JP2010108165A - Photo-album print order acceptance device and photo-album print order acceptance program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a print order acceptance device for enabling an orderer to select an image, and to select the total number of pages of an album in the case of performing the album print order operation of a customer. <P>SOLUTION: This album print order acceptance device is provided with: an image selection acceptance means for accepting the selection of an image as an album print target; a page total number type creation means for creating the type of the total number of pages of an album print; a cost creation means for creating the creation costs of the album print corresponding to the type of the total number of pages; a page total number selection acceptance means for accepting the selection of the total number of pages based on the created type of the total number of pages displayed at the display means and the creation costs; and a layout setting means for setting an image layout in each page based on the accepted image and the total number of pages. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an album print order receiving apparatus used for a customer's album print ordering operation, and an album print order receiving program.

  At a photo store (also called a minilab store), a customer can bring in digital image data, and the customer can place an order for photo prints using a reception device installed in the store. For example, Patent Document 1 is known as this reception apparatus.

The ordering operation in this accepting apparatus is to first read digital image data from a medium storing digital image data and display it as a frame image, then select a print target, print number, print size, predetermined correction processing, etc. This is the flow to select and confirm the order. You can also select a photo print finish type, such as a type that forms one photo for each frame image, an index print in which multiple frame images are arranged in one photo, and finally an album. There is also a type called album print that is printed to be edited.
JP 2006-103100 A

  Unlike the other print types, the above-mentioned album print ordering operations tend to require a lot of time for image selection, editing, and page layout. There is a problem that the rate deteriorates. In particular, if the album print ordering operation is provided with image layout setting and image editing functions that are not included in the L size print ordering, the time taken by the accepting apparatus becomes longer.

  On the other hand, image layout settings, image editing functions, and the like are advanced functions, and it is predicted that they may be complicated and difficult to understand depending on the customer, and may be omitted as unnecessary functions. Further, it is predicted that the customer will make an inquiry to the store clerk due to the complexity of the order operation, etc., and there is a risk that the customer satisfaction will be lowered due to the complexity of the order operation and the workability of the store clerk will be lowered.

  Further, in the conventional album print ordering method, the number of pages of the album is set in advance for the convenience of the printing operation of the album binding machine or the photo shop. For example, in the case of a bookbinding type album, the number of pages of thickness applied to the bookbinding machine is set to, for example, 5 or more and 50 or less. Moreover, since it is preferable that the number of pages is as large as possible from the viewpoint of the work efficiency of the photo shop, the number of album pages is set to be ordered in units of 10 pages such as 20 pages, 30 pages, 40 pages, In many cases, the number of pages is automatically determined by the apparatus after selecting the number of image frames. Since the album creation cost is determined according to the number of pages, the album creation cost could not be known until after the order was confirmed. If this cost is higher than expected, the order may be canceled. In such a case, the orderer needs to inform the store clerk directly of the cancellation.

  That is, from the orderer side, there are cases where the orderer side wants to determine the number of album pages at the time of ordering together with image selection, and further, there is a desire to select the page number according to the cost that varies depending on the page number.

  Accordingly, the present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a print order receiving apparatus that enables an orderer to select the total number of pages of an album together with the selection of images in a customer's album print ordering operation. It is to provide an album print order reception program.

In order to solve the above-described problem, an album print order receiving apparatus according to the present invention includes:
An album print order receiving device used for a customer's album print order operation,
Image selection accepting means for accepting selection of images to be printed on the album;
A page total number selection receiving means for receiving an input of the total number of pages;
And a layout setting unit that sets an image layout in each page based on the image received by the image selection receiving unit and the total number of pages received by the page total number selection receiving unit.

  The effect by this structure is as follows. The image selection accepting unit accepts selection of an album print target image. The image is displayed on the display means and is selected by the orderer. Then, the input of the total number of pages is accepted. The orderer refers to, for example, a price list juxtaposed to the receiving device (cost per page, cover cost, cost per page, album set price such as 20 or 30). Thus, the total number of pages can be input, and the order can be placed while calculating the cost for the order in advance. Then, the layout setting means sets the image layout in each page based on the image received by the image selection receiving means and the total number of pages received by the page total number selection receiving means. A frame image is arranged on each page based on the set layout. From the above, according to this album print order receiving apparatus, the orderer can select the total number of album pages while considering the creation cost together with the image selection, so there is no cancellation after confirming the order, there is no useless order, The ordering operation of the orderer can be shortened, the order turnover rate can be improved, and customer satisfaction can be improved.

  The “layout” is a concept including the total number of pages, the number of images per page, the size of the frame image, and the positional relationship with respect to the pages. This print order receiving apparatus can perform other ordering operations in addition to the album print ordering operation. For example, the print order receiving device can accept orders such as normal photo prints such as the L version, index prints, and writing to CDs.

In the present invention described above,
A total page number type creation means for creating a total page type of album print;
Cost creation means for creating an album print creation cost according to the type of the total number of pages created;
The page total number selection accepting unit can accept selection of any one of the page totals based on the type of the total number of created pages displayed on the display unit and the creation cost according to the type of the total number of pages. Configure.

  According to this configuration, the total page number type creation means creates the total number of pages of the album print. The “type of total number of pages” can be created based on preset conditions from the total number of selected images, for example. In the case of the album binding type (single-sided printing), the type can be created based on “cover page + contents page + back cover page + 1 + number of posted images per page” as a condition. For example, when the number of selected images is 20, the page types are, for example, first “cover page + contents page + back cover page + 20” and secondly “cover page + back cover page + 20 ( Other types can be arbitrarily created, such as “one frame on one page)”, and third “cover page + contents page + back cover page + 10 (two frames on one page)”.

