JP4300504B2 - Communication device and communication system - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a communication device and a communication system, and more particularly to a communication device and a communication system that can automatically recognize a user of the communication device and set a reproduction condition and a photographing condition.
[0002]
[Prior art]
2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a method for obtaining a room permission using a key or an ID card when entering a managed room is known. In addition, an apparatus such as a cash dispenser is known that can be used thereafter by inputting an ID card brought by the user and a personal identification number stored by the user. In addition, there is a known method for identifying a user by transmitting a slave-side account and a unique password to a master-side device when communicating and connecting computers via a network, and permitting or restricting subsequent use. ing. In addition, in the wireless short-range communication technology, a function is provided in which an access key is held in a communication connection device that performs communication connection with each other and communication can be easily performed again.
[0003]
Also, an authentication method for identifying an individual by photographing physical features such as the retina of the eye and a fingerprint is known, and a personal authentication device capable of improving the accuracy of authentication even for a finger image having a low density Is disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 5-342333.
[0004]
Further, in order to prevent an image transmitted from the digital camera from being viewed by an unspecified person on the receiving side, when transmitting the image from the digital camera, a password number or information corresponding thereto is added to the image data to be transmitted. Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 11-313237 discloses a digital camera and an image transmission system provided with authentication information adding means for adding.
[0005]
There is also provided an image processing apparatus capable of easily specifying a user by an authentication medium, increasing the confidentiality of image data depending on whether the user is specified, and restricting functions usable by the user. This is disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 11-313237.
[0006]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, since cameras generally do not have an authentication function for identifying users, when multiple people take pictures using the camera, other people can freely view images taken by specific individuals. It is possible to do. Therefore, there is a risk that an image shot by the user is viewed by other users.
[0007]
The identification method using a key, ID card, personal identification number, and authentication medium for identifying an individual that has been used in the past is applied to the camera because it requires the user to perform some operation or input. Even if it did, the malfunction that the operativity became complicated was produced.
[0008]
In addition, in the method of identifying an individual using physical features, the complexity of operability that it is necessary to present physical features such as fingerprints and retinas to an authentication device remains, and authentication means are provided. Since it was necessary to provide the camera exclusively, the camera portability deteriorated.
[0009]
The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and there is provided a communication device and a communication system that automatically limit functions that can be used by automatically specifying a user who is using a communication device or an electronic camera. It is intended to provide.
[0010]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 1 is based on communication means capable of wirelessly receiving a playback condition for limiting the playback function of an image from another communication device, and the received playback condition. And a reproducing means for reproducing an image.
[0011]
According to the present invention, the communication device allows communication means capable of wirelessly receiving a playback condition that restricts an image playback function from another communication device, and playback that plays back an image based on the received playback condition. Therefore, the functions that can be used can be limited by easily specifying the user who is using the communication device.
[0012]
In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 5 restricts recording means for pre-recording first identification information for identifying the first user of the communication device and a reproduction function relating to image reproduction. Communication means capable of wirelessly receiving, from the other communication device, identification information that is identification information associated with the reproduction condition and that identifies the second user of the communication device; and There is provided a collating unit for collating identification information to be identified with identification information for identifying the second user, and a reproducing unit for reproducing an image based on the result of the collation.
[0013]
According to the present invention, the identification information is associated with a recording unit that preliminarily records first identification information that identifies a first user of a communication device, and a reproduction condition that restricts a reproduction function related to image reproduction. And communication means capable of wirelessly receiving second identification information for specifying a second user of the communication device from another communication device, and first identification information for specifying the first user; Use of a communication device because it includes collation means for collating the second identification information for specifying the second user and reproduction means for reproducing an image based on the result of the collation. It is possible to limit the functions that can be used by easily identifying a person.
[0014]
In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 7 is a recording means for recording an image in association with a first playback condition for limiting the playback function of the image, and limits the playback function of the image. Receiving means for receiving the second reproduction condition from another communication device, collation means for collating the first reproduction condition and the second reproduction condition, and reproducing the image based on the result of the collation And a reproducing means.
[0015]
According to the present invention, the recording means for recording the image in association with the first playback condition for limiting the playback function of the image, and the second playback condition for limiting the playback function of the image from another communication device. A communication device comprising: a receiving means for receiving; a collating means for collating the first reproduction condition with the second reproduction condition; and a reproduction means for reproducing an image based on the result of the collation. It is possible to limit the functions that can be used by easily specifying the user who is using the system.
[0016]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of a communication device and a communication system according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0017]
FIG. 1 shows a communication system including an electronic camera and a communication device according to the present invention.
[0018]
According to the figure, the communication system includes an electronic camera 10 (one form of communication device) provided with an imaging means and a wireless communication means, a mobile phone 40 which is a communication device provided with a wireless communication means and a recording means, The server 90 is a communication device including a recording unit for recording information and a wireless communication unit. The electronic camera 10 can transmit / receive information to / from the mobile phone 40 by short-range wireless communication means. Further, the mobile phone 40 can transmit and receive information to and from the server 90 by communication means such as a public line.
[0019]
For example, the user carries the mobile phone 40 owned by the user himself and takes a picture using the electronic camera 10. At that time, the electronic camera 10 automatically starts communication with the mobile phone 40 to automatically acquire the first identification information unique to the owner of the mobile phone 40 from the mobile phone 40, and the identification information together with the photographed image. Record.
[0020]
Even when an image is reproduced, the electronic camera 10 automatically starts communication with the mobile phone 40, automatically acquires second identification information unique to the owner of the mobile phone 40 from the mobile phone 40, and takes a captured image. A process of collating with the first identification information recorded together is performed. As a result of the collation, for example, it is determined that the first identification information recorded together with the image is the same as the newly received second identification information, and the photographer and the person to be reproduced are the same person For example, a high-resolution image can be reproduced.
