JP2011223627A - Image transmitter, image transmission method, and image transmission program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To protect privacy.SOLUTION: A mobile phone comprises: a camera that outputs a captured image of an operator; a touch panel that accepts designation of at least a part of an area of the captured image; and a control unit that determines a mask area for masking at least a part of the captured image on the basis of the accepted area (S08), creates a composite image by converting the mask area of the captured image to another image (S10), and transmits the composite image (S11).

Description

  The present invention relates to an image transmission device, an image transmission method, and an image transmission program, and more particularly to a portable image transmission device, a captured image transmission method and a captured image transmission program executed by the image transmission device.

  In recent years, mobile phones that can be used for videophone calls have become widespread. In a videophone, an image of a speaker is transmitted at the same time as voice, so the psychological distance between the speakers can be reduced. On the other hand, since the mobile phone is carried, the place where the call is made is not limited. For this reason, the background behind the speaker photographed by the camera differs depending on when and where the call is made. For example, when a videophone call is received while walking on the road, the background of someone else is included in the background, and it may not be preferable to send an image of the background to the other party. In such a case, you must not make a videophone call, or you must make a videophone call after moving to a place where there is no problem even if the background is photographed. There is a problem that it takes a long time to respond to.

  In Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2006-13856 (Patent Document 1), a background region is extracted by recognizing a boundary between a person and a background from a moving image photographed by a camera, and a background image portion of the moving image photographed by the camera is previously stored. A videophone device that transmits moving image data replaced with a stored background image is described.

  However, it is necessary to execute advanced image processing that recognizes the boundary between the person and the background from the moving image captured by the camera and extracts the background area. If the boundary between the person and the background is mistakenly recognized, the processing is performed. There is a problem that can not be. Further, there is a problem that a certain amount of time is required for the process of extracting the background region, and it takes a long time to transmit the moving image.

JP 2006-13856 A

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and one of the objects of the present invention is to provide an image transmitting apparatus capable of protecting privacy.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and one of the objects of the present invention is to provide an image transmission method and an image transmission program capable of protecting privacy.

  In order to achieve the above-described object, according to one aspect of the present invention, an image transmission device outputs an imaged image obtained by imaging a subject, and an area designating unit that accepts designation of at least a partial area of the imaged image And a mask area determining means for determining a mask area for masking at least a part of the captured image based on the received area, and a composition for generating a composite image obtained by converting the mask area of the captured image into another image Image generation means and transmission means for transmitting a composite image are provided.

  According to this aspect, when the designation of at least a part of the captured image obtained by capturing the subject is accepted, a mask area for masking at least a part of the captured image is determined, and the mask area of the captured image is changed to another. A composite image converted into an image is generated and transmitted. For this reason, since at least a part of the captured image obtained by capturing the subject is not transmitted, it is possible to partially select and transmit the image obtained by capturing the image. As a result, it is possible to provide an image transmission device capable of protecting privacy.

  Preferably, the mask area determining means determines the received area or an area other than the received area as a mask area.

  Preferably, a display means for displaying the captured image is further provided, and the area specifying means includes a position receiving means for receiving the position of the display surface of the display means.

  According to this aspect, when the captured image is displayed and the position of the display surface is received, the region is designated, and thus any region can be easily selected from the captured image.

  Preferably, the display means displays an image obtained by superimposing a pattern image including a predetermined mask area on the captured image, and the mask area determination means displays the mask area included in the pattern image on the position of the received display surface. The change means to change based on is included.

  According to this aspect, an image in which a pattern image including a predetermined mask area is superimposed on the captured image is displayed, and the mask area is changed based on the position of the received display surface. This area can be easily selected.

  Preferably, it further includes a feature point extracting unit that extracts a feature point from the captured image, and a mask region moving unit that moves the mask region in the captured image in accordance with a change in the position of the feature point in the captured image.

  According to this aspect, a feature point is extracted from the captured image, and the mask area in the captured image moves according to a change in the position of the feature point in the captured image. Therefore, the imaging range fluctuates or the subject moves. Even in this case, it is possible to prevent a predetermined area in the captured image from being transmitted.

  Preferably, the transmission means transmits the composite image on the condition that the mask area is determined.

  According to another aspect of the present invention, an image transmission method includes a step of acquiring a captured image obtained by capturing an image of a subject, a step of receiving designation of at least a partial region of the captured image, and a received region. Determining a mask region for masking at least a part of the captured image; generating a composite image obtained by converting the mask region of the captured image into another image; and transmitting the composite image.

  According to this aspect, an image transmission method capable of protecting privacy can be provided.

  According to still another aspect of the present invention, an image transmission program is based on a step of acquiring a captured image obtained by capturing an image of a subject, a step of receiving designation of at least a partial region of the captured image, and a received region. A step of determining a mask region for masking at least a part of the captured image, a step of generating a composite image obtained by converting the mask region of the captured image into another image, and a step of transmitting the composite image To run.

  According to this aspect, an image transmission program capable of protecting privacy can be provided.

