JP2012037946A - Storage device used for design manufacturing - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a storage device used for collectively manufacturing a design based on on-site information accumulated by a function of storing an image and a peripheral information of an installation site into a predetermined layer, storing an original drawing and a working condition into another layer, and calculating components of the design.SOLUTION: A storage device 100 has an input means 111 receiving information, a first storage area 113 storing an image of an installation area for which a design is manufactured, a second storage area 114 storing peripheral information of the installation area, a third storage area 115 storing a plurality of an original drawings of the design used for the installation area, and an output means 112 outputting at least one of the area, the peripheral information and the original drawing into a calculation means calculating components of the design as an operation condition.

Description

  The present invention can store the design installation location and surrounding information, design original image and material information, processing conditions, etc. for each layer, and output the stored information according to the calculation procedure to produce it at an outdoor installation location. The present invention relates to a storage device used to calculate the components of a design to be performed.

  The area of the walls of these buildings and structures has been calculated in advance when painting or signboards or posters (that is, design) are placed on the design installation locations on the walls of the buildings or structures. Is preferred. This is because if the area of the wall surface is unknown, it is unclear how much paint or material is needed and how much area of signboard or poster can be installed. If the area of the wall surface is known in advance, the efficiency of the construction of painting or installing a signboard or a poster is improved.

  In particular, in recent years, when the design is installed outdoors, there are diversification of installation locations and design requirements. In such diversification, it is not efficient for the design production staff to produce the design at the installation site. Alternatively, it is not possible for the design production staff to produce a design at a work site that is remote from the installation site without grasping the situation of the installation site.

  In addition, early prediction of design components (optimal original image, area, required amount of paint, cost, chromaticity, brightness, etc.) applied to the installation site is important when designing a design at the installation site. It is. If the components of the design are unknown when the design is produced at an outdoor installation location, there may be a problem in terms of cost due to a lack of necessary materials during the work or excess materials. Alternatively, the produced design may not be able to exhibit a sufficient design effect depending on the surrounding environment and direction of the installation location.

  Thus, when designing an outdoor installation site, it is important to be able to grasp the design components such as the installation site area, optimal original image, required amount of paint, and cost before designing. is there. In particular, it is necessary to be able to estimate these components in advance regardless of large-scale work such as surveying at the installation site.

  For example, in order to calculate the area of an outdoor installation location, it is common to perform actual measurements based on dangerous work, or to perform surveys using a reference point survey or a stereo camera.

  However, surveying by actual measurement is dangerous and has the inconvenience of requiring another surveying operation by actual measurement if the target region is changed. Work with a reference point survey or a stereo camera can only be performed on the spot where the building or building to be surveyed can be seen in addition to the increase in work time and work man-hours.

  In recent years, many businesses want to install signboards and posters in various places of buildings and buildings in various places. Rather than deciding the signboards and posters to be installed and entering the wall area survey, these companies want to review the types of signboards and posters to be installed based on the wall area. This is because the company seeks to improve the advertising effect by signboards and posters on the wall.

  In many cases, a business operator who installs such a signboard or poster wants to survey an arbitrary area on the wall surface after the installation outside the installation site. In particular, there may be a case where an area having an area where various signs and posters can be installed is arbitrarily searched for in the wall surface.

  For this reason, the technique which measures the wall surface of a building or a building using the image imaged with the imaging device is proposed (for example, refer to patent documents 1).

JP 2007-147522 A

  However, Patent Document 1 only discloses a technique for adjusting the parallax of a subject included in images captured from a plurality of angles.

  For this reason, Patent Document 1 does not disclose a technique for calculating the area of a subject. Also, the orientation reference body of Patent Document 1 is difficult to apply to calculate the position and area of the subject. In particular, it is difficult to identify any point of the orientation reference body included in images taken from various angles with high accuracy, and it is necessary to calculate the area of the subject using the images taken afterwards. It is difficult to obtain data. This is because, depending on the angle and position of the captured image, the way in which the orientation reference body is reflected varies greatly, and it is difficult to obtain the relationship between the orientation reference body and the subject.

  In addition, the conventional technology cannot calculate the area of the subject sufficiently, and cannot calculate the components of the design for producing the optimum design for the installation location. As a result, there is a problem that preparation for improving the efficiency of design production cannot be made before the design is actually produced at the installation site. In particular, there is a problem that preparations for improving the efficiency of design production cannot be made at a place separated from the installation place such as a design office.

  In addition, when creating a design, a field engineer who shoots images of many design locations and obtains peripheral information, and an actual design based on images and information obtained by the field engineer. There is often a division of roles with production staff. In such a case, not only a production device for producing a design and an arithmetic device for computing design elements, but also a device and a system for linking the work of a field engineer and the work of a production staff are required. Applications and demands of design production are diverse, and field engineers work from the beginning to the end to create the design, or production staff work from the beginning to the end in a different workplace from the installation site to produce the design. This is also not sufficient in terms of efficiency and optimization of the manufactured design.

  In such a need, the prior art has not provided a solution.

  In view of the above problems, the present invention stores the image of the installation location, peripheral information of the installation location in a predetermined hierarchy, stores the original image and processing conditions of the design in another hierarchy, and has a function capable of calculating the components of the design. It is an object of the present invention to provide a storage device that is used to intensively produce a design on the basis of information collected on the site.

  In view of the above problems, the storage device of the present invention includes an input unit that receives information, a first storage area that stores an image of an installation area in which a design is manufactured, and a second storage area that stores peripheral information about the installation area. A third storage area for storing a plurality of original images of the design used in the installation area, and an output means for outputting at least one of the image, the peripheral information, and the original image as calculation conditions to a calculation means for calculating a component of the design And comprising.

  The storage device of the present invention can collectively store the image of the installation area of the design collected by the field engineer and the peripheral information of the installation area, and based on these information stored by the production staff in a predetermined work place, A design production system that can produce designs intensively can be provided.

  Further, the storage device of the present invention can produce a design optimized for the situation of the installation area while separating the work of the field engineer and the work of the production staff in terms of time and space. In particular, the information gathered by the field engineer with the information terminal is centrally stored by the storage device of the present invention, so that the intensive design production by the production staff can be facilitated.

  Further, since the storage device can store information in a hierarchy according to the type of information and the execution phase of work, the production staff can produce designs according to priority.

It is explanatory drawing which shows the installation place of the design manufactured in Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the design production method in Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is an internal block diagram of the design production apparatus in Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a block diagram of the memory | storage device in Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a block diagram of the memory | storage device in Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a schematic diagram of the installation area | region in Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a schematic diagram of the design by which the brightness | luminance was changed by the calculation means in Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a block diagram of the memory | storage device in Embodiment 2 of this invention. It is a conceptual diagram of the design production system in Embodiment 3 of this invention. It is a schematic diagram explaining the imaging of the 1st image and 2nd image in Embodiment 3 of this invention. FIG. 10 is an internal block diagram of area calculation means 4 in the third embodiment. It is an example of a photograph of the 1st picture and the 2nd picture in Embodiment 3 of the present invention. It is a front view of the label | marker in Embodiment 3 of this invention. It is a schematic diagram of the direction estimation of the imaging device in Embodiment 3 of this invention. It is a schematic diagram explaining the estimation of the distance of the imaging device and the label | marker in Embodiment 3 of this invention. It is a photograph explaining the estimation of the specific point coordinate in Embodiment 3 of this invention. It is a schematic diagram explaining the estimation of the three-dimensional coordinate of the specific point in Embodiment 3 of this invention.

  A storage device according to a first aspect of the present invention includes an input means for receiving information, a first storage area for storing an image of an installation area where a design is manufactured, and a second storage area for storing peripheral information of the installation area And a third storage area for storing a plurality of original images of the design used for the installation area, and an output for outputting at least one of the image, the peripheral information, and the original image as calculation conditions to a calculation means for calculating a component of the design Means.

  With this configuration, the storage device can separate the work of collecting information on the installation area where the design is installed from the work of producing the optimum design for the installation area. Furthermore, two operations can be parallelized.

  In the storage device according to the second aspect of the present invention, in addition to the first aspect, the peripheral information includes the position of the installation area, the building around the installation area, the material of the installation area, the direction of the installation area, and the installation area. Information on at least one of the angle and the height of the installation area.

  This configuration produces an optimal design around the installation area.

  In the storage device according to the third invention of the present invention, in addition to the first or second invention, the constituent elements are an original picture selected as a design produced in the installation area among the plurality of original pictures, and the installation area. The amount of paint required for the manufactured design, the cost required for the design manufactured in the installation area, the brightness suitable for the design manufactured in the installation area, the chromaticity suitable for the design manufactured in the installation area, and the installation area At least one of the positions of the string in the design.

  With this configuration, an optimum design for the installation area is produced based on the information obtained from the storage device.

  In the storage device according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, in addition to any of the first to third aspects, the peripheral information and the image are obtained from the input means.

  With this configuration, the storage device can efficiently obtain various information to be stored.

  In the storage device according to the fifth aspect of the present invention, in addition to any one of the first to fourth aspects, a fourth storage area for storing the area of the installation area calculated based on the image by the area calculation means. In addition.

  In addition to any one of the first to fifth inventions, the storage device according to the sixth aspect of the present invention further includes a fifth storage area for storing the design components calculated by the calculation means.

  With these configurations, the storage device can efficiently store the calculated information.

  In the storage device according to the seventh aspect of the present invention, in addition to any one of the first to sixth aspects, the first storage area, the second storage area, the third storage area, the fourth storage area, and the fifth storage area. Each of the areas is divided into different address areas, the first storage area, the second storage area, and the third storage area are located in the first hierarchy in the address area, and the fourth storage area and the fifth storage area are addresses. Located in the second hierarchy in the region.

  With this configuration, the storage device can store information used for design production and the result after design production independently in different layers. As a result, information overwriting and collision can be prevented.

  In the storage device according to the eighth aspect of the present invention, in addition to any one of the first to seventh aspects, the input means can receive information from a portable terminal that acquires at least one of an image and peripheral information. is there.

  With this configuration, the storage device can easily receive various information.

  In the storage device according to the ninth aspect of the present invention, in addition to the sixth aspect, the calculation means is produced in the selection area of the original picture as a design produced in the installation area among the plurality of original pictures. Calculation of the amount of paint required for the design, calculation of the cost required for the design manufactured in the installation area, calculation of the luminance suitable for the design manufactured in the installation area, calculation of the chromaticity suitable for the design manufactured in the installation area, and At least one of the determination of the position of the character string in the design produced in the installation area is performed.

  With this configuration, the design manufactured in the installation area is manufactured as a design optimized for the surrounding environment of the installation area.

  In the storage device according to the tenth aspect of the present invention, in addition to the ninth aspect, the calculating means outputs at least one of a design sample and a design image based on the components calculated by the calculating means.

  This configuration increases the benefits for the producer.

  In addition to the tenth aspect, the storage device according to the eleventh aspect of the present invention further includes a sixth storage area for storing at least one of the design sample and the design image.

