JP4621396B2 - Image printing apparatus and method, print medium unit, and program - Google Patents

Description

【０１０２】
ただし、（x_New、y_New）は、回転処理後の装飾画像７４の各画素の座標を示しており、一方、（ｘ、ｙ）は、回転処理前の装飾画像７４の各画素の座標を示している。また、thは回転角度［Radian］を示している。
【０１０３】
なお、設定される回転角度は限定されないが、例えば、９０［度］の倍数に設定されるとよい。その場合（thとして、９０[度]（π/2［Radian］）の倍数に設定された場合）、上式（１）の変換行列の各要素は、１、０、または−１のいずれかの値になり、その回転処理に係る演算量を減少させることができる。即ち、CPU３１の処理能力を必要以上に高くする必要がなくなり、製造者は、画像処理装置１の主制御装置１９のコストを削減することができる（処理能力の低いCPU３１が搭載された主制御装置１９を採用することができる）。
【０１０４】
さらに、この例では、「装飾ID 1」の装飾パターン61-1により、「カラー」、および透明度「３０％」（透明度０％は、不透明（下地が透けない）とされるものとする）が規定されているので、装飾画像７４は、透明度３０％のカラー画像に加工される。
【０１０５】
ステップＳ１６において、CPU３１は、CCDカメラ１４によりモニタされているモニタ画像を1枚取得し、取得されたモニタ画像からユーザの画像を抽出し、抽出されたユーザの画像と予め用意されている下地画像とを合成して第１の合成画像を生成する。
【０１０６】
また、CPU３１は、抽出されたユーザの画像の輪郭を検出し、検出されたユーザの画像の輪郭上の所定の位置に、ステップＳ１３の処理で設定されるとともに、ステップＳ１５の処理で加工された装飾画像を配置し、配置された装飾画像と、第１の合成画像とを合成して、第２の合成画像を生成し、それを表示装置１５（表示部位２０）に表示させる。
【０１０７】
即ち、CPU３１は、ステップS１６において、ユーザの画像の輪郭（例えば、手や肩等）に例えばパンダや小鳥等の装飾画像が貼り付けられた個性に富む画像（第２の合成画像）を生成し、表示装置１５（表示部位２０）表示させることができる。
【０１０８】
このステップＳ１６における処理を、ここでは、「合成画像生成処理・表示処理」と称する。この例の「合成画像生成処理・表示処理」の詳細が、図４に示されている。そこで、この例の「合成画像生成処理・表示処理」を、図４を参照して説明する。
【０１０９】
即ち、ステップＳ３１において、CPU３１は、内蔵するタイマ３１ａにより計時された時刻を取得し、取得された時刻に基づいて、予め設定されている所定のサンプリングタイムの時間が経過したか否かを判定する。
【０１１０】
ステップＳ３１において、所定のサンプリングタイムの時間が経過していないと判定された場合、ステップＳ３１に戻り、CPU３１は、再度、所定のサンプリングタイムの時間が経過したか否かを判定する。即ち、CPU３１は、所定のサンプリングタイムの時間が経過するまで、その処理を待機する。
【０１１１】
ステップＳ３１において、所定のサンプリングタイムの時間が経過したと判定された場合、ステップＳ３２において、CPU３１は、CCDカメラ１４によりモニタされている撮影範囲内のモニタ画像を１枚取得し、RAM３３に記憶させる。
【０１１２】
ステップＳ３３において、CPU３１は、取得されたモニタ画像のうち、ユーザの画像を抽出する。この抽出方法は限定されないが、この例においては、例えば、以下のような方法でユーザの画像を抽出するものとする。
【０１１３】
即ち、例えば、幕１１の色が青色であったとすると、取得されたモニタ画像のうち、ユーザの画像以外の部分（以下、背景部分と称する）の画像は、ほぼ青色の無地の画像となっている。そこで、CPU３１は、取得されたモニタ画像の各画素データ毎に、青色成分が所定のレベル以上含まれているか否かを判定し、含まれていると判定した場合、その画素は背景部分であると認定し、一方、含まれていないと判定した場合、その画素はユーザ部分であると認定する。
【０１１４】
ステップＳ３４において、CPU３１は、このようにして抽出されたユーザの画像と、予め設定されている下地画像とを合成して、第１の合成画像を生成する。
【０１１５】
この例においては、下地画像は、図３のステップＳ１３の処理で設定された装飾様式、即ち、装飾様式テーブル６１に規定されており、これに規定されている画像が下地画像として採用される。具体的には、「装飾ID １」の装飾パターン61-1が設定されているので、これに規定されている下地画像「Fyab001.BMP」が使用される。
【０１１６】
従って、CPU３１は、図６に示されるように、下地画像（Fyab001.BMP）７２とユーザ画像７１とを合成して、第１の合成画像７３を生成する。
【０１１７】
ステップＳ３５において、ステップＳ３３の処理で抽出されたユーザの画像と背景部分の画像との境界、即ち、ユーザの画像の輪郭を検出する。
【０１１８】
なお、ユーザの画像の輪郭を検出する場合に基になる画像として、下地画像７２が合成される前のユーザ画像７１、または第１の合成画像７３のうち、いずれの画像が使用されてもよいが、この例においては、第１の合成画像が使用されるものとする。
【０１１９】
また、検出方法は限定されないが、この例においては、例えば、CPU３１は、輪郭を検出する基準となる検出座標enを複数個設定し、この検出座標enに基づいて、背景部分からユーザ部分に変わる点（以下、輪郭点anと称する）を検出するものとする。
【０１２０】
さらに、この例においては、1点は1画素に相当するものとされる。即ち、画像の左上端を原点（０，０）とした場合、座標（ｘ、ｙ）とは、画像の左上端（原点）から、右方向（以下、ｘ方向と称する）にｘドット、および下方向（以下、ｙ方向と称する）にｙドットだけ離れた位置にある画素の座標とされる。
【０１２１】
具体的には、図６に示されるように、CPU３１は、図３のステップＳ１３の処理で設定された装飾様式、即ち、「装飾ID １」の装飾パターン61-1に規定されている始点座標（１０，０）を、最初（１番目）の検出座標e1として設定し、この１番目の検出座標e1から、「装飾ID １」の装飾パターン61-1に規定されている移動方向（ｘ方向）に移動ステップ（100ドット）だけ移動させた座標(110,0)を、次（２番目）の検出座標e2として設定する。３番目以降の検出座標enは、２番目の検出座標e2と同様な方法で設定される。
【０１２２】
即ち、n番目の検出座標enは、n-1番目の座標en-1を、「装飾ID １」の装飾パターン61-1に規定されている移動方向（ｘ方向）に移動ステップ（100ドット）だけ移動させた座標となる。
【０１２３】
従って、１番目の検出座標e１は、始点座標（１０、０）に、２番目の検出座標e2は、座標（１１０、０）に、３番目の検出座標e3は、座標（２１０、０）に、4番目の検出座標e4は、座標（３１０、０）に、また５番目の検出座標e5は、座標（４１０、０）に、それぞれ設定される。
【０１２４】
次に、CPU３１は、設定された検出座標e1乃至e5の順番で検出の対象となる検出座標ek（kは、１乃５のうちいずれかの値）を更新し、更新された検出座標ekから、ｙ方向（移動方向（ｘ方向）に対して垂直方向）に画素を走査し、背景部分の画素からユーザ部分の画素に変わる画素を検出し、この画素を輪郭点akとしてRAM３３に記憶させる。
【０１２５】
即ち、CPU３１は、検出座標ekを、前回の検出座標ek-1から移動方向（x方向）に移動距離（100ドット）だけ移動させながら、それぞれの検出座標ekに対応するユーザの画像の輪郭点akを検出していく。
【０１２６】
具体的には、図６に示されるように、ユーザの画像の輪郭として、輪郭点a1（１０、ｙ１）、輪郭点a2（１１０、ｙ２）、輪郭点a3（２１０、ｙ３）、輪郭点a4（３１０、ｙ４）、および輪郭点a5（４１０、ｙ５）がそれぞれ検出される。
【０１２７】
なお、この例においては、ユーザの画像の輪郭が検出される場合、第１の合成画像７３が基にされたが、上述したように、下地画像７２が合成される前のユーザ画像（第１の合成画像７３と同一サイズの画像）６１が基にされてもよい。その場合、基になるユーザ画像７１のうち、ユーザ以外の部分、即ち、背景部分の画像は黒色の無地の画像であるので、CPU31は、より簡単にユーザの画像の輪郭を検出することができる。即ち、CPU３１は、黒の画素（R、G、およびB成分とも０である画素）から、ユーザの部分の画素（黒でない画素）に変化する点（画素）を検出すればよい。
【０１２８】
ステップＳ３６において、図３のステップＳ１３の処理で設定されるとともに、かつステップＳ１５の処理で加工された装飾画像、即ち加工された装飾画像７４を配置させる場合に基準となる配置座標を演算する。
【０１２９】
この演算方法は限定されないが、例えば、ステップＳ３５の処理で検出された輪郭点a1乃至a５のうち、所定の1点を配置座標として選択して、その座標を演算する（ただし、この例においては、既に輪郭点a1乃至a５は演算されているので、単に選択するだけでよい）。
【０１３０】
なお、この例においては、配置座標の初期設定は輪郭点a1とされ、その後、このステップＳ３６の処理が行われる毎（合成画像生成・表示処理が行われる毎）に、選択される配置座標として、前回選択された輪郭点an-1の次の輪郭点anが選択される。
【０１３１】
ステップＳ３７において、CPU３１は、装飾画像７４を、第1の合成画像７３の配置座標に対応する位置に配置する。
【０１３２】
例えば、配置座標として輪郭点a1（１０、y1）が選択されている場合、図７に示されるように、装飾画像７４は、その左上端の点b1のｘ座標が配置座標（輪郭点a1）のx座標（10）に一致するとともに、その右下端の点b2のｙ座標が配置座標（輪郭点a1）のｙ座標（y1）に一致するように、第１の合成画像７３の上に配置される。
【０１３３】
即ち、装飾画像７４のサイズは、高さが50ドットであり、また幅が40ドットであるので、装飾画像７４は、点b1の座標が（10、y1-50）となり、また点b2の座標が（50（10+40）、y1）となるように、第1の合成画像７３の上に配置される。
【０１３４】
ステップＳ３８において、CPU３１は、配置された装飾画像７４と第１の合成画像７３とを合成して、図７に示されるような第２の合成画像７５（ただし、装飾画像７４は、ステップ３７の処理で配置された位置にある１つの画像のみ）を生成し、RAM３３に記憶させ、ステップＳ３９において、それを表示装置１５（表示部位２０）に表示させる。
【０１３５】
図３に戻り、ステップＳ１７において、CPU３１は、印刷画像（プリンタ１８に印刷させる画像）の確定指示があったか否かを判定する。
【０１３６】
例えば、この例においては、上述した図４のステップＳ３９において、CPU３１は、第２の合成画像７５を表示装置１５（表示部位２０）に表示させるとともに、印刷画像の確定指示をユーザに促す旨のメッセージ（例えば、「OKボタンを押すと、撮影を開始するよ」といったメッセージ）を表示させる。
【０１３７】
そこで、ユーザがこのメッセージに従って入力部１６を操作し、これにより、印刷画像の確定指示に対応する信号が、CPU３１に入力された場合（例えば、ユーザによりOKボタン16aが押下された場合）、CPU３１は、印刷画像の確定指示があったと判定し、一方、それ以外の場合、印刷画像の確定指示がないと判定する。
【０１３８】
ステップＳ１７において、印刷画像の確定指示がないと判定された場合、ステップＳ１６に戻り、それ以降の処理を繰り返す。
【０１３９】
即ち、ステップＳ１７において、印刷画像の確定指示があったと判定されるまで（ユーザによりOKボタン16aが押下されるまで）、ステップＳ１６の処理（合成画像生成・表示処理）を繰り返す。
【０１４０】
具体的には、CPU３１は、所定のサンプリング毎に、CCDカメラ１４によりモニタされているユーザの画像を1枚取得し、取得されたユーザの画像に基づいて新たな第1の合成画像７３を生成し、また、装飾画像７４の配置座標を再演算し、再演算された配置座標に対応する位置に配置された装飾画像７４と、いま新たに生成された第1の合成画像７３とを合成して、新たな第２の合成画像７５を生成し、それを表示させる。
【０１４１】
即ち、表示装置１５（表示部位２０）は、所定のサンプリング毎に、新たな第２の合成画像７５を表示する（その表示を更新する）。従って、装飾画像７４がユーザの動きにリアルタイムに（所定のサンプリングタイムで）追従し、その様子が表示されるので、ユーザは、所望の構図が得られた時点（所望の第２の合成画像７５が表示された時点）で印刷画像を確定することができる。
【０１４２】
さらに、図４のステップＳ３６の処理で選択される（演算される）配置座標は毎回（ステップＳ１６の処理（合成画像生成・表示処理）が行われる毎）変更されるので、撮影時には、装飾画像７４が、図７に示されるように、あたかもユーザ画像７１の輪郭上に沿って動いているように表示される。
【０１４３】
従って、装飾画像として、上述した１枚の静止画像である装飾画像７４ではなく、例えば、パンダ等が走って転ぶ等のアニメーションを構成する画像群が採用された場合、CPU３１は、毎回（ステップＳ１６の処理（合成画像生成・表示処理）が行われる毎）、第１の合成画像７３の上に各コマの画像を順々に配置するようにすれば、あたかもパンダ等がユーザの輪郭（例えば、肩や手等）上に沿って走って転ぶといったようなストーリー性のあるアニメーションを、表示装置１５（表示部位２９）に表示させることができる。
【０１４４】
このように、画像印刷装置１は、遊戯性のある撮影をすることができる。
【０１４５】
一方、ステップＳ１７において、印刷画像の確定指示があったと判定された場合（ユーザによりOKボタン16aが押下された場合）、CPU３１は、内蔵するタイマ３１aよりその時点（OKボタン16aに対応する信号が入力された時点）の時刻を取得し、その時刻を計時開始時刻としてRAM３３に記憶させる。
【０１４６】
そして、ステップＳ１８において、CPU３１は、タイマ３１aより所定の間隔で時刻を取得し、取得した時刻から計時開始時刻を減算して経過時間を演算し、この経過時間が、予め設定されている所定の時間以内であるか否かを判定することにより、所定の時間が経過したか否かを判定する。また、このとき同時に、CPU３１は、所定の時間までの残り時間を演算し（所定の時間から経過時間を減算し）、それを表示装置１５（表示部位２０）に表示させる（例えば、「残り時間 m（mは、カウントダウンされる値）」といったメッセージを表示させる）。
【０１４７】
