JP2010004274A - Image processor, image processing method, program and storage medium - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image processor which reduces workload for operators of printers, performs digital printing operations at high speed, and allows users, such as old persons and persons unfamiliar with personal computers, to easily perform additional printing orders and to continuously use recording media without handing the recording media to the operator even during a digital print request. <P>SOLUTION: 1. Based on the information written to a requesting index sheet, additional printing is executed. 2. Index printing image data is created from thumbnail images. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus that controls print processing of image data recorded on a recording medium, a control method for the image processing apparatus, a data processing method, and a storage medium that stores a computer-readable program.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there is a photo reprint service as a general method for printing hand-held image data, for example, each frame image of a photographic film. This reprint service fills the translucent negative cover (negative holder) where the developed film is stored and brings it into the development office, where it can be printed at the development office. In particular, this is done by reprinting the desired image.

  Recently, there is a photo CD system that reads an image on a film, writes the read image data to a CD-ROM, reads the image data from the CD-ROM, and reproduces and displays it on an image display device such as a display.

  As a method for requesting the extra print service of the image data recorded on such a photo CD, information for specifying the CD-ROM and the image data recorded on the CD-ROM (for example, confirmation by index print or the like) The method of handing a memo in which an image number or the like to be written is written is common.

  In addition, in the case of image data taken by a digital camera that is rapidly spreading, digital data called DPOF (Digital Print Order Format) is stored in a recording medium together with the image data and brought to a DPE shop or a computer shop. The desired image data print service can be received.

  Alternatively, it has recently become possible to send image data to a DPE shop or a personal computer shop via a communication line and receive a print service for the transmitted image data.

  However, the method for specifying a print image by the DPOF and the method for transmitting desired image data via a communication line need to be skilled in the use of a personal computer or a digital camera. The reality is that it is difficult for non-computer users to use.

  When such a user receives a print service for image data taken with a digital camera, information for specifying the image data recorded on a recording medium that has been conventionally performed (for example, confirmation by index printing) In general, a memo in which an image number or the like to be written is handed over or the number of prints is directly entered in the index print and handed over.

  When receiving such an image print service, it is necessary to designate a desired image from image data recorded on a recording medium. For this reason, the customer who receives the print service informs the image print service destination by a memo or the like the number or name written on the image in order to designate a desired image in the image data recorded on the recording medium. is required.

  On the other hand, the image print service destination selects the image desired by the customer from the image data recorded on the recording medium based on the number or name instructed by the customer requesting the print service, and prints it. It is necessary to do.

  In general, an image processing apparatus for performing a print service as described above requires complicated operations. Therefore, it has not been easy for a general clerk to select an image to be printed and execute printing.

  In addition, since manual intervention is required when selecting a desired image from the image data recorded on the recording medium, there is a possibility that the selection as instructed by the customer may not be performed at the same time. There was a problem that the work load of was large and efficiency was not good.

One method for solving such a problem is disclosed in Patent Document 1. According to the invention, a list having a plurality of images recorded on the film and an area for designating the number of copies for each of the images is read, and the number of copies corresponding to each of the images recorded on the film is recognized. The image recorded on the film is printed based on the result.
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-224528

  In the printing apparatus and the print designation method according to the above-described conventional example, not only the work load of the operator of the image processing apparatus is large and the efficiency is not good, but also it is impossible to completely prevent an operator from making an operation mistake.

  In the method described in Patent Document 1 proposed to solve such a problem, the images recorded on the film and the list list proposed in the invention correspond one-to-one, and the film is recorded on the recording medium. Is effective. However, in the case of a recording medium composed of a semiconductor memory or the like, the number of image data recorded on the recording medium is enormous compared to the image data recorded on the film, and all readings are made and a list is created. It was difficult.

  Further, in the method described in the second embodiment of Patent Document 1, an image recorded on a film is stored on an optical disk, and the storage position information of the image data is written in a list so that the optical disk can be printed during reprinting. By using the image data recorded in the image list and a list including the recording position information of the image data, the operator of the image processing apparatus can select an image accurately and efficiently. However, in the case of semiconductor memories that are widely used at present, the user can freely perform deletion, additional recording, editing, etc., so there are many similar images in the list and the recording position also changes. Therefore, it is insufficient as information for specifying a print image.

  Also, in the case of printing images taken with a digital camera, in many cases it is necessary to leave a recording medium consisting of a semiconductor memory or the like to a store equipped with a printing device. I can't do it.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned background, and the first object is to reduce the work load on the operator of the printing apparatus and to increase the speed of digital printing work. In addition, non-personal computer users should be able to easily reprint and place print orders. A third object is to allow the user to continue using the recording medium without depositing the recording medium even during a digital print request.

An image processing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention provides:
A first input unit that captures print information in a predetermined format; a first reading unit that reads the print information via the first input unit; and a first input unit that captures image data from a recording medium on which image data is recorded. Second input means, second reading means for reading image data via the second input means, and predetermined information from the second reading means based on print information obtained from the first reading means. Selection means for selecting image data, image processing means for converting image data selectively read through the second reading means to a predetermined size, and output means for printing the converted image data And display means for displaying print information or operation information.

