JP4484609B2 - Automatic photo creation device and automatic photo creation method - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an automatic photo creation apparatus, an automatic photo creation method, and a print medium for photographing a subject including a user with a camera and outputting the photographed image as a printed photo.

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, an automatic photo creation device for a game in which a subject including a user is photographed with a camera and the photographed image is output as a printed photograph has been installed in a game center or other amusement facilities.
In such an automatic photo creation device, usually, according to the user's preference, shooting conditions such as zoom selection of the camera and image selection of the user background, image selection such as a stamp image to be combined with the shot image, An editing condition such as designation of a composite part in the photographed image of the image and a printing condition such as allocation of the photographed image after the editing work to a printing mount can be selected. Further, as described in Patent Document 1 below, for example, the conventional apparatus is provided with an endless belt-like screen on which a plurality of backgrounds are drawn on the back side of the user in the imaging space of the camera. In some cases, the shooting conditions are changed so that the background is preferred by the user.

JP 2000-267162 A (pages 3 to 5, FIG. 1)

By the way, in the conventional automatic photo creation apparatus as described above, in the shooting operation, editing operation, and printing operation of the apparatus, the image data such as the stamp image that can be selected by the user, and the shooting, editing, and printing conditions Were previously stored in the memory of the apparatus. In addition, as in the above-described known invention, an attempt has been made to increase a user's selection by providing a mechanical option mechanism.
However, the user's preferences are various, and it is assumed that there is a choice that can satisfy all users, so that it can be selected in each of the shooting, editing, and printing operations in the automatic photo creation device in advance. It was practically impossible to set. For this reason, it is difficult for conventional devices as described above to deal with a wide variety of user preferences, and therefore, sufficient satisfaction cannot be given to the user and playability and entertainment are poor. Sometimes considered a device.

  In view of the conventional problems as described above, the present invention can easily cope with a wide variety of user preferences, and thus can provide sufficient playability and entertainment that can give the user sufficient satisfaction. An object is to provide an excellent automatic photo creation device, an automatic photo creation method, and a print medium thereof.

The automatic photo creation apparatus according to the present invention includes a photographing unit for photographing a subject including a user to obtain a photographed image, and an editing for performing a predetermined editing process including a composition process of another image with respect to the photographed image. Substitute function for printing means for printing the photographed image or the photographed image after the editing process on a print medium, and a storage medium carried by the user that does not store the print output count and print consideration And a predetermined use related to the user including at least one data of an image, a character, a shooting condition, an editing condition, and a printing condition stored in the storage medium. past indicia to person and reading means for reading the data, the storage medium is confirmed whether or not it is connected after confirmation of the consideration payment, it does not require additional consideration after the connection confirmation Without checking the number of output times, the user data stored in the storage medium to read to the reading means, the user data read so as to be preferentially selected as the preference data of the user Control means for presenting to the user and controlling at least one of the photographing means, the editing means, and the printing means is provided.

In the automatic photo creation apparatus configured as described above, a storage medium that is carried by a user and that does not store the number of print outputs and that does not have a function to replace printing consideration is connected to the storage medium. Reading means for reading the stored user data is provided.
Further, the control means confirms whether or not the storage medium is connected after confirming the payment for payment, and does not request additional compensation after confirming the connection. The stored user data is read by the reading means, and the read user data is presented to the user so that the user data can be preferentially selected as user preference data , and the photographing means, editing means, and printing since control at least one means of means, the control means, imaging means with priority user preferences, editing means, and printing means can be an operation, easy to user's preference diverse variety Can deal with.

In the automatic photo creating apparatus, it is preferable that the reading unit has a writing function for writing data to the storage medium.
In this case, since the user data of the storage medium can be updated, it is possible to easily reflect an image such as a previously captured image and each condition at the next play, and the user can print a desired image. It is possible to easily create printed photographs and the like.

In the automatic photo creation device, the storage medium stores personal information data of the user included in the user data,
The control means may have a function of WEB registration of personal information data read by the reading means via the Internet.
In this case, since the personal information data of the storage medium is WEB-registered, it is possible to easily manage customers (users) of the automatic photo creation apparatus and to provide various services to registered users.

Further, in the automatic photo creation device, when the reading unit reads the number of points stored in the storage medium, the control unit determines whether the photographing unit, the editing unit, And at least one of the printing means may be controlled.
In this case, the control unit can change the number of operations and the operation contents of the photographing unit, the editing unit, and the printing unit according to the number of points of the storage medium, and the user can enjoy a service according to the number of points. Then you can play the automatic photo creation device.

In the automatic photo creating apparatus, the reading unit is preferably configured to be connectable to a plurality of the storage media and has a writing function for writing data to each of the plurality of storage media.
In this case, the data stored in each storage medium can be exchanged, and a plurality of users can hold the same image data in the storage medium. In addition, the playability and amusement of the automatic photo creation device can be easily enhanced.

In the automatic photo creation apparatus, the reading unit is configured to be connectable to the plurality of storage media, and the control unit uses user data stored in the plurality of storage media. , At least one of the photographing unit, the editing unit, and the printing unit may be controlled.
In this case, the user photographed appropriately combined data of the plurality of storage media, editing, since it is possible to perform each operation of the printing, even if the user is a plurality, a sufficient satisfaction to each user It is possible to further enhance the playability and amusement of the automatic photo creation device while giving it reliably.

Further, the automatic photo creation method of the present invention is a storage medium that is carried by a user and does not store the number of times of print output and does not have an alternative function to the printing consideration. A reading step of reading predetermined user data relating to the user including at least one data of a condition, an editing condition, and a printing condition; a photographing step of photographing a subject including the user to obtain a photographed image; and the photographing An editing step for performing a predetermined editing process including a composition process of another image with respect to the image, and a printing step for printing the photographed image or the photographed image after the editing process on a print medium, after confirming the payment for consideration the storage medium is confirmed whether or not it is connected, without checking past print output times in order not to require additional consideration after the connection confirmation, the reading stearate Running up, the imaging step, the editing step, and at least in one step, preferentially the use so as to select the user data read by the reading step as the preference data of the user of the printing step It is characterized by being presented to a person .

In the automatic photo creation method configured as described above, it is confirmed whether or not the storage medium is connected after confirming the payment of the price, and after confirming the connection, the number of past print outputs is confirmed in order not to request additional compensation. The reading step is executed without doing so.
The user data read from the storage medium in the reading step is used as user preference data in at least one of a photographing step for obtaining a photographed image, an editing step for performing an editing process, and a printing step for printing on a printing medium. as from being presented to the user so as to select preferentially, it is possible to perform the at least one step in favor of preferences of the user. As a result, it is possible to create a print medium desired by the user by easily creating a photo while easily dealing with a wide variety of user preferences.

  According to the present invention, since it is possible to easily cope with a wide variety of user preferences, an automatic photo creation device and an automatic photo creation excellent in playability and entertainment while giving sufficient satisfaction to the user A method and its print medium can be provided.

  A preferred embodiment showing an automatic photo creating apparatus and an automatic photo creating method of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[Device configuration]
FIG. 1 is a side view of an automatic photo creating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a front view showing a main part of the automatic photo creating apparatus as viewed from a user. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a system main part of the automatic photo creating apparatus.
As shown in FIG. 1, the automatic photo creation apparatus 1 of the present embodiment includes a housing 3 installed on the left side of the figure and provided with various devices on the inside and on the front surface facing the user U, and a plurality of devices. A shooting game booth 2 having a box-shaped shooting room 4 configured to allow the user U to enter the room at the same time is provided. Moreover, in this photography room 4, the both sides | surfaces side (direction perpendicular | vertical to the paper surface of a figure) are open | released, and the entrance / exit for the user U to enter / exit in the booth 2 is formed. However, the entrance / exit is provided with a curtain (not shown) so that the photographing room 4 is partitioned from the outside when the apparatus 1 is played.

