further, the main control unit 140 related to a photo processing apparatus other than the interruption can be controlled to return processing status information when the processing status inquiry information is received from the controller 200 by the data receiving unit 120. The main control unit 140 can detect and determine information such as the current processing state of the exposure unit 105, the discharge state of the photographic paper 104, the number of discharged sheets, interruption, and stop, for example. These can detect and judge the processing status by a known method.

  Further, the image processing control unit 144 reads the print creation image data related to the interruption received by the data receiving unit 120 and stored in the data storage unit 124. Further, a difference value identified by the identification information of the interrupted photographic processing apparatus is read from the setup data storage unit 122, and control is performed so that the image processing unit 125 performs image processing on the setup processed data related to the interruption using the difference value. can do. As a result, the setup-processed data can be image-processed using the read difference value, and it is not necessary to perform image processing using new setup data on the controller 200 side, or a new one can be obtained from the controller 200 side. It is not necessary to send image data for print creation to the controller 200, and the load on the controller 200 side can be reduced.

  The image processing unit 125 may have a dedicated circuit configuration similar to that of the image processing board 220 described above, or may be realized by the cooperation of a hardware resource such as a CPU or MPU and a main memory and a software program. From the viewpoint of processing speed, it is preferable to use a dedicated circuit. The image processing unit 125 of the photo processing apparatus on the side of continuing the interrupted photo print processing uses the difference identified by the identification information of the photo processing apparatus related to the interruption to the setup data processed image data received from the photo processing apparatus related to the interruption. Image processing can be performed according to the value. Further, the interrupted image processing unit 125 on the photo processing apparatus side performs image processing on the image data for print creation related to the unprinted processing based on the setup data, and the processed image data processed by the setup data is transmitted here. The In this case, the image processing unit 125 can be configured to perform image processing and transmit data related to unprinted processing after interruption. The image processing unit 125 performs image processing in units of orders, stores it in a memory (not shown), and reads out data for each sheet and transmits the data to the exposure unit 105 in the case of photo print processing. In the case of interruption, only the data for the unprinted process can be read from the memory and transmitted.

In the magazine 103, photographic paper 104, which is a photographic photosensitive material, is accommodated in a roll shape. Two magazines 103 can be installed. For example, printing papers having different widths can be set in advance. The long photographic printing paper 104 drawn out from the magazine 103 is cut by a cutting means such as a cutter so as to have a set print size.

  The exposure unit 105 includes an exposure engine, for example, receives the setup data processed image data image-processed by the image processing unit 125, and based on the setup data processed image data, an image is formed on the emulsion surface of the photographic paper. Print exposure. The exposure engine is not limited to a specific type, and for example, a laser engine, a CRT engine, a PLZT engine, or the like can be used.

  The developing unit 106 performs a developing process on the photographic paper 104 on which the image is printed and exposed, and the drying unit 107 performs a drying process on the developed photographic paper 104. In the sorting and discharging unit 108, the finished photographic print is discharged to the outside of the apparatus main body, and can be stacked in units of orders by a predetermined stacking apparatus.

  The photographic paper sensor 109 detects the photographic paper 104 discharged from the sorting discharge unit 108, and detects whether or not all photo prints of a certain order have been discharged. The sensor control unit 110 controls driving of the photographic paper sensor 109 and receives and analyzes a signal from the photographic paper sensor 109. When the sensor control unit 110 detects that all the photographic prints for an order have been discharged, the main control unit 140 deletes the print creation image data stored in the data storage unit 124 of the order. Further, the main control unit 140 may be configured to notify the controller 200, set the order information about the order to the processed management state, and delete the order information from the order information storage unit 202.