  With this configuration, the storage device stores the produced design and enhances the convenience of the producer.

  In the storage device according to the twelfth aspect of the present invention, in addition to any of the sixth to eleventh aspects, the image includes a first image including an installation area and a sign imaged by the first imaging device; A second image including an installation area and a sign imaged by the second imaging device from an angle different from that of the first imaging device, and the area calculating means includes a value of a three-dimensional coordinate of the first position of the first imaging device; An imaging device coordinate estimation unit that estimates the value of the three-dimensional coordinate of the second position of the second imaging device, and each of a plurality of specific points included in the installation area based on the first position and the second position A specific point coordinate estimation unit that estimates a value of a dimensional coordinate, and a calculation unit that calculates the area of the installation area based on the value of the three-dimensional coordinate of each of a plurality of specific points. It has a two-dimensional shape with a pointer.

  With this configuration, the area calculating means can calculate the area of the installation area only with the image of the installation area including the sign.

  In the storage device according to the thirteenth aspect of the present invention, in addition to the twelfth aspect, the sign has a triangular shape having three pointers having apexes having different chromaticities and having a substantially spherical shape.

  With this configuration, the sign is easily identified in the image. As a result, the accuracy of area calculation increases.

  In the storage device according to the fourteenth invention of the present invention, in addition to the twelfth or thirteenth invention, the imaging device coordinate estimation unit is configured to detect the marker of the first imaging device based on the inclination of the marker included in the first image. The first direction is estimated as the first direction, the distance between the first imaging device and the sign is estimated as the first distance based on the area of the sign included in the first image, and the inclination of the sign included in the second image is estimated. Based on the direction of the sign of the second imaging device as the second direction, based on the area of the sign included in the second image, the distance between the second imaging device and the sign is estimated as the second distance, The first position is estimated based on the one direction and the first distance, and the second position is estimated based on the second direction and the second distance.

  With this configuration, the area calculation means can calculate the area only from the image of the installation area.

  In the storage device according to the fifteenth aspect of the present invention, in addition to any of the twelfth to fourteenth aspects, the first specific coordinates that are values of the three-dimensional coordinates of the specific point obtained from the first position, When the second specific coordinate which is the value of the three-dimensional coordinate of the specific point obtained from the two positions does not match, the specific point coordinate estimation unit calculates 3 of the specific point from the first specific coordinate and the second specific coordinate. Approximate the value of a dimensional coordinate.

  With this configuration, the accuracy of area calculation is maintained.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  (Embodiment 1)

Embodiment 1 will be described.
(Design production state)

  First, the state of design production will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an installation place of a manufactured design according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 1, advertisements, posters, design drawings, signs, flags, and the like may be installed in the outdoor buildings 2A and 2B. In recent years, the number of signboards based on images using LEDs or the like has increased, but there are many cases where screens by painting or posters are installed as usual. Designs such as posters, design drawings, signboards, and flags can be visually recognized by passers-by and passers of cars that are installed in the outdoor buildings 2A and 2B and go outdoors. For this reason, the design installed in the outdoor buildings 2A and 2B may be difficult to see or understand from a passerby or a car depending on the surrounding environment of the installation location.

  For example, in FIG. 1, a design installation area 1 is provided on the roof of a building 2 </ b> A, and a signboard 1 </ b> A is installed in the installation area 1. In the case where the building 2A is a high building, it may be difficult for a passerby traveling on the road on the ground to see the sign 1A. Or, it is difficult for passers-by to see the signboard 1A due to the elevation angle of the signboard 1A, the positional relationship with the surrounding buildings of the signboard 1A, the direction of the signboard 1A (whether it hits the western sun or the sunlight in the daytime, etc.) There is also.

  In FIG. 1, a design installation area 1 is provided on the wall surface of the building 2 </ b> B, and a poster 1 </ b> B is installed in the installation area 1. Since the poster 1B is installed so as to hang down on the wall surface, it is installed along the angle of the wall surface of the building 2B. In this case, it may be difficult to see due to the influence of the shadow of the adjacent building 2A, or may be difficult to see depending on the direction of the poster 1B as well as the sign 1A.

  In this way, the design installed in the installation area 1 may be difficult to see due to the influence of the surrounding environment. In this way, a design that is difficult to see from passers-by and automobiles cannot play the role of transmitting information installed outside the corner. Thus, the design which cannot play the role of information transmission has an insufficient balance between the production cost and the effect.

  On the other hand, at the stage where the design is actually produced in the installation area 1, the focus is only on producing the selected design, so it is difficult to change the components of the design according to the surrounding environment of the installation area 1. is there. For example, it is difficult to determine and work in the production of the installation area 1 on site because it is necessary to improve the brightness of the design and make it more conspicuous due to sunlight. Of course, the selection of the original picture of the design also depends on the surrounding environment, the area of the installation area 1 and the like, but there is a problem that there is no room for selection of the original picture after actually starting the production work on site.

  In addition, problems such as unnecessary or insufficient paint may occur, which may reduce the efficiency of production.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the design installed outdoors is affected variously by the surrounding environment. The design production apparatus according to the first embodiment can create an optimum design for the installation area and the surrounding environment after solving problems in the installation area 1 and the surrounding environment in advance.

  Also, as shown in FIG. 1, the installation area 1 where the design is installed varies from the rooftop of the building to the wall surface of the building. In addition, there are a plurality of design installation area 1 candidates, but it is often unknown which installation area 1 is actually used. Even on the wall surface of the same building, the upper side of the building may be adopted, or the lower side of the building may be adopted. Depending on which of the plurality of installation regions 1 is adopted, the appearance of the actually installed design often changes greatly.

  As described above, the outdoor installation region 1 is located in various places, and unless the design is actually installed, it is difficult to predict the appearance of the design and the effect based on the appearance. On the other hand, if the design production staff simultaneously confirms the site information and produces and determines the design at the site in the installation area 1, the production efficiency is remarkably poor. Costs also rise. By grasping the information about the installation area 1 itself (the area of the installation area 1) and the surrounding information of the installation area 1, it is more efficient to concentrate on design production at the office and work place of design production. This is appropriate in terms of cost reduction. This is because if the design installation area 1 information and peripheral information are provided, the production office can perform intensive production work in accordance with the original picture and the request of the client.

  In such design production, processing for collecting information on a plurality of installation areas 1 that can be listed as candidates and processing for producing an actual design based on the collected information are performed by different workers. Is efficient. Furthermore, a mechanism for connecting different works by different workers is required. The storage device in the first embodiment connects different works by different workers.

  FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a design production method according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 2 illustrates a process in which a field engineer collects an image of the installation area 1 and peripheral information, a process in which a production staff manufactures a design based on the collected image and peripheral information, and a storage device that connects these two processes. 100.

  For example, the field engineer holds the portable terminal 16 and takes images of a plurality of installation areas 1 or collects peripheral information. An image of the surroundings of the building 2 is taken, and the surrounding information is collected by inputting the surrounding information by a predetermined input method. The portable terminal 16 has an imaging function and an input function, and outputs a captured image and input peripheral information to the storage device 100 by a communication function (wireless communication, wired communication). The installation area 1 is provided in a plurality of buildings, and there are many outdoors.

  In addition, although it is not decided to actually install a design, it may be necessary to collect a lot of information regarding the candidates for the installation area 1 in order to determine a place where an actual design is to be produced. In such a case, the field engineer needs to collect images and information of candidates for the installation area 1 in various places and many places. In this case, the field engineer brings an image of the place where the design may be installed and peripheral information after bringing the mobile terminal. The collected information is stored in the storage device 100 by a communication function provided in the mobile terminal 16. With this storage device 100, the production staff (or design production device) that actually produces the design can use the image and the peripheral information of the installation area 1 collected by the field engineer.

  The production staff produces a design by using the design production device 3. At this time, the design production apparatus 3 can obtain an image of the installation area 1 and peripheral information necessary from the storage unit 100 from the storage apparatus 100. The design production apparatus 3 and the design production staff produce designs in a place different from the actual installation site. For this reason, the storage device 100 can connect the work of the field engineer and the work of the design production apparatus 3.

  That is, a design production system for producing designs in various outdoor installation areas 1 includes a process for collecting information related to the installation area 1, a design production apparatus 3 for producing a design, and a collection process and the design production apparatus 3. This is realized by the organically connected storage device 100.

  The design production device 3 can produce the design components and design samples produced in the installation area 1 by reading the image and the peripheral information of the installation area 1 from the storage unit 100.

  The design production apparatus 3 includes a reading unit 5 that reads out necessary information from the storage unit 100, an area calculation unit 4 that calculates the area of the installation region 1 based on an image of the installation region 1 obtained from the reading unit 5, and an area calculation unit 4. And calculating means 7 for calculating design elements based on the area calculated in step 1 and the peripheral information read by the reading unit 5. With these functions, the design production apparatus 3 can produce a design at a predetermined work place away from the installation site. At this time, the design production apparatus 3 can calculate the area of the installation area 1 only from the image of the installation area 1 and the peripheral information, and can produce an optimal design that matches the surrounding situation. This is because the design production apparatus 3 can obtain images and peripheral information of various installation areas 1 by the storage device 100.

  In this way, the storage device 100 organically connects the process of obtaining information on the installation area 1 and the process of producing the design.

  The storage device 100 classifies and stores various information collected through the mobile terminal 16 for such an organic connection.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the storage device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 4 shows an internal configuration of the storage device 100.

  The storage device 100 includes an input unit 111, a first storage region 113, a second storage region 114, a third storage region 115, and an output unit 112. The input unit 111 receives information transmitted by the communication function of the mobile terminal 16 or the like. That is, the input unit 111 receives the image of the installation area 1 and the peripheral information. In addition, we receive the original picture of the design prepared by the design production staff.

  The storage device 100 includes various memory devices such as a semiconductor memory, a hard disk drive, an optical disk, a magnetic disk, an optical memory, and a magnetic memory that can store data using electrical signals. For example, a memory device such as DRAM or SRAM may be provided. These memory devices have an address space for determining an area for storing data, and the first storage area 113, the second storage area 114, and the third storage area 115 are spaces distinguished by this address space. It is. Each of the first storage area 113 to the third storage area 115 is different in the type of information to be stored, and performs role sharing in storage.

  The first storage area 113 stores an image of the installation area 1 where the design is manufactured. The second storage area 114 stores peripheral information of the installation area 1. The third storage area 115 stores a plurality of original images of the design used for the installation area 1. The output unit 112 outputs at least one of the image stored in the first storage area 113, the peripheral information stored in the second storage area 114, and the original image stored in the third storage area 115 as a design component. Is output to the design production apparatus 3 as a calculation condition.

  At this time, the image stored in the first storage area 113 is used for the area calculation means 4 of the design production apparatus 3, and the area of the installation area 1 is calculated. Depending on the peripheral information stored in the second storage area 114, a specific original picture is selected from a plurality of original pictures obtained from the third storage area 115, and components such as design brightness and chromaticity are calculated. As described above, since various pieces of information necessary for the production of the design are stored separately, the design can be easily produced.

