JP2009071555A - Program, information storage medium, photograph printer, and photograph printing method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a photograph printer having a highly flexible editing function for satisfying a user even in a short time. <P>SOLUTION: The photograph printer fetches, edits, and prints the image of a photographed subject. The photograph printer includes a subject image fetch means 110 for fetching a subject image to generate a subject image having a background, and an editing means 120. As editing input for designating the arrangement position of the subject having a background to a given underlying image displayed on an editing screen, point position input by a pointing device to the editing screen is received, the subject image having a background is arranged in the given underlying image based on a point position, and arrangement assist processing for arranging the subject image having a background at a prescribed position to a reference line is performed, when the distance between a given side for composing the outer edge of the subject image having a background arranged at a position corresponding to the point position and a prescribed reference line is in a prescribed relationship. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a program, an information storage medium, a photo printing apparatus, and a photo printing method.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a photo sticker manufacturing machine (an example of a photo printing apparatus) that edits and prints an image of a user subject photographed by a photographing unit such as a CCD camera is known.

In the photo sticker manufacturing machine, it is possible to edit a subject image and generate and enjoy a photo sticker having a high degree of freedom different from a normal photo. When editing using a photographed subject image recently taken, select a print target image to be printed from the photographed subject image,
Photo sticker manufacturing machines that have a function of using a subject image as a collage image and editing a plurality of photographed subject images of different sizes and shots on the photographed subject image are gaining popularity.
JP 2003-195412 A

  In such a printing apparatus, when an image to be printed is selected and editing is started, the image to be printed cannot be changed to another subject image.

  Also, when collage images are placed on the print target image, the collage image placement position is specified on the editing screen using a pointing device such as a touch pen. However, it is difficult to perform fine alignment in a short time. there were.

  The present invention has been made in order to solve the above-described problems, and the object of the present invention is to realize a highly flexible editing function, and a program having an editing function that satisfies a user even in a short time, An object is to provide an information storage medium, an image generation device, a photo printing device, and a photo printing method.

(1) The present invention
A photo printing device that captures, edits, and prints an image of a photographed subject,
Subject image capturing means for capturing a subject image captured by the imaging means;
Editing processing means for generating a print target image by performing editing processing using the captured subject image based on the editing input,
The subject image capturing means includes
Combine the captured subject image with a given background image to generate a background subject image,
The editing processing means includes
As an editing input to specify the placement position of a subject image with a background for a given background image displayed on the editing screen, a point position input by a pointing device to the editing screen is accepted. Subject image placement control means for placing the subject image on a given background image,
The subject image arrangement control means includes:
When the distance between a given side that forms the outer edge of the subject image with background arranged at a position corresponding to the point position and a predetermined reference line has a predetermined relationship, the subject image with background is An arrangement assisting process for arranging at a predetermined position with respect to the reference line is performed.

  For example, when the distance between a given side constituting the outer edge of the subject image with background arranged at a position corresponding to the point position and a predetermined reference line is smaller than a first value, as the arrangement assist control, The subject image with background may be arranged at a position where the distance is a second value smaller than the first value.

For example, the subject image arrangement control means
Based on the x-coordinate or y-coordinate of the point position, the distance between a given side that constitutes the outer edge of the subject image with background arranged at the position corresponding to the point position and a predetermined reference line is greater than the first value. It is determined whether or not the image is small. If it is determined that the image is small, the x-coordinate or y-coordinate of the arrangement position of the subject image with the background is set to a uniform value corresponding to a predetermined reference line. The subject image with the background may be arranged at a position where the distance is a second value smaller than the first value.

  According to the present invention, since the placement assist process is performed in a predetermined case, the user can move a plurality of images by moving the background subject image toward the reference line without performing troublesome alignment by the point operation. Can be arranged neatly. Therefore, it is possible to provide a photo printing apparatus that realizes a highly flexible editing function and has an editing function that satisfies the user even in a short time.

(2) The present invention
A photo printing device that captures, edits, and prints an image of a photographed subject,
Subject image capturing means for capturing a subject image captured by the imaging means;
Editing processing means for generating a print target image by performing editing processing using the captured subject image based on the editing input,
The subject image capturing means includes
Combine the captured subject image with a given background image to generate a background subject image,
The editing processing means includes
As an editing input to specify the placement position of a subject image with a background for a given background image displayed on the editing screen, a point position input by a pointing device to the editing screen is accepted. Subject image placement control means for placing the subject image on a given background image,
The subject image arrangement control means includes:
Storing a rotated image for placement arranged so that a rotated background subject image is included in a rectangular transparent background image composed of sides parallel to the outer edge side of the background image;
When an edit input for rotating a subject image with a background and placing it on a background image is received, the rotation image for placement stored corresponding to the rotation information specified by the edit input is used as the given background image. Place and
When the distance between a given side constituting the outer edge of the rotation image for arrangement arranged at a position corresponding to the point position and a predetermined reference line has a predetermined relationship, the rotation image for arrangement is used as a reference line. On the other hand, an arrangement assist control process for arranging at a predetermined position is performed.

(3) The photo printing apparatus of the present invention
The subject image arrangement control means includes:
In consideration of the size information of the subject image with background to be arranged, a predetermined side that forms the outer edge of the subject image with background or the rotation image for placement arranged at a position corresponding to the point position and a predetermined side It is characterized by determining whether or not the distance from the reference line has a predetermined relationship.

(4) The photo printing apparatus of the present invention
The subject image arrangement control means includes:
When the distance between a predetermined side and a predetermined reference line constituting an outer edge of the background-attached subject image or the arrangement rotated image arranged at a position corresponding to the point position has a predetermined relationship, Display control is performed in which a subject image with a background or the rotation image for placement is slid from a position corresponding to a point position to a predetermined position with respect to a reference line.

(5) The photo printing apparatus of the present invention is
The subject image arrangement control means includes:
When the distance between a given side that constitutes the outer edge of the background-attached subject image arranged at a position corresponding to the point position or the rotation image for arrangement and a predetermined reference line is not in a predetermined relationship, The subject image with background or the rotated image for placement is placed at a position corresponding to the point position without performing placement assist processing.

For example, the subject image arrangement control means
Based on the x-coordinate or y-coordinate of the point position, when a subject image with background is arranged at a position corresponding to the point position, a given side that forms the outer edge of the subject image with background and a predetermined reference line It is determined whether or not the distance is smaller than the first value. If it is determined that the distance is larger, the subject image with the background may be arranged at the point position.

(6) The photo printing apparatus of the present invention
The subject image arrangement control means includes:
A predetermined reference line is set in parallel with the side constituting the outer edge of the given background image.

(7) The photo printing apparatus of the present invention
The subject image arrangement control means includes:
A predetermined reference line is set in parallel with a subject image with a background arranged by editing processing or a side constituting an outer edge of the rotation image for arrangement.

(8) The present invention
A program for controlling a photo printing apparatus that captures, edits and prints an image of a photographed subject,
Subject image capturing means for capturing a subject image captured by the imaging means;
Based on the edit input, the computer functions as an edit processing means for performing an edit process using the captured subject image and generating a print target image,
The subject image capturing means includes
Combine the captured subject image with a given background image to generate a background subject image,
The editing processing means includes
As an editing input to specify the placement position of a subject image with a background for a given background image displayed on the editing screen, a point position input by a pointing device to the editing screen is accepted. Subject image placement control means for placing the subject image on a given background image,
The subject image arrangement control means includes:
When the distance between a given side that forms the outer edge of the subject image with background arranged at a position corresponding to the point position and a predetermined reference line has a predetermined relationship, the subject image with background is An arrangement assisting process for arranging at a predetermined position with respect to the reference line is performed.

(9) The present invention
A program for controlling a photo printing apparatus that captures, edits and prints an image of a photographed subject,
Subject image capturing means for capturing a subject image captured by the imaging means;
Based on the edit input, the computer functions as an edit processing means for performing an edit process using the captured subject image and generating a print target image,
The subject image capturing means includes
Combine the captured subject image with a given background image to generate a background subject image,
The editing processing means includes
As an editing input to specify the placement position of a subject image with a background for a given background image displayed on the editing screen, a point position input by a pointing device to the editing screen is accepted. Subject image placement control means for placing the subject image on a given background image,
The subject image arrangement control means includes:
Storing a rotated image for placement arranged so that a rotated background subject image is included in a rectangular transparent background image composed of sides parallel to the outer edge side of the background image;
When an edit input for rotating a subject image with a background and placing it on a background image is received, the rotation image for placement stored corresponding to the rotation information specified by the edit input is used as the given background image. Place and
When the distance between a given side constituting the outer edge of the rotation image for arrangement arranged at a position corresponding to the point position and a predetermined reference line has a predetermined relationship, the rotation image for arrangement is used as a reference line. On the other hand, an arrangement assist control process for arranging at a predetermined position is performed.

(10) The present invention
A computer-readable information storage medium in which the program described above is stored.