[0021]
Further, if the first identification information and the second identification information are not the same as a result of the collation, it is determined that the photographer and the person to be reproduced are different persons, for example, reproduction of the image is prohibited. Or, if necessary, it can be played back only at a low resolution.
[0022]
FIG. 2 shows a block diagram of a signal processing system of the electronic camera.
[0023]
According to the figure, the electronic camera 10 includes an imaging means (including a part of the function of the photographing means) 110 that forms an image of a subject on a light receiving surface and photoelectrically converts the image to output image data, and the electronic camera 10. Performs overall control and controls image data sampling timing control, image data recording control, image data graphic recognition, reading of model information of the electronic camera 10, communication control, display control, identification information verification, and the like. An information processing unit 116 and an input unit 118 provided with a release button, a communication button, a transmission button, a function switch, a cross key, a confirmation switch, a mode switch, and the like are provided.
[0024]
The electronic camera 10 also includes an image processing unit 120 that performs processing such as image size change, sharpness correction, gamma correction, contrast correction, and white balance correction, a frame memory 121 that temporarily stores image data, A model number of the electronic camera 10, a unique number such as a manufacturing number, identification information, an operation program, a PROM storing identification information for identifying the owner of the electronic camera 10, a password, each constant, and the like, and work at the time of program execution A memory 123 composed of a RAM serving as a storage means serving as an area is provided.
[0025]
In addition, the electronic camera 10 can be attached and detached with compression / decompression means 124 that performs processing for controlling compression of information such as image data by a technique represented by JPEG or motion JPEG, and processing for expanding / decompressing compressed data. There is provided a recording medium interface 127 (recording means) for converting data to be recorded on and read from the recording medium 126. The recording medium 126 is a detachable recording medium represented by a semiconductor such as a memory card and MO, magnetic recording, and optical recording.
[0026]
The wireless communication means of the electronic camera 10 used when transmitting / receiving information such as image data to / from other communication devices such as the mobile phone 40 is based on an antenna 128 for transmitting / receiving a carrier wave and data and a command from the information processing means 116. The communication unit 129 transmits or receives image data on a carrier wave.
[0027]
The electronic camera 10 also includes information on communication connection devices, a D / A converter 133 for displaying image data on the display means 132, and identification information instructed by the information processing means 116. A character generator 134 for converting data is provided.
[0028]
A photographing process of the electronic camera 10 configured as described above will be described.
[0029]
When the electronic camera 10 is turned on and set to a shooting mode, first, the information processing unit 116 of the electronic camera 10 sets to an “unauthenticated mode”, which is a shooting mode that restricts the image shooting function. The information processing unit 116 instructs the communication unit 129 to start short-range wireless communication. Then, wireless communication is started to search for a communication device that can provide an “authentication code” corresponding to the photographing condition. If there is a mobile phone 40 or the like owned by the user of the electronic camera 10 that can provide shooting conditions in the vicinity of the electronic camera 10, wireless communication is established based on the response from the mobile phone 40. Then, a pairing process for continuing the subsequent communication with each other is started. Then, identification information such as an ID number, a manufacturing number, and a serial number unique to the electronic camera 10 recorded in the memory 123 or the like (recording unit) which is a recording unit of the electronic camera 10 with respect to the mobile phone 40 (use of the electronic camera 10 (Including identification information for identifying a person) is transmitted to a communication device such as the mobile phone 40 via the communication unit 129 which is a transmission unit.
[0030]
In the next step, the electronic camera 10 may be an “authentication code” for the mobile phone 40 (a form of photographing conditions that restrict the photographing function, and may be identification information that identifies the user or owner, The identification information associated with the photographing condition may be transmitted). The information processing means 116 of the electronic camera 10 (which has a part of the function of the photographing means and also the function of the collation means) is that the “authentication code” received wirelessly from the mobile phone 40 by the communication means 129 is electronic It is verified whether or not the identification information recorded in the memory serving as the recording means of the camera 10 matches. If the “authentication code” matches the identification information as a result of the comparison, the information processing means 116 sets the shooting mode to “authentication mode” that does not restrict the shooting function, and sets each shooting mode. Based on this, the subsequent shooting is performed.
[0031]
On the other hand, an image photographed by the electronic camera 10 is formed on the light receiving surface of the imaging unit 110, and the formed subject image is photoelectrically converted and output to the image processing unit 120. The image data obtained in this way is subjected to amplification and noise reduction processing by the image processing means 120 and is temporarily stored in the frame memory 121. The information processing means 116 sequentially transmits the image data stored in the frame memory 121 to the D / A converter 133 and displays it on the display means 132.
[0032]
When a release button provided on the input unit 118 is pressed, a mode for photographing a subject is entered. Then, the information processing means 116 transfers the image data stored in the frame memory 121 to the compression / decompression means 124 and outputs a command for executing the compression processing of the image data under predetermined photographing conditions. Then, the recording medium interface 127 performs processing for sequentially recording the image data on the recording medium 126. At this time, identification information unique to the electronic camera 10 or identification information of the cellular phone 40 that identifies the photographer (information such as a cellular phone number and a serial key) is recorded in the authentication code storage unit of the image file.
[0033]
The authentication code storage unit for recording the “authentication code” may be a header part of an image file, or may be embedded as a “watermark” pattern in the image itself. Note that the shooting condition in the “unauthenticated mode” may be a condition that enables recording only with a coarse image having a VGA size or less, a condition that prohibits shooting with a predetermined number of pixels, or a predetermined condition. This may be a condition for permitting recording with image data with less image information equal to or higher than the compression ratio. In addition, the photographing condition in the “authentication mode” may be a photographing condition that allows photographing at the maximum resolution, or a condition that permits recording with image data with a large amount of information with a low compression rate. Also good.
