JP4059455B2 - Image processing apparatus and method, and computer-readable memory - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus and method for managing image data, and a computer-readable memory.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Conventionally, a photographic image captured from an image capturing device such as a digital camera or a film scanner is pasted on a layout template prepared in advance, and the result is displayed on a display device such as a TV without using an electronic device such as a personal computer. Alternatively, in an electronic album apparatus that outputs to a printing device such as a printer, an operator creates a layout for pasting a photographic image and pastes the photographic image on an electronic device such as a personal computer.
[0003]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, the above-described conventional electronic album apparatus has a layout that is fixed and lacks flexibility because it has a default layout template inside the device. Also, when pasting a photo image, the layout template and photo image must be specified in advance, or if the photo image is larger than the size of the destination area, the photo image will be automatically Operation was limited, such as being cut. As described above, the conventional electronic album device is difficult to operate, and the operator is forced to have a great deal of capacity and time. In addition, the operability is limited and lacks flexibility.
[0004]
The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and provides a flexible image processing apparatus and method, and a computer-readable memory that are easy to operate on photographic images managed in an electronic album and have a high degree of flexibility. For the purpose.
[0005]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to achieve the above object, an image processing apparatus according to the present invention comprises the following arrangement. That is,
Reading means for reading out a designated layout template from a recording medium that records a plurality of types of layout templates including a plurality of image pasting areas;
Link information indicating the link relationship between multiple image data According to the ranking when the plurality of image data is sorted Setting means for setting;
Storage means for storing a plurality of image pasting areas and a plurality of image data of the layout template read by the reading means in association with each other according to the link information set by the setting means;
Input means for inputting a switching instruction for switching the layout template;
When a switching instruction is input by the input unit, the correspondence between the plurality of image data stored in the storage unit and the plurality of image pasting areas of the layout template is newly read by the reading unit by the switching instruction. A changing means for changing based on a plurality of image pasting areas of the layout template,
Based on the correspondence changed by the changing means, image developing means for developing an image in which the plurality of image data is arranged in the image pasting area of the layout template;
Display control means for displaying the image on a display unit;
Is provided.
[0006]
Preferably, the input means further inputs an image switching instruction for switching the image data,
The changing unit further changes the correspondence based on link information of new image data designated by the image switching instruction when an image switching instruction is input by the input unit.
[0007]
Preferably, the setting means further sets skip information indicating whether or not the image data is skipped,
The input means further inputs a skip switching instruction for the image data,
The changing unit further changes the correspondence based on skip information set in the image data when a skip switching instruction is input by the input unit.
[0012]
In order to achieve the above object, an image processing method according to the present invention comprises the following arrangement. That is,
A reading step for reading a designated layout template from a recording medium for recording a plurality of types of layout templates including a plurality of image pasting areas;
The setting means displays link information indicating a link relationship between a plurality of image data. According to the ranking when the plurality of image data is sorted A setting process to set;
A storage step of storing a plurality of image pasting areas and a plurality of image data of the layout template read out in the reading step in association with each other in accordance with the link information set in the setting step. When,
An input step for inputting a switching instruction for switching the layout template;
When a switching instruction is input by the input step, the changing unit newly sets the correspondence between the plurality of image data stored in the storage medium and the plurality of image pasting areas of the layout template by the reading step by the switching instruction. A changing step for changing based on a plurality of image pasting areas of the layout template read in
An image development step for developing an image in which the plurality of image data is arranged in the image pasting area of the layout template, based on the correspondence changed by the changing step;
A display control step for displaying the image on a display unit;
Is provided.
[0013]
In order to achieve the above object, a computer readable memory according to the present invention comprises the following arrangement. That is,
A reading step for reading a designated layout template from a recording medium for recording a plurality of types of layout templates including a plurality of image pasting areas;
The setting means displays link information indicating a link relationship between a plurality of image data. According to the ranking when the plurality of image data is sorted A setting process to set;
A storage step of storing a plurality of image pasting areas and a plurality of image data of the layout template read out in the reading step in association with each other in accordance with the link information set in the setting step. When,
An input step for inputting a switching instruction for switching the layout template;
When a switching instruction is input by the input step, the changing unit newly sets the correspondence between the plurality of image data stored in the storage medium and the plurality of image pasting areas of the layout template by the reading step by the switching instruction. A changing step for changing based on a plurality of image pasting areas of the layout template read in
An image development step for developing an image in which the plurality of image data is arranged in the image pasting area of the layout template, based on the correspondence changed by the changing step;
A display control step for displaying the image on a display unit;
A computer-readable memory storing a computer program, wherein the computer program is executed by a computer.