  Then, the cost creation means creates an album print creation cost according to the type of the total number of pages created. The type of the total number of pages and the creation cost corresponding to the type of the total number of pages are displayed on the display means, and the orderer selects the type of total number of pages created and the type of the total number of pages by the page total number selection receiving means. Based on the corresponding creation cost, any one of the total number of pages is selected and accepted. Therefore, since the creation cost is automatically calculated according to the total number of pages, it is not necessary for the orderer to calculate the creation cost, reducing the orderer's labor, order contents (number of pages, presence of cover, etc.) and Since the cost can be accepted and the order can be placed, the customer satisfaction can be improved without canceling on the way.

Further, in the present invention, after the processing by the image selection receiving means, further comprising an album size selection receiving means for receiving an album size selection,
The layout setting means sets the maximum number of images posted on one page set in advance according to the album size received by the album size selection receiving means, and the total number of pages received by the page total number selection receiving means. Based on this, an image layout in each page is set.

  According to this configuration, the album size selection accepting unit accepts the album size selection after the processing by the image selection accepting unit. Depending on the album size, the maximum number of images (number of frames) that can be posted on one page and the frame size are preset. For example, in the case of the first album size (vertical 8 inches × horizontal 10 inches), the number of posted frames per page is set to 2 and the frame size is set to E size or L size. Also, for example, it is possible to set one frame on two spread pages. Then, the layout setting means is based on the maximum number of images posted on one page set in advance according to the album size received by the album size selection receiving means and the total number of pages received by the page total number selection receiving means. The image layout in each page can be set.

Further, in the present invention, the page total number type creating unit creates a type of the total number of pages that can be album printed based on the image received by the image selection receiving unit, which is equal to or greater than the total number of the image,
The type of the total number of pages that can be printed on the album displayed on the display unit includes at least a type that is greater than or equal to the minimum number of pages that can be created by the album and a type that is greater than or equal to the total number of the images created by the total number of page types creation unit. It is the structure characterized by this.

  According to this configuration, the total page number type creating unit creates the total number of pages that can be album-printed based on the images received by the image selection receiving unit. As described above, for example, it can be created based on a preset condition from the total number of selected images. In the case of album binding type (single-sided printing), the type should be created based on “cover page + table of contents page + back cover page + number of posted images per page + α (illustration page, thigh page, etc.)” Can do. The display means displays the types of the total number of pages that can be printed on a plurality of albums. Among these, the types of images that are the minimum number of pages that can be created for the album and the images created by the total number of page types creation means are displayed. More than the total number of types is included.

In addition, the present invention
An album print order reception program used for a customer's album print order operation,
An image selection accepting step for accepting selection of images to be printed on the album;
A page total number selection reception step for receiving an input of the total number of pages;
For causing a computer to execute an image received in the image selection receiving step and a layout setting step for setting an image layout in each page based on the page total received in the page total number selection receiving step This is an album print order reception program.

In the present invention described above,
A total page type creation step for creating the total number of pages of the album print;
A cost creation step of creating a cost for creating an album print according to the type of the total number of created pages;
Causing the computer to further execute a type of the total number of pages created and a step of displaying a creation cost corresponding to the type of the total number of pages on a display unit;
In the page total number selection receiving step, the selection of any one of the total pages is received based on the type of the total number of generated pages displayed on the display unit and the creation cost according to the type of the total number of pages. Further, it is characterized by causing a computer to execute.

In the present invention, after the processing by the image selection receiving step, the computer further executes an album size selection receiving step for receiving an album size selection,
In the layout setting step, the maximum number of images posted on one page set in advance according to the album size received in the album size selection reception step and the total number of pages received in the page total number selection reception step On the basis of this, the computer is caused to execute so as to set an image layout in each page.

In the present invention, in the page total number type creation step, based on the image received in the image selection reception step, so as to create a type of the total number of pages that can be album printed that is equal to or greater than the total number of the image, Let the computer run,
The type of the total number of pages that can be printed on the album displayed on the display means includes at least a type that is equal to or greater than the minimum number of pages that can be created as an album and a type that is equal to or greater than the total number of the images created in the total number of pages type creation step. It is characterized by that.

  The operational effects of these program configurations are the same as the operational effects of the album print order receiving apparatus described above.

  In the present invention, an “order” is an order unit when a photographic print is created. “One order” refers to a group of image data related to a print order for one or more films, one or more recording media, and one or more image data folders. The concept of one order can be set as appropriate by the operator and the orderer. The same applies hereinafter.

(Actual form 1)
A preferred embodiment of an album print order receiving apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 shows an example of the configuration of a photo processing system installed in a photo shop. The type of printer and the number of printers installed are not limited to those in Fig. 1. Further, the number of installed image processing apparatuses 4 and print order receiving apparatuses (corresponding to album print order receiving apparatuses) 1 is not limited to that shown in FIG. Each device constituting the photo processing system is connected to each other by a network such as a LAN.

<System configuration>
This photo processing system is a system for performing image recording such as creation of a photo print and writing of an image on a storage medium. Image data relating to a photo print order is recorded on a recording medium brought by the customer. The customer operates the print order receiving apparatus 1 and can order a photographic print based on the image data recorded on the recording medium. Also, the image data relating to the order can be read from the negative film using a scanner (not shown). In addition, so-called online print ordering is also possible in which an orderer accesses a photo shop server via the Internet from a home PC or mobile terminal and places an order. The online print order is a well-known configuration and will not be described in detail.

  The silver halide printer can create a photographic print based on the image data. When creating a photographic print, image data processed for printing is transmitted to an exposure engine, and an image is printed and exposed on a photographic photosensitive material such as paper. A photographic print can be created by developing the paper on which the image has been printed and exposed.