(11) The present invention
A photo printing method that captures, edits, and prints an image of a photographed subject,
A subject image capturing step for capturing a subject image captured by the imaging means;
An edit processing step for generating an image to be printed by performing an edit process using the captured subject image based on the edit input,
In the subject image capturing step,
Combine the captured subject image with a given background image to generate a background subject image,
In the editing process step,
As an editing input to specify the placement position of a subject image with a background for a given background image displayed on the editing screen, a point position input by a pointing device to the editing screen is accepted. A subject image placement control step for placing the subject image on a given background image,
In the subject image arrangement control step,
When the distance between a given side that forms the outer edge of the subject image with background arranged at a position corresponding to the point position and a predetermined reference line has a predetermined relationship, the subject image with background is An arrangement assisting process for arranging at a predetermined position with respect to the reference line is performed.

(12) The present invention
A photo printing method that captures, edits, and prints an image of a photographed subject,
A subject image capturing step for capturing a subject image captured by the imaging means;
An editing process step of generating an image to be printed by performing an editing process using the captured subject image based on the editing input,
In the subject image capturing step,
Combine the captured subject image with a given background image to generate a background subject image,
The editing process step includes:
As an editing input to specify the placement position of a subject image with a background for a given background image displayed on the editing screen, it accepts a point position input by a pointing device to the editing screen, and based on the point position, with a background A subject image placement control step for placing the subject image on a given background image,
The subject image arrangement control step includes:
Storing a rotated image for placement arranged so that a rotated background subject image is included in a rectangular transparent background image composed of sides parallel to the outer edge side of the background image;
When an edit input for rotating a subject image with a background and placing it on a background image is received, the rotation image for placement stored corresponding to the rotation information specified by the edit input is used as the given background image. Place and
When the distance between a given side constituting the outer edge of the rotation image for arrangement arranged at a position corresponding to the point position and a predetermined reference line has a predetermined relationship, the arrangement rotation image is used as a reference line. On the other hand, an arrangement assist control process for arranging at a predetermined position is performed.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

1. Configuration of Photo Printing Apparatus FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the appearance of a photo printing apparatus PM (an example of an image printing apparatus) according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the photo printing apparatus PM of the present embodiment includes a price receiving unit RM, an imaging unit CM, an editing operation receiving unit EM, and a photo sticker providing unit PB.

  The price accepting unit RM shown in FIG. 1 is the first contact when the user uses the photographic printing apparatus PM of the present embodiment, and is used to input a price for using the photographic printing apparatus PM. . In the present embodiment, a speaker SP is provided in the front middle part of the price receiving unit RM, and the price is given to a user who is located in a receiving area RA (an example of a first area) that is a front area of the price receiving unit RM. A voice that guides the user to input is output. In addition, a reception monitor RMN is provided above the speaker SP, and an image for notifying whether or not the imaging unit CM is being used by a previous user is displayed to a user located in the reception area RA. . A coin insertion slot CI is provided at the lower front portion of the price reception unit RM so as to receive a price insertion from a user located in the reception area RA.

  In addition, a reception illumination unit RL (an example of an illumination unit) that illuminates a user located in the reception area RA is provided on the front upper portion and the front middle portion of the price reception unit RM. The reception illumination unit RL is controlled to light up when the user inserts all or part of the price into the coin insertion slot CI.

In addition, a mirror MR (an example of a mirror body) that reflects the appearance of the user illuminated by the reception illumination unit RL is provided between the upper reception illumination unit RL and the middle reception illumination unit RL. That is, the mirror MR is provided so as to reflect the appearance of the user located in the reception area RA. As described above, in this embodiment, the user places the price in the coin insertion slot CI in the reception area RA. Then, the reception illumination unit RL illuminates the user located in the reception area RA. Therefore, the user can confirm the state of the hair and clothes before capturing an image in the imaging unit CM by viewing his / her appearance reflected in the mirror MR while being illuminated in the reception area RA.

  Then, when a predetermined time elapses after the reception illumination unit RL is turned on, or when the imaging transition button BT provided in the middle front part of the price reception unit RM is pressed by the user, the reception illumination unit RL is controlled to be turned off. Is done. Then, a voice that guides the user located in the reception area RA to move to the imaging area CA (an example of the second area) that is a front area of the imaging unit CM is output from the speaker SP.

  The imaging unit CM illustrated in FIG. 1 is for capturing an image of a user who has input a price to the above-described price receiving unit RM, and is provided at a position different from the above-described price receiving unit RM. Yes. In the present embodiment, the imaging unit CM is covered with the sheet ST so that surrounding scenery does not appear in the background of the image, and so that the user being imaged cannot be seen from the surroundings. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the photographic printing apparatus PM of the present embodiment with the sheet ST removed so that the front surface of the imaging unit CM is right front.

  As shown in FIG. 2, a camera CR that captures an image of a user located in the imaging area CA is provided at the upper front of the imaging unit CM. This camera CR is operated by the next user on the condition that the next user has put all of the price into the coin insertion slot CI of the price receiving unit RM and that the imaging of the previous user has been completed. Control is performed so as to start capturing an image based on the input or the passage of a predetermined time.

  In addition, an imaging illumination unit CL that illuminates a user located in the imaging area CA is provided from the upper front to the middle of the imaging unit CM. The imaging illumination unit CL is controlled so as to be lit when the camera CR starts capturing an image of the user. Then, the camera CR is controlled to continue to illuminate the user while the user's image is captured.

  In addition, an imaging monitor CMN (an example of a display unit) that displays an image captured by the camera CR to a user located in the imaging area CA is provided in the front middle part of the imaging unit CM. In the present embodiment, when the camera CR starts capturing an image, the imaging monitor CMN displays the user's image located in the imaging area CA as a real-time moving image. As a result, the user can confirm the user's image captured by the camera CR on the imaging monitor CMN.

  The imaging monitor CMN is configured by a touch panel monitor in which touch sensor panels capable of detecting a contact position are stacked, and a user can input an operation by touching the imaging monitor CMN.

  Then, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of image capturing of the user, the image capturing of the user is terminated. Then, an image that guides the user located in the imaging area CA to move to the editing area EA (an example of a third area) that is the front area of the editing operation reception unit EM is displayed on the imaging monitor CMN. Let

  The editing operation accepting unit EM illustrated in FIG. 1 is for a user who has captured an image in the above-described imaging unit CM to perform an operation for editing the captured image, and is located at a position different from that of the above-described imaging unit CM. Is provided. In the present embodiment, the editing operation reception unit EM is covered with the sheet ST so that the user who is performing the editing operation cannot see from the surroundings. In particular, in the present embodiment, a first editing operation receiving unit EM1 and a second editing operation receiving unit EM2 are provided as the editing operation receiving unit EM. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the photographic printing apparatus PM of the present embodiment with the sheet ST removed so that the front surface of the first editing operation accepting unit EM1 is right front.

  As shown in FIG. 3, a user located in an editing area EA1 (an example of a third area) that is an area on the front side of the first editing operation accepting unit EM1 is located at the front center part of the first editing operation accepting part EM1. On the other hand, there is provided a touch panel type editing monitor EMN that displays an image determined as a still image to be printed on a sticker and receives an operation for editing the displayed image.

  In this embodiment, touch pens TP are prepared on the left and right sides of the editing monitor EMN, respectively, and the user makes a line to be combined with the determined image by bringing the tip of the touch pen TP into contact with an arbitrary position of the editing monitor EMN. Draw a figure, select a pattern or a template of a pattern (stamp image), place it on the image, and edit the still image to be printed on the sticker.

  In the present embodiment, a second editing operation receiving unit EM2 having the same configuration as the first editing operation receiving unit EM1 is provided on the back side of the first editing operation receiving unit EM1 shown in FIG. The image displayed while displaying the image determined as the still image to be printed on the sticker for the user located in the editing area EA2 (an example of the fourth area) that is the area on the front side of the editing operation accepting unit EM2 of No. 2 Accepts operations for editing.

  Then, when a predetermined time elapses after the acceptance of the image editing operation is started or the end of the editing operation is selected by the user's operation, the acceptance of the image editing operation is finished. Then, the user located in the editing area EA1 or the editing area EA2 moves to a take-out area PA (an example of a fifth area) that is a front side area of the photo sticker providing unit PB (an example of a printed matter providing unit). The image to be guided to is displayed on the editing monitor EMN.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the left side surface of the first editing operation accepting unit EM1 is provided with a photo sticker providing unit PB that provides a user with a photo sticker (an example of a printed material) in which an edited image is printed on a sticker. It has been. In the present embodiment, a photo sticker outlet PO is provided in front of the photo sticker providing part PB so as to provide a photo sticker to a user located in the take-out area PA.

As described above, in the photo printing apparatus PM of the present embodiment, the price receiving unit RM, the imaging unit CM, the first editing operation receiving unit EM1, the second editing operation receiving unit EM2, and the photo sticker providing unit PB Are provided at different positions. Accordingly, in the present embodiment, the user located in the reception area RA is allowed to input a price and check the state of the hair and clothes, the user located in the imaging area CA is to take an image, and the editing areas EA1 and EA2 A service is provided to up to five (5 sets) users at the same time in five areas, such as by allowing the users located in the area to perform image editing operations and providing photo stickers to the users located in the extraction area PA. Can be provided. In this way, in the photo printing apparatus PM of the present embodiment, a service corresponding to each area is simultaneously provided to a plurality of users, thereby shortening the waiting time for the users.
FIG. 4 is an example of a block diagram of the photo printing apparatus of the present embodiment. Note that the photo printing apparatus does not have to include all the components (respective parts) in FIG. 4, and may be configured such that some of them are omitted.