  The main control unit 140 is configured to sequentially notify the number of photo prints discharged for a certain order from the sensor control unit 110, and from the number of discharged prints in the case of interruption, the number of unprocessed sheets and the generation of unprocessed prints are configured. It is possible to specify image data for processing or image data that has undergone setup data processing. For example, when the order number is 100 and the reason for interrupting the magazine exchange is, the feeding and feeding of the photographic paper is stopped first, and the exposure process is stopped. At this time, the cumulative number of discharged sheets was 20. The number of photographic papers that have been exposed and not discharged is 15 sheets (automatically calculated from the conveying speed) at the time of interruption, and these are discharged as they are. Therefore, the number of unprocessed prints is 65 (100 sheets− (20 + 15)). The number of unprocessed prints can also be calculated by counting the cumulative number of exposure processes when the exposure process is stopped. Since the number of unprocessed prints can be obtained, unprocessed print creation image data or setup data processed image data can be specified.

  (Operation flowchart)

  Next, the operation flow of the first embodiment will be described using the flowcharts of FIGS. 3 is an operation flow of the controller 200, FIG. 4 is an operation flow of the photo processing apparatus 100a related to the interruption, and FIG. 5 is an operation flow of the photo processing apparatus 100b determined to continue the interrupted processing. It is an operation flow.

  First, setup data is set for all the photo processing apparatuses on the controller 200 side when the system is started (S1). Next, the difference value of the setup data of each photo processing device for all the photo processing devices is calculated (S2). Next, the setup data, the difference value, and the identification information of the photo processing device are transmitted to each photo processing device and stored in each setup data storage unit 122 (S3). FIG. 6 shows an example of setup data, difference values, and identification information.

  Next, a normal photo print process is started. On the controller 200 side, order information is received and pre-judge processing is performed as necessary. Then, order information is allocated according to a predetermined method (S4). Here, it is assumed that the arbitrary photographic processing apparatus 100a interrupts the printing process for some reason (S22 and S23 in FIG. 4). In step S5, it is determined whether or not interruption information has been received. If interruption information has been received, the process proceeds to step S6.

  In step S6, the controller 200 inquires of the other photographic processing apparatus about the processing status (S6). When the processing status is returned from another photo processing device, a photo processing device for continuously processing the photo print processing related to the interruption is determined (S7). As a determination method, for example, priority is given to a device waiting for processing, and priority is given to a device having a large processing capacity. Here, for example, it is assumed that the processing capability is large and the photo processing apparatus 100b waiting for processing is determined.

  Next, a data transfer request for sending image data for print creation to the photo processing device 100b determined in step S7 is made to the photo processing device 100a related to the interruption (S8). Next, the process returns to step S4.

  On the other hand, in the photographic processing apparatus 100a related to the interruption, the printing process is performed (S21), and it is determined whether or not the interruption is performed (S22). When interrupted for some reason, the controller 200 is notified (transmitted) of the interrupt information (S23). The interruption information includes identification information of the device. It may also include data on the number of unprocessed prints. The controller 200 can be configured to determine a photo processing apparatus according to the processing capability from the data of the number of unprocessed prints.

  Next, it is determined whether or not a data transfer request has been received from the controller 200 (S24). If received, the process goes to step S26. If the data transfer request is not received even after a predetermined period of time has passed since the interruption information was notified, a timeout occurs (S25), and the process returns to step S21. For the predetermined period of time-out, for example, a sufficient time for canceling the cause of interruption and restarting the printing process can be set. Further, when there is no response from the controller 200, it is assumed that other photo processing apparatuses cannot be processed for some reason.

  In step S26, the setup data processed image data and the device identification information (100a) are transmitted to the determined photo processing device 100b. The setup data processed image data may include data that has undergone print processing, but only unprocessed data is preferable from the viewpoint of processing efficiency.

  Next, in step S27, it is determined whether the reason for interruption is canceled and the printing process can be resumed (S27). If the print process can be resumed, the process returns to S21.