[0014]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.
[0015]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a basic configuration of an electronic album apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0016]
As shown in FIG. 1, the electronic album apparatus includes a CPU 110, a ROM 120, a key driver 130, a RAM 140, an external communication driver 150, an external media driver 160, a printing unit 170, and a display unit 180.
[0017]
The CPU 110 executes various programs described in the ROM 120 and controls various components of the electronic album device. The ROM 120 stores a program for executing various functions including a main program for controlling the electronic album device. It also stores default image data and font data.
[0018]
When a key input such as a layout template switching instruction, a photo image data specifying instruction, and a print execution instruction is input, or a key necessary for other processing is input, the key driver 130 captures the input and sorts the processes. . Key input can also be performed by a remote controller. In this case, a signal sent from the remote controller is received and processing is distributed.
[0019]
The RAM 140 stores a layout template read from an external medium, layout information obtained by analyzing the layout template, and image / font data associated with the layout template. In addition, when the photographic image data is supplied from an external medium, the specified photographic image data is also developed and stored. Furthermore, when layout templates and photographic image data are supplied through an external communication cable, this data is also stored. Furthermore, it is used as a buffer and work memory necessary for other processing.
[0020]
When the layout template and the accompanying image / font data and photographic image data are supplied through the external communication cable, the external communication driver 150 performs all the processes necessary to receive these data. When data is provided from the electronic album device, all processes necessary for sending the data are performed.
[0021]
When the layout template and the accompanying image / font data and photographic image data are supplied from an external medium, the external media driver 160 performs all processes necessary for reading the data. When data is stored from the electronic album device, all processes necessary for writing the data are performed.
[0022]
The display unit 180 performs all processes necessary for displaying the result of pasting the photographic image data based on the layout template on a display device such as a display. The printing unit 170 performs all processes necessary for printing the result displayed on the display unit according to the print execution instruction. As shown in FIG. 2, the printing unit 170 can be configured to print with the external printer 200 via a printer cable by changing the printing unit 170 to a printer driver 170a.
[0023]
Next, the functional configuration of the electronic album apparatus according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
[0024]
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the electronic album apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention.
[0025]
In FIG. 3, 21 is a layout template for display / printing. A photographic image taken by a digital camera, a photographic image read by an image reading device such as a scanner, and image data pasted around the photographic image An image pasting area of font data is described and stored in a storage area of a storage medium such as an external medium or a ROM 120 in the electronic album apparatus. Reference numeral 11 denotes a template designating unit for designating a specific layout template. Reference numeral 13 denotes a photographic image specifying unit for specifying a photographic image to be pasted on the layout template. A layout template reading unit 22 reads a layout template from the external medium when the designated layout template is stored in the external medium.
[0026]
A layout analysis unit 23 analyzes the contents of the layout template. An image / font data storage area 31 stores photographic image data and image data / font data. An image / font data management unit 32 manages image / font data. The image / font data management unit 32 includes an expansion unit 33 for expanding the image / font data when the image / font data is compressed, and the image / font data rotation direction when the rotation direction of the image / font data is designated. A rotation unit 34 that rotates font data in a specified direction, and a cutting unit 35 that cuts an image / font data at the specified position when a cutting position of the image / font data is specified; An enlargement / reduction unit 36 that enlarges / reduces image / font data at the designated magnification when the enlargement / reduction magnification of the font data is designated.
[0027]
A layout management unit 41 outputs image / font data to the display unit 180 or the printing unit 170 based on the analyzed layout information. Reference numeral 51 denotes a display management unit, which manages display when image / font data is pasted on the display layout template on the display unit 180. A display execution unit 52 displays a layout template, photographic image data, image / font data, and the like on the display unit 180. Reference numeral 61 denotes a layout print management unit. When a print execution instruction is given by the print instruction unit 12, the designated photographic image data is pasted on a layout on a recording medium to be printed by the printing unit 170. A print execution unit 62 prints a layout template, photographic image data, image / font data, and the like by the printing unit 170.