ステップＳ１８において、所定の時間が経過していないと判定された場合、ステップＳ１６に戻り、それ以降の処理を繰り返す。
【０１４８】
ステップＳ１８において、所定の時間が経過したと判定された場合、ステップＳ１９において、CPU３１は、所定時間が経過した旨のメッセージ（例えば、「残り時間 ０」といったメッセージ）を表示装置１５（表示部位２０）に表示させ、直前のステップＳ１６の処理で生成された（いま表示装置１５（表示部位２０）に表示されている）第２の合成画像７５を、印刷画像として確定するとともに、いま確定された印刷画像（第２の合成画像７５）を印刷してよいか否かをユーザに対して問う旨のメッセージ（例えば、「これでいい？ これでいい場合は、OKボタンを押して。やり直す場合は、NOボタンを押して」といったメッセージ等）を表示装置１５（表示部位２０）に表示させる。
【０１４９】
ユーザは、この表示されたメッセージに従って、入力部１６を操作して、いま確定された印刷画像（第２の合成画像７５）を印刷してよいか否かを選択する。
【０１５０】
例えば、いま確定された印刷画像を印刷してよい旨の信号が入力された場合（例えば、ユーザによりYESボタン16aが押下された場合）、およびある一定の時間（ステップＳ１８の処理とは別の所定の時間）が経過された時点で何の信号も入力されなかった場合（ユーザが、何も操作しなかった場合）、ステップＳ２０において、CPU３１は、印刷画像を変更する指示がなかったと判定する。
【０１５１】
一方、いま確定された第２の合成画像を印刷しない旨の信号が入力された場合（例えば、ユーザによりNOボタン16bが押下された場合）、ステップＳ２０において、CPU３１は、印刷画像を変更する指示があったと判定する。
【０１５２】
ステップＳ２０において、印刷画像を変更する指示があったと判定された場合、ステップＳ１６に戻り、CPU３１は、それ以降の処理を繰り返す。即ち、ユーザは、ポーズを取り直して、再度印刷画像を選択し直すことができる。
【０１５３】
ステップＳ２０において、印刷画像を変更する指示がなかったと判定された場合、ステップＳ２１において、プリンタ１８は、CPU３１の制御に基づいて、ステップＳ１９の処理で確定された印刷画像（第２の合成画像７５）をシールシートに印刷する。プリンタ１８により印刷されたシールシートは、写真排出口２１から排出され、ユーザに提供される。
【０１５４】
このように、ユーザは、ポーズを決めた後に入力部１６を操作し（例えば、OKボタン１６ａを押下し）、表示装置１５（表示部位２０）に表示された残り時間を確認しながら最終ポーズをとれば、その最終ポーズで撮影されたユーザの画像（第２の合成画像７５）が印刷画像として確定され、それが印刷される。
【０１５５】
その結果、ユーザは、シャッターを押すためのリモートコントローラ装置等を使用せずに、所望のポーズで撮影された画像を取得することができ、また、製造者は、シャッターを押すためのリモートコントローラ装置等を不要とすることができるため、それに伴うコストを削減することができる。
【０１５６】
なお、この例においては、ユーザが撮影される回数は１回、即ち印刷されるユーザの画像のポーズは１ポーズに限定して説明したが、その回数は限定されず、複数回数とされてもよい。その場合、例えば、ステップＳ２０の処理が終了された後、CPU３１は、撮影回数分の撮影が終了したか否かを判定し、終了していないと判定した場合、直前のステップＳ１９の処理で確定された第２の合成画像７５（ユーザの撮影画像）を、印刷画像としてRAM３３に記憶させ、ステップＳ１６に戻り、それ以降の処理を繰り返せばよい。一方、終了したと判定された場合、RAM３３に記憶されている複数の印刷画像（撮影回数分のそれぞれポーズが異なる第２の合成画像７５）を読み出し、これらを、例えば１枚のシールシートに所定の順番で配置させて、プリンタ１８に印刷させればよい。
【０１５７】
印刷画像が印刷されると（ステップＳ２１の処理が終了されると）、CPU３１は、ステップＳ２２において、電源スイッチ２７がオフされたか否かを判定し、オフされていないと判定した場合、ステップＳ２４において、CCDカメラ１４によるモニタを終了させ、ステップＳ１１に戻り、それ以降の処理を繰り返す。即ち、次のユーザにより硬貨が投入されるまで、CPU３１は、その処理を待機する。
【０１５８】
一方、ステップＳ２２において、電源スイッチ２７がオフされたと判定された場合、CPU３１は、その処理を終了する。
【０１５９】
ところで、画像印刷装置１の管理者は、画像印刷装置１内に装填しているシールシートがなくなりそうになった場合、新しいシール紙ユニット２３に交換することにより、シールシートを補充する。シールシートの補充に際し、画像印刷装置１のCPU３１は、シール紙ユニット２３に付されているIDタグ２４を照合することにより、補充されたシールシートが、画像印刷装置１に適合したものか否かを判別することができる。次に、図８を参照して、シールシート(シール紙２５)のID検出処理について説明する。
【０１６０】
ステップＳ１０１において、CPU３１は、画像印刷装置１の所定の位置に、シール紙ユニット２３が装着されたか否かを監視し、シール紙ユニット２３が装着された場合、ステップＳ１０２に進む。
【０１６１】
ステップＳ１０２において、CPU３１からの指令により、IDタグリーダ／ライタ２６は、シール紙ユニット２３に付されているIDタグ２４のIDを読み取り、CPU３１に送信する。
【０１６２】
ステップＳ１０３において、CPU３１は、ステップＳ１０２の処理でIDタグリーダ／ライタ２６より受信したIDと、予めROM３２に記憶しているシール紙IDを照合し、両IDが同一であった場合、ステップＳ１０４に進み、CPU３１は、表示装置１５（表示部位２０）に、画像印刷装置１が使用可能である旨のメッセージを表示させる。
【０１６３】
ステップＳ１０５において、CPU３１は、画像印刷装置１を通常の撮影可能な状態(図３のステップＳ１１の状態)に復帰させる。
【０１６４】
ステップＳ１０３において、CPU３１が、IDタグリーダ／ライタ２６より受信したIDと、予めROM２２に記憶しているシール紙IDが一致しないと判定した場合、ステップＳ１０６に進み、CPU３１は、表示装置１５（表示部位２０）に、画像印刷装置１が使用不可能(撮影不可能)である旨のメッセージを表示させる。
【０１６５】
ステップＳ１０７において、CPU３１は、画像印刷装置１が使用不可能(撮影不可能)に設定する。その方法としては、例えば、硬貨投入口２８から硬貨を投入されないように、硬貨投入口２８にシャッタを下ろすことなどが可能である。
【０１６６】
なお、本実施の形態においては、シール紙ユニット２３にIDタグ２４を付すようにしたが、シール紙ユニット２３に装填されているシール紙２５の種類を識別することが可能であれば、その他の方法により、シール紙２５を識別するようにしても構わない。
【０１６７】
例えば、IDタグ２４の代わりに、バーコード、ICカード等の方法を用いて、シール紙ユニット２３を識別するようにしてもよい。また、シール紙ユニット２３の画像印刷装置１への装着部分の形状を、画像印刷装置１の機種毎に異なるものにし、適合するシール紙ユニット２３だけ、画像印刷装置１に装着可能なようにしても良い。
【０１６８】
また、シール紙２５とシール紙ユニット２３を分離可能に構成することも可能であり、また、一体的に構成することも可能である。
【０１６９】
（第２実施形態）
図９は、本発明の第２実施形態が適用される画像印刷装置８１の構成例を表しており、図１の画像印刷装置１に対応する部分には、対応する符号が付してある。
【０１７０】
この構成例においては、表示部位２０の上部に積層されるタッチパネル１６ｅが設けられている。
【０１７１】
即ち、上述したように、表示部位２０には、ハーフミラー１３により反射された画像（表示装置１５に表示された画像）、例えば、CCDカメラ１４により撮影された画像と編集イメージとが重ねられて表示される。従って、ユーザが落書きなどを入力している最中は、落書きなどが施された撮影画像が、表示部位２０に表示される。
【０１７２】
タッチパネル１６ｅは、スタイラスペン１６ｄからの入力を検出する。即ち、ユーザは、表示部位２０に表示された選択ボタン等をスタイラスペン１６ｄを用いて選択したり、表示部位２０に表示された撮影画像に対して、その上に落書きなどをしたりする。スタイラスペン１６ｄによる入力データは、タッチパネル１６ｅにより検出され、入力データとして主制御装置１９に書き込まれる。
【０１７３】
その他の構成は、図１における場合と同様である。
【０１７４】
また、図示は省略するが、画像印刷装置８１の内部の構造は、基本的に図２の画像印刷装置１の内部の構造と同様に構成されている。以下の説明では、図２は、画像印刷装置８１の内部の構成としても引用される。
【０１７５】
次に、図１０のフローチャートを参照して、図９の画像印刷装置８１の処理を説明する。
【０１７６】
ステップＳ１１１において、主制御装置１９のCPU３１は、硬貨が投入されたか否かを、代金処理部１７が硬貨を検知したか否かにより判定する。
【０１７７】
ステップＳ１１１において、硬貨が投入されていないと判定された場合、ステップＳ１１１に戻り、CPU３１は、硬貨が投入されたか否かを再度判定する。即ち、硬貨が投入されるまで、CPU３１は、その処理を待機する。
【０１７８】
いま、ユーザが硬貨投入口２８に所定の金額の硬貨を投入したものとする。
【０１７９】
そこで、ステップＳ１１１において、CPU３１は、硬貨が投入されたと判定し、ステップＳ１１２において、CCDカメラ１４は、CPU３１の制御に基づいて、撮影範囲内の空間のモニタを開始する。
【０１８０】
ステップＳ１１３において、CPU３１は、第１の合成画像を生成する。
【０１８１】
即ち、CPU３１は、例えば、画像プリントの作成および印刷処理の進行段階に応じて種々のメッセージ等を表示部位２０（表示装置１５）に表示させ、ユーザにより操作された入力部１６（例えば、OKボタン１６a、またはNOボタン１６ｂ等）から供給される信号を認知し、撮影手順を進行させる。
【０１８２】
なお、この例においては、撮影手順が進行される場合、OKボタン１６ａ、NOボタン１６ｂ、ジョイスティック１６ｃ、およびスタイラスペン１６ｄ（タッチパネル１６ｅ）が利用されるが、スタイラスペン１６ｄ（タッチパネル１６ｅ）のみが利用されるようにしてもよい。その場合、CPU３１は、例えば、画像プリントの作成および印刷処理の進行段階に応じて種々の選択ボタン（ソフトボタン）を表示部位２０に表示させ、ユーザに表示された選択ボタンを選択させる（スタイラスペン１６ｄの先端を表示された選択ボタンの上に配置させる）ことで、それを認知し、撮影手順を進行させる。
【０１８３】
そして、図４のステップＳ３１乃至Ｓ３４と同様に、CPU３１は、所定のサンプリングタイムでモニタ画像を取得し、モニタ画像からユーザの画像を抽出し、抽出したモニタ画像と、ユーザにより選択された下地画像とを合成して第１の合成画像を生成する。
【０１８４】
ステップＳ１１４において、CPU３１は、印刷画像（プリンタ１８に印刷させる画像）の確定指示があったか否かを判定する。
【０１８５】
例えば、この例においては、ステップＳ１１３において、CPU３１は、第１の合成画像を表示部位２０に表示させるとともに、印刷画像の確定指示をユーザに促す旨のメッセージ（例えば、「OKボタンを押すと、撮影を開始するよ」といったメッセージ）を表示させる。
【０１８６】
そこで、ユーザがこのメッセージに従って入力部１６を操作し、これにより、印刷画像の確定指示に対応する信号が、CPU３１に入力された場合（例えば、ユーザによりOKボタン16aが押下された場合）、CPU３１は、印刷画像の確定指示があったと判定し、一方、それ以外の場合、印刷画像の確定指示がないと判定する。
【０１８７】
ステップＳ１１４において、印刷画像の確定指示がないと判定された場合、ステップＳ１１３に戻り、それ以降の処理を繰り返す。
【０１８８】
即ち、ステップＳ１１４において、印刷画像の確定指示があったと判定されるまで（ユーザによりOKボタン16aが押下されるまで）、ステップＳ１１３の処理を繰り返す。
【０１８９】
具体的には、CPU３１は、所定のサンプリング毎に、CCDカメラ１４によりモニタされているユーザの画像を1枚取得し、取得されたユーザの画像に基づいて新たな第1の合成画像を生成し、表示部位２０に表示させる。
【０１９０】
即ち、表示部位２０は、所定のサンプリング毎に、新たな第１の合成画像を表示する（その表示を更新する）。従って、ユーザは、所望の構図が得られた時点（所望の第１の合成画像が表示された時点）で印刷画像を確定することができる。
【０１９１】
一方、ステップＳ１１４において、印刷画像の確定指示があったと判定された場合（ユーザによりOKボタン16aが押下された場合）、CPU３１は、内蔵するタイマ３１aよりその時点（OKボタン16aに対応する信号が入力された時点）の時刻を取得し、その時刻を計時開始時刻としてRAM３３に記憶させる。
【０１９２】
そして、ステップＳ１１５において、CPU３１は、タイマ３１aより所定の間隔で時刻を取得し、取得した時刻から計時開始時刻を減算して経過時間を演算し、この経過時間が、予め設定されている所定の時間以内であるか否かを判定することにより、所定の時間が経過したか否かを判定する。また、このとき同時に、CPU３１は、所定の時間までの残り時間を演算し（所定の時間から経過時間を減算し）、それを表示部位２０に表示させる（例えば、「残り時間 m（mは、カウントダウンされる値）」といったメッセージを表示させる）。
【０１９３】
ステップＳ１１５において、所定の時間が経過していないと判定された場合、ステップＳ１１３に戻り、それ以降の処理を繰り返す。
【０１９４】
ステップＳ１１５において、所定の時間が経過したと判定された場合、ステップＳ１１６において、CPU３１は、所定時間が経過した旨のメッセージ（例えば、「残り時間 ０」といったメッセージ）を表示部位２０に表示させ、直前のステップＳ１１３の処理で生成された（いま表示部位２０に表示されている）第１の合成画像を、印刷画像として確定するとともに、いま確定された印刷画像（第１の合成画像）を印刷してよいか否かをユーザに対して問う旨のメッセージ（例えば、「これでいい？ これでいい場合は、OKボタンを押して。やり直す場合は、NOボタンを押して」といったメッセージ等）を表示部位２０に表示させる。
【０１９５】
ユーザは、この表示されたメッセージに従って、入力部１６を操作して、いま確定された印刷画像（第１の合成画像）を印刷してよいか否かを選択する。
【０１９６】