A computer device 5 that constitutes a control means of the automatic photo creation device 1 is stored inside the housing 3 so as to drive and control each part of the device 1 in accordance with an input instruction from the user U. It has become. That is, the computer device 5 drives the corresponding units according to the selection operation by the user U in each of the photographing operation, the editing operation, and the printing operation that are continuously performed in the automatic photo creation device 1. The apparatus 1 is adapted to create a printed photograph that the user U likes. The computer device 5 is provided with an editing function for editing an image. The device 5 includes an operation screen and a touch pen, which will be described later, and a process for combining another image with the photographed image in accordance with an input instruction from the user U. The editing means for performing a predetermined editing process is configured.
Further, inside the housing 3, a printer 6 and a reader / writer device 7 as reading means are accommodated. Then, as will be described in detail later, in the automatic photo creation device 1, not only data such as image data stored in advance in the device 1, but also predetermined user data prepared by the user U is stored in the device 1. It is configured to be reflected in each operation.

  A camera 8 for photographing a subject including the user U is provided at a substantially central portion of the front surface of the casing 3 with reference to FIG. A light (not shown) for illumination is provided. A monitor 9 is provided on the front surface of the housing 3 to display a subject including the user U displayed on the camera 8 in real time. The monitor 9 is composed of a CRT device, a liquid crystal display device, and the like, and is arranged adjacent to the camera 8 so as to make it easy to see the current state of the user U who is shooting and to easily check the preview. Yes.

  In addition, an upper inclined surface that is inclined to the right side in FIG. An upper flash 10 that irradiates the user U from above simultaneously with the photographing operation of the camera 8 is provided on the upper inclined surface. Further, a lower inclined surface that is inclined to the right side in FIG. The lower inclined surface is provided with an intermediate flash 11 that irradiates the central portion of the user U simultaneously with the photographing operation, and the lower vertical surface below the lower portion that irradiates the feet of the user U simultaneously with the photographing operation. A flash 12 is provided. These flashes 10 to 12 constitute photographing means for photographing a subject including the user U together with the camera 8 to obtain a photographed image, and the photographing conditions can be appropriately changed according to the preference of the user U. (Details will be described later).

The camera 8 performs the photographing operation when the user U performs an input operation on the operation screen, and performs the photographing operation a predetermined number of times. A plurality of photographed images captured by the camera 8 are displayed in a list on the operation screen, and the user U selects a photographed image desired to be edited, whereby the editing process is performed on the photographed image selected. It is configured to be performed.
Further, a coin insertion part 15 is provided at the lower right part of the front surface of the housing 3 so that coins as a game consideration can be inserted.

An operation screen 16 operated by the user U is provided near the center of the intermediate flash 11 on the front side of the housing 3. This operation screen 16 is configured by a touch panel display such as a liquid crystal tablet, and has a function of selecting and instructing the user U to the computer device 5 as a main control unit. That is, in the automatic photo creation apparatus 1, the user U is selected and instructed via the operation screen 16 in each of the above-described shooting operation, editing operation, and printing operation.
A touch pen 17 for performing an input operation on the operation screen 16 is attached in the vicinity of the operation screen 16, and the user U touches the surface of the touch pen 17 according to an operation instruction displayed on the operation screen 16. By touching lightly with the pen tip of the user or the fingertip of the user U, various operation signals are sent to the computer device 5 and operations corresponding to the signals are performed.

Further, the touch pen 17 can input a drawing such as a character or a figure by bringing the tip of the touch pen 17 into contact with the surface of the operation screen 16. A stamp image stored in advance in the computer device 5 is combined with a captured image of the user U captured and fixed by the camera 8 and displayed on the operation screen 16.
Note that a speaker (not shown) is installed at an appropriate position on the front surface of the housing 3, and an input procedure to the operation screen 16 is guided by voice or music is played, so that the user U However, the automatic photo creation apparatus 1 can be operated smoothly and can be enjoyed and played.

  The printer 6 constitutes a printing unit that prints a photographed image or a photographed image after editing processing on a print medium, and performs a printing operation based on an instruction signal from the computer device 5. Further, in this printer 6, printing conditions such as frame allocation of photographed images and the like are changed in accordance with the input instruction of the user U notified by the instruction signal, which matches the preference of the user U. Printed photos and the like are printed. Then, this printed photograph or the like is sent from the printer 6 to an outlet (not shown) provided on the front surface of the housing 3 and provided to the user U.

  The reader / writer device 7 can be directly connected to a card medium such as a flash memory as a storage medium carried by the user U, and can input / output data to / from the computer device 5. It is configured. Specifically, the reader / writer device 7 has two card insertion slots (card slots) 7a and 7b installed on the left side of the operation screen 16, as illustrated in FIG. The reader / writer device 7 reads the user data including the preference data preferred by the user U from the card media inserted into the insertion ports 7 a and 7 b and outputs the user data to the computer device 5. Data is written to each media.

The user data read from the card medium by the reader / writer device 7 includes at least one of image data of various images, characters, photographing conditions, editing conditions, and printing conditions. 5 controls each part of the apparatus 1 using these user data. Thus, the user U's preference is reflected in each of the photographing operation, the editing operation, and the printing operation in the automatic photo creation apparatus 1, and a print photo or the like desired by the user U is created. ing.
More specifically, the user data includes a shooting mode such as zoom selection of the camera 8 such as full body, half-body or face-up shooting selected by the user U, and camera angle designation before the shooting operation is performed. Data of shooting conditions for setting the preference of the shot such as the intensity of lighting for the user U at the time of shooting with each flash 10 to 12 and the degree of blur of the shot image is included. In addition, the user data image data used in the shooting operation includes background image data and foreground image data that are captured as captured images with the user U behind and in front of the user U, respectively.

The user data relates to editing conditions such as setting other image data to be combined with a captured image such as a stamp image used in an editing operation and a composite position of the image data in the captured image. Contains data. Also included is data used by the user U in editing operations such as a previously created photographed image or stamp image.
The user data includes data relating to printing conditions such as frame allocation used in the printing operation. In other words, the printer 6 sets the sheet layout such as the number and size of photographed images to be printed on a print sheet (print medium) or the arrangement of a plurality of photographed images (including images after editing processing). Is included as print condition data.
Furthermore, the user data includes personal personal information data related to the user U such as the name, date of birth, and address of the user U, and data on the number of points and credits that can be used in the automatic photo creation device 1. It is included. In the automatic photo creation device 1, the personal information data is combined (added) to the photographed image, the service corresponding to the number of points is enjoyed by the user U, or the device 1 is played according to the number of credits. It is configured to be able to.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 3, the computer device 5 includes a CPU 5a, a memory (RAM and ROM) 5b, and a frame buffer 5c that temporarily holds image data such as a photographed image. The computer device 5 also includes an auxiliary storage device 5d composed of a hard disk or the like in which a program for controlling each part of the automatic photo creation apparatus 1 and predetermined image data such as a stamp image is stored, and data of each part of the device. An I / O control unit 5e that performs input / output control is provided. A data line 18 such as a telephone line is connected to the I / O control unit 5e, and the automatic photo creation apparatus 1 can perform bidirectional data communication (including a mail transmission / reception function) with a network such as the Internet. It is configured as follows.