  The image processing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention converts one or a plurality of the image data read from the second reading means into a predetermined size, and identifies the converted image and the image data. Image forming means for forming an image corresponding to information for designating at least one of print size, number of prints, and print format, and output means for printing the formed image. Features.

  The image processing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention selectively reads only a thumbnail image from the image data via the second reading means, and converts the thumbnail of the image data into a predetermined size. Image forming means for forming an image that includes information for identifying the converted image and the image data and that corresponds to information for designating at least one of the print size, the number of prints, and the print format; An output means for printing the formed image is provided.

  In the image processing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention, the print information in the predetermined format includes one or a plurality of print images that can specify image data to be printed and information for identifying the image data. It has at least one of size, number of printed sheets, and printing format.

  The image processing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the print information in the predetermined format includes information for identifying a recording medium or a recording apparatus on which image data to be printed is recorded.

  In the image processing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention, the print information in the predetermined format includes information that can identify physical information regarding a recording position of the image data on a recording medium on which the image data to be printed is recorded. It is characterized by things.

  The image processing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the print information in the predetermined format includes a URL on the Internet where image data to be printed is recorded.

  In the image processing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention, the first input unit has a scanner function including a photoelectric conversion element, and converts print information of the predetermined format into electronic data. And

  In the image processing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention, the first reading unit includes a character recognition unit, and specifies image data to be printed from information converted into electronic data by the first input unit. It is characterized in that at least one of the number or name to be printed, the print size, the number of prints, and the print format is extracted.

  In the image processing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention, the first reading unit includes a character recognition unit, and image data to be printed is recorded from information converted into electronic data by the first input unit. It is characterized by extracting information that can identify a recording medium or a recording apparatus.

  In the image processing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention, the first reading unit includes a character recognition unit, and image data to be printed is recorded from information converted into electronic data by the first input unit. Information that can identify physical information related to the recording position of the image data in the recording medium is extracted.

  In the image processing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention, the first reading unit includes a character recognition unit, and image data to be printed is recorded from information converted into electronic data by the first input unit. It is characterized by extracting a URL on the Internet.

  When the image processing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention cannot select predetermined image data from the second reading unit based on the print information obtained from the first reading unit, The display means displays a warning.

  When the image processing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention cannot select predetermined image data from the second reading unit based on the print information obtained from the first reading unit, The output means prints warning information.

  The image processing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention provides image data selectively read via the second reading means based on print information obtained from the first reading means. And recording means for recording print information obtained from the reading means on the recording medium.

  The image processing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention has recording means for recording image data readable via the second reading means on another recording medium different from the recording medium. It is characterized by.

  The image processing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention has communication means for recording image data readable via the second reading means on a recording apparatus connected via a communication line. It is characterized by.

  The image processing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention records image data that can be read via the second reading unit on a recording medium different from the recording medium, and sets the recording location to the predetermined position. It outputs to the printing information of a format.

  The image processing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention records image data that can be read via the second reading means on a recording device connected via a communication line, and the recording location is the predetermined position. It outputs to the printing information of a format.

  In the case where the print information is given in advance to the image data obtained by the second reading unit, when the print information is not input to the first input unit, the second reading unit The print information added to the obtained image data is given priority.

  The image processing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the recording medium is a portable storage medium.

  The image processing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the recording medium is a portable memory card including a semiconductor memory, a magnetic memory, or an optical disk.

  In the image processing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention, the recording medium is a semiconductor memory, a magnetic memory, or an optical disk built in an electronic camera having an image sensor.

  The image processing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the second input means is a memory card reader built in the image processing apparatus.

  The image processing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the second input means is a memory card reader connected to the image processing apparatus by a USB cable.

  The image processing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the second input means is an electronic camera connected to the image processing apparatus by a USB cable.

  The image processing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the second input means is a memory card reader connected to the image processing apparatus via a communication line.

  The image processing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the second input means is an electronic camera connected to the image processing apparatus via a communication line.

  An image processing method according to a second aspect of the present invention is an image processing method of an image processing apparatus capable of reading print information in a predetermined format, the first input step for capturing print information in a predetermined format, A first reading step for reading the print information via a first input step, a second input step for capturing image data from a recording medium on which image data is recorded, and a second input step. A second reading step for reading image data; a selection step for selecting predetermined image data from the second reading step based on print information obtained from the first reading step; and the second reading step. An image processing step for converting image data selectively read via the image data into a predetermined size, and an output step for printing the converted image data. .

  A recording medium according to a third aspect of the present invention is a storage medium storing a computer-readable program for controlling an image processing apparatus capable of reading print information in a predetermined format, and storing the print information in a predetermined format. A first input step for capturing; a first reading step for reading the print information through the first input step; a second input step for capturing image data from a recording medium on which image data is recorded; A second reading step for reading image data through the second input step, and a selection for selecting predetermined image data from the second reading step based on print information obtained from the first reading step A step, an image processing step for converting image data selectively read through the second reading step into a predetermined size, and a converted image Characterized in that an output step of printing the data.