  Further, another photographic processing apparatus (for example, the photographic processing apparatus 100b) determines whether or not an inquiry about the processing status has been received from the controller 200 (S31). If received, the process goes to step S32, and the processing status is changed to the controller 200. (S32). Next, it is determined whether the setup data processed image data and the identification information (100a) have been received from the photo processing apparatus 100a related to the interruption (S33). If received, the process goes to step S35. If no data such as setup data processed image data is received for a predetermined period after the processing status is returned, a timeout occurs (S34). For example, it means that another photo processing apparatus has been selected.

  In step S35, the difference data is retrieved from the data stored in the setup data storage unit 122 using the device identification information (100a) received in step S33 as a key. The setup data processed image data is subjected to image processing using the retrieved difference value (S35). The image-processed data is subjected to an exposure process which is a subsequent printing process, and then development, drying, and discharge processes are performed (S36).

  According to the first embodiment described above, another photographic processing apparatus can be determined by the controller 200, and the load of the photographic processing apparatus is not increased more than necessary.

(Embodiment 2)
In the following second embodiment, since the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment have the same functions, the description thereof will be omitted or simply described. In the second embodiment, each photo processing apparatus has a processing status inquiry function. This will be described with reference to the functional block diagram shown in FIG. As illustrated in FIG. 7, the photo processing apparatus 100 further includes a processing status acquisition unit 150 and a determination unit 151.

  When the photo print processing is interrupted, the processing status acquisition unit 150 can inquire about the processing status of another photo processing apparatus. The inquiry process is the same as the function of the process status acquisition unit 213.

  The determination unit 151 can determine a photo processing device for continuing the print processing related to the interruption from the processing status of the other photo processing device acquired by the processing status acquisition unit 150. The content of the determination process is the same as the function of the determination unit 214 described above.

  Then, the data transmission control unit 142 identifies the setup data processed image data related to the interruption and the identification of the photo processing device in order to continue the photo print processing after the interruption for the photo processing device determined by the determination unit 214. Information can be controlled to be transmitted using the data transmission unit 143.

  (Operation flowchart)

  Next, the operation flow of the first embodiment will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 8 is an operation flow of the controller 200, FIG. 9 is an operation flow of the photo processing apparatus 100a related to the interruption, and FIG. 10 is an operation flow of the photo processing apparatus 100b determined to continue the interrupted processing. It is an operation flow.

  In the operation flow of the controller 200 shown in FIG. 8, steps S1 to S5 are the same as the operation flow of the first embodiment (FIG. 3). If interruption information is received in step S5, the photographic processing apparatus related to interruption is managed as interruption in step S81, and the process returns to step S4. When a resumption notification is received, it is managed as a normal process waiting state.

  Next, the operation flow of the photo processing apparatus 100a according to the interruption will be described with reference to FIG. Steps S21 to S23 are the same as the operation flow of the first embodiment (FIG. 4). If the photo print process is interrupted, in step S91, the other photo processing apparatus is inquired about the processing status (S91). Next, the photographic processing apparatus 100b capable of continuing the photographic print processing related to the interruption is determined from the acquired processing status (S92). Next, in step S26, the setup data processed image data and the identification information (100a) are transmitted to the photo processing apparatus 100b. The operation in the following step S27 is the same as that in FIG.

  Next, an operation flow of the photographic processing apparatus 100b according to continuation will be described with reference to FIG. Steps S31 to S36 are basically the same as the operation flow of the first embodiment (FIG. 5), but differ in that an inquiry about the processing status is made from the photo processing apparatus 100a related to the interruption.

  According to the second embodiment described above, the photo processing apparatus 100a related to the interruption inquires about the processing status of the other photo processing apparatus, and the photo processing apparatus 100b that continuously performs the photo print processing related to the interruption according to the inquiry result. Can be determined, which helps to reduce the load on the controller 200.

(Embodiment 3)
In the following third embodiment, since the same reference numerals as those in the first and second embodiments have the same functions, the description thereof will be omitted or simply described. In the third embodiment, the processing status inquiry function is not provided, and transmission to another photo processing apparatus is possible based on a preset transfer table at interruption. This will be described with reference to the functional block diagram shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 11, the photo processing apparatus 100 includes an interruption transfer table storage unit 160. FIG. 12 shows an example of the interruption transfer table.