  The photographing unit 140 is for photographing a subject, and can be realized by, for example, a CCD camera, a C-MOS camera, or a video camera, and functions as a subject subject image capturing unit.

  An operation unit 160 (a pointing device, a lever, a button, or the like) is used by the user to perform a selection operation or an editing operation of the editing content selection menu. In the present embodiment, the movement trajectory of the pointing device is detected and the placement control of the subject image with the background is performed.

  The storage unit 170 (RAM) is a work area such as the processing unit 100 or the communication unit 196. An information storage medium 180 (a computer-readable medium such as a CD, DVD, HDD, or ROM) stores programs and data. The information storage medium 180 stores a program for causing a computer to function as each unit of the present embodiment (a program for causing a computer to execute processing of each unit).

  The display 190 displays an image, and is, for example, a display editing display for photographing. As the editing display, for example, a liquid crystal tablet, a touch panel, or the like is used, and a handwritten image can be input by drawing a character or a figure by bringing the tip of a touch pen (an example of a pointing device) into contact with the display surface. . Further, a stamp image such as a star mark or a heart mark prepared in advance is selected, and the stamp image can be input by bringing the tip of the touch pen into contact with the display surface.

  The sound output unit 192 outputs sound such as voice.

  The portable information storage device 194 stores user personal data, save data for editing, and the like.

  The printing unit 195 performs processing for printing the captured image on a print medium (seal paper, photographic paper, plastic plate, or recording layer). In this case, there are various printing methods such as a sublimation type, a thermal transfer type, an ink jet method, and a laser printing method. As the printer for printing, an ink jet printer, a laser printer, a sublimation printer, a thermal transfer printer, a melt printer, a thermal printer, a photographic paper printer, an instant film printer, or the like may be used.

  The processing unit 100 (processor) performs various processes such as a game process, an image generation process, and a sound generation process based on operation data from the operation unit 160, a program, and the like. In this case, the processing unit 100 performs various processes using the main storage unit 172 in the storage unit 170 as a work area. The function of the processing unit 100 can be realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.) or ASIC (gate array, etc.) and programs.

  The processing unit 100 includes a subject image capture processing unit 110, an editing processing unit 120, an image generation unit 130, and a sound generation unit 140.

  The subject image capture processing unit 110 captures a subject image captured by the imaging unit, and combines the captured subject image with a given background image to generate a background subject image. Further, at least one of processing for extracting a background from a captured subject image and generating a subject image without a background, and processing for generating a background subject image by, for example, chroma key combining the captured subject image with a given background image May be performed.

Here, the editing processing unit 110 functions as an editing processing unit that generates an image to be printed by performing an editing process using the captured subject image based on an editing input that is input from the editing display with a touch pen or the like. The editing processing unit 120 includes a subject image arrangement editing processing unit 122, a subject image arrangement control processing unit 124, and an editing end control processing 126.

  The subject image arrangement editing processing unit 122 performs a process of arranging the subject image with background on a given background image.

  The subject image layout editing processing unit 122 may use a subject image with a background as a given background image.

  The subject image arrangement editing processing unit 122 accepts a print target selection input for selecting a print target from a background image group including a plurality of background-added subject images, and determines a subject image arrangement edit processing target based on the print target selection input. A background image to be determined may be determined.

  The subject image arrangement editing processing unit 122 accepts designation or change input of an image and size to be arranged on the background image from a plurality of subject images with background, and designates or changes the designated subject image with background. May be arranged in a given background image with a determined size.

  The subject image arrangement editing processing unit 122 may generate a print target image by arranging a subject image without background or a subject image with background on a predetermined base image prepared in advance.

  The subject image arrangement control processing unit 124 accepts a point position input by a pointing device with respect to the editing screen as an editing input for designating an arrangement position of a subject image with a background with respect to a given background image displayed on the editing screen. Based on the point position, the background subject image is controlled to be arranged in a given background image, and the given edge image is configured as an outer edge of the background subject image arranged at a position corresponding to the point position. If the distance between the side and the predetermined reference line is in a predetermined relationship, an arrangement assist process is performed for arranging the subject image with the background at a predetermined position with respect to the reference line.

  The subject image arrangement control processing unit 124 takes into account the size information of the subject image with the background to be arranged, and gives a given side constituting the outer edge of the subject image with the background arranged at a position corresponding to the point position It may be determined whether or not the distance between and a predetermined reference line has a predetermined relationship.

  The subject image arrangement control processing unit 124, when the distance between a given side constituting the outer edge of the subject image with background arranged at a position corresponding to the point position and a predetermined reference line has a predetermined relationship. May perform display control for sliding the subject image with the background from a position corresponding to the point position of the subject image with the background to a predetermined position with respect to a reference line.

  In addition, the subject image arrangement control processing unit 124, when the distance between a given side constituting the outer edge of the subject image with background arranged at a position corresponding to the point position and a predetermined reference line does not have a predetermined relationship Alternatively, the subject image with background may be arranged at a position corresponding to the point position without performing the arrangement assist processing.

  Further, the subject image arrangement control processing unit 124 may set a predetermined reference line in parallel with the side constituting the outer edge of the given background image.

  In addition, the subject image arrangement control processing unit 124 may set a predetermined reference line in parallel with the side that forms the outer edge of the subject image with background arranged by the editing process.

  The subject image arrangement control processing unit 124 is arranged so that the rotated subject image with the background is included in a rectangular transparent background image composed of sides parallel to the outer edge side of the background image. When the editing input for storing the rotated image for the image and receiving the editing input for rotating the subject image with the background and arranging it on the background image is stored in correspondence with the rotation information designated by the editing input Rotational arrangement control may be performed to arrange the image on a given background image. As rotation arrangement control, if the distance between a given side constituting the outer edge of the arrangement rotation image arranged at a position corresponding to the point position and a predetermined reference line has a predetermined relationship, the rotation for arrangement is performed. An arrangement assist control process for arranging the image at a predetermined position with respect to the reference line may be performed.

  The edit end control process 126 may determine an edit end condition including whether or not there has been an operation input for performing an edit input for a predetermined period, and end the edit input acceptance based on the determination result.

  Further, the editing end control process 126 may determine that there is no operation input for performing the editing input when the contact with the input screen for editing the pointing for performing the editing input is not detected for the predetermined period. .

  The editing end control process 126 determines whether or not the editing operation input performed at a predetermined timing is completed (for example, when one operation input is completed, the type of operation input is switched, or a series of continuous operations is performed). It is also possible to determine an editing end condition including a case where the operation is completed and end the editing input acceptance based on the determination result.

  The editing end control process 126 may determine the editing end condition in an extension period when the editing time is extended, or an end determination period after a predetermined period has elapsed since the start of editing.

  Further, the edit end control process 126 determines an edit end condition including whether or not the extension period when the edit time is extended or the end determination period after the elapse of a predetermined period from the start of editing has reached a predetermined time limit. The acceptance of editing input may be terminated based on the determination result.

  The image generation unit 130 generates an image based on the results of various editing processes performed by the editing processing unit 120 and outputs the image to the display 190.

  The sound generation unit 140 performs sound processing based on the results of various processes performed by the processing unit 100, generates BGM, sound effects, or sound, and outputs the generated sound to the sound output unit 192.

  The photo printing apparatus includes a communication unit 196. The communication unit 196 performs processing for transmitting or receiving data via a network such as the Internet.

  At the time of editing, the communication unit 196 transmits at least one of a subject image, a subject image with a background, a subject image without a background, a print target image being edited, and an edited print target image to a mobile device having a wireless reception function. It functions as a wireless transmission means.

  In addition, the communication unit 196 may transmit image data generated from a captured image of the camera to an external server or the like via a network. In this way, the user (subject) can download image data of the subject himself / herself from the server to the personal computer of his / her home. Based on the downloaded image data, it is possible to print and output an image on paper or a sticker using a printer at home. It is also possible to store images taken by the user on a server, download them to a photo printing apparatus, print them, and output them.

  The function of the communication unit 196 can be realized by hardware such as a communication device (IC), a communication program, or the like. Note that either the printing unit 195 or the communication unit 196 may be omitted.

  Note that the photo printing apparatus according to the present embodiment is not limited to the one that shoots the entire body of the subject, and may shoot only the upper body of the subject.

  The subject photographed by the photo printing apparatus of the present embodiment is not limited to a human being. For example, the present embodiment can be applied to an apparatus that takes a photograph of a product to be exhibited at an auction or the like. In this case, if the transmission of the image data via the Internet using the communication unit 196 and the auction exhibition are linked, a photo printing apparatus convenient for the exhibitor can be provided.

