JP2010134777A - Collage photo print order device, image processing apparatus, collage image creation program, and collage photo print order system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a collage photo print order device designed to facilitate the operability for ordering collage photos, while reducing ordering time and increasing the operation rate of the ordering device, and allowing selection of desired collage images from collage images having a plurality of layout patterns. <P>SOLUTION: The collage photo print order device automatically creates a collage image out of an image to be printed as a collage photo, and receives an order for printing the collage image. The device includes a collage image creation unit 28 for creating collage images having a plurality of layout patterns, a collage image display process unit 281 which controls a display means to display the collage images of the plurality of layout patterns, and a layout pattern selecting unit 282 which receives an instruction to select the collage image of a certain layout pattern from the displayed collage images of the plurality of layout patterns. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a collage photo print ordering apparatus and a collage photo print ordering program used for a collage photo ordering operation by a customer. The present invention also relates to an image processing apparatus for creating a collage image and a program thereof that can be suitably used for them.

  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 the receiving device of Patent Document 1 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 This is a flow for selecting a correction process and determining an order. You can also select a photo print finish type, such as a type that forms one photo for each frame image, or an index print that arranges multiple frame images with regularity on one photo. There is also a type called album print that is printed for final album editing.

  In recent years, collage photography has begun to spread. This collage photo is composed of a plurality of frame images in one photo, but it is freely laid out with design, artistic and entertainment, and distinguishes it from the above index print. Has been. As an editing software for this collage photo, there is an automatic photo collage software “Auto Collage 2008 made by Microsoft Corporation”. First, save the photo image data you want to collage in a folder, and after starting this software, the user arbitrarily selects an image from that folder, then reads the selected image according to the collage creation instruction, and automatically This is a configuration for creating collage photos. This software allows users to edit collage photos using a personal computer at home and print them on a home printer.

In addition, a plurality of reduced images obtained by reducing a plurality of images are randomly arranged adjacent to each other to generate a layout image, and this layout image is displayed and included in the layout image according to a layout change instruction. There is known a technical configuration for changing the arrangement of reduced images (Patent Document 2). According to this, when the image data is read into the order terminal in the store, the orderer selects a plurality of images, the selected images can be reduced and arranged randomly, and if this random arrangement is not liked It is the structure which rearranges at random again.
JP 2006-103100 A JP 2007-28137 A (Claim 1, paragraph 0043)

  However, there is a demand to shorten the order operation at the store in Patent Documents 1 and 2 as much as possible. For example, in the case of Patent Document 2, since the orderer repeatedly performs random arrangement, there is a problem that the occupied operation time of the reception terminal becomes long and the use rotation rate deteriorates.

  In particular, after selecting a collage target image, manually allocating the selected image to each of the collage image layout allocation areas takes time, increasing the time taken to occupy the receiving terminal. It is. On the other hand, as in the above-mentioned automatic photo collage software and Patent Document 2, it is possible to automatically set the collage image layout, but there are cases where the layout is not as desired by the orderer. is there. And in the case of patent document 2, if it does not like a collage image, it is the structure which rearranges at random again. This requires a rearrangement operation, and since it is not possible to confirm the difference from the previous allocation arrangement, the user only has to perform complicated operations, and the user can select the collage image that the user really wants to assign. It was not the composition to do.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and its purpose is to facilitate the operability of collage photo ordering, shorten the order operation time, improve the order device rotation rate, and An object of the present invention is to provide a collage photo print ordering apparatus and a collage photo print ordering program configured such that a desired collage image can be selected from collage images of assigned patterns. Another object of the present invention is to provide an image processing apparatus for creating a collage image and a program thereof that can be suitably used for these apparatuses.

In order to solve the above-described problem, a collage photo print ordering apparatus according to the present invention includes:
A collage photo print ordering apparatus that automatically creates a collage image from an image to be collage photo print and accepts a photo print order for the collage image,
A collage image creation unit for creating a collage image of a plurality of assignment patterns;
A collage image display processing unit for controlling display of the collage images of the plurality of allocation patterns on a display unit;
An allocation pattern selection unit that receives an instruction to select a collage image of an arbitrary allocation pattern from the displayed collage images of a plurality of allocation patterns.

  The effects of this configuration are as follows. The collage photo print ordering apparatus has a function of automatically creating a collage image from an image to be collage photo printed and receiving a photo print order of the collage image. And the collage image creation part can create the collage image of a some allocation pattern. There are no particular restrictions on the multiple assignment patterns, but for example, a random assignment method, a method of assignment in order of shooting date, a method of assigning large areas in proportion to the face size, a method of assigning out-of-focus images to small areas, etc. Can be assigned. The created collage images of a plurality of allocation patterns are displayed on the display means (function of the collage image display processing unit). An instruction to select a collage image having an arbitrary assignment pattern can be received from the displayed collage images having a plurality of assignment patterns (function of the assignment pattern selection unit). As described above, the operability of collage photo ordering can be facilitated, the order operation time can be shortened and the order device rotation rate can be improved, and a desired collage image can be selected from collage images of a plurality of assigned patterns.