  A medium writing device (not shown) has a function of writing image data on a recording medium such as a CD-R (an example of a storage medium). By transmitting the image data from the image processing device 4 to the medium writing device, the image data can be written on a recording medium such as a CD-R.

(Inkjet printer)
The main functions of the inkjet printer 3 will be described. The ink jet printer 3 includes a communication unit (not shown) for various data communication. This communication unit receives image data for printing from the image processing apparatus 4 and stores it in a memory (not shown). The ink jet printer 3 includes an information processing apparatus. The information processing apparatus may be incorporated in the ink jet printer 3 or may be separated as a separate body. A personal computer is exemplified as the information processing apparatus.

  The ink jet printer 3 has a RIP processing unit (not shown), and this RIP processing unit has a function of executing RIP processing. The RIP processing unit performs RIP processing on the print image data of the RGB image data related to the photo print processing, and develops it into grayscale data for each CMYK. Here, the RIP processing unit is configured by a cooperative action of a software program and hardware resources (CPU, memory, etc.) of the information processing apparatus described above.

  FIG. 3 shows an outline of the configuration of the ink jet printer 3. The printing process of the inkjet printer 3 is as follows. In this configuration, a sheet of paper P (inkjet paper) is stocked in the paper stock unit 30, and the paper P is conveyed downstream by a paper feed mechanism. The conveyed paper P is sucked and primarily held by the suction unit 32 of the lower printing unit (not shown) in the drawing. The printing unit performs printing processing based on gray scale data for each CMYK. The printing unit includes CMYK print heads 31. The print head 31 performs one scan in the main scanning direction on the paper P that is intermittently conveyed. During this scanning, ink is ejected from the ink ejection nozzles of each color and adheres to the surface of the paper P. By repeating this intermittent conveyance, main scanning operation, and ink ejection operation, an image is formed in the print area of the paper P. From the data for image formation (gray scale data for each CMYK), the ejection amount and ejection coordinates from each ink ejection nozzle are calculated. The ink discharge nozzle is controlled based on the discharge amount and discharge coordinates. Examples of the ink ejection method include a general piezo method in which ink is ejected from an ink ejection nozzle communicating with the pressure chamber by changing the volume of the pressure chamber filled with ink by a piezo element. These control means may be constituted by hardware such as a CPU (including an MPU), a memory, a bus and the like, and program software describing various control procedures, or may be constituted by a combination of a dedicated circuit and firmware. May be.

  The print head 31 may have a configuration in which a head unit provided with a large number of ink ejection nozzles on the bottom surface thereof is arranged in two stages in the sub-scanning direction, or may have a configuration of one stage or three or more stages. . For example, the head unit is composed of seven nozzle arrays, and in each nozzle array, the ink discharge nozzles are arranged in a row in the sub-scanning direction. Thereby, each head unit can form a color image by itself.

  Next, the sheet P on which the image is formed is conveyed to the cutting unit 33. In the case of single-sided printing, the cutting unit 33 (for example, a rotating blade) cuts unnecessary portions in the paper P by moving in the paper width direction. In the case of double-sided printing, the cutting process may be executed after completion of double-sided printing. Next, in the case of single-sided printing, information such as an identification number, a frame number, and a date is printed on the back side of the paper P by back printing means (not shown). This back printing process is an arbitrary process. Next, the image forming surface of the paper P is dried by the drying unit 34 on the downstream side of the conveyance. The dried paper P is conveyed upward in the drawing. Then, as shown in the lower part of FIG. 3, when performing double-sided printing, the paper P <b> 1 is fed by a predetermined amount by the reverse mechanism 35 and the roller pair 351, stopped and held, and rotated at a predetermined angle. The sheet P <b> 1 is configured to be conveyed to the printing unit side so that the back surface is printed by the conveying action by the auxiliary roller 352 and the roller pair 351. In the printing unit, the printing process is performed on the back side, then the cutting process is performed as necessary, and then the drying process is performed. The discharge unit 36 includes sorting means (not shown), and sorting processing is performed for each order.

(Print order acceptance device)
The print order receiving apparatus 1 is operated by a customer and can receive image data, set order contents, and the like. The print order receiving apparatus 1 itself may have the function of an image forming printer. For example, a thermal sublimation type printer is incorporated. In this case, the printing process can be performed independently regardless of other devices connected to the network. When the print order receiving apparatus 1 does not have a built-in printer for image formation, or when printing with another printer (or writing to a medium), the image processing apparatus 4 or directly via the network. Transfer the image data to be printed to the printer. The image processing device 4 will be described later.

  The print order receiving apparatus 1 includes a media driving unit 10 and can take in image data stored in various media A. Examples of the medium A include a CD-R, a storage medium for a digital camera, and an MO disk. Further, image data can be acquired from a photographic print without a photographic film by a flat bed scanner (not shown). Further, the image receiving apparatus 1 includes a monitor 12 and can display input image data on a screen. Further, the setting of order contents can be performed by the touch panel 13 provided on the monitor screen. Of course, input means such as a keyboard and a mouse may be provided.

  The print order receiving apparatus 1 includes a receipt issuing unit 11 and prints out a receipt when order details are confirmed. Order details, billing information, customer information, etc. are printed on the receipt. By handing this receipt to the person in charge of the photo shop, image recording, fee payment, etc. are performed.

  The configuration of the print order receiving apparatus 1 will be described with reference to the functional block diagram of FIG. The print order receiving apparatus 1 includes a controller C and is connected to various hardware via an interface 20. That is, the media driving unit 10, the receipt issuing unit 11, the monitor 12, the touch panel 13, and the hard disk 14 are connected via the interface 20. The hard disk 14 stores the image data acquired via the media driving unit 10 together with data relating to the order. The hard disk 14 may function as a work area when the CPU is executed in addition to the function as the large capacity storage unit. Further, a memory (main memory, ROM, etc.) (not shown) is provided on the controller C side.