  The photo printing apparatus of this embodiment can also be used for a game apparatus of a type that uses a photo image of a player in a game. That is, the photo printing apparatus of the present embodiment can be made to function as an image capturing device of a game device.

2. Subject Image Capture Processing FIGS. 26A and 26B are diagrams for describing a background-less subject image and a background-subjected subject image.

    As shown in FIG. 26A, in the present embodiment, a subject image 360 photographed by the imaging unit is captured, and a backgroundless subject image 370 is generated from the captured subject image 360. Then, as shown in FIG. 26B, the background-free subject image 370 is combined with the given background image 380 to generate a background-added subject image 390.

  The backgroundless subject image 370 is an image in which the background portion is extracted from the image captured by the camera by the chroma key process (for example, transparency is set as the α value of the pixels in the background portion). Note that when the subject image is taken in an overlapping manner, the background portion is extracted from the superimposed image.

  In the above-described embodiment, the case where the background image is arranged behind the subject image has been described as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to the case and includes an image arranged as the foreground of the subject image. That is, a configuration in which an image including at least one of an image arranged in front of the subject image and an image arranged behind the subject image is combined as a background image is also within the scope of the present invention.

  In the above-described embodiment, the case where a captured subject image and a background image are combined with a chroma key to generate a background-added subject image has been described as an example. A subject image with a background may be generated by combining with a background image. Therefore, the subject image with background may be an image in which at least one of the background and the foreground is combined with at least a part of the subject image.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining generation processing of a background-less subject image and a background-subjected subject image in the shooting mode.

Accepting background pattern selection input (step S10)
An image obtained by extracting the background portion from the image of the subject captured by the imaging unit with the extracted color as the background is stored in the storage unit as a backgroundless subject image (step S20).

  The background image received by the background pattern selection input and the subject image without background are synthesized to generate a subject image with background and stored in the storage unit (step S30).

3. Subject Image Arrangement Editing Process Next, the subject image arrangement editing process will be described.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining the editing flow of the present embodiment.

  When the shooting mode is changed to the edit mode, first, a graffiti image selection screen (print candidate selection screen) as shown in FIG. 7 is displayed to accept selection input, and based on the selection input, a graffiti image to be used as a background image is determined ( Step S110).

  Next, a graffiti screen (edit screen) as shown in FIG. 8 is displayed to accept an edit input, and a print image is generated based on the edit input (step S120).

  Next, a layout selection screen is displayed to accept a layout pattern selection input, and a print image is arranged based on the selected layout pattern to generate image data for printing (step S130).

  Next, a mobile transmission screen as shown in FIG. 9 is displayed, and a selection of a transmission image is accepted and selected from a graffiti-free image (subject image with background) and a graffiti image (image obtained by editing the background image). The transmitted image is wirelessly transmitted to the portable device (step S140).

  FIG. 7 is an example of a graffiti image selection screen. The graffiti image selection screen 300 is displayed on the editing displays 22 and 24 in FIG. 3 after the shooting mode ends and the editing mode is entered (after the player moves from the shooting area to the editing area). A selection image or a button image on the screen is configured to allow selection input by touching a touch pen (an example of a pointing device) or the like.

  The graffiti image selection screen functions as a print candidate selection screen that accepts a print candidate selection input for selecting a print target from a group of background images including a plurality of subject images 310 with backgrounds and a collage background image 360 prepared in advance. . In this system, based on the selection input made here, a background image to be subject to subject image arrangement editing processing is determined.

  Reference numeral 310 denotes a thumbnail image of a group of captured images (background subject images obtained by combining a captured subject image with a given background image) captured by the user at the imaging booth. In the present embodiment, since up to 10 images can be taken at the time of shooting, thumbnail images of up to 10 shot images are displayed. For example, in the case of n sheets (n <10), thumbnail images of n photographed images are displayed.

  Reference numeral 360 denotes a collage base image prepared in advance.

  340 is a message display. As shown in the figure, the user selects y images from the thumbnail images 310 of the photographed image group and the collage base image 360 prepared in advance as base images (background images to be printed candidates). You can choose. Touch the photographed image to be selected with the touch pen to position the selection cursor 350, and touch the decision button image 320 with the touch pen to select the photographed image on which the selection cursor 350 is positioned as a postscript image (background image to be a printing candidate). can do.

  Reference numeral 350 denotes the currently selected number of sheets. For example, when the currently selected number is x and the maximum selectable number is y, “x / y selection” is displayed.

  Reference numeral 330 denotes a remaining time display of the time limit for selecting a graffiti image. When entering the graffiti image selection mode, the timer starts counting down the remaining time of the time limit. For example, the user may press the start button to shift to the graffiti selection mode, or may automatically shift to the graffiti selection mode when the shooting mode ends. When the remaining time becomes 0, the acceptance of the graffiti image selection input ends.

  When the user selects the maximum selectable number of sheets or when the remaining time of the time limit becomes 0, the graffiti image selection screen is terminated and the editing screen is displayed.

  If the user does not select any image within the time limit, the system may automatically select y images from the photographed image as a written image (background image to be printed) according to a predetermined rule. If the user selects only z images (z <y) within the time limit, yz or kz images (z <k <y) are used as a written image (print candidate). The background image may be automatically selected.

  FIG. 8 shows an example of a graffiti screen (editing screen).

In the present embodiment, two graffiti screens are prepared so that two users can perform editing processing in parallel, but description of the points prepared for two users is omitted.
Reference numeral 410 denotes an editing area. Reference numeral 420 denotes a thumbnail image of a written image (background image that is a printing candidate) selected on the graffiti image selection screen 300. Reference numeral 422 denotes a thumbnail image of a base image (for example, a plain background image) for collage prepared separately from the photographed image.

  Reference numeral 430 denotes a thumbnail image of the collage material image, which displays a thumbnail image of a group of captured images taken by the user at the shooting booth (a combined subject image with a given background image). The

  In this embodiment, a subject image with a background obtained by combining a subject image captured by the photographing unit with a given background image is used as a given background image (a subject image with a background selected as a print candidate or a collage prepared in advance. A printed image can be arranged on the base image).

  The collage material image 430 can be selected from large, medium, and small sizes.

  Reference numeral 440 denotes an angle change button image. By touching any one of the button images, the arrangement angle when the collage material image 430 is arranged on the background image can be changed.

  Reference numeral 470 denotes a “finished” button image. A user who has finished editing input earlier than the time limit can touch the finished button image 470 to end the editing input.

  Reference numeral 472 denotes a “delete all” button image, reference numeral 474 denotes a “return to one” button image, reference numeral 476 denotes an “eraser” button image, and reference numeral 478 denotes a “size” button image. By touching these button images, the editing process assigned to each button image can be performed, but detailed description is omitted.

  Reference numeral 450 denotes a portable transmission button image. When the portable transmission button image 450 is touched, the image being edited currently displayed in the editing area 410 during graffiti can be transmitted to the portable device.

  Reference numerals 460, 462, 464, and 466 are touch pen function change button images.

  Reference numeral 490 is a remaining time display of the time limit for editing input. When entering the edit input mode, the timer starts counting down the remaining time limit. For example, when the user presses the start button, the mode may shift to the edit input mode, or when the graffiti image selection mode ends, the mode may automatically shift to the edit input mode. When the remaining time becomes zero, the acceptance of the edit input selection input may be terminated, or the edit time may be extended. The extension of the editing time will be described in the editing end control process.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the mobile transmission screen after the graffiti ends.

  On the mobile transmission screen 500, a thumbnail image 510 of an image without graffiti and 520 thumbnail images of an image with graffiti are displayed. A graffiti-free image is a subject image with a background (material image for collage) generated based on a subject image photographed by an imaging unit, and an image with graffiti is an edited image (printed image) obtained by performing editing processing on a base image It is.

  By touching the image to be sent to the mobile device from the images without graffiti and the images with graffiti, the selection frame 530 is positioned, and items to be specified at transmission (specification of the portable media to be transmitted) and options (specification of the size of the transmission image) Etc.) By selecting 540 and touching the transmission button 550, the image in which the selection frame 530 is positioned can be transmitted to the portable device. During communication with the mobile device, the mobile device may be set near a predetermined position.

  10, FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 are diagrams for explaining the subject image arrangement editing process of the present embodiment.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining processing for arranging the second background-attached subject image (collage material image) on the first background-subjected subject image (background image).

  The work editing area 600 is an editing area drawing buffer set corresponding to the editing area 410 in a part of the image memory, for example, and the image written in the editing area drawing buffer is edited in a graffiti (editing screen). Output to area 410.

  When a background image is selected on the editing screen, a first background subject image 610 corresponding to the selected background image is written in the work editing area 600-1, and the work editing area is in a state 600-2. When the second background subject image 620 is selected as the collage image and the point position P is designated as the arrangement position, the second image is displayed at the position corresponding to the point position P on the base image as indicated by 600-3. A composite image in which the background subject image 620 is arranged is generated.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the first background subject image is used as the background image, the second background subject image is used as the collage material image, and the first background subject image is placed on the first background subject image. A composite image in which two background subject images are arranged can be generated as a print image.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram for describing processing for arranging a subject image with a background on a predetermined base image prepared in advance.