  The image is acquired by the image data acquisition unit. For example, if the image data is stored in the orderer's storage medium or the like, the image data acquisition unit is configured by a storage medium reader. In addition, an automatic selection unit that automatically selects an image to be printed as a collage photo is provided. The automatic selection unit automatically selects an image to be printed as a collage photo from the image data acquired by the image data acquisition unit. Details of the automatic selection method will be described later.

  Moreover, the orderer may also have a function of arbitrarily selecting an image to be printed as a collage photo. This function is realized by the image selection unit, and the image selection unit receives the selection of an image to be printed on the collage photo from the image data acquired by the image data acquisition unit and displayed on the display unit according to the instruction of the orderer. it can.

  Further, the layout setting unit can set the layout of the collage image used for creating the collage image. The layout setting unit sets the layout of the collage photo based on the image selected by the automatic selection unit (or the image selected by the image selection unit). For example, the layout is automatically set according to the number of images. The collage image creating unit assigns the image selected above to the layout set by the layout setting unit. At this time, as described above, a collage image of a plurality of allocation patterns is created. In addition to collage photo print ordering operations, the collage photo print ordering device can also perform other ordering operations, such as accepting orders such as normal photo prints such as L version, index prints, writing to CDs, etc. it can.

In the present invention described above,
The collage image creation unit
A priority order setting unit for setting a priority order for assigning images;
In accordance with the priority order, an assignment setting unit that fits the image into an assignment area of a collage image;
A determination unit that determines whether or not an image according to the vertical and horizontal size of the allocation area is inserted;
When the determination result of the determination unit is a result that an image corresponding to the vertical and horizontal size is not inserted, there is a configuration including a reassignment setting unit that inserts an image corresponding to the vertical and horizontal size.

  According to this configuration, a priority order for allocating images is set (function of the priority order setting unit), and the images are fitted into the collage image allocation area according to the priority order (function of the allocation setting unit). Then, it is determined whether or not an image corresponding to the vertical and horizontal size of the allocation area is inserted (function of the determination unit), and this determination result is a result that the image corresponding to the vertical and horizontal size is not inserted Are configured to fit an image according to the vertical and horizontal sizes (function of the reallocation setting unit). Examples of the priority order include the order of shooting dates and the order proportional to the face size. Therefore, the priority order of image allocation can be set, and the vertical and horizontal sizes of the layout allocation area and the vertical direction of the image can be matched, so that a collage image having an allocation pattern desired by the user can be automatically created.

In the present invention described above,
There is a configuration further including an arrangement replacement unit that replaces the arrangement of the images after being fitted by the allocation setting unit.

  According to this configuration, it is possible to change the arrangement of the images after the fitting by the assignment setting unit (function of the arrangement replacement unit). That is, after the image is fitted in the allocation area, the arrangement of the image can be shuffled and allocated again, and an allocation pattern with a different arrangement can be easily created automatically. Moreover, it can comprise so that the function of this arrangement | positioning replacement part may be performed twice or more continuously. In this arrangement replacement process, all images may be targeted, or images of specific conditions may be replaced. For example, a process of preferentially allocating an image having a large face size in the main allocation area can be mentioned.

Another invention is an image processing apparatus having a collage image creation unit for creating a collage image of a plurality of allocation patterns,
The collage image creation unit
A priority order setting unit for setting a priority order for assigning images;
In accordance with the priority order, an assignment setting unit that fits the image into an assignment area of a collage image;
A determination unit that determines whether or not an image according to the vertical and horizontal size of the allocation area is inserted;
When the determination result of the determination unit is a result that an image corresponding to the vertical / horizontal size is not inserted, the reallocation setting unit is configured to insert an image corresponding to the vertical / horizontal size.

  Further, in the present invention described above, there is a configuration further including an arrangement replacement unit that replaces an image arrangement after being fitted by the allocation setting unit.

  By incorporating the above-described image processing apparatus into a storefront receiving apparatus (receiving apparatus other than the present invention) or externally connected, the effects of the collage photo print ordering apparatus can be exhibited.

Another collage image creation program of the present invention is:
On the computer,
A priority order setting step for setting a priority order for assigning images;
An assignment setting step for fitting the image into an assignment area of the collage image according to the priority order;
A determination step of determining whether or not an image according to the vertical and horizontal sizes of the allocation area is inserted;
When the determination result of the determination step is a result that an image corresponding to the vertical / horizontal size is not inserted, a reassignment setting step of inserting an image corresponding to the vertical / horizontal size is executed.

  In addition, in the above-described program, there is a configuration in which the computer further executes an arrangement replacement step for replacing the image arrangement after the fitting in the assignment setting step.

  The operational effects of the above program configuration are the same as those of the above-described image processing apparatus.

Another collage photo print ordering program of the present invention is
On the computer,
A collage photo print ordering program that automatically creates a collage image from images to be collage photo printed and accepts a photo print order for the collage image,
A collage image creation step for creating a collage image of a plurality of assignment patterns;
A collage image display processing step of controlling display of the collage images of the plurality of allocation patterns on a display means;
An assignment pattern selection step of receiving an instruction to select a collage image of an arbitrary assignment pattern from the displayed collage images of a plurality of assignment patterns.