It is a perspective view which shows the external appearance of the mobile telephone in one of embodiment of this invention. It is a top view of a mobile phone. It is a figure which shows arrangement | positioning of an instruction | indication key. It is a functional block diagram which shows an example of the outline | summary of the function of a mobile telephone. It is a functional block diagram which shows an example of the outline | summary of the function of a control part. It is a figure which shows an example of a captured image. It is a 1st figure which shows an example of a mask area | region. It is a figure which shows an example of a non-mask area | region. It is a 2nd figure which shows an example of a mask area | region. It is a functional block diagram which shows the function which determines a mask area | region using the pattern image of a mask area | region determination part. It is a figure which shows an example of a pattern image. It is a figure which shows the image which superimposed the mask area | region of the pattern image on the captured image. It is a figure which shows the mask area | region after expanding or reducing a pattern image. It is a 1st figure which shows an example of the mask area | region after a movement. It is a 2nd figure which shows an example of the mask area | region after a movement. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the flow of an incoming call process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the flow of a mask area | region determination process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the flow of a tracking process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the flow of a transmission process.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed description thereof will not be repeated.

  In the following description, a mobile phone 1 will be described as an example of a video phone as an image transmission device. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an appearance of a mobile phone according to one embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 1, mobile phone 1 includes a display side portion 2 and an operation side portion 3. The display side part 2 is attached to be slidable in the longitudinal direction so that the back surface thereof faces the surface of the operation side part 3. FIG. 1 shows a state in which the mobile phone 1 is opened by sliding the display side portion 2 with respect to the operation side portion 3. When the cellular phone 1 is closed, the back surface of the display side portion 2 overlaps the surface of the operation side portion 3.

  FIG. 2A is a plan view of the cellular phone 1 in a closed state. FIG. 2B is a plan view of the cellular phone in an opened state. Referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the surface of display side portion 2 includes camera 24, liquid crystal display (LCD) 16, touch panel 25A, call key 14B, instruction key 15, and An operation key 14 including a call end key 14C and a speaker 11 are arranged. The touch panel 25 </ b> A is made of a transparent member, and is disposed so as to overlap the entire display surface of the LCD 16. Although an example in which the mobile phone 1 includes the LCD 16 is shown here, an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display or the like may be used instead of the LCD 16.

In a state where the cellular phone 1 is opened, a part of the surface of the operation side portion 3 is exposed. On the operation side portion 3, a numeric keypad 14A constituting a part of the operation key 14 and a microphone 13 are arranged on the exposed surface portion. A second speaker 12 (see FIG. 4) is disposed on the side surface of the operation side unit 3.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the arrangement of instruction keys. Referring to FIG. 3, instruction key 15 includes a determination key 5, an up arrow key 6, a down arrow key 7, a left arrow key 8, and a right arrow key 9. The enter key 5, the up arrow key 6, the down arrow key 7, the left arrow key 8, and the right arrow key 9 are button switches that are turned on when pressed. The mobile phone 1 can display a pointer on the LCD 16, and when the user operates the instruction key 15, the mobile phone 1 is pressed among the up arrow key 6, the down arrow key 7, the left arrow key 8, and the right arrow key 9. Move the pointer up / down / left / right according to the key. Thereby, it is possible to designate an arbitrary position on the display surface of the LCD 16.

  FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of an outline of functions of the mobile phone. Referring to FIG. 4, a mobile phone 1 includes a control unit 21 for controlling the entire mobile phone 1, a radio circuit 22 connected to an antenna 22A, a codec unit 28 for processing audio data, Each of the microphone 13 and the first speaker 11 connected to the codec unit 28, the tuner 23 connected to the antenna 23A, the AV decoder 29, the camera 24, the operation unit 25 that receives input of a user operation, and the LCD 16 A display control unit 30 for controlling the display of the display, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 31 used as a work area of the control unit 21, and a flash ROM (Flush Read) for storing a program executed by the control unit 21 Only Memory) 32, vibration unit 26, card interface ( I / F) 27 and an external communication connection terminal 33 as a serial interface.

  The radio circuit 22 receives the radio signal received by the antenna 22 </ b> A and outputs an audio signal obtained by demodulating the radio signal to the codec unit 28. The radio circuit 22 receives the audio signal from the codec unit 28 and outputs a radio signal obtained by modulating the audio signal to the antenna 22A. The codec unit 28 decodes the audio signal input from the radio circuit 22, converts the decoded digital audio signal to analog, amplifies it, and outputs it to the first speaker 11. The codec unit 28 receives an analog audio signal from the microphone 13, converts the audio signal to digital, encodes it, and outputs the encoded audio signal to the radio circuit 22.

  The tuner 23 is connected to the antenna 23A, and receives a broadcast signal received by the antenna 23A. The broadcast signal is a high frequency digital modulation signal including video data and audio data. The tuner 23 extracts a signal having a specific frequency from the high frequency digital modulation signal input from the antenna 23A. The tuner 23 also includes a deinterleave circuit and an error correction circuit. The tuner 23 demodulates the extracted high-frequency digital modulation signal having a specific frequency and outputs code data to the AV decoder 29. The AV decoder 29 includes a video decoder and an audio decoder, decodes the code data input from the tuner 23 to generate a video signal and an audio signal, outputs the video signal to the display control unit 30, and outputs the audio signal. D / A (digital / analog) conversion is applied to the second speaker 12. Although an example of receiving and playing back a digital television broadcast wave is shown here, an analog television broadcast wave may be received and played back. Further, instead of the television broadcast or in addition to the television broadcast, the broadcast radio wave of the radio broadcast may be received and reproduced.