  When a background image is selected on the editing screen, a background image 612 corresponding to the selected background image is written into the work editing area 600-1, and the work editing area is in a state 600-2. When the background subject image 620 is selected as the collage image and the point position P is designated as the arrangement position, the background subject image 620 is displayed at a position corresponding to the point position P on the base image as shown in 600-3. An arranged composite image is generated.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, not a photographed image but a preliminarily prepared predetermined background image is used, a backgrounded subject image is used as a collage material image, and a predetermined base image prepared in advance is used. A synthesized image in which a subject image with a background is arranged can be generated as a print image.

  FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining the function of changing the size of the subject image with background to be arranged.

  When a background image is selected on the editing screen, a first background subject image 610 corresponding to the selected background image is written in the work editing area 600-1, and the work editing area is in a state 600-2. When the second background subject image 620 is selected as the collage image, the size is changed to the same size as the background image, and the center region of the first background subject image indicated by 600-2 is designated, 600 As shown in -3, a composite image in which the second background subject image 620 is overwritten on the base image is generated.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the designation or change input of the image to be placed on the background image and the size or the change input is accepted, and the specified background image is specified or changed, and the given background image is specified. Can be placed. It is also possible to specify the same size as the background image. In this case, the background subject image is completely overlapped with the background image, so that the background image can be substantially replaced with another background subject image. .

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the flow of subject image layout editing processing of the present embodiment.

The image of the subject image with the background selected on the graffiti image selection screen (print candidate selection screen) is displayed in the image field for collage, and a group of captured images taken by the user at the shooting booth (the captured subject image is given background) A control is performed to display a graffiti screen (editing screen) displayed in the collage material image column for the thumbnail image of the subject image with the background combined with the image (step S210).
When there is a designation input of a collage image to be edited (step S220),
Control to write the background subject image corresponding to the thumbnail image specified as the collage image to be edited to the editing work area and display the updated editing work area in the editing area of the editing screen. This is performed (step S230).

  When the arrangement input of the collage material image is received (step S240), the image of the size currently selected from the background subject image corresponding to the selected collage image is written and updated in the work area for editing. Control is performed to display the edited work area for editing in the edit area of the edit screen (step S250).

4). Subject Image Arrangement Control Process FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining the subject image arrangement control process.

  In the present embodiment, when any thumbnail image in the Rakusho image (background image to be printed) column is touched with a touch pen or the like on the editing screen as shown in FIG. 8, the background image corresponding to the thumbnail image is displayed. Is displayed in the editing area 410. In addition, any thumbnail image displayed in the material image field for collage is touched with a touch pen or the like, and a desired arrangement position on the editing area 410 is pointed with the touch pen or the like (position input is performed by touch). The selected collage material image is arranged at a position corresponding to the point position of the base image (hereinafter referred to as a point position).

  For example, an editing area drawing buffer corresponding to the editing area 410 may be set in a part of the image memory, and an image written in the editing area drawing buffer may be output to the editing area 410.

  When the editing area 410 is pointed with a touch pen or the like, the coordinate value of the point position is detected. The coordinate values on the screen and the coordinate values in the editing area drawing buffer are converted and processed because they have different coordinate systems. The point position coordinates used in the following description will be described as the position coordinates in the editing area drawing buffer corresponding to the point position on the screen.

  Reference numeral 700 denotes a base image, and reference numeral 702 denotes an outer edge (rectangle) of the base image. Reference numeral 720 denotes a background-subjected subject image, reference numeral 722 denotes a representative point of the background-subjected subject image (a point that matches the position coordinates when the background-subjected subject image is arranged, that is, a point that becomes the position coordinates of the background-subjected subject image), and 724 Is the outer edge of the subject image with the background (it may be a rectangle composed of sides parallel to the edge constituting the outer edge of the background image), and 726 is a given side constituting the outer edge (rectangle) of the subject image with background is there.

  Reference numeral 710 denotes a predetermined reference line, which may be set in parallel with a side constituting the outer edge 702 of a given background image 700 or a side constituting the outer edge as a predetermined reference line.

  In the present embodiment, a point position input to the editing area 410 using a touch pen or the like is received, and a subject image 720 with a background is arranged in a given background image 700 based on the point position (corresponding position on the image buffer). Subject image layout control processing is performed (overwriting).

  P is a point position on the base image corresponding to the point position of the editing area 410 (point position on the editing area drawing buffer).

  In the present embodiment, the distance between a given side 726 constituting the outer edge 724 of the subject image 720 with background arranged at a position corresponding to the point position P and a predetermined reference line 710 has a predetermined relationship. In this case, an arrangement assist process for arranging the subject image 720 with the background at a predetermined position with respect to the reference line 710 is performed.

  For example, a distance l between a given side (here, 726) constituting the outer edge 724 of the subject image 720 with the background arranged at a position corresponding to the point position P and a predetermined reference line 710 is a first value L1. When the distance is smaller, the subject image 720 with the background may be slid and arranged at a position where the distance becomes a second value (here, 0) smaller than the first value L1.

  As shown in FIG. 14A, when l> L1, a subject image 720 with a background is placed at the point position P. That is, the representative point 722 of the subject image 720 with the background coincides with the point position P.

  Here, for example, when the user moves the point position of the editing area to the left, the point position P also moves to the left as indicated by 730. In such a case, display control may be performed in which the subject image 720 with the background moves following the point position P of the touch pen on the editing screen.

  When the point position P moves to s1 (the x coordinate of the point position becomes equal to s1), the distance between the side 726 of the subject image 720 with the background and a predetermined reference line 710 as shown in FIG. l becomes equal to the first value L1. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 14C, a placement assist process is performed in which the background subject image 720 is slid and placed at a position where the distance is a second value (here, 0) that is smaller than the first value L1. Do. The subject image 720 with background may be slid and arranged at a position where the side 726 of the subject image 720 with background and a predetermined reference line 710 overlap.

  In this case, since the placement control is performed so that the representative point 722 of the subject image 720 with the background is arranged at a position different from the point position P, when the point position of the touch pen reaches the line s1 on the editing screen, the touch point is followed until then. Thus, display control is performed in which the subject image 720 with the background that has been moved automatically moves toward a predetermined reference line 710 (display control that moves instantaneously may be used, or display that moves over a plurality of frames). Control).

  When the first point position of the touch pen is on the left side of the line s1, the subject image 720 with the background is arranged in the state shown in FIG.

  Next, when the point position P of the touch pen is further leftward, as shown in FIG. 15A, the side 726 of the subject image 720 with the background comes outside the base image 700, but the side 726 is inside the base image. If the distance l ′ to the predetermined reference line 710 is smaller than the first value L1, the distance l ′ is smaller than the first value (in this case, 0). Arrangement assist processing is performed for arranging a subject image 720 with a background at the position.

  Therefore, in the case of FIG. 15A, the subject image 720 with the background is arranged in the state shown in FIG. 14C, as in the case of FIG. 14B.

  FIG. 15A shows a case where the distance l ′ from the predetermined reference line 710 is equal to the first value L1. If the x coordinate value s2 of the point position of P at this time is, the subject image with the background arranged at the position corresponding to the point position P while the x coordinate value of the point position P is from s1 to s2. Since the distances l and l ′ between a given side (here, 726) constituting the outer edge 724 of 720 and the predetermined reference line 710 are smaller than the first value L1, the subject image 720 with the background is shown in FIG. It arrange | positions in the state of (C).

  Also, as shown in FIG. 15B, when the point position P moves further left than s2, a given side constituting the outer edge 724 of the subject image 720 with the background arranged at a position corresponding to the point position P. Since the distance l between (here, 726) and the predetermined reference line 710 is greater than the first value L1, a subject image 720 with a background is placed at the point position P. Therefore, the representative point 722 of the subject image 720 with the background again coincides with the point position P.

  FIGS. 16A and 16B are diagrams for explaining the arrangement of subject images with backgrounds having different sizes. Here, a case where two background subject images 720-1 and 720-2 having different sizes are arranged in a given background image 700 will be described. The background subject image 720-1 is an image whose distance from the representative point 722-1 to the vertical side 726-1 is K1, and the background subject image 720-2 is the vertical direction from the representative point 722-2. This is an image whose distance to the side 726-2 is K2. One side constituting the outer edge 702 of the base image 720 is defined as a predetermined reference line 710.

  FIG. 16A is a diagram in the case where the background subject image 720-1 is arranged at the point position P of the background image, and the distance l1 between the side 726-1 of the background subject image and the reference line is a first value. Since it is larger than L1, it is not a target of the placement assist process.

  FIG. 16B is a diagram in the case where the background subject image 720-2 is arranged at the point position P of the background image, and the distance l2 between the side 726-2 of the background subject image and the reference line is a first value. Since it is smaller than L1, it becomes a target of the placement assist process, and the background subject image is slid to the position at 720-2 ′. In this way, whether or not to be subject to the placement assist process varies depending on the size of the background subject image to be placed, even if placed at the same point position P.