  The operational effects of the above program configuration are the same as the operational effects of the collage photo print ordering 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.

  A preferred embodiment of a collage photo print ordering 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 and number of printers installed are not limited to those shown in FIG. Further, the number of installed image processing apparatuses 5 and print order receiving apparatuses (corresponding to collage photo print ordering apparatuses) 1 is not limited to that shown in FIG. Each device constituting the photographic 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.

  The ink jet printer includes a communication unit for various data communication. This communication unit receives image data for printing from the image processing device 5 and stores it in a memory. The ink jet printer has a RIP processing unit, 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. Then, the printing unit performs printing processing based on gray scale data for each CMYK. The printing unit includes CMYK print heads. The print head performs one scan in the main scanning direction with respect to the intermittently conveyed paper, and ink is ejected from the ink ejection nozzles of each color and adheres to the surface of the paper during this scanning. By repeating this intermittent conveyance, main scanning operation, and ink ejection operation, an image is formed in the print area of the paper. 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.

  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 5 to the medium writing device, the image data can be written on a recording medium such as a CD-R.

(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 other printers (or writing to media), the image processing apparatus 5 or directly via the network. Transfer the image data to be printed to the printer. The image processing device 5 will be described later.

  The print order receiving apparatus 1 includes a media drive unit 10 (which is an example of an image data acquisition unit), 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 an ink jet printer, image data and data related to an 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 (corresponding to display means) 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 display control unit 21 also provides a confirmation display (preview display) screen (see the collage image 1801 in FIG. 18) for confirming the collage image.

  The data reading condition part 22 is a data reading condition for reading the thumbnail image data in the Exif information or the main image data when the media driving part 10 of the print order receiving apparatus 1 reads the image data from the storage medium. Set. The main image data is image data as it is not subjected to low resolution processing. According to the data reading condition, the data reading processing unit 221 reads the thumbnail image data of the Exif information at the time of the first reading (this is used for the order operation), and the main image data is obtained in the background execution during the order operation. Read (Preview display (collage image 1801 in FIG. 18) for confirming the order contents using this main image data is performed).

  The print size selection unit 23 is a function that receives and sets an instruction to select a collage photo size from the orderer. The print size is stored in advance in the memory as in the data configuration of FIG.

  The background color selection unit 24 receives an instruction to select the background color of the layout from the orderer, and sets the background color. The background color data is stored in the memory in advance as in the configuration of Y (yellow) M (magenta) C (cyan) in FIG.

  The image selection unit 25 accepts selection of an image to be printed as a collage photo from the image data displayed on the monitor 12 read by the media driving unit 10 (corresponding to an image data acquisition unit) according to an order from the orderer. Of the plurality of frame images displayed on the monitor 12, a frame image to be printed as a collage photo can be individually selected or all frames can be selected. Further, the image selection unit 25 may have a function of adjusting the top / bottom direction of the frame image at the time of image selection. 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. In addition, a function for acquiring Exif information for each frame image, determining the vertical direction from the data included in the Exif information, and displaying the frame image with the vertical direction adjusted automatically when displayed on the monitor 12 is provided. You may have.

  The automatic selection unit 26 automatically selects a collage photo print target image from the image data read by the media driving unit 10 (for example, thumbnail image data in Exif information).

  This automatic selection method is not particularly limited, but for example, a method of randomly selecting a predetermined number of frame images, a method of randomly selecting frame images of different shooting dates, or each folder if the image data is divided into folders The method of selecting at random is mentioned. In addition, when selecting from a plurality of image data, there is a method of selecting a frame image in which a plurality of faces are detected or a frame image in which a face size greater than a predetermined size is detected using a face detection program. There is also a selection method in which a frame image with poor exposure is not selected. Further, a frame image group is divided into units of a predetermined shooting period range (for example, 1 minute, 1 hour, 1 day, 10 days, 1 month, etc.), and one of the above selection methods is used from the frame image group. There is also a method for selecting a frame image. In addition, there is a method in which a frame image edited by image editing software is always selected or not selected. A combination of the above selection methods can also be used.

  The number of images selected by the automatic selection is not particularly limited, but it is necessary to secure the number of images necessary for composing a collage photo. If the number of images selected by automatic selection (for example, 18) is smaller than the number of collage photo allocation areas (for example, 20), the shortage (for example, 2) can be further automatically selected. Well, it can be configured to use an already selected image in duplicate. On the other hand, when the number of images selected by automatic selection (for example, 30 images) is larger than the number of collage photo allocation regions (for example, 25 images), an excess amount (for example, 5 images) from the selected frame image group. Sheet). Further, a minimum value and a maximum value of the number of images to be automatically selected can be set, and the automatic selection process can be executed so as to be within this range. The number of collage photo allocation areas (the number of images constituting the collage photo) is included in the layout data described later.