  The CPU 5a starts photographing and other control by receiving a coin detection signal from the coin insertion unit 15, and when a handwritten image or an operation signal is input with the touch pen 17, the data is stored in the frame buffer 5c. To do. Further, the CPU 5a has a timer function for measuring the time that can be input by the touch pen 17. This time measurement is started almost at the same time that an instruction message for starting various operations such as setting of shooting conditions and image input is displayed on the operation screen 16, and this measurement time is the above shooting operation, editing operation, and printing operation. When a predetermined input available time allocated in advance for each of the operations is reached, the input acceptance is stopped and the next operation is started.

  Further, the CPU 5a irradiates the flashes 10 to 12 at a predetermined shutter timing by an input operation on the operation screen 16 by the user U, stores the video in the frame buffer 5c as a still image, and the fixed photographed image. (Still image) is displayed on the operation screen 16. Further, the CPU 5a has a counter function for counting the number of times of photographing by the shutter operation of the camera 8, and is reset by the first coin detection by the coin insertion unit 15 and starts counting. This count is repeated at regular time intervals until a predetermined number of times that can be photographed is reached, so that a plurality of photographed images are obtained.

Further, the CPU 5a displays the plurality of photographed images (still images) on the operation screen 16, and among these photographed images, the photographed image that the user U wants to perform an editing process including a composite process such as a stamp image. A selection screen for selecting is displayed in the operation screen 16.
Further, when there is a handwritten image input to the operation screen 16 by the touch pen 17, the CPU 5 a synthesizes it with the fixed still image stored in the frame buffer 5 c, and this synthesized image is displayed on the operation screen 16. Display.

  Next, the operation of the automatic photo creation apparatus 1 of the present embodiment will be specifically described with reference to FIGS.

[Use of card media preference data]
As shown in step S1 of FIG. 4, in the automatic photo creation device 1, when the CPU 5a detects that a coin for a specified price has been inserted into the coin insertion unit 15 by the user U, the CPU 5a detects the auxiliary storage device 5d. A predetermined initial screen stored in is displayed on the operation screen 16 and an initial operation is performed to inform the user U that the device 1 is ready to play. In addition, the initial screen includes a selection screen for the shooting operation formed using selection setting data for the shooting operation held in advance in the auxiliary storage device 5d.
Subsequently, the CPU 5a determines whether or not a card medium is set in any of the card insertion openings 7a and 7b of the reader / writer device 7 (step S2). If not, the CPU 5a proceeds to the next step S4. Jump.

  On the other hand, when the CPU 5a detects that a card medium is set in one of the card insertion slots 7a and 7b in the above step S2, the CPU 5a takes a picture from the set card medium by the reader / writer device 7. Image data, character data, and shooting condition preference data used in the operation are loaded and temporarily stored (data copied) in the memory 5b or the frame buffer 5c (step S3). Then, the CPU 5a creates a list screen showing all of the image data read from the card medium and shooting conditions, and instead of the selection screen in the shooting operation displayed on the operation screen 16, or the selection screen The list screen is displayed inside. As a result, the image data, character data, and shooting conditions that the user U likes can be selected. That is, shooting including the intensity of light emission of each flash 10 to 12, the preference of the entire shot image such as color, black and white, or sepia, zoom selection such as whole body, half-body or face-up shooting, and shooting modes such as camera angle In the conditions, the shooting conditions such as the shooting preference and the shooting mode that the user U likes are presented in the operation screen 16 so that the user U can preferentially select from among the selection options that can be selected. Further, it is displayed on the operation screen 16 that the image data of the card medium can be selected as the data of the background image and the foreground image. In addition to this description, the image data read from the card medium may be automatically selected and displayed on the operation screen 16, and the user U may be asked for permission for this selection.

Next, when the user U uses the touch pen 17 or the fingertip to finish selection of image data or character data such as the preference of the image on the operation screen 16, shooting conditions of the shooting mode, background image, etc. (step S 4). The CPU 5a operates the camera 8 and the flashes 10 to 12 using the selected shooting conditions, image data, and character data, and ends the shooting operation (step S5).
Subsequently, the CPU 5a causes the operation screen 16 to display a selection screen for the editing operation formed using the selection setting data for the editing operation previously held in the auxiliary storage device 5d (step S6). As a result, the automatic photo creation apparatus 1 proceeds from the photographing process to the editing process. Further, the CPU 5a determines whether or not a card medium is set in any of the card insertion openings 7a and 7b of the reader / writer device 7 (step S7), and if not set, jumps to the next step S9. To do.

  On the other hand, when the CPU 5a detects that a card medium is set in one of the card insertion slots 7a and 7b in the above step S7, the CPU 5a edits from the set card medium by the reader / writer device 7. Image data, character data, and preference data for editing conditions used in the operation are loaded and temporarily stored (data copied) in the memory 5b or the frame buffer 5c (step S8). Then, the CPU 5a creates a list screen showing all of the image data, character data, and editing conditions read from the card medium, and instead of the selection screen in the editing operation displayed on the operation screen 16, or The list screen is displayed in the selection screen. Thereby, image data, character data, and editing conditions that the user U likes can be selected. In other words, in addition to the image data stored in advance in the auxiliary storage device 5d, the image data of the card medium can be selected on the operation screen 16 as an image for editing to be combined with a photographed image such as a stamp image. Further, when the user U holds a specific stamp image arranged at one corner of the photographed image, for example, as a favorite edited image on the card medium, the editing condition for specifying the edited image data and the composite position Are displayed on the operation screen 16 as editing conditions that can be selected by the user U. Further, character data such as kanji, numbers, and alphabets read from the maid media are used in the editing process according to the selection of the user U and combined with the captured image in the same manner as in the shooting process.

Next, when the user U uses the touch pen 17 or the fingertip to finish selecting the editing conditions on the operation screen 16 and the selection of image data and character data such as a stamp image, the CPU 5a selects the selected editing conditions and image. Using the data and character data, editing processing including synthesis processing of the captured image and the edited image is performed (step S9). Specifically, when inputting the stamp image, the icon of the stamp image displayed on the operation screen 16 (including the one in the card medium) is tapped with the pen tip of the touch pen 17 and then the pen tip. Is brought into contact with the photographed image displayed on the operation screen 16, whereby the stamp image is pasted. When inputting a stamp character, an icon such as an alphabetic character or an icon indicating a card media stamp character is tapped with the pen tip of the touch pen 17, and the pen tip is displayed on the operation screen 16. An alphabetic character or the like is input by bringing it into contact with. Further, in the handwritten image composition process using the touch pen 17, the user U creates a handwritten image by operating the touch pen 17, and taps the icon displayed on the operation screen 16 at the tip of the touch pen 17. Then, by moving the pen tip while touching the photographed image displayed on the operation screen 16, a handwritten additional image made up of a picture or character created by the user U is input. It is.
The photographing operation and the editing operation shown in steps S2 to S9 are repeated until a predetermined number of operations determined according to the coin inserted into the coin insertion unit 15 is reached. The captured image after the editing process is held in the frame buffer 5c.

When the editing process as described above is completed, the automatic photo creation apparatus 1 shifts from the editing process to the printing process, and the CPU 5a sets the card media in one of the card insertion openings 7a and 7b of the reader / writer apparatus 7. It is determined whether or not it has been performed (step S10).
When the CPU 5a detects that a card medium is set in one of the card insertion openings 7a and 7b, the CPU 5a is used for editing operation from the set card medium by the reader / writer device 7. The printing condition preference data is loaded and temporarily stored (data copied) in the memory 5b or the frame buffer 5c (step S11). Then, the CPU 5a creates a list screen showing all the printing conditions read from the card medium, and displays the list screen on the operation screen 16 as a selection screen in the printing operation. Thereby, it is possible to select a printing condition that the user U likes. That is, in the printing conditions such as the size of the photographed image printed on the print sheet and the sheet layout such as the printing position, the printing conditions preferred by the user U are preferentially selected from the selection options that the user U can select. It is presented in the operation screen 16 so that it can be done. In addition to this description, the printing condition data read from the card medium may be automatically selected and displayed on the operation screen 16, and the user U may be asked for permission for this selection.