  When a photographic print is created by the inkjet printer 3, the image data and the data related to the order are sent to the network via the network interface 15 at an appropriate timing.

  The display control unit 21 controls display contents to be displayed on the monitor 12. The display control unit 21 provides display screens related to various operations so that the customer can easily perform the order receiving process. Operation screen data is stored in a memory (not shown). The display order of the operation screens is set in advance.

  The image selection receiving unit 101 (corresponding to an image selection receiving unit) is a function for selecting an image to be album printed. The “album target image” includes a frame image used for a cover page and a middle page. Among a plurality of frame images displayed on the monitor 12, an album print target image can be individually selected or all frames can be selected. For example, a frame image is displayed in an unused state as an album target, and a customer selects an album symmetric frame image using the touch panel 13 by his / her own judgment.

  The top / bottom adjustment processing unit 26 has a function of adjusting the top / bottom direction of the album print target image. Among the plurality of frame images displayed on the monitor 12, the top / bottom adjustment can be performed on the image to be printed. As a top-and-bottom adjustment method, for example, it may be rotated clockwise every 90 degrees or may be configured to rotate 180 degrees. Moreover, before selecting an album print target image among a plurality of frame images displayed on the monitor 12, the top / bottom adjustment may be performed, and the album print target image may be selected after the top / bottom adjustment. In this case, since it is possible to determine whether to include the frame image after adjusting the top and bottom, it is possible to eliminate omission of selection and improve the operability of the customer.

  In addition, the top-and-bottom adjustment processing unit 26 acquires Exif information for each frame image, determines the top-and-bottom direction from data included in the Exif information, and automatically adjusts the top-and-bottom direction when displaying it on the monitor 12. The frame image is configured to be displayed.

  The album print target image can be specified by the functions of the image selection receiving unit 101 and the top / bottom adjustment processing unit 26 described above. The album print target image of the album image data specified and set in this way can be displayed as an album finished state by the function of the album display processing unit 27.

  The album display processing unit 27 is configured to display the album finish state in, for example, a bound album state. In the case of this bound book, it is possible to open from the front cover to the last page (or back cover) one page at a time, and to confirm the frame image arranged there for each page or spread page. In addition, a configuration that automatically executes an operation process of opening one page at a time from the front cover, a configuration that sets the page turning timing at a predetermined time (1 to several seconds) interval, a configuration that stops at an arbitrary page, and a stopped operation Is configured to re-execute, the automatic operation of the opening operation process is canceled, and the operation is performed so that each page is turned by an input command, and the operation process is opened to the front cover one page at a time from the last page (or back cover). It is possible to further have a configuration or the like.

  The album size selection receiving unit 23 (corresponding to the album size selection receiving means) is a function for selecting the size of the album when setting the album print orderable state. As for the album size, for example, in the case of a bookbinding type finish, width 8 inches × length 8 inches, width 8 inches × length 10 inches, width 10 inches × length 8 inches, and the like are exemplified. Depending on the album size, the maximum number of images (number of frames) that can be posted on one page and the frame size are preset. For example, in the case of the first album size (vertical 8 inches × horizontal 10 inches), the number of posted frames per page is set to 2 and the frame size is set to E size or L size. Also, as the index page of the album, the number of frames to be published per page can be set to 8 or more, and the frame size can be set to change accordingly. It can also be set so that one frame is posted on two spread pages.

  The template design selection processing unit 24 has a function of selecting an album template design when setting the album print orderable state. The template design can be configured to select the same design for both the cover and the middle page, or can be configured to select different designs for the cover and the middle page. In addition, the design of the middle page can be set in units of pages or spread pages.

  A page total number type creating unit 102 (corresponding to a page total number type creating unit) creates a type of the total number of pages of the album print. The “type of total number of pages” can be created based on preset conditions from the total number of selected images, for example. In the case of the album binding type (single-sided printing), the type can be created based on “cover page + contents page + back cover page + 1 + number of posted images per page” as a condition. For example, when the number of selected images is 20, the page types are, for example, first “cover page + contents page + back cover page + 20” and secondly “cover page + back cover page + 20 ( Other types can be arbitrarily created, such as “one frame on one page)”, and third “cover page + contents page + back cover page + 10 (two frames on one page)”. Also, the total page number type creation unit 102 sets the number of pages based on the range from the minimum number of pages to the maximum number of pages according to the album type or according to the album binding machine.

  The cost creation unit 103 (corresponding to the cost creation means) creates an album print creation cost according to the type of the total number of pages created. The fee structure data of creation costs corresponding to the total number of pages for each album type is preset and stored in a memory (not shown). The expense creation unit 103 can create an album print creation expense by searching for a charge corresponding to the total number of pages based on the fee structure data. The type of the total number of pages and the creation cost corresponding to the type of the total number of pages are displayed on the display means.

  The page total number selection receiving unit 104 (corresponding to the page total number selection receiving unit) is a function that receives an input of the total number of pages from the orderer. The input form of the total number of pages is not particularly limited. Select an input form in which numbers are directly input, an input form in which the numbers displayed on the screen are increased or decreased, and a total number of pages of multiple types displayed on the screen. The input form etc. which are input are illustrated. For example, the page total number selection accepting unit 104 has a function of accepting an input of any one of the page totals based on the type of the total number of pages created above and the creation cost according to the type of the total number of pages. Yes.