  The layout setting unit 27 sets the collage photo layout based on the number of images selected by the automatic selection unit 26 (or the number of images selected by the image selection unit 25). As shown in FIG. 6, a plurality of layout data is stored in advance in a memory (not shown). One or a plurality of layout templates are stored for the number of layout allocation areas. If the number of images selected automatically or manually differs from the number of layout allocation areas (sometimes referred to as the number of collage photos), the layout with the number of allocation areas closest to the number of selected images is selected, The excess and deficiency can be configured to be thinned out, added automatically selected or duplicated by the method described above. Alternatively, it can be configured to be manually deleted, added manually selected or duplicated.

  The collage image creating unit 28 assigns the selected image to the layout set by the layout setting unit, and creates a collage image. The collage image creating unit 28 can create a collage image of a plurality of image assignment patterns using one layout. The image allocation method is not particularly limited, but for example, a random allocation method, a method of allocation in order of shooting date, a method of allocation to a large area in proportion to the face size, a method of allocating a blurred image to a small area, etc. A combined method is mentioned.

  A preferred example of creating a plurality of allocation patterns is shown below. The allocation type 1 will be described with reference to FIG. An example of creating allocation type 1 will be described using the image of “image data to be used” in FIG. The rotation angle is obtained from information in Exif information. The point is a point according to the selection condition (selection method) used in the image selection. For example, the point is increased when a face is included in the image, or the point is increased in proportion to the face size. Set. This image data is also used for the allocation types 2 to 4 described below.

  The priority order setting unit 28a sets a priority order for assigning images. First, as the first priority order setting, sorting is performed in descending order of shooting date (S51). Next, as the second priority order setting, sorting is performed in the point order (descending order) (S52). Next, the assignment setting unit 28b fits the image into the assignment area of the collage image according to the priority order. That is, an image is assigned to each layout area (S53). The number of allocation areas (8) and the number of images (6) are different, but here, the allocation areas are configured so as to overlap in order of priority. The assigned image is shown on the right side. Circled numbers “1 to 8” (hereinafter, circled numbers are indicated by “”) indicate the number of the allocation area. In the rectangular area, an image is inserted, and the image number is shown in the rectangular area. “◎” below the image number means a rotation angle of 90, that is, a vertically long image (hereinafter referred to as a vertical image). In an image allocated in this way, a vertical image may not be arranged in a vertically allocated area (hereinafter referred to as a vertical area). In the following processing, the vertical image is reinserted so that the vertical image is inserted into the vertical area. Assigned.

  The determination unit 28c determines whether an image corresponding to the vertical and horizontal sizes of the allocation area is inserted. Then, when the determination result of the determination unit 28c is that the image corresponding to the vertical / horizontal size is not inserted, the reallocation setting unit 28d inserts the image corresponding to the vertical / horizontal size (S54). This will be described in more detail with reference to FIG.

  First, i = 1 is initialized (S61). i means an allocated area from “1” to “8”. Next, it is determined whether the allocation area (i) is a vertical area (S62). Whether or not it is a vertical area can be calculated from the diagonal coordinates of the rectangular area, and identification information that is a vertical area is set in advance as layout data, and this may be determined. Taking FIG. 25 as an example, since the allocation area “1” is not a vertical area, the process returns to S61, i is incremented, and it is determined in S62 whether the allocation area “2” is a vertical area. Since the allocation area “2” is not a vertical area, the process returns to S61, i is incremented, and it is determined in S62 whether the allocation area “3” is a vertical area. Since the allocation area “3” is a vertical area, it is determined whether or not the image embedded in the allocation area “3” is a vertical image (S63). As a result of the determination, since the image is not a vertical image, the process proceeds to S64. Here, the allocated area (j) initialized to j = 1 and in which the vertical image is inserted is searched (determined) (S65). Here, in order from the allocation area “1”, it is determined whether or not the image embedded therein is a vertical image. Since the image in the allocation area “1” is not a vertical image, the process returns to S64, and j is incremented to determine the allocation area “2”. If it is determined that the image in the allocation area “2” is a vertical image, the vertical image and the image in the allocation area “3” are switched (S66).

  Next, the process returns to step S61, i is incremented, and the same procedure is repeated for the assigned image “4”. It is determined that the allocation area “4” is not a vertical area, and the next allocation area “5” is processed. It is determined that the allocation area “5” is a vertical area (S62). Since the image inserted here is not a vertical image, the process proceeds to S64 and S65, and a vertical image is searched. Since the search is performed in order from the allocation area “1”, the vertical image inserted in the allocation area “3” is searched first, but is ignored because it has been replaced before. Next, the searched vertical image of the allocation area “6” and the image of the allocation area “5” are switched (S66).

  Next, it is determined that the allocation areas “6” and “7” are not vertical areas, and the next allocation area “8” is processed. The allocated area “8” is determined to be a vertical area (S62). Then, it is determined that the image inserted here is a vertical image (S63), and the replacement process is not performed. As described above, determination and re-allocation processing are executed in all allocation areas “1” to “8”, and an allocation type 1 collage image is created.

  As another example, when it is determined that the image of the allocation area “8” is not a vertical image, the allocation area (j) of the vertical image is sequentially searched in S64 and S65, but the allocation area “3”, Since “5” has already been replaced, if it is ignored and no other search is made, the image is left as it is without performing the replacement process.