On the other hand, when the CPU 5a determines in step S10 that no card medium is set in each card insertion slot 7a, 7b of the reader / writer device 7, the CPU 5a is held in advance in the auxiliary storage device 5d. A selection screen for the printing operation formed using the data for selection setting in the printing operation is displayed on the operation screen 16.
Subsequently, when the printing condition selection operation by the user U is completed, the CPU 5a moves the printer 6 according to the selected printing condition to create a printed photograph and the like, and prints out from the outlet (step S12).

[Card media data editing / updating]
As shown in step S13 of FIG. 5, when the CPU 5a detects that a coin of a specified value has been inserted into the coin insertion unit 15 by the user U, the CPU 5a performs a predetermined initial process in the same manner as in step S1. A screen is displayed on the operation screen 16 to notify the user U that the player is ready to play.
Subsequently, the CPU 5a determines whether or not a card medium is set in any of the card insertion openings 7a and 7b of the reader / writer device 7 (step S14). If not, the auxiliary storage device 5d is determined. The selection screen for the shooting operation formed using the selection setting data for the shooting operation held in advance is displayed on the operation screen 16.

On the other hand, when the CPU 5a detects that the card medium is set in any of the card insertion openings 7a and 7b in the step S14, the CPU 5a causes the reader / writer device 7 to display an image from the set card medium. Data, character data, shooting conditions, editing conditions, and printing condition preference data are loaded and temporarily stored (data copied) in the memory 5b or the frame buffer 5c (step S15). Then, the CPU 5a creates a selection screen for the photographing operation such as the list screen based on the image data, character data, and photographing conditions read from the card medium, and displays the selection screen on the operation screen 16.
Next, when the user U uses the touch pen 17 or the fingertip to finish selecting the image preference and the shooting condition of the shooting mode, the image data such as the background image, and the character data on the operation screen 16 (step S16). The CPU 5a operates the camera 8 and the flashes 10 to 12 using the selected shooting conditions, image data, and character data to end the shooting operation (step S17), and proceeds from the shooting process to the editing process.
In step S16, the selected image, character, and shooting condition data are stored in the memory 5b or the frame buffer 5c as new selection (preference) data.

Subsequently, when the CPU 5a determines that the preference data loaded in the step S15 includes image data, character data, and editing condition data that can be used for the editing operation, the CPU 5a uses these data, A selection screen for editing operation is created and displayed on the operation screen 16.
On the other hand, if the preference data acquired in step S15 does not include image data, character data, or editing condition data that can be used for the editing operation, the CPU 5a performs the editing operation stored in advance in the auxiliary storage device 5d. A selection screen in the editing operation formed using the selection setting data is displayed on the operation screen 16.
Thereafter, when the user U selects an image such as a stamp image, characters, and editing conditions used for editing processing on the operation screen 16 (step S18), the CPU 5a performs editing processing according to the selected images, characters, and editing conditions. (Step S19), the process proceeds from the editing process to the printing process.
In step S18, the selected image, character, and editing condition data are stored in the memory 5b or the frame buffer 5c as new selection (preference) data.

Subsequently, the CPU 5a determines whether or not a card medium is set in any of the card insertion openings 7a and 7b of the reader / writer device 7 (step S20). When the CPU 5a detects that the card medium is set, the CPU 5a selects all the image data, character data, and conditions in each operation selected by the user U in the selection operation for the shooting operation and the editing operation. The data is presented on the operation screen 16 and the user U is asked to edit the data as to whether or not to copy data to the card medium for each data (step S21).
Then, the CPU 5a rewrites and updates the image data, the character data, the photographing condition, and the editing condition data on the card medium by the reader / writer device 7 according to the selection of the user U (step S22). As described above, the image data, character data, and condition data stored in the card medium are rewritten by the reader / writer device 7, so that the image or data of each condition previously selected in the next play is automatically converted into the automatic photo creation device 1. The user U can drive the apparatus 1 with his / her favorite images, characters and conditions, and can easily obtain a desired printed photograph or the like.

On the other hand, when the CPU 5a determines in step S20 that no card medium is set in each of the card insertion openings 7a and 7b of the reader / writer device 7, the CPU 5a adds the print condition to the preference data loaded in step S15. Whether or not data is included is checked. When the CPU 5a determines that the printing condition data is included, the CPU 5a creates a selection screen for the printing operation using the data and displays it on the operation screen 16.
On the other hand, if the preference data acquired in step S15 does not include print condition data, the CPU 5a prints using the selection setting data in the printing operation stored in advance in the auxiliary storage device 5d. An operation selection screen is displayed on the operation screen 16.
Thereafter, when the user U selects a desired printing condition on the operation screen 16, the CPU 5a drives the printer 6 according to the selected printing condition and prints out a printed photograph or the like (step S23).
In addition to the above description, the configuration may be such that the printing medium data selected in step S23 is updated (stored) in the card media as new selection (preference) data.

[Image data editing / updating of card media]
As shown in step S24 of FIG. 6, when the CPU 5a detects that the coin of the specified value has been inserted into the coin insertion unit 15 by the user U, the CPU 5a performs a predetermined initial process as in step S1. A screen is displayed on the operation screen 16 to notify the user U that the player is ready to play.
Subsequently, the CPU 5a determines whether or not a card medium is set in any of the card insertion openings 7a and 7b of the reader / writer device 7 (step S25). If not, the auxiliary storage device 5d is determined. The selection screen for the shooting operation formed using the selection setting data for the shooting operation held in advance is displayed on the operation screen 16.

On the other hand, in step S25, when the CPU 5a detects that a card medium is set in one of the card insertion openings 7a and 7b, the CPU 5a uses the reader / writer device 7 to read an image from the set card medium. Data, character data, shooting conditions, editing conditions, and printing condition preference data are loaded and temporarily stored (data copied) in the memory 5b or the frame buffer 5c (step S26). Then, the CPU 5a creates a selection screen for the shooting operation such as the list screen based on the image data read from the card medium and the shooting conditions, and displays the selection screen on the operation screen 16.
Next, when the user U uses the touch pen 17 or the fingertip to finish selection of image data and character data such as the preference of the image on the operation screen 16, shooting conditions in the shooting mode, background image, and the like (step S <b> 27). The CPU 5a operates the camera 8 and the flashes 10 to 12 using the selected shooting conditions, image data, and character data to end the shooting operation (step S28), and proceeds from the shooting process to the editing process.

Subsequently, when the CPU 5a determines that the preference data loaded in the step S26 includes image data, character data, and editing condition data that can be used for the editing operation, the CPU 5a uses these data, A selection screen for editing operation is created and displayed on the operation screen 16.
On the other hand, if the preference data acquired in step S26 does not include image data, character data, or editing condition data that can be used for the editing operation, the CPU 5a performs the editing operation stored in advance in the auxiliary storage device 5d. A selection screen in the editing operation formed using the selection setting data is displayed on the operation screen 16.
Thereafter, the user U selects an image such as a stamp image, characters, and editing conditions used for the editing process on the operation screen 16 (step S29), and the image data, character data, and editing condition data such as the selected image. Is stored in the memory 5b or the frame buffer 5c as new selection (preference) data.