  As described above, according to the present invention, the extra print is executed based on the information entered in the index sheet for print request, thereby preventing the mistakes caused by the input operation during the extra print and printing. The operational efficiency of the operator at the time is greatly improved. Also. A client who orders reprinting can easily specify an image to be reprinted from the index print image for print request, and can easily place an order without being familiar with the operation of the digital camera or personal computer.

  In addition, according to the present invention, when image data for index printing is created from thumbnail images, when an index sheet for print request is created, the reading time of image data can be greatly shortened, and printing work Can be made more efficient.

  In addition, according to the present invention, it becomes possible for a user to specify an image to be printed easily without using a digital camera or a personal computer, and to request a print service provider for the number of copies to be printed or the print size. Non-computer user base is expanded.

  In addition, according to the present invention, the user can receive the extra print service without leaving the memory card on which the image data is recorded to the print service provider.

  Further, according to the present invention, even if the user does not have the original image data of the image data to be printed, since the recording position information is described in the print request index sheet, the extra print service is provided. It becomes possible to receive.

  Next, details of the present invention will be described in accordance with the description of the embodiments.

  Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a basic configuration of an image printing system using an image processing apparatus according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

  Reference numeral 100 denotes an image processing apparatus according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The card reader 102 is an input device for print image data, the scanner device 104 is an input device for print information, the scanner device 104 and the character recognition circuit 106, and an image. An image processing circuit 108 that performs data expansion processing / magnification processing, a display device 110 for displaying an image or a warning, a printer 112 that outputs a print image and a print request sheet, and the entire image processing circuit are controlled. CPU 114, input device 116 such as a keyboard for instructing operation to CPU 114, memory control circuit 118 and memory 120 for temporarily storing the read image, and memory 122 storing a program for CPU 114 to read and execute Consists of.

  Reference numeral 200 denotes a recording medium on which image data is recorded, such as a CF card, an SD card, a smart media card, or a CD formed from an optical disk, which is composed of a semiconductor memory.

  Reference numeral 300 denotes a print request index sheet. For example, an index image 302 and an image file name 304 as shown in FIG. 2 are described, a print number designation frame 306 for entering the number of prints, and a print size for entering a print size. A designation frame 308 and a printing format designation frame 310 for entering a printing format are provided. Reference numerals 312 and 314 denote the number of printed sheets and the print size actually entered.

  Reference numeral 102 denotes an input device such as a memory card reader or an optical disk drive for inputting an image from the recording medium 200. In accordance with an instruction from the CPU 114, image data recorded on the recording medium 200, a thumbnail of the image data, or print information And the like are read and transferred to the memory 120.

  Reference numeral 104 denotes a scanner device for reading print information from the print request index sheet 300. In accordance with an instruction from the CPU 114, the print request sheet information is converted into electronic data and transferred to the memory 120 via the memory control circuit 118. .

  A character recognition circuit 106 extracts print information from the electronic data of the print request sheet transferred to the memory 120. In accordance with an instruction from the CPU 114, the print target file name, the number of prints, the print size, the print format, and the like Extract information necessary for printing.

  Reference numeral 108 denotes an image processing circuit. The image data transferred from the recording medium 200 to the memory 120 is enlarged / reduced to a predetermined size in accordance with an instruction from the CPU 114, and the image data subjected to the scaling process is stored in the memory. The data is transferred to the memory 120 via the control circuit 118.

  In addition, when the image data transferred from the recording medium 200 to the memory 120 is subjected to compression processing such as JPEG, the image processing circuit 108 performs decompression processing according to an instruction from the CPU 114 and then decompresses the image data. Data is transferred to the memory 120 via the memory control circuit 118.

  Further, the image processing circuit 108 combines the image data transferred to the memory 120 and the print information extracted by the character recognition circuit 106, and stores the image data forming the print request sheet via the memory control circuit 118. 120.

  Reference numeral 110 denotes a display device configured by a liquid crystal display (LCD), a cathode ray tube (CRT), or the like, and displays image data read into the memory 120, print information, information on an operation method of the image processing apparatus 100, a warning, or the like.

  A printer 112 prints the image data read into the memory 120 and scaled to a predetermined size, or prints a print request sheet recorded in the memory 120 formed by the image processing circuit 108.

  Reference numeral 114 denotes a CPU that controls the overall operation of the image processing apparatus 100 while reading the program code recorded in the memory 122. Further, the CPU 114 controls the operation of the entire image processing apparatus 100 in accordance with an instruction from the input device 116 configured by a keyboard, a touch panel, or the like.

  Reference numeral 118 denotes a memory control circuit that controls data transfer between the card reader 102, the scanner device 104, the character recognition circuit 106, the image processing circuit 108, the display device 110, the printer 112, and the CPU 114 for data recorded in the memory 120. .