  Further, when the allocation area “1” is set as the main area and the allocation area “1” is the vertical area, it is preferable that the vertical image with the highest point is allocated. This makes it possible to create a collage photo desired by the orderer.

  Next, the allocation type 2 will be described with reference to FIG. The feature here is that the arrangement of the images is changed after being fitted by the assignment setting unit 28b (function of the arrangement changing unit 28e). Further, a process of executing shuffle once in the allocated image array and arranging an image of the second highest point in the allocated area “1” is provided. A process similar to the allocation type 1 will be briefly described. Steps S51 and S52 are the same as described above. In step S71, the allocated image array is shuffled by the number of images. As a shuffle method, for example, there is a random number generation processing method using the number of images (6) as an argument. In the shuffle process, the condition can be set so that the change in the arrangement order is a predetermined ratio or more. Next, an image is allocated to each allocation area (S72). The assigned image array is inserted in order from the top. The number of allocated areas (8) and the number of images (6) are different and are configured so as to be redundantly allocated in order from the top. An example of the allocated image is shown on the right side of FIG. Next, as the first arrangement replacement process, the arrangement of images is shuffled by the number of allocated areas (S73). As a shuffle method, for example, there is a random number generation processing method using the number of allocated areas (8) as an argument. Next, as the second arrangement replacement process, the image of the allocation area “1” (main area) and the image of the second highest point (image number 5, image of the allocation area “3”) are switched. Next, the process proceeds to step S54. Step S54 is the same process as described above. In this process, although not shown, the image of the allocation area “3” and the image of the allocation area “1” are switched.

  In the above description, the image of the allocation area “1” and the image of the second highest point (image number 5, image of the allocation area “3”) are configured to be replaced. The image of the area and the image in an arbitrary point order may be exchanged, and this exchange condition can be arbitrarily set.

  Next, the allocation type 3 will be described with reference to FIG. The feature here is that the shuffle is executed twice in the allocated image array, and a process for arranging the image of the third highest point in the allocated area “1” is provided. A process similar to the allocation type 1 will be briefly described. Steps S51 and S52 are the same as described above. In step S81, the assigned image array is first shuffled with the number of images. In step S82, the allocated image array is shuffled by the number of images. As a shuffle method, for example, there is a random number generation processing method using the number of images (6) as an argument. In the shuffle process, the condition can be set so that the change in the arrangement order is a predetermined ratio or more. Next, an image is allocated to each allocation area (S83). The assigned image array is inserted in order from the top. The number of allocated areas (8) and the number of images (6) are different and are configured so as to be redundantly allocated in order from the top. An example of the allocated image is shown on the right side of FIG. Next, as the first arrangement replacement process, the arrangement of images is shuffled by the number of allocated areas (S84). As a shuffle method, for example, there is a random number generation processing method using the number of allocated areas (8) as an argument. Next, as the second arrangement replacement process, the image of the allocation area “1” (main area) and the image of the third highest point (image number 3, image of the allocation area “3”) are switched. Next, the process proceeds to step S54. Step S54 is the same process as described above. In this process, although not shown, the image of the allocation area “2” and the image of the allocation area “3” are interchanged, and the image of the allocation area “4” and the image of the allocation area “8” are interchanged.

  In the above description, the image of the allocation area “1” and the image of the third highest point (image number 3, the image of the allocation area “3”) are configured to be exchanged. You may comprise so that the image of arbitrary allocation areas and the image of arbitrary point orders may be replaced.

  Next, the allocation type 4 will be described with reference to FIG. The feature here is to assign randomly. Processing similar to the allocation types 1 to 3 will be briefly described. First, in step S91, the allocated image array is shuffled with the number of images. As a shuffle method, for example, there is a random number generation processing method using the number of images (6) as an argument. In the shuffle process, the condition can be set so that the change in the arrangement order is a predetermined ratio or more. Next, an image is allocated to each allocation area (S92). The assigned image array is inserted in order from the top. The number of allocated areas (8) and the number of images (6) are different and are configured so as to be redundantly allocated in order from the top. An example of the allocated image is shown on the right side of FIG. Next, as an arrangement replacement process, the arrangement of images is shuffled by the number of allocated areas (S93). As a shuffle method, for example, there is a random number generation processing method using the number of allocated areas (8) as an argument. Next, the process proceeds to step S54. Step S54 is the same process as described above. The image of the allocation area “1” and the image of the allocation area “3” are switched, the image of the allocation area “5” and the image of the allocation area “6” are switched, and the image of the allocation area “7” and the image of the allocation area “8” are switched. Images are switched.

  Through the above processing procedure, collage images of a plurality of assignment patterns of assignment types 1 to 4 that are unlikely to have similar arrangements can be created. Needless to say, the allocation type is not limited to the above four types.

  The collage image display processing unit 281 has a function of displaying the created collage image (a collage image of a plurality of assigned patterns) on the monitor 12. The allocation pattern selection unit 282 is a function of receiving an instruction for selecting an arbitrary allocation pattern from the orderer from a plurality of allocation patterns displayed on the monitor 12. The collage image creation unit 28 creates a collage image based on the thumbnail image data of the Exif information, and in the processing after the allocation pattern is selected, the collage based on the main image data is based on the set layout and allocation pattern. Create an image. A known method can be used as an image composition method used for the collage image creation process. After the collage image is created, the layout is prohibited from being changed. As will be described later, it is possible to delete, replace, and correct an image on the same layout.