Subsequently, the CPU 5a determines whether or not a card medium is set in any of the card insertion openings 7a and 7b of the reader / writer device 7 (step S30). When detecting that the card medium is set, the CPU 5a receives the input of the editing instruction of the user U with respect to the editing image such as the photographed image and the stamp image selected in step S29, and inputs the input. In accordance with the instruction, an editing process is performed on the corresponding captured image or editing image (step S31). Thereafter, the CPU 5a forms a selection screen for selecting whether or not to store in the card medium for each of the edited captured image and editing image, and displays the selection screen on the operation screen 16.
Then, the CPU 5a rewrites and updates the image data, the character data, and the editing condition data on the card medium with the reader / writer device 7 according to the selection of the user U (step S32). As described above, since the image data and character data stored in the card medium are rewritten by the reader / writer device 7, the automatic photo creation device uses the editing image selected before the next play and the data of the created captured image. 1, the user U can easily obtain a new printed photograph including the image data that he / she likes.

On the other hand, when the CPU 5a determines in step S30 that no card medium is set in each card insertion slot 7a, 7b of the reader / writer device 7, the CPU 5a instructs the user U to edit the captured image or the like. The input is accepted, and an editing process is performed on the photographed image or the like according to the input instruction (step S33), and the process proceeds from the editing process to the printing process.
Thereafter, the CPU 5a checks whether or not the preference data loaded in step S26 includes print condition data. When the CPU 5a determines that the printing condition data is included, the CPU 5a creates a selection screen for the printing operation using the data and displays it on the operation screen 16.
On the other hand, if the preference data acquired in step S26 does not include printing condition data, the CPU 5a prints using the selection setting data in the printing operation held in advance in the auxiliary storage device 5d. An operation selection screen is displayed on the operation screen 16.
Thereafter, when the user U selects a desired printing condition on the operation screen 16, the CPU 5a drives the printer 6 according to the selected printing condition and prints out a printed photograph or the like (step S34).
In addition to the above description, a new selection is made of an image such as a background image, characters, shooting condition data, and printing condition data selected in step S34 in the shooting operation selected in step S27. The (preference) data may be configured to be updated (stored) in a card medium.

7 to 11 are flowcharts of operations that can be additionally executed by the computer apparatus (control means) 5 of the present invention in addition to the operations of FIG. 4, FIG. 5, or FIG. Hereinafter, additional operations shown in FIGS. 7 to 11 will be described.
[Use of personal information on card media and Internet registration]
As shown in step S35 of FIG. 7, when the CPU 5a detects that a coin of a specified value has been inserted into the coin insertion unit 15 by the user U, the CPU 5a performs a predetermined initial process as in step S1. A screen is displayed on the operation screen 16 to notify the user U that the player is ready to play.
Subsequently, the CPU 5a determines whether or not a card medium is set in any of the card insertion openings 7a and 7b of the reader / writer device 7 (step S36). Proceed to

On the other hand, when the CPU 5a detects that the card medium is set in any of the card insertion slots 7a and 7b in step S36, the CPU 5a uses the card medium set by the reader / writer device 7. Personal information data such as the name, age, birthday, and address of the person U is loaded and temporarily stored (data copied) in the memory 5b or the frame buffer 5c (step S37).
Next, the CPU 5a displays on the operation screen 16 a selection screen for the shooting operation formed using the selection setting data for the shooting operation held in advance in the auxiliary storage device 5d. Using the touch pen 17 or the fingertip, image data such as the preference of the image on the operation screen 16, the shooting conditions of the shooting mode, and the background image are selected (step S38). Then, the CPU 5a operates the camera 8 and the flashes 10 to 12 using the selected shooting conditions and image data to end the shooting operation (step S39), and proceeds from the shooting process to the editing process.

Subsequently, the CPU 5a displays a selection screen in the editing operation formed using the selection setting data in the editing operation held in advance in the auxiliary storage device 5d on the operation screen 16 so that a stamp image or the like is displayed. Editing images and editing conditions are selected (step S40).
Next, the CPU 5a determines whether or not a card medium is set in any of the card insertion openings 7a and 7b of the reader / writer device 7 (step S41). When detecting that the card medium is set, the CPU 5a receives the input of the editing instruction of the user U with respect to the editing image such as the photographed image and the stamp image selected in step S29, and inputs the input. In accordance with the instruction, editing processing is performed on the corresponding photographed image or editing image.
In the editing process, the CPU 5a displays all the personal information data loaded in step S37 on the operation screen 16, and according to the selection of the user U, the personal information data, for example, An editing process for combining the name of the user U with a desired position in the photographed image is also performed (step S42).

  Next, the CPU 5a displays a selection screen on the operation screen 16 as to whether or not to register the personal information data on the web. When the user U chooses to perform web registration, the CPU 5a enters a predetermined site via the Internet. Connect and automatically register the personal information data on the site. Further, in accordance with the input instruction from the user U, the CPU 5a causes the server set in the site to store the edited captured image and the image data of the editing image specified by the user U (step S43). ). As described above, since personal information data stored in the card medium can be WEB-registered, customer (user) management of the automatic photo creation apparatus 1 can be easily performed. Furthermore, it is possible to provide various services to registered users, and the customer expansion of the automatic photo creation apparatus 1 can be facilitated.

  Subsequently, the CPU 5a forms a selection screen for selecting whether to store in the card medium for each captured image or editing image edited in step S42 and displays the selection screen on the operation screen 16. Then, the CPU 5a rewrites and updates the image data on the card medium, the image for editing, and the data on the editing conditions by the reader / writer device 7 according to the selection of the user U (step S44). When the image data is updated on the card medium, the CPU 5a can also store the personal information data and the image data such as the photographed image after the editing process in the card medium in association with each other. . Specifically, for example, the name included in the personal information data can be stored in the card medium using the file name of the image data of the photographed image after the editing process (for example, “User U Photo 1”). it can.

On the other hand, when the CPU 5a determines in step S41 that the card medium is not set in each card insertion slot 7a, 7b of the reader / writer device 7, the CPU 5a instructs the user U to edit the photographed image or the like. The input is accepted, and an editing process is performed on the photographed image or the like according to the input instruction (step S45), and the process proceeds from the editing process to the printing process.
Subsequently, the CPU 5a causes the operation screen 16 to display a selection screen for the printing operation formed using the selection setting data for the printing operation held in advance in the auxiliary storage device 5d.
Thereafter, when the user U selects a desired printing condition on the operation screen 16, the CPU 5a drives the printer 6 according to the selected printing condition and prints out a printed photograph or the like (step S46).
In addition to the above description, an image such as a background image in the photographing operation selected in step S38, data of photographing conditions, and data of printing conditions selected in step S46 are newly selected (preferences). ) The data may be updated (stored) in the card media.

[Use data of card media points]
As shown in step S47 of FIG. 8, when the CPU 5a detects that the coin for the specified value has been inserted into the coin insertion unit 15 by the user U, the CPU 5a performs a predetermined initial process as in step S1. A screen is displayed on the operation screen 16 to notify the user U that the player is ready to play.
Subsequently, the CPU 5a determines whether or not a card medium is set in any of the card insertion openings 7a and 7b of the reader / writer device 7 (step S48). When it is detected that the card medium is set, the CPU 5a causes the reader / writer device 7 to load point data from the set card medium and temporarily store it in the memory 5b or the frame buffer 5c. (Data copy) is performed (step S49).