  The layout setting unit 105 (corresponding to the layout setting unit) determines the image layout in each page based on the image received by the image selection receiving unit 101 and the total number of pages received by the total page selection receiving unit 104. It is a function to set. The layout setting unit 105 also sets the maximum number of images to be posted on one page set in advance according to the album size received by the album size selection receiving unit 23 and the page received by the page total number selection receiving unit 104. Based on the total number, the image layout within each page can be set. A frame image is arranged on each page based on the set layout. As a layout setting method, for example, a preset fixed pattern can be used within the maximum number of frames per page. Examples of fixed patterns are 1 frame, 2 frames or 3 frames per page, 1 frame for even pages + 2 frames for odd pages, 2 frames for even pages, 1 frame for odd pages, etc. There are many patterns such as one frame for the second page, two frames for the second page, three frames for the third page, and two frames for the fourth page. Further, the number of frames per page can be set based on a random number. A random number generation program can use a predetermined random number generation program. Further, a setting based on a fixed pattern and a random number can be used in combination with a predetermined rule. Further, the total number of pages of the album is set to be an even number in the case of duplex printing.

  The image processing unit 28 is a function for executing predetermined image processing on album image data (including the frame image of the middle page and the frame image of the cover) after setting the album print orderable state. Examples of the predetermined image processing include processing for selecting a specific image, density change processing, size change processing, layout change processing, rotation processing, and the like for the selected image. In addition, a means for selecting various processes for the selected image is provided.

  The image processing unit 28 further has a function of performing various image processing on the image data. Examples of the contents of the image processing include image correction such as color / density correction, red-eye correction, backlight correction, and trimming. When creating a print, image processing is performed on the original image data to generate print image data.

  The cover edit unit 281 has a function of editing the cover of the album after setting the album print orderable state. Examples of cover editing include, for example, selection of a cover frame image, density change processing, size change processing, layout change processing, and rotation processing. The function of the cover page editing unit 281 may be configured to be included in the function of the image processing unit 28.

  The number of copies setting unit 29 is a function for setting the number of copies to be printed after setting the album print orderable state.

  Each function of the controller C can be realized by, for example, a computer program, a cooperative action of a CPU and a memory, and the program is stored in a ROM (not shown). Further, the controller C may be constituted by a dedicated circuit, firmware, or the like, or a combination thereof.

(Image processing device)
The image processing apparatus 4 has a function of managing image data in order units. It also has a function of controlling photo print processing and media writing processing in units of orders. Hereinafter, an example of main components of the image processing apparatus 4 will be described, but the present invention is not limited to this.

  The image processing apparatus 4 includes order information storage means (not shown) and has a function of storing order information. Further, the image processing apparatus 4 includes order management means for managing and controlling image data and order information related to a photo print order. The order management means can set printer settings, print order, and the like regarding print processing. In addition, regarding the print order, it has a function of displaying order information on the monitor and changing the print order.

  The order information storage means stores correction information, image data, order information, and the like set by pre-judge processing to be described later. Further, the image data may be data after image processing based on the correction information.

  The image processing apparatus 4 includes display means such as a monitor as various operation screens and input means such as a keyboard and a mouse for various inputs.

(Judge processing)
The judgment unit has a function of executing pre-judge processing for image data. In pre-judge processing, a predetermined number of frame images can be displayed on a monitor, and print conditions can be set for each frame image. For example, arbitrary image data (order-based image data) stored in the image data storage unit is selected, a predetermined number (for example, 4 frames, 6 frames) of frame images are displayed on the monitor, and the displayed frames are displayed. Print conditions such as the number of prints, print size, and image correction information can be set for the image. The pre-judgment process determines whether or not a photographic print having an appropriate image quality is created before creating a photographic print based on the image data. The pre-judge process has a function for the operator to make a determination on the image data. And such functionality is provided primarily by software. This pre-judge process is not necessarily performed, and the print process can be performed without the pre-judge process.

  The judgment means provides, for example, a function for inputting correction information for correcting color and density, and the input of such correction information is set as necessary. Examples of other correction information settings include special correction settings such as red-eye correction and backlight correction.

  In addition, as the setting of the number of prints, 1 is set by default for image data acquired from a film scanner, but it can be changed by an operator's input operation. The set correction information is stored in the order information storage unit in association with the image data and the order information.

  The print image data creation means performs image processing on the corresponding image data based on the correction data of the print conditions set by the judgment means and the correction information such as the print size, and print image data (RGB image data). ). The print image data creation means is exemplified by a configuration realized by a cooperative action of a computer program and hardware resources such as a CPU and a memory, and a configuration of an image processing board configured by a dedicated circuit. The image processing board includes, for example, an input memory, an image processing circuit unit, and a development memory, and predetermined image processing is performed in the image processing circuit unit. Specifically, color / density correction based on correction data such as pre-judge processing, data expansion / contraction processing according to a set print size, and the like. The print image data created here is transmitted to the printer side by communication means. The print image data creation means has a function of performing image processing on the album image data created by the album image data creation means in accordance with correction information for each frame image.

  The album creation data storage means stores album template information. The album template information includes, for example, an album type, an album size, the number of images per page, an image arrangement (layout), an album design, a cover design, and the like, and is set by the print order receiving apparatus 1. And at least various setting information of the album.

  The album image data creating means has a function of creating album image data based on the image data and album setting information. The image data may be subjected to image processing based on correction information set by pre-judge processing, or may be subjected to predetermined correction (for example, reddish correction) set in advance.

  When the order information received from the print order receiving apparatus 1 includes image data (various image processed) and album setting information for each frame image subject to album printing, various ID information in the album setting information is keyed The various album setting data stored in the album creation data storage means are searched. Based on the retrieved album setting data, the image data is subjected to image composition processing to create album image data.

  As another embodiment, when the print order receiving apparatus 1 has a function of album image data creating means, album image data (corresponding to the album image data described in the print order receiving apparatus 1 described above) is used. Is transmitted from the print order receiving apparatus 1 side and stored in the order information storage means. In this case, the image processing apparatus 4 can be configured not to perform processing for creating album image data.