  Further, although the collage image creating unit 28 has been described with respect to the function of creating a plurality of layout patterns in one layout, it can be configured to create a collage image of one or more layout patterns in a plurality of layouts. In such a case, a collage image of one or more allocation patterns of a plurality of layouts is displayed on the display means, and can be configured to accept selection of an arbitrary allocation pattern from the orderer.

  The number setting unit 29 is a function for setting the number of collage photo prints. One sheet is preset as an initial value, and the number of sheets can be increased or decreased by an order from the orderer.

  The editing unit 30 has a function of executing image deletion, replacement, image correction, and the like while confirming a collage image composed of the main images displayed on the monitor 12. A known method can be used as an image composition method used for processing various functions of the editing unit 30.

  The image deletion unit 301 has a function of receiving an instruction to delete an arbitrary image from the images constituting the collage image displayed on the monitor 12 and deleting the image from the collage image. An example of the processing procedure will be described later.

  The collage image editing unit 302 sets the image position deleted by the image deletion unit 301 to the background color set by the background color selection unit 24.

  The replacement editing unit 303 receives the selection of the first image to be replaced from the images constituting the collage image displayed on the monitor 12, and the book read by the media driving unit 10 displayed on the monitor 12. This is a function of accepting selection of the second image to be included in the collage image instead of the first image to be replaced from the image data, and switching the first image and the second image. An example of the processing procedure will be described later.

  The image correction process 304 is a function that executes color / density correction, red-eye correction, backlight correction, and the like. This process may be automatically executed for all the frame images of the collage image, or may be configured to select and execute individual frame images constituting the collage image.

  The trimming process 305 is a function for trimming an arbitrary area of the collage image.

  The character input process 306 is a function for designating a character area at an arbitrary position of the collage image and inputting an arbitrary character. The character key is displayed on the monitor 12 as a character keypad.

  The graffiti process 307 is a function that can freely draw a collage image with a touch pen (not shown).

  The enlargement / reduction processing 308 is a function for designating an arbitrary frame image in the collage image and enlarging or reducing the frame image.

  The rotation process 309 is a function for designating an arbitrary frame image in the collage image and rotating the frame image.

  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 device 5 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 5 will be described, but the present invention is not limited to this.

  The image processing apparatus 5 includes order information storage means (not shown) and has a function of storing order information. Further, the image processing apparatus 5 includes order management means for managing and controlling image data and order information relating 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. Further, the image processing apparatus 5 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. This pre-judge process is not necessarily performed, and the print process can be performed without the pre-judge process. The collage image data (or its constituent image data) may or may not be judged.

  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. 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 order information received from the print order receiving apparatus 1 may include a collage image composed of the created main image data. The image data to be used for collage photo printing necessary for creating the collage image, Layout data, layout pattern data, and the like may be included. In such a case, the image processing apparatus 5 has a collage image creation unit and creates a collage image. Then, the print image data creation means creates the print image data of the collage image based on the collage image and transmits it to the printer side by the communication means.

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

(Flow of collage photo print order in print order reception device)
Next, a collage photo print ordering procedure will be described using the flowchart of FIG. 3 and the order operation screens of FIGS.

  The language of the operation screen can be selected on the order operation screen of 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.

  On the order menu selection screen of FIG. 9, a “collage photo” button 901 is touched to select a collage photo print order (step S1). This is confirmed by touching an “OK” button 902 in the lower right of the screen. A “return” button 903 is an instruction button for returning to the previous screen, and an “x” button 904 at the lower left of the screen is a process stop instruction button. These button operation processes are the same on other screens.

  On the next screen of FIG. 10, the customer's media A is inserted into the media drive 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. 11, it is possible to select 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. . For example, when “classify by folder” is touched, the screen shown in FIG. 12 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.

  When image data is read, thumbnail image data in Exif information is read instead of the image data itself (main image data). 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 each process of display and order operation.

  Next, when the image data is successfully read, the screen shown in FIG. 13 is displayed. On this screen, the print size is selected (step S3). For example, touching the size “254 × 203” and touching the OK button confirms the selection. For example, if there is one preset print size, the selection of this print size can be omitted.

  Next, the background color of the collage photo in FIG. 14 is selected (step S4). A plurality of background colors 1402 and their background color names 1403 are displayed in a frame 1401, and the selected background color and its background color name are displayed in a frame 1404. Confirm with the “OK” button to move to the next screen.