  Here, the peripheral information stored in the second storage area 114 includes the position of the installation area 1, the building around the installation area 1, the material of the installation area 1, the direction of the installation area 1, the angle of the installation area 1, and the installation area. Contains at least one piece of information at a height of one. The calculation means 7 uses these pieces of information to calculate the optimum design components for the installation area 1.

  The components of the design are the original picture selected for the design produced in the installation area 1 among the plurality of original pictures, the amount of paint necessary for the design produced in the installation area 1, and the design produced in the installation area 1 Cost, brightness suitable for a design manufactured in the installation area 1, chromaticity suitable for a design manufactured in the installation area 1, and a position of a character string in the design manufactured in the installation area 1.

  By calculating the components of the design in consideration of such peripheral information, a design with brightness and chromaticity optimized for the actual installation area 1 and the surrounding environment is produced. As a result, a design that produces a high effect after installation is produced.

  The storage device 100 stores the image of the installation area 1 transmitted by the field engineer through the portable terminal 16 and the like, the peripheral information, and the original image of the design stored in advance in the divided areas. Each of the stored information is output to the design production apparatus 3 that calculates the area of the installation area 1 or calculates the design components. With these flows, the actual production of the design and the collection of information necessary for the design production can be separated into independent operations, and can be connected as necessary.

  In addition, the storage device 100 stores information in a storage area that distinguishes between storing information and storing information in the design production device 3, so that the storage device 100 provides information. The speed can be increased, and the accuracy and efficiency of design production can be improved.

  In addition, since the process of collecting information related to the installation area 1 and the process of producing the design are performed in parallel, the production cost of the design can be reduced.

  Next, the detail of each part is demonstrated.

(Storage device)
The storage device 100 parallelizes the process of collecting information about the installation area 1 and the process of producing a design, and organically connects the two processes.

  The storage device 100 includes various storable devices that can store data as electrical signals, such as a hard disk drive, an optical disk, a magnetic disk, a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, a USB memory, a semiconductor memory, an optical memory, and a magnetic memory. For example, a memory device such as DRAM or SRAM may be provided. These memory devices have an address space, and each of the first storage area 113, the second storage area 114, and the third storage area 115 is an area that divides this address space.

  The input unit 111 can receive an image of the installation area 1 and surrounding information by being able to receive information from the portable terminal 16 possessed by the field engineer. The input unit 111 includes a connector capable of connecting an electrical signal such as a USB connector, a wireless connector, a priority connector, a network cable, or an IAS bus. Furthermore, it has a control part which can exchange an electrical signal via this connector. By providing this element, the input means 111 can receive necessary information.

  In addition, the output unit 112 outputs information stored in the first storage area 113 to the third storage area 115 to the design production apparatus 3. In this case, similarly to the input unit 111, a connector that can connect an electric signal and a control unit that controls the electric signal may be provided. Further, the output unit 112 may be integrated with the input unit 111.

  For example, when the storage device 100 is realized by a general-purpose personal computer or arithmetic device, the input unit 111 and the output unit 112 are realized by a data read / write unit provided in the personal computer or arithmetic device. The first storage area 113 to the third storage area 115 are realized by a hard disk drive or an internal memory provided in a personal computer or a computing device. Furthermore, the storage device 100 may be realized by a personal computer or an arithmetic device together with the design production device 3. In this case, the storage device 100 is realized by a hard disk drive or an internal memory included in a personal computer or an arithmetic device, and the design production device 3 is realized by a function executed by the CPU.

  The storage device 100 divides a storage area in which data can be stored for each address (has a plurality of banks), and a first storage area 113, a second storage area 114, and a third storage in each of the divided address spaces. Area 115 is allocated. As a result, elements necessary for the design production apparatus 3 can be stored in the divided storage spaces. This makes it easy for the design production apparatus 3 to read data.

  A part of each of the first storage area 113, the second storage area 114, and the third storage area 115 may overlap in the same address space. Further, an image of a certain installation area 1 stored in the first storage area 113, peripheral information of this installation area 1 stored in the second storage area 114, and this installation area 1 stored in the third storage area 115. It is also preferable that each of the original pictures used in the storage is stored at a common address position in each storage area so as to be associated with each other by an address.

  For example, the image of the predetermined installation area 1 is stored at the address “1000 address” of the first storage area 113, the peripheral information of this installation area 1 is stored at the address “1000 address” of the second storage area 114, and the third The original image corresponding to the installation area 1 is stored at the address “1000 address” in the storage area 115. The design production apparatus 3 may refer to “1000 addresses” in the first storage area 113 to the third storage area 115 when calculating the components of the design installed in the installation area 1. The calculation is not made. The same applies to the case where the storage device 100 includes a further storage area as necessary. By allocating and storing related information to related addresses, the storage device 100 can easily organize and utilize the collected information, and establish an organic connection between field work and production work.

    (Design production equipment)

  Based on the information stored in the storage device 100, the design production device 3 calculates the components of the design installed in the installation area 1.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the design production apparatus 3 includes a reading unit 5, an area calculation unit 4, an output unit 6, and a calculation unit 7. The reading unit 5 reads at least one of the image, the peripheral information, and the original image of the installation area 1 stored in the storage device 100 as necessary. The area calculation means 4 calculates the area of the installation area 1 from the read image of the installation area 1. The calculation means 7 calculates the structural elements of the design manufactured in the installation area 1 based on the peripheral information and the like. The output unit 6 outputs the area calculated by the area calculating unit 4 and the design component calculated by the calculating unit 7 (at this time, an intermediate value of these calculated values may be output).

  FIG. 3 is an internal block diagram of the design production apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

  By providing these elements, the design production device 3 eliminates the work that is troublesome or dangerous at the outdoor site where the installation area 1 exists, and then concentrates on a work site away from the installation site. It is possible to calculate and determine the structural elements necessary for the design. Since it is possible to determine the components necessary for the design at a work place away from the site, it is possible to improve the accuracy of the design production, in addition to prevent problems after the production, and further reduce the production cost.

  Further, the design production apparatus 3 can calculate the components of the design produced in the installation area 1 simply by obtaining the information related to the installation area 1 collected by the field engineer from the storage device 100. That is, the design production apparatus 3 can perform design production intensively.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the installation area 1 is an area provided on the rooftop or wall surface of a building, and is a certain range provided on a frame or wall surface formed as the installation area 1. A poster or signboard produced in the installation area 1 is installed. Alternatively, posters and billboards are produced in the installation area 1.

(Area calculation means)
The area calculating means 4 calculates the area of the installation area 1. This is because the area of the installation area 1 is required because a design such as a poster or a signboard is produced in the installation area 1. This is because the area of the actual installation area 1 needs to be calculated in order to optimize the appearance of the manufactured design, the amount of paint required, and the balance. The installation area 1 may be a square, but may be a circle or a polygon. Therefore, calculating the area is important in actually producing a design.

  The area calculation means 4 calculates the area of the installation region 1 by various methods using the image of the installation region 1. At this time, the area calculation unit 4 may calculate the entire area of the installation region 1 or may calculate a partial area of the installation region 1. For example, when the design is installed only in a part of the installation area 1 and a material different from the design is installed in the other part, the area calculation means 4 is configured to install the design of the installation area 1. Only the area of the part is calculated.

  The area calculation means 4 calculates the area of the installation area 1 based on the captured image of the installation area 1. Since the three-dimensional coordinates of the specific point included in the installation area are estimated from the captured image of the installation area 1, the area of the installation area 1 can be calculated.

  Thus, the area calculation means 4 calculates the area of the installation area 1 based on the three-dimensional coordinates of a plurality of specific points in the image of the installation area 1 (particularly located on the outer periphery thereof). The area calculation unit 4 outputs the calculated area to the calculation unit 7 (or the calculation unit 7 reads the area calculated by the area calculation unit 4).

  The storage device 100 may further include a fourth storage area that stores the area of the installation area 1 calculated by the area calculation unit 4. That is, the area calculation unit 4 outputs the calculated area value to the storage device 100 via the output unit 6, and the fourth storage area included in the storage device 100 stores the area value.

  FIG. 5 is a block diagram of the storage device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. The storage device 100 illustrated in FIG. 5 includes a fourth storage area 116 and a fifth storage area 117 in addition to the first storage area 113 to the third storage area 115. As with the other storage areas, the fourth storage area 116 and the fifth storage area 117 are divided by an address space. The fourth storage area 116 stores the area value calculated by the area calculating means 4. Since the calculated area of the installation area 1 is stored in the storage device 100, it can be used when a new design is manufactured afterwards. In addition, since the area is stored in the fourth storage area 116 which is an address space different from the other storage areas, no read error occurs when the area value is read.

  The area calculation means 4 also outputs the calculated area value to the calculation means 7 for use in the calculation in the calculation means 7. Alternatively, the calculation means 7 reads the area value from the fourth storage area 116 of the storage device 100 and then calculates the design components. In this case, the calculation in the area calculation means 4 and the calculation in the calculation means 7 can be performed discontinuously and in parallel, so that the work efficiency of design production can be increased.

  Thus, the area value calculated by the area calculating means 4 is stored in the fourth storage area 116 so that it can be used by the calculating means 7 (of course, even if it is output to the calculating means 7 in parallel). good).

  The area calculation means 4 may calculate the area of the target installation area to be produced by the design production apparatus 1 each time the design is produced, or calculate the area for each of a plurality of installation areas prepared in advance. It is also possible to keep it. In the latter case, the calculated area may be stored in the fourth storage area 116.

  Although not shown in FIG. 3, the design production apparatus 3 may include a storage unit that stores the read information. The storage unit temporarily stores various information read from the storage device 100 by the reading unit 5. That is, the area calculation unit 4 and the calculation unit 7 store the data necessary for executing the calculation process, thereby enabling the calculation process.

    (Calculation means)

  The calculating means 7 calculates a design component based on at least one of the area of the installation area 1, the image of the installation area 1, and the peripheral information. The area of the installation area 1 can be obtained from the area calculation means 4 or from the fourth storage area 116 inside the storage device 100. When the data is obtained from the storage device 100, the reading unit 5 reads the area value.

  Similarly, the reading unit 5 reads a plurality of original images of the design from the storage device 100 (third storage area 115). This original picture is, for example, an original picture created by a designer, or an image element or a combination of image elements prepared in advance. The read original image information is used by the calculation means 7. Further, the reading unit 5 reads the peripheral information from the second storage area 114.

  The calculation means 7 calculates the components necessary for the design based on at least one of the area of the installation area 1 calculated by the area calculation means 4, the peripheral information, and the original image. The component necessary for the design may be a final product such as a signboard or a poster used in the actually produced design, or may be an element necessary for the design. For example, the constituent elements are an original picture selected as a design produced from a plurality of original pictures, an amount of paint necessary for the design produced in the installation area 1, a cost required for the design produced in the installation area 1, and the installation area 1 At least one of brightness suitable for the design to be manufactured, chromaticity suitable for the design to be manufactured in the installation area 1, and the position of the character string in the design manufactured in the installation area 1.