[0034]
The shooting conditions in the “unauthenticated mode” include shooting conditions for prohibiting all shooting, conditions for setting a time for limiting shooting, shooting conditions for prohibiting flash emission, and recording devices of specific models (electronic cameras, etc.) ) Shooting conditions for prohibiting shooting, shooting conditions for inserting predetermined information such as “watermark” for declaring copyright on the shot image, conditions regarding resolution of the shot image information, or transmission issued by the recording device after shooting Conditions such as shooting conditions that limit sound may be used.
[0035]
In addition, when transferring a captured image to another communication device, communication with another communication device serving as an image transfer destination is established and a transmission button provided in the input unit 118 is pressed. Then, the information processing unit 116 sequentially reads the designated image data from the recording medium 126 and converts it into a predetermined data format that conforms to a predetermined shooting condition, and then performs other communication via the communication unit 129 and the antenna 128. Execute the process to send to the device.
[0036]
A reproduction process of the electronic camera 10 configured as described above will be described.
[0037]
When the processing mode of the electronic camera 10 is set to the playback mode, first, the information processing unit 116 of the electronic camera 10 sets the “unauthenticated mode” which is a playback mode that restricts the playback function of the image. The information processing unit 116 instructs the communication unit 129 to start short-range wireless communication. Then, wireless communication is started and a communication device capable of providing an “authentication code” corresponding to the reproduction condition is searched. If there is a mobile phone 40 or the like owned by the user of the electronic camera 10 that can provide playback conditions in the vicinity of the electronic camera 10, wireless communication is established based on the response from the mobile phone 40. Then, a pairing process for continuing the subsequent communication with each other is started. Then, identification information such as an ID number, a manufacturing number, and a serial number unique to the electronic camera 10 recorded in the memory 123 of the electronic camera 10 is transmitted to the communication device such as the mobile phone 40.
[0038]
In the next step, the electronic camera 10 uses the “authentication code” (a form of reproduction conditions for restricting the image reproduction function) for the mobile phone 40 and identification information for identifying the user or owner who performs the reproduction. And may be identification information associated with the reproduction condition). The “authentication code” received by the electronic camera 10 from the mobile phone 40 wirelessly is the identification information in the same form as the “authentication code” recorded in the memory 123 of the electronic camera 10 or the image file instructed to be reproduced. Check whether they match. If the verification result shows that the “authentication code” matches the identification information, the information processing means 116 sets the playback mode to “authentication mode” that does not restrict the playback function, and based on each playback mode. The subsequent reproduction process is performed. Also, if the “authentication code” that is the playback condition for limiting the playback function is not recorded in the image file, it is determined that the image data does not need to be played back and set to “authentication mode”. The recorded main image may be reproduced and displayed as it is.
[0039]
In the image playback mode, a list of image files recorded on the recording medium 126 is displayed on the display unit 132 of the electronic camera 10. The list display of the image file may be a list display using characters, or a reduced image (also referred to as a thumbnail image) with a reduced main image size may be displayed to notify the user in an easy-to-understand manner. .
[0040]
The user operates the input unit 118 while referring to the list of image files displayed on the display unit 132 to select an image desired to be reproduced. The file information of the image selected by the user is transmitted to the information processing means 116, and the information processing means 116 performs processing for reading the image file selected by the user from the recording medium 126. The read image data is converted into image data for display by the compression / decompression unit 124 and transmitted to the information processing unit 116. If the “authentication code” is embedded in the image data, the compression / decompression unit 124 reads the “authentication code”.
[0041]
The information processing unit 116 selects the image data depending on whether the current playback mode of the electronic camera 10 is an “unauthenticated mode” that limits image playback or an “authentication mode” that does not limit image playback. The data is converted and stored in the frame memory 121.
[0042]
The image data stored in the frame memory 121 is sequentially transmitted to the D / A converter 133 and displayed on the display means 132.
[0043]
The playback condition in the “unauthenticated mode” may be, for example, a condition that allows playback only with a coarse image having a VGA size or less, a condition that displays only a reduced image, or a state in which authentication is not performed. The condition may be that only the captured image can be reproduced. The playback conditions in the “unauthenticated mode” include playback conditions for prohibiting all playback, playback conditions for prohibiting playback with a predetermined number of pixels or more, and “watermark” for declaring copyright on the image. It may be a reproduction condition for inserting predetermined information, a compression condition for outputting an image, or a condition for resolution of an image to be reproduced.
[0044]
In addition, the playback condition in the “authentication mode” may be a condition for setting a playback time, a playback condition in which playback at the maximum resolution is possible, or playback of an image in which no “authentication code” is recorded. May be a condition for permitting the display, or when the “authentication code” recorded in the image file is different from the “authentication code” received at the time of playback from the mobile phone 40, the condition for permitting the display of only the reduced image is There may be.
[0045]
FIG. 3 shows a block diagram of the signal processing unit of the mobile phone.
[0046]
According to the figure, the information transmission / reception unit of the mobile phone 40 performs public line communication means 141 for wireless communication with the public line, public line transmission / reception means 143, and public line and short distance communication. A transmission / reception buffer 144 that temporarily stores information to be transmitted and received in real time, a communication unit 145 for wireless communication with a communication device existing in the vicinity of the mobile phone 40, an antenna 146, and a transmission / reception unit 147 Has been.
[0047]
Further, the mobile phone 40 has a display means 150 for displaying information such as communication status, radio wave intensity, remaining battery capacity, telephone number, image, etc., and selection of telephone number, image, selection of information to be transmitted or received, etc. Input means 152 is provided for inputting information when performing the operation.
