JP2012034244A - Imaging apparatus, network system, program, information storage medium and imaging apparatus control method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an imaging apparatus that generates a user custom edit material image where user information stored in an external storage device such as a server is reflected, and that has an edit function using the user custom edit material image.SOLUTION: An imaging apparatus 200 capable of communicating with an external storage device 100 and having an edit function includes: an imaging unit 298 for imaging a subject to obtain an image; a user information acquisition processing unit 214 for receiving user information stored in the external storage device 100 to acquire the user information; an edit material image generation unit 216 for generating an original edit material image corresponding to a user on the basis of the acquired user information; and an edit processing unit 220 for providing the original edit material image as an edit material, and editing the obtained image or an image generated on the basis of the obtained image using the original edit material image on the basis of input information.

Description

  The present invention relates to a photographing apparatus, a network system, a program, an information storage medium, and a method for controlling the photographing apparatus.

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

  A photographing device such as a photo sticker manufacturing machine can edit a photographed image photographed by a plurality of friends to generate and enjoy a photograph sticker having a high degree of freedom different from a normal photograph.

  Recently, it is also popular as a communication tool for exchanging edited images over a network and publishing them on the Web without printing as photo stickers.

JP 2006-162719 A

  One of the reasons for the popularity of such a photographing apparatus is that a user's original edited image (photo sticker) can be obtained by performing various edits on the photographed image. However, simply grabbing a photographed image or pasting a prepared stamp makes the user bored, so there is a need to provide a novel editing function that captures the user's interests and needs.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems. According to some aspects of the present invention, a user original editing material image reflecting user information stored in an external storage device such as a server is generated, and editing using the user original editing material image is performed. A photographing apparatus having a function, a network system, a program, an information storage medium, and a method for controlling the photographing apparatus can be provided.

(1) The present invention
An imaging device capable of communicating with an external storage device and having an editing function,
A shooting unit for shooting a subject and acquiring a shot image;
A user information acquisition processing unit for receiving user information stored in the external storage device and acquiring user information;
An editing material image generation unit that generates an original editing material image corresponding to the user based on the acquired user information;
An editing processing unit that provides an original editing material image as an editing material and performs an editing process on the captured image or an image generated based on the captured image using the original editing material image based on input information When,
It is related with the imaging device characterized by including.

  The present invention also relates to a program that causes a computer to function as each of the above-described units. The present invention also relates to a computer-readable information storage medium that stores (records) a program that causes a computer to function as each unit. The present invention also relates to a method for controlling an imaging apparatus including steps for executing the above-described units.

  The imaging device has a communication function and is configured to be able to communicate with an external storage device (server, mobile phone, IC card, portable game device, portable information communication device, personal computer, etc.).

  The user information may be user profile information such as the user's name, nickname, date of birth, blood type, or the like, or may be user's play history data in a photographing device or a predetermined game.

  The editing material image generation unit may generate an original editing material image corresponding to the user in real time based on the acquired user information. In this way, since it is not necessary to always store the original editing material image in the photographing apparatus, an increase in the data amount can be prevented. Here, the original editing material image may be, for example, a user-specific image (stamp image or background image) to be combined with the editing target image.

  The image generated based on the photographed image may be, for example, a composite image obtained by extracting a background color from the photographed image and combining it with a given background image.

  According to the present invention, there is provided a photographing apparatus that generates a user original editing material image reflecting user information stored in an external storage device and has an editing function using the user original editing material image. be able to.

(2) In this photographing apparatus, program, information storage medium and photographing method,
An access information acquisition processing unit for acquiring access information associated with user information stored in the server functioning as the external storage device;
The user information acquisition processing unit
A request for transmission of user information stored in association with the access information is made to the server via the network, response information corresponding to the transmission request is received, and user information included in the response information is acquired. May be.

  The access information is an ID or URL that can be used to access user information stored in the server, an ID or URL that is used for access, and is, for example, a non-contact communication type IC card possessed by the user. It may be a contact communication ID, a device ID used for billing management of a mobile phone or the like, an address in a user information storage area of a server, a URL of a Web page where user information can be browsed, and the like.

  Access information is communicated with a mobile phone, a portable game machine, or a portable information communication device (including short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth, infrared communication, and non-contact communication with a non-contact IC card). You may get it. Further, it may be obtained by reading a barcode, a two-dimensional code, or a QR code. Further, it may be obtained by reading with a card reader. Moreover, you may acquire by the input from input devices, such as a touch panel and a keyboard.

  The IC chip for non-contact communication may be a so-called non-contact communication IC card. For example, a “proximity” non-contact type IC card may be used. A non-contact type IC card is an IC card that has an antenna inside the card and transmits and receives data using weak radio waves transmitted from an external terminal.

  The IC chip for non-contact communication transmits a carrier from the reader / writer, supplies power to the IC chip by electromagnetic induction, and performs communication between the reader / writer and the IC chip by modulation of the carrier.

  A URL (Uniform Resource Locator) is a sequence of formal symbols for identifying resources on the Internet, and mainly describes the location of resources provided in Internet applications such as WWW. This is what you specify. Resources refer to data and services (mainly on the Internet) and include, for example, web pages and e-mail destinations.

(3) In this photographing apparatus, program, information storage medium and photographing method,
The edit processing unit
The original editing material images may be grouped for each user and provided as a user-specific editing material group.

  Grouping the original editing material images for each user and providing them as user-specific editing materials means, for example, when a plurality of original editing material images for each user are generated, providing a user-specific palette for each user, This includes a case where a plurality of original editing material images (user-specific editing material groups) of the user are stored in the user-specific palette and provided on the editing screen.

  In this way, since the original editing material images generated based on the user information are provided as a group, it is possible to provide an easy-to-use user interface that requires less time to search for the original editing material image. it can.

(4) In this photographing apparatus, program, information storage medium and photographing method,
The edit processing unit
An editing material image related to the user may be extracted from an editing material image prepared in advance based on user information, and the extracted editing material image may be included in the editing material group for each user and provided.

  For example, all constellation stamp images and all blood type stamp images are prepared in advance as editing material images, and the constellation and blood group stamp images to which the user belongs are extracted based on the user's date of birth and blood type. Then, it may be provided in the same palette as the user's original material image for editing.

  In addition, from among the editing material images prepared in advance, based on past history information (here, information on editing material images used by the user in past editing), a stamp image (a user's usage frequency satisfies a predetermined standard) A stamp image having the highest use frequency or a stamp image having a use frequency rank higher than a predetermined rank may be extracted.

  In this way, the original editing material image generated in real time and the existing editing material image that are related to the user can be grouped and provided (for example, in the same package pellet). A good user interface can be provided.

(5) In this photographing apparatus, program, information storage medium and photographing method,
The editing material image generation unit
When user information of a plurality of users is acquired, an original editing material image corresponding to the plurality of users may be generated based on the user information of the plurality of users.

  The original editing material image corresponding to a plurality of users may be an editing material image (stamp image or background image material image) containing names (nicknames) of a plurality of users, for example.

  It may also be an editing material image extracted based on the relationship among a plurality of users.

(6) In this photographing apparatus, program, information storage medium and photographing method,
The edit processing unit
When user information of a plurality of users is acquired, the original editing material image group of a given user may be provided to other users as editing material.

  When generating original editing material images of a plurality of users including the first user and the second user, the original editing material image generated based on the user information of the first user is The original editing material image provided in the editing process and generated based on the user information of the second user is provided in the editing process of the second user.

  In addition, when a plurality of users including the first user and the second user perform shooting and editing together, the original editing material image generated based on the user information of the first user is used. The original editing material image provided in the editing process and generated based on the user information of the second user may be provided in the editing process of the first user.