  Further, the album image created by the album image data creating means or the album image related to the album image data transmitted from the print order receiving apparatus 1 side is displayed on the display means so that the operator can confirm or edit the image. The

  When the print control unit receives the print instruction, the print control unit instructs the print image data generation unit to generate print image data based on the image data of the order instructed to print, and in response thereto, the print image data generation unit As a result, image data for printing is created.

  The album print control means is a function for controlling to print the album image data created by the album image data creating means or the album image data transmitted from the print order receiving apparatus 1 side. Upon receipt of the album print instruction, the album print control means instructs the print image data creation means to create album print image data based on the album image data, and the print image data creation means accordingly. Album print image data is created. The created album print image data is transmitted to the printer, and the printer performs a photo print process based on the album print image data.

  As another embodiment, album image data may be transmitted directly from the print order receiving apparatus 1 side to the printer side, and the album print image data may be created on the printer side.

(Flow of album order in print order reception device)
Next, an album order procedure will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 4 and the order operation screens of FIGS.

  The language of the operation screen can be selected on the order operation screen as shown in FIG. When the “Japanese” part is touched, the Japanese operation screen mode is selected, and the next order menu screen is displayed in Japanese. The language selection of the operation screen is set based on the language data of the operation screen in FIG. This screen may be omitted and may be started from the next screen.

  In the order menu selection screen of FIG. 11, an “album” button 1101 is touched to select an album order (step S1). On the next screen (FIG. 12), the album print ordering operation type can be selected. This screen is displayed when multiple order operation types are set. Here, a “type 4 (photo book)” button 1201 is touched to shift to the next screen. Note that this screen is omitted, and the screen can be changed from the screen of FIG. 11 to the screen of FIG. The order operation procedure of type 4 (photo book) is configured to shorten the order operation occupation time while simplifying the order operation and maintaining the merchantability of the album in order to achieve the object of the present invention.

  In the screen of FIG. 13, the customer's media A is inserted into the media driving unit 10 of the print order receiving apparatus 1 with or without selecting the type of media. When the media type is not selected, the media type is automatically determined, and the corresponding media drive unit 10 is activated. Image data is read from the medium A (step S2).

  A plurality of folders may be created on the medium A. There is also a desire to select and read a necessary image from the media A. In such a case, on the screen of FIG. 14, a configuration for reading in units of folders created on the medium A, a configuration for reading every shooting date, and a configuration for reading all frame images can be selected. . For example, when “Classify by folder” is touched, the screen shown in FIG. 15 is displayed. On this screen, the image data is classified and displayed for each folder, and a plurality of folders can be selected at the time of selection. It is also possible to review and confirm the frame images in the folder.

  In addition, when image data is read, it is preferable that thumbnail image data of a frame image is read instead of the image data itself. When the thumbnail image data is not included, the image data may be read and a thumbnail image may be generated from the original image. This thumbnail image is used for display. The image data or thumbnail image data includes an image ID. The image data preferably includes Exif information.

  Next, when the image data is successfully read, the screen shown in FIG. 16 is displayed. On this screen, the process proceeds to selection of the image to be used for the middle page and top-to-bottom adjustment (step S3). In the screen of FIG. 16, frame images can be individually selected. All images can be selected at once. In addition, the frame image can be rotated for the top and bottom adjustment. The display number can be switched, and the display can be switched in order of old shooting date or new shooting date based on the current time. When the selection of the image is completed, the “OK” button is touched to shift to the image of FIG.

  In the screen of FIG. 17, the size of the album is selected (step S4). The size of the album that can be provided at this photo store is displayed on the monitor 12. The size of the album is preset in album size data (FIG. 7) and album template data (FIG. 6), and can be set and changed as appropriate when setting the operation screen. After selection, the “OK” button is touched to shift to the screen of FIG. On this screen, you can select the album design. You can set the design of albums that can be provided. A desired design can be touched from the design list to display a review. The album design is preset in album design data (FIG. 9) and album template data (FIG. 6), and is stored in a memory (not shown). Also, these data can be set and changed as appropriate when setting the operation screen. After the selection, the “OK” button is touched to shift to the screen of FIG. The selection of the album design can be omitted, and a configuration using the default album design may be used.

  Next, the total number of pages is selected by the screen operation of FIG. 19 (step S6). In the screen of FIG. 19, the column 1901 displays data such as the total number of pages, the breakdown of the pages (number of covers, table of contents, middle pages, back cover, etc.), and charges as the types of total pages (step S5). . In the column at the top of the screen, the minimum total number of pages is displayed. These types of the total number of pages are created by the function of the above-described total number of pages type creating unit 102 (step S5). The total number of pages is selected by touching the “total number of pages” button and touching the “OK” button at the lower right of the screen. Alternatively, the total number of pages can be freely input in the screen column 1902. The total number of pages can be changed from the initial value “20” by touching an up / down button 1903. It can be varied within a preset page number range (for example, the minimum number of 20 pages to the maximum number of 50 pages). The presence / absence of a front cover / back cover can be selected by touching a check box 1904, indicating that it is currently checked because it is “black”. Similarly, the table of contents can be selected by a check box 1905. In accordance with the total number of pages, the charge in the charge column 1906 is automatically created and the display is switched (step S5). When selecting the number of pages here, the “select” button 1907 is touched, and the “OK” button at the lower right of the screen is touched to select the total number of pages. A layout is set according to the total number of selected pages and the total number of frame images selected in step S3 (step S7).

  As another embodiment, in steps S5 and S6, it is possible to omit the process of creating and displaying the data of the type of the total number of pages and its charge, and the orderer can arbitrarily enter the total number of pages. The orderer can input the total number of pages with reference to, for example, a price list juxtaposed on the reception device, and can place an order while calculating the cost for the order in advance.