  Then, the data transmission control unit 142 searches the interruption transfer table stored in the interruption transfer table storage unit 160, and continues the photo print processing after the interruption in the photo processing apparatus of the search result. The setup data processed image data related to the interruption and the identification information of the photo processing apparatus can be controlled to be transmitted using the data transmission unit 143. For example, in the case of the interruption transfer table of FIG. 12, the photo processing apparatus 100b with the highest priority is searched by the search. Since data cannot be transmitted when the photographic processing apparatus 100b is turned off, in such a case, it is possible to configure such that a lower priority apparatus is searched next.

  According to the third embodiment described above, it is not necessary to inquire about the processing statuses of all the photo processing apparatuses, and can be transmitted to other photo processing apparatuses based on a preset interruption transfer table. The load on the processing apparatus 100 or the controller 200 can be reduced.

(Embodiment 4)
In the embodiment of the present invention, software and hardware (CPU, memory, etc.) can be realized by a cooperative action, and can also be realized by a dedicated circuit, firmware, etc., or a combination thereof.

  When implemented in software, the program is as follows. This program is recorded on a recording medium, can be provided as a recording medium, and may be provided (provided by downloading) via a communication line. When provided via a communication line, only a part of the functions may be provided, or the other part may remain in the server device, and the functions of the present invention may be exhibited as a whole function. Are included in the technical scope of the present invention.

The software program of the present invention is stored in a computer.
A program for continuing print processing at the time of interruption for causing another photo processing device to continue the interrupted print processing when the photo processing device during print processing is interrupted,
The photographic processing apparatus is a storage medium that associates the difference between the setup data for performing color adjustment specific to the photographic processing apparatus and the setup data of the photographic processing apparatus and the setup data of another photographic processing apparatus with identification information. Saved in
When photo print processing is interrupted in another photo processing device, in order to continue the photo print processing after the interruption, the image data after image processing and the interruption based on the setup data relating to the interruption from the photo processing device related to the interruption A data receiving step of acquiring identification information of the photo processing apparatus according to
A control step of performing control to perform image processing on the image data related to the interruption received in the data reception step using the difference value identified by the identification information of the photo processing apparatus related to the interruption, To do.

Diagram for explaining the functional configuration of the photo print processing system Illustration for explaining setup data Flow chart for explaining the operation Flow chart for explaining the operation Flow chart for explaining the operation Flow chart for explaining the difference value Diagram for explaining the functional configuration of the photo print processing system Flow chart for explaining the operation Flow chart for explaining the operation Flow chart for explaining the operation Diagram for explaining the functional configuration of the photo print processing system Figure showing an example of the interruption transfer table

Explanation of symbols

100 Photo processing device 120 Data receiving unit 121 Second setup data setting unit 122 Setup data storage unit 123 Second calculation unit 124 Data storage unit 125 Image processing unit 140 Main control unit 141 Interruption information notification unit 142 Data transmission control unit 143 Data transmission Unit 144 image processing control unit 150 processing status acquisition unit 151 determination unit 160 interruption transfer table storage unit 200 controller 210 management control unit 211 first setup data setting unit 212 first calculation unit 213 processing status acquisition unit 214 determination unit 215 data transfer Request section 216 Order allocation section

Claims (7)