  The display control unit 30 is controlled by the control unit 21 and controls the LCD 16 according to an instruction input from the control unit 21 to display an image on the LCD 16. The image displayed on the LCD 16 includes a moving image and a still image.

The camera 24 includes a lens and a CMOS (Complementary Metal O
A photoelectric conversion element such as a xide (sensor) sensor is provided, and the light collected by the lens is imaged on the CMOS sensor. The CMOS sensor photoelectrically converts the received light and outputs image data to the control unit 21. The camera 24 is controlled by the control unit 21, starts imaging in response to an instruction from the control unit 21, and outputs the obtained still image data or moving image data to the control unit 21. The camera 24 includes an image processing circuit that executes image processing for improving the image quality of photoelectrically converted image data, and an A / D conversion circuit that converts image data from analog to digital. The control unit 21 outputs still image data or moving image data output from the camera 24 to the display control unit 30 and causes the LCD 16 to display it. Still image data or moving image data can be encoded and stored in the flash ROM 32 or the memory card 27A attached to the card I / F 27. In addition, when the mobile phone 1 functions as a video phone, the camera 24 encodes the moving image data with a predetermined compression encoding method and outputs the still image to the control unit 21.

  The operation unit 25 includes operation keys 14 and a touch panel 25A. The operation key 14 and the touch panel 25 </ b> A receive an operation input from the user and output the received operation to the control unit 21.

  A removable memory card 27A is attached to the card I / F 27. The memory card 27A is, for example, CompactFlash, SmartMedia (registered trademark), SD (Secure Digital) / MiniSD / MicroSD memory card, memory stick, MMC (MultiMedia Card), xD picture card, and the like.

  The control unit 21 can access the memory card 27A via the card I / F 27. Here, an example in which a program to be executed by the control unit 21 is stored in the flash ROM 32 will be described. However, the program is stored in the memory card 27A, the program is read from the memory card 27A, and is executed by the control unit 21. You may make it do. The recording medium for storing the program is not limited to the memory card 27A, but is a flexible disk, a cassette tape, an optical disk (CD-ROM (Compact Disc-ROM) / MO (Magnetic Optical Disc) / MD (Mini Disc) / DVD (Digital). Versatile Disc)), an optical card, a semiconductor memory such as a mask ROM, an EPROM, or the like. Alternatively, the mobile phone 1 may be connected to the Internet via the wireless circuit 22, and a program may be downloaded from a computer connected to the Internet and executed by the control unit 21. The program here includes not only a program directly executable by the control unit 21 but also a source program, a compressed program, an encrypted program, and the like.

  FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of an outline of functions of the control unit. With reference to FIG. 5, the control unit 21 includes a captured image acquisition unit 51 that acquires a captured image, a position reception unit 57 that receives designation of an arbitrary position in the captured image, and a mask region for determining a mask region. A determination unit 59, a composite image generation unit 53 that generates a composite image obtained by replacing the mask area of the captured image with another image, a transmission unit 55 that transmits the composite image, and a feature point included in the captured image is extracted. And a mask area moving unit 63 that moves the mask area for the captured image in accordance with the movement of the feature point in the captured image.

  The captured image acquisition unit 51 receives a captured image that the camera 24 captures and outputs a subject. The captured image acquisition unit 51 acquires an input captured image. The captured image acquisition unit 51 outputs the acquired captured image to the composite image generation unit 53 and the feature point extraction unit 61. The captured image input from the camera 24 includes a still image and a moving image. Here, a case where a moving image is input as a captured image will be described as an example. When the captured image is input from the captured image acquisition unit 51, the composite image generation unit 53 outputs the captured image to the display control unit 30 and displays it on the LCD 16.

  The position accepting unit 57 accepts designation of an arbitrary position in the captured image. The position receiving unit 57 receives a position in the captured image that is instructed by the user on the touch panel 25A. The position receiving unit 57 specifies the position in the captured image displayed on the LCD 16 from the position detected by the touch panel 25A. Further, the user operates the instruction key 15 to move the pointer displayed on the LCD 16 and receives the position of the pointer when the determination key 5 is pressed. The position in the captured image displayed on the LCD 16 is specified from the position of the pointer displayed on the LCD 16. The position receiving unit 57 outputs the received position in the captured image to the mask area determining unit 59.

  The mask area determining unit 59 determines a mask area in the captured image based on the position in the captured image input from the position receiving unit 57, and outputs the determined mask area to the mask area moving unit 63. The mask area determination unit 59 switches the mode to either a mask area designation mode or a non-mask area designation mode. When the mask area designating mode 59 is switched to the mask area designation mode, the mask area determining unit 59 sets a position in the captured image input from the position receiving unit 57 or a predetermined range from the position as the mask area. When the user traces the touch panel with a finger or draws the tip with the instruction key 15, a plurality of adjacent positions are continuously input from the position receiving unit 57. The mask area determination unit 59 sets an area within a predetermined range from a plurality of positions input continuously as a mask area. Further, a region surrounded by a plurality of positions that are continuously input may be used as a mask region.