  In particular, the calculation means 7 can produce a design that can exhibit the effects suitable for the installation environment even after installation by calculating the design components in consideration of the peripheral information of the installation area 1. The peripheral information may further include information such as the height, structure, and shape of buildings around the installation area 1 and the positional relationship between the installation area 1 and surrounding buildings. Further, the peripheral information includes information on climate such as average weather, average temperature, average illuminance, and average sunshine hours in the installation area 1, map information around the installation area 1, and population trends around the installation area 1. May be included. This is because the peripheral information has a role of increasing the accuracy of selecting an optimum design that is manufactured and installed in the installation area 1.

  The installation area 1 is located in various places according to the demands of companies and individuals who request design production. It may be a rooftop of a building or apartment, a signboard frame standing on the building, a road, an advertising board at a bus stop or a station. On the other hand, most of the producers who produce designs only produce designs as designs according to the purpose of the design by the client (company promotion, notice to customers, etc.).

  That is, the design produced by the producer corresponds to the direct purpose of the client, but the effect after installation at the actual installation location 1 has not been confirmed.

  On the other hand, the surrounding environment of the installation place 1 has a great influence on whether or not the design after installation can fulfill its purpose. For example, when there are many buildings around the installation area 1, a design in which a lot of information is packed in the installation area 1 is inappropriate. For this reason, when there are a large number of buildings around the installation area 1, a simple design with information narrowed down to important points is suitable for the installation area 1.

  In design production without using peripheral information, there is a problem that a design corresponding to such an installation location cannot be selected. Of course, there is no problem if the producer who produces the design confirms the information on the site, but the production while the manufacturer confirms the site is time-consuming and costly. Furthermore, since the design is produced depending on the know-how and skills of the producer, there is a problem that it is difficult to maintain the production of the design that maintains a certain level.

  On the other hand, since the calculation means 7 also uses the peripheral information to determine the constituent elements of the design, the produced design takes into consideration the influence of the peripheral information. In addition, since the peripheral information is stored in the storage device 100, it is not necessary for the producer to visit the installation site. In addition, since the calculation means 7 uses the peripheral information together with the design original image and the like to determine the constituent elements of the design, it is possible to prevent variations depending on the personal skill of the producer.

  The calculation means 7 can calculate the design suitable for the installation site and the components of the design by using the peripheral information stored in the second storage area 114 of the storage device 100.

    (Select original picture)

  The calculation means 7 selects an original image to be finally used from a plurality of original images while also considering peripheral information. For example, when it is necessary to produce an advertising sign for a restaurant in a certain installation area 1, the appearance of the restaurant, the restaurant owner, the restaurant menu, the restaurant map, the restaurant representative food, etc. There are many original picture options. Which original image is appropriate to be selected from such a plurality of options often depends on the surrounding environment of the installation area 1.

  For example, when the installation area 1 is in a downtown area where the restaurant is located, the appearance of the restaurant or a map is suitable as the original image selected for the installation area 1. It is because it is optimal as a design to provide information that can reach a restaurant when advertising to a passerby in the vicinity of the restaurant.

  On the contrary, when the installation area 1 is located at a place away from the downtown area where the restaurant is located, the menu of the restaurant or the original picture of the representative dish is suitable as the original picture selected for the installation area 1. This is because it is optimal as a design in that it allows the passerby to have an interest in the restaurant.

  In addition, a design with reduced luminance is preferable in a place where the installation area 1 is considered to have strong sunlight based on the peripheral information. On the other hand, depending on the type of original image, it may be difficult to suppress the luminance. For example, in the case of an original picture based on a photograph of a representative dish, it is difficult to suppress the brightness. When there is such peripheral information, it is preferable that the design production device 3 does not select an original image including a photo of a representative dish from a plurality of original images.

  In this way, the calculation means 7 can select an optimal original picture by considering the peripheral information for the original picture used for the design applied to the installation area 1.

(Example of component calculation)
Further, the calculation means 7 calculates or determines design components other than the original design image. Here, the calculation is to calculate a value for a component that is determined by a value such as luminance or chromaticity by a predetermined threshold or calculation processing, and when an original image is selected from a plurality of original images Is to select the original image, and if it is necessary to determine the position of the character string, it is to determine the position of the character string, and when producing the final design, determine the design ( Production).

  Therefore, the calculation unit 7 may include dedicated hardware or a dedicated LSI. Alternatively, software executed by a general-purpose processor may be provided. For example, when the design production apparatus 3 is realized by a general-purpose personal computer, the CPU included in the personal computer may exhibit the function of the calculation unit 7. The CPU reads a program stored in a memory (including a cache memory and an external memory) and executes a predetermined procedure. The predetermined procedure includes (1) reading the area value of the installation area 1 from the area calculating means 4, (2) reading the peripheral information from the second storage area 114, (3) reading the original image from the third storage area 115, 4-1) Select an original image suitable for the design based on the area value and the peripheral information, (4-2) Calculate the cost required for the design based on the area value and the original image, and (4-3) The step includes calculating the brightness and chromaticity of the design based on the peripheral information and the original image, and (4-4) determining the position of the character string in the design based on the peripheral information and the original image. Of course, steps other than these steps may be included.

In each of steps (4-1) to (4-4), it is also preferable that the calculation means 7 has a reference value for calculation and selection. Furthermore, it is also preferable to have a detailed procedure for determination based on the reference value.
(Example 1)

  The calculation means 7 calculates at least one of luminance and chromaticity suitable for the design manufactured in the installation area 1 based on at least one of the direction and angle of the installation area 1.

  For example, when the installation area 1 is a signboard on the roof of a building and the signboard is tilted downward, natural light and illumination are difficult to hit the installation area 1. In this case, it is preferable in terms of easy viewing that the brightness of the design installed in the installation area 1 is high. In addition, when the installation area 1 is at an angle at which natural light or illumination is easy to hit, it is preferable from the viewpoint of easy viewing that the luminance of the design is low. In addition, when the direction of the installation area 1 is an angle for receiving the western sun, it is preferable that the chromaticity of the design manufactured in the installation area 1 is deep in order to ensure visibility. The calculation means 7 can calculate the luminance and chromaticity in accordance with the installation site based on the peripheral information.

  Of course, the calculation means 7 may determine the brightness and chromaticity of the design manufactured in the installation area 1 from the relationship with the buildings around the installation area 1 and other signs. For example, when there are only buildings or signboards with weak colors around the installation area 1, it is also preferable to increase the chromaticity of the design of the installation area 1 or select a bright chromaticity. Of course, the same applies to the luminance.

    (Example 2)

  The calculation means 7 determines the position of the character string in the design manufactured in the installation area 1 based on at least one of the buildings around the installation area 1 and the height of the installation area 1.

  FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of an installation area in the first embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 6, a plurality of buildings are located adjacent to each other.

  The building 2C includes an installation area 1C as a signboard on the roof, and a design 10C is manufactured in the installation area 1C. After the design 10C is manufactured in the installation area 1C, the design 1C transmits information to passers-by and drivers.

  Here, the building 2C has a very high height. The height of the installation region 1C located on the roof of the building 2C having such a high height is high. The character string 101C included in the design 10C has a role of transmitting predetermined information to passers-by and drivers. In FIG. 6, the character string 101C indicates the telephone number of the store or company related to the design 10C. Here, since the installation area 1C is high, if the character string 101C included in the design 10C is at a high position, it is difficult for a passerby or a driver traveling on the road.

  For this reason, the calculation means 7 determines the position of the character string 101C included in the design 10C as a low position when the height of the installation area 1C is equal to or greater than a predetermined value. In FIG. 6, the character string 101C is determined to be positioned below the design 10C. Since the character string 101C is positioned under the design 10C, a passerby and a driver can surely confirm information that the design 10C installed on the roof of the high building 1C intends to convey.

  In FIG. 6, the building 2 </ b> E is not high in height, but the building 2 </ b> D is built so as to cover the building 2 </ b> E. In the design produced in the installation area 1E on the roof of the building 2E, there is a possibility that the building 2D overlaps depending on the angle seen from the passers-by and the driver. In such a case, there are few problems because it is difficult to see the part of the design 10E as a picture, but there is a problem when the character string 101E for transmitting information is difficult to see. It is below the installation area 1E that the building 2D and the installation area 1E tend to overlap.

  For this reason, the calculation means 7 determines the position of the character string 101E included in the design 10E manufactured in the installation area 1E upward. Since the character string 101E is positioned above the design 10E, even if it overlaps with the building 2D, it becomes easy for a passerby or the like to see it. Since the design 10E has the character string 101E as information to be transmitted, the fact that the character string 101E is easily visible is cost-effective for the installer of the design 10E.

  In the description using FIG. 6, the position of the character string has been described in either the upper side or the lower side. For example, it may be determined at one of the left and right positions. Alternatively, the calculation means 7 may determine not only the position of the character string but also the brightness and chromaticity of the character string. For example, when the height of the installation area is high, it is preferable that the character string has a fluorescent color in order to attract the consciousness of the passerby. In conventional design production, the design production apparatus 3 according to the first embodiment also uses the calculation means 7 to make use of the peripheral information while using such ingenuity that depends on the manufacturer's know-how in the field. Can be optimized.

  As described above, the calculation unit 7 can determine the position, brightness, chromaticity, and the like of the character string included in the design according to the surrounding environment.

  The calculation means 7 also considers the height of the installation area 1, the buildings around the installation area 1, and the direction and angle of the installation area 1. It is also preferable to determine a plurality of combinations of chromaticity, color and character string position. This is because depending on the surrounding environment of the installation area 1, it is necessary to optimize not only the position of the character string but also the combination of luminance and chromaticity.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the calculation means 7 selects an original image of a certain pattern, and changes the luminance of the main pattern included in the original image based on information on the surrounding environment of the installation area 1. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of a design in which the luminance is changed by the calculation unit according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

  FIG. 7A shows a design 10 </ b> F based on the original image selected by the calculation means 7. Design 10F includes a sun mark in the center. Here, the calculation means 7 reads the peripheral information from the first storage unit 5. When the read out peripheral information includes information that the sunlight is very strong for the installation area 1, the brightness of the sun mark (this is the most appealing design of the design 10F) is lowered. It is easier to see for passers-by. For this reason, the calculation means 7 performs calculation to lower the brightness of the sun mark. That is, the design is changed to a design 10G shown in FIG.

  Even if the design 10G with reduced brightness is manufactured in the installation area 1 in a place with strong sunlight, it can be easily seen by a passerby.

    (Example 3)

  Based on the area calculated by the original image and the area calculation means 4, the calculation means 7 produces the amount of paint necessary for the design produced in the installation area 1 (the amount of paint when the design is produced by painting and the design by printing. And at least one of the costs required for the design.