[0028]
Next, an outline of processing executed in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an outline of processing executed in the embodiment of the present invention.
[0029]
In the electronic album device of the present invention, the designated layout template shown in 9-1 is read, and the layout of the image pasting area of the read layout template is analyzed. In this case, 61 to 67 are analyzed as image pasting areas. Then, the electronic album is displayed and printed by pasting the photographic image data to the designated image pasting area in the analyzed layout. Since the read data indicating the layout template is described in a one-dimensional page description language, it is converted into a two-dimensional data description by layout analysis and developed into an image.
[0030]
For example, when switching from the layout template shown in 9-1 to the layout template shown in 9-2 is performed according to the layout template switching instruction, only the layout template is changed. Next, another layout template whose designation has been changed is read, and the read layout template is analyzed again. Then, the photographic image data specified before switching to the designated image pasting area is pasted.
[0031]
In addition, when switching from the photographic image data pasted to the layout template shown in 9-2 to the photographic image data shown in 9-3 according to the photographic image data switching instruction, the photographic image data is not switched without switching the layout template. Only make changes. That is, the photographic image data to be switched is pasted to the designated photographic image data in the image pasting area of the layout template shown in 9-2.
[0032]
Next, a processing flow of processing executed in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
[0033]
FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a processing flow of processing executed in the embodiment of the present invention.
[0034]
First, when the power is turned on, initial processing for performing various initializations is performed in step S100. Details of the initial processing will be described with reference to FIG.
[0035]
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing details of the initial processing according to the embodiment of the present invention.
[0036]
First, in step S110, a system initial process for performing initialization necessary for starting up the electronic album apparatus is performed. In step S120, a photographic image information setting process for setting various information necessary for pasting the photographic image data in the photographic image data storage area on the layout template is performed. This photo image data storage area is provided in the internal memory (such as the RAM 140) of the electronic album apparatus or an external medium, and can be accessed simply by switching the memory device destination of the system that controls the electronic album apparatus. Here, details of the photographic image information record constituting the photographic image data will be described with reference to FIG.
[0037]
FIG. 7 is a diagram showing details of the photographic image information record according to the embodiment of the present invention.
[0038]
In FIG. 7, the photographic image information record is composed of seven areas, and the first two areas 700 and 701 are areas indicating the link relationship of photographic image data files in the photographic image data storage area. In these areas, the link relationship when the photo image data files are sorted in order of date or the like is described by a forward link (Prep of area 700) and a backward link (Next of area 701). An area 702 is a skip information area in which information necessary for skipping photographic image data by date or the like is described. An area 703 is a rotation information area, which is referred to when developing photographic image data, and describes rotation information related to the rotation direction of the photographic image data. An area 704 is a cutout information area, in which cutout range information referred to when the cut out portion of the photographic image data is expanded is described. An area 705 is a zoom magnification information area, and describes zoom magnification information related to the zoom magnification when the photographic image data is enlarged / reduced. An area 706 is a pointer area, in which a pointer indicating an area in which a file name indicating photographic image data in the photographic image data storage area is described. Then, based on the file name described in this area 706, the photographic image data is called and expanded.
[0039]
Returning to the description of FIG.
[0040]
In step S130, a template setting process for specifying a layout template for pasting photographic image data and calling it onto the RAM 140 is performed. The layout template called up on the RAM 140 is stored in a layout template storage area, and is prepared in a built-in memory (ROM / RAM) or an external medium. This layout template storage area, like the photographic image data storage area, can be accessed simply by switching the memory device destination of the system.
[0041]
Here, the data structure stored in the layout template storage area will be described with reference to FIG.
[0042]
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a data configuration stored in the layout template storage area according to the embodiment of the present invention.
[0043]
In the layout template storage area, there are a template information file that describes the layout template that is activated at initial startup, the layout template name that jumps to the layout template that is started from the layout template list, and the layout template that expands the image paste area Two types of files are stored. As a result, when a layout template is activated from the layout template list, the selected layout template can be activated by matching the selection number in the layout template list with the order in the template information file. In the case of initial activation, it can be activated simply by specifying the selection number of the layout template for initial activation.