  When the mask area determination unit 59 is switched to the non-mask area designation mode, the mask area determination unit 59 sets a predetermined range from the position in the captured image input from the position reception unit 57 as the non-mask area. The mask area determination unit 59 sets an area within a predetermined range from a plurality of positions continuously input from the position reception unit 57 as a non-mask area. In addition, a region surrounded by a plurality of positions that are continuously input may be a non-mask region. The mask area determination unit 59 determines an area other than the non-mask area in the captured image as a mask area.

  Here, the specification of the mask area will be specifically described. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a captured image. Referring to FIG. 6, captured image 100 includes an image 101 of the operator of mobile phone 1 as a subject, and a sign image 103 on which characters “OO Co., Ltd.” are displayed on the background. FIG. 7 is a first diagram illustrating an example of a mask region. In the state where the captured image 100 shown in FIG. 6 is displayed on the LCD 16, the operator instructs the area other than the own image 101 to be painted on the touch panel 25 </ b> A, whereby the mask area shown by hatching in FIG. 7. 110 is identified. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a non-mask area. When the captured image 100 shown in FIG. 6 is displayed on the LCD 16, the operator instructs the user to paint his / her image 101 with the touch panel 25 </ b> A, whereby a non-mask area 111 indicated by hatching in FIG. Identified. FIG. 9 is a second diagram illustrating an example of the mask area. In a state where the captured image 100 shown in FIG. 6 is displayed on the LCD 16, the operator instructs the touch panel 25A to fill the area of the sign image 103 on which the characters “XX Corporation” are displayed. Thus, the mask region 113 indicated by hatching in FIG. 9 is specified.

Returning to FIG. 5, the mask area determination unit 59 can also determine the mask area based on the pattern image stored in advance in the flash ROM 32. FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram illustrating a function of determining a mask area using the pattern image of the mask area determining unit 59. Referring to FIG. 10, mask area determination unit 59 has a pattern image acquisition unit 71 that acquires a pattern image, an extension instruction reception unit 73 that receives an extension instruction, and an extension that extends a mask area based on the extension instruction. Part 75 and reduction instruction receiving part 7 for receiving a reduction instruction
7 and a reduction unit 79 that reduces and expands the mask area based on the reduction instruction.

  The pattern image acquisition unit 71 reads a pattern image stored in advance in the flash ROM 32. A plurality of pattern images may be stored in the flash ROM 32, and any one pattern image may be selected from the characteristics of the image included in the captured image, or the operator may select any one. May be. The pattern image acquisition unit 71 outputs the read pattern image to the display control unit 30 to display an image obtained by superimposing the pattern image on the captured image displayed on the LCD 16, as well as an expansion instruction reception unit 73 and a reduction instruction reception unit. Output to 77.

  When the pattern image is input from the pattern image acquisition unit 71, the extension instruction reception unit 73 sets the pattern image as a mask area. The expansion instruction receiving unit 73 receives a mask area from the expansion unit 75 or the reduction unit 79. Furthermore, the extension instruction receiving unit 73 receives an extension instruction from the touch panel 25A or the instruction key 15. The extension instruction accepting unit 73 accepts an extension instruction when the user designates a position other than the mask area continuously after instructing the position of the mask area on the touch panel 25A. The extension instruction includes a position other than the mask area. When receiving the extension instruction, the extension instruction receiving unit 73 outputs a position other than the mask area included in the received extension instruction and the mask area at that time to the extension unit 75.

  The extension unit 75 extends the mask area received from the extension instruction receiving unit 73 to a position other than the mask area. The expansion unit 75 outputs the expanded mask area to the expansion instruction reception unit 73 and the reduction instruction reception unit 77.

  When a pattern image is input from the pattern image acquisition unit 71, the reduction instruction reception unit 77 sets the pattern image as a mask area. The reduction instruction receiving unit 77 receives a mask area from the expansion unit 75 or the reduction unit 79. Further, the reduction instruction receiving unit 77 receives a reduction instruction from the touch panel 25 </ b> A or the instruction key 15. The reduction instruction accepting unit 77 accepts a reduction instruction when the user designates a position other than the mask area on the touch panel 25A and then designates the position of the mask area continuously. The reduction instruction includes the position of the mask area. When receiving the reduction instruction, the reduction instruction receiving unit 77 outputs the position of the mask area included in the received reduction instruction and the mask area at that time to the reduction unit 79.

  The reduction unit 79 reduces the mask area received from the reduction instruction reception unit 77 to the position of the mask area. The reduction unit 79 outputs the reduced mask area to the expansion instruction receiving unit 73 and the reduction instruction receiving unit 77.