  The area calculation means 4 can calculate the area from the image of the installation area 1. Further, the calculation means 7 selects a specific original image from a plurality of original image candidates based on the intention of the installer who installs the design in the installation region 1 and the surrounding environment of the installation region 1. Further, the calculation means 7 can read the area calculated by the area calculation means 4. The calculation means 7 can calculate the amount of paint necessary for the design manufactured in the installation area 1 by using the original image and the area.

  Further, when the calculating means 7 also includes information such as the unit price of the paint, the calculating means 7 can calculate the cost required for the design from the calculated paint amount. This is because the cost is calculated by multiplying the paint unit price by the amount of paint. Or it can also calculate in consideration of costs, such as wages.

  The calculating means 7 can also select an original image based on an allowable cost. A limit value can be set in advance when the calculation means 7 calculates. This set value may be stored and stored in the storage device 100. Alternatively, it may be input when the user uses the design production apparatus 3. The calculation means 7 can select an original picture based on the set allowable cost, area, and paint unit price. For example, the chromaticity distribution of the original image is analyzed, and the calculation means 7 can select the original image based on whether the cost produced from the chromaticity distribution and the unit price of the paint is equal to or lower than the allowable cost. Of course, other methods may be used for selecting the original image.

  Further, the cost may be calculated based on the peripheral information. For example, if the design has a high fluorescent color or chromaticity due to weak sunlight, the calculation means 7 calculates the cost of the produced design based on the peripheral information in addition to the area and the original picture. To do.

  As described above, the calculation unit 7 is designed to be optimal for the installation area 1 based on the area calculated by the area calculation unit 4, the peripheral information stored in the first storage unit 5, and the original image stored in the second storage unit 6. The component of is calculated.

  The calculation unit 7 outputs the calculated design components to the storage device 100, and the storage device 100 stores the calculated design components. At this time, the storage device 100 includes a fifth storage area 117 that stores design components. The fifth storage area 117 is as shown in FIG. The fifth storage area 117 is distinguished from other storage areas in the address space of the storage area inside the storage device 100, like the first storage area 113 and the like. By storing the design components in the fifth storage area 117 divided as the address space, the design components are not mixed with each other, and errors in using the calculated design components are less likely to occur.

  Further, the fifth storage area 117 divided in the address space from the other storage areas stores the design components, so that the design production apparatus 3 can easily read the design components later. is there.

  In FIG. 5, the first storage area 113 to the fifth storage area 117 are arranged in order, but it is not necessary to divide the address space in this order. The address space may be divided in any way. The first storage area 113 to the fifth storage area 117 may be divided in accordance with the physical characteristics of the storage areas included in the storage device 100.

  Note that the calculation means 7 may share the function of the area calculation means 4 or may be configured as the same hardware. For example, when the design production apparatus 3 is a general-purpose personal computer, the CPU may perform the functions of the area calculation means 4 and the calculation means 7.

  As described above, the calculation means 7 can produce a design that is optimal for the installation area 1 (e.g., easy to see for passers-by and suitable for the installation location) on the premise of surrounding information, etc., even if the installation area 1 is not installed. . In addition, since work can be performed at a location away from the installation site in the installation area 1, work efficiency is high, and costs such as labor costs and labor costs required for work can be reduced. Moreover, the danger in work is also reduced.

  The calculation means 7 determines that the character string in the design is arranged above the installation area based on the surrounding information, so that passers-by and cars can easily see the character string. With easy-to-read character strings, design providers (shops, companies, etc.) can reliably provide passersby, drivers, etc. with information that they want to make widely known, such as phone numbers and website addresses. As a result, such designs are very cost effective for design providers.

  As described above, the calculation unit 7 can intensively calculate design components at a location separated from the installation site based on various information read from the storage device 100. At this time, the operation of collecting information on the installation site and the operation of producing the design are separated by the storage device 100, so that each operation is performed in parallel. In addition, since each work can be performed intensively, work efficiency and cost of design production are reduced.

  As described above, the storage device 100 according to the first embodiment can parallelize the work of collecting the information of the installation site where the design is installed and the work of producing the design based on the information of the installation site. In addition, since the storage device 100 stores information for each type in the first storage area 113 to the fifth storage area 117 that divides the address space, work using the information becomes efficient.

  In addition, the design production device 3 connected to the storage device 100 can produce an optimum design having a high effect after installation in consideration of peripheral information of the installation area 1. In addition, it is possible to work intensively at a work place away from the installation site, and it is possible to stably produce a design of a certain level or more without depending on the know-how and skills of the design producer. As a result, it is possible to reduce the labor and cost for production, and to provide a cost-effective design for the production client.

  (Embodiment 2)

  Next, a second embodiment will be described.

  The storage device 100 according to the second embodiment further increases the efficiency in storing the collected information and outputting the stored information.

  FIG. 8 is a block diagram of the storage device according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. As described in the first embodiment, the storage device 100 includes the first storage area 113 to the fifth storage area 117 in which the address space is divided. Each of the divided storage areas stores different types of information based on different roles. The first storage area 113 stores the image of the installation area 1, the second storage area 114 stores the peripheral information of the installation area 1, the third storage area 115 stores the original image, and the fourth storage area 116 is calculated. The fifth storage area 117 stores the components of the calculated design.

  Here, the image of the installation area 1, the peripheral information of the installation area 1 and the original image are information necessary for the design production, and the area of the installation area 1 and the components of the design are generated as a result of the design production. It is. For this reason, the areas from the first storage area 113 to the third storage area 115 and the areas of the fourth storage area 116 and the fifth storage area 117 have different positions.

  In general, the storage device 100 has a limit in the amount of storage, and there are physical restrictions on the storage area. For this reason, it is not preferable that one of the information necessary for the design production and the result of the design production erodes the other storage area. In addition, the storage device 100 has a role of separating the work of collecting information on the installation area 1 where the design is placed from the work of creating the design while being separated. For this reason, it is preferable that the collected information and the calculated information are stored in different layers from the viewpoint of preventing overwriting of information and parallel work. This is because, when each exists in the same hierarchy, there is a possibility that writing of the collected information into the storage area and writing of the calculated information into the storage area may collide.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the first storage area 113, the second storage area 114, and the third storage area 115 are located in the first hierarchy 170, and the fourth storage area 116 and the fifth storage area 117 are the second storage area. Located in the hierarchy 171. Since each is located in a different hierarchy, collision in information overwriting and writing is prevented.

  In particular, the storage device 100 is preferably provided with an input port for writing information to the first hierarchy 170 and an input port for writing information to the second hierarchy 171 separately. In this case, the writing of information to the first hierarchy 170 and the writing of information to the second hierarchy 171 do not collide. Similarly, it is also preferable that the storage device 100 has an output port for reading information from the first hierarchy 170 and an output port for reading information from the second hierarchy 171 separately. In this case, reading of information from the first hierarchy 170 and reading of information from the second hierarchy 171 do not collide.

  As described above, the information to be collected and the calculated information are stored in different layers, and an input / output port is provided for each layer, thereby preventing information overwriting and collision. Of course, all of the first storage area 113 to the fifth storage area 117 may be provided in different layers and provided with different input / output ports, but in this case, the cost increases. On the other hand, the collected information is stored in the first hierarchy 170, and the calculated result is stored in the second hierarchy 171. By managing the information in the two hierarchies, the information can be easily managed at the minimum cost.

  Further, although not shown, the storage device 100 may further include a sixth storage area.

  The calculation means 7 for calculating the design components can output at least one of a design sample and a design image based on the calculated design components. This is because, if the design original picture, brightness, chromaticity, and the like are calculated, a design sample or design picture actually produced in the installation area 1 can be produced. The sixth storage area stores the output design sample and design image. By storing these in the sixth storage area, the storage device 100 can easily provide the manufactured design.

  Since the sixth storage area stores information such as the produced design image, the sixth storage area is preferably located in the second hierarchy. With this positioning, the design sample and design image produced by the design production device 3 can be easily utilized.

  Note that the storage device 100 in Embodiments 1 and 2 is also preferably connected to other devices and apparatuses via a network. This is because the information collected by the portable terminal 16 can be easily transferred, and data exchange with the design production apparatus 3 can be facilitated. Of course, it is also preferable that the storage device 100 is connected to the Internet and the storage device 100 obtains map information of the installation area 1 and the like.

  (Embodiment 3)

  Next, Embodiment 3 will be described. In the third embodiment, a calculation method in which the area calculation unit 4 calculates the area of the installation area 1 based on the image of the installation area 1 will be described. This calculation method will be described based on a design production system including the design production apparatus 3 and the storage device 100.

  The area calculation unit 4 calculates the area of the installation area 1 based on the image of the installation area 1 obtained from the first storage area 113. At this time, an image capturing unit that captures an image of the installation area 1 is further provided, and an image captured by the image capturing unit is stored in the first storage area 113.

(Overview of the entire system)
FIG. 9 is a conceptual diagram of a design production system according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

  The design production system analyzes the captured image, the installation area 1, the sign 12 placed close to the installation area 1, the installation area 1 and the sign 12, and the installation area 1. And a design production apparatus 3 that calculates the area of The storage device 100 described in the first and second embodiments is included in the design production apparatus 3. The imaging device 13 is an example of a portable terminal that is carried by a field engineer and can capture an image of the installation area 1 and input peripheral information.

  The installation area 1 is a part or the whole of a building or a building, and in particular, is a part including a region where the area of the building or the building is to be calculated. For example, the installation area 1 may be a wall surface of a building or a condominium, or a signboard installation board of a building or a condominium.

  The sign 12 is a reference member that includes three pointers 121, 122, and 123, and calculates the area of the installation region 1 from the three-dimensional coordinates of the imaging device 13 with reference to the sign 12.

  The imaging device 13 is an electronic device or an electronic device having an imaging function such as a camera, a digital camera, a digital video camera, a mobile terminal, or a mobile phone.

  In FIG. 9, a personal computer is shown as an example of the design production apparatus 3. However, not only the personal computer but also a dedicated apparatus and a general-purpose apparatus having the design production function described in the first and second embodiments are widely used. It is done. The personal computer also includes a storage device 100, an area calculation unit 4, and a calculation unit 7 (and other elements associated therewith).

  In the design production system, the sign 12 is first installed in the vicinity of the installation area 1, and the imaging device 13 captures the sign 12 and the installation area 1 at the same time. At this time, the imaging device 13 includes a first image including the sign 12 and the installation area 1 and a second image (or a third image) including the sign 12 and the installation area 1 captured from an angle different from the first image. Image above).

  FIG. 10 shows a state where the first imaging device 13a and the second imaging device 13b image the installation area 1 and the sign 12. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining imaging of the first image and the second image in the third embodiment of the present invention. The first imaging device 13a captures the installation area 1 and the sign 12 from a predetermined direction to obtain a first image. On the other hand, the second imaging device 13b captures the installation area 1 and the sign 12 from a different angle from the first imaging device 13a to obtain a second image.