[0044]
On the other hand, the layout template is composed of a header part and a layout data body part, and the layout template step switching destination and the skip switching destination layout template name are described in the header part. In the layout data main body portion, layout data constituting the layout template is described. As a result, when the layout template is switched, it is possible to switch to the designated layout template and to read the layout template onto the RAM 140. When the initial process including the processes from step S110 to step S130 described above is completed, the process proceeds to step S200 shown in FIG. 5 to perform a template development process.
[0045]
Details of the template development processing will be described with reference to FIG.
[0046]
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing details of the template development processing according to the embodiment of the present invention.
[0047]
First, in step S210, layout analysis processing for analyzing the layout of the image pasting area of the layout template read onto the RAM 140 is performed. In step S220, based on the analyzed layout information, the layout data is developed into an image on a display buffer (not shown) in the display unit 180 or a print buffer (not shown) in the printing unit 170. Perform information expansion processing. In step S221, it is determined whether there is undeveloped layout information. If it exists (YES in step S221), the process returns to step S220. On the other hand, if it does not exist (NO in step S221), the process ends. As described above, in the layout information expansion process, image expansion is performed on all the data of the layout information, and the process is repeated until the image expansion of all the data is completed. Here, the layout image of the layout template to be analyzed and the description of the layout information created as a result of the layout analysis will be described with reference to FIG.
[0048]
FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the layout image of the layout template and the description of the layout information thereof according to the embodiment of the present invention.
[0049]
The layout information is composed of four areas. An area 1000 is a flag area, and a flag indicating the type of data developed in the image pasting area is described. In the area 1001, the head position of the image pasting area is described. The area 1002 describes the size of the image pasting area. An area 1003 is a pointer area, in which a pointer indicating an area in which detailed information of data developed in the image pasting area is stored is described. All the detailed information of the data is stored in the detailed information storage area. When the data developed in the layout area is only photographic image data, only the Photo flag is set in the flag area 1000, and Null is set in the pointer area 1003. When image or font data is first developed and photographic image data is developed on top of it, a Photo flag and a data flag (Image flag or Font flag) are set in the flag area 1000, In the pointer area 1003, a pointer to detailed information of data to be developed is set. As a result, two types of development are possible: display and printing of only the image data pasted on the layout template, and display and printing in which the image data is replaced with photographic image data.
[0050]
Next, details of the layout information expansion processing will be described with reference to FIG.
[0051]
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing details of layout information expansion processing according to the embodiment of the present invention.
[0052]
First, in step S221, a development area acquisition process for acquiring a development area (the head of the area and the size of the area) in the layout information is performed. In step S222, development information default setting processing for performing default setting of development information of image / font data is performed. As the default setting contents, no rotation direction, no cut-out, and a zoom magnification of 100% are set. Next, in step S223, detailed information check processing is performed to check the data type of the data to be expanded and the presence / absence check of detailed information.
[0053]
If Null is set in the pointer to the detailed information (layout information area 1003) in step S223, it is determined that there is no detailed information, the process proceeds to step S224, and a file indicating default image data for developing the default image Set the name. When the default image data name is set, the process advances to step S226 to perform image development processing for developing the image data.
[0054]
In step S223, the data type of the development data is checked. If the data type is image data (the content of the area 1000 of the layout information is an Image flag), the pointer set in the area 1003 in step S225. The file name indicating the image data is extracted from the detailed information indicated by, and the image data indicated by the file name is set as the developed image data. When the image file name is set, the process proceeds to step S226, and image expansion processing for expanding the image is performed.
[0055]
In step S223, the data type of the expanded data is checked. If the data type is font data (the content of the layout information area 1000 is the Font flag), the font data is expanded in step S227.
[0056]
Next, details of the image development processing will be described with reference to FIG.
[0057]
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing details of image development processing according to the embodiment of the present invention.
[0058]
First, in step S226-1, image header check processing is performed to check the header of image data to be expanded. As a result of the check, if the type of image data indicated by the header is uncompressed image data, uncompressed image expansion processing for expanding the uncompressed image data is performed in step S226-2. If the type of the image data indicated by the header is compressed image data, a compression / decompression process for expanding the compressed image data is performed in step S226-3.
[0059]
Next, details of the uncompressed image expansion processing will be described with reference to FIG.
[0060]
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing details of uncompressed image expansion processing according to the embodiment of the present invention.