[0048]
Further, an information processing means (CPU) 160 that controls the entire mobile phone 40, a program for operating the information processing means 160, various constants, a telephone number, unique identification information for specifying an owner, a communication destination address, and the like Is stored in the PROM 161, the RAM 162 of the storage means serving as a work area when the information processing means 160 executes processing, and the D / A for converting digital voice data into analog voice data for driving the speaker 166. A converter 167 and an A / D converter 169 that converts audio data input from the microphone 168 into digital data are provided.
[0049]
The peripheral circuit including the information processing means 160 in the cellular phone 40, the transmission / reception means 143, the transmission / reception means 147, the display means 150, the input means 152, the PROM 161, and the RAM 162 is connected by a communication means such as a bus line or I / O. The information processing means 160 can control each peripheral circuit.
[0050]
The communication means 145 for peripheral devices transmits / receives information to / from other communication devices using communication means using radio waves, ultrasonic waves, light such as infrared rays. When using radio waves, it may be based on the communication specification of “Bluetooth” which has been attracting attention in recent years, or based on the IrDA specification when using infrared rays.
[0051]
Hereinafter, a series of processes for transmitting an “authentication code” indicating a shooting condition or a reproduction condition to the electronic camera 10 will be described.
[0052]
When the wireless communication with the electronic camera 10 is established, the short-distance communication unit 145 of the mobile phone 40 notifies that the communication device is capable of transmitting an “authentication code” that is a photographing condition or a reproduction condition. And the pairing process for continuing subsequent communication with each other is started.
[0053]
Next, the communication unit 145 of the mobile phone 40 receives from the electronic camera 10 identification information such as a unique ID that identifies the electronic camera 10, a manufacturing number, and a serial number, or identification information that identifies the owner of the electronic camera 10. . Then, the information processing means 160 of the mobile phone 40 reads out the phone number of the mobile phone 40, unique identification information specifying the owner of the mobile phone 40, etc. from the PROM 161, together with the identification information received from the electronic camera 10. Then, the data is transmitted to a communication device such as a specific server 90 via the communication means 141 for public lines. Further, the server 90 may be requested to issue an “authentication code” as necessary.
[0054]
Note that instead of the mobile phone 40 receiving and acquiring device-specific identification information from the electronic camera 10 as described above, the user previously provides the mobile phone 40 with identification information or an authentication code for the electronic camera 10. It may be inputted and recorded in a recording means such as the PROM 161 of the mobile phone 40. In that case, the information processing means 160 of the mobile phone 40 reads out the identification information unique to the mobile phone 40 and the identification information unique to the electronic camera 10 from the PROM 161, and specifies specific information via the communication means 141 for the public line. The data is transmitted to a communication device such as the server 90.
[0055]
The server 90 issues an “authentication code” that is a photographing condition or a reproduction condition of the electronic camera 10 to the mobile phone 40 based on the identification information between the electronic camera 10 and the mobile phone 40 transmitted by the mobile phone 40. The “authentication code” may be information that associates the playback condition or shooting condition of the electronic camera 10 with the identification information issued by the mobile phone 40 in order to identify the user of the electronic camera 10. Further, the identification information issued by the mobile phone 40 may be the phone number of the mobile phone 40 or the like. The information processing means 160 of the mobile phone 40 that has received the “authentication code” via the communication means 141 records the received “authentication code” in a recording means such as the PROM 161 and also via the short-range communication means 145. It transmits to the electronic camera 10.
[0056]
FIG. 4 shows a block diagram of the signal processing unit of the server.
[0057]
According to the figure, the server 90 includes a display unit 192 that displays information such as the operating status, communication status, and images of the server 90, a display controller 193 that sequentially outputs information to be displayed on the display unit 192, and image selection. An input means 194 is provided for a user to input information when selecting information to be transmitted or received.
[0058]
The information transmission / reception unit of the server 90 includes a communication unit 197 for performing communication with a communication line network 196 such as a public line, an antenna 198 for performing wireless communication with other communication devices, and a communication unit 199 for performing wireless communication. And are provided.
[0059]
Further, the server 90 includes an information processing means (CPU) 200 that controls the entire server 90, a program for operating the information processing means 200, various constants, a telephone number, unique identification information for specifying an owner, communication Temporary storage of an image to be displayed on the display unit 192 and a memory 204 composed of a ROM in which the previous address and the like are written and a storage unit RAM serving as a work area when the information processing unit 200 executes processing. And a recording means 208 for recording the reproduction or recording conditions of each electronic camera, identification information for identifying the user, and the like.
[0060]
Each peripheral circuit including the information processing means 200 in the server 90, the display controller 193, the input means 194, the communication means 197, the communication means 199, the memory 204, and the frame memory 206 is a communication means such as a bus line 210 or I / O. The information processing means 200 can control each peripheral circuit.
[0061]
The recording unit 208 records the playback conditions for limiting the playback functions of the plurality of electronic cameras in association with the identification information for identifying the users of the respective electronic cameras or the identification information for identifying the respective electronic cameras 10, Shooting conditions that limit the shooting functions of a plurality of electronic cameras can be recorded in association with identification information that identifies users of each electronic camera or identification information that identifies each electronic camera.
[0062]
In addition, the communication means 197 or 199 of the server 90 includes unique identification information that identifies each electronic camera, identification information that identifies a user of the electronic camera 10, and the telephone number of the mobile phone 40 or the possession of the mobile phone 40. It is possible to receive unique identification information for identifying a person. In addition, the communication unit 197 or 199 of the server 90 receives the playback condition and the shooting condition of the electronic camera recorded in the recording unit 208 in association with the identification information for identifying the user of each electronic camera or each electronic camera. It is possible to select based on each identification information and transmit it to the mobile phone 40 or the like.
[0063]
FIG. 5 is a chart showing identification information unique to the user of the electronic camera 10 issued by the electronic camera 10 or the mobile phone 40.