例えば、いま確定された印刷画像を印刷してよい旨の信号が入力された場合（例えば、ユーザによりYESボタン16aが押下された場合）、およびある一定の時間（ステップＳ１１５の処理とは別の所定の時間）が経過された時点で何の信号も入力されなかった場合（ユーザが、何も操作しなかった場合）、ステップＳ１１７において、CPU３１は、印刷画像を変更する指示がなかったと判定する。
【０１９７】
一方、いま確定された第２の合成画像を印刷しない旨の信号が入力された場合（例えば、ユーザによりNOボタン16bが押下された場合）、ステップＳ１１７において、CPU３１は、印刷画像を変更する指示があったと判定する。
【０１９８】
ステップＳ１１７において、印刷画像を変更する指示があったと判定された場合、ステップＳ１１３に戻り、CPU３１は、それ以降の処理を繰り返す。即ち、ユーザは、ポーズを取り直して、再度印刷画像を選択し直すことができる。
【０１９９】
ステップＳ１１７において、印刷画像を変更する指示がなかったと判定された場合、ステップＳ１１８において、ユーザに、いま確定した印刷画像（第１の合成画像）に落書きをさせる処理を行う。
【０２００】
このステップＳ１１８における処理を、ここでは、「落書き処理」と称する。
この例の「落書き処理」の詳細が、図１１に示されている。そこで、この例の「落書き処理」を、図１１を参照して説明する。
【０２０１】
なお、以上においては、ユーザが撮影される回数は１回、即ち印刷されるユーザの画像のポーズは１ポーズに限定して説明したが、その回数は限定されず、複数回数とされてもよい。
【０２０２】
例えば、いま、ユーザが撮影される回数が３回とされた場合、図１０のステップＳ１１６で１回目の第１の合成画像（１ポーズ目の画像）が印刷画像として確定されると、その１ポーズ目の画像がRAM３３に記憶されるとともに、図１２の選択画像８１ａの領域に表示される。その後、再度ステップＳ１１３乃至Ｓ１１７が繰り返され、今度は２回目の第１の合成画像（２ポーズ目の画像）が、RAM３３に記憶されるとともに、選択画像８１ｂの領域に表示される。同様に、３回目の第１の合成画像（３ポーズ目の画像）が、RAM３３に記憶されるとともに、選択画像８１ｃの領域に表示される。
【０２０３】
そこで、ユーザは、スタイラスペン１６ｄを操作して、選択画像８１ａ乃至８１ｃの領域に表示されている画像のうち、落書きをする画像（編集画像）を選択する。
【０２０４】
例えば、いま、選択画像８１ａの領域に図６の第１の合成画像７３が表示されており、ユーザがそれを選択した場合、ステップＳ１３１において、CPU３１は、スタイラスペン１６ｄの先端が選択画像８１ａの領域に配置されたことを認知し、選択画像８１ａの領域に表示されている画像（第１の合成画像７３）を、編集画像８５として確定するとともに、図１２に示されるように、表示部位２０の中央部に表示させる（このときは、パンダの装飾画像７４は表示されない）。
【０２０５】
ステップＳ１３２において、CPU３１は、内蔵するタイマ３１aよりその時点（ステップＳ１３１が終了された時点）の時刻を取得し、その時刻を計時開始時刻としてRAM３３に記憶させる。そして、CPU３１は、タイマ３１aより所定の間隔で時刻を取得し、取得した時刻から計時開始時刻を減算して経過時間を演算し、この経過時間が、予め設定されている制限時間以内であるか否かを判定することにより、制限時間が経過したか否かを判定する。
【０２０６】
なお、ステップＳ１８の処理と同様に、このとき同時に、CPU３１は、所定の時間までの残り時間を演算し（所定の時間から経過時間を減算し）、それを表示部位２０に表示させてもよい（例えば、「残り時間 m（mは、カウントダウンされる値）」といったメッセージを表示させてもよい）。
【０２０７】
ステップＳ１３２において、制限時間が経過したと判定された場合、CPU３１は、落書き処理を終了し、次のステップ、即ち図１０のステップＳ１１９に進む。
【０２０８】
ステップＳ１３２において、制限時間が経過していないと判定された場合、ステップＳ１３３において、CPU３１は、輪郭スタンプが選択されたか否かを判定する。
【０２０９】
即ち、ユーザは、図１２に示される背景スタンプ８２ａ、前景スタンプ８２ｂ、および輪郭スタンプ８２ｃ領域のうち、所望のスタンプの種類の領域の上にスタイラスペン１６ｄ（タッチパネル１６ｅ）を配置することにより、いまから利用するスタンプの種類を選択する。
【０２１０】
なお、この例においては、例えば、上述した装飾画像が、編集画像８５（第１の合成画像７３）の所定の位置に配置され、表示される（スタンプされる）ことを、単にスタンプと称している。
【０２１１】
背景スタンプ８２ａとは、装飾画像の一部（または全部）がユーザ画像の上に重ねられて配置された場合、ユーザ画像に重なる部分は表示されないスタンプである。なお、この場合、図４のステップＳ３５と同様の処理により、ユーザの輪郭が検出され、この検出されたユーザの輪郭に基づいて、装飾画像がユーザの画像に重なっているか否かが判定される。
【０２１２】
前景スタンプ８２ｂとは、装飾画像が、最前（ユーザの画像、下地画像等の他の画面よりも前）になるように配置されるスタンプ、即ち、装飾画像の全てが表示されるスタンプである。
【０２１３】
輪郭スタンプ８２ｃとは、上述したように（第１の実施例で説明したように）、図４のステップＳ３５と同様の処理により、ユーザの輪郭が検出され、この検出されたユーザの輪郭上に、装飾画像が配置され、表示されるスタンプである。
【０２１４】
さて、背景スタンプ８２ａ、および前景スタンプ８２ｂが選択された場合、または、図示はしないが、テキスト挿入等のその他の落書き処理が選択された場合、ステップＳ１３３において、CPU３１は、輪郭スタンプが選択されていないと判定し、ステップＳ１３４において、いま選択された輪郭スタンプ以外の他の落書き処理を実行し、ステップＳ１３２に戻り、それ以降の処理を繰り返す。
【０２１５】
一方、ステップＳ１３３において、ユーザにより輪郭スタンプ８２ｃが選択された場合、CPU３１は、それを認知し、輪郭スタンプが選択されたと判定し、図４のステップＳ３５の処理と同様に、表示部位２０の中央部に表示されている編集画像８５のうち、ユーザの輪郭を検出し、検出したユーザの輪郭線７１ａを点滅させる。
【０２１６】
ステップＳ１３５において、制限時間が経過したと判定された場合、CPU３１は、落書き処理を終了し、次のステップ、即ち図１０のステップＳ１１９に進む。
【０２１７】
ステップＳ１３５において、制限時間が経過していないと判定された場合、ステップＳ１３６において、CPU３１は、装飾画像（アイテム）が選択されたか否かを判定する。
【０２１８】
即ち、ステップＳ１３３において、輪郭スタンプ８２ｃが選択されたと判定されると、輪郭スタンプ８２ｃに対応する装飾画像が、図１２に示されるように、アイテム８３の領域に表示される。即ち、例えば、輪郭スタンプ８２ｃに対応する装飾画像として、所定の３画像がROM３２等に記憶されていたとすると、CPU３１は、それらの画像を読み出し、アイテム８３ａ乃至８３ｃの領域にそれぞれ表示させる。
【０２１９】
いま、例えば、アイテム８３ａの領域にパンダの装飾画像７４が表示されており、ユーザが、それをスタイラスペン１６ｄにより選択した場合、ステップＳ１３６において、CPU３１は、スタイラスペン１６ｄの先端がアイテム８３ａの領域に配置されたことを認知し、いまからスタンプする（編集画像８５に配置する）装飾画像（アイテム）が選択されたと判定する。即ち、CPU３１は、アイテム８３ａの領域に表示されている画像（パンダの装飾画像７４）を、いまからスタンプする装飾画像として確定する。
【０２２０】
一方、ステップＳ１３６において、装飾画像（アイテム）が選択されていないと判定された場合、ステップＳ１３５に戻り、CPU３１は、それ以降の処理を繰り返す。即ち、装飾画像が選択されるか、または、制限時間が経過するまで、CPU３１は、その処理を待機する。
【０２２１】
装飾画像が選択されると（ステップＳ１３６の処理でYESと判定されると）、ステップS１３７において、図４のステップＳ３６乃至Ｓ３８の処理と同様に、CPU３１は、装飾画像７４を配置させる場合に基準となる配置座標を演算し、装飾画像７４を、第1の合成画像７３の配置座標に対応する位置に配置し、配置した装飾画像７４と編集画像８５（第１の合成画像７３）とを合成して、図７に示されるような第２の合成画像７５（ただし、装飾画像７４は、いま演算された配置座標に対応する位置に配置された１つの画像のみ）を生成し、RAM３３に記憶させ、ステップＳ１３８において、それを表示部位２０の中央部（編集画像８５が表示されていた領域）に表示させる。
【０２２２】
ステップＳ１３９において、CPU３１は、ユーザが確定ボタン８４を選択したか否かにより、即ち、スタイラスペン１６ｄの先端が確定ボタン８４の上に配置されたか否かを認知することにより、装飾画像７４の配置位置が確定されたか否かを判定する。
【０２２３】
ステップＳ１３９において、装飾画像７４の配置位置が確定されていないと判定された場合、ステップＳ１３５に戻り、それ以降の処理を繰り返す。
【０２２４】
即ち、例えば、上述したように（第１の実施例と同様に）、ステップＳ１３７の処理で選択される（演算される）配置座標は毎回（ステップＳ１３７の処理が行われる毎）変更されるようにすれば、落書き処理時には（ユーザが、確定ボタン８４を選択するまでは）、装飾画像７４が、図１２に示されるように、あたかもユーザ画像７１の輪郭線７１ａに沿って動いているように表示される。
【０２２５】
ステップS１３９において、装飾画像７４の配置位置が確定されたと判定された場合、CPU３１は、落書き処理を終了し、次のステップ、即ち図１０のステップＳ１１９に進む。
【０２２６】
図１０に戻り、ステップＳ１１９において、プリンタ１８は、CPU３１の制御に基づいて、落書き処理（ステップＳ１１８の処理）が施された印刷画像（いま、表示部位２０の中央部に表示されている画像）をシールシートに印刷する。プリンタ１８により印刷されたシールシートは、写真排出口２１から排出され、ユーザに提供される。
【０２２７】
印刷画像が印刷されると（ステップＳ１１９の処理が終了されると）、CPU３１は、ステップＳ１２０において、電源スイッチ２７がオフされたか否かを判定し、オフされていないと判定した場合、ステップＳ１２１において、CCDカメラ１４によるモニタを終了させ、ステップＳ１１１に戻り、それ以降の処理を繰り返す。即ち、次のユーザにより硬貨が投入されるまで、CPU３１は、その処理を待機する。
【０２２８】
一方、ステップＳ１２０において、電源スイッチ２７がオフされたと判定された場合、CPU３１は、その処理を終了する。
【０２２９】
上述した一連の処理を実行させるプログラムは、ネットワークや記録媒体からインストールされる。この記録媒体は、図２に示されるように、装置本体とは別に、画像印刷装置１の所有者等にプログラムを提供するために配布され、ドライブ３９に装着される、プログラムが記録されている磁気ディスク５１（フロッピディスクを含む）、光ディスク５２（CD-ROM(Compact Disk-Read Only Memory),DVD(Digital Versatile Disk)を含む）、光磁気ディスク５３（ＭＤ（Mini-Disk）を含む）、もしくは半導体メモリ５４などよりなるパッケージメディアにより構成されるだけでなく、装置本体に予め組み込まれた状態でユーザに提供される、プログラムが記録されているROM３２や、記憶部３７に含まれるハードディスクなどで構成される。
【０２３０】
なお、本明細書において、記録媒体に記録されるプログラムを記述するステップは、記載された順序に沿って時系列的に行われる処理はもちろん、必ずしも時系列的に処理されなくとも、並列的あるいは個別に実行される処理をも含むものである。
【０２３１】
【発明の効果】
以上のごとく、本発明の画像印刷装置および方法、並びにプログラムによれば、撮影された撮影範囲内の画像のうち、ユーザの画像を抽出し、抽出されたユーザの画像と、予め設定されている所定の下地画像とを合成して第１の合成画像を生成する。さらに、抽出されたユーザの画像の輪郭を検出し、生成された第1の合成画像内の、検出されたユーザの画像の輪郭上の所定の位置に、予め設定されている所定の装飾画像を配置する。そして、配置された装飾画像と、生成された第１の合成画像とを合成して第２の合成画像を生成し、印刷するようにしたので、遊戯性のある撮影ができるとともに、個性に富んだ画像を容易に提供することができる。
【図面の簡単な説明】
【図１】本発明の第１実施形態が適用される画像印刷装置の構成例の配置を示す図である。
【図２】図１の画像印刷装置の内部の構成例を示すブロック図である。
【図３】図１の画像印刷装置の処理を説明するフローチャートである。
【図４】図３のステップＳ１６の合成画像生成・表示処理の詳細を説明するフローチャートである。
【図５】図１の画像印刷装置において使用される装飾様式テーブルの構成例を示す図である。
【図６】図１の画像印刷装置により生成された第１の合成画像例を示す図である。
【図７】図１の画像印刷装置により生成された第２の合成画像例を示す図である。
【図８】本発明が適用される印刷媒体ユニットが装着された図１の画像印刷装置のID検出処理を説明するフローチャートである。
【図９】本発明の第２実施形態が適用される画像印刷装置の構成例の配置を示す図である。
【図１０】図９の画像印刷装置の処理を説明するフローチャートである。
【図１１】図１０のステップＳ１１８の落書き処理の詳細を説明するフローチャートである。
【図１２】図１０のステップＳ１１８の落書き処理において、表示部位に表示される画像例を示す図である。
【符号の説明】
１ 画像印刷装置，
１４ CCDカメラ，
１５ 表示装置，
１６ 入力部，
１８ プリンタ，
１９ 主制御装置，
２０ 表示部位，
２３ シール紙ユニット，
２４ IDタグ，
２５ シール紙，
２６ IDタグリーダ／ライタ，
３１ CPU
３２ ROM，
３３ RAM，
３７ 記憶部，
３９ ドライブ，
６１ 装飾様式テーブル，
７１ ユーザ画像，
７２ 下地画像，
７３ 第１の合成画像，
７４ 装飾画像，
７５ 第２の合成画像，
an 輪郭点[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an image printing apparatus and method, and a program, and more particularly, to an image printing apparatus and method, and a program capable of taking a playable image and easily providing an image rich in individuality. .