  The area calculation means 4 obtains a first image and a second image. As described above, the first image and the second image include the images of the installation area 1 and the sign 12. A field engineer at the installation site brings the first imaging device 13a and the second imaging device 13b to capture the first image and the second image of the target installation area 1. Of course, not only one first image and second image, but also a plurality of first images and second images may be captured in order to obtain a large amount of information. Further, the field engineer not only captures the first image and the second image but also collects peripheral information of the installation area 1.

  The first image and the second image are stored in the first storage area 113.

  The area calculation unit 4 includes a reading unit 41, an imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42, a specific point coordinate estimation unit 43, and a calculation unit 44. FIG. 11 is an internal block diagram of the area calculating means 4 in the third embodiment. Here, the reading unit 41 may be an element included in the storage device 100. FIG. 11 shows elements necessary for calculating the area of the installation area 1 using the first image and the second image captured by the first imaging device 13a and the second imaging device 13b.

  The reading unit 41 reads the first image and the second image stored in the first storage area 113. At this time, reading may be performed one by one or a plurality of images may be read at a time. The reading unit 41 outputs the read image data to the imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42.

  The imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42 captures the first position represented by the three-dimensional coordinates of the imaging device (first imaging device 13a) that captured the first image, and the imaging device (second imaging device 13b) that captured the second image. ) Of the second position represented by the three-dimensional coordinates. The first imaging device 13a and the second imaging device 13b are simply described as “first and second” for convenience of explanation, and the first imaging device 13a and the second imaging device 13b are the same. It may be a device or a different device. This point is the same throughout the present specification.

  If there are other images, the imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42 also determines the three-dimensional coordinates of the third position where the third imaging device is arranged (also the three-dimensional coordinates of the n-th position where the n-th imaging device is arranged). Is estimated.

  The imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42 estimates the direction between the imaging device and the sign 12 based on the inclination of the sign 12 included in the image. Next, the distance between the imaging device and the sign 12 is estimated based on the area of the sign 12 included in the image. The imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42 estimates the three-dimensional coordinates of the position of the imaging device using this direction and distance. In addition, the magnitude | size, shape, area, etc. of the label | marker 12 are known.

  The imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42 converts the coordinates of the imaging device having local coordinates, which are two-dimensional coordinates, into global coordinates, which are three-dimensional coordinates with reference to the sign 12. The imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42 estimates the three-dimensional coordinate values of the imaging device at a plurality of positions. As a result, the value of the three-dimensional coordinate of each imaging device at a different position is estimated.

  When the first position and the second position are estimated, based on the first position and the second position, the specific point coordinate estimation unit 43 calculates the three-dimensional coordinates of each of the plurality of specific points included in the installation area 1. presume. If the three-dimensional coordinates of a plurality of specific points included in the installation area 1 are determined, the area can be calculated.

  The specific point coordinate estimation unit 43 estimates the three-dimensional coordinates of the specific point included in the installation area 1 on the basis of the estimated three-dimensional coordinates of the imaging device. The installation area 1 has an area for which the area is to be calculated, and the specific point coordinate estimation unit 43 determines a plurality of points along the outer edge of the area as specific points. If the values of the global three-dimensional coordinates of the plurality of specific points are obtained, the area of the region surrounded by the specific points can be calculated.

  The value of the three-dimensional coordinates of the imaging device is estimated by the imaging device coordinate estimation unit 43. The three-dimensional coordinates of the specific point are estimated based on the three-dimensional coordinates of the imaging device. That is, the direction of a specific point is estimated from a plurality of imaging devices, and the overlapping point in the direction of the specific point estimated from the plurality of imaging devices becomes the value of the three-dimensional coordinate of the specific point. Thus, the value of one three-dimensional coordinate of the specific point is calculated based on the positions of the plurality of imaging devices. The specific point coordinate estimation unit 43 calculates a value of the three-dimensional coordinates of each of the plurality of specific points by performing an estimation operation on each of the plurality of specific points.

  The specific point coordinate estimation unit 43 outputs the estimated values of the three-dimensional coordinates of the plurality of specific points to the calculation unit 44.

  The calculation unit 44 can calculate the area of the installation region 1 based on the three-dimensional coordinates of the specific point received from the specific point coordinate estimation unit 43. The calculation unit 44 calculates the area of a predetermined region surrounded by the specific point in the installation region 1.

  If the installation area 1 is a part of the wall surface of the building, the specific point is a point on a line surrounding the part of the wall surface. By calculating based on the three-dimensional coordinates of the specific point, the calculation unit 44 can calculate the area of the installation region 1. This is because if the three-dimensional coordinates are determined, the area of the installation region 1 can be calculated by integral calculation based on the coordinate values.

  The calculation unit 44 outputs the calculated area value to the calculation unit 7. As a result, the design element is calculated in the calculation means 7. Of course, the calculation unit 44 may output the calculated area value to the fourth storage area 116.

  As described above, the area calculation unit 4 can calculate the area of the installation region 1 based on a plurality of images from different positions including the marker 12 in the installation region 1. In particular, since the sign 12 and the installation area 1 are shown in the captured image, the area calculation unit 4 can calculate the area at any location as long as the third storage unit 11 stores the image. In addition, if the installation area is reflected along with the sign, the area of various areas can be calculated by selecting the specific point, so the design maker can select the area flexibly and calculate the area of the area. .

  In addition, the area calculation means 4 can improve the accuracy of area calculation by being based on many images captured from more various positions and angles with respect to the image in which the installation region 1 and the sign 12 are captured. .

  Next, details of elements included in the area calculation means 4 and details of area calculation will be described.

(First image, second image)
FIG. 12 shows an example of the first image and the second image. FIG. 12 is a photograph example of the first image and the second image in the third embodiment of the present invention. Each of the first image and the second image includes a block wall which is the installation area 1 and a sign 12 having a triangular shape. Further, a part of the installation area 1 is surrounded by a line, and the area surrounded by the frame is a target area 15 that is an area calculation target.

  As the first image and the second image in FIG. 12 show, the first image and the second image have the installation area 1 and the sign 12 from different angles.

(Reading part)
The reading unit 41 reads an image stored in the first storage area 113 as shown in FIG. For example, the reading unit 41 includes a data reading device provided in an HDD or a DVD drive, software for driving the reading device, and the like. When the storage device 100 is a semiconductor memory or an optical disk, the reading unit 41 designates an address including an image to be read and reads data corresponding to the address.

  Means and configuration for reading by the reading unit 41 may be a known technique or a commonly used technique. Further, the reading unit 41 is not limited to data reading, and may write data. The reading unit 41 reads the first image and the second image shown in FIG. The reading unit 41 outputs the read data of the first image and the second image to the imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42.

(Imaging device coordinate estimation unit)
The imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42 estimates three-dimensional coordinate values based on the global coordinates of the first position where the first imaging device 13a is arranged and the second position where the second imaging device 13b is arranged. The imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42 estimates the values of the three-dimensional coordinates of the first position and the second position using the sign 12. Based on the values of the three-dimensional coordinates of the first position and the second position, the value of the three-dimensional coordinates of the specific point in the installation area 1 can be estimated.

  Here, the imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42 estimates the direction of the first imaging device 13a with respect to the marker 12 as the first direction based on the inclination of the marker 12 in the first image. Next, the imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42 estimates the distance between the first imaging device 13a and the marker 12 as the first distance based on the area of the marker 12 in the first image.

  Similarly, the imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42 estimates the direction of the second imaging device 13b relative to the marker 12 as the second direction based on the inclination of the marker 12 in the second image. Next, the imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42 estimates the distance between the second imaging device 13b and the marker 12 as the second distance based on the area of the marker 12 in the second image.

  Note that the imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42 estimates the direction between the imaging device and the marker 12 with reference to a specific part (pointer) included in the marker 12. For this reason, the sign 12 needs to have a pointer. In particular, since it is necessary to detect the inclination from the pointer, the indicator 12 needs to have three or more pointers.

  The imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42 estimates the value of the three-dimensional coordinate of the first position based on the first direction and the first distance, and the three-dimensional coordinate of the second position based on the second direction and the second distance. Estimate the value of. At this time, the imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42 uses the inclination and area of the sign 12 shown in the first image and the second image. For this reason, it is preferable that the label | marker 12 has the structure which can calculate the inclination and area easily only in the state which moved to the image.

  For example, it is preferable that the sign 12 has a known shape and area, and has a shape in which the entire shape of the sign 12 and the area in the image can be easily calculated. In addition, it is preferable that the sign 12 has a shape that allows the inclination of the sign 12 to be easily determined only by an image.

(About signs)
FIG. 13 is a front view of the sign according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. As described above, FIG. 13 shows an example in which the sign 12 is easily recognized in the image. Of course, the shape and configuration of the sign 12 are not limited to the shape and configuration shown in FIG.

  The sign 12 has three or more pointers. In FIG. 13, the sign 12 has three pointers 121, 122, and 123. The sign 12 has a substantially triangular shape with the three pointers 121, 122, 123 as vertices by a rod-shaped member that connects the three pointers 121, 122, 123 together. At this time, the triangle forming the marker 12 has a predetermined area that is known. If the original area of the sign 12 is known and the area of the sign 12 in the image (that is, the area of the triangle) is calculated, the sign from the imaging device is calculated based on the scale ratio between the calculated area and the original area. A distance up to 12 can be calculated.

  In addition, since the sign 12 has a triangle as shown in FIG. 13, the sign 12 has an area with a minimum number of vertices. Cheap.

  Thus, since the sign 12 has a triangle having the three pointers 121, 122, 123 as vertices, (1) the sign 12 in the image can be easily and reliably determined. (2) In the image of the sign 12 It is easy to calculate the area in (3). The advantage is that the distance from the imaging device to the sign 12 can be easily calculated by comparing the area of the sign 12 in the image with the actual area of the sign 12. .

  Further, the imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42 estimates the direction between the imaging device and the sign 12 from the inclination of the sign 12 in the image. For example, in the first image of FIG. 12, the sign 12 is tilted to the right when viewed from the front. On the other hand, in the second image of FIG. 12, the sign 12 is tilted to the left as viewed from the front. Whether the first image or the second image is inclined, it can be easily determined how the sign 12 is inclined. It is important for the imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42 to be able to easily and reliably determine the inclination of the marker 12 in estimating the direction between the imaging device and the marker 12.

  Here, it is also preferable that the three pointers 121, 122, and 123 have different chromaticities. Since the chromaticities are different from each other, the discrimination of the marker 12 in the image is ensured. In particular, since the imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42 estimates the directions of the imaging device and the marker 12 based on the pointers 121, 122, and 123, the pointers 121, 122, and 123 can be reliably distinguished from each other. preferable. Since the chromaticities of the pointers 121, 122, and 123 are different from each other, the pointers 121, 122, and 123 shown in the image can be individually distinguished.

  Each of the three pointers 121, 122, 123 preferably has a substantially spherical shape.