(7) In this photographing apparatus, program, information storage medium and photographing method,
The user information includes past play history information related to the user,
The editing material image generation unit
An editing material image corresponding to the play history may be provided based on the use history information.

  The past play history may be, for example, the number of times the photographing apparatus has been played, the use history of material images used during editing, or the like.

  The editing material image provided according to the play history may be an original editing material image generated in real time according to user information, or an editing material image extracted from an editing material image prepared in advance. Good.

(8) In this photographing apparatus, program, information storage medium and photographing method,
The user information includes text information indicating a sequence of one or more texts,
The editing material image generation unit
Extract image information corresponding to each text of the text information included in the user information from image information corresponding to each text prepared in advance, and based on the extracted image information, an original editing material image corresponding to the user information May be generated.

  The imaging apparatus has a group of material images prepared in advance corresponding to each text (characters and numbers), receives a text string (characters and numbers) as user information, and selects a material image corresponding to each text. The material images for selection may be selected and arranged based on the sequence of text strings to generate the original material image for editing. Alternatively, the original editing material image may be generated by arranging the character strings in sequence and then combining them with a given background material image.

(9) The present invention
A network system including an imaging device capable of communicating with an external storage device and having an editing function, and a server,
The imaging device
A shooting unit for shooting a subject and acquiring a shot image;
An access information acquisition processing unit for acquiring access information associated with user information stored in the server;
A request for transmission of user information stored in association with the access information is made to the server via the network, response information corresponding to the transmission request is received, and user information included in the response information is acquired. A user information acquisition processing unit,
An editing material image generation unit that generates an original editing material image corresponding to the user based on the acquired user information;
An editing processing unit that provides an original editing material image as an editing material and performs an editing process on the captured image or an image generated based on the captured image using the original editing material image based on input information And including
The server
A user information storage unit in which user information is stored in association with the access information;
When the user information transmission request is received from the imaging device via the network, if the corresponding user information exists, response information including the corresponding user information is sent to the requesting imaging device via the network. A user information providing unit to transmit;
The present invention relates to a network system including

(10) In this network system,
The server
A user information input form may be provided on the Web site, and a user information registration processing unit that performs user information registration processing in the user information storage unit based on input information from the user information input form may be included.

  The user information registration process also includes an update process of user information already registered in the user information storage unit.

1 is a perspective view illustrating an example of an appearance of a photographic printing apparatus according to an embodiment. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an example of an appearance of a photographic printing apparatus according to an embodiment. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an example of an appearance of a photographic printing apparatus according to an embodiment. An example of the block diagram of the imaging device of this embodiment. The figure which shows the network system of this embodiment. An example of the functional block diagram of the server of the network system of this embodiment. The figure for demonstrating the exchange of data between an imaging device, a server, and a portable information communication apparatus. The figure for demonstrating an example of the flow of a process of an imaging device, a server, and a user. 9A and 9B are diagrams for explaining user information. 10A and 10B are examples of original editing material images of users A and B. FIG. FIGS. 11A and 11B are examples of original editing material images of users A and B. FIG. An example of a hiragana nickname registration screen. An example of a user (nickname) selection screen. An example of an additional profile screen. An example of an additional profile screen. The figure which shows the various examples of a user exclusive palette. The figure which shows the various examples of a user exclusive palette. The figure which shows the various examples of a user exclusive palette. The figure which shows the various examples of a user exclusive palette. The flowchart which shows the flow of the edit material image generation process of this Embodiment. An example of the graffiti editing screen of the present embodiment. 22A) to 22C are examples of images displayed during the non-contact communication possible period. FIGS. 23A and 23B are views for explaining a method of generating an original editing material image. An example of the graffiti editing screen of the present embodiment.

  Hereinafter, this embodiment will be described. In addition, this embodiment demonstrated below does not unduly limit the content of this invention described in the claim. In addition, all the configurations described in the present embodiment are not necessarily essential configuration requirements of the present invention.

1. Configuration of the imaging device
FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the appearance of the photographing apparatus PM of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the photographing apparatus PM of the present embodiment includes a price receiving unit RM, an imaging unit CM, an editing operation receiving unit EM, and a photo sticker providing unit PB.

  The price accepting unit RM shown in FIG. 1 is the first contact with the user when using the imaging apparatus PM of the present embodiment, and is for inputting a price for using the imaging apparatus PM.

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

  FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the imaging apparatus PM according to the present embodiment with the sheet ST removed, such that the front surface of the imaging unit CM is right front. As shown in FIG. 2, a camera CR that captures an image of a user located in the imaging area CA is provided at the upper front of the imaging unit CM. The camera CR can be realized by, for example, a CCD camera, a C-MOS camera, or a video camera. The camera CR captures a subject from the front direction and functions as an imaging unit.

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

  In addition, an imaging monitor CMN (an example of a display unit) that displays an image captured by the camera CR to a user located in the imaging area CA is provided in the front middle part of the imaging unit CM. In the present embodiment, when the camera CR starts capturing an image, the imaging monitor CMN displays the user's image located in the imaging area CA as a real-time moving image. As a result, the user can confirm the user's image captured by the camera CR on the imaging monitor CMN. The imaging monitor CMN is attached to the housing so that the display screen faces the user at a height looking down from the user's viewpoint. The video imaged by the camera CR is displayed on the imaging monitor CMN, and the user can check whether or not his / her pose is appropriate by viewing the video image displayed on the imaging monitor CMN.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  As shown in FIG. 3, non-contact communication units FT1 and FT2 (not shown) are provided above the editing monitor EMN of the first editing operation receiving unit EM1 and the second editing operation receiving unit EM2. . The non-contact communication units FT1 and FT2 (not shown) transmit carriers to an IC chip for non-contact communication (for example, a non-contact type IC card) built in a portable information communication device (for example, a mobile phone) by electromagnetic induction. It consists of a reader / writer that supplies power and communicates with the IC chip for non-contact communication by modulating the carrier. The reader / writer and the IC chip for non-contact communication communicate with each other by radio waves of 13.56 MHz, and bidirectional communication of 100 to 400 kbps is possible at a very short distance of about 10 cm.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the photographing apparatus of the present embodiment. Note that the image capturing apparatus 200 (the image capturing apparatus PM in FIGS. 1 to 3) does not have to include all of the components (respective parts) in FIG. 4, and may have a configuration in which some of them are omitted.

  The photographing unit 298 is for photographing a subject and can be realized by, for example, a CCD camera, a CMOS camera, or a video camera.

  The operation unit 260 (pointing device, lever, button, etc.) is used by the user to select and edit the editing content selection menu.

  The storage unit 270 (RAM) is a work area such as the processing unit 210 and the communication unit 296.

  An information storage medium 280 (a medium readable by a computer such as a CD, DVD, HDD, or ROM) stores programs, data, and the like. The information storage medium 180 stores a program for causing a computer to function as each unit of the present embodiment (a program for causing a computer to execute processing of each unit).

  The display 290 displays an image, such as the photographing monitor CMN and the editing monitor EMN shown in FIG.

  The photographing monitor CMN uses, for example, a touch panel, and inputs various instructions (for example, selection of a collage background, selection of a photographing mode, etc.) when a user touches an input button displayed on the display with a finger. It is configured to be able to do.

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

  The sound output unit 292 outputs sounds such as sounds and game sounds.

  The portable information storage device 294 stores personal data of users, save data for editing, and the like.

  The photographing apparatus 200 according to the present embodiment includes a printing unit 295, and performs processing for printing an image photographed by the printing unit 295 on a print medium (seal paper, photographic paper, plastic plate, or recording layer). In this case, there are various printing methods such as a sublimation type, a thermal transfer type, an ink jet method, and a laser printing method. As a printer for printing, an ink jet printer, a laser printer, a sublimation printer, a thermal transfer printer, a melt printer, a thermal printer, a photographic paper printer, an instant film printer, or the like may be used.