[0061]
First, in step S226-21, a cut range skip process for skipping to the head of the cut range is performed so that the image data of only the cut range is expanded. Next, block call order determination processing is performed in step S226-22. In this case, when the rotation direction of the image data to be developed is designated, the development order of the image data is determined according to the designated rotation direction. Next, in step S226-23, partial block call processing is performed to read out and develop image data in the clipping range based on the determined development order in units of blocks. Next, in step S226-24, scaling processing for enlarging / reducing the called block image data based on the zoom magnification and the development area size is performed. In step S226-25, it is determined whether there is an unprocessed block. If it exists (YES in step S226-25), the process returns to step S226-23. On the other hand, if it does not exist (NO in step S226-25), the process ends. As described above, the partial block calling process and the scaling process are repeatedly executed until all the block image data in the cutout range are developed in the determined order.
[0062]
Next, details of the compressed image expansion processing will be described with reference to FIG.
[0063]
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing details of the compressed image processing according to the embodiment of the present invention.
[0064]
First, in step S226-31, pre-scan search processing for performing pre-scan of compressed image data and registering a block marker for skip-scanning the compressed image data is performed. Next, in step S226-32, a clipping range skip process for skipping to the head of the clipping range is performed so as to expand the image data of only the clipping range. In step S226-33, block call order determination processing is performed to determine the block call order based on the rotation direction of the image data. Next, in step S226-34, partial block call processing is performed in the determined order. In the partial block calling process of the compressed image data, the desired block image data is called after skip scanning to the desired block image data based on the block marker registered in the pre-scan search process. When the desired block image data is called, partial block expansion processing for expanding the called block image data is performed in step S226-35. Partial block expansion processing is performed, and in step S226-36, scaling processing for expanding / reducing the expanded partial block image data based on the zoom magnification and the development area size is performed. In step S226-37, it is determined whether there is an unprocessed block. If it exists (YES in step S226-37), the process returns to step S226-34. On the other hand, if it does not exist (NO in steps S226-37), the process ends. As described above, the partial block calling process, the partial block expansion process, and the scaling process are repeatedly executed until all the block image data designated by the cutout range are expanded.
[0065]
Referring to a specific example of the compressed image decompression process shown in FIG. 14, in the pre-scan search process in step S226-31, for example, as shown in FIG. Register as a block marker to do. As a result, when the block image data is called up in the vertical direction, skip scanning can be performed for each row, and the efficiency of the partial block call processing of the compressed image data can be improved. If other block marker registration items are changed according to the use of the partial block call processing, the optimum partial block call processing can be performed according to the use. In the cut range skip process in step S226-32, for example, as shown in FIG. 16, the offset amount of the skip area is registered as a block marker for each row. As a result, it is possible to reach each row head block in the cutout range with one access, and the efficiency of the partial block call processing can be increased. In the block call order determination processing in step S226-33, for example, as shown in FIG. 17, coordinate conversion is performed on a block basis based on the rotation direction, and the result is determined as the block call order. When image data is rotated, the raster data development direction in the block must be changed based on the rotation direction. This is shown in FIG. This process is performed at a stage before the scaling process is executed.
[0066]
With the above layout information development processing, as shown in FIG. 19, the layout template image can be developed from the layout information after the layout template analysis.
[0067]
When the layout template is developed as described above, a photographic image development process for developing photographic image data is performed in step S300 of FIG.
[0068]
Details of the photographic image development processing will be described with reference to FIG.
[0069]
FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing details of the photographic image expansion processing according to the embodiment of the present invention.
[0070]
First, in step S310, a photographic media exchange check is performed. If the photographic medium is not replaceable or if the medium has not been replaced, the process advances to step S320 to perform a developed photographic image specifying process for specifying photographic image data to be developed in the image pasting area. On the other hand, if the media has been exchanged, the process proceeds to step S311, where the photographic image information setting process for resetting the photographic image information record is performed, and then the developed photographic image specifying process of step S320 is performed. The photographic image information setting process in step S311 is the same process as the photographic image information setting process in step S120 performed at the time of initializing. Next, in the developed photo image specifying process in step S320, the photo image data to be pasted in the first image pasting area in the layout template is specified. In step S331, it is determined whether unprocessed photographic image data exists. If it exists (YES in step S331), the process returns to step S330. On the other hand, if it does not exist (NO in step S331), the process ends. As described above, the photographic image data specified until the photographic image data is pasted in all the image pasting areas set in the layout template or until the photographic image data is completed by the photographic image information expansion processing in step S330. The photographic image data is pasted sequentially. The correspondence between the head image pasting area and the specified photograph image data is performed by storing the ID of the photograph image data pasted in the head image pasting area in the layout template on the RAM 140, and the photograph image information record By following the link state in the middle, it becomes possible to paste photographic image data in the subsequent image pasting area.