  In the collage photo print target image selection method screen of FIG. 15, an image selection method is selected (step S5). When “Auto Select” 1501 is touched and confirmed by the “OK” button, the screen shifts to the screen in FIG. 16A. In the case of “automatic selection”, an image is automatically selected using the selection method described above. On the other hand, when “Select by yourself” is touched and confirmed by the “OK” button, the screen of FIG. 23 is displayed. On this screen, the orderer can select the image himself / herself, and can select the image by touching the “use” button or the “do not use” button. In addition, an image can be rotated and displayed by touching a “rotate” button. In addition, the file name and resolution (or image size) of the image can be displayed for each image. In addition, a “use all images” button and a “do not use all images” button can be provided at the bottom of the screen to select them in units of screen pages. In addition, the images displayed on the screen can be rearranged and displayed in ascending or descending order on the shooting date. Also, the number of frames displayed on the screen can be switched. Touch the “OK” button to confirm the image selection. In addition, when the number of images constituting the layout has not been reached, touching the “OK” button displays a message “Please select additional images” on the screen, and can be further selected. .

  While the screen of FIG. 16A is being displayed, the print order receiving apparatus 1 automatically sets a layout based on the number of selected images (function of the layout setting unit 27) (step S7). Then, a collage image is created from the selected image with a plurality of assignment patterns in this automatically set layout (function of the collage image creation unit 28) (step S8). As described above, when collage images with a plurality of assignment patterns are created, the screen moves to the next screen of FIG. 16B, and collage images with a plurality of assignment patterns are displayed on the screen (step S8). Collage images of a plurality of assignment patterns are created based on thumbnail images. In other words, thumbnail images are used to display collage images of a plurality of assignment patterns, thereby shortening the image processing time. In the screen of FIG. 16B, a collage image 1602 of a plurality of allocation patterns and its title name 1603 are displayed in a frame 1601. The title name may be the name of the layout, the folder name of the component image, or the shooting date period. When an arbitrary one of a plurality of allocation patterns is touched, the touched collage image 1605 and its title 1606 are displayed in a frame 1604. Note that the title can be changed by touching a “change title” button 1607. When selecting the collage image 1605 in the frame 1604, the user touches and confirms the “OK” button (step S9). As a result, the screen shown in FIG. 17 is displayed. In the background execution of this screen display, a collage image composed of main image data is created based on a collage image 1605 composed of thumbnail image data. Next, the screen of FIG. 18 is displayed.

  The screen in FIG. 18 is a screen for executing a collage image editing operation and an operation for setting the number of prints. A frame 1801 displays a collage image composed of the main image data. Since the collage image here is created with the main image data, there is no loss of detail as seen in the thumbnail image, which is preferable for image editing and confirmation preview.

  When editing an image, an “edit” button 1802 is touched to shift to the screen of FIG. 19A (steps S10 and S11). A collage image 1901 is displayed on the screen of FIG. 19A. An edit operation button is provided in the frame 1902. In the case of deleting an image, an arbitrary image 1903 is touched, and then an “delete image” button 1904 is touched. By this operation, the image 1903 is deleted from the collage image 1901, and the broken line 1903a becomes the background color of the collage image as shown in the screen of FIG. 19B.

  An operation for replacing the constituent images of the collage image will be described. In the screen of FIG. 20A, an image 2001 to be removed from the collage image is touched, and then an image 2003 to be included in the collage image is touched from the frame 2002. As a result, the images are switched as shown in the screen of FIG. 20B, and the image 2003 is newly synthesized in the collage image. The image data in the frame 2002 is all the read main image data.

  Other editing functions include movement, rotation, enlargement / reduction processing, etc., and are executed by touching each function button after touching the image to be edited. Also, the collage image title 2101 can be edited on the screen of FIG. By touching the “Edit Title” button, any character can be input to the main title and subtitle frames using the character key touch. Further, correction operations such as density correction, red-eye correction and backlight correction, trimming, character input, and editing operations such as graffiti are possible for each collage image or its constituent images. After completion of the above various edits, it is confirmed by the “OK” button and the screen returns to the screen of FIG.

  In the screen of FIG. 18, the number is increased or decreased by touching a “number +” or “number−” button 1803 (step S <b> 12). “One sheet” is set as an initial value. The printing fee at the bottom of the screen also fluctuates with the increase / decrease in the number of copies. The “OK” button is touched to shift to the screen of FIG. On the order confirmation screen of FIG. 22, the order fee is confirmed (step S13). An “OK” button 2201 is touched to confirm the order. Next, a storage medium take-out screen (not shown) is displayed, and the storage medium is taken out from the media drive unit 10 (step S14). Next, an order completion screen is displayed, and the order is completed (step S15).

  When the order is completed, order information including collage image data is transmitted to the image processing apparatus 5. As described above, the image processing apparatus 5 executes the photo print process based on the collage image data.

  In the above ordering operation, the collage image layout is configured to be automatically set based on the number of selected images. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the orderer selects the layout. May be. For example, after the print size is selected, the screen can be shifted to the screen shown in FIG. 24 and a layout design can be selected. For example, a plurality of layout designs are displayed in a frame 2401. When an arbitrary design 2402 and its name 2403 are touched, the design 2402 is displayed in a frame 2404 and can be determined by touching an “OK” button.

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

  The above collage image creation function is configured as a dedicated image processing apparatus and is linked to other order receiving apparatuses, so that the same operational effects as the print order receiving apparatus 1 of the above embodiment can be exhibited.

  When realized by software, the program is as follows. This program can be provided as a form recorded on a storage medium and stored in the storage 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.

