JP4516413B2 - Camera and imaging equipment - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a camera and an imaging device that associate photographed image data with an entity.

In some cases, it is desirable to manage an entity and an image in association with each other. For example, it is convenient if a product and image data obtained by photographing the product can be managed collectively.
Also, when traveling, it is often the case that snapshots are taken at the amusement park where they played, and commemorative photos are taken against the backdrop of the scenery of the temples and other places they visited. Especially when taking a family trip with a small child, it is not uncommon to take snapshots at restaurants and rest areas.

  On the other hand, amusement park tickets, temple explanations, admission tickets, etc., obtained at such times are often taken home as commemorations. Some people bring back chopsticks bags when they eat and matches where they rest.

  In general, a photographed image during a trip is once recorded as image data on a recording medium such as a memory card. After the trip, the digital image data is recorded on the memory card or on a HD (hard disk) of a personal computer (personal computer). Managed in the form.

  On the other hand, memorabilia such as amusement park tickets, temple guides and admission tickets, chopstick bags at restaurants, matches at rest places, etc. brought back from the destination as described above are neatly organized and stored. If you don't leave it, it will often be difficult to know where the place is in your memory, even if you can see the name of the place by looking at the description of the memorabilia. .

  This is a problem, so usually people who are diligently keep these souvenirs in a scrapbook or in a bag with explanatory labels attached. Therefore, on the one hand, the photograph taken is managed in the form of image data on a memory card or a personal computer, and on the other hand, the souvenir is managed in a scrapbook or a bag with an explanation label. Will be placed under control.

  By the way, when you return from your trip, you want to look back on your trip and renew your thoughts, find out how the trip was, or try to explain it to others. I often want to see the souvenirs I get together. In such a case, while looking at the image taken at the time of travel on the display screen of the personal computer, the scrapbook or bag is opened, and the souvenir at that time is taken out and viewed.

  However, while looking at the image, remembering that there was a ticket, etc. that was obtained at that time, which souvenir in the bag with a scrapbook or explanatory label is a souvenir related to the image you are currently viewing There are many cases where it is difficult to understand immediately.

  Conversely, taking out a souvenir first, viewing it, and trying to know what kind of scene the photograph (image data) taken at that time was, as described above, the image data is in a different form from the souvenir. Because it can only be stored and managed, while looking at a souvenir placed by the side, on the other hand, the image data is displayed as a thumbnail or interval (called a slide display on the Windows screen), and the image related to the souvenir is traced. It had to be searched with the eyes, which was a very time-consuming and troublesome task.

  Even so, writing the date and location of the memorabilia or the image data file name of the related photo on the label and pasting the label on the memorabilia is very time-consuming. It's not an easy task to do.

On the other hand, as another way to enjoy the photographed image, an album that stores the print image with the wireless tag attached and information such as sound and date corresponding to the print image in synchronization with the wireless tag are displayed on the dedicated display of the album or A system for displaying on a separated display has been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 1).
In addition to the printed image, the above-mentioned wireless tag has recently been remarkably developed as a means for managing general “things”. For example, a wireless tag (IC chip) is attached to a book that is one of the entities. An invention of a management method in a library has been proposed that makes it easy to detect the storage position of a book that is pasted and facilitates management of a large amount of books (see, for example, Patent Document 2).
JP-A-11-79328 Toshiba).
JP 2003-346086 A Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 11-079328

  However, the management method using the wireless tag as described above is to manage the entity itself to which the wireless tag is attached only directly by the number, and manages the image data and the entity in relation to each other. It hasn't been done yet.

  In view of the above-described conventional situation, an object of the present invention is to provide a camera and an imaging device having a function capable of clearly associating captured image data with an entity.

First, the camera of the first aspect of the invention includes an imaging means for electronically captured image as image data, and recording means for recording the image data captured by the imaging means on a recording medium, the captured image that Relation information output means for outputting information for associating an entity related to the image after photographing , the relation information output means is a specific information in the image data recorded by the recording means. An information medium having relationship information for associating image data with an entity related to the specific image data is output in a manner that can be attached to the entity, and the recording means is connected to the entity by the relationship information output means Corresponding to the output relationship information, link information indicating a relationship between the entity and specific image data recorded on the recording medium is recorded on the recording medium .

The relationship information includes, for example, the file name of the image data specified by the relationship information, and also includes, for example, a readable identification symbol of the information medium.

  The related information output means is configured to output the information medium in a state having a wireless tag in which the related information is recorded. In this case, the information medium is configured to include a seal that can be attached to the entity and the wireless tag attached to the seal, and can be applied to the entity by, for example, the relationship information output means. It is comprised so that it may consist of a mixture of a liquid and the said wireless tag. The liquid may be, for example, ink that is printed on the entity so as to be readable by the relation information output unit.

  In the camera of the first invention, the information medium may be a print medium on which a barcode converted from the related information is printed. For example, the entity is output by the related information output means. It may be composed of a bar code converted from the related information printed directly on, or may be composed of a print medium on which specific information is printed in advance.

The camera according to the first aspect of the invention further includes, for example, display means for displaying the specific image data related to the information medium .

Next, an image device according to a second aspect of the present invention is an image device that outputs relationship information for associating a captured image recorded on a recording medium with an entity corresponding to the image, from the recording medium. An information medium having relationship information for associating a reading means for reading data with specific image data in the image data recorded on the recording medium and an entity related to the specific image data; a relationship information output means for outputting at attendant possible embodiments to objects, in response to the relationship information output by the relationship information output means, the relationship between the specific image data recorded in the real object and the recording medium the link information indicating, configured and recording means for recording on the recording medium.

  As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a camera and an imaging device having a function capable of clearly associating captured image data with an entity.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the imaging unit includes, for example, an imaging unit 18, an imaging element 27, a lens 28, and the like. The recording unit includes, for example, an image processing unit 21, a memory card 23, and the like. For example, it consists of a ticket 1 etc., and the information medium consists of, for example, a tag 8, a seal 9, etc. The information output means includes, for example, related information output units 15 (15a to 15e), and the recording medium includes, for example, a memory card 23.

  Hereinafter, a ticket will be described as an example of an entity associated with photographed image data in the present invention. In the following description, printing and printing are used synonymously.

  FIG. 1 shows a wireless tag (or a contact tag, hereinafter referred to as a ticket obtained in connection with photographing from scenery, a person, a browsing object, a viewing object, and other photographing by a camera to which the present invention is applied as the first embodiment. It is a figure explaining the operation procedure until it affixes. In the figure, first, a ticket 1 "ABC TICKET" is obtained in step S1. This ticket 1 is a stub that remains at hand after paying an amusement park, a memorial hall, etc., or a temple admission fee. Of course, it may be a chopsticks bag with the name of the disposable chopsticks after use, or a small box of service matches.

  Next, in step S2, photograph 2 is taken with a digital camera. This photo 2 shows that your child is playing in an amusement park, and if it is a memorial hall, it is interesting to take pictures, but if you are in a temple, you can also take pictures. Although it is limited to the ones that are present, there are generally many items such as indoors, displays outdoors, historical ponds, and family photos against the backdrop of gardens and other gardens.

  Subsequently, in step S3, the photograph 2 is previewed on the display screen 4 of the camera 3. This preview may be performed immediately after shooting, after shooting is completed, or after returning to an inn or hotel. In short, any time can be used as long as the memory of the relationship between the photograph 2 taken and the ticket 1 obtained is not lost.

  In step S4, when the desired image data (photo 2) is displayed on the display screen 4 of the camera 3 by the above preview, the shutter button 5 is pressed. As a result, the seal 7 is discharged from the seal discharge port 6 of the camera 3. The seal 7 includes a seal body 7-1 and a mount (release paper) 7-2, and a wireless tag 8 is attached to the seal body 7-1 in advance.