Next, in the above step S49, when the point number data is not loaded, the CPU 5a uses the selection setting data for the shooting operation stored in advance in the auxiliary storage device 5d. An operation selection screen is displayed on the operation screen 16.
On the other hand, when the point number data is loaded in step S49, the CPU 5a changes the shooting conditions such as the shooting mode that can be selected by the user U according to the number of points, and selects the shooting operation. It is displayed on the operation screen 16 as a screen. That is, the selection branch displayed in the selection screen for the shooting operation on the operation screen 16 is changed according to the number of points. More specifically, depending on the number of points, for example, the types of background images that can be selected by the user U can be increased or decreased, or a captured image in which the peripheral portion is surrounded by a gold edge can be obtained.
Then, when the user U ends the selection of image data such as the preference of the image on the operation screen 16, the shooting condition of the shooting mode, and the background image using the touch pen 17 and the fingertip (step S 50), the CPU 5 a selects The camera 8 and each of the flashes 10 to 12 are operated using the shooting conditions and image data thus set to finish the shooting operation (step S51), and the process proceeds from the shooting process to the editing process.
In the shooting operation of step S51, when the data of the number of points is loaded in step S49, the CPU 5a changes the number of times of shooting and the shooting time according to the number of points. The user U can perform the photographing operation at a desired number of times and time within the number of times and the photographing time determined by the number of points.

Subsequently, the CPU 5a displays a selection screen in the editing operation formed using the selection setting data in the editing operation held in advance in the auxiliary storage device 5d on the operation screen 16 so that a stamp image or the like is displayed. The editing image and the editing conditions are selected (step S52).
Then, the CPU 5a receives an input of the editing instruction of the user U with respect to the editing image such as the captured image or stamp image selected in step S52, and the corresponding captured image or editing image is input according to the input instruction. Edit processing is performed (step S53).
In the photographing operation of step S53, when the point number data is loaded in step S49, the CPU 5a changes the editing function, the editing time, etc. according to the point number. The user U can appropriately select an editing function determined by the number of points, or can perform editing work within the editing time.

Next, the CPU 5a determines whether or not a card medium is set in any of the card insertion openings 7a and 7b of the reader / writer device 7 (step S54). When it is detected that the card medium is set, the CPU 5a adds up the points to be increased / decreased according to the selection of the user U in the shooting operation and the editing operation (step S55). That is, if the user U does not select (use) the shooting mode or editing function added according to the number of points, a predetermined number of points is added. On the other hand, when used, the number of points corresponding to the additional mode or function is subtracted.
Thereafter, the CPU 5a rewrites and updates the data of the number of points collected in step S55 to a card medium by the reader / writer device 7 (step S56).

On the other hand, when the CPU 5a determines in step S54 that no card medium is set in each of the card insertion openings 7a and 7b of the reader / writer device 7, the CPU 5a prints the print stored in the auxiliary storage device 5d in advance. The selection screen for the printing operation formed using the selection setting data for the operation is displayed on the operation screen 16.
Thereafter, when the user U selects a desired printing condition on the operation screen 16, the CPU 5a drives the printer 6 according to the selected printing condition and prints out a printed photograph or the like (step S57).

As described above, in the selection operation of the shooting operation and the editing operation performed by the user U, the selection branch changes according to the number of points stored in the card medium, so that the user U can perform shooting according to the number of points. It is possible to enjoy the automatic photo creation apparatus 1 by enjoying services such as increasing the number of times and adding functions in each operation, and to increase the satisfaction. On the other hand, since the above services can be enjoyed by accumulating the number of points, the user U's willingness to play for the automatic photo creation device 1 can be increased by points, and the usage rate of the device 1 can be improved. it can.
In addition to the above description, the printing conditions that can be selected by the user U may be changed according to the number of points loaded in step S49.

[Use of credit amount data]
In FIG. 9, since the number of credits is stored in the card medium and the card medium has an alternative function to the print consideration, the form of FIG. 9 is not an embodiment of the present invention but a comparative example of the present invention. .
As shown in step S58 of FIG. 9, when the CPU 5a detects that a coin has been inserted into the coin insertion unit 15 by the user U, the CPU 5a displays a predetermined initial screen as in the operation screen as in step S1. 16 is displayed.
Subsequently, the CPU 5a determines whether or not a card medium is set in any of the card insertion openings 7a and 7b of the reader / writer device 7 (step S59). When detecting that the card medium is set, the CPU 5a causes the reader / writer device 7 to load the credit amount data from the set card medium and temporarily stores it in the memory 5b or the frame buffer 5c. (Data copy) is performed (step S60).

Next, in step S60, when the credit amount data is not loaded, the CPU 5a is in a standby state until a specified coin is inserted. The selection screen for the shooting operation formed using the selection setting data for the shooting operation stored in advance in the storage device 5d is displayed on the operation screen 16 to notify the user U that the player is ready to play. .
On the other hand, when the credit amount data is loaded in step S60, the CPU 5a obtains the difference between the credit amount and the specified consideration (coin) and detects that the coin corresponding to the difference is inserted. It will be in a standby state until it does (step S61). Then, when coins corresponding to the difference are inserted, the CPU 5a causes the operation screen 16 to display a selection screen for the shooting operation.
Subsequently, when the user U uses the touch pen 17 or the fingertip to finish the selection of image data such as the preference of the image on the operation screen 16, the shooting condition of the shooting mode, and the background image (step S <b> 62), the CPU 5 a The camera 8 and the flashes 10 to 12 are operated using the selected shooting conditions and image data to complete the shooting operation (step S63), and the process proceeds from the shooting process to the editing process.

Subsequently, the CPU 5a displays a selection screen in the editing operation formed using the selection setting data in the editing operation held in advance in the auxiliary storage device 5d on the operation screen 16 so that a stamp image or the like is displayed. The editing image and editing conditions are selected (step S64).
Then, the CPU 5a accepts the input of the editing instruction of the user U with respect to the editing image such as the captured image or the stamp image selected in step S64, and the corresponding captured image or editing image is input according to the input instruction. Edit processing is performed (step S65).

  Next, the CPU 5a determines whether or not a card medium is set in any of the card insertion openings 7a and 7b of the reader / writer device 7 (step S66). When it is detected that the card medium is set, the CPU 5a determines the number of credits used according to the selection of the user U in the shooting operation and the editing operation, and the number of credits determined. Data is rewritten and updated on the card medium by the reader / writer device 7 (step S67).

On the other hand, when the CPU 5a determines in step S66 that no card media is set in each of the card insertion openings 7a and 7b of the reader / writer device 7, the CPU 5a prints the print stored in the auxiliary storage device 5d in advance. The selection screen for the printing operation formed using the selection setting data for the operation is displayed on the operation screen 16.
Thereafter, when the user U selects a desired printing condition on the operation screen 16, the CPU 5a drives the printer 6 according to the selected printing condition and prints out a printed photograph or the like (step S68).
As described above, the user U can use the automatic photo creation device 1 in accordance with the number of credits stored in the card medium, and the user U can use the device without preparing or putting in a play fee. 1 can be played.
In addition to the above description, a configuration may be used in which the number of credits of the card medium is changed by increasing or decreasing the number of credits according to the printing conditions selected in step S68.

[Data exchange with card media]
As shown in step S69 of FIG. 10, when the CPU 5a detects that the coin of the specified value has been inserted into the coin insertion unit 15 by the user U, the CPU 5a performs a predetermined initial process in the same manner as in step S1. A screen is displayed on the operation screen 16 to notify the user U that the player is ready to play.
Subsequently, the CPU 5a determines whether or not a card medium is set in any of the card insertion openings 7a and 7b of the reader / writer device 7 (step S70). If not, the auxiliary storage device 5d is determined. The selection screen for the shooting operation formed using the selection setting data for the shooting operation held in advance is displayed on the operation screen 16.