[0071]
Next, details of the photographic image information expansion processing will be described with reference to FIG.
[0072]
FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing details of photographic image information expansion processing according to the embodiment of the present invention.
[0073]
First, in step S331, a development area acquisition process for acquiring a development area of photographic image data stored in the layout information is performed. Next, in step S332, development information acquisition processing for acquiring image development information such as rotation information, cropping information, and zoom magnification information stored in the photographic image information record is performed. In step S333, an image file name setting process is performed in which a file name is acquired and set by following a pointer to a file name indicating photographic image data. Based on the information set in this way, image development processing for developing photographic image data is performed in step S334. This image development process is the same as the image development process in step S226, and the photographic image data is developed according to the process flow described in step S226.
[0074]
When a specific example of the photographic image information expansion process of FIG. 21 is shown, for example, as shown in FIG. 22, an area in which the Photo flag is set is searched in the layout information, and photographic image data is sequentially stored in the searched area. By pasting, it is possible to paste photographic image data in the image pasting area where the layout template has been developed. In addition, the photographic image data to be pasted is linked by sequentially following the links from the photographic image data indicating the first photographic image data in the layout template in the order of the searched image pasting area. It will be done.
[0075]
When the photographic image data is pasted on the layout template and the image is developed by the above photographic image information development processing, next, screen display processing for displaying the image on the display unit 170 is performed in step S400 of FIG. . When the screen display process is completed, in step S500, a key wait state is entered, and an instruction input for the next operation is awaited.
[0076]
If a layout template switching instruction is input in step S500, the process advances to step S600 to perform a template setting process for switching the layout template. When the switched layout template is read onto the RAM 140, the process returns to step S200 to perform template expansion processing. The template setting process is the same as the template setting process in step S130 at the time of initializing, and the layout template layout data is read onto the RAM 140 in the process flow described in step S130. However, when the layout template is switched by the layout template switching instruction, the layout plate having the file name described in the header portion of the layout template is called.
[0077]
If a photo switching instruction is input in step S500, the process advances to step S700 to perform photo image specifying processing. The photographic image specifying process is the same as the photographic image specifying process in step S320, and the same process flow as that described in step S320. However, when a photo switching instruction is input, a process of following the link in the photo image data storage area in the switched direction and changing the ID of the first photo image data in the stored layout template is added. In addition, when a skip switching instruction is input, processing for searching for skip information and changing the ID stored up to the ID for which the skip information is set is added.
[0078]
If a print execution instruction is input in step S500, the process proceeds to step S800, and print processing for printing image data developed from the print unit 170 is executed. In the printing process, the image data expanded for display can be enlarged / reduced according to the paper size and printed, or a layout template is prepared for printing. You can also develop the image and print the result. In the present invention, since image data can be expanded in units of partial blocks, it is also possible to partially expand image data in a print band buffer and print it.
[0079]
If an instruction required for other processing is input in step S500, the process proceeds to step S900, and processing corresponding to the input instruction is executed. If a system end instruction is input in step S500, the process proceeds to step S1000, and after the end process is executed, all processes are ended. As described above, according to the present embodiment, the layout management unit 41, the image / font management unit 32, and the photo image specifying unit 13 are based on the layout template 21 in which the image pasting area is laid out in advance in the page. By expanding image data and font data other than photographic image data and pasting photographic image data to the specified image pasting area in the layout template, simple operation of only specifying (switching) photographic image data Can realize an electronic album.
[0080]
Also, not only for electronic albums, but also by preparing a wide variety of layout templates in the layout template 21 and providing the template designating unit 11 and the photo image specifying unit 13, layout template selection operation and photo image selection operation Various operations and displays such as electronic albums can be realized by simply operating.