  Thereafter, in step S5, the photographer peels off the mount (release paper) 7-2 from the seal 7 and removes the seal body 7-1 from an appropriate blank portion (upper left corner in the figure) of the ticket 1. Part).

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the camera 1 that discharges the sticker 7 to which the wireless tag 8 is attached in the first embodiment. As shown in the figure, the camera 3 includes a camera body 14 and a related information output unit 15 (15a).

  The camera body 14 includes a C-CPU 16, a controller 21 of a tag writer 20 that constitutes an imaging unit 18, an audio processing unit 19, and a related information output unit 15a of the present embodiment connected to the C-CPU 16 via a bus 17. , An image processing unit 21, an image display unit 22, and a memory card 23 are provided.

  Further, the camera main body 14 includes a main body operation unit 24 directly connected to the C-CPU 16, an audio output unit 25 connected to the audio processing unit 19, a speaker connection terminal 26 connected to the audio output unit 25, and an imaging unit 18. An image sensor 27 connected to the image sensor 27 and a lens 28 disposed in front of the image pickup surface of the image sensor 27 are provided.

  The C-CPU 16 connects / cuts off a power supply unit (not shown) based on an operation event input from the main body operation unit 24, controls the zoom or focus of the lens 28 by the lens driving unit, and captures images via the imaging unit 18. Control of driving of the element 27, that is, control of image capturing, control of recording of captured image data processed by the image processing unit 21 to the memory card 23, display screen 4 of the display device via the image display unit 22 (see FIG. 1) ), Display control to the audio processing unit 19 for driving the speaker to emit sound via the audio output unit 25 and the speaker connection terminal 26, instructions to the controller 21 of the tag writer 20, and the like.

  The related information output unit 15 a includes a continuous seal 29 and a feeding unit 31 in addition to the tag writer 20 described above. The tag writer 20 includes a transmission / reception unit 32 and an antenna 33 in addition to the controller 21 described above.

  The continuous seal 29 is detachably attached to the related information output unit 15a as a consumable in a state where a plurality of seals 7 each having the tag 8 shown in FIG. It is what has been.

  The controller 21 of the tag writer 20 communicates with the tag 8 via the transmission / reception unit 32 and the antenna 33, and details as relation information for associating the tag 8 with image data and an entity related to the image data. Write link information to be described later.

  Although not shown in particular, the feed unit 31 includes a seal discharge device including a cutter device, a roller pair, a motor, a drive unit, a sheet position detection sensor, and the like, and the tag 8 in which link information is written as described above. The seal 7 is separated from the continuous seal 29, and the separated seal 7 is discharged from the seal discharge port 6 shown in FIG. 1 to the outside as shown in FIG.

  The C-CPU 16 writes the link information written in the tag 8 in a predetermined data writing area of the image data stored in the memory card 23 via the image processing unit 21. Thereby, the association between the photographed photograph (image data, the same applies hereinafter) 2 and the ticket 1 is completed. That is, the ticket 1 as an entity and the photograph 2 are linked through the seal 7 to which the tag 8 is attached and the link information written in the tag 8.

  Here, the tag 8 will be described. In general, the wireless tag is classified according to a communication distance, and is classified into a contact type, a proximity type (several millimeters to several meters), and a remote type. The tag 8 used in the present embodiment belongs to a classification called a close contact type (ISO 10536) composed of an electromagnetic coupling type or a proximity type (ISO 15696) composed of an electromagnetic induction type, and the use frequency is, for example, 13.56 MHz. . An inexpensive one-time type in which information can be written only once is preferable.

  These tag communication systems basically operate on the same principle. In other words, the power supply system is a passive type that receives power from the reader / writer with an induced voltage caused by electromagnetic induction via a coil antenna. This type can communicate over a short distance, and is suitable for low cost and downsizing. Yes.

  Although the tag of this example is configured by an electromagnetic induction type, the communication distance between this type of tag and the reader / writer is within about 10 cm. In this example, the communication distance is from the viewpoint of miniaturization and cost reduction of the tag. Is set to 10 cm in the same manner, and this communication can be sufficiently handled by a passive type.

Therefore, in this example, the remote type such as the microwave type requires a built-in power source in the tag, so that the cost is high and the size is large.
As described above, according to the camera 3 of the first embodiment, the tag can be used to obtain the entity in a state where it can be attached to the entity such as a ticket, admission ticket stub, admission ticket, or catalog. Since the link information that correlates the image data of the photograph of the landscape, person, or ornament that is involved is output, the photographer attaches (sticks) the output from the camera (tagged sticker) to the entity. As a result, it is possible to easily retrieve image data from an entity simply by reading the link information at a later date.

  Note that the above link information may be a serial number of about 2 or 3 digits. If this is the case, a small tag can be used when a tag is used, and the seal as an information medium to which the tag is attached is also downsized. Because it can, it can handle small entities, so the range of use expands. Further, the tag information can be detected easily without contact, so it is very convenient and convenient.

  In addition, the above serial number is not a serial number that changes every time one tag 8, that is, one sheet 7 is used, but is changed when the acquisition location of the entity is changed or when the association between the entity and the photograph is ended. It is a serial number.

  FIG. 3 illustrates an operation procedure from the shooting of a landscape, a person, a browsing object, a viewing object, and other things by the camera to sticking a barcode seal to a ticket obtained in connection with the shooting as Example 2. FIG. In the figure, steps S21 to S23 are the same as steps S1 to S3 in FIG.

  If the desired image data (photo 2) is displayed on the display screen 4 of the camera 3 in the preview in step S23 (not shown in FIG. 3), the shutter button 5 is pressed in step S24. As a result, a seal 9 different from the case of FIG. 1 is discharged from the seal discharge port 6 of the camera 3.

The seal 9 also includes a seal body 9-1 and a mount (release paper) 9-2. However, in the case of this example, the barcode 11 is printed on the seal body 9-1.
Thereafter, in step S25, the photographer peels off the mount (release paper) 9-2 from the sticker 9 and removes the seal body 9-1 from an appropriate margin of the ticket 1 (upper left corner in the figure). Part).

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the related information output unit 15 (15b) of the camera 1 that discharges the sticker 9 printed with the barcode 11 in the second embodiment. In the figure, the camera body 14 shown in FIG. 2 is not shown.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the related information output unit 15 b in the camera 3 of this example includes a printer control unit 34, a link information / code conversion unit 35, a printing unit 36, and a seal feeding unit 37, and is continuously used as a consumable item. A seal 38 is provided.

The continuous seal 38 is detachably attached to the related information output unit 15b in a state where the pre-printing seal 9 shown in FIG. 3 is continuously wound, for example, in a roll shape.
The printer control unit 34 is connected to the bus 17 shown in FIG. 2, and is imaged by the imaging unit 18 in accordance with an instruction from the C-CPU 16, converted into image data by the image processing unit 21, and stored in the memory card 23. The link information / code conversion unit 35 is controlled to convert the link information for printing on the sticker attached to the ticket related to the image data to be converted into a barcode, and the barcode converted from the link information is converted into print data. Then, the data is transmitted to the printing unit 36, and the bar code 11 shown in FIG.

  Although not particularly shown, the seal feeding unit 37 includes a seal discharging device including a cutter device, a roller pair, a motor, a driving unit, a sheet position detection sensor, and the like, and the barcode 11 is printed as described above. The seal 9 is separated from the continuous seal 38, and the separated seal 9 is discharged to the outside from the seal discharge port 6 shown in FIG.

  The C-CPU 16 writes the link information converted into the barcode 11 in a predetermined data writing area of the image data stored in the memory card 23 via the image processing unit 21. Thereby, also in this case, the association between the photograph 2 and the ticket 1 is completed. That is, the ticket 1 as an entity and the photograph 2 are linked via the seal 9 and the link information of the barcode 11 printed on the seal 9.