  A memory 120 can temporarily store image data or can be used as a work area for image processing. A code 122 stores a program read by the CPU 114, and is also used as a work area for the CPU 114. Get memory.

  A detailed control flow of the image processing apparatus 100 by the CPU 114 will be described with reference to a flowchart shown in FIG.

  When the image processing apparatus 100 is turned on, a message during initialization is displayed on the display apparatus 110, and the internal state is initialized to an operable state (step S101).

  When the initial setting is completed, the display device 110 displays the operation input information and waits for setting of the operation mode. When there is an instruction from the input device 116, the CPU 114 records, in the internal memory 122, a variable indicating the recording medium to be used, the type of print mode, etc. in accordance with the input instruction from the input device 116 (step S102). Depending on the print mode, the print size and the number of prints are also set, and the input device 116 is used to record information related to the setting information in the internal memory 122.

  When the recording medium to be used is set, the CPU 114 checks whether or not the designated recording medium 200 is securely attached to the card reader 102 and whether or not data can be read (step). S103).

  In step S103, when the designated recording medium 200 is not loaded in the card reader 102, or when data cannot be read from the loaded recording medium 200, a warning is displayed on the display device 110. Perform (step S104), and return to step S102.

  If the card reader 102 is in a state where data can be read from the designated recording medium 200 in step S103, the operation mode is determined in step S105.

  When the operation mode is set to the index print mode in step S105, the CPU 114 selects only a predetermined number of thumbnail images from the image data recorded on the recording medium 200 via the card reader 102. Then, the thumbnail image is transferred to the memory 120 via the memory control circuit 118 (step S110).

  The predetermined number of thumbnail images read in step S110 are subjected to JPEG decompression processing in the image processing circuit 108 via the memory control circuit 118, and transferred again to the memory 120 via the memory control circuit 118 (step S111).

  The image processing circuit 108 reads the image data expanded in step S110 through the memory control circuit 118, scales it to an image size suitable for the designated index print, and displays the print request index sheet shown in FIG. The image is synthesized at a predetermined location 300 and transferred to the memory 120 via the memory control circuit 118 (step S112).

  The CPU 114 outputs the print request index sheet image synthesized in step S112 to the printer 112 via the memory control circuit 118 (step S113).

  The CPU 114 determines whether or not reading of all the image data recorded on the recording medium 200 has been completed via the card reader 102 (step S114), and when all of the image data has not been read. Returns to step S110.

  If all the image data has been read from the recording medium 200 in step S114, the CPU 114 displays a log relating to print information via the display device 110, for example, the number of printed index sheets, a fee, and the like. (Step S115), the process returns to Step S102.

  In this way, by creating image data for index printing from thumbnail images, it is possible to greatly reduce the time for reading image data, and to increase the efficiency of printing work.

  If the operation mode is set to the normal print mode in step S105, the CPU 114 selects the image data recorded on the recording medium 200 one by one via the card reader 102, and the memory control circuit 118 is selected. Then, the image data is transferred to the memory 120 (step S120).

  The image processing circuit 108 reads the image data read via the memory control circuit 118 from the memory 120, performs JPEG decompression processing, and then performs scaling processing according to the print size set in step S102 (step S121). .

  The image data scaled to a predetermined size in step S121 is transferred to the printer 112 via the memory control circuit 118, and the image data is printed according to the number of prints set in step S102 (step S122).

  The CPU 114 determines whether or not reading of all the image data recorded on the recording medium 200 has been completed via the card reader 102 (step S123), and when all of the image data has not been read. Returns to step S120.

  If it is determined in step S123 that all image data has been read from the recording medium 200, the CPU 114 determines whether or not the operation mode set in step S102 is set to execute index printing. In step S124, if it is set to execute index printing, steps S110 to S114 are executed.

  If the operation mode is set not to execute index printing in step S124, the CPU 114 displays a log relating to print information via the display device 110, for example, the number of printed image data, a fee, and the like. (Step S115), the process returns to Step S102.

  In step S105, if the operation mode is set to the extra print mode, the CPU 114 determines whether the print request index sheet 300 is attached to the scanner device 104 via the scanner device 104 or the scanner device 104. It is also determined whether or not it is in a readable state (step S130).

  In step S130, when the print request index sheet 300 is readable, the scanner device 104 reads the information of the print request index sheet 300 and stores it in the memory 120 via the memory control circuit 118. The read electronic data is transferred (step S131).

  The CPU 114 uses the character recognition circuit 106 to extract information such as the image file name, the number of prints, the print size, and the print format from the information of the print request index sheet recorded in the memory 120, and the extracted information Among them, a series of information of the image file name, the number of prints, the print size, and the print format of the image data whose print number is at least one or more is recorded in the memory 122 which is a work area of the CPU 114 (step S132).

  In step S132, if the extracted print information is not sufficient information to execute extra printing (step S133), for example, if the print information cannot be recognized due to a reading error of the scanner, or the input print request sheet is predetermined. If the format does not conform to the above format, the CPU 114 displays a warning via the display device 110 (S142), and displays a log relating to the print information in step S115, for example, displays the number of printed image data, fees, and the like. Perform (step S115), and return to step S102.