  The imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42 estimates the direction from the imaging device with reference to each of the pointers 121, 122, and 123 included in the sign 12. For this reason, the imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42 needs to be able to reliably recognize the pointer in the image regardless of the manner in which the sign 12 is reflected in the image. At this time, since each of the pointers 121, 122, and 123 has a substantially spherical shape, the shape of the pointers 121, 122, and 123 does not change regardless of the angle at which the marker 12 is captured (shown in the image). In shape). For this reason, the imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42 can reliably recognize the sign 12 from the image.

  Actually, the direction and distance between the pointer and the imaging device are calculated when the user selects the pointer in the displayed first image or second image. At this time, if the shape of the pointer differs depending on the angle being imaged, accurate selection cannot be made. Since the pointer has a substantially spherical shape, the pointer can be accurately selected without depending on the angle at which the image is captured (without using a different image).

  As described above, the pointers 121, 122, and 123 have different chromaticities or have a substantially spherical shape, so that (1) the pointer in the image can be easily and reliably determined. (2) the image (3) Since the pointer can be accurately selected, there is a merit that the direction of the imaging device with respect to the sign 12 can be reliably estimated.

  The imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42 estimates the direction of the first imaging device 13a with respect to the marker 12 from each of the pointers 121, 122, and 123 shown in the first image. Similarly, the imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42 estimates the direction of the second imaging device 13b with respect to the marker 12 from each of the pointers 121, 122, and 123 shown in the second image.

  FIG. 14 shows a state in which the direction of the imaging device relative to the marker 12 is estimated. FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of direction estimation of the imaging apparatus according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

  The sign 12 has three pointers 121, 122, and 123. The first image pickup device 13a arranged at the first position picks up the first image and is arranged at the second position. 13b images a second image.

  The imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42 selects the pointer 121, the pointer 122, and the pointer 123 in the first image, and sets the inclination of the plane formed by each of the pointers 121, 122, and 123 (the triangular plane of the sign 12). calculate. By this inclination, the first direction with respect to the marker 12 of the first imaging device 13a is estimated. Note that the imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42 may estimate the first direction based on a table that clearly indicates the correlation between the shape of the sign 12 in the image and the inclination of the sign 12.

  Similarly, the imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42 selects the pointers 121, 122, and 123 in the second image, and the inclination of the plane formed by each of the pointers 121, 122, and 123 (the triangular plane of the sign 12). Is calculated. Based on this inclination, the second direction with respect to the marker 12 of the first imaging device 13b is estimated. Note that the second direction may also be estimated based on a table that clearly shows the correlation between the shape of the sign 12 in the image and the inclination of the sign 12.

  As shown in FIG. 14, both the first direction and the second direction are estimated by a vector connecting each point of the pointers 121, 122, and 123 and the imaging device.

  Next, the imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42 estimates the distance from the imaging device to the marker 12 from a comparison between the area of the marker 12 in the image and the area of the original marker 12. FIG. 15 shows the state of distance estimation. FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram illustrating estimation of the distance between the imaging device and the sign according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

  As is clear from FIG. 15, the imaging apparatus images the sign 12 while maintaining the linearity. Therefore, the distance from the imaging apparatus to the sign 12 is the area of the sign 12 at the position of the imaging apparatus (a known unique area). And the area of the marker 12 calculated in the image.

  The imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42 calculates the area of the sign 12 in the first image and compares it with the known area, and estimates the distance from the first imaging device 13a to the sign 12 as the first distance. Similarly, the imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42 calculates the area of the marker 12 in the second image and compares it with the known area, and estimates the distance from the second imaging device 13b to the marker 12 as the second distance. .

  If the direction and distance of the first imaging device 13a with reference to the marker 12 are known, the two-dimensional coordinates in the image of the first imaging device 13a are converted into global three-dimensional coordinates with the marker 12 as a reference. That is, the value of the three-dimensional coordinates of the first position is obtained. Similarly, if the direction and distance of the second imaging device 13b with reference to the sign 12 are known, the two-dimensional coordinates in the image of the second imaging device 13b are converted into global three-dimensional coordinates with reference to the sign 12. The

  From this, the imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42 estimates the value of the three-dimensional coordinates of the first position from the first direction and the first distance, and the three-dimensional coordinates of the second direction, the second distance, and the empty second position. Estimate the value of.

  Through the above processing procedure, the imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42 estimates the values of the three-dimensional coordinates between the first position where the first imaging device 13a is arranged and the second position where the second imaging device 13b is arranged. To do.

(Specific point coordinate estimation unit)
The imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42 outputs the values of the three-dimensional coordinates of the first position and the second position to the specific point coordinate estimation unit 43. The specific point coordinate estimation unit 43 estimates the value of the three-dimensional coordinate of the specific point in the installation area 1 based on the value of the three-dimensional coordinate of the first position and the second position.

  FIG. 16 is a photograph explaining estimation of specific point coordinates in the third embodiment of the present invention. The image shown in FIG. 16 includes an installation area 1 imaged together with the sign 12, and the installation area 1 includes a target area 15 that is a target for calculating an area surrounded by a frame.

  The target area 15 includes a plurality of specific points that are arbitrarily determined. The area of the target area 15 is calculated if the three-dimensional coordinates of the specific point are known. In FIG. 16, the target area 15 is a square area, and four vertices of the target area 15 are specified as four specific points 151, 152, 153, and 154. The specific point may be arbitrarily determined, but may be included at the apex of the target region for ease of area calculation. Alternatively, the specific point may be determined by combining an arbitrary point on the side of the outer frame of the target region and the vertex.

  Actually, the user selects an arbitrary point as a specific point on the image (image illustrated in FIG. 16) displayed on the display means.

  The specific point coordinate estimation unit 43 estimates the direction from the first position and the direction from the second position for each of the specific points 151, 152, 153, and 154. For example, the direction from the first position and the direction from the second position with respect to one specific point 151 are estimated. At this time, since each of the first position and the second position has a three-dimensional coordinate value, the direction to the specific point 151 is estimated based on the three-dimensional coordinate value. Furthermore, the specific point coordinate estimation unit 43 obtains the value of the three-dimensional coordinates of the intersection of the direction from the first position and the direction from the second position. The value of the three-dimensional coordinate of the intersection is the value of the three-dimensional coordinate of the specific point 151 to be obtained.

  FIG. 17 shows a state of estimation of the three-dimensional coordinates of the specific point. FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram for explaining estimation of three-dimensional coordinates of a specific point in the third embodiment of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 17, a line 51 indicating the direction from the first imaging device 13a (first position) to the specific point 151 and a line indicating the direction from the second imaging device 13b (second position) to the specific point 151. 52 is drawn. As is clear from FIG. 17, the line 51 and the line 52 intersect at a certain position. This position is the intersection point 156. The line 51 is a line connecting the specific point 151 shown in the first image and the first position, and the line 52 is a line connecting the specific point 151 shown in the second image and the second position. The three-dimensional coordinates of the specific point 151 cannot be accurately obtained by only a single image depending on the captured angle and position. On the other hand, a common item (intersection) in the direction to the specific point 151 in each image is obtained by a plurality of images having different imaging angles. This intersection point 156 can be closer to the position of the specific point 151 than a single image alone.

  In this way, in each of the first image and the second image, a line connecting the specific point from the first position and a line connecting the specific point from the second position are calculated, and an intersection 156 of the respective lines is calculated. Thus, the three-dimensional coordinates of the specific point (coordinates common to the three-dimensional coordinates of the first position and the second position) are obtained. The intersection point 156 becomes the coordinate position of the specific point 151.

  The specific point coordinate estimation unit 43 also obtains the three-dimensional coordinate values of the remaining specific points 152, 153, and 154.

  Here, the processing for obtaining the three-dimensional coordinates of the specific point based on the two images of the first image and the second image has been described, but based on three or more images (that is, arranged at the third position). The value of the three-dimensional coordinates of the specific point may be calculated (based on the third imaging device).

  The specific points may be some points on the outer frame surrounding the target area, or the side is selected and a number of specific points are selected on the assumption that the sides of the outer frame are a collection of specific points. May be. In any case, the greater the number of specific points, the higher the accuracy of area calculation of the target region in the calculation 44 described later.

  Further, the specific point coordinate estimation unit 43 may estimate the intersection of the straight line from the first position and the straight line from the second position as the position of the specific point, but the direction from the first position to the specific point First, the value of the three-dimensional coordinate of the specific point based on the first position (referred to as the first specific coordinate) is estimated, and then the specification based on the second position is performed based on the direction and distance from the second position to the specific point. After estimating the value of the three-dimensional coordinate of the point (referred to as the second specific coordinate), the value of the three-dimensional coordinate of the specific point may be estimated based on the first specific coordinate and the second specific coordinate.

  At this time, the distance to the installation area 1 including the specific point may be considered to be substantially the same as the distance from the first position or the second position to the sign 12. The direction is determined by the angle between the position selected as the specific point and the coordinates of the first position (second position).

  At this time, when the first specific coordinate and the second specific coordinate match, the value of the first specific coordinate and the second specific coordinate is estimated as the value of the three-dimensional coordinate of the specific point. When the first specific coordinates and the second specific coordinates do not match, as described in the second embodiment, the proximity position between the first specific coordinates and the second specific coordinates is determined as a position that approximates the specific point. It is done.

  As described above, the specific point coordinate estimation unit 43 estimates the three-dimensional coordinates of the specific point and outputs the estimation result to the calculation unit 44.

  The specific point coordinate estimation unit 43 may be realized by hardware, software, or a mixture of hardware and software.

(Calculation unit)
Next, the calculation unit 44 will be described.

  The calculating unit 44 calculates the area of the target region 15 based on the three-dimensional coordinate value of the specific point indicating the target region 15 estimated by the specific point coordinate estimating unit 43.

  The plurality of specific points have a common three-dimensional coordinate value. The area of the target region 15 surrounded by a plurality of specific points can be calculated using three-dimensional coordinates. Since the length of each side forming the target region 15 and the angle formed by the sides are calculated based on the value of the three-dimensional coordinates, the calculation unit 44 calculates the area of the target region 15 using the length and the angle. it can.

  Here, the calculation unit 44 can use various known techniques and known techniques for calculating the area of a region based on the three-dimensional coordinates of points forming the region. These may be referred to various known techniques and known techniques, and will not be described.

  The calculation unit 44 outputs the calculated area value of the target area 15 (which corresponds to the area of the installation area 1 to be obtained in the end) to the calculation means 7. The calculating means 7 uses this area value to calculate the design components.