  The processing unit 210 (processor), based on operation data from the operation unit 260, a program, and the like, performs various types of operations such as shooting control processing, shooting image editing processing, display display control processing, image generation processing, and sound generation processing. Process. In this case, the processing unit 210 performs various processes using the main storage unit 272 in the storage unit 270 as a work area. The function of the processing unit 210 can be realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.) or ASIC (gate array, etc.) and a program (game program).

  The processing unit 210 includes an access information acquisition processing unit 212, a user information acquisition processing unit 214, an editing material image generation unit 216, an editing processing unit 220, an image generation unit 230, and a sound generation unit 240.

  The user information acquisition processing unit 214 receives user information stored in the external storage device and acquires user information. The editing material image generation unit 216 generates an original editing material image corresponding to the user based on the acquired user information. The editing processing unit 220 provides an original editing material image as an editing material, and edits the captured image or an image generated based on the captured image using the original editing material image based on input information. Process.

  The external storage device may be configured by a server. The access information acquisition processing unit 212 may acquire access information associated with user information stored in the server.

  The user information acquisition processing unit 214 requests the server to transmit user information stored in association with the access information via the network, receives response information corresponding to the transmission request, User information included in the response information may be acquired.

  The editing processing unit 220 may group the original editing material images for each user and provide them as a user-specific editing material group.

  The editing processing unit 220 extracts an editing material image related to the user based on user information from the editing material image prepared in advance, and provides the extracted editing material image included in the editing material group for each user. May be.

  In addition, the editing material image generation unit 216 may generate original editing material images corresponding to a plurality of users based on the user information of the plurality of users when the user information of the plurality of users is acquired.

  In addition, when the user information of a plurality of users is acquired, the editing processing unit 220 may provide the original editing material image group of a given user to other users as editing material.

  The user information may include past play history information related to the user, and the editing material image generation unit 216 may provide an editing material image corresponding to the play history based on the use history information.

  The user information includes text information in which one or more texts are arranged, and the editing material image generation unit 216 determines each text of the text information included in the user information from image information corresponding to each text prepared in advance. May be extracted, and an original editing material image corresponding to the user information may be generated based on the extracted image information.

  The image generation unit 230 generates an image based on the result of shooting or editing, and outputs the image to the display 290.

  The sound generation unit 240 performs sound processing based on the results of various processes performed by the processing unit 210, generates game sounds such as BGM, sound effects, or sounds, and outputs the game sounds to the sound output unit 292.

  The communication unit 296 performs processing for transmitting or receiving data via a network such as the Internet. More specifically, the communication unit 296 transmits data generated from the captured image of the camera to an external server or the like via the network. In this way, the user (subject) can download image data of the subject himself / herself from the server to the personal computer of his / her home. Based on the downloaded image data, it is possible to print and output an image on paper or a sticker using a printer at home. It is also possible to store an image captured by the user in a server, download it to the image capturing apparatus, print it, and output it. The communication unit 296 transmits / receives information to / from an external server via a network and receives user information and the like. The function of the communication unit 296 can be realized by hardware such as a communication device (IC), a communication program, or the like. Note that either the printing unit 295 or the communication unit 296 may be omitted.

  The non-contact communication unit 297 (FT1 in FIG. 3) performs non-contact communication with a non-contact communication IC chip built in the portable information communication device, and includes hardware such as an antenna and a reader / writer.

  Note that the photographing apparatus of the present embodiment may be a fixed housing or a portable device. Further, the subject photographed by the photographing apparatus of the present embodiment is not limited to a human being. Further, the photographing apparatus of the present embodiment can be used for a photographing apparatus that uses a user's photographed image for a game. That is, the photographing apparatus according to the present embodiment can be made to function as an image capturing apparatus such as a game apparatus.

2. Network System FIG. 5 shows a network system of this embodiment. The network system 1 according to the present embodiment includes an imaging device 200 and a server 100 connected via a network 10. The transmission path of the network 10 may include a wireless transmission path or may be connected by a wired transmission path. Further, a general line may be used or a dedicated line may be used.

  The server 100 includes a communication device 110 that is connected to an Internet line or the like and transmits / receives data, a host computer 120 such as a workstation, and a database 150. The server 100 has a Web (World Wide Web) server function and a mail server function. Has set up a website that is compatible with the World Wide Web (WWW).

  The communication device 110 is configured by a modem, a terminal adapter, a router, or the like, and communicates with other servers, the imaging device 200, and the portable information communication device 30 via a communication line such as a telephone line, an ISDN line, or a dedicated line. Send and receive data.

  The imaging device 200 is configured to be able to communicate with the server 100 via the network 10. The photographing apparatus 200 is configured to be capable of non-contact communication with the non-contact communication IC chip 32 built in the portable information communication device 30.

  The portable information communication device 30 is a device that can be connected to the server 100 via a network such as the Internet (WAN) or a LAN, and includes a non-contact communication IC chip 32 and performs non-contact communication with the imaging device 200. It is an information device that can be configured. For example, it is an information communication device such as a mobile phone (including a PHS terminal), a personal computer (PC), a personal digital assistant (PDA, etc.), a portable game machine, and an image generating device. Note that the communication line between the portable information communication device 30 and the server 100 may be wired or wireless.

  The IC chip 32 for non-contact communication is an IC chip equipped with a non-contact type IC card technology system, transmits a carrier from a reader / writer, supplies power to the IC chip by electromagnetic induction, and reads the reader by modulating the carrier.・ Communication between the writer and the IC chip.

  The portable information communication device 30 includes a web browser capable of browsing a web page, and can refer to the web page provided by the server 100.

  The user may be able to register user information by accessing from a portable information communication device 30 to a Web site or the like that publishes an image or the like captured by the imaging device 200 established by the server 100.

3. Server of Network System FIG. 6 is an example of a functional block diagram of the server 100 of the network system of this embodiment. Note that the functions of the server 100 of the network system described below may be physically distributed and executed by a plurality of computers.

  The network system server 100 includes a host computer 120 and a database 150.

  The host computer 120 includes a processing unit 130, a storage unit 122, an information storage medium 126, and a transmission / reception unit 124.

  The transmission / reception unit 124 exchanges data with the photographing apparatus 200, the portable information communication device 30, and the database 150, and has both a transmission function and a reception function. It may be realized.

  The storage unit 122 serves as a work area for the processing unit 130, the transmission / reception unit 124, and the like, and its functions are realized by hardware such as a RAM.

  Based on the received processing request, the processing unit 130 determines which terminal has transmitted the transmission request, what kind of distribution request, and the like, and performs various types of processing. , A processor such as a DSP or an ASIC such as a gate array) and a program (game program, firmware, or the like). However, all the functions of the processing unit 100 may be realized by hardware. All of them may be realized by a program.

  The processing unit 130 also performs processing for generating content and image information for displaying a homepage image on each terminal based on processing request information from each terminal. The image information is generated by a file described in a content description language such as an HTML file so that a Web page can be displayed on each terminal.

  The processing unit 130 may generate only the content and transmit it to the user's portable information communication device 30, and the user's portable information communication device 30 may generate an image using, for example, a Java applet. The content described in XML in 130 may be generated and transmitted to the user's portable information communication device 30, and the user's portable information communication device 30 may generate an image.

  Further, the processing unit 130 performs various processes such as updating an image on the home page based on various processing requests.

  The processing unit 130 includes a correspondence information generation processing unit 132, a user information providing unit 133, a user information registration processing unit 134, and an image information browsing control processing unit 135.