  Therefore, in the case of a configuration in which a plurality of subject images with backgrounds of different sizes can be selected and placed, the size information of the subject images with backgrounds to be placed is taken into consideration and placed at a position corresponding to the point position. Further, it may be determined whether or not the distance between a given side constituting the outer edge of the subject image with background and a predetermined reference line is smaller than a first value.

  For example, the distance from the reference line 710 to the representative points 722-1 and 722-1 of the background subject image is M, size information K1 and K2 (in this case, the length of the side in the horizontal direction of the background subject image). (1/2 value), the distances 11 and 12 between the representative points 722-1 and 722-1 of the subject image with the background and the reference line are given by M-K1 and M-K2. Therefore, when M−K1 ≦ L1 and M−K2 ≦ L1, the object may be a slide movement target.

  17A and 17B are diagrams for explaining the relationship between the point position and the presence / absence of the placement assist process.

  Given the size information K1 and the point position P of the background subject image 720 to be placed, it can be determined whether or not the subject is subject to placement assist processing.

  For example, when the size information of the background subject image is K1 as shown in FIG. 16A, the reference line 710-1 is set as the y axis (x = 0) as shown in FIG. 17A. If the side 726-1 of the subject image 720-1 with the background is in the area 810 sandwiched between the lines x = q0 and x = q1 at the distance L1 on the left and right across the 710-1, the placement assist processing target Become. Accordingly, if the x-coordinate x0 when the side 726-1 of the background subject image with the size information K1 overlaps the line q0 and the x-coordinate x1 when the side 726-1 of the background subject image overlaps the line g1, the size information When the subject image with background of K1 is arranged, it may be determined that the object is an assist arrangement target if the x coordinate locus of the point position is x0 ≦ x ≦ x1.

  Similarly, for example, when the size information of the background subject image is k2 as shown in FIG. 16B, the side of the background subject image 720-2 is displayed in the area 810 between the lines x = q0 and x = q1. When 726-2 is inserted, it becomes a target of the placement assist process. Accordingly, when the side 726-2 of the background subject image with size information K2 overlaps with the line q0 and the x coordinate x3 when the side 726-2 of the background subject image overlaps with the line g2, the size information is assumed. When the subject image 720-2 with the background of K2 is arranged, it may be determined that the object is an assist arrangement target if the x coordinate locus of the point position P is x2 ≦ x ≦ x3.

  FIG. 24 is an example of a correspondence table between each reference line and the arrangement assist condition. The reference line / placement assist condition correspondence table 560 may store, for example, the direction 564, the position 566, and the placement assist condition 668 of the reference line no 562. The direction 564 is information indicating whether the reference line is a line parallel to the X axis (horizontal axis) or the Y axis (vertical axis). For example, the reference line in FIG. 17 is parallel to the Y axis. Y is set. Further, the x or y coordinate of the reference line is set as the position. For example, in the case of the reference line of FIG. 17, 0 is set because y = 0. In addition, the arrangement assist condition 568 is set for each arrangement image size, and the value of the coordinates of the point position that is to be dealt with in the arrangement assistance processing when an image having the arrangement image size is arranged is set. For example, as shown in FIG. 17A, when the arrangement image size is K1 (arrangement image size 1), x0 ≦ x ≦ x1 is set, and as shown in FIG. 17B, the arrangement image size is K2 (arrangement image). When the image size is 2), x2 ≦ x ≦ x3 may be set.

  Further, when the background subject image is rotated and arranged, a rotation image for placement is used as described with reference to FIG. 21, and therefore, it may be treated the same as when the placement image size is different.

  When the reference line is a side of the background image, the arrangement assist condition can be calculated in advance, and may be set in advance. In addition, when a predetermined reference line is set in parallel with the side constituting the outer edge of the subject image with background arranged by the editing process, it may be dynamically generated after being set. When the reference line is in parallel with the background image, the calculation is simple. Therefore, only the arrangement assist condition corresponding to the side of the background image is created, and the calculation may be performed based on this.

  18A to 18C are diagrams for explaining specific examples and effects of the background-assisted processing according to the present embodiment.

  FIG. 18A shows an arrangement example in which a plurality of background-attached subject images 720-1, 720-2, and 720-3 are arranged with respect to the base image 700 on the editing screen in a system without an arrangement assist function. For example, when the user intends to arrange a plurality of background subject images 720-1, 720-2, and 720-3 along a given side 704 of the base image, the user moves the touch pen on the editing screen. The subject image with background 720-1 to be arranged can be moved. The subject image with background 720-1 is finally arranged at the point position P1 pointed to by the touch pen. Similarly, the background subject image 720-2 is finally placed at the point position P2 pointed to by the touch pen, and the background subject image 720-3 is finally placed at the point position P3 pointed to by the touch pen. Here, since the respective point positions P1, P2, and P3 are not in a straight line, the subject images with backgrounds 720-1, 720-2, and 720-3 are cluttered. In order to arrange them neatly, it is necessary to arrange each point position P1, P2, P3 so as to be in a straight line, but the user manually places the points P1, P2, P3 in a straight line within a limited editing time. So difficult to point.

  In the present embodiment, the placement assist process is performed in a predetermined case. Therefore, for example, as shown in FIG. 18B, subject images with backgrounds 720-1, 720-2, It is possible to arrange 720-3 in an orderly manner. In order to realize such arrangement assistance, when the background image side 704 is set to the reference line KL, each background-attached subject image 720-1, 720-2, 720-3 is within a predetermined distance L1 from the reference line. When the sides 726-1, 726-2, and 726-3 are inserted, the background images 720-1, 720-2, and 720-3 have sides 726-1 and 726 as shown in FIG. 18B. The placement assist process is performed so that 2,726-3 overlaps the reference line KL. The user simply moves the subject images with backgrounds 720-1, 720-2, 720-3 toward the reference line, and the sides 726-1 of each subject image 720-1, 720-2, 720-3, When 726-2 and 726-3 reach the line g0 (the line whose distance in the x direction from the reference line KL is L1), each of the subject images 720-1, 720-2 and 720-3 with the background is shown in FIG. Automatically slide to the position. Therefore, the user can arrange the subject images 720-1, 720-2, and 720-3 with the background as shown in FIG. 18B without performing troublesome alignment by the point positions P1, P2, and P3. it can.

  FIG. 18C shows an example in which the reference line KL parallel to the side 704 of the background image is set at a position away from the side 704 by a predetermined distance. In this way, the background subject image can be arranged side by side at a predetermined position (offset OS is provided) from the side 704 of the background image.

  19A to 19C are diagrams for explaining specific examples and effects of the background-assisted processing according to the present embodiment. In FIGS. 19A to 19C, the case where the reference line KL parallel to the vertical side of the background image is set as an example has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the reference line KL parallel to the vertical side of the base image is set. It may be set.

  FIG. 19A shows a case where a plurality of background-attached subject images 720-1, 720-2, 720-3 are arranged along the side 706 of the background image 700, for example, in a system without an arrangement assist function. As shown in A), it tends to be cluttered.

  However, in this embodiment, since the placement assist process is performed in a predetermined case, for example, as shown in FIG. 19B, the background subject image 720-1, 720-2 along the side 706 of the base image 700. , 720-3 can be arranged in an orderly manner.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 19C, the reference line KL parallel to the side 706 of the background image is set at a position away from the side 706 by a predetermined distance. In this way, the background subject image can be arranged side by side at a predetermined position (offset OS is provided) from the side 706 of the background image.

  If a background subject image is arranged with any side of the background subject image overlapped with the reference line, it is possible to set the offset OS by changing the position of the reference line. A configuration in which the offset is changed when one reference line is arranged with respect to the reference line is also within the scope of the present invention.

  20A to 20C are diagrams for describing a configuration in which a predetermined reference line is set in parallel with a side that forms the outer edge of a subject image with a background arranged by editing processing.

  Reference numeral 720-1 in FIG. 20A denotes a subject image with a background arranged by editing processing. In the present embodiment, the reference line KL can be set for the side 729-1 of the subject image 720-1 with the background in the arranged state. In this way, the next subject image 720-2 with the background can be further arranged along the subject image 720-1 with the background.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 20B, first, reference lines KL1 and KL2 are set, and a subject image 720-1 with a background is arranged. Next, a parallel reference line KL3 is set to the side 727-1 of the subject image 720-1 with background, and the subject image 720-2 with background is placed. Next, a parallel reference line KL4 is set to the side 727-2 of the subject image 720-2 with background, and the subject image 720-3 with background is placed. Next, when the subject image 720-4 with the background is arranged, it is arranged along the reference lines KL2 and KL5, and when the subject image 720-5 with the background is arranged, it is arranged along the reference lines KL3 and KL5. When the subject image 720-6 is arranged, it is arranged along the reference lines KL4 and KL5. By repeating this process, for example, as shown in FIG. 20C, a plurality of subject images 720-1 to 720-9 with backgrounds can be arranged in an orderly manner with respect to the background image 700.

  FIGS. 21A to 21C and FIG. 25 are diagrams for explaining the arrangement rotation image.