  Moreover, the design production apparatus 3 may include a display unit, and the area calculated by the area calculation unit 4 may be displayed. In the actual area calculation work, the user reads an image stored in the first storage area 113 using a computer or a key input device such as a dedicated device. The read images are, for example, a first image and a second image as shown in FIG. The user drags each pointer of the sign 12 using the mouse or pointing device in the first image and the second image. By this drag, the imaging device coordinate estimation unit 42 is operated, and the value of the three-dimensional coordinates of the first position, which is the position where the first image is captured, and the three-dimensional position of the second position, where the second image is captured. A coordinate value is estimated.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 16, the user uses the mouse or pointing device to specify specific points 151, 152, 153, and 154 that specify the target area 15 in the first image or the second image. Drag. As a result of this dragging, the specific point coordinate estimating means is operated, and the values of the three-dimensional coordinates of the specific points 151, 152, 153, 154 are estimated. Further, the calculation unit 44 operates to calculate the area of the target region 15 formed by the specific points 151, 152, 153, and 154. In both cases, the drag on the image with the mouse or pointing device is due to the determination of the coordinate value in the image.

  As described above, when the area calculation means 4 (design production apparatus 3) is mounted on a general-purpose personal computer or a dedicated apparatus, the user needs to make necessary points (such as the pointer of the sign 12 or the sign 12) in the displayed image. The area of the target area 15 (that is, the installation area 1) can be calculated simply by designating the specific point of the target area 15.

  In addition, the area calculation unit 4 may use a third image having an angle different from the imaging angle of the first image and the second image of the target region 1 in order to increase the accuracy of area calculation. At this time, the area calculation means 4 calculates the area of the installation region 1 using also the value of the three-dimensional coordinates of the third position obtained from the third image of the installation region 1.

  Further, the specific point coordinate estimation unit 43 estimates the three-dimensional coordinates of the specific point from the first position and the second position. At this time, the intersection of the straight line extending from the first toward the specific point and the straight line extending from the second position toward the specific point is estimated as the position of the specific point. At this time, not only the intersection from the two positions of the first position and the second position, but also based on the third position, the three-dimensional coordinates of the specific point can be estimated with high accuracy. That is, based on three or more captured images from different angles, the specific point coordinate estimation unit 43 can estimate the three-dimensional coordinates of the specific point with high accuracy.

  As described above, the area of the target region of the subject is calculated with high accuracy by estimating the three-dimensional coordinates of the specific point not only from the two imaging positions but also from three or more imaging positions.

  Here, it may occur that each straight line formed from each imaging position to a specific point does not intersect at one point but is twisted. The straight line from the first position to the specific point is determined by the direction and distance between the specific point selected in the image and the first position, and the straight line from the second position to the specific point is the specific point selected in the image. And the direction and distance from the second position. At this time, the specific point indicates the position selected by the user in the image that is a plane, and is not necessarily the same position as the original specific point that is uniquely determined in three dimensions. For this reason, the straight line formed from the first position to the specific point (specific point selected in the image) and the straight line formed from the second position to the specific point (specific point selected in the image) intersect. Not happening can happen.

  When the twist occurs, the three-dimensional coordinates of the specific point are estimated by approximation.

  For the approximation, a simple approximation or an approximation based on a metered average is used. An intersection of a straight line extending from the first position toward the specific point and a straight line extending from the second position toward the specific point, a straight line extending from the second position toward the specific point, and from the third position toward the specific point The specific point can be approximated by performing approximation based on the separation distance from the intersection of the straight lines extending in this manner. An approximation with a weighted average may be used.

  It is also preferable that the area calculating means 4 calculates at least one of the error rate of the area to be calculated and the error range of the area based on the estimation accuracy of the specific point.

  When the straight line from the first position to the specific point does not intersect with the straight line from the second position to the specific point, the specific point coordinate estimation unit 43 calculates the amount of mismatch caused by the non-intersection. Alternatively, the amount of mismatch between the first specific coordinates and the second specific coordinates is calculated.

  When the straight line from the first position to the specific point and the straight line from the second position to the specific point do not intersect, a separation amount of each straight line is generated. The specific point coordinate estimation unit 43 calculates a proximity point at a position where the straight line from the first position and the straight line from the second position are close to each other. At this time, the distance between the two straight lines at the position where the proximity point is calculated is calculated. The large separation amount indicates that the calculation accuracy of the proximity point calculated as the approximate position of the specific point is low, and the small separation amount indicates that the calculation accuracy of the proximity point calculated as the approximate position of the specific point is high. Show. In other words, it indicates the estimation accuracy of a specific point. A high estimation accuracy of the three-dimensional coordinates of the specific point indicates that the calculation accuracy of the area calculated by the calculation unit 44 is high. Conversely, a low estimation accuracy of the three-dimensional coordinates of the specific point indicates that the calculation accuracy of the area calculated by the calculation unit 44 is low.

  The specific point coordinate estimation unit 43 calculates the separation amount as a mismatch amount.

  Alternatively, the specific point coordinate estimation unit 43 uses the first specific coordinates determined by the direction and distance from the first position to the specific point and the second specific coordinates (or the second specific distance determined by the direction and distance from the second position to the specific point). When the three-dimensional coordinates of the specific point are estimated based on (including the third specific coordinate and thereafter), the difference value between the value of the first specific coordinate and the value of the second specific coordinate is calculated as a mismatch amount.

  The calculation unit 44 calculates the error rate of the area of the target region to be calculated based on the mismatch amount. For example, the calculation unit 44 calculates an area error rate by multiplying the mismatch amount by the calculated area. Alternatively, the error rate is calculated based on the relationship between the level value (level evaluation from level 1 to level 5 depending on the amount of mismatch) and the area value, not the absolute value. For example, if the discrepancy amount is level 1 when the area is within a predetermined range, the error rate is defined as 1%. If the discrepancy amount is level 2, the error rate is defined as 2%. To do.

  Alternatively, the calculated area may be calculated by clearly indicating an area error range, such as “a range from ** square meters to XX square meters”. This is because the convenience of the user is further increased by specifying the error range.

  As described above, the specific point coordinate estimation unit 43 calculates the mismatch amount, and the calculation unit 44 calculates the error rate. The calculated error rate is displayed on the display unit 16 together with the calculated area. Displaying the error rate increases the convenience for the user.

The design production apparatus 3 including the area calculation unit 4 as described above can calculate the components of the design while calculating the area of the installation area 1 only from the photograph of the installation area 1.
The storage device 100 is positioned in such a design production system, and the information collection work by the field engineer and the design production work can be separated and arranged in parallel, so that the optimum design for various outdoor installation areas 1 is achieved. Can be produced effectively.

  The storage devices described in the first to third embodiments are examples for explaining the gist of the present invention, and include modifications and alterations without departing from the gist of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Installation area 2 Building 3 Design production apparatus 4 Area calculation means 5 Reading part 6 Output part 7 Calculation means 12 Marking 121, 122, 123 Pointer 13 Imaging device 15 Target area 16 Portable terminal 100 Storage device 111 Input means 112 Output means 113 First storage area 114 Second storage area 115 Third storage area 116 Fourth storage area 117 Fifth storage area

Claims (16)

An input means for receiving information;
A first storage area for storing an image of an installation area in which the design is produced;
A second storage area for storing peripheral information of the installation area;
A third storage area for storing a plurality of original images of the design used in the installation area;
A storage device used for producing a design comprising output means for outputting at least one of the image, the peripheral information, and the original picture as calculation conditions to a calculation means for calculating a component of the design.   The surrounding information includes at least one information of a position of the installation area, a building around the installation area, a material of the installation area, a direction of the installation area, an angle of the installation area, and a height of the installation area. The storage device according to claim 1, further comprising:   The component is necessary for an original picture selected as a design produced in the installation area among the plurality of original pictures, an amount of paint necessary for a design produced in the installation area, and a design produced in the installation area. At least one of cost, brightness suitable for a design manufactured in the installation area, chromaticity suitable for a design manufactured in the installation area, and a position of a character string in the design manufactured in the installation area, The storage device according to claim 1 or 2.   The storage device according to claim 1, wherein the peripheral information and the image are obtained from the input unit.   5. The storage device according to claim 1, further comprising a fourth storage area that stores an area of the installation area calculated based on the image by an area calculation unit.   The storage device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a fifth storage area for storing a component of the design calculated by the calculation means.   The first storage area, the second storage area, the third storage area, the fourth storage area, and the fifth storage area are each divided into different address areas, and the first storage area and the second storage area The area and the third storage area are located in a first hierarchy in the address area, and the fourth storage area and the fifth storage area are located in a second hierarchy in the address area. One of the storage devices.   The storage device according to claim 1, wherein the input unit is capable of receiving information from a portable terminal that acquires at least one of the image and the peripheral information.   The calculation means selects an original picture as a design produced in the installation area from among the plurality of original pictures, calculates a paint amount necessary for a design produced in the installation area, and a design produced in the installation area. Calculation of the cost necessary for the design, brightness calculation suitable for the design manufactured in the installation area, calculation of chromaticity suitable for the design manufactured in the installation area, and the character string in the design manufactured in the installation area The storage device according to claim 6, wherein at least one of position determination is performed.   The storage device according to claim 9, wherein the calculation unit outputs at least one of a design sample and a design image based on the component calculated by the calculation unit.   The storage device according to claim 10, further comprising a sixth storage area for storing at least one of the design sample and the design image. The image includes a first image including the installation area and a sign imaged by the first imaging device, and the installation area and the sign imaged by a second imaging device from an angle different from that of the first imaging device. Having a second image including,
The area calculating means includes
An imaging device coordinate estimation unit for estimating a value of a three-dimensional coordinate of the first position of the first imaging device and a value of a three-dimensional coordinate of the second position of the second imaging device;
Based on the first position and the second position, a specific point coordinate estimation unit that estimates the value of each three-dimensional coordinate of a plurality of specific points included in the installation area;
A calculation unit that calculates the area of the installation region based on the value of the three-dimensional coordinates of each of the plurality of specific points;
The storage device according to claim 6, wherein the sign has a two-dimensional shape including three or more pointers.   The storage device according to claim 12, wherein the marker has a triangular shape having apexes of the three pointers having different chromaticities and having a substantially spherical shape. The imaging device coordinate estimation unit
Based on the inclination of the sign included in the first image, the direction of the first imaging device relative to the sign is estimated as a first direction,
Based on the area of the sign included in the first image, the distance between the first imaging device and the sign is estimated as a first distance,
Based on the inclination of the sign included in the second image, the direction of the second imaging device relative to the sign is estimated as a second direction,
Based on the area of the sign included in the second image, the distance between the second imaging device and the sign is estimated as a second distance,
Estimating the first position based on the first direction and the first distance;
The storage device according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the second position is estimated based on the second direction and the second distance. The first specific coordinate that is the value of the three-dimensional coordinate of the specific point obtained from the first position matches the second specific coordinate that is the value of the three-dimensional coordinate of the specific point obtained from the second position. If not,
The storage device according to claim 12, wherein the specific point coordinate estimation unit approximates a value of a three-dimensional coordinate of the specific point from the first specific coordinate and the second specific coordinate. A portable terminal that acquires at least one of the image and the peripheral information;
A storage device according to any one of claims 1 to 7;
Area calculating means for calculating the area of the installation region based on the image;
A design production system for calculating a component of a design produced in the installation area based on at least one of the area calculated by the area calculation means, the peripheral information stored in the storage device, and the original image.