  When there is an access to a predetermined URL in association with access information (for example, ID for contactless communication), the correspondence information generation processing unit 132 acquires the device ID of the access source portable communication device acquired by the access. Correspondence information for associating the device ID with access information (non-contact communication ID) corresponding to the URL may be generated.

  Upon receiving the user information transmission request from the photographing apparatus via the network, the user information providing unit 133 requests response information including the corresponding user information via the network if the corresponding user information exists. Transmit to the original imaging device. When the corresponding user information is registered in association with the device ID, the access information is associated with the device ID based on the correspondence information, and is registered in association with the device ID corresponding to the access information. User information may be searched.

  The user information registration processing unit 134 provides a user information input form on the Web site, and performs processing for registering user information in the user information storage unit based on input information from the user information input form.

  Based on the image information registered in association with the device ID, the image information browsing control processing unit 135 generates a user-specific Web page that allows browsing of content corresponding to the image information for each user. Is controlled to browse on the Web.

  An information storage medium (storage medium usable by a computer) 126 stores information such as programs and data, and functions thereof are an optical disk (CD, DVD), a magneto-optical disk (MO), a magnetic disk, and a hard disk. It can be realized by hardware such as a magnetic tape or a memory (ROM).

  The processing unit 130 performs various processes of the present invention (this embodiment) based on information stored in the information storage medium 180. That is, the information storage medium 126 stores information (program or data) for executing the means of the present invention (this embodiment) (particularly, the blocks included in the processing unit 110).

  The other functions described above can also be realized by reading information from the information storage medium 126.

  The program, data, and the like stored in the information recording medium 126 may be partially or entirely received via a transmission medium such as a network line. That is, the host computer 120 receives not only the information storage medium 126 but, for example, a program, data, etc. in the form of (embodied) embodied in a carrier wave from a predetermined host terminal device or the like via a network. It is also possible to realize the function.

  The database 150 includes a transmission / reception unit 152 that transmits and receives data to and from the host computer 120 and an information storage medium 160. The information storage medium 160 stores image data (image information photographed and edited by the photographing apparatus) 162, user information 164, and the like, and functions as a user information storage unit.

  The information storage unit 160 is a CPU-readable storage medium such as a magnetic or optical recording medium or a semiconductor memory, and is realized by, for example, a RAM, a hard disk (magnetic disk), a flexible disk, a CD-ROM, or the like.

4). Data exchange between the imaging device, server, and portable information communication device
FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining exchange of data among the imaging device 200, the server 100, and the portable information communication device.

  Here, the image data of the image captured by the image capturing apparatus 200 or the image edited on the image is stored in the My Page 310 (site where user images can be registered) on the Web site 300 established by the server 100 (set for each user). In the following description, an example of registering in a web page) and browsing with a mobile phone (an example of a portable information communication device) will be described.

  The My Page 310 on the Web may be a Web page that can be viewed with an Internet browser (full browser) that can display general Internet Web content created for a personal computer, or can be viewed with a browser such as a mobile phone. Although a Web page may be used, it is assumed here that a Web page that can be referred to by a mobile phone is also created. The user can access the My Page on the Web and register user information.

  The mobile phones K1 to K3 include an IC chip for non-contact communication, and are configured to be capable of non-contact communication with the non-contact communication unit 297 of the photographing apparatus 200.

  Here, it is assumed that Y1 to Y3 among the users Y1 to Y4 who take pictures have mobile phones K1 to K3 with built-in IC chips for non-contact communication, and the user Y4 does not. The mobile phones K1 to K3 have device IDs (mobile IDs that can be charged corresponding to mobile phone numbers) d1 to d3. The device ID is notified to the server when accessed on the Web.

  Further, non-contact communication IDs c1 to c3 are stored in the non-contact communication IC chip built in the mobile phones K1 to K3. The ID for non-contact communication is notified to the photographing apparatus 200 by non-contact communication.

  The users Y1 to Y4 start the game by inserting coins (credits), and perform shooting with the shooting unit 298 of the shooting apparatus 200 (t1).

  When the game is started, the photographing apparatus 200 creates a game ID (a), and uses the game ID (a) and the image data (b) of the photographed image or an edited image as the game ID (a). The information is transmitted to the server 100 via the network in association (t2).

  The server 100 associates the image data received from the imaging device with the game ID and temporarily saves it in the storage unit (t3).

  The users Y1 to Y3 photograph the mobile phones K1 to K3 with a built-in IC chip for non-contact communication at any time point from the start to the end of photographing (or any time point within the expiration date of the credit for photographing). An operation of holding or touching the non-contact communication unit 297 of the device 200 (hereinafter referred to as “touch operation”) is performed (t4). By this touch operation, the non-contact communication ID stored in the non-contact communication IC chip is transmitted to the photographing apparatus 200 by non-contact communication.

  For example, a touch operation (t4) may be performed on the captured image (captured image) before performing the editing process.

  When receiving the non-contact communication ID by non-contact communication, the image capturing apparatus 200 is URL information (information for accessing a user-specific URL based on the non-contact communication ID, such as a link address to the Web page of the server, (E-mail address to the server) is generated and transmitted to the mobile phone with a built-in IC chip for non-contact communication by non-contact communication (t5). For example, a command for displaying an image notifying the URL of the Web page for each user by starting a browser of a mobile phone may be transmitted. In response to this, an image of the URL of the Web page for each user is displayed on the mobile phone image. Since the above process is necessary for associating the user ID and the non-contact communication ID in the server, it is performed only when the user plays for the first time (including the case where the user does not register the nickname). It may be.

  In addition, the photographing apparatus 200 transmits the non-contact communication ID (c) and the game ID (a) received by non-contact communication to the server (t6). When a plurality of users perform touch operations, a plurality of non-contact communication IDs (c) obtained by the plurality of touch operations are transmitted together with the game ID (a). Note that the shooting date and time information and other information accompanying the game may be transmitted together.

  The server 100 associates the image data temporarily stored in the storage unit with the non-contact communication ID based on the game ID (a) and the non-contact communication ID (c) received from the imaging device (t7). .

  The users Y1 to Y3 can access the URL (URL unique to the user) indicated by the URL information notified from the game device by the mobile phone with a built-in IC chip for non-contact communication (t8). Along with this access, the server is also notified of device IDs (mobile IDs assigned corresponding to the telephone numbers of the mobile phones) d1 to d3.

  The URL unique to the user may be the URL of the user's My Page at the site on the Web. The URL unique to the user may be an address including an identification ID derived uniquely from the contactless communication ID itself or the contactless communication ID.

  Upon receiving access to the URL unique to the user, the server 100 generates correspondence information for associating the non-contact communication ID corresponding to the URL with the device ID notified along with the access (t9).

  When the contactless communication ID is received, it is determined whether or not there is correspondence information between the contactless communication ID and the device ID. If the correspondence information is already present, the correspondence information generation process is omitted. Also good.

  The server 100 registers the image data temporarily stored in the storage unit in the database in association with the device ID associated with the contactless communication ID based on the correspondence information (t10). When necessary information is read from the database, a web page for each user capable of browsing content corresponding to each user's image information (captured image) is generated, and the URL of the user's My Page 310 is accessed The user's My Page 310 is controlled to be viewed on a mobile phone or the like.

  User information can be registered in the database of the server 100 in association with the device ID. The user information can be registered from the photographing apparatus (t15), or can be registered from a mobile phone or the like.

  The imaging device 200 is stored in association with the non-contact communication ID (access information) received by the touch operation when the non-contact communication ID (c) and the game ID (a) are transmitted to the server 100 (t6). The user information transmission request may be made.

  Since the server 100 manages user information by the device ID, when the server 100 does not associate the device ID with the non-contact communication ID (access information) (when the correspondence information is not generated). Cannot acquire user information as response information to the transmission request. That is, the photographing apparatus 200 can determine whether user information is registered based on response information to the transmission request.