  In step S132, when the extracted print information is sufficient information to execute the extra print (step S133), the CPU 114 searches the image data designated from the recording medium 200 via the card reader 102 (step S133). Step S134).

  If the image data designated on the recording medium 200 cannot be detected via the card reader 102 (step S135), the CPU 114 stores the warning information related to the memory 122 (step S140) and stores it in the display device 110. A warning is displayed (step S141).

  If the image data designated on the recording medium 200 can be detected via the card reader 102 (step S135), the detected image data is transferred to the memory 120 via the memory control circuit 118 (step S135). S136).

  The image processing circuit 108 reads the image data read via the memory control circuit 118 from the memory 120, performs JPEG decompression processing, and then performs scaling processing according to the print size set in step S132 (step S137). .

  The image data scaled to a predetermined size in step S137 is transferred to the printer 112 via the memory control circuit 118, and the image data is printed according to the number of prints set in step S132 (step S138).

  The CPU 114 determines whether or not reading of all the image data set in step S132 is completed via the card reader 102 (step S139). If all the image data has not been read, The process returns to step S134.

  If it is determined in step S139 that all the image data set in step S132 has been read, the CPU 114 displays a log regarding print information via the display device 110, for example, the number of printed image data, The warning information and charges recorded in S140 are displayed (step S115), and the process returns to step S102.

  If the print request index sheet 300 is not readable in step S130, the CPU 114 selects image data recorded on the recording medium 200 one by one via the card reader 102, and the memory control circuit The image data is transferred to the memory 120 via 118 (step S150).

  The CPU 114 determines whether or not information related to printing is added to the image data read into the memory 120 in step S150 (step S150). If there is no print information, the process proceeds to step S154.

  If it is determined in step S150 that print information has been added to the image data, the image processing circuit 108 reads the image data read via the memory control circuit 118 from the memory 120 and performs JPEG decompression processing. After that, a scaling process is performed according to the print information added to the image data (step S152).

  The image data scaled to a predetermined size in step S152 is transferred to the printer 112 via the memory control circuit 118, and a predetermined number of sheets are printed according to the print information added to the image data (step S153).

  The CPU 114 determines whether or not reading of all the image data recorded on the recording medium 200 has been completed via the card reader 102 (step S154), and when all of the image data has not been read. Returns to step S150.

  If it is determined in step S154 that all the image data has been read from the recording medium 200, the CPU 114 displays a log regarding print information via the display device 110, for example, the number of printed image data, a fee, etc. Is displayed (step S115), and the process returns to step S102.

  In this embodiment, it is described that printing is not performed when there is no print request index sheet or print information data recorded in the image data when reprinting is performed. It is of course possible to perform control so as to directly select the reprinted image data, set the number of prints, the print image size, etc.

  FIG. 4 shows a basic configuration of an image printing system in which the image processing apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention is extended.

  An image processing apparatus 400 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention includes a card reader 102 that is an input apparatus for print image data, a scanner apparatus 104 that is an input apparatus for print information, a scanner apparatus 104 and a character recognition circuit 106, an image An image processing circuit 108 that performs data expansion processing / magnification processing, a display device 110 for displaying an image or a warning, a printer 112 that outputs a print image and a print request sheet, and the entire image processing circuit are controlled. CPU 114, input device 116 such as a keyboard for instructing operation to CPU 114, memory control circuit 118 and memory 120 for temporarily storing the read image, and memory 122 storing a program for CPU 114 to read and execute And image data read from the recording medium 200 SCSI interface 134 for connecting to optical disk device 130, magnetic disk device 132, external recording device 136 for recording, USB interface 140 for connecting to external electronic camera 142 and card reader 144, and communication line Is configured by a communication interface 150 for recording image data in a recording device 154 connected via the network.

  Reference numeral 500 denotes a print request index sheet. For example, an index image 302 and an image file name 304 as shown in FIG. 5 are described, a print number designation frame 306 for entering the number of prints, and a print size for entering the print size. A designation frame 308 and a printing format designation frame 310 for entering a printing format are provided. Reference numerals 312 and 314 denote the number of printed sheets and the print size actually entered. Further, image data recording position information 502 for specifying a place where the printed index image 302 is stored is printed.

  An optical disk device 130, a magnetic disk device 132, a recording device 136 connected via a SCSI interface 134, and a recording device 154 connected via a communication line are for temporarily storing image data read from the recording medium 200. Is.

  Reference numerals 150 and 152 denote communication interfaces for taking the image data recorded in the recording device 154 connected via the communication line into the image processing device 400, and are connected to a modem or the Internet for connecting to the telephone line. LAN card for the purpose.

  Reference numerals 142 and 144 denote an electronic camera 142 and a card reader 144 that are connected via the USB interface 140 and the like. The image processing apparatus 400 can store image data recorded in a semiconductor memory built in the electronic camera 142 or a card reader 144. The image data recorded on the recording medium 200 attached to the memory 120 can be taken into the memory 120 via the USB interface 140 and the memory control circuit 118.