  As described above, according to the camera 3 of the second embodiment, the barcode can be used to obtain the entity in a state where it can be attached to the entity such as a ticket, admission ticket stub, admission ticket, or catalog. Since the link information that associates the pictures of the scenery, people, and ornaments involved is output, the photographer attaches (sticks) the output from the camera (barcode sticker) to the entity at a later date. By simply reading the link information, image data can be easily retrieved from the entity.

  When an information medium with a large amount of information such as this bar code sticker is used, the image data file name may be included in the link information. Then, since the file name of the specific image data related to the entity can be known, it becomes easier to retrieve the corresponding image data from the entity. Further, if the shooting date and time is included in the link information, permanent management becomes possible.

  FIG. 5 illustrates an operation procedure from the shooting of a landscape, a person, a browsing object, a viewing object, and other things by the camera to stamping (or printing) a ticket obtained in connection with the shooting as Example 3. It is a figure to do. In the figure, steps S31 to S33 are the same as steps S1 to S3 in FIG.

  If the desired image data (photo 2) is displayed on the display screen 4 of the camera 3 in the preview in step S33, which is not shown in FIG. 5, first, in step S34, an appropriate blank portion of the ticket 1 is displayed. (Upper left corner in the figure) is placed below the printing part (not visible in the figure) at the lower left end of the camera 3 and the shutter button 5 is pressed. As a result, as shown in step S35, printing is performed on the ticket 1 by the printing unit of the camera 3.

  FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the related information output unit 15 (15c) of the camera 1 that prints link information directly on the ticket 1 by the printing unit in the third embodiment. In this figure, the camera body 14 shown in FIG. 4 is not shown.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the related information output unit 15 c in the camera 3 of this example includes a printer control unit 39 and a printing unit 41. The printing unit 41 includes, for example, an ink jet printer head and an ink tank, although not particularly shown. When the related information output unit 15c is configured to be smaller, a thermal print head and a transfer type (or sublimation type) ink ribbon may be provided.

  The printer control unit 39 is connected to the bus 17 shown in FIG. 2, and is imaged by the imaging unit 18 in accordance with an instruction from the C-CPU 16, converted into image data by the image processing unit 21, and stored in the memory card 23. The link information for directly printing on the ticket related to the image data to be printed is converted into print data, and the print data is controlled to be printed directly on the ticket 1 by the printing unit 41.

The C-CPU 16 writes the link information converted into the print data in a predetermined data writing area of the image data stored in the memory card 23 via the image processing unit 21.
Thereby, also in this case, the association between the photograph 2 and the ticket 1 is completed. That is, the ticket 1 and the photograph 2 as the entity on which the link information is printed are linked via the link information.

  In this way, according to the camera 3 of the third embodiment, the scenery related to the acquisition of the entity in a state that can be attached to the entity such as a ticket, admission ticket stub, admission ticket, or catalogs by printing. Since the link information that associates the image data of a photograph of a person, an ornament, etc. is output, the photographer attaches (prints) the output from the camera (printing ink) to the entity to print the number. The number 12 itself becomes link information, and image data can be easily retrieved from an entity simply by reading the link information at a later date.

  If the link information of the number print 12 is a serial number of about two digits, the printing device used for outputting the link information can be a simple printing device, and the overall configuration of the camera can be reduced in size. Can do.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram showing several examples of tickets attached with link information output by any of the cameras 3 according to the first to third embodiments. In the figure, the upper three examples show link information with visually readable display. A wireless tag is attached to a sticker in which numbers (No. 1) are printed in sequence from left to right. An example in which both the barcode and the number (No. 1) are printed and an example in which only the number (No. 1) is printed are shown.

  The middle two examples show link information with no visual readability display. From left to right, an example of sticking only a wireless tag and an example of sticking a barcode only Each is shown.

  The lower example shows an example in which a plurality of (three in the example of the figure) tag-attached stickers are attached to one ticket. This indicates that three photographs related to this ticket have been taken.

  FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the related information output unit 15 (15d) of the camera 1 that sequentially outputs labels on which link information is printed in advance in the fourth embodiment. In this figure, the camera body 14 shown in FIG. 4 is not shown. As shown in FIG. 8, the related information output unit 15 d of this example includes a feed control unit 42 and a label feed unit 43 and stores a continuous label 44.

  The continuous label 44 is detachably attached to the related information output unit 15d in a state where a plurality of labels 45 are continuously wound, for example, in a roll shape. No. It is printed in ascending order like 1, 2,.

  The label feeding unit 43 in this example is also provided with a seal discharging device which is not particularly shown, and includes a cutter device, a roller pair, a motor, a driving unit, a sheet position detection sensor and the like. The feed control unit 42 is connected to the bus 17 shown in FIG. 4, and controls the label feed unit 43 in accordance with an instruction from the C-CPU 16 to separate the label 45 from the continuous label 44, and to the outside of the camera body. Discharge.

  Each time the label 45 is discharged to the outside one by one, the C-CPU 16 determines a number written in advance on the label 45, for example, No. 1 is used as link information, and the image data of the related photograph for which the label 45 is to be output is written in a predetermined data writing area, and the image data is stored in the memory card 23.

Thereby, the ticket 1 to which the label 45 is attached and the image data 2 are linked via the link information of the label 45.
In this way, by outputting a sticker printed with serial numbers and symbols in advance as link information as an information medium, a printing apparatus is not required, and the cost of the camera is reduced.

  FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the related information output unit 15 (15e) of the camera 1 according to the fifth embodiment. In this figure, the camera body 14 shown in FIG. 4 is not shown. As shown in FIG. 9, the related information output unit 15e of this example includes a link information code conversion unit 46 and a printer control unit 47 connected to the bus 17 shown in FIG.

  A tag writer 48 having the same function as that of the tag writer 20 of the first embodiment is connected to the link information code conversion unit 46, and a printing unit 49 is connected to the printer control unit 47. An ink discharge unit 51 is connected to the printing unit 49, and ink 54 in which chip-like wireless tags 53 are mixed and dispersed is supplied from an ink tank 52 to the ink discharge unit 51.

  At the timing when communication is started from the tag writer 48 to the chip-shaped wireless tag 53 in the ink 54 supplied to the ink ejection unit 51 and link information is written to the chip-shaped wireless tag 53, the printing unit 49 inks the ink 54. Discharge from the discharge unit 51 toward the ticket 1.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example in which not only the ink 54 is simply ejected from the ink ejecting unit 51 but also characters, symbols, and other visually apparent link information are printed in the fifth embodiment. As shown in the figure, an English letter “A” is printed in the blank 1 a in the upper left part of the ticket 1 by the ink 54 including the chip-like wireless tag 53.

  As a result, when the photographer views the ticket 1, the photograph image data associated with the ticket 1 is managed with the code “A” or is the ticket at the first stop on the trip. You can easily know that.

As described above, since printing is performed directly on the entity in a form having both the tag and the print information, it can be visually confirmed without a detection sensor, and the information medium can be visually distinguished from each other, which is convenient.
In addition, since printing is directly performed on an entity, it is very convenient because it eliminates the labor of peeling the release paper of the seal and the labor of attaching the seal to the entity.

  In the present invention, as described above, the link information attached to the entity is written in the predetermined area of the image data related to the entity by the C-CPU 16, thereby completing the link between the entity and the image data. However, the data structure of the image data file in which the link information is written will be described here.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a data structure of an image data file recorded on the memory card 23. As shown in FIG. In the example shown in the figure, three types of files are stored in a folder 001TAMAB created in the root directory DCIM.