On the other hand, when the CPU 5a detects in step S70 that the card medium is set in any of the card insertion openings 7a and 7b, the CPU 5a uses the reader / writer device 7 to read information from the set card medium. Data, image data, and character data are loaded and temporarily stored (data copied) in the memory 5b or the frame buffer 5c (step S71). Further, the data of this information includes data on conditions in each of the photographing operation, editing operation, and printing operation, the personal information data, the number of points, or the number of credits. In the following description, a case where condition data for each of the above operations is included will be described.
Subsequently, the CPU 5 a creates a selection screen for the photographing operation such as the list screen based on the image data read from the card medium and photographing conditions, and displays the selection screen on the operation screen 16.
Next, when the user U uses the touch pen 17 or the fingertip to finish selection of image data and character data such as the preference of the image on the operation screen 16, the shooting conditions of the shooting mode, the background image, and the like (step S72). The CPU 5a operates the camera 8 and the flashes 10 to 12 using the selected shooting conditions, image data, and character data to end the shooting operation (step S73), and proceeds from the shooting process to the editing process.

Subsequently, when the CPU 5a determines that the image data, character data, and information data loaded in step S71 include image data, character data, and editing condition data that can be used for the editing operation, the CPU 5a displays the data. Is used to create a selection screen in the editing operation and display it on the operation screen 16.
Thereafter, the user U selects an image such as a stamp image, characters, and editing conditions used for the editing process on the operation screen 16 (step S74), and the image data, character data, and editing condition data such as the selected image. Is stored in the memory 5b or the frame buffer 5c as new selection (preference) data.
Next, the CPU 5a receives the input of the editing instruction of the user U with respect to the editing image such as the captured image or stamp image selected in step S74, and uses the corresponding captured image or editing image in accordance with the input instruction. The editing process is performed (step S75), and the process proceeds from the editing process to the printing process.

Subsequently, the CPU 5a determines whether or not a card medium is set in each card insertion slot 7a, 7b of the reader / writer device 7 (step S76). When it is detected that no card medium is set in the two insertion openings 7a and 7b, the CPU 5a proceeds to the following step S79.
On the other hand, when the CPU 5a detects that the card media are set in both the two insertion slots 7a and 7b in the above step S76, image data such as a photographed image and an editing image, character data, etc. A selection screen for selecting and inputting whether or not to exchange data and data of the above information (condition data) is created and displayed on the operation screen 16 to indicate to the user U whether images or characters or information exchange is necessary. (Step S77). If the user U does not agree to the image / character exchange and information exchange, the process proceeds to step S79. If the user U agrees to the image / character exchange and / or information exchange, the reader / writer is in accordance with an input instruction from the user U. The apparatus 7 is moved to execute image and / or character exchange and / or information exchange (data copy) in each card medium (step S78).

Subsequently, when the CPU 5a determines that the information data loaded in step S71 includes the printing condition data in the printing operation, the CPU 5a creates a selection screen in the printing operation using the data. And displayed on the operation screen 16.
Thereafter, when the user U selects a desired printing condition on the operation screen 16, the CPU 5a drives the printer 6 according to the selected printing condition and prints out a printed photograph or the like (step S79).
As described above, information, images, and character data can be exchanged between the card media set in the two card insertion slots 7a and 7b. Therefore, even when there are a plurality of users U, each user has an image of the same image. Data, character data of the same character, data such as shooting conditions can be held in the card medium.
In addition to the above description, the printing condition selected in step S79 may be stored in both of the two card media.

[Use data from multiple card media]
As shown in step S80 of FIG. 11, when the CPU 5a detects that a coin of a specified value has been inserted into the coin insertion unit 15 by the user U, the CPU 5a performs a predetermined initial process in the same manner as in step S1. A screen is displayed on the operation screen 16 to notify the user U that the player is ready to play.
Subsequently, the CPU 5a determines whether or not a card medium is set in the card insertion slot 7a of the reader / writer device 7 (step S81). If it is not set in the insertion slot 7a, the CPU 5a The process jumps to step S83.

  On the other hand, in step S81, when the CPU 5a detects that a card medium is set in the card insertion slot 7a, the CPU 5a uses the reader / writer device 7 to read information from the card medium set in the insertion slot 7a. Data, image data, and character data are loaded and temporarily stored (data copied) in the memory 5b or the frame buffer 5c (step S82). Further, the data of this information includes data on conditions in each of the photographing operation, editing operation, and printing operation, the personal information data, the number of points, or the number of credits. In the following description, the case where the condition data and the number of points in each of the above operations are stored in the card medium in the insertion slot 7a will be described.

Next, the CPU 5a determines whether or not a card medium is set in the card insertion slot 7b of the reader / writer device 7 (step S83). In the following description, the case where the condition data and the number of points in each of the above operations are also stored in the card medium in the insertion slot 7b will be described as an example.
Subsequently, when the CPU 5a detects that a card medium is set in the card insertion slot 7b, the CPU 5a uses the reader / writer device 7 to read information data or images from the card medium set in the insertion slot 7b. Data or character data is loaded and temporarily stored (data copy) in the memory 5b or the frame buffer 5c (step S84).

Thereafter, the CPU 5a creates a selection screen for the photographing operation such as the list screen based on the image data and photographing conditions read in steps S82 and S84, and displays the selection screen on the operation screen 16. That is, images such as shooting conditions in the shooting operation and selectable background images change according to the data stored in the two card media (step S85), and the number of selections of the user U is increased. In addition, in the selection screen of step S85, when data of the number of points is loaded from both of the two card media, a message for inquiring whether or not to match the number of points is written, Depending on the number of points or the number of points after adding them, the types of background images that can be selected can be increased or decreased, and the shooting conditions can be changed.
Next, when the user U uses the touch pen 17 or the fingertip to finish the selection of image data on the operation screen 16 such as the preference of the image, the shooting conditions of the shooting mode, and the background image, the CPU 5a selects the selected shooting. Using the conditions and image data, the camera 8 and the flashes 10 to 12 are operated to complete the shooting operation (step S86), and the process proceeds from the shooting process to the editing process. Also in this photographing operation, the number of times of photographing can be changed according to the number of points described above or the number of points after addition.

  Subsequently, when the CPU 5a determines that the information, image data, and character data loaded in steps S82 and S84 include image data, character data, and editing condition data that can be used for the editing operation, the CPU 5a Using these data, a selection screen for editing operation is created and displayed on the operation screen 16 to cause the user U to select an edited image (step S87). In addition, the selection screen presented to the user U in step S87 changes depending on the editing conditions in the editing operation and the images and characters such as selectable stamp images and the like stored in the two card media. The number of options of user U is increased. In addition, in this selection screen, when data of the number of points is loaded from both of the two card media, a message for inquiring the selection of whether or not to match the number of points is displayed, and the number of points or Changes such as addition of editable items that can be selected are made according to the number of points after the summation (step S88).

Next, the CPU 5a receives an input of an editing instruction from the user U for the editing image such as the captured image or stamp image selected in step S88, and uses the corresponding captured image or editing image in accordance with the input instruction. The editing process is executed, and the editing process shifts to the printing process.
After that, when the CPU 5a determines that the information data loaded in the above steps S82 and S84 includes the printing condition data in the printing operation, the CPU 5a uses the data to display the selection screen in the printing operation. Created and displayed on the operation screen 16.
When the user U selects a desired printing condition on the operation screen 16, the CPU 5a drives the printer 6 according to the selected printing condition and prints out a printed photograph or the like (step S89).
As described above, the card media information and image data set in each of the two card insertion slots 7a and 7b are presented to the user U as a reading selection, and therefore the user U appropriately stores these data. In combination, the photographing operation, the editing operation, and the printing operation can be performed.