  A detailed control flow of the image processing apparatus 400 by the CPU 114 will be described with reference to a flowchart shown in FIG.

  When the image processing apparatus 100 is powered on, a message indicating initialization is displayed on the display apparatus 110, and the internal state is initialized to an operable state (step S201).

  When the initialization is completed, the display device 110 displays the operation input information and waits for setting of the operation mode. When there is an instruction from the input device 116, the CPU 114 records, in the internal memory 122, variables indicating the recording device and recording medium to be used, the type of print mode, and the like in accordance with the input instruction from the input device 116 (step S202). Depending on the print mode, the print size and the number of prints are also set, and the input device 116 is used to record information relating to the setting information in the internal memory 122.

  When the recording device and the recording medium to be used are set, the CPU 114 can access the designated recording device, and whether the image data can be read from the recording medium of the designated recording device. In addition, when the read image data is transferred / recorded to another recording device, whether the transfer destination recording device is accessible or not, the image data is stored on the recording medium of the transfer destination recording device. It is checked whether or not it is in a writable state (step S203).

  In step S203, if the image data cannot be read from the designated recording device, or if the image data cannot be written to the designated recording device, the display device 110 is warned. Display is performed (step S204), and the process returns to step S202.

  If it is determined in step S203 that image data can be read from the designated recording apparatus, the operation mode is determined in step S205.

  When the image data reading device is set to the built-in card reader 102 in step S202 and the operation mode is set to the index print mode, the CPU 114 records the image data on the recording medium 200 via the card reader 102. Only a predetermined number of thumbnail images are selected from the image data, and the thumbnail images are transferred to the memory 120 via the memory control circuit 118 (step S210).

  The predetermined number of thumbnail images read in step S210 are subjected to JPEG decompression processing in the image processing circuit 108 via the memory control circuit 118, and transferred again to the memory 120 via the memory control circuit 118 (step S211).

  The image processing circuit 108 reads the image data decompressed in step S210 via the memory control circuit 118, scales it to an image size that is designated and suitable for index printing, and displays the print request index sheet shown in FIG. The image is synthesized at a predetermined location 300 and transferred to the memory 120 via the memory control circuit 118 (step S212).

  The CPU 114 outputs the print request index sheet image synthesized in step S212 to the printer 112 via the memory control circuit 118 (step S213).

  The CPU 114 determines whether or not reading of all the image data recorded on the recording medium 200 has been completed via the card reader 102 (step S214), and has read all the image data. Returns to step S210.

  In step S214, when all the image data has been read from the recording medium 200, the CPU 114 displays a log relating to print information via the display device 110, for example, the number of printed index sheets, a fee, and the like. (Step S215), the process returns to Step S202.

  In this way, by creating image data for index printing from thumbnail images, it is possible to greatly reduce the time for reading image data, and to increase the efficiency of printing work.

  When the image data reading device is set to the built-in card reader 102 in step S202 and the operation mode is set to the normal print mode, the CPU 114 records the image data on the recording medium 200 via the card reader 102. Image data is selected one by one, and the image data is transferred to the memory 120 via the memory control circuit 118 (step S220).

  The image processing circuit 108 reads the image data read via the memory control circuit 118 from the memory 120, performs JPEG decompression processing, and then performs scaling processing according to the print size set in step S202 (step S221). .

  The image data scaled to a predetermined size in step S221 is transferred to the printer 112 via the memory control circuit 118, and the image data is printed according to the number of prints set in step S202 (step S222).

  The CPU 114 transfers the image data read from the recording medium 200 to the memory 120 to any one of the optical disk device 130, the magnetic disk device 132, and the external recording devices 136 and 154 via the memory control circuit 118 (step S223). ). It is assumed that the transfer destination is specified when the mode is set in step S202.

  The CPU 114 determines whether or not reading of all the image data recorded on the recording medium 200 has been completed via the card reader 102 (step S224), and when all of the image data has not been read. Returns to step S220.

  If it is determined in step S224 that all image data has been read from the recording medium 200, the CPU 114 determines whether or not the operation mode set in step S202 is set to execute index printing. (Step S225) If the setting is to execute index printing, Steps S210 to S214 are executed.

  However, in step S212, the recording apparatus to which the image data is transferred in step S223 and the information for identifying the recording position are combined and printed in step S223.

  In step S225, if the operation mode is set not to execute index printing, the CPU 114 displays a log regarding print information via the display device 110, for example, the number of printed image data, the charge, and storage of the image data. The previous display is performed (step S215), and the process returns to step S202.

  In step S205, if the operation mode is set to the extra print mode, the CPU 114 determines whether the print request index sheet 300 is attached to the scanner device 104 via the scanner device 104 or the scanner device 104. Further, it is determined whether or not it is in a readable state (step S230).

  If the print request index sheet 300 is readable in step S230, the scanner device 104 reads the information of the print request index sheet 300 and stores it in the memory 120 via the memory control circuit 118. The read electronic data is transferred (step S231).