  An image data file is stored at the top of the file area. In the example shown in the figure, the image data file P701001. JPG, P701002. JPG, P7010003. JPG,... Are stored.

  In the middle of the file area, post-record audio data whose extension is indicated by WAV is stored. In the example shown in the figure, the audio data file P701001. WAV, P7010005. WAV,... Are stored. Audio data file P701001. WAV stores the image data file P701001. The audio data file P7010005. WAV stores the image data file P7010005. It corresponds to JPG.

  Further, behind the file area, a text data file as a comment or memorandum relating to an image is stored. In the example shown in the figure, the text data file P701001. TXT,... Are stored. Text data file P701001. TXT is an image data file P701001. It corresponds to JPG.

That is, audio data files, audio data files, and text data files correspond to each other with the same file name excluding the extension.
The image data file is provided with an accompanying data area 55 called a maker note. This supplementary data area 55 is an area that can be used arbitrarily by the camera manufacturer. In the camera 3 of this example, as shown in the figure, the link flag, link information, shooting date / time, shooting location, photographer, and genre are displayed. Each data area is provided.

  Here, in the link information data area, number data composed of serial numbers such as “1”, “2”, “3”,. This number data includes, for example, link information written on the tag 8 of the sticker 7 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, link information represented by the bar code 11 printed on the sticker 9 shown in FIGS. Or it is the link information represented by the number printing 12 shown in FIG.5 and FIG.6.

  Thus, for example, a ticket 1 with a sticker 7 with a tag 8 with link information “2” written thereon, and a ticket 9 with a sticker 9 printed with a bar code 11 representing link information “2” attached. 1, or the ticket 1 printed with the number print 12 of the link information “2” and the image data file P701002... In which the link information “2” is stored in the link information data area of the incidental data area 55. JPG is associated.

Further, for example, image data file P7010003. In which “0” is stored in the link information data area. JPG indicates that there is no entity associated with this photo.
In the link flag data area of the incidental data area 55, “1” is stored for all image data files in which link information is stored in the link information data area. As a result, it is possible to easily check whether the image data is related to the entity.

Up to this point, the entity has been typically replaced with a ticket. However, the relationship between various entities and image data will be further described below. For convenience of explanation, it is assumed that all link information attached to an entity is based on the tag 8 of the seal 7. FIG. 12 is a chart for further explaining the relationship between various entities and image data. In the figure, the correspondence relationship between the entity and the image data is shown in five types of relationship modes as an example. The first relationship mode is an example of “1 image, 1 tag, 1 entity”.

  In this case, for example, on the image data side, as shown in the image file name and link information column 56 on the memory card, “image data file P701001.JPG” of one image shown in the child column 56-1 is stored in the child column. Corresponding to the link information “NO.1” shown in FIG. 56-2, on the entity side, as shown in the column 57 of the link information recorded in the tag and the tag, the link information “NO.1” shown in the child column 57-2. One ticket shown in the child column 57-3 corresponds to one tag shown in the child column 57-1 having "1". This is an example in which one photograph and one entity are linked.

  The second relation mode is an example of “one image, plural tags, plural entities”. In this case, for example, on the image data side, as shown in the column 56, the “image data file P701002.JPG” of one image shown in the child column 56-1 is linked to the link information “NO.2” shown in the child column 56-2. ”On the entity side, as shown in the column 57, the three tags 1, 2 and 3 shown in the child column 57-1 each having the link information“ NO.2 ”shown in the child column 57-2. In addition, three types of entities, that is, one bag of disposable chopsticks, one coaster, and one receipt shown in the child column 57-3 correspond to each. In this way, one photograph can be associated with three entities. That is, it is possible to cope with a plurality of entities corresponding to one photograph.

The tag numbers (1, 2, 3,...) Are tag issue serial numbers and are not related to link information.
The third relation aspect is an example of “multiple images, one tag, one entity”. In this case, for example, on the image data side, as shown in the column 56, two images “image data file P7010004.JPG” and “image data file P7010005.JPG” shown in the child column 56-1 are stored in the child column 56-. 2 corresponds to the link information “NO.3” shown in FIG. 2, and on the entity side, as shown in the column 57, shown in the child column 57-1 having the link information “NO.3” shown in the child column 57-2. One tag shown in the child column 57-3 corresponds to one tag.

In this way, a plurality of photos (two in the example in the figure) can be associated with one entity.
In this case, one tag corresponding to a plurality of image data, that is, one sheet 7 is pasted on a pamphlet. Therefore, not only can the number of tags be saved, but it is also possible to cope with a small entity that cannot attach any number of tags.

  The fourth relationship mode is an example of “multiple images, multiple tags, one entity”. In this case, for example, on the image data side, as shown in the column 56, the two images “image data file P7010006.JPG” and “image data file P7010007.JPG” shown in the child column 56-1 are stored in the child column 56-. 2 corresponds to the link information “NO.4” and “NO.5” shown in FIG. On the entity side, as shown in the column 57, both of the two tags shown in the child column 57-1 having the link information “NO.4” and “NO.5” shown in the child column 57-2, respectively. Corresponds to one ticket shown in the child column 57-3.

  This is the image data file P7010007. This is a case where a photograph shown in JPG is taken, a sticker with a tag is attached to the ticket, and after the linking between the ticket and the image data is completed, another photograph related to the ticket is taken. In this way, it is possible to cope with a case where a photograph related to an entity is to be added later.

  The fifth relation aspect is an example of “multiple images, multiple tags, multiple entities”. In this case, for example, on the image data side, as shown in the column 56, two images “image data file P7010008.JPG” and “image data file P7010009.JPG” shown in the child column 56-1 are stored in the child column 56-. 2 corresponds to the link information “NO.6” shown in FIG. 2, and on the entity side, as shown in the column 57, the child column 57-1 has the link information “NO.6” shown in the child column 57-2. Of the two tags 1 and 2 shown, tag 1 corresponds to one ticket shown in the child column 57-3, and tag 2 corresponds to one pamphlet shown in the child column 57-3.

  This is the second and third combination described above, where a ticket and a pamphlet are obtained at the same place and two photographs relating to that place are taken. In this way, a plurality of tags corresponding to a plurality of images can be output.

  FIG. 13 shows the C-CPU 16 that issues the sticker 7 with the tag 8 as described above (or the sticker 9 on which the barcode 11 is printed, or a label on which a serial number is printed in advance, and so on). It is a main flowchart of the process performed.

In the figure, first, when the shooting mode is started, shooting is started (S01).
When the shooting is completed, it is determined whether or not there is an after-recording instruction (S02). This process is determined by the photographer displaying a menu selection screen with the menu key of the camera, for example, selecting the menu with the cross key, and determining the selection menu with the input determination key.

  If an after-recording instruction is given in this determination (S02 is Y), after the after-recording is recorded (S03), it is subsequently determined whether or not there is an instruction for text input (S04). If it is determined whether or not there is an after-recording instruction and there is no after-recording instruction (S02 is N), the process immediately proceeds to S04.

This process is also a process of making a determination based on a selection menu decision by the photographer using the menu key, the cross key, and the input decision key.
In this determination, if a text instruction is given (S04 is Y), the text is recorded (S05), and then it is determined whether there is a link instruction (S06). If it is determined whether or not there is a text instruction (S04 is N), the process immediately proceeds to S06.

  If there is a link instruction in this determination (S06: Y), first, information medium setting processing described later in detail is performed (S07), and then information medium output processing described later in detail is also performed. (S08).

  Thereafter, it is determined whether or not there is an instruction to end the link (S09). If the link end instruction is not issued (S09 is N), the process returns to the process S02 and the processes S02 to S09 are repeated.