  A specific example of determining a mask area using a pattern image will be described. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a pattern image. Referring to FIG. 11, the pattern image includes a pattern 121 to be a mask area. In the figure, the pattern 121 is indicated by hatching. The pattern image includes an area other than the circular mask area at the approximate center of the screen. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an image in which a mask area of a pattern image is superimposed on a captured image. Referring to FIG. 12, when the user designates the position indicated by point 123 on touch panel 25A and moves the finger in the direction of the arrow extending from point 123, a reduction instruction is accepted. When the user designates the position indicated by the point 125 on the touch panel 25A and moves the finger in the direction of the arrow extending from the point 125 with the pattern image superimposed on the captured image and displayed on the LCD 16, the expansion is performed. Instructions are accepted. FIG. 13 shows the mask area after the pattern image is expanded or reduced.

  As described above, since the mask area can be changed by enlarging or reducing the mask area included in the pattern image on the touch panel 25A, it is possible to easily determine the mask area according to the captured image.

  Return to FIG. The feature point extraction unit 61 extracts feature points from the captured image input from the captured image acquisition unit 51. The feature points are included in, for example, characteristic shapes, colors, patterns, and the like included in captured images such as human eyes and characters. A feature point can be determined by binarizing the captured image to extract a predetermined shape or extracting a predetermined color portion from the captured image.

  The feature point extracting unit 61 outputs the extracted feature points to the mask area moving unit 63. When the positions of the same feature points extracted from the two captured images input from the captured image acquisition unit 51 at different times are different, the feature point extraction unit 61 calculates a movement vector and sends it to the mask region movement unit 63. Output.

  The mask area moving unit 63 outputs the mask area input from the mask area determining unit 59 to the composite image generating unit 53. When the movement vector is input from the feature point extraction unit 61, the mask area moving unit 63 moves the mask area in the captured image by the direction and distance specified by the movement vector, and synthesizes the mask area after the movement. The image is output to the image generation unit 53.

  The composite image generation unit 53 generates a composite image in which the mask region input from the mask region moving unit 63 among the captured images input from the captured image acquisition unit 51 is replaced with a preset image. The preset image is stored in advance in the flash ROM 32, and is determined by the user selecting one or more of the plurality of preset images. The composite image generation unit 53 outputs the composite image to the transmission unit 55.

  The transmission unit 55 transmits the composite image input from the composite image generation unit 53 to the other party's video phone via the wireless circuit 22.

  Here, the movement of the mask area will be described. FIG. 14 is a first diagram illustrating an example of the mask area after movement. Here, a case where an operator moves in a captured image using a human eye as a feature point is shown as an example. The mask area 110 shown in FIG. 7 moves as the operator's image 101 moves. In FIG. 14, an area 110A indicated by hatching is a mask area after movement. A region outside the mask region is newly set as a mask region.

  FIG. 15 is a second diagram illustrating an example of the mask area after movement. Here, the case where the imaging range of the camera 24 fluctuates in the left direction with the characters in the captured image as feature points is shown as an example. In the mask area 113 shown in FIG. 9, the characters “OO Co., Ltd.” in the captured image move as the imaging range of the camera 24 changes. The mask area 113 shown in FIG. 9 moves as much as the character “XX Co., Ltd.” in the captured image moves, and moves to the position of the mask area 113A indicated by hatching shown in FIG.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the flow of incoming call processing. The incoming call process is a process executed by the control unit 21 when the control unit 21 executes the captured image transmission program. Referring to FIG. 16, control unit 21 determines whether an incoming call has been detected (step S01). When the radio circuit 22 receives the incoming call signal, the incoming call is detected. The process waits until an incoming call is detected (NO in step S01). When an incoming call is detected, the process proceeds to step S02. In other words, the incoming call process is a process executed on condition that an incoming call is detected.

  In step S02, it is determined whether a call instruction is accepted. It is determined whether or not the call key 14B has been pressed. If a response instruction is accepted, the process proceeds to step S03. If not, the process ends. This is because the call is not established when the operator does not intend to answer the call.

  When the process proceeds to step S03, communication is established with the videophone on the calling side. In step S03, a voice call is started. At this stage, a voice call is possible.

  In step S04, it is determined whether the call is a videophone call. If the call is a videophone call, the process proceeds to step S05; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S17. When the process proceeds to step S05, when moving image data is received from the calling side videophone, the moving image data is output to the display control unit 30 and displayed on the LCD 16. In step S17, it is determined whether or not the voice call has ended. It will be in a standby state until the call ends (NO in step S17), and if the call ends, the process ends. The end of the call is determined by detecting the disconnection of communication or detecting the pressing of the call end key 14C.

  In step S05, transmission of a preset character is started. Specifically, the preset characters stored in advance in the flash ROM 32 are read out and transmitted to the other party's video phone via the radio circuit 22. As a result, the preset character is displayed on the other party's video phone. At this stage, the image obtained by imaging with the camera 24 is not transmitted to the other party's video phone.

  In the next step S06, it is determined whether or not to send an image. Whether to send an image may be set in advance, or may be determined according to an instruction input by the user to the operation key 14. If the image is to be transmitted, the process proceeds to step S07; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S13.

  In step S07, it is determined whether to mask the image. Whether to mask or not may be determined according to a preset setting, or may be determined according to an instruction input by the user. When the determination is made according to the instruction input by the user, the camera 24 displays a captured image output by imaging the operator on the LCD 16, and displays a message asking whether or not to mask on the LCD 16 to input an instruction to the user. Prompt. If the key indicating masking assigned to operation key 14 is input by the user, the process proceeds to step S08; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S14.