  Next, on the screen of FIG. 20, the cover image can be selected and the top and bottom can be adjusted (step S8). In the screen of FIG. 20, a frame image to be included in the cover can be selected. In addition, the frame image can be rotated for the top and bottom adjustment. The display number can be switched, and the display can be switched in order of old shooting date or new shooting date based on the current time. Note that step S6 may be omitted, and an arbitrarily selected frame image (for example, the first frame, a randomly selected frame image, or the like) may be used. Next, by selecting an “OK” button, reading of image data is started as shown in FIG. 21 (step S9). Note that this process is omitted when the original image data has already been read.

  The frame images specified as album targets and adjusted in the vertical direction constitute album image data according to the layout set in step S7. Based on this data, a frame image can be confirmed in the album display state on the next screen of FIG. 22 (step S10). In the screen of FIG. 22, reference numeral 2301 denotes the appearance of a bookbinding type album. Actually, the title is displayed in the title column, and the selected frame image is displayed in the cover image column. As shown in FIG. 23, the bookbinding album 2401 automatically opens from the front cover to the last page one page at a time, and the frame images arranged there can be confirmed in page units or spread page units. The page turning timing is set in advance. Further, it is possible to stop at any page by touching the “stop” button 2402, and the stopped operation can be configured to restart the automatic turning by touching the “stop” button 2402 again. Alternatively, the automatic operation of the opening operation process may be canceled by touching a “stop” button 2402 and executed so as to be turned on a page-by-page basis in response to input commands of “arrow” buttons 2403 and 2404.

  Further, the number of album copies can be set in the number of copies column 2302 (steps S11 and S12). “1 copy” is set as an initial value.

  Also, by touching the “Cover Cover Edit” button 2303, the screen shown in FIG. 24 can be displayed to edit the cover page (steps S13 and S14). In the screen of FIG. 24, the selected frame image 2502 is shown in the cover image column 2501. Candidate frame images are shown in the column 2503, and the cover image can be replaced by touching an arbitrary frame image and then touching the “Confirm image” button 2504. Further, the frame image 2502 can be moved in the cover image column 2501, and can be designated by touching the move button in the right column 2505. In addition, the frame image can be rotated and enlarged / reduced. Further, by touching the “Edit Title” button, the screen moves to the screen of FIG. 25, and the main title 2601, subtitle, and spine can be edited. The editing field 2602 is configured to touch a field to be edited, display a character key (not shown) on the screen, and touch the key to edit the character.

  Also, by touching the “middle page edit” button 2304, the screen shown in FIG. 26 is displayed and the image of the middle page can be edited (steps S15 and S16). In the screen of FIG. 26, the selected frame image 2702 is shown in the page image column 2701. Candidate frame images are shown in a column 2703, and a frame image can be replaced by touching an arbitrary frame image and touching an “image confirmation” button 2704. Further, the frame image 2702 can be moved in the page image column 2701, and this can be designated by touching the move button in the right column 2705. In addition, the frame image can be rotated and enlarged / reduced. Also, density correction can be set for each frame image, and red-eye correction and backlight correction can be set.

  Returning to FIG. 23, after confirming all of the album display state (including confirmation of frame images), the number of copies, cover cover editing, and middle page editing, a “print image confirmation” button 2405 is touched to confirm them. As a result, the image to be printed and the specification of the album are determined. The number of copies setting, cover page editing, and middle page editing are not essential operations and can be omitted.

  Next, a charge related to the order can be displayed on the screen shown in FIG. Note that character keys and numeric keys for inputting the orderer's name and contact information may be displayed, and an input operation may be accepted. The order contents are confirmed by touching the “order confirmation” button 2801 (step S17).

  When the order details are confirmed, both the image data to be printed and the album setting information are transmitted to the image processing apparatus 4 as order information. As described above, the image processing apparatus 4 creates album image data from the image data and album setting information. When an album print instruction is received in accordance with the order of the order, album print image data is created based on the album image data. The created album print image data is transmitted to the ink jet printer 3, and the ink jet printer 3 executes the double side or single side print processing of the cover of the album, the middle page. As another embodiment, the print order receiving apparatus 1 can be configured to create album image data from album print target image data and album setting information and transmit the album image data to the image processing apparatus 4. In addition, the printer can be configured to print on the printer based on the album image data without creating album printer image data from the album image data.

(Embodiment 2)
The above-described functional elements of the print order receiving apparatus 1 of the present invention can be included in the image processing apparatus 4. In this case, the operator of the photo shop can operate on behalf of the customer.

(Embodiment 3)
The functional elements of the print order receiving apparatus 1 of the present invention can be realized by the cooperative action of software and hardware (CPU (concept including MPU), memory, etc.), and can be realized by a dedicated circuit or firmware, or a combination thereof. It can also be realized.

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

An album print order reception program used for a customer's album print order operation,
An image selection accepting step for accepting selection of images to be printed on the album;
A page total number selection reception step for receiving an input of the total number of pages;
For causing a computer to execute an image received in the image selection receiving step and a layout setting step for setting an image layout in each page based on the page total received in the page total number selection receiving step This is an album print order reception program.

In the above program,
A total page type creation step for creating the total number of pages of the album print;
A cost creation step of creating a cost for creating an album print according to the type of the total number of created pages;
Causing the computer to further execute a type of the total number of pages created and a step of displaying a creation cost corresponding to the type of the total number of pages on a display unit;
In the page total number selection receiving step, the selection of any one of the total pages is received based on the type of the total number of generated pages displayed on the display unit and the creation cost according to the type of the total number of pages. Further, it is characterized by causing a computer to execute.