  When the server 100 has correspondence information corresponding to the non-contact communication ID (access information), the imaging apparatus 200 receives the response information transmitted in response to the transmission request and acquires user information (t15). ). Then, based on the acquired user information, an original editing material image corresponding to the user is generated (in real time), the original editing material image is provided as editing material, and the original editing material image is input based on the input information. Perform the editing process used.

  If there is no correspondence information corresponding to the non-contact communication ID (access information) in the server 100, the imaging apparatus accepts input of user information, assuming that user information is not registered.

  The user Y4 who does not have a mobile phone can receive the sticker 370 on which the image data is printed from the printing unit 296 of the photographing apparatus 200 (t11). The QR code 372 is printed on the sticker 370, and the user Y4 can read the QR code and access the site 300 of the server 100 (t12). The QR code is generated corresponding to the game ID.

  Further, the user Y5 who has not participated in the game this time can access the site 300 of the server 100 (t14) by receiving notification of the URL of the server from the user Y1 or the like (t13).

  FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining an example of the processing flow of the photographing apparatus, the server, and the user (including processing of a portable information communication device such as a mobile phone).

  First, the user (or a plurality of users) Y1 inserts coins into the photographing apparatus 200 (step S10-Y). When a coin is inserted, the imaging device 200 shifts from the attract mode to the game mode and starts the game (step S10-G).

  When the user Y1 performs an operation for photographing (step S20-Y), the photographing apparatus 200 performs a photographing process (S20-G). Specifically, a process is performed in which a captured image is taken in, a subject image is extracted by a chroma key process or the like, and synthesized with a given background image to generate an image for editing. The photographing apparatus 200 generates a game ID and transmits it to the server (step S22-G). The game ID is generated for each game and becomes a unique alphabetic character, numeral, or alphanumeric character string for each game. For example, it may be generated based on the identification number assigned to the photographing apparatus 200 and the current time (year / month / day / hour / minute / second). Receiving the game ID, the server 100 stores the game ID in the storage unit (step S22-S).

  When the user Y1 who has finished photographing moves to the graffiti corner and presses the touch operation start button (step S30-Y), the photographing apparatus 200 starts non-contact communication (step S30-G). The photographing apparatus 200 may display a “touch screen” image as shown in FIG. 22A on the editing screen to prompt the user to perform a touch operation, for example.

  When the user performs a touch operation using a portable information communication device such as a mobile phone (step S40-Y), the imaging device 200 is stored in a non-contact communication IC chip built in the portable information communication device. Receiving the contactless communication ID and generating URL information (information for accessing the URL unique to the user, link address to the server's Web page and mail address to the server) based on the contactless communication ID Then, it is transmitted to the portable information communication device with a built-in IC chip for non-contact communication by non-contact communication (step S40-G). For example, as URL information, a mail activation command for displaying an inquiry mail transmission screen to the server on the portable information communication device may be transmitted by non-contact communication. A corresponding inquiry mail activation command is transmitted according to the carrier of the cellular phone portable information communication device. In any case, in the portable information communication device, the mailer is activated and an inquiry mail is generated. This inquiry e-mail is an inquiry e-mail for obtaining a URL unique to the user, and is an e-mail that describes the contactless communication ID and is addressed to the e-mail address 520 of the server. The game ID may also be described.

  When the inquiry mail transmission image is displayed on the portable information communication device, the inquiry mail may be transmitted to the server by the user selecting and executing “Send empty mail” or the like.

  The imaging device 200 transmits the information to the server 100 in association with the non-contact communication ID and the game ID received by non-contact communication (step S42-G). When the non-contact communication ID and the game ID are transmitted to the server 100, the imaging apparatus 200 makes a transmission request for user information stored in association with the non-contact communication ID (access information) received by the touch operation. May be.

  The server 100 searches for user information stored in the storage unit based on the non-contact communication ID received from the imaging device 200 (step S42-S). In addition, since the user information stored in the storage unit is registered in association with the device ID, if the correspondence information of the device ID with respect to the non-contact communication ID (access information) has already been generated, Based on the correspondence information, the user information registered in association with the device ID for the contactless communication ID (access information) is searched.

  The non-contact communicable period is from when the start button is pressed until the end button is pressed or until the remaining time of the time limit for the non-contact communicable period becomes zero. In the meantime, the imaging device 200 repeatedly receives touch operations. For example, when the touch operation is performed and the non-contact communication is successful, an image as shown in FIG. 22B is displayed, and when the “next person touch” button 620 is touched, the next non-contact input is accepted. May be. When the “touch end” button 630 is touched with an image as shown in FIG. 22B, a confirmation screen image as shown in FIG. 22C is displayed, and whether the “high” button 640 is touched. When the remaining time becomes 0 (step S44-Y), the non-contact communication is terminated (step S44-G).

  If the correspondence information corresponding to the non-contact communication ID (access information) already exists in the server 100, the response information is registered in association with the device ID corresponding to the non-contact communication ID (access information). The response information including the user information is transmitted to the imaging apparatus 200, and when the correspondence information does not exist, the response information indicating that there is no corresponding user information is transmitted. (Step S46-S).

  If there is a user whose user information could not be acquired, the imaging apparatus 200 provides a user information registration screen to accept user information, and the user Y1 registers user information from the user information registration screen (step S46-). Y).

  The imaging apparatus 200 generates (in real time) an original editing material image corresponding to the user based on the user information acquired from the response information or the input information from the user information registration screen (step S46-G).

  When receiving the user information from the user information registration screen, the imaging device 200 transmits the user information to the server in association with the non-contact communication ID (access information) (step S48-G), and the user is sent from the imaging device to the user. The server 100 that has received the information temporarily stores the user information in association with the non-contact communication ID (access information) (steps S48-S). After the correspondence information between the non-contact communication ID (access information) and the device ID is generated, the user information is registered in the database in association with the device ID based on the correspondence information.

  The user Y1 who has finished the touch operation or the user information input operation performs graffiti input (step S50-Y). The photographing apparatus 200 performs a graffiti editing process based on the graffiti input (step S50-G). Here, the graffiti input is an input in which the user Y1 doodles or presses a stamp on the image to be edited displayed on the editing screen with a touch pen or the like. This is a process of editing an image that reflects graffiti input.

  If the image can be selected in the My Page on the Web, the user Y1 inputs image selection information when the graffiti ends (Step S60-Y). The image capturing apparatus 200 that has received the image selection input transmits image data of all images (images after editing if edited) and image selection information together with the game ID and non-contact communication ID ( Step S60-G).

  When the correspondence information between the non-contact communication ID and the device ID does not exist, the server 100 temporarily stores the received layer data in association with the non-contact communication ID. The data is associated with the listening ID and registered in the database (step S60-S). When temporarily stored in association with the non-contact communication ID, after the correspondence information between the non-contact communication ID (access information) and the device ID is generated, the image data is associated with the device ID based on the correspondence information. Is registered in the database.

  The photographing apparatus 200 discharges the sticker generated based on the edited image to the receiving port (step S70-G), and the user Y1 receives the sticker (step S70-Y).

  Further, when the user Y1 transmits an inquiry mail on the inquiry mail transmission screen activated by the touch operation of non-contact communication (step S80-Y), the server creates a URL notification mail (step S80-S). The URL notification mail describes a URL unique to the user. The URL to be notified is a URL unique to the user, and may be a URL generated based on the non-contact communication ID described in the inquiry mail. The URL unique to the user may be, for example, the URL of the user's My Page on the Web site operated by the server. The URL unique to the user may be an address including an identification ID derived uniquely from the contactless communication ID itself or the contactless communication ID.