  The CPU 114 uses the character recognition circuit 106 to extract information such as the image file name, the number of prints, the print size, and the print format from the information of the print request index sheet recorded in the memory 120, and the extracted information Among them, a series of information of the image file name, the number of prints, the print size, and the print format of the image data whose print number is at least one or more is recorded in the memory 122 which is the work area of the CPU 114 (step S232). Further, a location where image data to be printed is recorded, for example, a URL shown in FIG. 5 is extracted and recorded in the memory 122 which is a work area of the CPU 114.

  In step S232, if the extracted print information is not sufficient information to execute the extra print (step S233), for example, if the print information cannot be recognized due to a reading error of the scanner, or the input print request sheet is predetermined. If the format does not conform to the above format, the CPU 114 displays a warning via the display device 110 (S242), and displays a log regarding print information in step S215, for example, displays the number of printed image data, charges, and the like. Perform (step S215), and return to step S202.

  In step S232, if the extracted print information is sufficient information to execute extra printing (step S233), the CPU 114 accesses the recording device 154 set in step 232 and searches for image data ( Step S234).

  If the image data designated by the recording device 154 cannot be detected (step S235), the CPU 114 stores warning information related to the memory 122 (step S240) and displays a warning on the display device 110 (step S235). S241).

  When the image data designated by the recording device 154 can be detected (step S235), the detected image data is transferred to the memory 120 via the communication interfaces 150 and 152 and the memory control circuit 118 (step S235). S236).

  The image processing circuit 108 reads the image data read via the memory control circuit 118 from the memory 120, performs JPEG decompression processing, and then performs scaling processing according to the print size set in step S232 (step S237). .

  The image data scaled to a predetermined size in step S237 is transferred to the printer 112 via the memory control circuit 118, and the image data is printed according to the number of prints set in step S232 (step S238).

  The CPU 114 determines whether or not reading of all the image data set in step S232 has been completed (step S239). If all the image data has not been read, the process returns to step S234.

  If it is determined in step S239 that all the image data set in step S232 has been read, the CPU 114 displays a log regarding print information via the display device 110, for example, the number of printed image data, The warning information and fee recorded in S240 are displayed (step S215), and the process returns to step S202.

  If the print request index sheet 300 is not readable in step S230, a warning is displayed on the display device 110 (step S204), and the process returns to step S202.

  In the second embodiment described above, the print request index sheet is indispensable description in the reprint print mode. However, it is possible to select the reprint image data directly, the number of prints, Of course, it is possible to control to set the print image size or the like.

  Furthermore, an object of the present invention is to supply a storage medium storing software program codes for realizing the functions of the first embodiment or the second embodiment described above to a system or apparatus, and a computer of the system or apparatus. It is also achieved by (or CPU or MPU) reading and executing the program code stored in the storage medium.

  In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

  As a storage medium for supplying the program code, for example, a flexible disk, a hard disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a CD-ROM, a CD-R, a magnetic tape, a nonvolatile memory card, a ROM, or the like can be used.

  Further, by executing the program code read by the computer, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also an OS (operating system) operating on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. A case where part or all of the actual processing is performed and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing is also included.

  Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written into a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, the function expansion is performed based on the instruction of the program code. This includes a case where the CPU or the like provided in the board or the function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing, and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing.

  As shown in the first and second embodiments described above, by creating index print image data from thumbnail images, the time for reading image data can be greatly reduced, and printing operations can be performed. Can be made more efficient.

  Also, by executing extra prints based on the information entered in the index sheet for print requests, it is possible to prevent mistakes due to input work during extra prints, and to greatly improve work efficiency during printing. The Also. A client who orders reprinting can easily specify an image to be reprinted from the index print image for print request, and can easily place an order without being familiar with the operation of the digital camera or personal computer.

  Further, as described in the second embodiment, the image data is transferred and recorded on an optical disk device, a magnetic disk device, or an external recording device, and the recording destination is described on the print request index sheet, so that no original image is held. Even a user can order a reprint if there is an index sheet for print request.

  In addition, during the print request as before, it was necessary to leave the semiconductor memory card on which the image data was recorded to the print service provider, so that the memory card could not be used during the service request. However, as described in the second embodiment, the above problem can be solved by temporarily recording the image data in another recording apparatus.

1 is a schematic configuration diagram of an image processing apparatus and an image printing system in a first embodiment. It is a figure which shows the index sheet for print requests in 1st embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the control flow of the image processing apparatus in 1st embodiment. It is a basic lineblock diagram of an image printing system in a second embodiment. It is a figure which shows the index sheet for print requests in 2nd embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a control flow of the image processing apparatus according to the second embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Image processing apparatus 102 Card reader 104 Scanner apparatus 106 Character recognition circuit 108 Image processing circuit 110 Display apparatus 112 Printer 114 CPU
116 Input Device 118 Memory Control Circuit 120 Memory 122 Memory 130 Optical Disk Device 132 Magnetic Disk Device 134 SCSI Interface 136 Recording Device 140 USB Interface 142 Electronic Camera 144 Card Reader 150 Communication Interface 152 Communication Interface 154 Recording Device 200 Recording Medium 300 Print Request Index Sheet 302 Index image 304 Image file name 306 Print number designation frame 308 Print size designation frame 310 Print format designation frame 312 Print number 314 Print size 400 Image processing device 500 Print request index sheet 502 Image data recording position information