In the above program, after the processing by the image selection receiving step, the computer further executes an album size selection receiving step for receiving an album size selection,
In the layout setting step, the maximum number of images posted on one page set in advance according to the album size received in the album size selection reception step and the total number of pages received in the page total number selection reception step On the basis of this, the computer is caused to execute so as to set an image layout in each page.

In the above program, in the page total number type creating step, based on the images accepted in the image selection accepting step, the computer may create a total number of pages that can be album printed that is equal to or larger than the total number of the images. To run
The type of the total number of pages that can be printed on the album displayed on the display means includes at least a type that is equal to or greater than the minimum number of pages that can be created as an album and a type that is equal to or greater than the total number of the images created in the total number of pages type creation step. It is characterized by that.

  The above-described program is stored in the image processing apparatus 4 or server apparatus (not shown) and connected to the orderer PC (including a portable computer, general-purpose personal computer, workstation, etc.) connected via a network (including Internet connection). It is configured to be downloadable upon request. The downloaded program is configured to be installed and executable on the orderer PC. In this case, the orderer can easily order an album print from a personal computer at home.

(Another embodiment)
The ink jet method of the ink jet printer 3 is not limited to a method using a serial scan type print head, and may be an ink jet method using a line scan type print head.

Diagram for explaining an example of a photo processing system The figure for demonstrating the function structure of a print reception ordering apparatus The figure for demonstrating the main structures of an inkjet printer Flow chart of album print ordering operation of print acceptance ordering apparatus The figure which shows an example of the language data of the operation screen Diagram showing an example of album template data Diagram showing an example of album size data Diagram showing an example of album layout data Figure showing an example of template design for album Diagram for explaining an example of the order operation screen Diagram for explaining an example of the order operation screen Diagram for explaining an example of the order operation screen Diagram for explaining an example of the order operation screen Diagram for explaining an example of the order operation screen Diagram for explaining an example of the order operation screen Diagram for explaining an example of the order operation screen Diagram for explaining an example of the order operation screen Diagram for explaining an example of the order operation screen Diagram for explaining an example of the order operation screen Diagram for explaining an example of the order operation screen Diagram for explaining an example of the order operation screen Diagram for explaining an example of the order operation screen Diagram for explaining an example of the order operation screen Diagram for explaining an example of the order operation screen Diagram for explaining an example of the order operation screen Diagram for explaining an example of the order operation screen Diagram for explaining an example of the order operation screen

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Print order reception apparatus 21 Display control part 23 Album size selection reception part 24 Template design selection process part 26 Top and bottom adjustment process part 27 Album display process part 28 Image processing part 29 Copy number setting part 281 Cover cover edit part 101 Image selection reception part 102 page Total number type creation unit 103 Cost creation unit 104 Total page number selection reception unit 105 Layout setting unit

Claims (8)

An album print order receiving device used for a customer's album print order operation,
Image selection accepting means for accepting selection of images to be printed on the album;
A page total number selection receiving means for receiving an input of the total number of pages;
An album print order receiving apparatus comprising: an image received by the image selection receiving means; and a layout setting means for setting an image layout in each page based on the total number of pages received by the page total number selection receiving means. . A total page number type creation means for creating a total page type of album print;
Cost creation means for creating an album print creation cost according to the type of the total number of pages created;
The page total number selection accepting unit can accept selection of any one of the page totals based on the type of the total number of created pages displayed on the display unit and the creation cost according to the type of the total number of pages. The album print order receiving apparatus according to claim 1, configured as described above. After the processing by the image selection receiving means, further comprising an album size selection receiving means for receiving an album size selection,
The layout setting means sets the maximum number of images posted on one page set in advance according to the album size received by the album size selection receiving means, and the total number of pages received by the page total number selection receiving means. The album print order receiving apparatus according to claim 1, wherein an image layout in each page is set based on the album print order receiving apparatus. Based on the images received by the image selection accepting means, the page total number type creating means creates a total number of types of pages that can be album printed that is equal to or greater than the total number of the images,
The type of the total number of pages that can be printed on the album displayed on the display unit includes at least a type that is greater than or equal to the minimum number of pages that can be created by the album and a type that is greater than or equal to the total number of the images created by the total number of page types creation unit. 4. The album print order receiving apparatus according to claim 1, wherein An album print order reception program used for a customer's album print order operation,
An image selection accepting step for accepting selection of images to be printed on the album;
A page total number selection reception step for receiving an input of the total number of pages;
For causing a computer to execute an image received in the image selection receiving step and a layout setting step for setting an image layout in each page based on the page total received in the page total number selection receiving step Album print order acceptance program. A total page type creation step for creating the total number of pages of the album print;
A cost creation step of creating a cost for creating an album print according to the type of the total number of created pages;
Causing the computer to further execute a type of the total number of pages created and a step of displaying a creation cost corresponding to the type of the total number of pages on a display unit;
In the page total number selection receiving step, the selection of any one of the total pages is received based on the type of the total number of generated pages displayed on the display unit and the creation cost according to the type of the total number of pages. 6. An album print order receiving program according to claim 5, wherein the program is executed by a computer. After the processing by the image selection receiving step, the computer further executes an album size selection receiving step for receiving an album size selection,
In the layout setting step, the maximum number of images posted on one page set in advance according to the album size received in the album size selection reception step and the total number of pages received in the page total number selection reception step 7. The album print order receiving program according to claim 5, wherein the program is executed by a computer so as to set an image layout in each page. In the page total number type creation step, based on the image received in the image selection reception step, the computer is executed to create a type of the total number of pages that can be album printed that is equal to or greater than the total number of the image,
The type of the total number of pages that can be printed on the album displayed on the display means includes at least a type that is equal to or greater than the minimum number of pages that can be created as an album and a type that is equal to or greater than the total number of the images created in the total number of pages type creation step. The album print order receiving program according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that

Images