[0002]
[Prior art]
2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, an image printing apparatus (for example, a print club (trademark)) that captures a user, combines the captured image with a predetermined frame, prints the image on a sticker sheet, and outputs the image is known.
[0003]
In such an image printing apparatus, the user selects a desired frame from a plurality of frames (background and foreground) in advance using a menu or the like at the time of shooting, and confirms a composite image in which the selected frame and the user are combined. Then, the shooting position is adjusted, a pose is taken, and a shooting instruction is given (for example, a shooting start button or the like is pressed).
[0004]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, when there is a need to provide a more individual image in the conventional image printing apparatus (for example, when there is a request from a large number of users or when it is desired to differentiate from a counter model) Etc.), it was necessary to increase the amount of frames mounted.
[0005]
That is, for the manufacturer, there are problems such as difficulty in manufacturing a large amount of frames and an increase in cost, and for the user, the complexity of operation when selecting a desired frame from a large amount of frames, There were problems such as difficulty.
[0006]
In addition, an image printing apparatus typified by a print club is required to have a lot of playability due to its nature, but a conventional image printing apparatus simply combines a background (foreground) and a user. There is a problem that the user only needs to check the composite image and shoot it, and it is not interesting at the time of shooting.
[0007]
The present invention has been made in view of such a situation, and is intended to provide an image rich in individuality while allowing shooting with playability.
[0008]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
  An image printing apparatus according to the present invention includes a photographing unit that photographs a user, an extracting unit that extracts a user image among images within a photographing range photographed by the photographing unit, and a user image extracted by the extracting unit. Detection means for detecting an outline, arrangement means for arranging a predetermined decoration image set in advance at a predetermined position on the outline of the user image detected by the detection means, and a decoration image arranged by the arrangement means And printing means for printing the composite image after the composite image with the image within the photographing range photographed by the photographing means is displayed on a predetermined display device;Confirming means for instructing to confirm a composite image to be printed out of the displayed composite images;A predetermined decoration image arranged by the arrangement means from a plurality of decoration images, and as an element of a decoration style of the set predetermined decoration imageYuA predetermined position on the contour of the user's imageDetection coordinates used as a reference for detectingThe moving direction and moving distance are set, and a new image of the user is extracted by the extracting meansAnd the contour of the user's image is extracted by the detection means, and the composite image is displayed with the intersection of the straight line descending from the detected coordinates in the vertical direction and the contour of the user's image as a predetermined position on the contour of the user's image, Next, if there is no confirmation instruction for the composite image to be printed by the confirmation means, the detected coordinates areAccording to the movement direction and distance set as decoration style elementsA predetermined distance in the horizontal directionMovedThe predetermined position on the contour of the user's image.Update sequentiallyRepeat the processIt is characterized by that.
[0009]
  In the image printing apparatus of the present invention, the user image is extracted from the captured images within the shooting range, the contour of the extracted user image is detected, and the predetermined contour on the detected user image is detected. A predetermined decoration image set in advance is arranged at the position of, and a composite image of the arranged decoration image and the image within the photographing range is displayed on a predetermined display device, and then the composite image is printed Is done.Of the displayed composite images, a composite image to be printed is instructed.A predetermined decorative image to be arranged is set from a plurality of decorative images, and as an element of a decoration style of the set predetermined decorative imageYuA predetermined position on the contour of the user's imageWhen the moving direction and moving distance of the detection coordinate serving as a reference for detecting the image are set and a new image of the user is extracted, the contour of the user image is extracted, and the straight line drawn down from the detected coordinate in the vertical direction and the user's When the composite image is displayed with the intersection with the image contour as a predetermined position on the contour of the user image, and the confirmation instruction of the composite image to be printed next is not given, the detected coordinates areAccording to the movement direction and distance set as decoration style elementsA predetermined distance in the horizontal directionMovedAs a result, the predetermined position on the contour of the user's image isSequentially updatedThe process is repeated.
[0010]
Accordingly, it is possible to provide an image rich in individuality in which a decorative image such as a small bird is pasted on the contour (eg, hand or shoulder) of the user's image.
[0011]
The photographing unit is configured by, for example, a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) camera, the extracting unit, the detecting unit, and the arranging unit are configured by, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and the printing unit is configured by, for example, a printer.
[0012]
  In the image printing apparatus of the present invention, the first synthesized image is generated by synthesizing the user image extracted by the extracting unit and a predetermined base image set in advance.RawThe second synthesized image is generated by synthesizing the first synthesized image and the preset decoration image.And
Placement meansThe secondPlace a decoration image at a predetermined position on the contour of the user's image in one composite imageThe image printing deviceThe first synthesized image and the decoration image arranged by the arranging unit are synthesized to generate a second synthesized image.,LivingThe formed second synthesized image can be printed.
[0013]
Therefore, the user's image is pasted on various background images, and further, a unique image in which a decorative image such as a bird is pasted on the contour (for example, hand or shoulder) of the user's image is provided. can do.
[0015]
  In the image printing apparatus of the present invention, the arranging means is the extracting means.RiyuTheNewA predetermined decoration image can be arranged based on the predetermined position updated each time an image is extracted.
[0016]
Therefore, the decorative image can be reliably and easily arranged at a predetermined position on the contour of the user image.
[0018]
  In the image printing apparatus of the present invention, when it is determined that a predetermined condition is satisfied, a display unit that displays an image, a first display control unit that displays the second composite image on the display unit, and Immediately before or after, the image processing apparatus further includes a confirmation unit that confirms the second composite image displayed on the display unit by the first display control unit as a print image to be printed by the printing unit, and the print image is displayed by the determination unit. The imaging means continuously shoots the user until it is confirmed, the extracting means extracts the user image at a predetermined sampling time, and the first display control means is based on the extracting means.RiyuTheNewEach time an image is extracted, the display of the display means can be updated to the newly generated second composite image.
[0019]
Therefore, the decoration image follows the movement of the user in real time (a predetermined sampling time) and the state is displayed, so that the user determines the image to be printed when a desired composition is obtained. Can do.
[0020]
The display means is constituted by a display device such as a CRT (Cathode-Ray Tude), and the first display control means and the confirmation means are constituted by a CPU, for example.
[0021]
In the image printing apparatus of the present invention, a confirmation signal input means for inputting a signal for confirming a print image, a time measurement means for starting time measurement when a signal is input by the confirmation signal input means, and a time measurement by the time measurement means A second display control means for calculating a remaining time until a predetermined time set in advance based on the calculated time, and displaying the remaining time until the predetermined time calculated on the display means; The determining means may determine that the predetermined condition is satisfied when the predetermined time is measured by the time measuring means.
[0022]
Therefore, after the user determines the pose, for example, the user operates a switch or button (inputs a signal to confirm the image to be printed) and takes the final pose within a predetermined time. The user's image taken at is printed. As a result, the user can obtain an image of a desired pose without using a remote controller device for pressing the shutter, and the manufacturer does not need a remote controller device for pressing the shutter. Therefore, the costs associated therewith can be reduced.
[0023]
The first input means is configured by an input unit including, for example, a switch or a button, the time measuring means is configured by, for example, a timer, and the second display control means is configured by, for example, a CPU.
[0024]
  In the image printing apparatus of the present invention,Can be placed by placement meansStorage means for storing a plurality of decorative images;,Based on the set decoration style, SettingProcessing means for processing the predetermined predetermined decoration image may be further provided, and the arranging means may arrange the predetermined decoration image processed by the processing means.
[0025]
  In addition to the moving direction and the moving distance, the image printing apparatus further includes, as an element of the decoration style,At least one of a plurality of elements including at least the arrangement number, size, rotation angle, and transparency of the decorative image can be set.
[0026]
Therefore, the user can select (set) a desired design while viewing the screen, and can acquire an image rich in individuality that the user himself can satisfy.
[0027]
The storage means is configured by an external storage unit such as a hard disk or a built-in memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory), for example, and the setting means and processing means are configured by a CPU, for example.
[0028]
  Image printing deviceA multiple of 90 degrees can be set as the rotation angle of the decoration image.
[0029]
Accordingly, it is possible to reduce the amount of computation in the decorative image rotation processing, and to reduce the cost of the computation processing unit of the image printing apparatus.
[0031]
Therefore, at the time of shooting, a decorative image such as a small bird is displayed as if it moves along the contour of the user (for example, a shoulder or a hand), so that shooting with playability can be performed.
[0032]
  In the image printing apparatus of the present invention, the storage means further stores a plurality of the decoration styles, and the plurality of decoration images and the plurality of decoration styles stored in the storage means are sampled in the display means. A sample display control means to be displayed, and a signal corresponding to a decoration image and a decoration style selected by the user among a plurality of decoration images and a plurality of decoration style samples displayed on the display means by the sample display control means are input respectively. And a selection signal input means forImage printing deviceThe predetermined decoration image arranged by the arrangement means can be set based on the signal input by the selection signal input means, and the decoration style of the set predetermined decoration image can be set.
[0033]
Therefore, the user can easily select a decoration image and a decoration style.
[0034]
In the image printing apparatus of the present invention, the decoration image is an image group, and the arranging unit selects one image selected according to a predetermined rule from the predetermined image group, at a predetermined position on the contour of the user image. Can be arranged.
[0035]
For example, as an image group, an image group constituting an animation such as a panda running and falling is adopted, and an image corresponding to each frame of the animation is displayed each time according to the order in which each preset frame is displayed. If a different image is selected and placed at a predetermined position on the contour of the user's image (for example, a predetermined position moved at predetermined time intervals as described in claim 8), the image is taken. Sometimes, it is possible to display a story-like animation as if a panda or the like runs along the user's outline (for example, a shoulder or a hand) and falls. Therefore, shooting with playability can be performed.
[0036]
In the image printing apparatus of the present invention, a printing medium on which a second image is printed by the printing means, a reading means for reading identification information for identifying the mounted printing medium, and a reading result by the reading means Based on this, it is possible to further provide print control means for controlling printing on the print medium.
[0037]
The print medium printed by the printing means can be a seal.
[0038]
Therefore, when the seal sheet is replenished to the image printing apparatus, it is definitely possible to replenish the seal sheet designated in advance as dedicated to the image printing apparatus.
[0039]
The reading unit is configured by, for example, an ID tag reader / writer, and the control unit is configured by, for example, a CPU.
[0040]
The print medium unit of the present invention is a print medium unit used by the above-described image printing apparatus, stores a print medium on which a second image is printed by the printing unit, and stores identification information read by the reading unit. It is characterized by holding.
[0041]
  The image printing method of the present invention is extracted by a shooting step of shooting a user, an extraction step of extracting a user image out of images within a shooting range shot by the processing of the shooting step, and processing of the extraction step A detection step for detecting a contour of the user image, a placement step for placing a predetermined decorative image set in advance at a predetermined position on the contour of the user image detected by the processing of the detection step, and a placement step A printing step of printing a composite image after a composite image of the decoration image arranged by the processing of the above and an image within the imaging range captured by the processing of the imaging step is displayed on a predetermined display device;A confirmation step for instructing confirmation of a composite image to be printed out of the displayed composite images;A predetermined decoration image arranged by the processing of the arrangement step is set from a plurality of decoration images, and is used as an element of the decoration style of the set predetermined decoration imageYuA predetermined position on the contour of the user's imageDetection coordinates used as a reference for detectingA new image of the user is extracted by the setting step of setting the moving direction and moving distance of the user and the processing of the extracting stepThen, the contour of the user's image is extracted by the processing of the detection step, and the composite image is displayed with the intersection of the straight line descending from the detected coordinates in the vertical direction and the contour of the user's image as a predetermined position on the contour of the user's image Then, if there is no instruction to confirm the composite image to be printed by the process of the confirmation step, the detected coordinates areAccording to the movement direction and distance set as decoration style elementsA predetermined distance in the horizontal directionMovedThe predetermined position on the contour of the user's image.Update sequentiallyRepeat the processAnd an update step.
[0042]
  The program of the present invention includes a shooting step for shooting a user, an extraction step for extracting a user image from images within the shooting range shot by the processing of the shooting step, and the user extracted by the processing of the extraction step. A detection step for detecting the contour of the image, a placement step for placing a predetermined decorative image set in advance at a predetermined position on the contour of the user image detected by the processing of the detection step, and processing for the placement step A printing step for printing a composite image after a composite image of the decorative image arranged by the image and an image within the photographing range photographed by the processing of the photographing step is displayed on a predetermined display device;A confirmation step for instructing confirmation of a composite image to be printed out of the displayed composite images;A predetermined decoration image arranged by the processing of the arrangement step is set from a plurality of decoration images, and is used as an element of the decoration style of the set predetermined decoration imageYuA predetermined position on the contour of the user's imageDetection coordinates used as a reference for detectingA new image of the user is extracted by the setting step of setting the moving direction and moving distance of the user and the processing of the extracting stepThen, the contour of the user's image is extracted by the processing of the detection step, and the composite image is displayed with the intersection of the straight line descending from the detected coordinates in the vertical direction and the contour of the user's image as a predetermined position on the contour of the user's image Then, if there is no instruction to confirm the composite image to be printed by the process of the confirmation step, the detected coordinates areAccording to the movement direction and distance set as decoration style elementsA predetermined distance in the horizontal directionMovedThe predetermined position on the contour of the user's image.Update sequentiallyRepeat the processAnd an update step.
[0043]
  In the image printing method and program of the present invention, the user image is extracted from the captured images and the contour of the extracted user image is detected. On the detected contour of the user image A predetermined decoration image set in advance is arranged at a predetermined position of the image, and a composite image of the arranged decoration image and the image within the photographing range is displayed on a predetermined display device, and then the composite image Is printed,Of the displayed composite images, a composite image to be printed is instructed.A predetermined decorative image to be arranged is set from a plurality of decorative images, and as an element of a decoration style of the set predetermined decorative imageYuA predetermined position on the contour of the user's imageWhen the moving direction and moving distance of the detection coordinate serving as a reference for detecting the image are set and a new image of the user is extracted, the contour of the user image is extracted, and the straight line drawn down from the detected coordinate in the vertical direction and the user's When the composite image is displayed with the intersection with the image contour as a predetermined position on the contour of the user image, and the confirmation instruction of the composite image to be printed next is not given, the detected coordinates areAccording to the movement direction and distance set as decoration style elementsA predetermined distance in the horizontal directionMovedAs a result, the predetermined position on the contour of the user's image isUpdated sequentiallyThe process is repeated.