  If there is an instruction to end the link (Y in S09), the processing related to this photographing is immediately ended. Further, even when there is no link instruction in the determination of the above-described processing S06 (S06 is N), the processing is immediately terminated.

  As described above, in the camera 3 of the present invention, every time a photograph is taken, the presence / absence of post-recording recording input and the presence / absence of text recording input are selected, and then the link instruction is selected. If there is no entity related to the photographed photograph, it is not necessary to instruct a link.However, if there are entities related to the photographed photograph, the information medium setting process and the information medium output process are performed for the number of entities. It is possible to easily associate a photograph taken with an entity.

  FIG. 14 is a sub-flowchart for explaining the information medium setting process in the process S07 in more detail. This information medium setting process corresponds to the detailed process in the first half of steps S3 and S4 of the first embodiment. In the figure, first, the C-CPU 16 determines whether or not there is a reset instruction for a link NO (link number) (S071).

  Usually, the photographer instructs to reset the link number when the first photograph is taken at the travel destination. As such, if there is a link NO reset instruction (Y in S071), the C-CPU 16 resets the link NO (S072). As a result, the link number as the link information is output sequentially from “No. 1”.

  The photographer does not give an instruction to reset the link number when he / she has taken several pictures after taking the first picture at the travel destination. Thus, when there is no link NO reset instruction (S071 is N), the C-CPU 16 immediately refers to the link image instruction (S073).

  This process refers to a process in which the photographer sequentially selects captured images with the cross key or the like, and the C-CPU 16 selects the sequentially instructed images based on the photographer's selection instruction with the cross key or the like. A link image (image to be linked to the entity) is displayed (S074).

  Subsequently, the number of output media that is the number of seals ejected with the same link number is designated. It is determined whether or not “1” is designated as the number of output media (S075). When the photographer inputs a numerical value of “2” or more, the designation of the number of output media is not “1” ( S075 is N). In this case, an instruction of the number of output media is received from the photographer (S076), and then a link OK button (in this example, the shutter as shown in FIGS. It is determined whether or not the button is pressed (S077).

  If the photographer has not input any numerical value in the determination of the above-described process S075, the designation of the number of output media remains “1” as the initial setting, and therefore “1” is set. (S075 is Y), and the process immediately proceeds to the determination of the process S077. When the link OK button has not been pressed (N in S077), the process returns to the process S073 to further select and display the link image, and the processes S073 to S077 are repeated. On the other hand, if the link OK button is pressed (Y in S077), the process immediately returns to the main flowchart.

  FIG. 15 is a sub-flowchart for explaining the information medium output process in the process S08 of the main flowchart in more detail. This information medium output process corresponds to the detailed process in the second half of the procedure S4 of the first embodiment. In the figure, first, the C-CPU 16 converts a link NO (number to be output serially) and a data file name of a link image to be linked to the link NO (for example, P701001.JPG) into communication data. (S081).

  Then, the communication data is transmitted (S082). In this process, in the case of FIG. 2, it is transmitted to the controller 21 of the tag writer 20, and in the case of FIG. 4, it is transmitted to the printer control unit 34.

  Subsequently, the C-CPU 16 performs reception confirmation (S083). This process is a process of receiving and confirming a return of the write data (link NO) from the tag 8 by the transmission / reception unit 32 of the tag writer 20 in the case of FIG. 2, and in the case of FIG. This is processing for receiving a write completion notification from the unit 34.

  Based on this reception confirmation, the C-CPU 16 then discharges the seal 7 or 9 (S084). In this process, the feed unit 31 is driven and controlled in the case of FIG. 2, and the seal feed unit 37 is controlled in the case of FIG. Then, the number of output media specified in S075 and S076 is sent.

  Subsequently, the C-CPU 16 records a link NO in the image file of the memory card 23 (S085). As a result, as shown in FIG. 11, the link NO is stored in the link information data area of the incidental data area 55 called a manufacturer note. In addition, the link flag of the image file is changed from “0” to “1”.

  As a result, the link information recorded on the tag 8 of the seal 7 or the link information recorded on the barcode 11 of the seal 9 is associated with the image data file having link information that matches the link information. The link between the entity to which the seal 7 or 9 is attached and the image data of the photograph taken at that time is completed. Here, the C-CPU 16 returns to the processing of the main flowchart.

  In the first to fifth embodiments, the sticker issuance process is performed after the photographed image is recorded in the memory. However, an instruction is given in advance before photographing, and simultaneously with the recording of the photographed image data. Related information may be recorded on the memory card.

  Moreover, although Example 1-5 demonstrated by the example which applied this invention to the camera, it is not restricted to this, It is not limited to this, but also to image equipment which remove | excluded the imaging | photography part and the audio processing part from the block diagram of FIG. Applicable. In this case, the image device includes a reading unit that reads an image from the memory card, a recording unit that records the related information in an image file of the memory card, and a related information output unit (15a to 15e) as described in the first to fifth embodiments. Have.

Next, a method for browsing image data related to the entity having link information as described above will be described.
FIG. 16 is a diagram schematically illustrating a specific display mode of image data performed based on an entity. This figure shows an album-integrated related image display device (hereinafter referred to as a viewer) 58.

  An album 59 is integrally attached to the viewer 58 on the left side of the spread 58-1, and the right side 58-2 is a viewer main body. The viewer main body occupies almost one surface, and the liquid crystal display device 61 is disposed on the lower left. A small speaker 62 is arranged.

  A bookmark type sensor 63 is connected to the viewer 58 by a connection cable 64 via a connector (not shown). Although a wired type bookmark sensor 63 is shown in the figure, a wireless type without a connection cable is also possible.

  A seal 7 (or 9) as an information medium attached to an entity such as a ticket 1 or a catalog 66 attached to each sheet (page) 65i (i = 1, 2,...) Of the album 59. ) Is read by the bookmark type sensor 63, and what kind of entity, that is, the link information is pasted on the sheet (number of pages) of the album 59 is registered in the viewer 58.

  When an arbitrary page of the album 59 is opened after the registration is completed, the registered link information possessed by the entity such as the ticket 1 and the catalog 65 pasted on the sheet 65i has the sheet number i as a key. The image data file linked to the detected link information is read out, and the image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 61.

  If there are a plurality of image data files related to the entity, those images, for example, the images 67 and 68 are displayed simultaneously. When there are a large number of image data files related to one entity, all the images are reduced or displayed as thumbnails or in a normal size according to the size of the liquid crystal display device 61 or the user's instruction. Now display intermittently (slide display).

If the display area of the liquid crystal display device 61 is sufficiently wide with respect to the display image, an image 69 or the like related to another different substantial part on the same sheet 65i may be displayed.
If the text is registered (for example, the text data file P701001.TXT for the image data file P701001.JPG in FIG. 11), the text 71 is displayed in the vicinity of the display image 67. If the post-recording is registered (for example, the audio data file P7010005.WAV for the image data file P7010005.JPG in FIG. 11), the post-recording is emitted from the speaker 62.

  FIG. 17 is a perspective view simply showing the configuration and usage of the bookmark type sensor 63 described above. The bookmark type sensor 63 has a thin rectangular shape and can be used as an “bookmark” of an album. As shown in the drawing, an optical imaging device comprising a lens 72 and a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) (not shown) is provided at the opposite longitudinal end of the bookmark type sensor 63 to which the connection cable 64 is connected. It is arranged.

  For example, the barcode 11 printed on the sticker 9 is read with the surface of the lens 72 of the bookmark sensor 63 facing the sticking portion of the sticker 9 of the ticket 1, and the link information can be acquired. Of course, the bookmark type sensor 63 may be configured by a tag reader that has a loop antenna or a receiving unit and detects information of the wireless tag, instead of the optical imaging device.

  FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a ring type sensor and a method for using the same. As shown in the figure, the ring sensor 73 is formed of a tag reader, and is used by being fitted to the tip of the index finger 74, for example. That is, the link information of the tag 8 attached to the seal 7 is read by simply bringing the tip of the index finger 74 fitted with the ring sensor 73 close to the sticking portion of the seal 7 of the ticket 1 and the obtained link. Information can be sent to the controller of the viewer 58. Of course, the ring type sensor 73 may be constituted by an optical imaging device having a lens and a CCD instead of a tag reader.

  FIG. 19 shows a cross-sectional view taken along the arrow A in FIG. 18, and a cross-sectional view taken along the line BB ′ of FIG. As shown in FIG. 19, the ring-type sensor 73 has a flexible substrate 77 housed in an inside 76 of a large-diameter and small-diameter double annular housing 75. The flexible substrate 77 has various devices made of chip-like electronic components. 78 and the power supply battery 79 are mounted, and a loop-shaped antenna 81 disposed at a portion corresponding to the belly of the fingertip is connected to one end thereof.

  The ring type sensor 73 is an electromagnetic induction type sensor, communicates with the tag 8 attached to the ticket 1 or the like via the antenna 81, and links information recorded in the tag 8 (child column 57 in FIG. 12). -2) and read the link information to the viewer 58.

  FIG. 20 is a block diagram showing the configuration of each part of the album-integrated viewer 58 described above. As shown in the figure, the viewer 58 is integrated with the album 59, and the proximity sensor reading unit 82 on the album 59 side and the B-CPU 83 on the viewer 58 side are connected by wiring.

  The B-CPU 83 is connected to a receiving unit 85, an audio processing unit 86, an image display unit 87, a memory card 88, an image processing unit 89, and a memory 91 via a bus 84. Further, the B-CPU 83 is directly connected to a main body operation unit 92 having an open / close switch 90 and a power supply unit 93, and the audio processing unit 86 is connected to an audio output unit 94. The audio output unit 94 includes the speaker 62 shown in FIG. The image display unit 87 includes the liquid crystal display device 61 shown in FIG.

  The memory card 88 may be a memory card with the memory card 23 of the camera 3 mounted as it is, or a memory card obtained by copying an image data file with a personal computer.

  On the other hand, when binding each sheet 65i of the album 59 at the lower part of the spread, when the album 59 is closed, the album 59 is opened at a position where it can be read by the proximity sensor reading unit 82. In some cases, proximity sensors 95 attached in pairs so as to be separated horizontally are arranged. By detecting the number of the proximity sensor 95 in the opened state, it is possible to determine which number of the sheet is currently opened.

  FIG. 21 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration of the bookmark type sensor 63 (wireless type) described above. In the figure, an antenna 96 is shown in place of the connection cable 64 as means for communicating with the viewer 58. As shown in FIG. 21, for example, the bookmark sensor 63 captures image light incident on the lens 72 from the barcode 11 of the sheet 9 shown in FIG. 98, the link information represented by the barcode is analyzed, the link information thus analyzed is converted into a transmission code by the transmission code conversion unit 99, and the converted transmission code is transmitted to the transmission unit 101. Transmits to the viewer 58 via the antenna 96.

  As described above, when the target information medium to be read by the sensor is the sticker 9 on which the barcode 11 is printed, the label 45 on which the serial number is printed in advance, or the ticket 1 on which the serial number is directly printed on, the link information is detected. The system is an optical system. In this case, it may be wireless or wired.

  FIG. 22 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration of the ring-type sensor 73 described above. As shown in the figure, the ring sensor 73 receives a signal indicating link information input from the tag 8 shown in FIG. 19 via the antenna 81 by the receiving unit 102, and amplifies the signal by the amplifying unit 103. The amplified signal is analyzed by the reading unit 104 to read the link information, the transmission link conversion unit 105 converts the read link information into a transmission code, and the transmission unit 106 transmits the antenna 81 to the converted transmission code. To the viewer 58.

FIG. 23 is a main flowchart showing processing in the viewer 58 integrated with the album.
First, when the process is started, the B-CPU 83 shown in FIG. 20 determines whether or not the viewer 58 has been opened (S101), and waits until the viewer 58 is opened (N in S101). In this process, the open / close switch 90 shown in FIG. 16 is turned on / off in response to the opening / closing of the viewer 58. The B-CPU 83 waits until it is received via the unit 92.

When the viewer 58 is opened (Y in S101), the power supply unit 93 is turned on (S102).
Subsequently, the B-CPU 83 determines whether or not the registration mode is set (S103). In this process, it is determined whether the operation key input by the user via the main body operation unit 92 is a registration mode key or a display mode key. The registration mode is a mode in which the ticket link information attached to each sheet of the album 59 is registered in the memory 9 in association with the sheet number i. The display mode is a mode in which an image corresponding to the spread sheet number i is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 61 based on the registered information.

  When the registration mode key is input (S103: Y), a registration process described later in detail is performed (S104), and then it is determined whether the viewer 58 is closed (S106). This process is a process for determining whether a signal input from the open / close switch 90 via the main body operation unit 92 has changed from on to off.

  If the viewer 58 is not closed (N in S106), the process returns to the above-described process S103, and the processes S103 to S106 are repeated. On the other hand, when the viewer 58 is closed (Y in S106), the power supply from the power supply unit 93 is cut off (S107), and the process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if the operation key input by the user is not a registration mode key, that is, if it is a display mode key (N in S103) in the determination in the above processing S103, display processing is performed in this case (S105). The process S106 is determined, and while the viewer 58 is open, the processes S103, S105, and S106 are repeated to continue the display process. When the viewer 58 is closed, the display process is terminated.

  FIG. 24 is a sub-flowchart for explaining the registration process in the process S104 in more detail. In the figure, first, the B-CPU 83 reads the number i of the spread sheet 65i of the viewer 58 (S1041).

  In this process, the B-CPU 83 separates only the pair of proximity sensors 95 of the spread page among the proximity sensors 95 attached in a pair when binding the lower part of each sheet 65i of the album 59. Therefore, the proximity sensor reader 82 reads the signal returned from the proximity sensor 95 by the induced radio wave, thereby recognizing the opened page of the album 59, that is, the number i of the sheet 65i.

  Next, the B-CPU 83 detects information (S1042). In this process, first, link information is read from an entity attached to the sheet 65 i by the ring sensor 73 (see FIGS. 18 and 22), and the read link information is transferred from the ring sensor 73. This is a process of receiving the signal by driving the receiving unit 85 (hereinafter, the same applies to the bookmark sensor 63 shown in FIGS. 16 and 17 except that there is a difference between wireless and wired).

  Then, the detected (received) link information is stored (S1043). This process is a process of storing the link information in a predetermined storage area of the memory 91 in association with the number i of the sheet 65i.

  Next, it is determined whether or not a change has occurred in the opened sheet (S1044). This process is a process for determining whether or not there is a change in the sheet number i represented by the read signal input from the proximity sensor reading unit 82.

  If there is no change in the sheet (N in S1044), the process returns to the process S1041, and the processes S1041 to S1044 are repeated. As a result, all the link information attached to the entity attached on the same sheet is read, associated with the sheet number i, and stored in the memory 91.

  If there is a change in the sheet (S1044 is Y), it is determined whether a registration processing end instruction is input from the user to the main body operation unit 92 (S1045). If there is no end instruction (S1045 is N). Returning to the process S1041, the processes S1041 to S1045 are repeated. Thereby, unregistered link information can be registered for each sheet.

When the end instruction is input (S1045 is Y), the registration process is ended.
FIG. 25 is a sub-flowchart for explaining the display process in the process S105 of the main flowchart in more detail. In the figure, first, the B-CPU 83 reads the number i of the spread sheet 65i of the viewer 58 (S1051). This process is the same as the process of process S1041 in the registration process.