  When the server transmits the URL notification mail (step S82-S), the portable information communication device of the user Y1 receives the URL notification mail (step S82-Y). When the user accesses the URL (site) unique to the user described in the URL notification mail (step S90-Y), the device ID (corresponding to the telephone number of the portable information communication device) is given along with the access. Is also notified to the server.

  Upon receiving access to the URL unique to the user, the server generates correspondence information for associating the non-contact communication ID corresponding to the URL with the device ID notified along with the access (step S90-S). ). Based on the correspondence information, the image data and the user information are registered in the database in association with the device ID.

5. User information
9A and 9B are diagrams for describing user information.

  In the server database, user information 400 is registered in association with access information (for example, device ID) 440. The access information is an ID or URL that can be used to access user information stored in the server, an ID or URL that is used for access, and is, for example, a non-contact communication type IC card possessed by the user. It may be a contact communication ID, a device ID used for billing management of a mobile phone or the like, an address in a user information storage area of a server, a URL of a Web page where user information can be browsed, and the like.

  FIG. 9A shows an example in which the user information of the user A (nickname is Kumikki) is registered in association with “Y0001” 440-1 which is the access information 440 of the user A. 9 (B) shows an example in which user information of user B (nickname Marimo) is registered in association with “Y0002” 440-2 which is access information 440 of user B.

  The user information 400 includes a hiragana nickname 402 and additional profile information. Additional profile information includes a Romanized nickname 404, date of birth 406, sex 408, blood type 410, age 412, constellation 414, friend information 416, play history information 418, and the like.

  Hiragana nickname 402, romanized nickname 404, date of birth 406, sex 408, blood type 410, etc. store information entered in the user information registration, and age 412 may be information automatically determined from date of birth 406. . The constellation 414 may also be information automatically determined from the date of birth.

  The friend information 416 may be registered by the system automatically determining specific information (for example, access information) of friends who played together. In addition, the input regarding the relationship (for example, a best friend, a couple, etc.) with a friend may be received at the time of play, and you may make it register as user information with friend information. Moreover, based on the information of the sex of the friend registered as friend information and the sex of the user, it may be determined that the friend and the user are the same sex, and that the friend and the opposite sex are a couple.

  Further, the play history information 418 may be registered by the system determining stamp specifying information of a stamp that is frequently used in past play, for example. In addition, as the play history information 418, the number of past plays or the like may be registered, or the past play date or the like may be registered.

  In addition to the above, various types of information such as favorite foods and favorite animals may be received by user information registration and registered as user information.

6). Register user information
User information can be registered in the server from an imaging device, a portable information communication device, or a personal computer.

  The photographing apparatus is configured to accept input of user information (such as a nickname and profile) after performing a touch operation after completion of photographing and before graffiti processing. The user information (nickname, profile, etc.) input screen is displayed on an editing monitor (EMN in FIG. 2) for editing.

  The touch operation is an operation for performing non-contact communication between the user's portable information communication device and the photographing device, whereby the photographing device is connected to the non-contact communication IC incorporated in the user's portable information communication device. The contact communication ID (access information) is acquired. Then, the photographing apparatus inquires of the server whether or not user information associated with the non-contact communication ID (access information) is registered. In the imaging apparatus, when user information is not registered (first case: first time) according to an inquiry result (registration status to the server), when only a nickname is registered as user information (second case) : Second time), when the nickname and at least one profile information are stored as user information (third case: after the third time), the user information registration acceptance process and user An original editing material image corresponding to the above is generated.

  FIG. 12 is an example of a hiragana nickname registration screen. From this screen, nickname registration of two users is possible. FIGS. 10A and 10B and FIGS. 11A and 11B are examples of original editing material images of users A and B. FIG. FIG. 13 is an example of a user (nickname) selection screen, and FIGS. 14 and 15 are examples of an additional profile screen (FIG. 14 is a Roman character nickname registration screen and FIG. 15 is an attribute input screen).

  The first case is, for example, when the user's first game or when the user information is not registered in the server. In such a case, the photographing apparatus displays a nickname registration screen as shown in FIG. The input of Hiragana nickname 402-1 of A and Hiragana nickname 402-2 of user B is accepted. Then, based on the accepted hiragana nicknames 402-1 and 402-2, generation of original editing material images (4222-1 in FIG. 10A and 422-2 in FIG. 10B) corresponding to the hiragana nicknames is generated. At the same time, the received hiragana nickname is transmitted to the dedicated site of the server in association with the non-contact communication ID. The hiragana nickname may be temporarily stored in the server in association with the contactless communication ID, and after the correspondence information between the device ID and the contactless communication ID is generated, it may be registered as user information in association with the device ID.

  When registered as user information (here hiragana nickname) in association with the device ID, when a touch operation is performed during the next play, the registered user information (here hiragana nickname) is downloaded and the downloaded contents Based on the above, an editing material image corresponding to user information (here, hiragana nickname) is automatically generated.

  The second case is, for example, when the user plays the second game or when the hiragana nickname information registered for the first time is registered in the server. In such a case, the imaging apparatus accepts registration of additional profile information. That is, when a touch operation is performed, a user (nickname) selection screen as shown in FIG. 13 is displayed, and when the user selects his / her nickname, an additional profile input screen as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 is displayed. . First, a Roman character nickname registration screen as shown in FIG. 14 is displayed, and a Roman character nickname input is accepted. Next, an attribute input screen as shown in FIG. 15 is displayed, and input of user attribute information such as gender 454, birthday 454, blood type 456, etc. is accepted.

  Then, based on the received Roman nicknames 404-1 and 404-2, generation of original editing material images (424-1 in FIG. 10A and 424-2 in FIG. 10B) corresponding to the Roman nicknames is generated. At the same time, the accepted Roman nickname is transmitted to the dedicated site of the server in association with the non-contact communication ID. The Romaji nickname is registered as user information in association with the device ID based on the correspondence information between the device ID and the contactless communication ID.

  In addition, based on the received birth dates 406-1 and 406-2, genders 408-1 and 408-2, blood types 410-1 and 410-2, original editing material images corresponding to the blood types and constellations (see FIG. 10 (A) 426-1, 428-1 and FIG. 10 (B) 444-2, 428-2), and the date of birth, sex, and blood type received are IDs for non-contact communication ( Access information) and sent to a dedicated site on the server. The accepted date of birth, gender, and blood type are registered as user information in association with the device ID based on the correspondence information between the device ID and the non-contact communication ID.

  If it is registered as user information (here romanized nickname, date of birth, gender, blood type) in association with the device ID, when a touch operation is performed at the next play, the registered user information (here romanized nickname) , Date of birth, gender, blood type), and based on the downloaded content, automatically generates a material image for editing corresponding to the user information (here romanized nickname, date of birth, gender, blood type) Is done.

  In this way, the photographing apparatus generates an original editing material image based on the input user information or the user information downloaded from the server until the graffiti process is started.

  A transition example of the user information input screen when two users input user information will be described. When both players play for the first time, or when neither of them has entered a nickname (kana) (in the first case), the screen changes to a nickname input (kana) screen before the graffiti starts. If a nickname is entered here, no additional profile entry is made and user registration is terminated. By not performing additional profile input at the time of initial registration, it is possible to prevent a situation where too much time is taken for user information registration.

  Also, if one of the players plays for the second time or later, or if both of them play for the second time or later, the screen transitions to the user (nickname) selection screen in FIG. 13 before the graffiti is started. When one of the players plays for the first time, “Non-registered” may be displayed in the displayed nickname column. Then, registration is started from an unregistered portion of each user. The user of the first play may end the user information input when the nickname registration ends, and the second and subsequent users may end the user information input when the additional profile registration ends. In both cases, the user information input may be terminated when the additional profile registration is terminated.