[0044]
Accordingly, it is possible to provide an image rich in individuality in which a decorative image such as a small bird is pasted on the contour (eg, hand or shoulder) of the user's image.
[0045]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
(First embodiment)
A configuration example of the image printing apparatus 1 to which the first embodiment of the present invention is applied will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2.
[0046]
FIG. 1A shows a side sectional view of the image printing apparatus 1, and FIG. 1B shows a front view thereof.
[0047]
The image printing apparatus 1 is disposed in a building such as a street corner or a building, for example.
[0048]
A power switch 27 is provided at the lower part of the rear surface 22b of the housing 22 of the image printing apparatus 1, and its connection terminal is connected to a nearby commercial AC power supply. When the power switch 27 is turned on, the image printing apparatus 1 is started. On the other hand, when the switch is turned off, the operation of the image printing apparatus 1 is finished.
[0049]
The curtain 11 is installed at a position facing the upper portion of the front surface 22a of the casing 22 of the image printing apparatus 1 with a predetermined distance therebetween, and the user enters between the casing 22 and the curtain 11. . That is, a predetermined range of the space between the casing 22 and the curtain 11 is a shooting range, and the image printing apparatus 1 captures an image of a user positioned (entered) in the shooting range. To do. In this case, the curtain 11 blocks light (external light) incident from outside the space in the shooting range.
[0050]
Inside the housing 22 of the image printing apparatus 1, there is an upper portion (the upper left side in FIG. 1A) of the rear surface of the rear surface 22b (hereinafter, the outer side of the housing 22 is referred to as the front and the inner side of the housing 22 is referred to as the back). 1), a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) camera 14 for photographing the user is provided, and a half mirror 13 is provided on the right side of the CCD camera 14 in FIG. 1A. A display device 15 made of CRT (Cathode-Ray Tude) or the like is provided below 13, and a main control device 19 is provided below the display device 15.
[0051]
Under the control of the main control device 19, the display device 15 displays images taken by the CCD camera 14, various messages according to the progress of image print creation and print processing, and the like.
[0052]
The half mirror 13 reflects the image displayed on the display device 15 so that the user can visually recognize the image. That is, the display part 20 is provided in the upper center part of the front surface 22a of the housing 22 of the image printing apparatus 1, and the image reflected on the display part 20 by the half mirror 13 (displayed on the display apparatus 15). Displayed image) is displayed. Further, the half mirror 13 transmits the image of the user (the space in the shooting range) during shooting and causes the CCD camera 14 to take a picture.
[0053]
The main control device 19 is composed of, for example, a personal computer or the like, controls the CCD camera 14 to photograph the user, acquires the image, and performs predetermined image processing (for example, FIG. 4 described later) on the acquired image. Composite image generation / display processing, etc.) and display on the display device 15 as described above.
[0054]
The main control device 19 controls the overall operation of the image printing apparatus 1.
[0055]
For example, the illumination device 12 is provided on both sides of the display part 20 on the front surface 22 a of the housing 22 of the image printing apparatus 1, and the main control device 19 controls the illumination device 12. That is, the illumination device 12 functions as a flash when the user is photographed by the CCD camera 14 based on the control of the main control device 19 and the interior is darkened by the outside light being blocked by the curtain 11. The user is also illuminated in the previous state.
[0056]
Furthermore, an input unit 16 including an OK button 16a, a NO button 16b, a joystick 16c, and the like is provided on the front surface 22a of the housing 22 of the image printing apparatus 1 below the display portion 20, and the main control device 19 is provided. Recognizes the signal input from the input unit 16 and executes various processes corresponding thereto.
[0057]
For example, the main control device 19 displays various messages on the display device 15 (display portion 20) according to the progress of image print creation and print processing, and the user inputs the input unit 16 according to the displayed messages. Is operated, the operation is recognized (a signal from the input unit 16 is recognized), and the control associated therewith is executed. As a result, the photographing procedure proceeds.
[0058]
Further, a coin insertion slot 28 is provided on the front surface 22a of the casing 22 of the image printing apparatus 1 on the lower right side in FIG. 1B of the input unit 16 and on the back side of the coin insertion slot 28 (inside the casing 22). A price processing unit 17 is provided, and the main control device 19 controls the price processing unit 17.
[0059]
That is, the price processing unit 17 detects the coins inserted from the coin insertion slot 28 based on the control of the main control device 19, calculates the total amount of the inserted coins, and the calculated amount is used to create an image. When it is determined that a predetermined amount set in advance as a price has been reached, this is notified to the main controller 19. The main control device 19 starts the imaging procedure described above based on the notification from the price processing unit 17.
[0060]
Although not shown, a return port for returning change and a bill insertion port for inserting bills are provided near the coin insertion port 28 as needed. In this case, the price processing unit 17 performs processing such as bill detection and change calculation based on the control of the main control device 19.
[0061]
Furthermore, a photographic discharge port 21 is provided below the front surface 22a of the casing 22 of the image printing apparatus 1 (lower left side of the coin insertion port 28 in FIG. 1B), and the back side of the photographic discharge port 21 (the housing 22). Inside, a printer 18 is provided, and the main control device 19 controls the printer 18.
[0062]
That is, the printer 18 is a part that creates an image sticker based on the control of the main control device 19 and is photographed by the CCD camera 14 and subjected to predetermined image processing (such as various compositing processes described later). Image (an image determined to be printed, hereinafter referred to as a print image) is used as a seal sheet (hereinafter also referred to as a seal paper 25) supplied from a seal paper unit 23 provided on the printer 18. Print and output. The printer 18 prints the print image selected by the user on the seal paper 25 in the designated division unit. Note that the user can select and print several types of print images on one sticker sheet 25.
[0063]
An ID tag reader / writer 26 is provided on the printer 18, and the ID tag reader / writer 26 reads the ID tag 24 attached to the sticker unit 25 and notifies the main controller 19. The main control device 19 stores the ID notified from the ID tag reader / writer 26 with the ID stored in advance in the main control device 19 (for example, ROM 32 to be described later), and is stored in the sticker unit 23. It is determined whether or not the seal paper 25 being used is a suitable seal paper to be used by the image printing apparatus 1, and the image printing apparatus 1 can be used or disabled.
[0064]
That is, when the ID written in the ID tag 24 matches the ID stored in the main controller 19 in advance, the main controller 19 enables the image printing apparatus 1, while the ID is written in the ID tag 24. If the received ID does not match the ID stored in the main controller 19 in advance, the main controller 19 disables the image printing apparatus 1.
[0065]
The sticker unit 23 is detachable from the image printing apparatus 1. The sticker 25 is loaded inside, and an ID tag 24 is attached at a predetermined position where the ID tag reader / writer 26 can read the ID. Has been. In an ID tag 24 attached to the sticker paper unit 23, an ID corresponding to the type of the sticker paper 25 loaded is written.
[0066]
There are special sticker sheets depending on the model of the image printing device. For this reason, conventionally, there has been a mistake that a sticker paper (sticker paper for other models) that is not compatible with the image printing apparatus is loaded into the image printing apparatus. Thus, by providing the identification means for identifying the seal sheet dedicated to the image printing apparatus 1 as described above, it becomes possible to identify and print the seal sheet dedicated to the image printing apparatus 1. In other words, the seal sheet mount or the cartridge for storing the mount is provided with a barcode, an ID tag, or the like so that it can be identified whether it is a dedicated one. Thereby, a high-quality seal can be used in a limited manner and a good print finish can be maintained.
[0067]
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an internal configuration example of the image printing apparatus 1 of FIG. The description of the parts described in FIG. 1 is omitted.
[0068]
In the main control device 19 of FIG. 2, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 31, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 32, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 33 are connected to a bus 35.
[0069]
The CPU 31 controls the overall operation of the main controller 19 via the bus 35 in accordance with a program stored in the ROM 32 or a program loaded from the storage unit 37 into the RAM 33. The RAM 33 also stores data necessary for the CPU 31 to execute various processes as appropriate. The CPU 31 has a timer (system clock) 31a therein, and the timer 31a performs an operation at the normal time.
[0070]
That is, the various operations controlled by the main control device 19 are actually controlled by the CPU 31 built in the main control device 19.
[0071]
For example, a CCD camera control unit 34 is also connected to the bus 35, and the CPU 31 controls the CCD camera control unit 34 via the bus 35. That is, the CCD camera control unit 34 is connected to an external CCD camera 14 (external as viewed from the main control device 19), and starts or ends the photographing operation by the CCD camera 14 based on the control of the CPU 31. In addition, the zoom rate of the CCD camera 14 and the amount of light to be captured are appropriately controlled.
[0072]
An input / output interface 36 is also connected to the bus 35, and the external CCD camera 14 and the display device 15 described above (external as viewed from the main control device 19) are connected to the input / output interface 36. . As a result, the CPU 31 acquires an image captured by the CCD camera 14 via the input / output interface 36 and the bus 35, performs predetermined image processing on the acquired image, and passes through the bus 35 and the input / output interface 36. It is displayed on the display device 15.
[0073]
The input / output interface 36 is connected to the above-described external lighting device 12 (external when viewed from the main control device 19), the input unit 16, the price processing unit 17, the printer 18, and the ID tag reader / writer 26. . As a result, the CPU 31 controls the illumination device 12, the price processing unit 17, and the printer 18 via the input / output interface 36 and the bus 35, and inputs / outputs from the input unit 16 or the ID tag reader / writer 26. Various operations are controlled based on signals inputted through the interface 36 and the bus 35. Note that the control of the CPU 31 is the same as that described above as the control of the main control device 19, and therefore the description thereof is omitted.
[0074]
Also connected to the input / output interface 36 are a storage unit 37 composed of a hard disk or the like, and a communication unit 38 composed of a modem, a terminal adapter and the like. The communication unit 38 performs communication processing via a network.
[0075]
A drive 39 is connected to the input / output interface 36 as necessary, and a magnetic disk 51, an optical disk 52, a magneto-optical disk 53, a semiconductor memory 54, or the like is appropriately mounted, and a computer program read from these is loaded. Installed in the storage unit 37 as necessary.
[0076]
Next, processing of the image printing apparatus 1 in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.
[0077]
In step S <b> 11, the CPU 31 of the main controller 19 determines whether or not a coin has been inserted based on whether or not the price processing unit 17 has detected a coin.
[0078]
If it is determined in step S11 that no coin has been inserted, the process returns to step S11, and the CPU 31 determines again whether or not a coin has been inserted. That is, the CPU 31 waits for the processing until coins are inserted.
[0079]
Now, assume that the user has inserted a predetermined amount of coins into the coin insertion slot 28.
[0080]
Therefore, in step S11, the CPU 31 determines that a coin has been inserted, and in step S12, the CCD camera 14 starts photographing a space within the photographing range based on the control of the CPU 31.
[0081]
In this example, it is assumed that the CCD camera 14 continuously shoots a space within the shooting range. That is, the CCD camera control unit 34 controls the CCD camera 14 constituting the digital still camera to continuously shoot the space within the shooting range based on the control of the CPU 31.
[0082]
Hereinafter, such “continuous shooting” is referred to as “monitoring”, and “the image currently being monitored” is hereinafter referred to as “monitor image”.
[0083]
That is, after the process of step S12 is completed (until the process of step S23 described later is executed), the CCD camera 14 constantly monitors the users who are in the shooting range.
[0084]
In step S13, the CPU 31 sets a decoration image and a decoration style.
[0085]
Specifically, the CPU 31 stores a plurality of decoration images (for example, a panda decoration image 74 in FIG. 7 to be described later) and a plurality of decoration styles (for example, FIG. 5 to be described later) stored in the storage unit 37 in advance. A sample of each decoration style constituting the decoration pattern 61-N of each “decoration ID N” in the decoration style table 61 is displayed on the display device 15 (display part 20).
[0086]
In addition, as a sample of the decoration style, the decoration pattern 61-N of each “decoration ID N” of the decoration style table 61 may be displayed as it is, but an image based on the decoration pattern 61-N of each “decoration ID N” The processed predetermined decoration image may be displayed.
[0087]
In this example, the user selects a desired decoration image and decoration style from a plurality of decoration images and a plurality of decoration style samples displayed on the display region 20, for example, by operating the joystick 16c. For example, the OK button 16a is operated as the operation indicating the end.
[0088]
Now, for example, it is assumed that the panda decoration image 74 is selected as the decoration image, and the decoration pattern 61-1 “decoration ID 1” is selected from the decoration style table 61 as the decoration style.
[0089]
Therefore, the CPU 31 inputs a signal corresponding to the decoration image (panda decoration image 74) supplied from the joystick 16c and a signal corresponding to the decoration style (decoration pattern 61-1 of "decoration ID 1"). These are stored in the RAM 33 as a decoration image and a decoration style to be set.
[0090]
Further, when the OK button 16a is pressed by the user, the CPU 31 inputs a signal supplied from the OK button 16a, thereby determining that the user has selected a decoration image and a decoration style, and is now stored in the RAM 33. The decoration image and decoration style to be set are set as the final decoration image and decoration style.
[0091]
That is, in this example, the panda decoration image 74 is set as the decoration image, and the decoration pattern 61-1 of “decoration ID 1” is set as the decoration style.
[0092]
Thus, the user can easily select a desired design while viewing the display part 20.
[0093]
Note that after the process of step S13, the CPU 31 displays the selected decoration image and decoration style on the display device 15 (display part 20), and whether or not to reselect the decoration image and decoration style for the user. May be displayed (for example, a message such as “Is this OK (displayed decoration image and decoration style) displayed? OK button if you want, press NO button if you want to try again”).
[0094]
In that case, the user operates the input unit 16 to supply the image printing apparatus 1 with a signal indicating whether or not to redo (for example, when redoing, when the user presses the NO button 16b and does not redo, Press the YES button 16a). The image printing apparatus 1 (CPU 31) determines whether or not to redo based on the supplied signal, and repeats step S13 when it is determined to redo. On the other hand, if it is determined not to redo, the process proceeds to step S14.
[0095]
In this example, one decoration pattern (collection of a plurality of decoration styles) 61-N of “decoration ID N” is set from the decoration style table 61 that is preset (stored in the storage unit 37 in advance). The user can select a plurality of decoration styles (for example, the size, rotation angle, transparency, or moving direction / step of the decoration image constituting the decoration pattern 61-N of each “decoration ID N”). Although it is set, the selection may be made independently for each decoration style. As a result, the user can make a finer selection, and can acquire an image with higher satisfaction.