  Subsequently, related information corresponding to the sheet number is read from the memory (S1052). This process is a process of retrieving the number i of the currently opened sheet 65i from the registration data stored in the memory 91 and reading the link information stored in association with the detected number i.

  Then, an image corresponding to the sheet is specified based on the read related information (link information) (S1053). This process is a process of confirming the link information stored in association with the number i of the sheet 65i.

  Then, the specified image is read from the memory card 88 (S1054). In this process, an image data file (see the link information in FIG. 11 or the image file name and link information column 56 on the memory card in FIG. 12) having link information that matches the confirmed link information is read from the memory card 88. It is a process to detect.

  Then, the image of the detected image data file is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 61 via the image display unit 87 (S1055). In this process, when there are a plurality of specified images, a plurality of images are displayed as shown in FIG. Then, the process returns to the main flowchart.

  FIG. 26 is an external perspective view of a general-purpose album (substance scrapbook), a general-purpose viewer, and an entity sensor in the seventh embodiment. The viewer 107 shown in the figure is not an album-integrated viewer as shown in FIG. 16, but a general-purpose viewer separate from the album. The viewer 107 shown in FIG. 26 is also turned on when the display is opened and turned off when the display is closed. The viewer 107 is also provided with a display screen 61 made up of a liquid crystal display device on the left side of the spread as in the case of the viewer 58 of FIG.

  The other general-purpose album 108 is an ordinary scrapbook for attaching and storing an entity. That is, an entity such as the above-described ticket 1 or catalog 66 is pasted on each page. In these tickets 1 and catalogs 66, for example, a seal 7 with a tag 8 output from the camera 3 is attached to an appropriate margin.

  The bookmark type sensor 109 as the entity sensor receives the link information signal 111 sent back by transmitting the induced radio wave to the ticket 1 or the tag 8 of the catalog 66, and receives the received link information signal 111. It is a wireless type that transmits to the viewer 107.

  The internal circuit configuration of the bookmark sensor 109 is the same as the circuit configuration shown in FIG. In other words, as a sensor that receives a reply from the tag 8 of the ticket 66 of the catalog 66 or an entity such as the catalog 66, such a bookmark type sensor 109 also has a ring type sensor 73 as shown in FIGS. Either is fine. Needless to say, the sensor part may be a wireless part composed of an induced radio wave emitting part and a receiving part, and the transmission part to the viewer 107 may be a wired type that communicates by wire.

  Further, when the sticker of the entity such as the ticket 1 or the catalog 66 is the seal 9 with the barcode 11 as shown in FIG. 3, or when the link information is directly printed on the entity as shown in FIG. Needless to say, an optical sensor having the configuration of FIG. 21 is used instead of the tag sensor.

  FIG. 27 is a block diagram of the configuration of the general-purpose viewer 107. In the figure, the same components as those of the viewer 58 in FIG. 20 are given the same reference numerals as in FIG. The viewer 107 shown in FIG. 27 is configured by removing the memory 91 from the viewer 58 shown in FIG. The other configuration is the same as that of the viewer 58 shown in FIG.

  In other words, in the system using the general-purpose album as the viewer 107 and the entity scrapbook of this example, it is not necessary to register in the viewer 107 correspondence information indicating the correspondence between the album page and the entity link information in advance. Therefore, the memory 91 is omitted.

  As the sensor 112, when the link information of the entity is based on a wireless tag, the bookmark sensor 109 with the wireless tag reader shown in FIG. 26 or the ring type denser 73 as shown in FIGS. When the object link information is based on a bar code, a direct print number, or the like, an optical sensor is used.

In either case, the sensor type is wireless in the case of a ring type sensor, and either wireless or wired in the case of a bookmark type sensor.
In FIG. 27, the entity 113 that is pasted and stored on each page of the album 108 is a travel memorabilia such as a ticket 1, a catalog 66, a disposable chopstick case, and a developed service match, as described above. It is.

  The information medium 114 attached to these entities 113 is a tag-attached sticker, barcode printing sticker, existing number printing label, and direct printing ink, and is returned from the tag included in the information medium 114. Alternatively, the information represented by a bar code, represented by an existing number, or represented by direct printing is the link information shown in FIG. 11 linked to the image data file stored in the memory card 88.

  FIG. 28 is a flowchart of display processing by the B-CPU 83 of the viewer in the system including the general-purpose album, the general-purpose viewer, and the entity sensor in the seventh embodiment. In the figure, first, when the processing is started, the B-CPU 83 shown in FIG. 27 determines whether or not the viewer 107 is opened (S201), and waits until it is opened (N in S201).

  In this process, the open / close switch 90 shown in FIG. 27 is turned on / off in response to the opening / closing of the viewer 107, so that the B-CPU 83 keeps receiving the change from the off signal to the on signal via the main body operation unit 92. stand by.

When the viewer 58 is opened (Y in S201), the power supply unit 93 is turned on (S202).
Subsequently, the B-CPU 83 detects related information transmitted from the sensor 112 and received by the receiving unit 85 (S203). This process is a process of recognizing link information by analyzing the link information signal 111 (see FIG. 26) input from the sensor 112 of FIG.

  Then, all the images specified by the related information are searched from the memory card (S204). In this process, all the image data files having the link information identified in the related information, that is, the link information matching the related information (link information) acquired by the sensor 112 in the incidental data area 55 shown in FIG. This is a search process.

  Following the above, the B-CPU 83 reads a specific image from the memory card (S205). This process is a process of reading all the image data files detected by the above search to the image processing unit 89.

  Then, the B-CPU 83 displays an image based on the read image data file (S206). In this process, when there are a plurality of images specified (read by matching the link information), a plurality of images are displayed on the liquid crystal display device 61.

  Subsequently, the B-CPU 83 determines whether or not the album 108 is closed (S207). This process is a process for determining whether a signal input from the open / close switch 90 via the main body operation unit 92 has changed from on to off.

  If the viewer 58 is not closed (N in S207), the process returns to the above-described process S203 and repeats the processes S203 to S207. On the other hand, when the viewer 107 is closed (Y in S207), the power supply from the power supply unit 93 is cut off (S208), and the process is terminated.

  FIG. 29 is a diagram illustrating a tag information reading method according to the eighth embodiment. As shown in the figure, in Example 8, a human body is used as a conductor. In other words, the operator of the album and the viewer touches one hand, which is not shown, on a dedicated contact provided on the viewer that is not shown, and the fingertip of the other hand 74 is attached to the seal 7. The IC tag 8 is brought into contact. In this state, by passing a weak current from the contact point of the viewer, a current flows to the IC tag 8 through the human body.

  Upon receiving this current, the IC tag 8 side performs modulation based on the link information data, and the modulated signal returns to the viewer. By demodulating this modulated signal on the viewer side, link information data of the IC tag is obtained on the viewer side.

  In this way, if the link information is attached to the “thing” obtained at the travel destination, if the “thing” obtained at the travel destination is obtained using a display device that reads the link information of the “thing”, the link The photographed image is automatically displayed, so the pleasure of viewing the photographed image is doubled.

  In the description of the viewer as the image reproducing device, the memory device for the image data file is exclusively used as the memory device of the camera. However, the present invention is not limited to this. In addition, it may be a recording medium such as a CD-R, CD-R / W, DVD, or other type of memory device.

  In addition, since the entity is one that increases with the photo, it is of course possible in the case of a general-purpose viewer for different albums, but even in the case of an album-integrated viewer, the album can be freely attached and removed. It is preferable to be able to use the album. In this case, a disc storage bag is provided on the back cover of each album to store recording media such as CD-R, CD-R / W, and DVD as memory devices and store them together with the album. It is good to. The viewer is provided with a connector for a drive device such as a CD-R, CD-R / W, or DVD instead of the memory card connector. Of course, you may make it incorporate a drive device.