  In the present embodiment, when any thumbnail image displayed in the collage image field 420 is touched with a touch pen or the like on the editing screen as shown in FIG. 8, the background image corresponding to the thumbnail image is displayed in the editing area. 410 is displayed. In addition, any thumbnail image displayed in the collage material image field 430 is touched with a touch pen or the like, and the desired placement position on the editing area 410 is pointed with the touch pen or the like, so that the position selected on the background image is selected. Collage material 430 is arranged. After selecting the collage material image field 430, touching the angle change button can change the degree of placement.

  FIG. 25 shows a state in which a subject image with a given background is arranged in a no-rotation state 720-1, a right rotation state 720-2, and a left rotation state 720-3 with respect to the background image 700. Yes. In order to perform such rotational arrangement of images, in the present embodiment, for a subject image with a background that is a material image for collage, a rotational image for placement corresponding to a rotation pattern that can be specified is previously stored as image data in pixel units. It is stored in the drawing buffer.

  21A is a non-rotated image of a given background subject image, FIG. 21B is a right-rotated image of a given background subject image, and FIG. It is a left rotation image of a subject image with a background.

  In the present embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 20B and 20C for the right rotation image and the left rotation image, a rectangular transparent background image 810-1 composed of sides parallel to the outer edge side of the base image. , 810-2, rotation image 800-1 and 800-2 are arranged in advance so that the rotated subject images 820-1 and 820-2 with the background are included and stored in the storage unit. Let me.

  FIG. 22 is a diagram for explaining a method for arranging a rotated background subject image on a base image.

  The arrangement rotation image 800 is arranged so that the representative point 830 of the arrangement rotation image 800 corresponding to the designated rotation pattern comes to the point position P of the base image.

  FIGS. 23A and 23B are diagrams for explaining the rotation arrangement assist control. In the present embodiment, placement assistance is also performed when images are rotated and placed. In this case, a given side constituting the outer edge of the rotation image for placement 800 arranged at a position corresponding to the point position (a given 842 side constituting the outer edge of the transparent background image) and a predetermined reference line If there is a predetermined relationship, an arrangement assist control process for arranging the arrangement rotation image at a predetermined position with respect to the reference line is performed. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 23 (A), they are arranged neatly in a rotated state.

  FIG. 23B shows a predetermined reference line KL in parallel with the side 844-1 constituting the outer edge of the arrangement rotation image 800-1 corresponding to the arrangement rotation image 800-1 arranged by the editing process. A state is shown in which the placement assist image 800-2 is placed and assisted according to a predetermined reference line KL.

  FIG. 27 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of the subject image arrangement control process.

Edit input information including subject image specifying information with a background to be placed, size button input information, angle change button input information, and point position information is received (step S310).
Next, based on the edit input information, it is determined whether or not the arrangement assist condition for the currently set reference line is satisfied (step S320). For example, when there are a plurality of currently set reference lines, it is determined whether or not the arrangement assist condition is satisfied for the plurality of reference lines. Whether or not the arrangement assist condition is satisfied should be determined based on the size information specified by the size button input information and the rotation information specified by the angle change button input information from the arrangement assist condition table as shown in FIG. 24, for example. An arrangement assist condition may be determined to determine whether or not a coordinate value given as point position information satisfies an arrangement assist condition to be determined.

  Based on the edit input information, it is determined whether or not the arrangement assist condition for the currently set reference line is satisfied (step S320).

Next, it is determined whether there is a reference line that satisfies the arrangement assist condition (step S330). If there is, it is determined whether there are a plurality of reference lines that satisfy the arrangement assist condition.
If there are a plurality of reference lines that satisfy the placement assist condition (step S340), the reference line that is the placement assist target is determined according to a predetermined priority (step S350). For example, a reference line that is closest to the side of the background subject image may be set as a placement assist target, or a priority order may be given to the reference line in advance, and a reference line with the highest priority may be set as a placement assist target. Good.

  If there is one reference line that satisfies the placement assist condition, a reference line that satisfies the placement assist condition is set as a placement assist target (step S360).

  If there is no rotation input for the placement assist target (step S370), placement assist processing is performed to place the subject image with the background at a predetermined position with respect to the reference line (step S380). If there is a rotation input for the placement assist target (step S370), a placement assist process is performed to place the placement rotation image corresponding to the subject image with the background at a predetermined position with respect to the reference line. (Step S390).

  If it is not a placement assist target and there is no rotation input (step S400), a subject image with a background is placed at the point position without performing placement assist processing (step S410). In addition, when it is not a placement assist target and there is a rotation input (step S400), the placement rotation image is placed at the point position without performing the placement assist process (step S420).

5). Editing end control processing Generally, a time limit is provided in the editing input processing performed on the editing screen. When the time limit comes, the acceptance of the editing input is ended and the layout selection screen is displayed. Even in the present embodiment, the editing input process performed on the editing screen is provided with a time limit, but is configured to be slightly extended under certain conditions.

  In other words, when the first set time limit is reached, the specified extension time is set immediately without ending the editing input process, and if the predetermined condition is met during the extension period, or the extension time ends. In this case, control is performed to end the process.

  As a predetermined condition, it is determined whether or not there has been no operation input for performing an edit input during the extension period. The presence / absence of an operation input may be monitored, and the extended time may be terminated when, for example, one second has elapsed without any operation input.

  As a predetermined condition, whether or not the editing operation input performed at the extension start timing is completed (for example, when one operation input is completed, the type of operation input is switched, or a continuous series of operations is performed) The extended time may be ended when the time has ended. The case where the type of operation input is switched may be a case where a function change button image of a touch pen such as 460, 462, 464, 466 or the like is touched on the editing screen.

FIG. 28 is an example of an edit screen displayed during the extension period. In the extended period,
A present time (extended period) remaining time display 492 is displayed instead of the remaining time display 490 (see FIG. 8) of the time limit for editing input. When entering the extension period, the timer starts counting down the remaining time of the set extension time (for example, 10 seconds). In this way, the display is switched during the extended period, so that the user can recognize that the current period is the extended period and can not start a new edit. It is possible to guide in a direction to end the processing.

  Conventionally, when editing is performed by writing characters, pictures, etc. on the editing screen just before the time limit ends, the text cannot be finished within the time limit, the text is interrupted in the middle, or the picture is incomplete Sometimes it became. However, in the present embodiment, even if the time limit expires, input is accepted until a predetermined condition is satisfied immediately. The edit input process that inputs a batch of texts and pictures can be continued without changing the function buttons during the process, so it is treated as a series of inputs, and while you are drawing text or pictures, touch the touch pen on the screen. The input will not be interrupted for more than 1 second. Accordingly, the end condition of the extension period is not satisfied while a sentence or a picture is being drawn, so that the editing process can be ended after the user completes the sentence or the picture.

  For example, as shown at 910 at the end of the time limit for the editing period, when the input is made halfway between “Dai” and the next “Su” with the touch pen, it is possible to continue writing for 10 seconds without changing the function of the pen. Therefore, after inputting characters “Daisuki” to the end, the editing process can be terminated.

  FIG. 29 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of the edit end control process.

  If the editing input time limit is 0, the following processing is performed (step S510).

  First, an extension time limit is set, an extension period is started, and a countdown of the extension time limit is started (step S520).

  If the series of processes at the start of extension is not ongoing, the process goes to step S580 (step S530). If there is a function switching input, the process goes to step S580 (step S540). If there is no operation input for performing the edit input for a predetermined period, the process goes to step S580 (step S550).

Next, the extension time limit is decremented (step S560). If the extension limit time is not 0, the process returns to step S530 to perform the subsequent processing. If the extension limit time is 0, the extension period is ended (step S580).
The method described in the above embodiment is merely an example, and even when an equivalent method that exhibits the same effect as the method in the above embodiment is employed, the method can be included in the scope of the present invention. The present invention is not limited to that described in the above embodiment, and various modifications can be made. Various methods described in the above embodiment and various methods described later as modified examples can be appropriately combined and used as a method for realizing the present invention.

1 is a perspective view illustrating an example of an appearance of a photographic printing apparatus according to an embodiment. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an example of an appearance of a photographic printing apparatus according to an embodiment. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an example of an appearance of a photographic printing apparatus according to an embodiment. 1 is an example of a block diagram of a photo printing apparatus according to an embodiment. The figure explaining the production | generation process of the subject image without a background in a imaging | photography mode, and the subject image with a background. The flowchart for demonstrating the edit flow of this Embodiment. An example of a graffiti image selection screen. Is an example of a graffiti screen (editing screen). The figure for demonstrating the mobile transmission screen after the end of graffiti. The figure for demonstrating the subject image arrangement | positioning edit process of this Embodiment. The figure for demonstrating the subject image arrangement | positioning edit process of this Embodiment. The figure for demonstrating the subject image arrangement | positioning edit process of this Embodiment. 6 is a flowchart showing a flow of subject image arrangement editing processing according to the present embodiment. The figure for demonstrating subject image arrangement | positioning control processing. The figure for demonstrating subject image arrangement | positioning control processing. The figure for demonstrating subject image arrangement | positioning control processing. The figure for demonstrating subject image arrangement | positioning control processing. The figure for demonstrating subject image arrangement | positioning control processing. The figure for demonstrating subject image arrangement | positioning control processing. The figure for demonstrating subject image arrangement | positioning control processing. The figure for demonstrating the rotation image for arrangement | positioning. The figure for demonstrating the method to arrange | position the to-be-photographed subject image with the background rotated. The figure for demonstrating a rotation arrangement system. An example of the correspondence table of each reference line and arrangement assistance conditions. The figure for demonstrating the rotation image for arrangement | positioning. The figure for demonstrating a subject image without a background and a subject image with a background. 7 is a flowchart for explaining a flow of subject image arrangement control processing. An example of an edit screen displayed during the extension period. The flowchart for demonstrating the flow of an edit end control process.