[0064]
As shown in the figure, according to the users of the plurality of electronic cameras 10, telephone numbers (indicated as mobile numbers in FIG. 5) of the respective mobile phones are issued.
[0065]
FIG. 6 is a table showing “authentication basic codes” recorded by the recording means 208 of the server 90.
[0066]
As shown in the figure, for example, camera-specific identification information and “authentication basic code” are recorded in association with each of the electronic cameras A to E, respectively.
[0067]
FIG. 7 is a table showing information on the availability of each electronic camera recorded by the recording means of the server 90.
[0068]
As shown in the figure, which user can use which electronic camera is recorded in association with each other. Note that “o” indicates that the electronic camera 10 is set to be usable in the “authentication mode”, and “x” indicates that the electronic camera 10 can be used only in the “unauthenticated mode”.
[0069]
Hereinafter, a case where “user a” performs shooting or image reproduction using “camera A” in a state where the information shown in the charts of FIGS. 5 to 7 is recorded in the server 90 will be described. .
[0070]
First, the mobile phone 40a owned by “user a” acquires the device-specific serial number “12345678” from “camera A”. Note that “camera A” stores identification information “AAAA” unique to the device for authentication in addition to the serial number. Then, the mobile phone 40a transmits the mobile phone number “09011112222”, which is identification information of the mobile phone 40a specifying “user a”, to the server 90 together with the received camera-specific serial number. The server 90 is requested to issue an “authentication code”.
[0071]
The server 90 that has received the mobile number and the serial number unique to the electronic camera 10 should be able to use “camera A” in “authentication mode” by “user a” by referring to the chart shown in FIG. Get information about. The information processing means 200 of the server 90 uses the information “AAAAA09011112222”, which is a combination of the “authentication basic code” recorded in the recording means and the mobile number identifying “user a”, as the “authentication code” as the communication means 197. Alternatively, the data is transmitted to the mobile phone 40a via 199.
[0072]
The mobile phone 40a that has received the “authentication code” via a communication means such as a public line transmits the “authentication code” to “camera A” via a short-range wireless communication means. The “camera A” that has received the “authentication code” is the device-specific identification information recorded in the recording means of the “camera A”, and the device-specific identification information that is included above the received “authentication code”. Match "AAAA". Further, “09011112222” included in the lower part of the “authentication code” may be used for authentication for identifying the user.
[0073]
As a result of the comparison, if it is determined that the identification information recorded by “Camera A” matches the identification information included in the “authentication code” received from the mobile phone 40a, “Camera A” The shooting or playback mode is set to “authentication mode” and the subsequent processing is performed. As a result of the collation, if it is determined that the identification information recorded by “camera A” and the identification information included in the “authentication code” received from the mobile phone 40a do not match, The shooting or playback mode of “A” is set to “unauthenticated mode”, and the subsequent processing is performed.
[0074]
When an image is captured by “Camera A”, the identification information unique to “Camera A” and the identification information for identifying the photographer are recorded together in the authentication code storage unit of the image file. When the image recorded in this way is reproduced, the reproduction mode is set based on the “authentication code” (information on the reproduction condition) recorded in the image file.
[0075]
Hereinafter, a case where “user b” performs shooting or image reproduction using “camera C” in a state where the information shown in the tables of FIGS. 5 to 7 is recorded in the server 90 will be described. .
[0076]
First, the mobile phone 40b owned by “user b” acquires the device-specific serial number “12341234” from “camera C”. “Camera C” also stores identification information “CCCC” unique to the device for authentication in addition to the serial number. Then, the mobile phone 40b transmits the mobile phone number “09011113333”, which is identification information of the mobile phone 40b specifying “user b”, to the server 90 together with the received camera-specific serial number. The server 90 is requested to issue an “authentication code”.
[0077]
The server 90 that has received the mobile number and the serial number unique to the electronic camera 10 cannot use “camera C” in “authentication mode” by “user b” in comparison with the chart shown in FIG. Get that information. The information processing unit 200 of the server 90 transmits useless information of “Camera C” to the mobile phone 40b via the communication unit 197 or 199.
[0078]
The mobile phone 40b that has received the unusable information via communication means such as a public line transmits the unusable information to “camera C” via short-range wireless communication means. The “camera C” that has received the unusable information sets the shooting or playback mode of the “camera C” to the “unauthenticated mode”, and performs subsequent processing.
[0079]
FIG. 8 shows a flowchart of a pairing process in which the electronic camera 10 and the mobile phone 40 specify a communication destination.
[0080]
When the mobile phone 40 is in a communicable state, the processing program executed by the information processing means of each communication device branches to “start” (hereinafter abbreviated as S200) shown in FIG. come. The power of the electronic camera 10 is turned on in S102 “Power on”, and the process proceeds to the next S104 “Pairing selection in setup mode” in order to communicate with other specific communication devices.
[0081]
In the next S106 “input password for electronic camera manager”, for example, a password for identifying the owner of the electronic camera 10 is input by operating the input means 118. In the next determination of S108 “password?”, The information processing means 116 of the electronic camera 10 collates the password entered by the user with the password recorded in the recording means such as the memory 123 in advance. The password for identifying the owner of the electronic camera 10 recorded in the memory 123 or the like is recorded in the nonvolatile memory when the electronic camera 10 is manufactured. Further, this password may be configured such that the owner of the electronic camera 10 can change it as appropriate.
[0082]
If the two passwords do not match as a result of the collation in S108, the processing of the information processing means 116 proceeds to S110 “authentication processing failure”, and the subsequent shooting or reproduction processing is set to be restricted. Then, the process proceeds to “End” in S120, and the password verification process ends.