  In step S08, a mask area determination process is executed. Although mask area determination processing will be described later, it is processing for determining a mask area in a captured image. In the next step S09, it is determined whether an instruction to transmit an image has been accepted. The mask area determination process is repeated until a key assigned in advance for inputting an instruction to transmit an image among the operation keys 14 is designated. If the key is designated, the process proceeds to step S10. This is because, after the operator determines the mask area, the camera 24 transmits a captured image output by imaging the operator for the first time.

  In step S10, a composite image is generated. Specifically, a composite image in which the mask area determined in step S08 is replaced with another image among the captured images output by the camera 24 imaging the operator is generated. Another image is a preset image determined by the mask area determination process in step S08 or an image filled with a single color. In the next step S11, the composite image is transmitted to the other party's videophone via the wireless circuit 22 in place of the preset character which has been transmitted in step S05. As a result, the composite image is displayed on the other party's video phone.

  In the next step S12, a follow-up process is executed. Although the follow-up process will be described later, it is a process of moving the mask area following the movement of the feature point in the captured image. Then, in the next step S13, it is determined whether or not the call is finished. If the call is finished, the process is terminated; otherwise, the process returns to step S10. This is because the composite image is transmitted until the call ends.

  On the other hand, in step S14, as in step S09, it is determined whether an instruction to transmit an image has been accepted. The process waits until an instruction to transmit an image is received (NO in step S14). When an instruction to transmit an image is received, the process proceeds to step S15. This is because the camera 24 transmits a captured image that is captured and output by the operator 24 for the first time after the operator gives an instruction. Note that the processing may be immediately advanced to step S15 without receiving an instruction to transmit an image.

  In step S15, the captured image is transmitted to the other party's video phone via the wireless circuit 22. As a result, the captured image is displayed on the other party's video phone. In the next step S16, it is determined whether or not the telephone call is finished. If the call is finished, the process is terminated; otherwise, the process returns to step S15. This is because the captured image is transmitted until the call ends.

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the flow of the mask area determination process. The mask area determination process is a process executed in step S08 of FIG. Referring to FIG. 17, the process branches according to the mask area designation method (step S51). The mask region designation method may be set in advance, or may be selected by the user inputting an instruction to the operation unit 25.

  If the mask area designation method is mask area designation, the process proceeds to step S52. If a non-mask area designation is designated, the process proceeds to step S61. If the pattern image designation is designated, the process proceeds to step S71.

  In step S52, the position in the captured image displayed on LCD 16 is received. Specifically, the position corresponding to the position indicated on the touch panel 25A is specified, or the position of the captured image corresponding to the position of the pointer displayed on the LCD 16 indicated by the instruction key 15 is specified. Then, the received position is set as a mask area (step S53). A predetermined range from the accepted position may be set as the mask area, or an area surrounded by a plurality of positions that are continuously accepted may be set as the mask area.

  Then, it is determined whether or not the mask area has been designated (step S54). When the user inputs an instruction to end the specification of the mask area to the operation key 14, it is determined that the specification of the mask area has ended. If the mask area has been designated, the process proceeds to step S55; otherwise, the process returns to step S52. This is because a plurality of mask areas can be specified.

  In step S61, as in step S52, the position of the captured image displayed on the LCD 16 is accepted. Then, the received position is set as a non-mask area (step S62). A predetermined range from the accepted position may be set as a non-mask area, or an area surrounded by a plurality of positions that are continuously accepted may be set as a non-mask area.

Then, it is determined whether or not the designation of the non-mask area has been completed (step S63). When the user inputs an instruction to end the specification of the mask area to the operation key 14, it is determined that the specification of the non-mask area has ended. If the designation of the non-mask area has been completed, the process proceeds to step S64; otherwise, the process returns to step S61. This is because a plurality of non-mask areas can be specified. In step S64, an area other than the non-mask area in the captured image is set as a mask area, and the process proceeds to step S55.

  In step S71, a pattern image stored in advance in the flash ROM 32 is read and displayed on the LCD 16. Since the captured image is displayed on the LCD 16, an image obtained by superimposing the mask region included in the pattern image on the captured image is displayed on the LCD 16. A plurality of pattern images may be stored in the flash ROM 32, and the user may select one of them, or one of the plurality of pattern images may be selected based on features extracted from the captured image. You may make it select one. Further, the pattern image may be enlarged or reduced based on the size of the subject in the captured image.

  In step S72, it is determined whether an extension instruction has been input. After the position of the mask area displayed on the LCD 16 is received by the touch panel 25A or the instruction key 15, an extension instruction is received when positions other than the mask area are continuously received. If an extension instruction has been accepted, the process proceeds to step S73; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S74. In step S73, the mask area is expanded and the process proceeds to step S74. Specifically, the touch panel 25A changes a position other than the mask area continuously received after the position of the mask area displayed on the LCD 16 is received to the mask area.