[0096]
In step S <b> 14, the CPU 31 stores the selected decoration image (in this example, a panda decoration image 74) and the decoration style (in this example, the decoration pattern 61-1 of “decoration ID 1”) from the storage unit 37. In step S15, the read decoration image is processed (image processing) according to the read decoration style.
[0097]
For example, in this example, the decoration image 74 is reduced to the size described in the decoration pattern 61-1 of “decoration ID 1”, that is, the size of 40 pixels in width and 50 pixels in height.
[0098]
The size changing method is not limited. For example, a method of reducing dots according to a reduction ratio, that is, a thinning method, a bilinear method, a bicubic method, or the like may be used.
[0099]
In this example, since the rotation angle described in the decoration pattern 61-1 of “decoration ID 1” is 0 degrees, the decoration image 74 is rotated by 0 degrees (not rotated).
[0100]
In addition, although the rotation method is not limited, For example, it is good to use affine transformation like the following Formula (1).
[0101]
[Expression 1]

[0102]
However, (x_New, y_New) indicates the coordinates of each pixel of the decoration image 74 after the rotation process, while (x, y) indicates the coordinates of each pixel of the decoration image 74 before the rotation process. Yes. Further, th indicates a rotation angle [Radian].
[0103]
Although the rotation angle to be set is not limited, for example, it may be set to a multiple of 90 [degrees]. In that case (when th is set to a multiple of 90 [degree] (π / 2 [Radian]), each element of the transformation matrix of the above formula (1) is either 1, 0, or −1. And the amount of calculation related to the rotation process can be reduced. That is, it is not necessary to increase the processing capacity of the CPU 31 more than necessary, and the manufacturer can reduce the cost of the main control device 19 of the image processing apparatus 1 (the main control apparatus on which the CPU 31 having a low processing capacity is mounted). 19 can be adopted).
[0104]
Further, in this example, the decoration pattern 61-1 of “decoration ID 1” indicates “color” and transparency “30%” (transparency 0% is opaque (the base is not transparent)). Therefore, the decorative image 74 is processed into a color image with a transparency of 30%.
[0105]
In step S <b> 16, the CPU 31 acquires one monitor image monitored by the CCD camera 14, extracts a user image from the acquired monitor image, extracts the extracted user image and a base image prepared in advance. Are combined to generate a first composite image.
[0106]
Further, the CPU 31 detects the contour of the extracted user image, and is set at a predetermined position on the detected contour of the user image by the process of step S13 and processed by the process of step S15. A decoration image is arranged, the arranged decoration image and the first composite image are combined to generate a second composite image, which is displayed on the display device 15 (display part 20).
[0107]
That is, in step S16, the CPU 31 generates a unique image (second composite image) in which a decorative image such as a panda or a bird is pasted on the contour (eg, hand or shoulder) of the user image. The display device 15 (display part 20) can be displayed.
[0108]
The processing in step S16 is referred to herein as “composite image generation processing / display processing”. Details of the “composite image generation process / display process” in this example are shown in FIG. Therefore, the “composite image generation process / display process” of this example will be described with reference to FIG.
[0109]
That is, in step S31, the CPU 31 acquires the time counted by the built-in timer 31a, and determines whether or not a predetermined sampling time has elapsed based on the acquired time. .
[0110]
If it is determined in step S31 that the predetermined sampling time has not elapsed, the process returns to step S31, and the CPU 31 determines again whether the predetermined sampling time has elapsed. That is, the CPU 31 waits for the processing until a predetermined sampling time elapses.
[0111]
If it is determined in step S31 that the predetermined sampling time has elapsed, in step S32, the CPU 31 acquires one monitor image within the photographing range monitored by the CCD camera 14 and stores it in the RAM 33. .
[0112]
In step S33, the CPU 31 extracts a user image from the acquired monitor images. Although this extraction method is not limited, in this example, for example, the user's image is extracted by the following method.
[0113]
That is, for example, if the color of the curtain 11 is blue, an image of a portion other than the user's image (hereinafter referred to as a background portion) of the acquired monitor image is a substantially blue solid image. Yes. Therefore, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the blue component is included in a predetermined level or more for each pixel data of the acquired monitor image. If it is determined that the blue component is included, the pixel is the background portion. On the other hand, if it is determined that the pixel is not included, the pixel is recognized as a user part.
[0114]
In step S <b> 34, the CPU 31 combines the user image extracted in this way with a preset background image to generate a first combined image.
[0115]
In this example, the background image is defined in the decoration style set in the process of step S13 in FIG. 3, that is, the decoration style table 61, and the image defined therein is adopted as the background image. Specifically, since the decoration pattern 61-1 of “decoration ID 1” is set, the background image “Fyab001.BMP” defined therein is used.
[0116]
Therefore, the CPU 31 synthesizes the base image (Fyab001.BMP) 72 and the user image 71 to generate a first composite image 73 as shown in FIG.
[0117]
In step S35, the boundary between the user image extracted in step S33 and the background image, that is, the contour of the user image is detected.
[0118]
In addition, any image of the user image 71 before the background image 72 is synthesized or the first synthesized image 73 may be used as an image based on detecting the contour of the user image. However, in this example, it is assumed that the first composite image is used.
[0119]
Although the detection method is not limited, in this example, for example, the CPU 31 sets a plurality of detection coordinates en serving as a reference for detecting the contour, and changes from the background portion to the user portion based on the detection coordinates en. A point (hereinafter referred to as contour point an) is detected.
[0120]
Further, in this example, one point corresponds to one pixel. That is, when the upper left end of the image is the origin (0, 0), the coordinates (x, y) are x dots from the upper left end (origin) of the image in the right direction (hereinafter referred to as the x direction), and The coordinates of the pixel located at a position separated by y dots in the downward direction (hereinafter referred to as the y direction) are used.
[0121]
Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6, the CPU 31 sets the starting point coordinates defined in the decoration pattern 61-1 of “decoration ID 1”, which is the decoration style set in the process of step S13 in FIG. (10, 0) is set as the first (first) detection coordinate e1, and from this first detection coordinate e1, the moving direction (x direction) defined in the decoration pattern 61-1 of “decoration ID 1” is set. ), The coordinate (110,0) moved by the moving step (100 dots) is set as the next (second) detected coordinate e2. The third and subsequent detection coordinates en are set in the same manner as the second detection coordinate e2.
[0122]
That is, the nth detection coordinate en is a step (100 dots) in which the n-1th coordinate en-1 is moved in the movement direction (x direction) defined in the decoration pattern 61-1 of “decoration ID 1”. The coordinates will be moved only.
[0123]
Accordingly, the first detected coordinate e1 is the start point coordinate (10, 0), the second detected coordinate e2 is the coordinate (110, 0), and the third detected coordinate e3 is the coordinate (210, 0). The fourth detection coordinate e4 is set to the coordinate (310, 0), and the fifth detection coordinate e5 is set to the coordinate (410, 0).
[0124]
Next, the CPU 31 updates the detection coordinates ek (k is one of 1 to 5) to be detected in the order of the set detection coordinates e1 to e5, and from the updated detection coordinates ek The pixel is scanned in the y direction (perpendicular to the moving direction (x direction)), the pixel that changes from the background portion pixel to the user portion pixel is detected, and this pixel is stored in the RAM 33 as the contour point ak.
[0125]
That is, the CPU 31 moves the detected coordinate ek from the previous detected coordinate ek-1 in the moving direction (x direction) by the moving distance (100 dots), and the contour point of the user image corresponding to each detected coordinate ek. Detect ak.
[0126]
Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6, contour points a1 (10, y1), contour points a2 (110, y2), contour points a3 (210, y3), contour points a4 are used as the contours of the user image. (310, y4) and contour point a5 (410, y5) are respectively detected.
[0127]
In this example, when the contour of the user's image is detected, the first composite image 73 is used as the basis. However, as described above, the user image (first image) before the base image 72 is composited. The image 61 having the same size as the composite image 73 of FIG. In that case, since the portion other than the user, that is, the background portion image in the base user image 71 is a black plain image, the CPU 31 can more easily detect the contour of the user image. . That is, the CPU 31 may detect a point (pixel) that changes from a black pixel (a pixel in which R, G, and B components are all 0) to a pixel of the user (a pixel that is not black).
[0128]
In step S36, the arrangement coordinates that are set in the process of step S13 of FIG. 3 and processed as a decoration image processed in the process of step S15, that is, the processed decoration image 74 are calculated.
[0129]
Although this calculation method is not limited, for example, one of the contour points a1 to a5 detected in the process of step S35 is selected as an arrangement coordinate, and the coordinate is calculated (in this example, however, Since the contour points a1 to a5 have already been calculated, they can simply be selected).
[0130]
In this example, the initial setting of the arrangement coordinates is the contour point a1, and thereafter, every time the process of step S36 is performed (every time the composite image generation / display process is performed), the arrangement coordinates to be selected are selected. The contour point an next to the previously selected contour point an-1 is selected.
[0131]
In step S <b> 37, the CPU 31 arranges the decoration image 74 at a position corresponding to the arrangement coordinates of the first composite image 73.
[0132]
For example, when the contour point a1 (10, y1) is selected as the arrangement coordinate, as shown in FIG. 7, in the decoration image 74, the x coordinate of the upper left point b1 is the arrangement coordinate (contour point a1). Is arranged on the first composite image 73 such that the y coordinate of the lower right point b2 coincides with the y coordinate (y1) of the arrangement coordinate (contour point a1). Is done.
[0133]
That is, since the size of the decoration image 74 is 50 dots in height and 40 dots in width, the coordinates of the point b1 are (10, y1-50) and the coordinates of the point b2 are in the decoration image 74. Is arranged on the first composite image 73 such that (50 (10 + 40), y1).
[0134]
In step S38, the CPU 31 combines the arranged decoration image 74 and the first composite image 73 to generate a second composite image 75 as shown in FIG. Only one image at the position arranged in the process) is generated and stored in the RAM 33, and is displayed on the display device 15 (display part 20) in step S39.
[0135]
Returning to FIG. 3, in step S <b> 17, the CPU 31 determines whether there is an instruction to confirm a print image (image to be printed by the printer 18).
[0136]
For example, in this example, in step S39 of FIG. 4 described above, the CPU 31 displays the second composite image 75 on the display device 15 (display part 20) and prompts the user to confirm the print image. A message (for example, a message such as “Pressing the OK button starts shooting”) is displayed.
[0137]
Therefore, when the user operates the input unit 16 in accordance with this message and a signal corresponding to the print image confirmation instruction is input to the CPU 31 (for example, when the user presses the OK button 16a), the CPU 31 Determines that there is an instruction to confirm the print image, and otherwise determines that there is no instruction to confirm the print image.
[0138]
If it is determined in step S17 that there is no print image confirmation instruction, the process returns to step S16, and the subsequent processing is repeated.
[0139]
That is, until it is determined in step S17 that a print image confirmation instruction has been issued (until the user presses the OK button 16a), the processing in step S16 (composite image generation / display processing) is repeated.
[0140]
Specifically, the CPU 31 acquires one user image monitored by the CCD camera 14 for each predetermined sampling, and generates a new first composite image 73 based on the acquired user image. Further, the arrangement coordinates of the decoration image 74 are recalculated, and the decoration image 74 arranged at the position corresponding to the recalculated arrangement coordinates and the newly generated first composite image 73 are synthesized. Then, a new second composite image 75 is generated and displayed.
[0141]
That is, the display device 15 (display part 20) displays a new second composite image 75 (updates the display) every predetermined sampling. Accordingly, the decoration image 74 follows the movement of the user in real time (with a predetermined sampling time) and the state is displayed, so that the user can obtain the desired composition (the desired second composite image 75). The print image can be confirmed at the time when is displayed.
[0142]
Furthermore, the arrangement coordinates selected (calculated) in step S36 in FIG. 4 are changed every time (each time step S16 processing (composite image generation / display processing) is performed). 74 is displayed as if it moves along the contour of the user image 71 as shown in FIG.
[0143]
Therefore, instead of the above-described decoration image 74, which is a single still image, for example, when an image group that constitutes an animation such as a panda running and falling is adopted as the decoration image, the CPU 31 performs each time (step S16). If the image of each frame is sequentially arranged on the first composite image 73 (every time the process (composite image generation / display process) is performed), the panda or the like looks like the user's contour (for example, An animation having a story characteristic such as running along the shoulders or hands) can be displayed on the display device 15 (display part 29).
[0144]
As described above, the image printing apparatus 1 can perform shooting with playability.
[0145]
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S17 that a print image confirmation instruction has been issued (when the user presses the OK button 16a), the CPU 31 receives a signal corresponding to the OK button 16a from the built-in timer 31a. The time at the time of input) is acquired, and the time is stored in the RAM 33 as a time measurement start time.
[0146]
In step S18, the CPU 31 acquires the time from the timer 31a at a predetermined interval, calculates the elapsed time by subtracting the time measurement start time from the acquired time, and this elapsed time is set to a predetermined value set in advance. By determining whether or not it is within the time, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed. At the same time, the CPU 31 calculates the remaining time up to a predetermined time (subtracts the elapsed time from the predetermined time) and displays it on the display device 15 (display part 20) (for example, “remaining time” m (m is the value to be counted down) ").
[0147]
If it is determined in step S18 that the predetermined time has not elapsed, the process returns to step S16, and the subsequent processing is repeated.
[0148]
If it is determined in step S18 that the predetermined time has elapsed, in step S19, the CPU 31 displays a message indicating that the predetermined time has elapsed (for example, a message such as “remaining time 0”) on the display device 15 (display part 20). ) And the second composite image 75 (now displayed on the display device 15 (display part 20)) generated in the process of step S16 immediately before is determined as a print image and is now determined A message that asks the user whether or not to print the print image (second composite image 75) (for example, “Is this OK? If this is OK, press the OK button. A message such as “NO button is pressed” is displayed on the display device 15 (display part 20).
[0149]
In accordance with the displayed message, the user operates the input unit 16 to select whether or not to print the print image (second composite image 75) that has been confirmed.
[0150]
For example, when a signal indicating that the print image that has been confirmed can be printed is input (for example, when the user presses the YES button 16a), and for a certain period of time (separate from the process of step S18). If no signal is input when the predetermined time has elapsed (when the user does not perform any operation), in step S20, the CPU 31 determines that there is no instruction to change the print image. .
[0151]
On the other hand, when a signal indicating that the second composite image that has been confirmed is not printed is input (for example, when the user presses the NO button 16b), in step S20, the CPU 31 instructs to change the print image. It is determined that there was.