Explanation of symbols

PM photo printing device, RM price receiving unit, CM imaging unit, EM editing operation receiving unit, PB photo sticker providing unit, SP speaker, RA receiving area, RMN receiving monitor, CI coin slot, RL receiving lighting unit, MR Mirror MR, BT imaging transition button, CA imaging area, ST sheet, CR camera, CL imaging illumination unit, CMN imaging monitor, EA editing area, EMN editing monitor, TP touch pen, PA extraction area, PO photo sticker exit , 100 processing unit, 110 subject image capturing processing unit, 120 editing processing unit, 122 subject image layout editing processing unit, 124 subject image layout control processing unit, 126 editing end control processing, 130 image generation unit, 140 sound generation unit, 160 Operation unit, 170 storage unit, 174 drawing buffer, 180 information storage medium, 90 display, 192 a sound output unit, 194 portable information storage device 195 printing unit, 196 communication unit, 198 imaging unit

Claims (12)

A photo printing device that captures, edits, and prints an image of a photographed subject,
Subject image capturing means for capturing a subject image captured by the imaging means;
Editing processing means for generating a print target image by performing editing processing using the captured subject image based on the editing input,
The subject image capturing means includes
Combine the captured subject image with a given background image to generate a background subject image,
The editing processing means includes
As an editing input to specify the placement position of a subject image with a background for a given background image displayed on the editing screen, a point position input by a pointing device to the editing screen is accepted. Subject image placement control means for placing the subject image on a given background image,
The subject image arrangement control means includes:
When the distance between a given side that forms the outer edge of the subject image with background arranged at a position corresponding to the point position and a predetermined reference line has a predetermined relationship, the subject image with background is A photo printing apparatus that performs an arrangement assist process for arranging at a predetermined position with respect to a reference line. A photo printing device that captures, edits, and prints an image of a photographed subject,
Subject image capturing means for capturing a subject image captured by the imaging means;
Editing processing means for generating a print target image by performing editing processing using the captured subject image based on the editing input,
The subject image capturing means includes
Combine the captured subject image with a given background image to generate a background subject image,
The editing processing means includes
As an editing input to specify the placement position of a subject image with a background for a given background image displayed on the editing screen, a point position input by a pointing device to the editing screen is accepted. Subject image placement control means for placing the subject image on a given background image,
The subject image arrangement control means includes:
Storing a rotated image for placement arranged so that a rotated background subject image is included in a rectangular transparent background image composed of sides parallel to the outer edge side of the background image;
When an edit input for rotating a subject image with a background and placing it on a background image is received, the rotation image for placement stored corresponding to the rotation information specified by the edit input is used as the given background image. Place and
When the distance between a given side constituting the outer edge of the rotation image for arrangement arranged at a position corresponding to the point position and a predetermined reference line has a predetermined relationship, the rotation image for arrangement is used as a reference line. A photo printing apparatus that performs an arrangement assist control process for arranging a predetermined position. In any one of Claims 1-2.
The subject image arrangement control means includes:
In consideration of the size information of the subject image with background to be arranged, a predetermined side that forms an outer edge of the subject image with background or the rotation image for placement arranged at a position corresponding to a point position and a predetermined side A photographic printing apparatus characterized by determining whether or not a distance from a reference line has a predetermined relationship. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 3,
The subject image arrangement control means includes:
When the distance between a predetermined side and a predetermined reference line constituting an outer edge of the background-attached subject image or the arrangement rotated image arranged at a position corresponding to the point position has a predetermined relationship, A photographic printing apparatus that performs display control for sliding a subject image with a background or the rotated image for placement from a position corresponding to a point position to a predetermined position with respect to a reference line. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 4,
The subject image arrangement control means includes:
When the distance between a given side that constitutes the outer edge of the background-attached subject image arranged at a position corresponding to the point position or the rotation image for arrangement and a predetermined reference line is not in a predetermined relationship, A photographic printing apparatus, wherein the subject image with background or the rotated image for placement is placed at a position corresponding to a point position without performing placement assist processing. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 5,
The subject image arrangement control means includes:
A photographic printing apparatus, wherein a predetermined reference line is set in parallel with a side constituting the outer edge of the given base image. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 6.
The subject image arrangement control means includes:
A photographic printing apparatus, wherein a predetermined reference line is set in parallel with a subject image with a background arranged by an editing process or a side constituting an outer edge of the rotation image for arrangement. A program for controlling a photo printing apparatus that captures, edits and prints an image of a photographed subject,
Subject image capturing means for capturing a subject image captured by the imaging means;
Based on the edit input, the computer functions as an edit processing means for performing an edit process using the captured subject image and generating a print target image,
The subject image capturing means includes
Combine the captured subject image with a given background image to generate a background subject image,
The editing processing means includes
As an editing input to specify the placement position of a subject image with a background for a given background image displayed on the editing screen, a point position input by a pointing device to the editing screen is accepted. Subject image placement control means for placing the subject image on a given background image,
The subject image arrangement control means includes:
When the distance between a given side that forms the outer edge of the subject image with background arranged at a position corresponding to the point position and a predetermined reference line has a predetermined relationship, the subject image with background is A program for performing an arrangement assist process for arranging at a predetermined position with respect to a reference line. A program for controlling a photo printing apparatus that captures, edits and prints an image of a photographed subject,
Subject image capturing means for capturing a subject image captured by the imaging means;
Based on the edit input, the computer functions as an edit processing means for performing an edit process using the captured subject image and generating a print target image,
The subject image capturing means includes
Combine the captured subject image with a given background image to generate a background subject image,
The editing processing means includes
As an editing input to specify the placement position of a subject image with a background for a given background image displayed on the editing screen, a point position input by a pointing device to the editing screen is accepted. Subject image placement control means for placing the subject image on a given background image,
The subject image arrangement control means includes:
Storing a rotated image for placement arranged so that a rotated background subject image is included in a rectangular transparent background image composed of sides parallel to the outer edge side of the background image;
When an edit input for rotating a subject image with a background and placing it on a background image is received, the rotation image for placement stored corresponding to the rotation information specified by the edit input is used as the given background image. Place and
When the distance between a given side constituting the outer edge of the rotation image for arrangement arranged at a position corresponding to the point position and a predetermined reference line has a predetermined relationship, the rotation image for arrangement is used as a reference line. A program for performing placement assist control processing for placement at a predetermined position.   A computer-readable information storage medium, wherein the program according to any one of claims 8 to 9 is stored. A photo printing method that captures, edits, and prints an image of a photographed subject,
A subject image capturing step for capturing a subject image captured by the imaging means;
An editing process step of generating an image to be printed by performing an editing process using the captured subject image based on the editing input,
In the subject image capturing step,
Combine the captured subject image with a given background image to generate a background subject image,
The editing process step includes:
As an editing input to specify the placement position of a subject image with a background for a given background image displayed on the editing screen, a point position input by a pointing device to the editing screen is accepted. A subject image placement control step for placing the subject image on a given background image,
In the subject image arrangement control step,
When the distance between a given side that forms the outer edge of the subject image with background arranged at a position corresponding to the point position and a predetermined reference line has a predetermined relationship, the subject image with background is A photo printing method comprising performing an arrangement assist process for arranging at a predetermined position with respect to a reference line. A photo printing method that captures, edits, and prints an image of a photographed subject,
A subject image capturing step for capturing a subject image captured by the imaging means;
An editing process step of generating an image to be printed by performing an editing process using the captured subject image based on the editing input,
In the subject image capturing step,
Combine the captured subject image with a given background image to generate a background subject image,
The editing process step includes:
As an editing input to specify the placement position of a subject image with a background for a given background image displayed on the editing screen, a point position input by a pointing device to the editing screen is accepted. A subject image placement control step for placing the subject image on a given background image,
The subject image arrangement control step includes:
Storing a rotated image for placement arranged so that a rotated background subject image is included in a rectangular transparent background image composed of sides parallel to the outer edge side of the background image;
When an edit input for rotating a subject image with a background and placing it on a background image is received, the rotation image for placement stored corresponding to the rotation information specified by the edit input is used as the given background image. Place and
When the distance between a given side constituting the outer edge of the rotation image for arrangement arranged at a position corresponding to the point position and a predetermined reference line has a predetermined relationship, the rotation image for arrangement is used as a reference line. A photo printing method characterized by performing an arrangement assist control process for arranging the image at a predetermined position.

Images