  In step S74, it is determined whether a reduction instruction has been input. When the position of the area other than the mask area displayed on the LCD 16 is received by the touch panel 25A and then the position of the mask area is continuously received, a reduction instruction is received. If a reduction instruction is accepted, the process proceeds to step S75; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S76. In step S75, the mask area is reduced, and the process proceeds to step S76. Specifically, the position of the mask area continuously received after the position of the area other than the mask area displayed on the LCD 16 is received by the touch panel 25A is changed to a non-mask area.

  In step S76, it is determined whether a mask area has been determined. In other words, it is determined whether or not the expansion and reduction of the mask area have been completed. When the user inputs an instruction for determining the mask area to the operation key 14, it is determined that the mask area has been determined. If the mask area is determined, the process proceeds to step S55; otherwise, the process returns to step S72. This is because the mask area can be enlarged and reduced a plurality of times.

  In step S55, it is determined whether a preset image has been selected. If the preset image stored in flash ROM 32 has been selected, the process proceeds to step S56; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S57. In step S56, the selected preset image is set as the image in the mask area, and the process returns. Thereby, a composite image in which the mask area of the captured image is replaced with the preset image is generated.

  On the other hand, in step S57, a single color is set for the image in the mask area, and the process returns. As a result, a composite image in which the mask area of the captured image is replaced with a single color image is generated.

Note that the mask area may be designated by combining the mask area designation and the non-mask area designation. According to the designation method by mask area designation, an area that is not desired to be transmitted in the captured image can be designated, and according to the designation method by non-mask area designation, the area to be transmitted in the captured image can be designated. . Therefore, by combining both specification methods,
The mask area can be specified more easily.

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the flow of follow-up processing. The follow-up process is a process executed in step S12 of FIG. Referring to FIG. 18, feature points are extracted from the captured image (step S81). The feature points are human eye images, characters, and the like. Then, it is determined whether or not the feature point is moving (step S82). Specifically, it is determined whether the position of the feature point extracted from the captured image ahead of the captured image from which the current feature point is extracted is different from the position of the feature point extracted this time. If the positions of feature points extracted from two different captured images are different, it is determined that the feature points are moving. If the feature point has moved, the process proceeds to step S83, and if not, the process returns.

  In step S83, the mask area is moved and the process returns. The mask area is translated in accordance with a vector obtained from the two feature points. When the mask area before the movement is in contact with any one of the four sides of the captured image, a new area is defined between the side in contact with the mask area.

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the flow of outgoing call processing. The transmission process is a process executed by the control unit 21 when the control unit 21 executes the captured image transmission program. Referring to FIG. 19, control unit 21 determines whether or not the videophone is activated (step S21). The process waits until the videophone is activated. If the videophone is activated, the process proceeds to step S22. That is, the calling process is a process that is executed on condition that the videophone is activated. In step S22, as in step S07 of FIG. 15, it is determined whether or not to mask the image to be transmitted. If the image is masked, the process proceeds to step S23; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S32.

  In step S23, the mask area determination process shown in FIG. 16 is executed. In the next step S24, it is determined whether a call instruction has been accepted. If it is detected that the call key 14B is pressed, a call instruction is accepted and the process proceeds to step S25. If not, the process returns to step S23. This is because the camera 24 makes a call after determining the mask area, and transmits a composite image in which the camera 24 masks the captured image output by imaging the operator.

  In step S25, a call is made and the process proceeds to step S26. In step S26, it is determined whether or not there is a call. If there is a call, the process proceeds to step S27. If there is no call, the process ends.

  In step S27, a voice call is started, and the process proceeds to step S28. In step S28, a composite image is generated. Specifically, a composite image is generated by replacing the mask area determined in step S23 with another image in the captured image output by the camera 24 imaging the operator. Another image is a preset image determined by the mask area determination process in step S23 or an image filled in a single color. In the next step S29, the composite image is transmitted to the other party's video phone via the wireless circuit 22. As a result, the composite image is displayed on the other party's video phone.

  In the next step S30, the follow-up process shown in FIG. 16 is executed, and the process proceeds to step S31. In step S31, it is determined whether the call has ended. If the call has ended, the process ends. If the call has not ended, the process returns to step S28.

On the other hand, in step S32, the process waits until a call instruction is accepted. If a call instruction is accepted, the process proceeds to step S33. In step S33, a call is made and the process proceeds to step S34. In step S34, it is determined whether or not there is a call. If there is a call, the process proceeds to step S35, and if there is no call, the process ends.

  In step S35, a voice call is started, and the process proceeds to step S36. In step S36, it is determined whether or not to send an image. If the image is to be sent, the process proceeds to step S37; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S39.

  In step S <b> 37, the captured image is transmitted to the other party's video phone via the wireless circuit 22. As a result, the captured image is displayed on the other party's video phone. In the next step S38, it is determined whether or not the call has ended. If the call is finished, the process is terminated; otherwise, the process returns to step S37. This is because the captured image is transmitted until the call ends. In step S38, it is determined whether or not the call has ended. The process waits until the call ends, and when the call ends, the process ends.