Claims (32)

  A first input unit that captures print information in a predetermined format; a first reading unit that reads the print information via the first input unit; and a first input unit that captures image data from a recording medium on which image data is recorded. Second input means, second reading means for reading image data via the second input means, and predetermined information from the second reading means based on print information obtained from the first reading means. Selection means for selecting image data, image processing means for converting image data selectively read through the second reading means to a predetermined size, and output means for printing the converted image data And an image processing apparatus comprising display means for displaying print information or operation information.   One or a plurality of the image data read from the second reading means is converted into a predetermined size, includes the converted image and information for identifying the image data, and includes a print size, a print number, and a print format. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: an image forming unit that forms an image corresponding to information for designating at least one of the image data; and an output unit that prints the formed image.   Information for selectively reading out only the thumbnail image of the image data through the second reading means, converting the thumbnail of the image data into a predetermined size, and identifying the converted image and the image data And an image forming means for forming an image corresponding to information for designating at least one of the print size, the number of prints and the print format, and an output means for printing the formed image. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1.   The print information in the predetermined format includes one or a plurality of print images that can specify image data to be printed and information for identifying the image data, and has at least one of print size, number of prints, and print format. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the print information in the predetermined format includes information for identifying a recording medium or a recording apparatus on which image data to be printed is recorded.   2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the print information in the predetermined format includes information that can identify physical information regarding a recording position of the image data on a recording medium on which the image data to be printed is recorded. .   The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the print information in the predetermined format includes a URL on the Internet where image data to be printed is recorded.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first input unit has a scanner function including a photoelectric conversion element, and converts the print information in the predetermined format into electronic data.   The first reading unit has a character recognition unit, and from the information converted into electronic data by the first input unit, a number or name for specifying image data to be printed, a print size, a number of prints, a print format The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the two is extracted.   The first reading unit includes a character recognition unit, and extracts information that can identify a recording medium or a recording apparatus on which image data to be printed is recorded from information converted into electronic data by the first input unit. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:   The first reading means has character recognition means, and from the information converted into electronic data by the first input means, physical information relating to a recording position of the image data on a recording medium on which image data to be printed is recorded. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein information capable of identifying the target information is extracted.   The first reading means has character recognition means, and extracts an URL on the Internet where image data to be printed is recorded from information converted into electronic data by the first input means. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1.   The display means displays a warning when predetermined image data cannot be selected from the second reading means based on print information obtained from the first reading means. The image processing apparatus according to 1.   When the predetermined image data cannot be selected from the second reading unit based on the print information obtained from the first reading unit, the output unit prints warning information. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1.   Based on the print information obtained from the first reading means, the print information obtained from the first reading means is stored in the recording medium in the image data selectively read through the second reading means. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising recording means for recording.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the print information conforms to DPOF.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising recording means for recording image data readable via the second reading means on another recording medium different from the recording medium.   2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising communication means for recording image data readable via the second reading means on a recording apparatus connected via a communication line.   The image data that can be read through the second reading unit is recorded on another recording medium different from the recording medium, and the recording location is output as print information in the predetermined format. The image processing apparatus according to 1.   The image data readable by the second reading unit is recorded in a recording device connected via a communication line, and the recording location is output as print information in the predetermined format. The image processing apparatus according to 1.   In the case where the print information is given in advance to the image data obtained by the second reading unit, when the print information is not input to the first input unit, the second reading unit 2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein priority is given to print information added to the obtained image data.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the recording medium is a portable storage medium. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the recording medium is a portable memory card including a semiconductor memory, a magnetic memory, or an optical disk.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the recording medium is a semiconductor memory, a magnetic memory, or an optical disk built in an electronic camera having an image sensor.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second input unit is a memory card reader built in the image processing apparatus.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second input unit is a memory card reader connected to the image processing apparatus with a USB cable.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second input unit is an electronic camera connected to the image processing apparatus with a USB cable.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second input unit is a memory card reader connected to the image processing apparatus via a communication line.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second input unit is an electronic camera connected to the image processing apparatus via a communication line.   An image processing method of an image processing apparatus capable of reading print information in a predetermined format, wherein the print information is read through a first input step for capturing print information in a predetermined format, and the first input step. A first reading step; a second input step for capturing image data from a recording medium on which image data is recorded; a second reading step for reading image data via the second input step; A selection step of selecting predetermined image data from the second reading step based on print information obtained from the reading step, and image data selectively read through the second reading step An image processing method comprising: an image processing step for converting the image data into an image size; and an output step for printing the converted image data.   30. A computer-readable program that controls the image processing apparatus according to claim 1.   A storage medium storing the program according to claim 31 in a computer-readable form.

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