  In the present embodiment configured as described above, the reader / writer device (reading means) 7 is installed, and the reader / writer device 7 is stored in the card medium (storage medium) of the user U. Read data. When the computer device (control means) 5 selects each of the photographing operation, the editing operation, and the printing operation, the user data read by the reader / writer device 7 is presented to the user U and selected. Therefore, each operation described above can be performed with images and conditions that the user U prefers, and the preferences of the user U can be reflected. As a result, it is possible to easily cope with a wide variety of user U's preferences, to give sufficient satisfaction to the user U, and to configure the automatic photo creation device 1 excellent in playability and entertainment. can do. Further, since the reader / writer device 7 directly accesses the data in the card media carried by the user U, the card media can be used as an external memory of the automatic photo creation device 1. At the same time, image data and the like can be immediately displayed on the operation screen 16, and unnecessary waiting time can be prevented from occurring in the selection time of the user U.

In addition, all the said embodiment is illustrations and is not restrictive. The technical scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, and all modifications within the scope equivalent to the configurations described therein are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.
For example, in the above description, a configuration has been described in which a reader / writer device is provided to read and write data to a card medium as a storage medium. However, the present invention reads data from a storage medium carried by a user. Any device provided with reading means may be used. In addition, the form of the storage medium is not limited to card media, and data such as disk media such as floppy disks, CD-ROMs, CD-Rs, magneto-optical disks, DVDs, magnetic cards, IC cards, IC tags, etc. There is no limitation as long as it is possible to hold the value. Further, the connection form with the storage medium in the reading means is not limited to the slot form in which the storage medium is mounted. For example, a wireless form using infrared as a data carrier, or a connector such as a USB hub It may be a wired type that is connected via a cable.

In the above description, the configuration in which the computer device has a function of an editing unit for performing predetermined editing processing such as image synthesis has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, for example, an image processing board Alternatively, the MPU or the like mounted on the computer may be separately configured as an editing unit and connected to the computer apparatus.
In the above description, the CPU has described the configuration in which the data in the card medium set in the card insertion slot of the reader / writer device is copied to the memory or frame buffer of the computer device. It is only necessary that the stored data stored in is used in each operation of the automatic photo creation device in accordance with the user's instruction. For example, when the background image is stored in the storage medium together with the title (name) indicating the content Alternatively, only the name may be displayed on the operation screen as a selectable selection, and the image data of the background image may be transferred from the storage medium to a memory or the like only when selected by the user.

In the above description, the image data itself is stored in the storage medium and the reader / writer device reads the image data. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the location of the image data is determined. Information data to be shown, for example, a URL on the Internet may be stored in a storage medium, and the image data may be read from the Internet and used based on the URL read out by the computer device with the reader / writer device.
In the above description, the configuration in which the number of points is stored in a storage medium and read or written by the reader / writer device has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a terminal dedicated to the number of points is read. A configuration may be employed in which the terminal is provided separately from the writer device, and the number of points read from or written to the storage medium is read by the terminal. In such a configuration, even when the user does not play without paying the coin insertion part, the user can confirm the number of points, enjoy the addition of the service points, etc. Is possible. In addition to the above description, a configuration in which the number of credits in the storage medium is read or written by a terminal connected to a value receiving device such as a coin insertion unit may be used.

Furthermore, in the above embodiment, various types of printing devices such as sublimation printers, ink jet printers, laser printers, thermal transfer printers, fusion printers, thermal printers, photographic paper printers, and instant film printers are employed as printers. The model is not particularly limited.
Further, the print medium is not limited to a general seal print, but includes a printout output as a hard card, and the material and structure of the print medium are not particularly limited.

  In the above embodiment, shooting is started by inserting coins, but the present invention is not limited to this, and payment for shooting such as banknotes, prepaid cards, medals, credit cards, cash cards, etc. can be paid. If it is a thing, various aspects are included. Furthermore, in the above embodiment, a digital camera or a video camera can be used as the camera, but there is no particular limitation as long as the captured image can be converted into a digital signal.

1 is a side view of an automatic photo creation apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a front view which shows the principal part of the said automatic photo production apparatus when it sees from a user. It is a block diagram which shows the system principal part of the said automatic photo production apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows one operation | movement of the said automatic photo production apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows other operation | movement of the said automatic photo production apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows other operation | movement of the said automatic photo production apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows other operation | movement of the said automatic photo production apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows other operation | movement of the said automatic photo production apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the automatic photo production apparatus based on the comparative example of this invention . It is a flowchart which shows other operation | movement of the said automatic photo production apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows other operation | movement of the said automatic photo production apparatus.

Explanation of symbols

1 automatic photo creation device 5 computer device (control means, editing means)
6 Printer (printing means)
7 Reader / writer device (reading means)
8 Camera (photographing means)
10 Upper flash (photographing means)
11 Intermediate flash (photographing means)
12 Lower flash (photographing means)
16 Operation screen (editing means)
17 Touch pen (editing means)

Claims (7)

Photographing means for photographing a subject including a user and obtaining a photographed image;
Editing means for performing predetermined editing processing including synthesis processing of other images with respect to the captured image;
Printing means for printing the photographed image or the photographed image after the editing process on a print medium;
It is configured to be connectable to a storage medium that is carried by the user and does not store the number of times of printing output and does not have a function to replace the printing consideration, and images, characters, Reading means for reading predetermined user data relating to the user including at least one of shooting condition, editing condition, and printing condition;
It is stored in the storage medium without confirming the number of past print outputs in order to confirm whether or not the storage medium is connected after confirming the payment for payment and not to request additional compensation after confirming the connection. The user data is read by the reading means, and the read user data is presented to the user so that the user data can be preferentially selected as the user's preference data , and the photographing means, the editing means, And a control means for controlling at least one means of the printing means.   The automatic photo creation apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the reading unit is provided with a writing function for writing data to the storage medium. The storage medium stores personal information data of users included in the user data,
3. The automatic photo creation apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit has a function of WEB registration of personal information data read by the reading unit via the Internet. When the reading unit reads the number of points stored in the storage medium, the control unit determines at least one of the photographing unit, the editing unit, and the printing unit according to the number of points. automatic photography apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that to control. The reading means may be connectable to a plurality of the storage medium, any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that it has a write function of writing data to the plurality of the storage medium Automatic photo production device described in 1. The reading means is configured to be connectable to a plurality of the storage media,
The control unit controls at least one of the photographing unit, the editing unit, and the printing unit using user data stored in the plurality of storage media. The automatic photo production apparatus according to any one of to 5 . At least one of images, characters, shooting conditions, editing conditions, and printing conditions stored in a storage medium that is carried by the user and that does not store the number of times of printing output and does not have a function to replace printing consideration A step of reading predetermined user data relating to the user including two pieces of data;
A shooting step of shooting a subject including a user to obtain a shot image;
An editing step for performing a predetermined editing process including a process of combining another image with the captured image;
A printing step of printing the photographed image or the photographed image after the editing process on a print medium,
Check whether the storage medium is connected after confirming the payment for payment, and execute the reading step without confirming the number of past print outputs in order not to request additional compensation after confirming the connection, In at least one of the shooting step, the editing step, and the printing step, the user data read in the reading step is presented to the user so that the user data can be preferentially selected as the user preference data. A feature of automatic photo creation.

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