[0152]
If it is determined in step S20 that there is an instruction to change the print image, the process returns to step S16, and the CPU 31 repeats the subsequent processing. That is, the user can re-pause and select the print image again.
[0153]
If it is determined in step S20 that there is no instruction to change the print image, in step S21, the printer 18 determines the print image (second composite image 75) determined in step S19 based on the control of the CPU 31. ) On the sticker sheet. The seal sheet printed by the printer 18 is discharged from the photo discharge port 21 and provided to the user.
[0154]
As described above, the user operates the input unit 16 after determining the pose (for example, presses the OK button 16a), and confirms the remaining time displayed on the display device 15 (display part 20), and then makes the final pose. Then, the user's image (second composite image 75) photographed in the final pose is determined as a print image and printed.
[0155]
As a result, the user can acquire an image photographed in a desired pose without using a remote controller device or the like for pressing the shutter, and the manufacturer can also acquire a remote controller device for pressing the shutter. Etc. can be eliminated, and the costs associated therewith can be reduced.
[0156]
In this example, the number of times the user is photographed is described as being one, that is, the pose of the user's image to be printed is limited to one pose. However, the number of times is not limited and may be a plurality of times. Good. In that case, for example, after the process of step S20 is ended, the CPU 31 determines whether or not the shooting for the number of shootings has been completed. The second composite image 75 (the user's photographed image) that has been made is stored in the RAM 33 as a print image, the process returns to step S16, and the subsequent processing may be repeated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the processing has been completed, a plurality of print images (second composite images 75 having different poses corresponding to the number of shooting times) stored in the RAM 33 are read out, and these are stored on a single sticker sheet, for example. May be arranged in this order, and printed by the printer 18.
[0157]
When the print image is printed (when the process of step S21 is completed), the CPU 31 determines whether or not the power switch 27 is turned off in step S22. The monitoring by the CCD camera 14 is terminated, the process returns to step S11, and the subsequent processing is repeated. That is, the CPU 31 waits for the processing until a coin is inserted by the next user.
[0158]
On the other hand, when it is determined in step S22 that the power switch 27 is turned off, the CPU 31 ends the process.
[0159]
By the way, the administrator of the image printing apparatus 1 replenishes the seal sheet by replacing it with a new seal paper unit 23 when the seal sheet loaded in the image printing apparatus 1 is almost gone. When refilling the sticker sheet, the CPU 31 of the image printing apparatus 1 checks whether the refilled sticker sheet is suitable for the image printing apparatus 1 by checking the ID tag 24 attached to the sticker sheet unit 23. Can be determined. Next, with reference to FIG. 8, the ID detection process of the sticker sheet (sticker paper 25) will be described.
[0160]
In step S101, the CPU 31 monitors whether or not the sticker paper unit 23 is attached at a predetermined position of the image printing apparatus 1. If the sticker paper unit 23 is attached, the process proceeds to step S102.
[0161]
In step S <b> 102, according to a command from the CPU 31, the ID tag reader / writer 26 reads the ID of the ID tag 24 attached to the sticker sheet unit 23 and transmits it to the CPU 31.
[0162]
In step S103, the CPU 31 collates the ID received from the ID tag reader / writer 26 in the process of step S102 with the sticker ID stored in advance in the ROM 32. If both IDs are the same, the process proceeds to step S104. The CPU 31 causes the display device 15 (display part 20) to display a message indicating that the image printing apparatus 1 is usable.
[0163]
In step S105, the CPU 31 returns the image printing apparatus 1 to a state in which normal photographing can be performed (the state in step S11 in FIG. 3).
[0164]
If the CPU 31 determines in step S103 that the ID received from the ID tag reader / writer 26 does not match the sticker ID stored in the ROM 22 in advance, the process proceeds to step S106, and the CPU 31 displays the display device 15 (display part). 20), a message indicating that the image printing apparatus 1 cannot be used (captured) cannot be displayed.
[0165]
In step S107, the CPU 31 sets the image printing apparatus 1 to be unusable (capturing is impossible). As the method, for example, it is possible to lower a shutter on the coin insertion slot 28 so that no coin is inserted from the coin insertion slot 28.
[0166]
In this embodiment, the ID tag 24 is attached to the sticker unit 23. However, as long as it is possible to identify the type of the sticker 25 loaded in the sticker unit 23, other types are possible. The sticker paper 25 may be identified by a method.
[0167]
For example, instead of the ID tag 24, the sticker unit 23 may be identified using a method such as a barcode or an IC card. In addition, the shape of the mounting portion of the sticker paper unit 23 to the image printing apparatus 1 is different for each model of the image printing apparatus 1 so that only a suitable sticker paper unit 23 can be attached to the image printing apparatus 1. Also good.
[0168]
Further, the sticker paper 25 and the sticker paper unit 23 can be configured to be separable, or can be configured integrally.
[0169]
(Second Embodiment)
FIG. 9 shows a configuration example of an image printing apparatus 81 to which the second embodiment of the present invention is applied, and portions corresponding to the image printing apparatus 1 of FIG.
[0170]
In this configuration example, a touch panel 16e stacked on the upper portion of the display part 20 is provided.
[0171]
That is, as described above, an image reflected by the half mirror 13 (an image displayed on the display device 15), for example, an image photographed by the CCD camera 14 and an edited image are superimposed on the display portion 20. Is displayed. Accordingly, while the user is inputting graffiti or the like, a photographed image with graffiti or the like is displayed on the display portion 20.
[0172]
The touch panel 16e detects an input from the stylus pen 16d. That is, the user selects a selection button or the like displayed on the display region 20 using the stylus pen 16d, or gives a graffiti on the captured image displayed on the display region 20 or the like. Input data from the stylus pen 16d is detected by the touch panel 16e and written to the main controller 19 as input data.
[0173]
Other configurations are the same as those in FIG.
[0174]
Although not shown, the internal structure of the image printing apparatus 81 is basically the same as the internal structure of the image printing apparatus 1 shown in FIG. In the following description, FIG. 2 is also referred to as an internal configuration of the image printing apparatus 81.
[0175]
Next, processing of the image printing apparatus 81 in FIG. 9 will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.
[0176]
In step S111, the CPU 31 of the main control device 19 determines whether or not a coin has been inserted based on whether or not the price processing unit 17 has detected a coin.
[0177]
If it is determined in step S111 that no coin has been inserted, the process returns to step S111, and the CPU 31 determines again whether or not a coin has been inserted. That is, the CPU 31 waits for the processing until coins are inserted.
[0178]
Now, assume that the user has inserted a predetermined amount of coins into the coin insertion slot 28.
[0179]
Therefore, in step S111, the CPU 31 determines that a coin has been inserted, and in step S112, the CCD camera 14 starts monitoring the space within the imaging range based on the control of the CPU 31.
[0180]
In step S113, the CPU 31 generates a first composite image.
[0181]
That is, for example, the CPU 31 displays various messages and the like on the display part 20 (display device 15) according to the progress of image print creation and print processing, and the input unit 16 (for example, an OK button) operated by the user. 16a, NO button 16b, etc.) is recognized, and the imaging procedure proceeds.
[0182]
In this example, when the shooting procedure proceeds, the OK button 16a, the NO button 16b, the joystick 16c, and the stylus pen 16d (touch panel 16e) are used, but only the stylus pen 16d (touch panel 16e) is used. You may be made to do. In this case, for example, the CPU 31 displays various selection buttons (soft buttons) on the display part 20 according to the progress of image print creation and printing processing, and allows the user to select the selection buttons displayed (stylus pen). The tip of 16d is placed on the displayed selection button) to recognize this and advance the photographing procedure.
[0183]
4, the CPU 31 acquires a monitor image at a predetermined sampling time, extracts a user image from the monitor image, and extracts the extracted monitor image and the background image selected by the user. Are combined to generate a first composite image.
[0184]
In step S <b> 114, the CPU 31 determines whether there is an instruction to confirm the print image (image to be printed by the printer 18).
[0185]
For example, in this example, in step S113, the CPU 31 displays a first composite image on the display portion 20 and prompts the user to confirm the print image (for example, when the “OK button is pressed, Message to start shooting "is displayed.
[0186]
Therefore, when the user operates the input unit 16 in accordance with this message and a signal corresponding to the print image confirmation instruction is input to the CPU 31 (for example, when the user presses the OK button 16a), the CPU 31 Determines that there is an instruction to confirm the print image, and otherwise determines that there is no instruction to confirm the print image.
[0187]
If it is determined in step S114 that there is no print image confirmation instruction, the process returns to step S113, and the subsequent processing is repeated.
[0188]
That is, the process of step S113 is repeated until it is determined in step S114 that a print image confirmation instruction has been issued (until the user presses the OK button 16a).
[0189]
Specifically, the CPU 31 acquires one user image monitored by the CCD camera 14 for each predetermined sampling, and generates a new first composite image based on the acquired user image. To be displayed on the display part 20.
[0190]
That is, the display part 20 displays a new first composite image (updates the display) every predetermined sampling. Therefore, the user can determine the print image when the desired composition is obtained (when the desired first composite image is displayed).
[0191]
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S114 that there is an instruction to confirm the print image (when the user presses the OK button 16a), the CPU 31 receives a signal corresponding to the OK button 16a from the built-in timer 31a. The time at the time of input) is acquired, and the time is stored in the RAM 33 as a time measurement start time.
[0192]
In step S115, the CPU 31 acquires time at a predetermined interval from the timer 31a, calculates the elapsed time by subtracting the timing start time from the acquired time, and this elapsed time is set to a predetermined value set in advance. By determining whether or not it is within the time, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed. At the same time, the CPU 31 calculates the remaining time up to a predetermined time (subtracts the elapsed time from the predetermined time) and displays it on the display part 20 (for example, “remaining time m (m is Display a message such as "Countdown value").
[0193]
If it is determined in step S115 that the predetermined time has not elapsed, the process returns to step S113 and the subsequent processing is repeated.
[0194]
When it is determined in step S115 that the predetermined time has elapsed, in step S116, the CPU 31 displays a message indicating that the predetermined time has elapsed (for example, a message such as “remaining time 0”) on the display part 20, The first composite image generated in the process of the immediately preceding step S113 (now displayed on the display part 20) is confirmed as a print image, and the print image (first composite image) just confirmed is printed. A message that asks the user whether or not to do so (for example, a message such as “This is OK? Press OK button if this is OK. Press NO button to start again”) 20 is displayed.
[0195]
In accordance with the displayed message, the user operates the input unit 16 to select whether or not to print the print image (first synthesized image) that has been confirmed.
[0196]
For example, when a signal indicating that the print image that has been confirmed can be printed is input (for example, when the user presses the YES button 16a), and for a certain period of time (separate from the process of step S115) If no signal is input when the predetermined time has elapsed (when the user does not perform any operation), in step S117, the CPU 31 determines that there is no instruction to change the print image. .
[0197]
On the other hand, when a signal indicating that the second composite image that has been confirmed is not printed is input (for example, when the user presses the NO button 16b), in step S117, the CPU 31 instructs to change the print image. It is determined that there was.
[0198]
If it is determined in step S117 that there is an instruction to change the print image, the process returns to step S113, and the CPU 31 repeats the subsequent processing. That is, the user can re-pause and select the print image again.
[0199]
If it is determined in step S117 that there has been no instruction to change the print image, in step S118, the user is caused to perform a graffiti on the print image (first composite image) that has been confirmed.
[0200]
The process in step S118 is referred to herein as “graffiti process”.
Details of the “graffiti process” in this example are shown in FIG. The “graffiti process” in this example will be described with reference to FIG.
[0201]
In the above description, the number of times the user is photographed is described as being one, that is, the pose of the user's image to be printed is limited to one pose. .
[0202]
For example, if the number of times that the user is photographed is 3, the first composite image (first pose image) for the first time is determined as the print image in step S116 in FIG. The pause image is stored in the RAM 33 and displayed in the area of the selected image 81a in FIG. Thereafter, Steps S113 to S117 are repeated again, and this time the second first composite image (second pose image) is stored in the RAM 33 and displayed in the area of the selected image 81b. Similarly, the third first composite image (third pose image) is stored in the RAM 33 and displayed in the area of the selected image 81c.
[0203]
Therefore, the user operates the stylus pen 16d to select an image (edited image) to be graffiti among the images displayed in the areas of the selected images 81a to 81c.
[0204]
For example, when the first composite image 73 of FIG. 6 is displayed in the area of the selected image 81a and the user selects it, in step S131, the CPU 31 determines that the tip of the stylus pen 16d is the selected image 81a. Recognizing that the image is arranged in the area, the image (first composite image 73) displayed in the area of the selected image 81a is determined as the edited image 85, and as shown in FIG. (The panda decoration image 74 is not displayed at this time).
[0205]
In step S132, the CPU 31 acquires the time at that time (the time when step S131 is completed) from the built-in timer 31a, and stores the time in the RAM 33 as the time measurement start time. Then, the CPU 31 obtains time at a predetermined interval from the timer 31a, calculates the elapsed time by subtracting the timing start time from the obtained time, and whether this elapsed time is within a preset time limit. By determining whether or not, it is determined whether or not the time limit has elapsed.
[0206]
At the same time as in step S18, the CPU 31 may calculate the remaining time up to a predetermined time (subtract the elapsed time from the predetermined time) and display it on the display part 20. (For example, a message such as “remaining time m (m is a value counted down)” may be displayed).
[0207]
If it is determined in step S132 that the time limit has elapsed, the CPU 31 ends the graffiti process and proceeds to the next step, that is, step S119 in FIG.
[0208]
If it is determined in step S132 that the time limit has not elapsed, in step S133, the CPU 31 determines whether or not a contour stamp has been selected.
[0209]
That is, the user places the stylus pen 16d (touch panel 16e) on the desired stamp type area among the background stamp 82a, foreground stamp 82b, and contour stamp 82c areas shown in FIG. Select the type of stamp to use.
[0210]
In this example, for example, the above-described decoration image is arranged at a predetermined position of the edited image 85 (first composite image 73) and displayed (stamped) is simply referred to as a stamp. Yes.
[0211]
The background stamp 82a is a stamp that does not display a portion overlapping the user image when a part (or all) of the decoration image is arranged on the user image. In this case, the contour of the user is detected by the same processing as step S35 in FIG. 4, and it is determined whether or not the decoration image overlaps the user's image based on the detected contour of the user. .
[0212]
The foreground stamp 82b is a stamp arranged so that the decoration image is in the forefront (before the other screens such as the user image and the background image), that is, a stamp on which all the decoration images are displayed.