[0083]
If it is determined as a result of the collation in S108 that both passwords match, the processing of the information processing means 116 proceeds to S112 "Search for mobile phone". In S112, the wireless communication is started, and it is searched whether or not a communication device (such as the mobile phone 40) that can provide the photographing condition or the playback condition of the electronic camera 10 such as the mobile phone 40 exists within the wireless communication area. Process.
[0084]
On the other hand, the mobile phone 40 is also set in the setup mode and proceeds to S202 “Pairing selection in the setup mode”, and is set in a state where communication with another specific communication device (corresponding to the electronic camera 10) can be performed. Start searching for a communication partner. When the wireless communication between the communication devices of the mobile phone 40 and the electronic camera 10 is synchronized, the communication connection process is completed. At this time, the display means 132 of the electronic camera 10 displays a list of names of one or more communication devices for which communication connection processing has been completed, and the user may select a communication device that will perform communication thereafter. Good.
[0085]
In the next S114 “select mobile phone”, for example, the mobile phone 40 is selected as a communication target. When the communication connection destination is determined, the process proceeds to the next S116 “Generate Pin Code and Send to Mobile Phone”, and the information processing means 116 of the electronic camera 10 issues and displays the “Pin” code (Personal Identification Number). The user reads this Pin code, and the user inputs the Pin code via the input means 152 of the mobile phone 40 in S204 “User inputs the received Pin code”.
[0086]
The cellular phone 40 compares the input Pin code with the Pin code received from the electronic camera 10, and if they match, the process proceeds to S206 "Communicating with the electronic camera and generating and storing a Link Key" to authenticate each other. Link key is generated and recorded in recording means such as PROM 161. Then, the process proceeds to the next S120, and the authentication process is terminated.
[0087]
Further, the processing program of the electronic camera 10 proceeds to S118 “Communication with mobile phone to generate and save Link Key”, generates a Link Key for authenticating each other, and records it in a recording means such as the memory 123. Then, the process proceeds to the next S120, and the authentication process is terminated.
[0088]
In general, wireless communication may be able to communicate with multiple communication devices, so pairing is performed between each other's communication devices so that communication connection can be established by automatic authentication from the next communication. . Store “Link Key”, which is a key required for each communication device when pairing, and identification information such as ID unique to the other communication device, and read and use these identification information from the next connection. Thus, the authentication process is automatically realized.
[0089]
In addition, a pairing operation is performed between the electronic camera 10 and the mobile phone 40 in advance, and functions when the electronic camera 10 is used based on whether or not communication is possible by automatic authentication between the electronic camera 10 and the mobile phone 40. The “Link Key” used at the time of connection may be used as the authentication code.
[0090]
When the mobile phone 40 paired with the electronic camera 10 is not in the hands of the photographer, communication by automatic authentication is not realized, so that the mobile phone 40 is used in the “unauthenticated mode”.
[0091]
FIG. 9 shows a flowchart when the electronic camera 10 and the mobile phone 40 start communication and perform user authentication processing.
[0092]
When the mobile phone 40 is in a communicable state, the processing program executed by the information processing means of each communication device branches to step S140 “Start” shown in FIG. When the power of the electronic camera 10 is turned on, the processing program of the electronic camera 10 proceeds to S142 “Start-up in power-on unauthenticated mode”, and the next S144 “Peripheral device search” to perform communication with another specific communication device. Proceed to
[0093]
In S144, wireless communication is started, and processing for searching whether or not a communication device such as the mobile phone 40 exists in the wireless communication area is performed. The mobile phone 40 that has received the search signal issued by the electronic camera 10 performs a process of synchronizing wireless communication between the communication devices in S242 “Respond to electronic camera” and transmits a response to the electronic camera 10. To do.
[0094]
The processing program of the electronic camera 10 that has received the response proceeds to S146 “transmission path establishment”, recognizes the mobile phone 40, and continues the subsequent communication. On the other hand, the processing program of the mobile phone 40 also proceeds to S244 “Transmission path establishment” and recognizes the electronic camera 10. Then, in the next S246 “authentication code transmission”, the “authentication code” is transmitted to the electronic camera 10.
[0095]
The electronic camera 10 that has received the “authentication code” proceeds to S148 “authentication processing”, and is recorded in the identification information unique to the electronic camera 10 included in the received “authentication code” and the recording means of the electronic camera 10. Check with the identification information. As a result of the collation, if both pieces of information match, the playback or shooting mode of the electronic camera 10 is set to “authentication mode” in the next S150 “switch to authentication mode”. Further, if the information does not match as a result of the collation, the playback or shooting mode of the electronic camera 10 is set to “unauthenticated mode”, and the subsequent processing is performed. Then, the process proceeds to the next S152 “End” to end the authentication processing routine.
[0096]
FIG. 10 shows a flowchart of a photographing process performed by the electronic camera 10.
[0097]
According to the figure, when the user operates a release button provided on the input means 118 of the electronic camera 10, the processing program executed by the information processing means 116 of the electronic camera 10 branches to S160 “Start”. Then, the process proceeds to the next S162 “input image from imaging means”.
[0098]
In S162, the imaging unit 110 acquires an image at a predetermined timing. In the next S164 “color and pixel conversion processing of signals from the image pickup means”, the image signal output from the image pickup means 110 is transmitted to the image processing means 120 to amplify the signal, reduce noise, and convert the number of pixels. Etc. are performed.
[0099]
In the next S166 “Store the processed image data in the frame memory”, the image data obtained from the image processing means 120 is temporarily recorded in the frame memory 121. Next, in S168 “compress image data”, the information processing means 160 reads out the image data recorded in the previous frame memory 121 and transmits it to the compression / decompression means 124 to compress the compression method and the compression rate according to the shooting conditions. To compress the image.