  If both have registered the additional profile input screen (if additional profile information has been downloaded from the server), the screen will transition to the user (nickname) selection screen of FIG. 13 and graffiti will begin. You may do it.

7). Editing Material Image FIGS. 23A and 23B are diagrams for explaining a method for generating an original editing material image.

  As shown in FIG. 23A, the photographing apparatus has a material image group 250 prepared in advance corresponding to each kana character (text information). For example, a material image 252 corresponding to the kana character “A”, a material image 254 corresponding to the kana character “I”, and the like are included. As the material image, a plurality of images having different designs for one kana character may be prepared.

  Nickname (kana) 260 which is user information is given as text string information. For example, when the nickname is “Kumikki”, it is given as text information 261, 262, 263, 264, 265 for each of the five kana characters “ku”, “mi”, “tsu”, “ki”, and “-”. It is done. The imaging apparatus selects the material images 271, 272, 273, 274, 275 corresponding to the text information 261, 262, 263, 264, and 265 for each kana character, arranges them in line with the nicknames, and arranges the background material image 280 And the original editing material image 290 may be generated.

  The blood type stamp or constellation stamp in FIG. 10 is obtained from user information (blood) from among stamp images corresponding to each blood type A, B, O, AB prepared in advance or 12 constellation stamp images prepared in advance. The corresponding stamp image may be selected based on the type and date of birth.

8). User-specific palettes 422-1, 422-2, 424-1, and 424-2 in FIGS. 10A and 10B are generated original editing material images generated in real time based on user information. 10A and 10B, reference numerals 426-1, 426-2, 428-1, and 428-2 denote editing materials related to the user based on the user information of the user from the editing material images prepared in advance. It is an image extracted as an image.

  In the present embodiment, user-specific palettes 430-1 and 430-2 are provided for each user, and the editing material image and original editing material extracted for each user in the user-specific palettes 430-1 and 430-2 of each user. You may provide images.

  That is, as shown in FIG. 10A, the user-specific palette 430-1 for the user A includes the original editing material images 422-1 and 424-1 generated based on the user information of the user A, and the user A's user. The editing material images 426-1 and 428-1 extracted based on the information may be stored. As shown in FIG. 10B, the user B's dedicated palette 430-2 includes original editing material images 422-2, 424-2 generated based on the user B user information, and the user B user. The editing material images 426-2 and 428-2 extracted based on the information may be stored.

  FIGS. 11A and 11B are examples of original editing material images corresponding to a plurality of users. All show examples of material images extracted according to friendships of a plurality of users (here, two people). FIG. 11A shows a stamp image group indicating a best friend, which is extracted when the friend relationship indicated by the user information is “best friend” and is provided in a user-specific palette. FIG. 11B shows a stamp image group indicating a couple, which is extracted when the friend relationship indicated by the user information is “couple” and is provided in a user-specific palette. The friend relationship indicated by the user information is determined based on the friend relationship registration information when the friend relationship itself is registered as the user information. When the friend relationship is not registered as the user information of the friend relationship itself, the friend relationship is indicated. Based on the information of the sex of the friend registered as information and the sex of the user, it may be determined that it is a close friend if it is the same sex and a couple if it is the opposite sex.

  The original editing material image corresponding to a plurality of users may be an editing material image (stamp image or background image material image) containing names (nicknames) of a plurality of users, for example.

9. Graffiti Edit Screen FIG. 21 shows an example of the graffiti edit screen of the present embodiment.

  The image editing screen 500 of the present embodiment includes a first image editing area 510-1 in which the first user performs graffiti editing, an editing content selection area 520-1 instructed by the first user, and a second user. Includes a second image editing area 510-2 for editing graffiti, an editing content selection area 520-2 instructed by the second user, a function selection button area 530 that can be instructed by both users, and an editing image selection area 540. Including.

  The graffiti editing screen 500 is in a touch panel format, and each item of the menu (selection buttons for the editing content selection areas 520-1 and 520-2 and selection buttons for the function selection button area 530 and editing with a pointing device such as a touch pen) Acquisition image in the image selection area).

  When each user selects one acquired image from the acquired images displayed in the editing image selection area (the captured image captured by the capturing unit, or the image obtained by combining the captured image with a given background), each user The selected acquired image is displayed in each user's image editing area 510-1, 510-2.

  When one of the function selection buttons displayed in the function selection button area 530 is selected, a palette of contents (a set of contents) corresponding to the selected function is displayed in the editing content selection areas 520-1 and 520-2. The For example, when the user selects the stamp 532 with the function selection button, selectable stamp image groups are displayed in the editing content selection areas 520-1 and 520-2. The user can perform a graffiti editing operation of pasting the stamp image on the image to be edited by selecting a desired stamp image and touching the image editing areas 510-1 and 510-2 with a pointing device.

  The stamp is a function in which a stamp appears at a touched position by touching an arbitrary position of the image with a touch pen. In this embodiment, as a pallet related to the stamp, there are a plurality of pallets such as a general-purpose stamp and a dedicated stamp for each user. The general-purpose stamp may include various types of palettes such as “heart”, “star”, “flower”, “fruit”, and “others”.

  When the “stamp” function selection button 532 is selected, a general-purpose stamp palette as shown by 520-1 and 520-2 in FIG. 21 is displayed. When the “my stamp” function selection button 534 is selected, a palette of user-specific stamps is displayed as indicated by 520 ′-1 and 520 ′-2 in FIG. 24.

  16 to 19 show various examples of user-specific palettes.

  Reference numerals 450-1 and 450-2 in FIGS. 16A and 16B are user-specific palettes for the first user (Marimo) and the second user (Kumi) who are playing together. Each user's user-specific palettes 450-1 and 450-2 may be composed of a plurality of pages. For example, the user-specific palette 450-1 of the first user (Marimo) includes “your (first user“ Marimo ”) page” 452-1, “play partner (second user“ Kumi ”) page” It may be composed of a plurality of pages such as 454-1 and “two people's page” 456-1. In addition, for example, the user-specific palette 450-2 of the second user (Kumi) includes a page of “your (second user“ Kumi ”)” 452-2 and a page of “play partner (first user“ Marimo ”). "454-2", "two people's page" 456-2, and the like.

  Here, the “user's (first user“ Marimo ”) page” 452-1 of the first user and the “play partner (first user“ Marimo ”) page” 454-2 of the second user. Are the same contents and store an original editing material image generated based on the user information of the first user and an editing material image extracted based on the user information of the first user. The second user's “your (second user“ Kumi ”) page” 452-2 and the first user ’s “play partner (second user“ Kumi ”) page” 454-1 have the same content. The original editing material image generated based on the user information of the second user and the editing material image extracted based on the user information of the second user are stored. Further, the “two pages” 456-1 of the first user and the “two pages” 456-2 of the second user have the same contents, and are based on the user information of the first user and the second user. The generated original editing material image and the editing material image extracted based on the user information of the first user and the second user are stored.

  The original editing material image corresponding to a plurality of users may be an editing material image (stamp image or background image material image) containing names (nicknames) of a plurality of users, for example.

  It may also be an editing material image extracted based on the relationship among a plurality of users.

  FIGS. 17A and 17B are diagrams showing specific examples of the editing material image included in the page of the second user “Kumi”.

  FIGS. 18A and 18B are diagrams showing specific examples of the editing material images included in the “two people page”.

  FIGS. 19A and 19B are diagrams showing other specific examples of the editing material image included in the page of the second user “Kumi”.

10. Processing of the Present Embodiment FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the flow of editing material image generation processing of the present embodiment.

  Prior to the graffiti process, the imaging apparatus accepts a touch operation for non-contact communication (step S10), and acquires a non-contact communication ID (an example of access information) by non-contact communication (step S20).