[0213]
As described above (as described in the first embodiment), the contour stamp 82c is detected by a process similar to step S35 in FIG. 4 and the user's contour is detected on the detected user contour. A stamp on which a decorative image is arranged and displayed.
[0214]
When the background stamp 82a and the foreground stamp 82b are selected or when other graffiti processing such as text insertion is selected (not shown), in step S133, the CPU 31 selects the contour stamp. In step S134, graffiti processing other than the currently selected contour stamp is executed, the process returns to step S132, and the subsequent processing is repeated.
[0215]
On the other hand, when the contour stamp 82c is selected by the user in step S133, the CPU 31 recognizes it and determines that the contour stamp has been selected, and in the same way as the processing in step S35 of FIG. The user's outline is detected from the edited image 85 displayed on the screen, and the detected outline 71a of the user is blinked.
[0216]
If it is determined in step S135 that the time limit has elapsed, the CPU 31 ends the graffiti process and proceeds to the next step, that is, step S119 in FIG.
[0217]
If it is determined in step S135 that the time limit has not elapsed, in step S136, the CPU 31 determines whether a decoration image (item) has been selected.
[0218]
That is, if it is determined in step S133 that the contour stamp 82c has been selected, the decorative image corresponding to the contour stamp 82c is displayed in the area of the item 83 as shown in FIG. That is, for example, if three predetermined images are stored in the ROM 32 or the like as decoration images corresponding to the contour stamp 82c, the CPU 31 reads out these images and displays them in the areas of the items 83a to 83c, respectively.
[0219]
Now, for example, if the panda decoration image 74 is displayed in the area of the item 83a and the user selects it with the stylus pen 16d, the CPU 31 determines in step S136 that the tip of the stylus pen 16d is the area of the item 83a. It is determined that a decoration image (item) to be stamped (arranged in the edited image 85) has been selected. That is, the CPU 31 determines the image (panda decoration image 74) displayed in the area of the item 83a as the decoration image to be stamped from now.
[0220]
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S136 that no decoration image (item) has been selected, the process returns to step S135, and the CPU 31 repeats the subsequent processing. That is, the CPU 31 waits for the process until a decoration image is selected or until the time limit has elapsed.
[0221]
When the decoration image is selected (YES in the process of step S136), in step S137, similarly to the processes of steps S36 to S38 in FIG. And the decoration image 74 is arranged at a position corresponding to the arrangement coordinates of the first composite image 73, and the arranged decoration image 74 and the edited image 85 (first composite image 73) are combined. Then, a second composite image 75 as shown in FIG. 7 (however, the decoration image 74 is only one image arranged at the position corresponding to the calculated arrangement coordinates) is stored in the RAM 33. In step S138, it is displayed in the center of the display area 20 (the area where the edited image 85 was displayed).
[0222]
In step S139, the CPU 31 recognizes whether or not the user has selected the confirm button 84, that is, recognizes whether or not the tip of the stylus pen 16d is disposed on the confirm button 84, thereby arranging the decoration image 74. It is determined whether or not the position is fixed.
[0223]
If it is determined in step S139 that the arrangement position of the decoration image 74 has not been determined, the process returns to step S135, and the subsequent processing is repeated.
[0224]
That is, for example, as described above (similar to the first embodiment), the arrangement coordinates selected (calculated) in the process of step S137 are changed every time (each time the process of step S137 is performed). Then, during the graffiti process (until the user selects the confirmation button 84), the decoration image 74 is as if it moves along the contour line 71a of the user image 71 as shown in FIG. Is displayed.
[0225]
If it is determined in step S139 that the arrangement position of the decoration image 74 has been determined, the CPU 31 ends the graffiti process, and proceeds to the next step, that is, step S119 in FIG.
[0226]
Returning to FIG. 10, in step S <b> 119, the printer 18 performs a graffiti process (the process of step S <b> 118) on the basis of the control of the CPU 31 (the image currently displayed at the center of the display part 20). On the sticker sheet. The seal sheet printed by the printer 18 is discharged from the photo discharge port 21 and provided to the user.
[0227]
When the print image is printed (when the process of step S119 ends), the CPU 31 determines whether or not the power switch 27 is turned off in step S120. If it is determined that the power switch 27 is not turned off, the CPU 31 performs step S121. The monitoring by the CCD camera 14 is terminated, the process returns to step S111, and the subsequent processing is repeated. That is, the CPU 31 waits for the processing until a coin is inserted by the next user.
[0228]
On the other hand, when it is determined in step S120 that the power switch 27 is turned off, the CPU 31 ends the process.
[0229]
A program for executing the series of processes described above is installed from a network or a recording medium. As shown in FIG. 2, this recording medium is distributed to provide a program to the owner of the image printing apparatus 1 separately from the apparatus main body, and stores a program to be attached to the drive 39. Magnetic disk 51 (including floppy disk), optical disk 52 (including CD-ROM (compact disk-read only memory), DVD (digital versatile disk)), magneto-optical disk 53 (including MD (mini-disk)), Alternatively, it is not only constituted by a package medium composed of a semiconductor memory 54 or the like, but is also provided to a user in a state of being pre-installed in the apparatus main body by a ROM 32 on which a program is recorded, a hard disk included in the storage unit 37, Composed.
[0230]
In the present specification, the step of describing the program recorded on the recording medium is not limited to the processing performed in chronological order according to the described order, but is not necessarily performed in chronological order. It also includes processes that are executed individually.
[0231]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the image printing apparatus, method, and program of the present invention, the user image is extracted from the captured images and is set in advance with the extracted user image. A first base image is generated by combining the predetermined background image. Further, the contour of the extracted user image is detected, and a predetermined decoration image set in advance is set at a predetermined position on the contour of the detected user image in the generated first composite image. Deploy. Since the second combined image is generated by combining the arranged decoration image and the generated first combined image and printed, it is possible to shoot with playfulness and rich in individuality. Images can be provided easily.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an arrangement of a configuration example of an image printing apparatus to which a first embodiment of the present invention is applied.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an internal configuration example of the image printing apparatus in FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 is a flowchart for explaining processing of the image printing apparatus in FIG. 1;
FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating details of a composite image generation / display process in step S16 of FIG.
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a decoration style table used in the image printing apparatus of FIG. 1;
6 is a diagram illustrating a first composite image example generated by the image printing apparatus of FIG. 1. FIG.
7 is a diagram illustrating a second composite image example generated by the image printing apparatus of FIG. 1. FIG.
8 is a flowchart illustrating ID detection processing of the image printing apparatus of FIG. 1 in which a print medium unit to which the present invention is applied is mounted.
FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an arrangement of a configuration example of an image printing apparatus to which a second embodiment of the present invention is applied.
10 is a flowchart for explaining processing of the image printing apparatus in FIG. 9;
FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating details of a graffiti process in step S118 of FIG.
12 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the display part in the graffiti process in step S118 of FIG.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 image printing device,
14 CCD camera,
15 display device,
16 input section,
18 printer,
19 Main controller,
20 display area,
23 Sticker paper unit,
24 ID tag,
25 sticker paper,
26 ID tag reader / writer,
31 CPU
32 ROM,
33 RAM,
37 storage unit,
39 drives,
61 decoration style table,
71 user images,
72 background image,
73 the first composite image,
74 decorative images,
75 second composite image,
an contour point

Claims (15)

Photographing means for photographing the user;
Extracting means for extracting the image of the user from among the images within the photographing range photographed by the photographing means;
Detecting means for detecting a contour of the image of the user extracted by the extracting means;
Arrangement means for arranging a predetermined decoration image set in advance at a predetermined position on the contour of the image of the user detected by the detection means;
Printing means for printing the composite image after a composite image of the decoration image arranged by the arrangement means and an image within the photographing range photographed by the photographing means is displayed on a predetermined display device ;
A confirmation means for instructing confirmation of a composite image to be printed out of the displayed composite images ,
From the plurality of decoration images, set the predetermined decoration image arranged by the arrangement means,
As an element of decoration style set the predetermined decoration image, set the moving direction and moving distance of the detection coordinate to detect the predetermined position on the contour of the image before Symbol user,
When a new image of the user is extracted by the extraction unit, the contour of the user image is extracted by the detection unit, and an intersection of a straight line drawn vertically from the detection coordinates and the contour of the user image When the composite image is displayed as the predetermined position on the contour of the image of the user, and then the composite image to be printed is not instructed by the determining means, the detected coordinates are used as the elements of the decoration style. And repeating the process of sequentially updating the predetermined position on the contour of the user's image by moving it by a predetermined distance in the horizontal direction according to the set moving direction and moving distance. Image printing device. The image printing apparatus further includes:
A first synthesized image is generated by synthesizing the user image extracted by the extracting unit and a predetermined background image set in advance,
Combining the generated first composite image and the preset decoration image to generate a second composite image;
The arrangement means arranges the decoration image at the predetermined position on the contour of the user image in the first composite image,
The image printing device generates the second composite image by combining the first composite image and the decoration image arranged by the arrangement unit,
The image printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the printing unit prints the generated second composite image. The arrangement unit arranges the predetermined decoration image based on the predetermined position that is updated each time a new image of the user is extracted by the extraction unit. The image printing apparatus described in 1. Display means for displaying an image;
First display control means for displaying the second composite image on the display means;
When it is determined that the predetermined condition is satisfied, immediately before or after the determination, the second composite image displayed on the display unit by the first display control unit is printed by the printing unit. And a confirmation means for confirming as
The photographing means continuously photographs the user until the print image is confirmed by the confirmation means, the extraction means extracts the user image at a predetermined sampling time, and the first image The display control means updates the display of the display means to the newly generated second composite image every time a new image of the user is extracted by the extraction means. 4. The image printing apparatus according to 3. A confirmation signal input means for inputting a signal to confirm the print image;
When the signal is input by the deterministic signal force means, time measuring means for starting time measurement,
A second display for calculating a remaining time until a predetermined time set in advance based on the time measured by the time measuring means and displaying the calculated remaining time until the predetermined time on the display means; And a control means,
The image printing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the determining unit determines that the predetermined condition is satisfied when the predetermined time is measured by the time measuring unit. Storage means for storing the plurality of decorative images that can be arranged by the arrangement means;
Processing means for processing the set predetermined decoration image based on the set decoration style; and
The image printing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the arrangement unit arranges the predetermined decoration image processed by the processing unit. The image printing apparatus may include at least one of a plurality of elements including at least the number of decoration images arranged, the size, the rotation angle, and the transparency in addition to the movement direction and the movement distance as elements of the decoration style. The image printing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein one is set. The image printing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the image printing apparatus sets a multiple of 90 degrees as the rotation angle of the decoration image. The storage means further stores a plurality of the decoration styles,
Sample display control means for displaying the plurality of decoration images and the plurality of decoration styles stored in the storage means as samples on the display means;
Selection of inputting the decoration image selected by the user and a signal corresponding to the decoration style among the plurality of decoration images and the plurality of decoration style samples displayed on the display means by the sample display control means. And a signal input means,
The image printing apparatus sets the predetermined decoration image arranged by the arrangement unit based on the signal input by the selection signal input unit, and the decoration style of the set predetermined decoration image The image printing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the image printing apparatus is set. The decorative image is an image group,
The arrangement unit arranges one image selected according to a predetermined rule from the predetermined group of images at the predetermined position on the contour of the image of the user. The image printing apparatus according to any one of 9. A print medium on which the second composite image is printed by the printing means, and reading means for reading identification information for identifying the mounted print medium;
The image printing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a print control unit that controls printing on the print medium based on a result of reading by the reading unit. The image printing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the print medium is a seal. 13. The image printing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the printing medium on which the second composite image is printed by the printing unit is stored, and the identification information read by the reading unit is held. Print media unit used by. An image printing method of an image printing apparatus,
A shooting step for shooting the user;
An extraction step for extracting the user's image out of the images within the photographing range photographed by the photographing step;
A detection step of detecting a contour of the image of the user extracted by the processing of the extraction step;
An arrangement step of arranging a predetermined decoration image set in advance at a predetermined position on the contour of the image of the user detected by the processing of the detection step;
Printing that prints the composite image after a composite image of the decoration image arranged by the processing of the placement step and the image within the photographing range photographed by the processing of the photographing step is displayed on a predetermined display device Steps ,
A confirmation step for instructing confirmation of a composite image to be printed out of the displayed composite images;
A plurality of decoration image, and setting the predetermined decoration image to be arranged by the process of the placement step, as an element of the decor of the set predetermined decoration image, the predetermined on the contour of the image before SL user A setting step for setting a moving direction and a moving distance of a detection coordinate serving as a reference for detecting the position of
When a new image of the user is extracted by the process of the extraction step, an outline of the user image is extracted by the process of the detection step, and a straight line drawn vertically from the detection coordinates and the image of the user are extracted. When the composite image is displayed with the intersection point with the contour as the predetermined position on the contour of the image of the user, and when the confirmation instruction of the composite image to be printed is not issued by the processing of the confirmation step, the detected coordinates A process of sequentially updating the predetermined position on the contour of the user image by moving a predetermined distance in the horizontal direction according to the moving direction and the moving distance set as elements of the decoration style An image printing method comprising: an update step of repeating A program to be executed by a computer that controls an image printing apparatus,
A shooting step for shooting the user;
An extraction step for extracting the user's image out of the images within the photographing range photographed by the photographing step;
A detection step of detecting a contour of the image of the user extracted by the processing of the extraction step;
An arrangement step of arranging a predetermined decoration image set in advance at a predetermined position on the contour of the image of the user detected by the processing of the detection step;
Printing that prints the composite image after a composite image of the decoration image arranged by the processing of the placement step and the image within the photographing range photographed by the processing of the photographing step is displayed on a predetermined display device Steps ,
A confirmation step for instructing confirmation of a composite image to be printed out of the displayed composite images;
A plurality of decoration image, and setting the predetermined decoration image to be arranged by the process of the placement step, as an element of the decor of the set predetermined decoration image, the predetermined on the contour of the image before SL user A setting step for setting a moving direction and a moving distance of a detection coordinate serving as a reference for detecting the position of
When a new image of the user is extracted by the process of the extraction step, the contour of the user image is extracted by the process of the detection step, and a straight line drawn vertically from the detection coordinates and the image of the user are extracted. When the composite image is displayed with the intersection point with the contour as the predetermined position on the contour of the user's image, and when the confirmation instruction of the composite image to be printed is not made by the processing of the confirmation step, the detected coordinates A process of sequentially updating the predetermined position on the contour of the user image by moving a predetermined distance in the horizontal direction according to the moving direction and the moving distance set as elements of the decoration style A program that causes a computer to execute a control process that includes an update step that repeats .

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