  The reason why the recording medium stored together with the above album is a disk type such as CD-R, CD-R / W, DVD, etc. is because it is easy to obtain at a relatively low price, and the recording medium is a disk type. It is not limited.

It is a figure explaining the operation procedure from sticking a radio tag (or contact tag) to the ticket acquired in connection with the photography from photography with the camera in Example 1. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a camera that discharges a sticker to which a wireless tag is attached in Embodiment 1. FIG. It is a figure explaining the operation procedure from sticking to the ticket acquired in connection with the photography from photography with the camera in Example 2. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the relevant information output part of the camera which discharges | emits a barcode sticker in Example 2. FIG. It is a figure explaining the operation procedure until it stamps (or prints) on the ticket acquired in connection with the imaging | photography by the camera in Example 3. FIG. FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a related information output unit of a camera that prints or stamps a ticket in the third embodiment. It is a figure which shows several examples of the ticket which attached the link information output by the camera in any one of Examples 1-3. FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a related information output unit of a camera that sequentially outputs labels on which link information is printed in advance in Example 4. FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a related information output unit of a camera in Example 5. In Example 5, it is a figure which shows the example which prints the link information which can understand character, a symbol, and other appearances with an ink. It is a figure which shows the data structure of the image data file recorded on a memory card. It is a chart further explaining the relationship between various entities and image data. It is a main flowchart of the process performed by C-CPU which issues a sticker with a tag, a bar code sticker, or a label with serial number printing. It is a sub-flowchart explaining the information medium setting process of a main flowchart in more detail. It is a sub-flowchart explaining the information medium output process of a main flowchart in more detail. It is a figure which shows typically the display mode of the specific image data performed based on the entity in Example 6. FIG. It is a perspective view which shows simply the structure and usage method of the bookmark type sensor connected to the viewer in Example 6. FIG. It is a figure explaining the ring type sensor used for the viewer in Example 6, and its usage method. It is a figure which shows the A arrow sectional drawing of the ring type sensor shown in FIG. 18 above, and shows the BB 'sectional arrow sectional view below. FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of each part of an album-integrated viewer according to a sixth embodiment. FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration of a bookmark sensor in Example 6. FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration of a ring type sensor in Example 6. It is a main flowchart which shows the process in the viewer integrated with the album in Example 6. FIG. 14 is a sub-flowchart for explaining the registration process of the main flowchart in Example 6 in more detail. FIG. 20 is a sub-flowchart for explaining the display process of the main flowchart in the sixth embodiment in more detail. FIG. 17 is an external perspective view of a general-purpose album (substance scrapbook), a general-purpose viewer, and an entity sensor in Embodiment 7. FIG. 10 is a configuration block diagram of a viewer in the seventh embodiment. It is a flowchart of the display process by B-CPU of the viewer in the system which consists of the general purpose album in Example 7, a general purpose viewer, and the substance sensor. It is a figure which shows the method of tag information reading in Example 8. FIG.

Explanation of symbols

1 Ticket 1a Margin 2 Photo (image data)
3 Camera 4 Display screen 5 Shutter button 6 Sticker discharge port 7 Sticker 7-1 Sticker body 7-2 Mount (release paper)
8 Wireless tags (or contact tags)
9 Seal 9-1 Seal body 9-2 Mount (release paper)
11 Bar code 12 Number printing 14 Camera body 15 (15a, 15b, 15c, 15d, 15e) Related information output unit 16 CPU
17
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 18 Image pick-up part 19 Audio | voice processing part 20 Tag writer 21 Controller 21 Image processing part 22 Image display part 23 Memory card 24 Main body operation part 25 Audio | voice output part 26 Speaker connection terminal 27 Imaging element 28 Lens 29 Continuous sticker 31 Sending part 32 Transmission / reception part 33 Antenna 34 Print control section 35 Link information / code conversion section 36 Printing section 37 Seal feeding section 38 Continuous seal 39 Printer control section 41 Printing section 42 Feed control section 43 Label feeding section 44 Continuous label 45 Label 46 Link information code conversion section 47 Printer control Section 48 Tag writer 49 Printing section 51 Ink ejection section 52 Ink tank 53 Chip wireless tag 54 Ink 55 Additional data area 56 Image file name and link information fields on the memory card 56-1, 56-2 Child fields 57 Tags and tags Column 57-1,57-2,57-3 child field 58 associated image display device of the link information recorded in (viewer)
58-1 spread left side 58-2 double spread right side 59 album 61 liquid crystal display device 62 speaker 63 bookmark type sensor 64 connection cable 65i (i = 1, 2,...) Album sheet (page)
66 Catalog 67, 68, 69 Image 71 Text 72 Lens 73 Ring sensor 74 Index finger 75 Housing 76 Inside 77 Flexible substrate 78 Device 79 Power supply battery 81 Antenna 82 Proximity sensor reader 83 B-CPU
84 Bus 85 Receiving unit 86 Audio processing unit 87 Image display unit 88 Memory card 89 Image processing unit 90 Open / close switch 91 Memory 92 Main unit operation unit 93 Power supply unit 94 Audio output unit 95 Proximity sensor 96 Antenna 97 Imaging unit (CCD)
98 Reading unit 99 Transmission code conversion unit 101 Transmission unit 102 Reception unit 103 Amplification unit 104 Reading unit 105 Transmission code conversion unit 106 Transmission unit 107 Viewer 108 Album (substance scrapbook)
109 Bookmark type sensor 111 Link information signal 112 Sensor

Claims (12)

Imaging means for electronically capturing an image as image data;
Recording means for recording image data of an image taken by the imaging means on a recording medium;
And an relationship information output means for outputting information for keeping related after taking the captured image and the real object relating to the image,
The relation information output means includes an information medium having relation information for associating specific image data in the image data recorded by the recording means with an entity related to the specific image data. Output in a manner that can be attached to an object,
Corresponding to the relation information output by the relation information output means, the recording means stores link information indicating a relation between the entity and specific image data recorded on the recording medium on the recording medium. Record,
A camera characterized by that.   The camera according to claim 1, wherein the relation information includes a file name of the image data specified by the relation information.   The camera according to claim 1, wherein the relation information includes a readable identification symbol of the information medium.   The camera according to claim 1, wherein the relation information output means outputs the information medium in a state having a wireless tag in which the relation information is recorded. The camera according to claim 4 , wherein the information medium includes a sticker that can be attached to the entity and the wireless tag attached to the sticker. 5. The camera according to claim 4 , wherein the information medium comprises a mixture of a liquid that can be applied to the entity by the relation information output means and the wireless tag. The camera according to claim 6 , wherein the liquid is ink that is readable and printed on the entity by the relation information output unit.   The camera according to claim 1, wherein the information medium is a print medium on which a barcode converted from the related information is printed.   2. The camera according to claim 1, wherein the information medium is a barcode converted from the related information directly printed on the entity by the related information output means.   The camera according to claim 1, wherein the information medium is a print medium on which specific information is printed in advance.   2. The camera according to claim 1, further comprising display means for displaying an image of the specific image data related to the information medium. An image device that outputs relationship information for associating a captured image recorded on a recording medium with an entity corresponding to the image,
Reading means for reading image data from the recording medium;
An information medium having relation information for associating specific image data in the image data recorded on the recording medium with an entity related to the specific image data in an aspect that can be attached to the entity. Relation information output means for outputting;
Corresponding to the relation information output by the relation information output means, recording means for recording link information indicating a relation between the entity and specific image data recorded on the recording medium on the recording medium; With
An imaging device characterized by that.