[0100]
In the next S170 “add authentication code to image data”, information indicating the reproduction condition such as “authentication code” is added to the authentication code storage unit of the image file to be recorded, and next S172 “image data is stored in the recording medium”. In “Record”, the image file is recorded on the recording medium 126. When the recording of the image file ends, the processing program of the electronic camera 10 proceeds to “End” in S174, ends the shooting processing routine, and returns to the original processing routine.
[0101]
FIG. 11 shows a flowchart of the reproduction process performed by the electronic camera 10.
[0102]
According to the figure, when the processing mode of the electronic camera 10 is set to the playback mode, the processing program of the information processing means 116 of the electronic camera 10 branches to S180 “Start”. Then, the process proceeds to the next S182 “input image from recording medium”, and reading processing of the image file recorded on the recording medium 126 desired by the user is performed.
[0103]
The information processing unit 116 determines whether or not an “authentication code” indicating a reproduction condition is given to the authentication code recording unit of the read image file. If the “authentication code” is not assigned, it is determined that the file is an image file for which no restriction on reproduction has been added, and the processing program branches to S186 “decompress main image” to create an image file. The recorded main image is decompressed and expanded as it is into image data for display, and is displayed on the display means 132 or the like in the next S194 “display image on display means”.
[0104]
If the “authentication code” is recorded in the image file, the process proceeds to the next step S188 “reading and confirming the authentication code”, the “authentication code” is read from the image file, and the next S190 “ The process of collating with the “authentication code” received from another communication device such as the mobile phone 40 by the determination of “authentication code match?”. As a result of the collation, if it is determined that both “authentication codes” match, the processing program branches to S186, and the main image is displayed as in the case where the previous “authentication code” is not recorded. A process of decompressing and displaying as it is on the display means 132 or the like is performed in the next S194.
[0105]
If the two “authentication codes” do not match in S190, the information processing unit 116 determines that the image file is a file that is restricted from free playback, and the information processing unit 116 performs the next S192 “decompress thumbnail image”. In step S194, the reduced image (thumbnail image) recorded in the image file is read out and expanded into display image data, and displayed on the display unit 132 in the next S194. Also, the resolution of the image to be displayed may be reduced and displayed on the display means 132 by performing processing such as reading out the image data of the main image and thinning out pixels.
[0106]
When the image display processing is completed in S194, the processing program of the information processing means proceeds to S196 “End” and returns to the original processing routine.
[0107]
In the above embodiment, the mobile phone 40 is used as an authentication device for identifying a user when using the electronic camera 10. However, the present invention is not limited to the mobile phone 40, and communication is possible. If it is a communication apparatus provided with a means, even if it is PDA, a portable personal computer etc., the objective of this invention can be achieved.
[0108]
In the above embodiment, an example in which one mobile phone 40 is used for one electronic camera 10 has been described. However, communication devices or antennas that replace the mobile phone 40 are installed at certain intervals in a certain area. Thus, the electronic camera 10 may be used only in a specific area such as an amusement park or a theme park. Further, the communication device and the antenna may be installed in an art museum or a museum, and a shooting condition for limiting the shooting may be set in a place where shooting is restricted.
[0109]
In the above embodiment, the embodiment has been described in which the electronic camera 10 obtains an “authentication code” when establishing wireless communication. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and “authentication” is periodically performed. The code ”may be received and the authentication process may be performed.
[0110]
In the above embodiment, the server 90 records the information shown in FIGS. 5 to 7 in advance, and outputs an “authentication code” that specifies the shooting or playback conditions of the electronic camera 10 to the electronic camera 10. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the mobile phone 40 prerecords the information shown in FIGS. 6 to 7 and specifies the shooting or playback conditions of the electronic camera 10. The “authentication code” may be output to the electronic camera 10, or information shown in FIGS. 5 to 7 is recorded in the electronic camera 10 in advance, and identification information for identifying the user is stored in each mobile phone. It is possible to achieve the object of the present invention even if the shooting or playback conditions are set by acquiring from the telephone.
[0111]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the communication device according to the present invention, based on the communication means capable of wirelessly receiving the reproduction condition for limiting the image reproduction function from another communication device, and the received reproduction condition. Since the reproduction means for reproducing the image is provided, it is possible to restrict the functions that can be used by easily specifying the user who is using the communication device.
[0112]
According to another aspect of the invention, the recording means for recording first identification information for specifying the first user of the communication device in advance and the reproduction condition for restricting the reproduction function relating to image reproduction are associated with each other. Communication means capable of wirelessly receiving second identification information for identifying the second user of the communication device and the second identification information for identifying the second user of the communication device, and a first for identifying the first user 1 is provided with collation means for collating the identification information with the second identification information for specifying the second user, and reproduction means for reproducing an image based on the result of the collation. It is possible to limit the functions that can be used by easily specifying the user who is using the system.
[0113]
According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided recording means for recording an image in association with a first reproduction condition for restricting the reproduction function of the image, and a second reproduction condition for restricting the image reproduction function. Receiving means for receiving from another communication device, collating means for collating the first reproduction condition and the second reproduction condition, and reproducing means for reproducing an image based on the result of the collation Therefore, it is possible to limit the functions that can be used by easily identifying the user who is using the communication device.
[0114]
In addition, since the electronic camera has a function to automatically recognize the user, the user authentication load is reduced without forcing the user to perform special authentication work, and the user of the electronic camera is identified. And shooting and playback can be restricted. Further, by recording authentication data in association with an image or embedding authentication data in the image, it is possible to limit the target users who can view the image data.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a communication system including an electronic camera and a communication device according to the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a signal processing system of an electronic camera.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a signal processing unit of a mobile phone
FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a signal processing unit of the server.
FIG. 5 is a chart showing identification information unique to a user of an electronic camera or an electronic camera issued by a mobile phone.