[0081]
Also, by providing the template reading unit 22, it is possible to provide an abundant layout template by using external media, it is possible to provide as many desired items as possible, and it is possible to provide a simple and flexible operation.
[0082]
Also, by providing the updated layout template 21 by external media, it is possible to provide a layout template that matches the times each time and prevent the electronic album apparatus body from becoming obsolete.
[0083]
In addition, by preparing various layout templates such as calendars, greeting cards, New Year's cards, stickers, etc. in the layout template 21, it is possible to realize applications other than the electronic album apparatus simply by selecting a layout template in the template designating unit 11.
[0084]
Further, by providing the enlargement / reduction unit 36, it is possible to automatically enlarge / reduce the photo image data in accordance with the size of the image pasting area in the layout template, and the protruding portion of the photo image data is not cut out without permission. Photo image data that matches the layout template can be pasted.
[0085]
When the photographic image data does not exist (if not set) by the layout management unit 41 and the image / font management unit 32, the image pasting area in the layout template is checked, and some image / font data is stored in advance. When the image is expanded in this area, the processing is terminated without performing the expansion processing of the photo image data, so that only the layout template can be displayed / printed.
[0086]
Further, when any image / font data is not developed in the image pasting area, it is possible to realize display / printing with good appearance by developing default image data.
[0087]
If the rotation direction is specified for the photo image data, the rotation unit 35 can rotate the image in the specified direction so that both the vertical photo image data and the horizontal photo image data can be easily pasted. Can do.
[0088]
In addition, when the photographic image data is specified to be cut, the cut portion 34 cuts and pastes that portion, thereby making it possible to paste a wider variety of photographic image data.
[0089]
In addition, when photographic image data and other image data and font data are compressed, the expansion unit 33 also performs automatic expansion processing, so that a large amount of data can be stored in the image / font data storage area 31. .
[0090]
In addition, since the image / font decompression unit 33 includes a process of partially decompressing the compressed image / font data, when decompressing the image / font data, the work memory for decompression is reduced. be able to. As a result, when the image / font data is rotated and developed, the order of the parts to be expanded can be changed, and the time required for the expansion process can be reduced.
[0091]
Further, by providing the display management unit 51 and the display execution unit 52, the developed image can be viewed on the display unit 180. Furthermore, by providing the print management unit 61 and the print execution unit 62, it is possible to print the displayed image simply by instructing the print execution by the print execution instruction unit 12.
[0092]
As described above, the photographic image data can be viewed and enjoyed with a simple operation of simply selecting the layout template and the photographic image data, and various outputs incorporating the photographic image data can be responsive.
[0093]
Note that the present invention can be applied to a system (for example, a copier, a facsimile machine, etc.) consisting of a single device even if it is applied to a system composed of a plurality of devices (for example, a host computer, interface device, reader, printer, etc.) You may apply.
[0094]
Another object of the present invention is to supply a storage medium storing software program codes for implementing the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or apparatus, and the computer (or CPU or MPU) of the system or apparatus stores the storage medium. Needless to say, this can also be achieved by reading and executing the program code stored in the.
[0095]
In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.
[0096]
As a storage medium for supplying the program code, for example, a floppy disk, a hard disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a CD-ROM, a CD-R, a magnetic tape, a nonvolatile memory card, a ROM, or the like can be used.
[0097]
Further, by executing the program code read by the computer, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also an OS (operating system) operating on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by performing part or all of the actual processing and the processing is included.
[0098]
Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written into a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, the function expansion is performed based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that the CPU or the like provided in the board or the function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing, and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing.
[0099]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the present invention, the layout template for pasting image data managed in the electronic album can be changed easily and flexibly.
[0100]
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a basic configuration of an electronic album apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing another example of the basic configuration of the electronic album apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the electronic album apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an outline of processing executed in an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a processing flow of processing executed in the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing details of initial processing according to the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 7 is a diagram showing details of a photographic image information record according to the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a data configuration stored in a layout template storage area according to the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing details of template expansion processing according to the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the layout image of the layout template and the description of the layout information thereof according to the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing details of layout information expansion processing according to the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing details of image development processing according to the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing details of uncompressed image expansion processing according to the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing details of compressed image processing according to the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of prescan search processing according to the embodiment of this invention.
FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of cut range skip processing according to the embodiment of this invention;
FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of block call order determination processing according to the embodiment of this invention;
FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of block call order determination processing according to the embodiment of this invention;
FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating a processing result example of layout information expansion processing according to the embodiment of this invention;
FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing details of photographic image development processing according to the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing details of photographic image information expansion processing according to the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a specific example of photographic image information expansion processing according to the embodiment of the present invention.
[Explanation of symbols]
11 Template specification part
12 Print execution instruction section
13 Photo image identification part
21 Layout template
22 Template reading part
23 Layout Analysis Department
31 Image / font data storage area
32 Image / Font Management Department
33 Extension
34 Rotating part
35 Cutout
36 Enlarging / reducing part
41 Layout Management Department
51 Display Management Department
52 Display execution unit
61 Print Management Department
62 Print execution unit
110 CPU
120 ROM
130 Key driver
140 RAM
150 External communication driver
160 External media driver
170 Printing unit
170a Printer driver
180 display units
200 External printer

Claims (5)

Reading means for reading out a designated layout template from a recording medium that records a plurality of types of layout templates including a plurality of image pasting areas;
Setting means for setting link information indicating a link relationship between a plurality of image data according to the order when the plurality of image data are sorted ;
Storage means for storing a plurality of image pasting areas and a plurality of image data of the layout template read by the reading means in association with each other according to the link information set by the setting means;
Input means for inputting a switching instruction for switching the layout template;
When a switching instruction is input by the input unit, the correspondence between the plurality of image data stored in the storage unit and the plurality of image pasting areas of the layout template is newly read by the reading unit by the switching instruction. A changing means for changing based on a plurality of image pasting areas of the layout template,
Based on the correspondence changed by the changing means, image developing means for developing an image in which the plurality of image data is arranged in the image pasting area of the layout template;
An image processing apparatus comprising: display control means for displaying the image on a display unit. The input means further inputs an image switching instruction for switching the image data,
The changing means further changes the correspondence based on link information of new image data designated by the image switching instruction when an image switching instruction is inputted by the input means. Item 8. The image processing apparatus according to Item 1. The setting means further sets skip information indicating whether or not the image data is skipped,
The input means further inputs a skip switching instruction for the image data,
2. The image according to claim 1, wherein the changing unit further changes the correspondence based on skip information set in the image data when a skip switching instruction is input by the input unit. 3. Processing equipment. A reading step for reading a designated layout template from a recording medium for recording a plurality of types of layout templates including a plurality of image pasting areas;
A setting step in which setting means sets link information indicating a link relationship between a plurality of image data in accordance with a ranking when the plurality of image data is sorted ;
A storage step of storing a plurality of image pasting areas and a plurality of image data of the layout template read out in the reading step in association with each other in accordance with the link information set in the setting step. When,
An input step for inputting a switching instruction for switching the layout template;
When a switching instruction is input by the input step, the changing unit newly sets the correspondence between the plurality of image data stored in the storage medium and the plurality of image pasting areas of the layout template by the reading step by the switching instruction. A changing step for changing based on a plurality of image pasting areas of the layout template read in
An image development step for developing an image in which the plurality of image data is arranged in the image pasting area of the layout template, based on the correspondence changed by the changing step;
A display control means comprising: a display control step of displaying the image on a display unit. A reading step for reading a designated layout template from a recording medium for recording a plurality of types of layout templates including a plurality of image pasting areas;
A setting step in which setting means sets link information indicating a link relationship between a plurality of image data in accordance with a ranking when the plurality of image data is sorted ;
A storage step of storing a plurality of image pasting areas and a plurality of image data of the layout template read out in the reading step in association with each other in accordance with the link information set in the setting step. When,
An input step for inputting a switching instruction for switching the layout template;
When a switching instruction is input by the input step, the changing unit newly sets the correspondence between the plurality of image data stored in the storage medium and the plurality of image pasting areas of the layout template by the reading step by the switching instruction. A changing step for changing based on a plurality of image pasting areas of the layout template read in
An image development step for developing an image in which the plurality of image data is arranged in the image pasting area of the layout template, based on the correspondence changed by the changing step;
A computer-readable memory storing a computer program, wherein the display control means causes a computer to execute a display control step of displaying the image on a display unit.

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