  As described above, the mobile phone 1 according to the present embodiment functions as a video phone, and when at least a part of the background of the captured image obtained by capturing the operator is designated by the touch panel 25A, the captured image is displayed. A mask area for masking at least a part is determined, and a composite image obtained by converting the mask area of the captured image into a preset image or a single color image is generated and transmitted. For this reason, since an area such as a background of a captured image obtained by imaging the operator is not transmitted, it is possible to partially select and transmit an image obtained by imaging. For example, if an image that the operator does not want to transmit is included in the background, the image can be prevented from being transmitted.

  In addition, since the mask area can be designated while displaying the captured image on the LCD 16, it is possible to easily select an area not to be transmitted from the captured image.

  Further, an image obtained by superimposing a pattern image including a predetermined mask area on the captured image is displayed on the LCD 16, and the mask area can be enlarged or reduced by operating the touch panel 25A. Since the mask area is changed based on the displayed position of the display surface, it is possible to easily select an area not to be transmitted from the captured image.

  Further, when feature points such as eyes and characters are extracted from the captured image, and the position of the feature point changes in the captured image, the mask area in the captured image is moved according to the change, so the imaging range of the camera 24 varies. Even if the subject moves or the subject moves, it is possible to prevent the transmission of an area that is not desired to be transmitted in the captured image.

  If the mask area is not determined, the captured image is not transmitted, so that it is possible to reliably prevent an image that is not desired to be transmitted.

  In this embodiment, image transmission in the videophone function has been described. However, the transmission is not limited to the videophone function, and, for example, characters, sounds, and images such as Hello Messenger service provided by KDDI are combined for transmission / reception. It can also be applied to image transmission in the meeting function.

In the present embodiment, the mobile phone 1 has been described as an example of the image transmission apparatus. However, the captured image transmission method that causes the image transmission apparatus to execute the processes illustrated in FIGS. 16 to 19 and FIGS. It goes without saying that the invention can be understood as a captured image transmission program for causing a computer to execute the processing shown in FIG.

  The embodiment disclosed this time should be considered as illustrative in all points and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

<Appendix>
(1) The changing means includes an expanding means for expanding the mask area;
The image transmission apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising a reduction unit that reduces the mask area.
(2) face area detecting means for detecting a face area from the captured image;
The image transmission apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising pattern image generation means for generating a pattern image using the detected face area as the mask area.
(3) an incoming call detection means for detecting an incoming call;
The image transmission device according to claim 7, wherein, when an instruction to answer an incoming call is received, the transmission unit transmits a predetermined image until the mask area is determined.
(4) The image transmission device according to claim 7, wherein, when an instruction to call is accepted, the transmission unit transmits a predetermined image until the mask area is determined.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Mobile phone, 2 Display side part, 3 Operation side part, 5 Enter key, 6 Up arrow key, 7 Down arrow key, 8 Left arrow key, 9 Right arrow key, 11 1st speaker, 12 2nd speaker, 13 Microphone , 14 operation keys, 14A numeric keypad, 14B call key, 14C call end key, 15 instruction key, 21 control unit, 22 radio circuit, 22A antenna, 23 tuner, 23A antenna, 24 camera, 25 operation unit, 25A touch panel, 26 vibration 27, card I / F, 27A memory card, 28 codec unit, 29 AV decoder, 30 display control unit, 31 RAM, 32 flash ROM, 33 external communication connection terminal, 51 captured image acquisition unit, 53 composite image generation unit, 55 transmitting unit, 57 position receiving unit, 59 mask area determining unit, 61 Extraction unit, 63 mask region movement section, 71 pattern image acquisition unit, 73 extended instruction receiving section, 75 extension, 77 reduced instruction receiving section, 79 reduction unit.

Claims (8)

Imaging means for outputting a captured image obtained by imaging a subject;
Area designation means for accepting designation of at least a partial area of the captured image;
Mask area determining means for determining a mask area for masking at least a part of the captured image based on the received area;
Composite image generation means for generating a composite image obtained by converting the mask area of the captured image into another image;
An image transmission apparatus comprising: transmission means for transmitting the composite image.   The image transmission apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the mask area determination unit determines the received area or an area other than the area as the mask area. It further comprises display means for displaying the captured image,
The image transmitting apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the area specifying unit includes a position receiving unit that receives a position of a display surface of the display unit. The display means displays an image in which a pattern image including a predetermined mask region is superimposed on the captured image,
The image transmission apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the mask area determining unit includes a changing unit that changes a mask area included in the pattern image based on the received position of the display surface. Feature point extraction means for extracting feature points from the captured image;
The image transmission apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a mask area moving unit that moves the mask area in the captured image according to a change in a position of the feature point in the captured image.   The image transmission apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the transmission unit transmits the composite image on condition that the mask area is determined. Acquiring a captured image obtained by imaging a subject;
Receiving a designation of at least a partial area of the captured image;
Determining a mask region for masking at least a part of the captured image based on the received region;
Generating a composite image obtained by converting the mask region of the captured image into another image;
And a step of transmitting the composite image. Acquiring a captured image obtained by imaging a subject;
Receiving a designation of at least a partial area of the captured image;
Determining a mask region for masking at least a part of the captured image based on the received region;
Generating a composite image obtained by converting the mask region of the captured image into another image;
An image transmission program for causing a computer to execute the step of transmitting the composite image.