FIG. 6 is a table showing “authentication basic codes” recorded by the recording means of the server.
FIG. 7 is a table showing information on availability of each electronic camera recorded by the recording means of the server.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart of pairing processing performed by the electronic camera and the mobile phone.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart when the electronic camera and the mobile phone start communication and perform user authentication processing;
FIG. 10 is a flowchart of imaging processing performed by the electronic camera.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart of playback processing performed by the electronic camera.
[Explanation of symbols]
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Electronic camera, 40 ... Mobile phone, 90 ... Server, 110 ... Imaging means, 116 ... Information processing means, 118 ... Input means, 120 ... Image processing means, 121 ... Frame memory, 123 ... Memory, 124 ... Compression / decompression means , 126 ... recording medium, 127 ... recording medium interface, 128 ... antenna, 129 ... communication means, 132 ... display means, 133 ... D / A converter, 134 ... character generator, 141 ... communication means, 142 ... antenna, 143 ... Transmission / reception means, 144 ... transmission / reception buffer, 145 ... communication means, 146 ... antenna, 147 ... transmission / reception means, 150 ... display means, 160 ... input means, 161 ... information processing means, 161 ... PROM, 162 ... RAM, 166 ... speaker, 167 ... D / A converter, 168 ... Microphone, 169 ... A / D converter, 192 ... Table Means, 193 ... display controller, 194 ... input means, 196 ... communication line network, 197 ... communication means, 198 ... antenna, 199 ... communication means, 200 ... information processing means, 204 ... memory, 206 ... frame memory, 208 ... recording Means 210 ... Bus line

Claims (8)

A first communication means capable of wirelessly receiving a playback condition for restricting an image playback function from another communication device, and a playback means for playing back an image based on the received playback condition. A playback condition recording means for recording a playback condition for restricting an image playback function of the first communication device in association with identification information for identifying a user of the first communication device; and a user of the first communication device. from a second communication device and a second communication means for transmitting the identification information recorded on the identification information recording means and identification information recording means for recording identification information for identifying the another communication device, the first A receiving unit that receives identification information for identifying a user of one communication device; and the first communication device that is recorded in the reproduction condition recording unit in association with the identification information based on the received identification information. Image playback conditions Communication device and a transmitting means for transmitting read. The reproduction condition recording means records a photographing condition for limiting a photographing function of the electronic camera in association with the identification information, and the transmission means records the identification information and the reproduction condition recording means on the basis of the received identification information. 2. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein the photographing condition of the electronic camera recorded in association is transmitted.   The communication device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the identification information is a telephone number of a mobile phone. First communication means capable of wirelessly receiving a reproduction condition for restricting an image reproduction function from another communication device, and reproduction means for reproducing an image based on the received reproduction condition. the transmitting first communication equipment, and identification information recording means for recording the first identification information for identifying the user of the communication device, the identification information recorded on the identification information recording means to other communication devices A second communication device including two communication means, and a reproduction condition that restricts an image reproduction function of the first communication device in association with identification information that identifies a user of the first communication device. Reproduction condition recording means for recording, reception means for receiving identification information for identifying a user of the first communication device, and recording in association with the identification information in the reproduction condition recording means based on the received identification information The first being Communication system, wherein the third communication device having a transmission means for transmitting reads the reproduction condition of telecommunications equipment of the image, in that it consists of. The first communication unit of the first communication device receives shooting conditions that restrict the shooting function wirelessly from another communication device, and the first communication device performs shooting based on the received shooting conditions. And a reproduction condition recording unit of the third communication device associates an imaging condition for limiting a shooting function of the first communication device with identification information for identifying a user of the first communication device. And the transmission means of the third communication device records the image capturing conditions of the first communication device recorded in association with the identification information in the reproduction condition recording means based on the received identification information. The communication system according to claim 4, wherein the information is read and transmitted. An image recording means for recording an image in association with a playback condition for limiting the playback function of the image, a first communication means for receiving a playback condition for limiting the playback function of the image from another communication device, and the image A first communication device comprising: a collating unit that collates the reproduction condition recorded by the recording unit with the received reproduction condition; and a reproduction unit that reproduces an image based on the result of the collation; A second information means comprising: identification information recording means for recording identification information for identifying a user of the communication device; and second communication means for transmitting the identification information recorded in the identification information recording means to another communication device. A communication condition recording unit for recording the image reproduction condition of the first communication device in association with identification information for identifying a user of the first communication device, and the first communication device. Identification information that identifies users Receiving means for signal to a third communication device that includes a transmitting means for transmitting reading the reproduction condition recorded in association with the identification information to the reproducing condition recording unit based on the received identification information A communication system comprising: The first communication device includes an imaging unit that captures a subject image to obtain an image, and the image recording unit of the first communication device includes the image obtained by the photographing and the reproduction condition obtained by the reception. 7. The communication system according to claim 6, wherein the reproduction means of the first communication device reproduces an image based on the result of the collation. An image recording means for recording an image in association with a playback condition for limiting the playback function of the image, a first communication means for receiving a playback condition for limiting the playback function of the image from another communication device, and the image The reproduction condition of the image of the first communication device, comprising: a collating unit that collates the reproduction condition recorded by the recording unit with the received reproduction condition; and a reproduction unit that reproduces an image based on the result of the collation. Reproduction condition recording means for recording in association with identification information for identifying a user of the first communication device, identification information recording means for recording identification information for identifying a user of the first communication device, Identification information for identifying a user of the first communication device from a second communication device comprising second communication means for transmitting the identification information recorded in the identification information recording means to another communication device. Receiving means for receiving; Transmission means for transmitting reading the reproduction condition based on the serial received identification information is recorded in association with the identification information to the reproducing condition recording unit, a communication apparatus characterized by comprising.

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