Collage image creation program
On the computer,
A priority order setting step for setting a priority order for assigning images;
An assignment setting step for fitting the image into an assignment area of the collage image according to the priority order;
A determination step of determining whether or not an image according to the vertical and horizontal sizes of the allocation area is inserted;
When the determination result of the determination step is a result that an image corresponding to the vertical / horizontal size is not inserted, a reassignment setting step of inserting an image corresponding to the vertical / horizontal size is executed.

  In addition, in the above program, there is a configuration in which the computer further executes a placement replacement step for replacing the placement of the image after the fitting by the assignment setting step.

The collage photo print ordering program is
On the computer,
A collage photo print ordering program that automatically creates a collage image from images to be collage photo printed and accepts a photo print order for the collage image,
A collage image creation step for creating a collage image of a plurality of assignment patterns;
A collage image display processing step of controlling display of the collage images of the plurality of allocation patterns on a display means;
An assignment pattern selection step of receiving an instruction to select a collage image of an arbitrary assignment pattern from the displayed collage images of a plurality of assignment patterns.

  The above-described program is stored in the image processing apparatus 5 or a server apparatus (not shown), and is connected to an orderer PC (including a portable computer, a general-purpose personal computer, a workstation, etc.) connected via a network (including Internet connection). It can be 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 place a collage photo print order from a personal computer at home.

Diagram for explaining an example of a photo processing system The figure for demonstrating the function structure of a print reception ordering apparatus Collage photo print ordering flowchart The figure which shows an example of the language data of the operation screen Diagram showing an example of print size data The figure which shows an example of the layout data of a collage image Diagram showing an example of background color data 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 Diagram for explaining an example of the order operation screen Diagram for explaining an example of the order operation screen Diagram for explaining the allocation pattern creation procedure Diagram for explaining the allocation pattern creation procedure Diagram for explaining the allocation pattern creation procedure Diagram for explaining the allocation pattern creation procedure Diagram for explaining the allocation pattern creation procedure

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Print order reception apparatus 10 Media drive part 12 Monitor 13 Touch panel 21 Display control part 22 Data reading condition part 221 Data reading process part 23 Print size selection part 24 Background color selection part 25 Image selection part 26 Automatic selection part 27 Layout setting part 28 Collage image creation unit 281 Collage image display processing unit 282 Allocation pattern selection unit 29 Number setting unit 30 Editing unit 301 Image deletion unit 302 Collage image editing unit

Claims (8)

A collage photo print ordering apparatus that automatically creates a collage image from an image to be collage photo print and accepts a photo print order for the collage image,
A collage image creation unit for creating a collage image of a plurality of assignment patterns;
A collage image display processing unit for controlling display of the collage images of the plurality of allocation patterns on a display unit;
An allocation pattern selection unit that receives an instruction to select a collage image of an arbitrary allocation pattern from the displayed collage images of a plurality of allocation patterns;
Collage photo print ordering device. The collage image creation unit
A priority order setting unit for setting a priority order for assigning images;
In accordance with the priority order, an assignment setting unit that fits the image into an assignment area of a collage image;
A determination unit that determines whether or not an image according to the vertical and horizontal size of the allocation area is inserted;
2. The collage according to claim 1, further comprising: a reassignment setting unit that fits an image according to a vertical and horizontal size when the determination result of the determination unit is a result that an image according to the vertical and horizontal size is not fitted. Photo print ordering device.   The collage photo print ordering apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising an arrangement replacement unit that replaces an image arrangement after being fitted by the assignment setting unit. An image processing apparatus having a collage image creation unit for creating a collage image of a plurality of assignment patterns,
The collage image creation unit
A priority order setting unit for setting a priority order for assigning images;
In accordance with the priority order, an assignment setting unit that fits the image into an assignment area of a collage image;
A determination unit that determines whether or not an image according to the vertical and horizontal size of the allocation area is inserted;
When the determination result of the determination unit is a result that an image according to the vertical and horizontal size is not inserted, a reallocation setting unit that inserts an image according to the vertical and horizontal size;
An image processing apparatus.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising an arrangement replacement unit that replaces an image arrangement after being fitted by the assignment setting unit. On the computer,
A priority order setting step for setting a priority order for assigning images;
An assignment setting step for fitting the image into an assignment area of the collage image according to the priority order;
A determination step of determining whether or not an image according to the vertical and horizontal sizes of the allocation area is inserted;
When the determination result of the determination step is a result that an image corresponding to the vertical and horizontal size is not inserted, a reassignment setting step of inserting an image corresponding to the vertical and horizontal size, and a collage image creation program for executing .   The collage image creation program according to claim 6, further causing the computer to execute an arrangement replacement step of replacing the image arrangement after the fitting by the assignment setting step. On the computer,
A collage photo print ordering program that automatically creates a collage image from images to be collage photo printed and accepts a photo print order for the collage image,
A collage image creation step for creating a collage image of a plurality of assignment patterns;
A collage image display processing step of controlling display of the collage images of the plurality of allocation patterns on a display means;
An assignment pattern selection step of receiving an instruction to select a collage image of an arbitrary assignment pattern from the displayed collage images of a plurality of assignment patterns.

Images