A photo print processing system having a controller unit for controlling photo print processing and a photo processing device for performing photo print processing, wherein the controller unit and a plurality of photo processing devices are connected via a network,
The photo processing apparatus
Setup data storage for storing the setup data for performing color adjustment specific to the plurality of photo processing apparatuses and the difference value between the setup data of the photo processing apparatus and the setup data of other photo processing apparatuses in association with the identification information And
An image processing unit that performs image processing on the print creation image data transmitted from the controller unit using the setup data and creates setup data processed image data;
When the photo print processing is interrupted in another photo processing device, a data receiving unit that receives the setup data processed image data and the photo processing device identification information related to the interruption from the photo processing device related to the interruption,
An image for controlling the image data processed by the image processing unit using the difference value identified by the identification information of the photographic processing apparatus related to the interruption for the setup data processed image data related to the interruption received by the data receiving unit A processing control unit;
A photographic print processing system comprising: The photo processing apparatus
A setup data setting unit for setting the setup data;
A receiving unit for receiving setup data of other photo processing apparatus and identification information corresponding thereto;
A calculation unit for calculating a difference value between setup data of the photo processing apparatus and setup data of another photo processing apparatus;
The photographic print processing system according to claim 1, further comprising: The controller unit is
A setup data setting unit for setting the setup data of a plurality of photo processing devices;
For all photo processing devices, a calculation unit that calculates a difference value with the setup data of other photo processing devices,
A transmission unit that transmits the setup data set by the setup data setting unit, the difference value calculated by the calculation unit and its identification information to a corresponding photo processing apparatus,
Photo processing equipment
A receiving unit that receives setup data, a difference value, and identification information transmitted from the controller unit,
The photographic print processing system according to claim 1, further comprising: The photo processing apparatus related to the interruption is
An interruption information notification unit for notifying the controller unit of interruption information when the photo print process is interrupted;
In accordance with the data transfer request information received from the control unit, in order to continue the photo print processing after the interruption, the setup data processed image data related to the interruption and the identification information of the photo processing apparatus are included in the data transfer request information. A data transmission control unit that controls transmission to the photo processing apparatus identified by the identification information
Have
The controller unit is
In response to the interruption information received from the photo processing device, a processing status acquisition unit that inquires about the processing status of other photo processing devices,
A determination unit for determining a photo processing device from the processing status of another photo processing device acquired by the processing status acquisition unit;
A data transfer request unit that controls to transmit data transfer request information including identification information of the photo processing device determined by the determining unit to the photo processing device related to the interruption;
Have
The other photo processing apparatus is:
When receiving a processing status inquiry from the controller unit, a control unit that controls to return processing status information,
The photographic print processing system according to claim 1, wherein the photographic print processing system is provided. The photo processing apparatus related to the interruption is
A processing status acquisition unit that inquires about the processing status of another photo processing device when the photo print processing is interrupted;
A determination unit for determining a photo processing device from the processing status of another photo processing device acquired by the processing status acquisition unit;
A data transmission control unit for controlling to transmit the setup data processed image data related to the interruption and the identification information of the photo processing device to the photo processing device determined by the determination unit;
Have
The other photo processing apparatus is:
When receiving a processing status inquiry from the photo processing device related to the interruption, a control unit that controls to return processing status information,
The photographic print processing system according to claim 1, wherein the photographic print processing system is provided. The photo processing apparatus related to the interruption is
A data transmission control unit that controls to transmit the setup data processed image data related to the interruption and the identification information of the photographic processing device according to a predetermined interruption transfer table when the photo print processing is interrupted The photographic print processing system according to claim 1, wherein the photographic print processing system is provided. A print processing continuation method at the time of interruption for causing another photographic processing device to continue the interrupted print processing when the photographic processing device during print processing is interrupted,
The photographic processing apparatus is a storage medium that associates the difference between the setup data for performing color adjustment specific to the photographic processing apparatus and the setup data of the photographic processing apparatus and the setup data of another photographic processing apparatus with identification information. Saved in
When photo print processing is interrupted in another photo processing device, in order to continue the photo print processing after the interruption, the image data after image processing and the interruption based on the setup data relating to the interruption from the photo processing device related to the interruption A data receiving step of acquiring identification information of the photo processing apparatus according to
A control step for controlling the image data related to the interruption received in the data receiving step to perform image processing using a difference value identified by the identification information of the photo processing apparatus related to the interruption;
A print processing continuation method characterized by comprising:

Images