  When there are a plurality of users, the processes in steps S10 and S20 are repeated until the touch operation of all users is completed. Note that the number of users who can perform a touch operation in one play may be limited to a predetermined number (for example, two people). In that case, the touch operation is accepted until the limited number of people is reached.

  When the acceptance of the touch operation ends, the server is inquired about user information corresponding to the acquired non-contact communication ID (step S40), and response information from the server is received (step S50).

  If the response information includes user information (YES in step S60), the user information corresponding to the contactless communication ID is downloaded (step S70), and the editing material image is based on the downloaded user information. Is generated or extracted (step S80).

  If the user information is not included in the response information (NO in step S60), the user information is received from the user information input screen, and an editing material image is generated or extracted based on the received user information (step S60). S90), the received user information is uploaded to the server (step S100).

  Then, the generated or extracted editing material image is provided to the palette of the graffiti screen, accepts the graffiti editing input using the editing material image, and performs image editing processing based on the accepted graffiti input (step S110).

The present invention is not limited to that described in the above embodiment, and various modifications can be made. For example, terms cited as broad or synonymous terms in the description in the specification or drawings can be replaced with broad or synonymous terms in other descriptions in the specification or drawings.
Further, for example, an editing material image corresponding to the play history may be provided based on past play history information related to the user in the user information.

  The past play history may be, for example, the number of times the photographing apparatus has been played, the use history of material images used during editing, or the like.

  The editing material image provided according to the play history may be an original editing material image generated in real time according to user information, or an editing material image extracted from an editing material image prepared in advance. Good.

  For example, the play history information 418 in FIG. 9 shows stamp specifying information of a stamp that is frequently used in the past play. Based on the play history information 418, an editing material image of a stamp corresponding to this stamp specifying information is displayed. It may be extracted and provided in a user-specific palette. In this way, the user can save the trouble of searching for a frequently used stamp image, so that a user interface that is easy to use can be provided.

  In the above embodiment, the stamp image is taken as an example of the editing material image. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a background image or the like may be used.

  In the above embodiment, the case where the photographing apparatus is a photographing apparatus has been described as an example, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the photographing device can be configured in any type such as an arcade game system, a home game system, and a portable game system, and the type of game is various such as a shooting game, a race game, a role playing game, and a puzzle game. Applicable to game systems.

  In the above embodiment, the case where the photographing apparatus has a printing function has been described as an example. However, the present invention can also be applied to a photographing apparatus that does not have a printing function.

PM imaging device, RM price receiving unit, CM imaging unit, EM editing operation receiving unit, PB photo sticker providing unit, SP speaker, RA receiving area, RMN receiving monitor, CI coin slot, RL receiving lighting unit, MR mirror MR, BT shooting transition button, CA shooting area, ST sheet, CR camera, CL shooting illumination unit, CMN shooting monitor, EA editing area, EMN editing monitor, TP touch pen, PA extraction area, PO photo sticker exit, 10 network, 30 portable information communication device, 32 non-contact communication ID, 100 server, 110 communication device 120 host computer, 122 storage unit, 124 transmission / reception unit, 126 information storage medium, 130 processing unit, 132 correspondence information generation unit, 133 User information providing unit, 134 User information registration processing unit, 1 35 image information browsing control processing unit, 150 database, 152 transmission / reception unit, 160 information storage medium, 162 image data, 164 user information, 168 database, 200 photographing device, 210 processing unit, 212, access information communication processing unit, 214 user information Acquisition processing unit, 216 editing material image generation unit, 220 editing processing unit, 230 image generation unit, 240 sound generation unit, 260 operation unit, 270 storage unit, 280 information storage medium, 290 display, 292 sound output unit, 294 mobile phone Type information storage device, 295 printing unit, 296 communication unit, 297 non-contact communication unit, 298 photographing unit

Claims (13)

An imaging device capable of communicating with an external storage device and having an editing function,
A shooting unit for shooting a subject and acquiring a shot image;
A user information acquisition processing unit for receiving user information stored in the external storage device and acquiring user information;
An editing material image generation unit that generates an original editing material image corresponding to the user based on the acquired user information;
An editing processing unit that provides an original editing material image as an editing material and performs an editing process on the captured image or an image generated based on the captured image using the original editing material image based on input information When,
An imaging apparatus comprising: In claim 1,
An access information acquisition processing unit for acquiring access information associated with user information stored in the server functioning as the external storage device;
The user information acquisition processing unit
A request for transmission of user information stored in association with the access information is made to the server via the network, response information corresponding to the transmission request is received, and user information included in the response information is acquired. An imaging apparatus characterized by: In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 2.
The edit processing unit
A photographing apparatus, wherein the original editing material images are grouped for each user and provided as a user-specific editing material group. In claim 2 or 3,
The edit processing unit
An imaging material image that extracts an editing material image related to a user based on user information from an editing material image prepared in advance and includes the extracted editing material image included in the editing material group for each user. apparatus. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 4,
The editing material image generation unit
An apparatus for generating original editing material images corresponding to a plurality of users based on user information of a plurality of users when user information of a plurality of users is acquired. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 5,
The edit processing unit
An imaging apparatus characterized in that, when user information of a plurality of users is acquired, an original editing material image group of a given user is provided to other users as editing material. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 6.
The user information includes past play history information related to the user,
The editing material image generation unit
An imaging apparatus, characterized in that an editing material image corresponding to a play history is provided based on the use history information. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 7,
The user information includes text information indicating a sequence of one or more texts,
The editing material image generation unit
Extract image information corresponding to each text of the text information included in the user information from image information corresponding to each text prepared in advance, and based on the extracted image information, an original editing material image corresponding to the user information An imaging device characterized by generating A network system including an imaging device capable of communicating with an external storage device and having an editing function, and a server,
The imaging device
A shooting unit for shooting a subject and acquiring a shot image;
An access information acquisition processing unit for acquiring access information associated with user information stored in the server;
A request for transmission of user information stored in association with the access information is made to the server via the network, response information corresponding to the transmission request is received, and user information included in the response information is acquired. A user information acquisition processing unit,
An editing material image generation unit that generates an original editing material image corresponding to the user based on the acquired user information;
An editing processing unit that provides an original editing material image as an editing material and performs an editing process on the captured image or an image generated based on the captured image using the original editing material image based on input information And including
The server
A user information storage unit in which user information is stored in association with the access information;
When the user information transmission request is received from the imaging device via the network, if the corresponding user information exists, response information including the corresponding user information is sent to the requesting imaging device via the network. A user information providing unit to transmit;
Including network systems. In claim 9,
The server
A network including a user information registration processing unit that provides a user information input form on a website and performs registration processing of user information in a user information storage unit based on input information from the user information input form system. A program for controlling a photographing device that includes a photographing unit that photographs a subject and acquires a photographed image, and that can communicate with an external storage device and has an editing function,
A user information acquisition processing unit for receiving user information stored in the external storage device and acquiring user information;
An editing material image generation unit that generates an original editing material image corresponding to the user based on the acquired user information;
An editing processing unit that provides an original editing material image as an editing material and performs an editing process on the captured image or an image generated based on the captured image using the original editing material image based on input information A program that causes a computer to function.   A computer-readable information storage medium, wherein the program according to claim 12 is stored. A method for controlling a photographing apparatus including a photographing unit that photographs a subject and obtains a photographed image, and that can communicate with an external storage device and has an editing function,
Receiving user information stored in the external storage device and acquiring user information; and
An editing material image generation step for generating an original editing material image corresponding to the user based on the acquired user information;
An editing process step of providing an original editing material image as an editing material and performing an editing process on the captured image or an image generated based on the captured image using the original editing material image based on input information When,
A control method for an imaging apparatus, comprising: