JP4770662B2 - Photo sticker creation apparatus and method, and program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for creating a photo sticker, and a program, and more particularly, to an apparatus and method for making a photo sticker that can improve user satisfaction and improve profitability by improving entertainment. , As well as programs.

  Conventionally, a user (subject) is photographed, and the obtained subject image is edited with a pre-prepared frame image, stamp image, or handwritten line image graffiti input image, and printed on sticker paper. A photo seal machine provided to a user as a photo seal is known.

  This photo sticker is installed in, for example, an entertainment (game) facility such as a game center, and provides services to users such as female high school students and female junior high school students for a fee. The user not only enjoys creating photo stickers as a game, but also shares the output photo stickers with each other and pastes them on their belongings. Paste it on the album and hold it like an album.

  The game for creating a photo sticker is performed by shooting a subject, editing a graffiti on the shot image, and outputting the edited image to a photo sticker. The user plays this series of processes within the time limit, and receives a photo sticker created as a product. Therefore, in order to improve user satisfaction, it is important to improve the fun of the photo sticker creation work as well as to improve the quality of the photo sticker. Based on such a viewpoint, not only is the work amusement high, but also the appearance of the image printed on the sticker paper is improved, so that many photo stickers having various editing functions have been developed.

  For example, a photo sticker (for example, see Patent Document 1) that can make a variety of graffiti (editing) on a photographed image so that it looks like a makeup image, or an original stamp that can be used for editing can be made. For this purpose, a photographic seal machine (see, for example, Patent Document 2) that can process a photographed image to make a stamp of an image of a subject has been developed.

  By the way, in recent years, image processing techniques have been improved, and various image processing apparatuses have been developed. For example, an original image taken with a digital camera or the like is converted into image data, a large number of image data is stored on a server or a storage medium, and the image data is easily taken in and out, viewed on a personal computer or digital camera, and like an album There is an electronic image album apparatus that can arrange images (see, for example, Patent Document 3 and Patent Document 4). Such images can also be printed by connecting the electronic image album device to a printer.

JP 2000-69404 A Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2005-79662 Patent 3122900 Japanese Patent No. 2771563

  However, the above-described photo sticker is a so-called game machine, and further enhancement of functions is always required from users who play games.

  In a conventional photo sticker including the devices described in Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2, a plurality of shots are taken and a plurality of shot images are obtained, but graffiti editing is performed individually and printed on a photo sticker. In this case, the plurality of photographed images are only printed with no gaps. That is, in the conventional photo sticker, each photographed image is only processed independently of each other.

  Note that Patent Document 2 describes a method of creating an original stamp image, but the created stamp image is only used as a stamp tool for editing, and is used for normal shooting for graffiti editing. It was supposed to be different in usage and purpose from the image.

  A method of freely arranging and displaying a plurality of images in one display area is described in Patent Document 3 and Patent Document 4, but is a method applied to the above-described game for creating a photo sticker of a photo sticker. Is not disclosed, and it is unclear how to use such an image display function during the game.

  The present invention has been made in view of such a situation, and by using a combination of a plurality of captured images and edited images, it is possible to perform graffiti editing and printing on a photo sticker, It is intended to improve entertainment, improve user satisfaction, and improve profitability.

According to an aspect of the present invention, a user is photographed as a subject, the user performs graffiti editing input on the obtained image, the image is printed on a predetermined sticker sheet, and a photo sticker is created. A photograph sticker creating apparatus for providing the photograph sticker to the user as a photographing means for photographing the user as a subject, and photographing obtained by photographing by the photographing means based on an input of the user A first editing unit that performs graffiti editing on an image; a combination image selection unit that selects, as a combined image, the photographed image or an edited image that has been subjected to graffiti editing by the first editing unit; and the combination A plurality of the combined images selected by the image selection means are arranged and synthesized in a predetermined area in an arbitrary position, size, angle, and overlapping order, A composite image creating means for creating a composite image; a second editing means for performing graffiti editing on the composite image created by the composite image creating means based on an input of the user; and at least the second Printing means for printing the edited composite image that has been subjected to graffiti editing by the editing means on the sticker sheet, address input accepting means for accepting input of an e-mail address of an image transmission destination by the user, and image to be transmitted Transmission image selection means for allowing the user to select the image, and image transmission means for transmitting the image selected by the transmission image selection means to the transmission destination from which the e-mail address has been received by the address input reception means. If the predetermined condition is satisfied, the time limit for inputting the e-mail address by the address input receiving means is extended. A photo sticker creating apparatus and a time extension control means for.

In this photo sticker creating apparatus, the photographing means is composed of, for example, a photographing processing section, the first editing means is composed of, for example, a graffiti editing section, and the combined image selecting means is composed of, for example, a combined image selecting section. is, the composite image creation means, for example, is constituted by a combination pre-creation unit, the second editing means, for example, is constituted by a combination pre-graffiti editing unit, the printing unit comprises, for example, a print processing unit, the address For example, the input receiving unit includes a transmission address input unit, the transmission image selection unit includes, for example, a transmission image selection unit, the image transmission unit includes, for example, an image transmission unit, and the time extension control unit includes For example, it is comprised by the time extension control part.

In the photo sticker creating apparatus of the present invention, the user is photographed as a subject, and the graffiti editing is performed on the photographed image based on the user input, and the photographed image or the edited image is selected as the combination image. A plurality of selected combination images are arranged and synthesized in a predetermined area in an arbitrary position, size, angle, and overlapping order, and a single composite image is created, based on user input. Te, is performed graffiti editing of the composite image, at least, the graffiti is edited composite image made printed on the seal seat, by a user, the input of the e-mail address of the transmission destination of the image is accepted, transmit If the selected image is sent to the destination where the user selects the image to be sent and the e-mail address is accepted, The time limit of the input of the e-mail address is extended.

  The combination image is an image for creating a combination pre.

  The combination pre is an image that is used as an image to be edited, which is a target of graffiti editing, in the same manner as a photographed image obtained by a photograph work of a photograph sticker creating game played in the photograph sticker creating apparatus. In this combination pre, a plurality of combination images are arranged in a predetermined region in an arbitrary position, size, angle, and overlapping order (that is, arranged in an arbitrary layout) and synthesized (combined). It is an interesting image to be created.

  The combination image is an image selected by the user or the like as an image to be arranged (combined) in the region when the combination pre is created. The user can use as a combined image from the photographed image, the edited image reflecting the graffiti editing performed on the photographed image, and the combination pre created previously. Select the image to be used.

  Therefore, the photo sticker creating apparatus can use a combination of a plurality of photographed images and edited images to perform graffiti editing and printing on the photo sticker. Thereby, an interesting image according to a user's preference can be created. Furthermore, since the user can further perform graffiti editing on the entire combination pre-generated by combining the edited images, it is possible to perform more graffiti editing. In other words, the photo sticker creating apparatus can improve entertainment, improve user satisfaction, and improve profitability.

  A type selection unit that prepares a plurality of candidates for the type, position, size, angle, and overlapping order of the combination image in the predetermined region in advance, and allows the user to select one of the candidates. The composite image creating means can synthesize the plurality of combination images selected by the combination image selection means based on the type selected by the type selection means.

  The mold selection means is constituted by, for example, a pattern selection unit. Thereby, the user can easily determine the layout of the combined image, and can easily create a composite image (combined pre).

  The image processing apparatus may further include setting means for allowing the user to arbitrarily set a position, a size, an angle, and an overlapping order of the combined image in the composite image created by the composite image creation means.

  The setting means is constituted by a layout setting unit, for example. Since the user can freely arrange the combination images and can create a combination pre suitable for the user's own preference, the user's satisfaction with editing can be improved.

  The synthesized image creating means can synthesize the photographed image as the combined image before the graffiti editing by the first editing means is started.

  As a result, a photographed image that has not been edited can be used as a combined image, and the number of times of editing the graffiti on the combined image of a plurality of frames may be one, so that an interesting edited image can be obtained in a short time. Can be created.

  The composite image creating unit can synthesize the photographed image or the edited image as the combination image during the graffiti editing by the first editing unit.

  As a result, both the photographed image or the edited image obtained by editing the photographed image can be used as the combined image, and the user can create an edited image of a rich variety. Can do. Also, since two images are displayed at the same time on the graffiti editing input screen, for example, while one user is creating a combination pre, the other user can perform graffiti editing of the captured image. Is also possible.

  The composite image creating means can synthesize the edited image as the combined image after the graffiti editing has been completed for all the photographed images that can be graffiti edited by the first editing means.

  As a result, the user can edit each of a plurality of captured images, create a single-frame edited image by combining the edited images, and perform further editing operations on the edited image. You can enjoy as much as you want.

  When the edited composite image that has been subjected to graffiti editing by the second editing unit is selected by the transmission image selection unit, the image transmission unit includes the edited composite image together with the edited composite image. A plurality of the combined images used for creation can also be transmitted.

  In this way, the user can transfer all the combination images used for the combination pre to a desired terminal, and can comprehensively refer to the combination pre images and enjoy more variously. Can be able to.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a user is photographed as a subject, the user performs graffiti editing input on the obtained image, the image is printed on a predetermined sticker sheet, and a photo sticker is created. A photo sticker creating method of a photo sticker creating device for providing the user with the photo sticker as an object, the photographing step for photographing the user as a subject, and the photographing step based on the input of the user A first editing step for performing graffiti editing on a photographed image obtained by photographing processing, and the photographed image or an edited image subjected to graffiti editing by the processing of the first editing step is selected as a combination image. A combination image selection step to be performed and a plurality of the combination images selected by the processing of the combination image selection step. A composite image creating step for creating a single composite image by arranging and composing in an arbitrary position, size, angle, and overlapping order, and processing of the composite image creating step based on the input of the user A second editing step for performing graffiti editing on the composite image created by the step, and a printing step for printing on the sticker sheet the edited composite image that has been subjected to graffiti editing by at least the processing of the second editing step. And an address input receiving step for receiving an input of an e-mail address of an image transmission destination by the user, a transmission image selecting step for causing the user to select an image to be transmitted, and a process of the address input receiving step. The transmission address for which the e-mail address is accepted is selected by the process of the transmission image selection step An image transmission step of transmitting the image, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, a photo sticker creation method and a time extension control step of extending the time limit of the input of the e-mail address in the process at the address input accepting step.

In the photo sticker creation method of the present invention, the user is photographed as a subject, and the graffiti editing is performed on the photographed image based on the user's input, and the photographed image or the edited image is selected as the combination image. A plurality of selected combination images are arranged and synthesized in a predetermined area in an arbitrary position, size, angle, and overlapping order, and a single composite image is created, based on user input. Te, is performed graffiti editing of the composite image, at least, the graffiti is edited composite image made printed on the seal seat, by a user, the input of the e-mail address of the transmission destination of the image is accepted, transmit If the selected image is sent to the destination where the user selects the image to be sent and the e-mail address is accepted, The time limit of the input of the e-mail address is extended.
According to another aspect of the present invention, a user is photographed as a subject, the user performs graffiti editing input on the obtained image, the image is printed on a predetermined sticker sheet, and a photo sticker is created. An apparatus for creating a photo sticker that provides the user with the photo sticker as a deliverable, obtained by taking an image of the user as a subject, and taking an image of the image taking unit based on an input from the user Editing means for performing graffiti editing on the photographed image, printing means for printing the edited image on which the graffiti editing has been performed by the editing means on the sticker sheet, and an e-mail address of the image transmission destination by the user Address input receiving means for receiving input, transmission image selection means for allowing the user to select an image to be transmitted, and the e-mail address by the address input receiving means. An image transmission unit that transmits the image selected by the transmission image selection unit to the transmission destination that has received the request, and an input of the e-mail address by the address input reception unit when a predetermined condition is satisfied. It is a photographic sticker creating apparatus comprising time extension control means for extending the time limit.
In the photo sticker creating apparatus of the present invention, a user is photographed as a subject, and based on the user's input, a graffiti edit is performed on the photographed image obtained by photographing, and an edited image on which the graffiti edit has been performed is performed. Printed on the sticker sheet, the user receives the input of the email address of the image destination, the image to be sent is selected by the user, and is selected for the email address accepted as the destination When the received image is transmitted and the predetermined condition is satisfied, the time limit for inputting the e-mail address is extended.

  The program of the present invention is recorded on a predetermined recording medium, read by a drive, for example, and installed in the image printing apparatus. Recording media include magnetic disks such as floppy (registered trademark) disks, optical disks including CD-ROM (Compact Disk Read Only Memory), DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disk), MD (Mini Disk) (registered trademark), etc. And a removable medium such as a semiconductor memory.

  According to the present invention, the profitability of the photo sticker creating apparatus can be improved. In particular, profitability can be improved by improving the entertainment of the photo sticker creation play and improving the user satisfaction.

  Hereinafter, specific embodiments to which the present invention is applied will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of an embodiment of a photo sticker creating apparatus to which the present invention is applied.

  The photo sticker creating apparatus 1 shown in FIG. 1 enhances the amusement of work such as shooting and editing, allows the user to perform such work as a game (play service), and takes the shot / edited images as photo stickers. It is a game device (play service providing device) that receives money from the user instead of providing it to the user as data.

  In the photo sticker creating game executed by the photo sticker creating apparatus 1, the user inputs the price of the game, takes a picture of himself / herself using the camera provided in the photo sticker creating apparatus 1, and displays the photographed image. On the other hand, the foreground and background are synthesized, and editing is performed using an editing function (doodle editing function) such as pen input or stamp input, so that the photographed image is designed to be rich. After the game ends, the user receives a photo sticker or the like on which the edited image is printed as a product.

  Such a photo sticker creating apparatus 1 is normally installed in a game center, a store in a sightseeing spot, or the like. That is, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 is sold to managers of those stores from, for example, manufacturers and sales companies. The manager who has purchased the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 installs the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 in a store (for example, a game center) to manage and operate the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 for general users represented by female high school students and female junior high school students. Play the created game for a fee, and make a profit by paying for it.

  Therefore, the high profit rate of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 is important for the store manager. That is, it is desirable that the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 has a high rate of return per unit time. Moreover, in the case of a normal store, the installation place of the photograph sticker production apparatus 1 is limited by restrictions, such as a floor area and a structure. Therefore, it is desirable that the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 has a high profit rate per unit floor area. Furthermore, since the size and shape of each store are usually not the same, and other game machines and the like installed together with the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 are also different, it is desirable that the degree of freedom of installation is higher.

  As a method of improving the profit rate, for example, there is a method of improving the rotation rate of the photo sticker creation game. That is, the rate of return per unit time is increased by increasing the number of games played within a predetermined time. However, if there is no user who plays the photo sticker creation game, the profitability will not improve. That is, it is also important to improve the user's expectation and satisfaction with respect to the photo sticker creation game of the photo sticker creation device 1.

  For example, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 can increase the number of users by providing a function with high expectation that a user who has never played a game wants to play. In addition, by providing a function with a high degree of satisfaction that a user who has played once thinks that “it was fun and would like to play again”, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 increases the number of users by increasing so-called repeaters. be able to. That is, the profit of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 is improved.

  For the user, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 is roughly divided into playing a photo sticker making game (photo sticker making work) and obtaining a photo sticker image and a photo sticker as a result (finished photo). There are two types of entertainment: the seal itself.

  As the former method for improving the amusement of the photo sticker creation game, there are, for example, a multi-functional shooting function and editing functions such as graffiti, an improvement in operability, or adjustment of play time and waiting time. As the latter method of improving the amusement of the photo sticker, for example, improvement of hardware such as improvement of the quality of the sticker paper, high-quality printing and special color printing, and user satisfaction with the photo sticker image To improve the degree.

  High school girls and junior high school students who are the main users not only stick the obtained photo sticker to their property, but also exchange the photo sticker or talk about the photo sticker as a topic. Therefore, for example, if the image content of a photo sticker is flashy, interesting, scarce, or novel, the user may like it, but not only that. It is also possible that the conversation will be lively on the topic of photo stickers.

  In addition, by using such a photo sticker, the photo sticker itself may serve as an advertisement for the photo sticker creating apparatus 1. Therefore, improving the amusement of the photo sticker not only improves the satisfaction of the user, but also increases the expectation of others, attracting customers due to the spread of reputation, that is, new users by so-called word-of-mouth Can also be expected to increase.

  In other words, in the photo sticker creation game, by providing a function that can create images that users will like, not only the user's satisfaction with the photo sticker creation game but also the satisfaction with the photo sticker is improved. Furthermore, the topicality of the photo sticker and the advertising effect can be improved at the same time.

  Although the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 has such features, the housing 10 is roughly divided into three units, a pre-service unit 11, a photographing unit 12, and an editing unit 13, as shown in FIG. .

  The pre-service unit 11 is a unit that performs various operations prior to steps such as shooting and editing in a photo sticker creation game. The customer service unit 11 includes an upper unit 11A and a lower unit 11B.

  The photographing unit 12 has a function of photographing a subject (such as a user), and the subject is photographed in an internal space (photographing space) described later. The photographing unit 12 is roughly divided into two units, a front unit 12A and a rear unit 12B.

  The front unit 12A is a unit on the front side of the shooting space, and performs processing related to shooting of the user in the shooting space and accepts operations related to user photo sticker creation play. The rear unit 12B is a unit on the side that is the rear side of the shooting space, and is a unit that plays the role of the user when the front unit 12A takes a picture. The interior of the rear unit 12B is a cavity (space), and is configured as a part of a space (photographing space described later) used when the user performs photographing. Inside the rear unit 12B, for example, a movable curtain (background curtain) used for the background, a stage used for the user to pose, and the like may be provided. The background curtain used for the background may be a fixed curtain of one color such as green. By using a one-color curtain, the subject can be easily extracted by chroma key processing.

  The editing unit 13 is provided with a configuration (for example, a monitor, a touch panel, a touch pen, etc.) for the user to perform graffiti editing or the like on a captured image on each of two opposing surfaces.

  The casing 10 is further provided with a ceiling strobe box 14 having a built-in flash that emits strobe light toward the photographing space in accordance with the photographing timing, above the rear unit 12B. The ceiling strobe box 14 is further provided with a fluorescent lamp, and functions as illumination that constantly illuminates the photographing space (the user in the photographing space). The photographing space is simply configured as a closed space as will be described later. Therefore, it is difficult for light to enter from the outside, and the user's operability may be deteriorated because it tends to be dark. The ceiling strobe box 14 illuminates the shooting space with the illumination, thereby avoiding such a fear and improving operability. Such illumination is also provided in the front unit 12A and the rear unit 12B.

  FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 of FIG. 1 as viewed from the editing unit 13 side.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the editing unit 13 is installed adjacent to the surface of the front unit 12A opposite to the surface on the rear unit 12B side (that is, the surface on the imaging space side). On the two side surfaces of the editing unit 13 orthogonal to the front unit 12A, a first editing interface unit 13A and a second editing interface unit 13B are provided for the user to perform graffiti editing or the like on the captured image. That is, the editing unit 13 allows a plurality of sets of users who perform the photo sticker creation game to perform editing operations with the editing unit 13 facing each other in a direction orthogonal to the direction connecting the front unit 12A and the rear unit 12B. Two editing interfaces are provided so that this can be done.

  Also, on the surface of the editing unit 13 that faces the photographing unit 12, a photo sticker discharge unit 13C is provided in which the photo sticker created when the photo sticker making game is played is discharged and provided to the user. ing.

  FIG. 3 is an external view showing an installation example of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1.

  When the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 is installed in a game center or the like, for example, as shown in FIG. 3, a curtain 21 is provided so as to surround the photographing unit 12 and the editing unit 13, and a photographing space where photographing work is performed or The editing space where the editing work is performed is simply enclosed, and the closeability of each space is improved. In other words, for example, the curtain 21 stabilizes the environment in each space, thereby contributing to high-quality shooting, easy viewing of the editing screen, etc., or blocking the field of view from outside each space, It is possible to perform operations such as shooting and editing without being aware of the line of sight.

  The outer surface of the curtain 21 is usually used as a place for posting advertisements, and a flashy design image representing the model name and model image of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 is printed so as to attract attention at the installation location. Is done.

  The photo sticker creating apparatus 1 as described above causes each set of users to play a photo sticker creating game. The photo sticker creating apparatus 1 can simultaneously execute a plurality of photo sticker creating games. That is, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 can cause a plurality of sets to play a photo sticker creating game at the same time. At this time, each group of users performs each work of the photo sticker creation game while moving through a plurality of spaces provided in the photo sticker creation device 1, and advances the game.

  The flow of the photo sticker creation game and the accompanying movement of the space will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 4 is a plan view of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 as viewed from above by the user during the game. As shown in FIG. 4, the user starts the photo sticker creation game by charging the pre-service unit 11 in the pre-service area 31, which is the area around the front of the pre-service unit 11 (user A). ). When the game is started, the user first performs a pre-service operation toward the pre-service unit 11 in the pre-service area 31. After that, the user enters the shooting space 32 that is formed between the front unit 12 </ b> A and the rear unit 12 </ b> B, indicated by a dotted line in the drawing, from the side of the pre-service unit 11. Enter (User B).

  It is also possible to provide the customer service unit 11 on the opposite side of the front unit 12A as indicated by the dotted line. In this case, the user plays a photo sticker creation game from the person with the customer service unit 11 in advance. Start (user A ′), and after pre-service, enter the shooting space 32 from the side opposite to the side described above (user B).

  A user (user B) who enters the shooting space 32 performs a shooting operation (main shooting) for shooting himself / herself using a camera or a monitor provided in front of the front unit 12A.

  When the photographing work is completed, the user selects a keep image to be kept for editing and printing from the obtained photographed images, and follows the displayed movement guide from the photographing space 32 where the photographing work is performed. Move to the editing space indicated by the dotted line.

  A first editing space 33A is provided on the right side (in front of the first editing interface unit 13A) of the editing unit 13 as viewed from the front unit 12A, and the second editing space 33B is provided on the left side (in front of the second editing interface unit 13B). Is provided. That is, in this photo sticker creation apparatus 1, a total of two sets of users, the user (user C) of the first editing space 33A and the user (user C ') of the second editing space 33B, simultaneously edit. Work can be done. A user (user B) of the shooting space 32 is guided to a free one of the two editing spaces. When the user moves to the first editing space 33A or the second editing space 33B, the user performs a graffiti editing work. Hereinafter, when it is not necessary to distinguish the first editing space 33A and the second editing space 33B, they are referred to as an editing space 33.

  Thereafter, when the graffiti editing is completed, the user (user C or user C ') next performs print setting work and sets the number of divisions and the like. When printing is started, the user plays a mini game during the printing. Then, when printing is completed, the photograph sticker receiving section 34 in front of the photo sticker discharge unit 13C is moved (user D), the discharged photo sticker paper is received, and the photo sticker creation game is finished.

  In the photo sticker creation game as described above, when the user A (or user A ′) of the pre-service area 31 moves to the shooting space 32, the pre-service area 31 becomes unused. At this stage, the photo sticker creation apparatus 1 can cause a new group of users to use the pre-service area 31 and start a new photo sticker creation game. Similarly, when the user B of the shooting space 32 moves to the first editing space 33A or the second editing space 33B, the shooting space 32 becomes unused. The photographing space 32 can be used. Further, when the user C of the first editing space 33A or the user C ′ of the second editing space 33B moves to the photo sticker receiving area 34, the editing space (the first editing space 33A or the second editing space 33B). ) Is unused, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 can make a new set of users use the editing space.

  In other words, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 has the pre-service area 31, the shooting space 32, the first editing space 33 </ b> A, the second editing in order to improve the rotation rate per unit time and the unit floor area of the photo sticker creating game. Using the space 33B and the photo sticker receiving area 34, a plurality of sets of users can play a photo sticker creation game at the same time (multiple customer service can be performed).

  In addition, the structure of such a housing | casing 10 is arbitrary and may be a structure other than what was mentioned above. Similarly, the method of multiple customer service is also arbitrary.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of the front unit 12A. A front surface 12A-1 illustrated in FIG. 5 is a side surface facing the imaging space 32 and is a front surface for the user who performs the imaging operation. That is, the user basically performs a photographing operation in the photographing space 32 toward the front surface 12A-1 (facing the front unit 12A side).

  The front surface 12A-1 includes a camera 71 that captures an object in the imaging space 32, and an acquired image and a captured result that are photoelectrically converted by the camera 71 and acquired in real time (immediately). A shooting display unit 72 for displaying a shot image and the like, illuminations 73-1 to 73-7 for illuminating the inside of the shooting space 32, or emitting flash light in accordance with the shooting timing by the camera 71, and during shooting work A luggage storage area 74-1 to a luggage storage area 74-3 are provided for storing the user's baggage.

  The camera 71 is configured by an imaging element or the like using a CCD (Charge Coupled Device), images a user in the imaging space 32, and acquires an image (moving image) (acquired image). From the acquired image acquired by the camera 71, a frame image at a predetermined timing is extracted and stored as a captured image (still image) as the actual shooting. For example, a camera using a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensor may be used as the camera 71 instead of the CCD. Of course, any camera other than these may be used as long as the user can be photographed and digital image data can be obtained. The number of cameras 71 is also arbitrary.

  The photographing display unit 72 is configured by a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) display or LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), and is obtained by the camera 71, a composite image to be combined with the photographed image, a photographed image stored as a photographing result, or a photographed image. It is a monitor that displays an image relating to a shooting work such as a guide image for guiding the work procedure. A colorless and transparent touch panel (for example, pressure-sensitive type or electromagnetic induction type) is superimposed on the screen of the photographing display unit 72. For example, by tapping with a user's finger or the like, the position information (user instruction) ) Can be entered.

  The lighting 73-1 to lighting 73-7 are composed of a plurality of lighting devices capable of fluorescent light and strobe light emission, and in order to brighten the shooting space 32 and ensure operability and safety, the shooting space 32 is always set. In order to illuminate and improve the image quality of the photographed image, the flash is emitted at a timing corresponding to the photographing timing, and the user who is photographed is irradiated with light. Hereinafter, when it is not necessary to distinguish between the lighting 73-1 to the lighting 73-7, they are referred to as the lighting 73.

  The luggage storage area 74-1 to the luggage storage area 74-3 are shelves that are used as storage areas for the user's baggage at the time of shooting. Each of the luggage storage area 74-1 to the luggage storage area 74-3 does not get in the way of shooting, that is, does not get in the way for the user to take a shooting pose, and the irradiation of the light of the illumination 73 It is provided in a position that does not interfere. The user can perform photographing work more comfortably by placing his / her baggage in one of the luggage storage areas 74-1 to 74-3. In the following, when it is not necessary to distinguish between the luggage storage area 74-1 to the luggage storage area 74-3, they are simply referred to as the luggage storage area 74.

  In addition, although illustration is omitted, in the shooting space 32, there are also provided speakers that output voices such as guidance voices, background music (BGM), and sound effects.

  Next, the configuration of the editing unit 13 will be described.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the editing unit 13 on the right side when viewed from the photographing unit 12 side (configuration example on the first editing space 33A side).

  In FIG. 6, a first editing interface unit 13A is provided on the right side surface. On top of that, there is provided an illumination 81 for illuminating the first editing space 33A that becomes dark because it is partitioned by the curtain 21 or the like. With this illumination 81, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 can suppress a reduction in the editing work efficiency of the user and improve the safety of the first editing space 33A.

  The first editing interface unit 13A is provided with an editing display unit 82, two touch pens (touch pen 83-1 and touch pen 83-2), and a speaker 84.

  The edit display unit 82 includes a CRT display and an LCD, and displays a GUI image (doodle editing input screen) and the like for editing a captured image obtained by a shooting operation in the shooting space.

  A colorless and transparent touch panel (for example, pressure-sensitive type or electromagnetic induction type) is superimposed on the screen of the edit display unit 82. Further, in the vicinity of the left and right sides of the edit display section 82, touch pens 83-1 and touch pens 83-2 corresponding to the touch panel are detachably fixed to the editing unit 13 by a predetermined attachment one by one on the left and right sides. The two users can perform editing operations simultaneously by using these touch pens. In the following description, the touch pen 83-1 and the touch pen 83-2 are simply referred to as the touch pen 83 when it is not necessary to distinguish between them.

  The touch pen 83 is also electrically connected to a system installed in the editing unit 13 by wire (or wireless). The touch pen 83 operates in cooperation with a colorless and transparent touch panel superimposed on the screen of the edit display unit 82. When the user operates these touch pens 83 and taps the touch panel superimposed on the edit display unit 82 (the touch pen 83 and the touch panel are brought into contact (or close proximity)), they accept input from the user. Operates as input means.

  The speaker 84 outputs voices such as guidance voices, sound effects, or BGM, for example.

  The configuration of the editing unit 13 on the second editing space 33B side is basically the same as the configuration on the first editing space 33A side shown in FIG. In the following, the configuration example shown in FIG. 6 is also applied to the case where the configuration of the editing unit 13 on the second editing space 33B side is described.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of the photo sticker discharge unit 13 </ b> C of the editing unit 13.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the photo sticker discharge unit 13C has a photo sticker created by the user who performed the editing work in the first editing space 33A (that is, the photo sticker was created by operating the first editing interface unit 13A). Photo sticker 92-1 from which the photo sticker is discharged, and a photo sticker created by the user who performed the editing work in the second editing space 33B (that is, the second editing interface unit 13B is operated). There are provided two photo sticker discharge ports, a photo sticker discharge port 91-2 through which a photo sticker) is discharged.

  A printer (not shown) is installed inside the editing unit 13, and a printing image created by operating the first editing interface unit 13A or the second editing interface unit 13B is printed on a sticker sheet by the printer. Printed on. The photo sticker output from the printer is discharged from the photo sticker discharge port 91-1 or the photo sticker discharge port 91-2. Hereinafter, when it is not necessary to distinguish between the photo sticker discharge port 91-1 and the photo sticker discharge port 91-2, they will be simply referred to as the photo sticker discharge port 91.

  Next, an internal configuration example of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 will be described.

  FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration example of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1. The same parts as those described above are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.

  In FIG. 8, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 includes a control device 101 that is a processing unit that controls the entire apparatus of the photo sticker creating device 1. The control device 101 includes a storage unit 102, a communication unit 103, A drive 104, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 106, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 107, a pre-serving section 111, a photographing section 112, an editing section 113, and a printer 114 are respectively connected via a predetermined bus.

  The storage unit 102 includes a non-volatile recording medium such as a hard disk or a flash memory, and stores various setting information supplied from the control device 101 in the recording medium or is recorded on the recording medium. The setting information is read out and supplied to the control device 101.

  The communication unit 103 is connected to another communication device (not shown) via an external network (not shown) such as the Internet or a public telephone line network, or simply via a communication cable (not shown). And is controlled by the control device 101 to communicate with other communication devices such as a user's mobile phone, a user's personal computer, or a central management server. For example, the communication unit 103 transmits transmission information supplied from the control device 101 to another communication device, or supplies reception information supplied from another communication device to the control device 101.

  The drive 104 includes a removable medium such as a magnetic disk (including a flexible disk), an optical disk (including a CD-ROM (Compact Disc-Read Only Memory), a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc)), a magneto-optical disk, and a semiconductor memory. The computer program and data read out from the computer 105 and the data read from them are supplied to the control device 101 as needed, and stored or installed in the storage unit 102 or the like.

  The ROM 106 stores programs and data executed in the control device 101 in advance, and the ROM 106 supplies the programs and data to the control device 101 based on instructions from the control device 101. The RAM 107 temporarily holds data and programs processed by the control device 101.

  The prior customer service unit 111 uses the prior customer service unit 11 to perform customer service for a user before photographing. For example, the pre-service section 111 displays a demonstration screen of a photo sticker creation game, accepts the insertion of a price (coin) for the photo sticker creation game, guides movement into the shooting space 32, or takes the shooting space 32. When the is in use, the user is made to wait.

  The photographing unit 112 is a block relating to the photographing unit 12 and includes a lighting device 131, a camera 71, a photographing display unit 72, a touch panel 132, a speaker 133, a background control unit 134, and a curtain unit 135.

  The illuminating device 131 has an illuminating 73, and based on the illumination control signal supplied from the control device 101, these are turned on, turned off, or flash light is emitted.

  As described above, the camera 71 is provided in the vicinity of the center of the front surface 12A-1 of the front unit 12A, and controls the control device 101 to shoot a subject (user) in the shooting space 32. For example, the camera 71 supplies the acquired image to the control device 101 as image data under the control of the control device 101. Further, the camera 71 acquires a captured image by operating a mechanical shutter based on a shutter control signal supplied from the control device 101. The image data of the captured image is also supplied to the control device 101 in the same manner as the image data of the acquired image.

  The photographing display unit 72 is a monitor provided in the vicinity of the camera 71 on the front surface 12A-1 of the front unit 12A, and displays an image based on the RGB signal supplied from the control device 101. Further, a colorless and transparent touch panel 132 is superimposed on the surface of the imaging display unit 72. When the user taps (touches or approaches) the touch panel 132 using his / her finger or the like, the position information is supplied to the control device 101 (not shown). The control device 101 analyzes the position information, identifies and accepts information and instructions input by the user with respect to the display image.

  The speaker 133 is provided at a predetermined location in the imaging space 32, such as the front unit 12A, for example, and receives audio of an audio signal supplied from the control device 101 (such as shooting operation guidance sound, sound effects, or BGM). Output.

  The background control unit 134 is controlled by the control device 101 and controls the operation of the curtain unit 135 provided in the rear unit 12B. The curtain unit 135 includes a plurality of background curtains having different colors and patterns. The curtain unit 135 raises and lowers them based on the control of the background control unit 134, and the selected background curtain is moved to the inner side surface (shooting space of the rear unit 12B). 32 is hung on the side of the front unit 12 </ b> A facing the front surface 12 </ b> A- 1.

  The editing unit 113 is a block related to the editing unit 13 and includes an editing display unit 82, a touch panel 141, a touch pen 83-1, a touch pen 83-2, and a speaker 84. Actually, the editing unit 113 has the respective configurations of the first editing interface unit 13A and the second editing interface unit 13B (that is, has two configurations described above), but FIG. For the sake of simplification, description will be made as a single configuration. That is, the following description is applicable to both the first editing interface unit 13A and the second editing interface unit 13B.

  The edit display unit 82 is a monitor provided in the edit interface unit, and displays an image related to editing such as an edit input GUI and a captured image corresponding to the RGB signal supplied from the control device 101. A colorless and transparent touch panel 141 is superimposed on the screen display portion of the edit display section 82. When the user operates the touch pen 83-1 or the touch pen 83-2 to tap (contact or approach) the touch panel 141, the position information is supplied to the control device 101 (not shown). The control device 101 analyzes the position information, identifies and accepts information and instructions input by the user with respect to the display image. That is, editing input for a captured image (a composite image created using the captured image) is performed using these configurations.

  The speaker 84 outputs the sound of the sound signal supplied from the control device 101 (editing work guidance sound, sound effect, BGM or the like).

  When the printer 114 acquires a print image as print data from the control device 101, the printer 114 prints the print image on the sticker sheet 152 taken out from the sticker sheet unit 151. The printer 114 discharges the printed sticker paper as a photo sticker from the photo sticker discharge port 91-1 or the photo sticker discharge port 91-2, and provides it to the user.

  Next, the control device 101 will be described. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of functional blocks included in the control apparatus 101. As shown in FIG. 9, the control device 101 uses a coin insertion acceptance processing unit 161 that performs processing related to a price (coin) that is inserted when starting a photo sticker creation game. A pre-service processing unit 162 that serves a customer, a photographing processing unit 163 that performs processing related to photographing work for photographing a user, an editing processing unit 164 that performs processing related to editing work on a photographed image, and processing related to image printing on a photo sticker. A print processing unit 165 to perform, and a post-service processing unit 166 for serving a user who has finished the editing work.

  The edit processing unit 164 includes a captured image acquisition unit 171, a post-service customer content selection unit 172, an edit input screen control unit 173, a graffiti editing unit 174, a pattern selection unit 175, a combination image selection unit 176, a combination pre-creation unit 177, and a combination pre- A graffiti editing unit 178 and a division number selecting unit 179 are provided.

  The photographed image acquisition unit 171 captures a photographed image that is photographed by the camera 71 of the photographing unit 112, selected as an image for graffiti editing, and stored in the RAM 107, the storage unit 102, or the like in the photographing operation controlled by the photographing processing unit 163. Get the data. The post-service customer content selection unit 172 controls the editing unit 113 to cause the user to select the content of post-service processing for the user who has finished the editing work.

  The edit input screen control unit 173 controls the edit unit 113, and controls display, input reception, and the like of an edit input screen that is a GUI (Graphical User Interface) for a user to perform graffiti editing on a captured image.

  The graffiti editing unit 174 generates image information of the graffiti editing performed based on the user's operation performed on the editing input screen.

  The pattern selection unit 175 to the combination pre-graffiti editing unit 178 synthesize (combine) a plurality of captured images (including edited images that have already been subjected to graffiti editing) into one editing target image. A processing unit that performs processing related to “combination pre”.

  Although details will be described later, on the editing input screen, a captured image is displayed as an image to be edited, and graffiti editing is performed by a user operation. At this time, in a normal case, each captured image is displayed as a different image to be edited. That is, as shown in FIG. 10A, one editing target image 201 is composed of one photographed image. Therefore, in this case, the user performs graffiti editing of each editing target image (each photographed image) one by one.

  On the other hand, the combination pre arranges a plurality of combination images composed of photographed images and edited images in a predetermined area in an arbitrary position, size, angle, and overlapping order (that is, an arbitrary layout). And is a combined image that is combined (combined) and used as one image to be edited. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 10B, captured images 211 to 213 are arranged in the image area of the combination pre 202. Thus, the combination pre is a single image that is generated by combining a plurality of combination images and has a plurality of combination images in the image region, and, like other captured images, one image to be edited It is an image used as

  That is, as shown in FIG. 10B, the user can further perform graffiti editing on the entire combination pre-202 generated by combining the captured images 211 to 213, and perform more interesting graffiti editing. be able to.

  In the edit input screen, a plurality of photographed images are arranged and displayed without gaps, and the photographed images are treated as one image to be edited, and the user straddles those photographed images. A method for enabling graffiti editing has already been considered. However, this method only displays the captured images together, and the image data is managed independently of each other. Therefore, after editing, they are used as different edited images. It is also possible to manage the data of each edited image in association with each other so that when printing on the photo sticker, the images are arranged and printed in the same way as when editing the graffiti. It is necessary to manage the relationship between each edited image, and the layout of the image is limited only to a layout that is less interesting that a plurality of photographed images are arranged without gaps. Since the edited images are arranged side by side in the layout at the time of editing, the arrangement pattern of each image on the photo sticker is also limited.

  On the other hand, the combination pre is generated as a new image and processed in the same manner as other captured images and edited images. Therefore, no special management is required for the combination pre. Moreover, since each combination image can be arrange | positioned by arbitrary layout patterns, it can be set as the image with the interesting according to a user's preference. Further, the image size (aspect ratio) of the combination pre can be set arbitrarily, and the layout when printing on the photo sticker can be prevented from being limited.

  A plurality of edited images are usually printed on the photo sticker as shown in FIG. In FIG. 11, each square frame drawn on the photo sticker 220 indicates an edited image (including a photographed image). That is, on the photo sticker 220, a plurality of edited images (including photographed images that are omitted from editing) created by the photographing operation and the editing operation are arranged in a predetermined pattern without gaps (or at predetermined intervals) ( (Including the case where a plurality of images are arranged). At this time, the combination pre is processed in the same manner as the other edited images (as one edited image) and printed.

  The pattern selection unit 175 allows the user to select a pattern (type) of the combination image layout (image arrangement) from a plurality of patterns prepared in advance. The photo sticker creating apparatus 1 has a predetermined number of layout pattern candidates prepared in advance so that the user can easily create a combination pre within the time limit of the photo sticker creating game. The selection unit 175 controls the editing unit 113 to present this candidate to the user, and uses a pattern (position, size in the region when the combination image is arranged in the predetermined region, Select the type of angle and stacking order).

  One example is shown in FIG. 10B, but the layout of the combined image (position, size, angle, number of images, how to overlap the images, etc.) may be basically any. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 10B, a background image may be displayed in an area where the captured image 211 to the captured image 213 are not arranged in the combination pre-202. That is, the combination pre may be created by arranging a plurality of combination images on a predetermined background image. In this case, the background image may be determined in advance for each layout pattern candidate. Of course, a predetermined foreground image may be provided in advance for the combined image.

  The combination image selection unit 176 causes the user to select a combination image. The combination image can be selected from a photographed image and an edited image that is a photographed image subjected to graffiti editing. That is, the user can select only the captured image, select only the edited image, or select both the captured image and the edited image. When a plurality of combination pres can be created, the created combination pres may be used as a combination image of another combination pre. One photographed image or edited image may be used as a combination image of a plurality of combination pres. Furthermore, for example, based on a predetermined condition, an image that cannot be selected as a combination image from the captured image, the edited image, and the combination image may be set.

  The combination pre creating unit 177 combines the combination images selected by the user according to the layout pattern selected by the user, and creates a combination pre. It should be noted that the number of combination pres that can be created is arbitrary and may be single or plural, and may be a fixed number or variable.

  The combination pre-doodle editing unit 178 allows the user to perform a doodle edit on the combination pre. As described above, the combination pre is handled as one image to be edited. Therefore, the user can perform graffiti editing on the combination pre like the other editing target images (captured images and edited images) using the graffiti editing input screen.

  As described above, an edited image can be combined as a combined image. Referring to the example of FIG. 10B, the user individually performs graffiti editing for each of the captured images 211 to 213 and further doodles the combination pre-202 created by combining the edited images. Hierarchical graffiti editing, such as editing, can be performed.

  The division number selection unit 179 uses a plurality of patterns prepared in advance as the number of print area divisions (image layout layout) when an edited image (including a combination pre-written graffiti edit) is printed on sticker paper. Let the user choose from

  As shown by the square frame in FIG. 11, the area (printing area) where the image of the photo sticker 220 (sticker paper) is printed is divided into a plurality of divided areas (partial areas of the printing area). One edited image (including a photographed image that has not been subjected to graffiti editing) is printed one by one. Of course, one edited image may be printed in a plurality of divided areas. In this case, one edited image is printed in each of the plurality of divided areas. The division number selection unit 179 allows the user to select such a print area division pattern (division area arrangement pattern) from a plurality of patterns prepared in advance. Note that the combination pre is printed one sheet at a time in one divided area in the same manner as the captured image and the edited image. Of course, like a captured image or an edited image, one combination pre may be printed in a plurality of divided areas. In this case, one combination pre is also provided for each of the plurality of divided areas. Printed.

  Next, the flow of the photo sticker creation game will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  A user who performs a photo sticker creation game first inserts coins into the coin insertion / ejection unit of the pre-service unit 11 in the pre-service area 31 and pays for the game. If the coin insertion acceptance processing unit 161 of the control device 101 accepts such a coin insertion in step S1 and determines that a valid price has been inserted, the process proceeds to step S2.

  In step S2, the pre-service processing unit 162 controls each part of the pre-service unit 11, and performs pre-service processing that allows the user of the pre-service area 31 to perform pre-service work, which is the first step of the photo sticker creation game. Execute. In the pre-service process, when the pre-service process is completed, the user is guided to move to the shooting space 32. The user moves to the shooting space 32 and advances the game. In step S <b> 3, the shooting processing unit 163 performs shooting processing on the user who has moved to the shooting space 32, obtains a shot image, and stores the shot image in the storage unit 102 or the RAM 107.

  In the shooting process, when the shooting operation is completed, the user is guided to move to the first editing space 33A or the second editing space 33B. The user moves to the guided editing space 33 and advances the game. In step S <b> 4, the editing processing unit 164 performs editing processing on the user who has moved to the first editing space 33 </ b> A or the second editing space 33 </ b> B using the editing interface unit corresponding to the space, and the editing space unit 164 Graffiti editing work such as pen input and stamp input and creation work of a combination pre are performed on the composite photographed image obtained by the main photographing to obtain an edited image (including the combination pre). Details of the editing process will be described later.

  When the editing process is completed, in step S5, the print processing unit 165 performs a print process for printing the image for printing obtained by the above operation on the photo sticker. In addition, in step S6, the post-service processing unit 166 performs mini-games, image registration, or image so that the user who has finished the graffiti editing work is not bored until the printing process is completed. Post-service processing is performed to perform work such as transfer.

  When the printing process ends, the print processing unit 165 replaces the photo sticker 220 as shown in FIG. 11 which is the sticker paper on which the image is printed in step S7 with the photo sticker discharge port 91-1, or the photo sticker discharge port. It is discharged to the one corresponding to the editing space on the side where the graffiti editing work has been performed, and provided to the user as a product. When the photo sticker is discharged, the print processing unit 165 ends the photo sticker creation game for the user (the set of users).

  Next, an example of the detailed flow of the editing process executed in step S4 of FIG. 12 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. This will be described with reference to FIG. 14 as necessary. Note that this editing process is actually performed on the editing space of the first editing space 33A or the second editing space 33B to which the user who plays the photo sticker creation game corresponding to the flowchart of FIG. 12 has moved. (The editing unit 113 corresponds to one of the first editing interface unit 13A and the second editing interface unit 13B), but the same processing is executed for any editing space. Therefore, in the following, for simplification of description, it is assumed that the user has moved to the editing space 33 without particularly stating whether the user has moved to the first editing space 33A or the second editing space 33B. .

  When the editing process is started, the captured image acquisition unit 171 of the editing processing unit 164 acquires the captured image obtained by the imaging unit 112 in step S21.

  In step S22, the post-service customer selection unit 172 causes the editing display unit 82 to display a GUI screen that allows the user to select work content in the post-service, and causes the user to select the post-service service content. The photo sticker creating apparatus 1 is a post-service work, for example, transferring images to a mini game, a mobile phone, etc., and popular so that the user who has finished editing work will not get bored until the image printing is finished. A predetermined predetermined work such as voting is played. The subsequent customer service selection unit 172 displays a GUI screen on the editing display unit 82 that allows the user to select which work to play in the subsequent customer service at that time, controls the touch pen 83 and the touch panel 141, and controls the GUI. The user's selection instruction input on the screen is received, the post-service customer content is determined according to the selection instruction, and the setting is stored.

  When the setting of the subsequent customer service content is completed, the edit input screen control unit 173 displays an edit input screen on the edit display unit 82 for allowing the user to input graffiti edit on the photographed image in step S23.

  FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a graffiti edit input screen. In the graffiti edit input screen 300 shown in FIG. 14, the main configuration in the screen is basically 2 so that two users of the same group can perform graffiti edit input at the same time. It is provided one by one. In the following, when it is necessary to distinguish the two from each other, the configuration on the left side in the figure is described with a symbol “A”, and the configuration on the right side in the diagram is labeled with a “B”. I will explain. In the case where it is not necessary to distinguish the left and right paired configurations from each other, description will be made without adding “A” or “B” to the reference numerals.

  As shown in FIG. 14, the graffiti edit input screen 300 is provided with two areas on the left and right where the combination pre-creation area 301 or the graffiti edit input area 302 is displayed. Next to these areas, a combination pre-tab 303 and an end tab 304 are provided, and an area corresponding to the tab selected by the user is displayed.

  For example, when the user selects the combination pre-tab 303, the combination pre-creation area 301 is displayed, and when the user selects the end tab 304, the graffiti edit input area 302 is displayed. More specifically, in the example of FIG. 14, the combination pre-tab 303 is selected and the combination pre-creation area 303A is displayed in the left area in the figure, and the end tab 304B is selected in the right area in the figure. A graffiti edit input area 302B is displayed.

  The combination pre creation area 301 is an area for creating a combination pre. In this combination pre-creation area 301, the layout of the combination pre-selected as will be described later is displayed. That is, in the combination pre-creation area 301, a combination image display area in which a combination image is displayed is displayed. In the case of the example in FIG. 14, a combination image display area 321A to a combination image display area 323A are displayed in the combination pre-creation area 301A.

  In these combination image display areas, images selected by the user are displayed. In this way, a combination pre is created in the combination pre-creation area 301. Furthermore, in the combination pre-creation area 301, graffiti editing input for the combination pre created in this way is also performed.

  On the other hand, the graffiti edit input area 302 is an area in which a user inputs graffiti edit for a captured image. That is, the graffiti edit input area 302 is an area in which one graffiti edit target image selected by the user is displayed and the graffiti edit is performed on the displayed edit target image.

  In this graffiti editing input area 302, the user may be able to perform graffiti editing on the combination pre.

  A thumbnail area 305 is provided between the left and right areas where the combination pre-creation area 301 and the graffiti edit input area 302 are displayed. In the thumbnail area 305, a reduced (thumbnail) image of the captured image obtained by the shooting operation is displayed. The thumbnail images displayed in the thumbnail area 305 are configured to be selectable. That is, when the user selects one of the thumbnail images, the image is displayed as a graffiti editing target image in the graffiti editing input area 302 on the side corresponding to the touch pen 83, or on the side corresponding to the touch pen 83. Or the combination pre-creation area 301 is displayed as a combination image.

  On the left and right sides of the thumbnail area 305, a graffiti editing control area 306A and a graffiti editing control area 306B are provided with buttons for controlling the progress of graffiti editing in the combination pre-creation area 301 and the graffiti editing input area 302. Have

  Further, in the end management area 307 provided on the upper side of the thumbnail area 305 in the drawing, a remaining time is displayed, and an end button 308 for forcibly ending the editing work is provided.

  Also, below the thumbnail area 305, a combination pre-display area for displaying the combination pre-thumbnail image 310A created in the combination pre-creation area 301A and the combination pre-thumbnail image 310B created in the combination pre-creation area 301B. 309 is provided. Similarly to the thumbnail area 305, the thumbnail image 310A and the thumbnail image 310B displayed in the combination pre-display area 309 may be selectable by the user. That is, for example, when the user selects the thumbnail image 310A, the combination pre corresponding to the thumbnail image 310A is displayed in the combination pre creation area 301A (or graffiti edit input area 302A).

  Note that the thumbnail image 310A and the thumbnail image 310B displayed in the combination pre-display area 309 are combination pre-combinations of a plurality of combination images, so that the thumbnails displayed in the thumbnail area 305 are easier to see for the user. It may be displayed larger than the image.

  Below the graffiti edit input area 302, a tool area 311 for displaying a list of graffiti pen tool functions, a list of stamp tool functions, a list of backgrounds and frames, etc. used for graffiti editing is displayed. When the combination pre-creation area 301 is displayed, a pattern display area 331 for the user to select a layout pattern of the combination image is displayed at the position of the tool area 311.

  In the example of FIG. 14, a pattern display area 331A is displayed below the combination pre-creation area 301A, and a tool area 311B is displayed below the graffiti edit input area 302.

  In the tool area 311, a function list of each tool is displayed so as to be selectable, and the user assigns the function to the touch pen 83 by selecting the function displayed in this area. A graffiti input button group 312 for selecting a tool for displaying a function list in the tool area 311 is displayed between the tool area 311A and the tool area 311B. In the example of FIG. 14, as the graffiti input button group 312, a stamp button for selecting a stamp tool, a background button for displaying a list of background images in the tool area 311, a frame button for displaying a list of frame images in the tool area 311, And two graffiti pen buttons for selecting the graffiti pen tool.

  In the pattern display area 331, a plurality of layout image samples (candidates) of combination images prepared in advance are displayed as selectable thumbnail images. In FIG. 14, thumbnail images 341A to 344A corresponding to different patterns are displayed. In addition, the pattern display area 331 is also provided with a determination button 345A indicating that the thumbnail image selection is determined by the user's operation.

  When the user operates the touch pen 83 to select one of these thumbnail images and presses the enter button 345, the selected layout pattern is displayed in the combination pre-creation area 301. In the example of FIG. 14, the thumbnail image 341A is selected. Note that when the determination button 345 is operated, the display of the pattern display area 331 may be switched to the display of the tool area 311.

  Using the graffiti editing input screen 300 having such a configuration, the user performs graffiti editing work or combination pre-creation work.

  When the graffiti edit input screen 300 as described above is displayed on the edit display unit 82, the edit input screen control unit 173 controls the touch panel 141 and the touch pen 83 of the edit unit 113 in step S24 to input the graffiti edit input by the user. The acceptance of graffiti editing input for the screen 300 is started.

  In step S25, the graffiti editing unit 174 performs graffiti editing processing for each captured image based on the graffiti editing input received by the editing input screen control unit 173. For example, the user selects the end tab 304 on the graffiti edit input screen 300 to display the graffiti edit input area 302, and the thumbnail image corresponding to the desired photographed image from the thumbnail images displayed in the thumbnail area 305. The graffiti edit input area 302 displays the photographed image as a graffiti edit target image, operates the desired button of the graffiti input button group, selects the desired graffiti tool, and displays the function displayed in the tool area. A graffiti edit is input to the graffiti edit target image displayed in the graffiti edit input area 302 using the touch pen 83 to which the graffiti function is assigned. The graffiti editing unit 174 generates image information of the graffiti editing based on the graffiti editing input input by the user in this way and superimposes it on the captured image, or edits the captured image itself for editing. Generate finished images.

  Also, the edit input screen control unit 173 determines whether or not creation of a combination pre is selected in step S26. For example, when switching from graffiti editing input work to each photographed image to combination pre creation work, the user operates the combination pretab 303 on the graffiti edit input screen 300 to display the combination pre creation area 301. When such an input is detected and it is determined that the user has selected to create a combination pre, the edit input screen control unit 173 advances the process to step S27.

  When creation of a combination pre is selected, the pattern selection unit 175 displays a pattern display area 331 in the tool area 311 of the graffiti edit input screen 300 in step S27, and allows the user to select a combination pattern.

  When the user selects a combination pattern by selecting a thumbnail image displayed in the pattern display area 331, the combination pattern is displayed in the combination pre-creation area 301. In step S28, the combination image selection unit 176 causes the user to select a combination image, for example, by outputting a guidance voice from the speaker 84. The user selects a combination image by selecting a thumbnail image displayed in the thumbnail area 305 and displays each image in the combination image display area.

  As described above, when all the combination images constituting the combination pre are selected, the combination pre creating unit 177 edits the plurality of combination images selected by the user according to the layout selected by the user in step S29. An image (combination pre) is created, and the image data of the combination pre is stored in, for example, the RAM 107 as an image to be edited.

  In step S30, the combination pre-doodle editing unit 178 displays the thumbnail image of the combination pre in the combination pre-display area 309. The combination pre whose thumbnail image is displayed in the combination pre display area 309 can be displayed in the combination pre creation area 301 or the graffiti edit input area 302 at any time by the user selecting the thumbnail image.

  In step S31, the edit input screen control unit 173 performs a graffiti editing process for the combination pre which is one combined edit image. The user who has created the combination pre edits the doodle pre for the combination pre in the graffiti edit input screen 300 as well as other photographed images. The graffiti editing for the combination pre may be performed in the combination pre creation area 301 or may be performed in the graffiti edit input area 302. Based on the graffiti editing input from the user accepted by the edit input screen control unit 173, the combination pre graffiti editing unit 178 generates image information of the graffiti editing and superimposes the combination pre on the combination pre itself. Edited images are generated.

  When the process of step S31 ends, the edit input screen control unit 173 advances the process to step S32. If it is determined in step S26 that the combination pre is not selected, the edit input screen control unit 173 advances the process to step S32.

  In step S <b> 32, the edit input screen control unit 173 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed or whether an end has been instructed. If the predetermined time has not elapsed and no end has been instructed. If determined, the edit input screen control unit 173 returns the process to step S25 and repeats the subsequent processes.

  In Step S32, when it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed or the user has instructed the end by operating the end button 308, the edit input screen control unit 173 advances the processing to Step S33, The display of the graffiti edit input screen 300 is ended and the acceptance of the edit input is ended.

  In step S34, the division number selection unit 179 displays a GUI screen on the editing display unit 82, and allows the user to select the division number of the print area of the photo sticker. When the division number is selected, the division number selection unit 179 ends the editing process, returns the process to step S4 in FIG. 12, and advances the process from step S5 onward.

  FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of a combination pre created by the editing process as described above. The combination pre 401 is an image created by combining the combination images based on the layout example shown in the combination pre creation area 301A of FIG.

  In the combination pre-401, three background images are arranged so as to overlap each other on the background image. Each combination image is composed of different edited images. That is, each combination image is edited independently of each other. Then, after the combined images are collected as one combination pre, the graffiti is further edited. For example, a graffiti “Naka Yokochiyo” in the combination image arranged at the position of the combination image display area 321A, or a “super mabari” graffiti in the combination image arranged at the position of the combination image display area 322A. Etc. are graffiti performed for each combination image. On the other hand, the “Uchirama Toshiko” graffiti on the upper side of the image range of the combination pre-401, the “Dachi Life” graffiti on the lower side of the image range, and the combination image display area 321A are arranged. The heart mark, face pattern, etc. written across the edge of the combination image and the background portion were performed on the combination pre-401 (the combination pre-401 was performed as a single graffiti editing target image). It is.

  In this way, the combination pre is an edited image obtained by graffiti editing a single conventional photographed image in which a plurality of combination images (photographed images, edited images, etc.) are combined in an arbitrary layout, or a plurality of edited images. It is an interesting image that does not exist in images that are simply arranged vertically or horizontally. Therefore, the satisfaction of the user who played the photo sticker creation game for creating such an image can be improved, and not only can be expected to increase so-called repeaters, but also a photo sticker on which such an image is printed. By providing, it is possible to attract the interest of users who have not yet played, and to expect them to be interested, and to expect an increase in new users.

  There is also a method of editing the captured image to generate an original stamp image and using it for editing the captured image. In this case, the captured image to be edited becomes the background image, and an arbitrary area within the region of the captured image is used. It is only possible to superimpose a stamped image on the position.

  On the other hand, the combination pre can be easily created simply by combining arbitrary photographed images (including edited images). In addition, various layouts of combinations can be performed. For example, as described above, when a stamp image created from a photographed image is combined with a photographed image, a combination pre as shown in FIG. 15 cannot be created.

  In addition, the combination pre is processed in the same way as other captured images and edited images (including those used for creating the combination pre as a combination image), thus suppressing an unnecessary increase in processing load. can do. In addition, the user can easily edit the combination doodle as in the case of other images. For example, as described above, when a stamp image is created from a photographed image, dedicated work is required such as trimming or adding a decoration image in creating the stamp. Such new and unfamiliar work may be a heavy burden for users who have to play within a limited time.

  As described above, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 can provide the user with a combination pre having various effects that have never existed before, improve the satisfaction of the user, and expect an increase in profits. .

  In the example of the flowchart shown in FIG. 13, the execution order of the processes in steps S25 to S31 is arbitrary. That is, in the case of the example of FIG. 13, the creation of the combination pre and the doodle editing are executed during “doodle editing” of the photographed image. As a result, both the photographed image or the edited image obtained by editing the photographed image can be used as the combined image, and the user can create an edited image of a rich variety. Can do. Further, since two images are displayed simultaneously on the graffiti editing input screen 300, for example, while one user is creating a combination pre, the other user performs graffiti editing of a photographed image. It becomes possible.

  In addition to this, for example, the graffiti editing may be performed on the photographed image first, and the combination pre may be created “after the graffiti editing”. For example, if it is determined in step S32 of the flowchart of FIG. 13 that the predetermined time has not elapsed and the user has not received an end instruction, the editing input screen control unit 173 performs the process in step S25. This can be realized by returning to step S26 instead of returning to step S26. As a result, the user can edit each of a plurality of captured images, create a single-frame edited image by combining the edited images, and perform further editing operations on the edited image. You can enjoy as much as you want.

  Furthermore, for example, a combination pre may be created “before graffiti editing” for a photographed image. In this case, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 16, the processing order is changed from that in the flowchart of FIG. 13, and the processing in step S <b> 25 is executed after each processing in steps S <b> 27 to S <b> 31.

  That is, after the processing of step S51 to step S54 corresponding to step S21 to step S24 is executed, the processing of step S55 to step S59 corresponding to step S26 to step S30 is executed before the processing of step S25. The In this case, the graffiti editing process for the combination pre like the process of step S31 is performed later together with other photographed images, and is omitted here.

  When the combination pre is displayed, the edit input screen control unit 173 determines whether or not the creation of the combination pre ends in step S60. If it is determined not to end, the process returns to step S56. If the subsequent processing is performed and it is determined that the processing is to end, the processing proceeds to step S61.

  In step S61, the graffiti editing unit 174 and the combination pre-graffiti editing unit 178 perform a graffiti editing process on each photographed image (including the combination pre) as in the case of step S25 and step S31.

  When the graffiti editing process ends, the edit input screen control unit 173 determines in step S62 whether a predetermined time has elapsed or an instruction to end, and if the predetermined time has not elapsed and the end has not been instructed. Then, the process returns to step S61, and the doodle editing process is repeatedly executed. If it is determined in step S62 that the predetermined time has passed or the end is instructed, the edit input screen control unit 173 advances the process to step S63, and in the same manner as in steps S33 and S34, step S63 is performed. And the process of step S64 is performed.

  As described above, by creating a pre-combination before editing a graffiti for a shot image, a shot image that has not been edited can be used as a combination image. Since the number of times of editing is one, an interesting edited image can be created in a short time.

  Furthermore, the combination pre may be created in the photographing space 32 during the photographing work. FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of functional blocks included in the control device 101 in that case. As shown in FIG. 17, the imaging processing unit 163 in this case includes an imaging preparation processing unit 511 that performs processing related to imaging preparation, an imaging execution unit 512 that images an object via the camera 71, and an image obtained by being captured. In addition to the editing target image processing unit 513 that selects an image to be subjected to graffiti editing from the captured image, the functional blocks related to the combination pre in the pattern selection unit 175, the combination image selection unit 176, and the combination pre creation unit 177 are provided. Have. In addition, a combination pre display unit 514 that displays the generated combination pre and a movement guide unit 515 that guides the user to move to the editing space 33 are also provided.

  An example of the flow of photographing processing in this case will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  When the shooting process is started, the shooting preparation processing unit 511 performs shooting preparation processing such as setting of image quality in step S81. In step S82, the photographing execution unit 512 photographs the user who is the subject, and in step S83, displays the photographed image on the photographing display unit 72 to allow the user to confirm. In step S84, the shooting execution unit 512 determines whether or not such shooting has been performed a predetermined number of times or whether a predetermined time has elapsed, and if the shooting is still repeated, the process returns to step S82, and thereafter Repeat the process. If it is determined in step S82 that a predetermined number of times of shooting has been performed or a predetermined time has elapsed, the shooting execution unit 512 advances the process to step S85. In step S85, the editing target image processing unit 513 causes the editing target image to be subjected to graffiti editing to be selected from the obtained captured images.

  After selecting the edit target image, the edit target image processing unit 513 determines whether or not to create a combination pre, and when it is determined that the combination pre is to be generated, displays a graffiti edit input screen similar to the example shown in FIG. Advances to step S87. The pattern selection unit 175 causes the user to select a combination pattern, and the combination image selection unit 176 causes the user to select a combination image in step S88. In step S89, the combination pre-creation unit 177 stores a plurality of combination images as one editing target image, and stores the image data of the combination pre as an editing target image in, for example, the RAM 107. In step S90, the combination pre display unit 514 The combination pre is displayed on the photographing display unit 72 as the selected image to be edited.

  In step S91, the edit target image processing unit 513 determines whether or not to finish the creation of the combination pre. If it is determined that the combination pre is not to be ended, the editing target image processing unit 513 returns the process to step S87 and executes the subsequent processes. If it is determined that the creation of the combination pre is finished, the editing target image processing unit 513 advances the process to step S92 and stores the editing target image including the combination pre.

  In step S93, the movement guide unit 515 determines whether or not it is possible to move to the editing space 33. If it is determined that the editing space 33 is in use and cannot be moved, the process proceeds to step S94, and the editing standby screen is displayed. Is displayed on the imaging display unit 72, and the process returns to step S93. Further, when it is determined in step S93 that the movement is possible, the movement guide unit 515 displays the editing movement guidance screen on the photographing display unit 72, and the photographing process is ended.

  Thus, by creating the combination pre during the photographing process, the user does not have to perform the combination operation in the editing space 33, so that the editing operation can be started quickly. Further, a user who is in the editing space 33 and is waiting for movement may create a combination pre using the waiting time. In this case, the user can perform each work more efficiently and quickly.

  In the above description, when the combination images are combined, the user selects and uses a desired layout pattern prepared in advance. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the layout pattern The user may be able to freely set the layout without preparing the sample.

  FIG. 19 shows functional blocks of the control apparatus 101 in that case. As shown in FIG. 19, the editing processing unit 164 in this case is provided with a layout setting unit 521 that determines the layout of the combined image instead of the pattern selection unit 175 in the case of FIG. 9.

  In this case, the editing process is executed as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 20 and is basically executed in the same manner as in the flowchart of FIG. 13, except that the combination layout pattern is prepared in advance in step S27. In step S118 corresponding to the processing in step S29, a combination pre is created, and the image data of the combination pre is stored as an image to be edited, for example, in the RAM 107. Then, in step S119, layout setting is performed. The unit 521 sets the layout based on the user instruction received by the editing input screen control unit 173.

  FIG. 21 shows a configuration example of the graffiti edit input screen 300 in that case. As shown in FIG. 21, in this case, a layout setting area 531 is displayed instead of the pattern display area 331. That is, when the user operates the combination pre-tab 303 to display the combination pre-creation area 301, the layout setting area 531 is displayed in the tool area 311 below. In the example of FIG. 21, a layout setting area 531A is displayed below the combination pre-creation area 301A.

  In this layout setting area 531, a size button 541A for adjusting the size of the selected combination image, a rotation button 542A for adjusting the rotation angle of the combination image, and a method for arbitrarily setting the overlapping method of the combination images, etc. A front button 543A and a back button 544A, and a determination button 545 for determining a setting input by the user and ending the processing are provided.

  When the user moves the combination image in the combination pre-creation area 301, the user uses the touch pen 83 to drag the image while touching the image. Further, when setting the size, rotation angle, and overlapping method of the combined image, the user operates each button in the layout setting area 531 to input an instruction, and operates the enter button 545 to determine the setting. To do. When the enter button 545 is operated, the layout setting area 531 is deleted and the tool area 311 is displayed.

  At this time, the size button 541A and the rotation button 542A may be digital buttons that change in a non-linear manner depending on the number of operations, for example, by switching among a plurality of predetermined stages. For example, an analog button whose amount of change varies linearly according to the operation time or the like may be used.

  In this way, the user can freely arrange the combination images, and can create a layout combination pre suitable for the user's own preference, thus improving the user's satisfaction with editing Can be made.

  In the graffiti edit input screen 300 in the example of FIG. 14, each element such as a combination image, a graffiti edit image, a background image, and a foreground image that constitutes a combination pre created based on a selectively determined layout pattern May be arbitrarily moved by the user, or the overlapping method (foreground / background replacement) may be changed.

  In that case, an image that the user wants to move may be detected by the touch pen 83, and the tip of the touch pen 83 may be slid to move the image. That is, when the user touches or sufficiently brings the touch pen 83 on the touch panel 141 on the combination pre, the image element displayed in the contact (proximity) portion (the frontmost part thereof) is selected as the target image, and the user Moves the touch pen 83 while keeping the touch pen 83 in contact (close proximity), and drags the target image so that the target image is moved.

  Alternatively, the user may detect an image to be switched between the foreground / background with the touch pen 83 and change the image with the “foreground / background” setting button or the like. For example, in the graffiti edit input screen 300 in the example of FIG. 14, when the enter button 345 is operated and a layout is selected, the pattern display area 331 is deleted and the tool area 311 is displayed. As shown in FIG. 5, a layout setting area 551 for switching the layer (front / rear) of the pre-combination image elements is displayed in the upper part of the tool area 311.

  In the layout setting area 551, the user operates to move the target image to the previous layer (other image elements superimposed on the previous layer of the target image and the positions before and after (layers). )) The front button 561, which is operated by the user, moves the target image to the next layer (other image elements superimposed on the next layer of the target image and the previous and next positions (layers). ) Is replaced), and a back button 562 and a determination button 563 for ending the position change (layer change) operation by the user's operation are displayed.

  In the example of FIG. 22, a layout setting area 551A having a front button 561A, a back button 562A, and an enter button 563A and a tool area 311A are displayed below the combination pre-creation area 301A. Although the description is omitted, under the same conditions, the same layout setting area 551B is displayed for the combination pre-creation area 301B.

  When the user touches or sufficiently brings the touch pen 83 on the touch panel 141 on the combination pre, the image element displayed on the contact (proximity) portion (the foremost part thereof) is selected as the target image, and further, the user When the user operates the touch pen 83 and operates the front button 561 or the rear button 562 in the layout setting area 551, the layer of the target image changes back and forth. When the user operates the touch pen 83 and operates the determination button 563, the layout is determined and the layout setting area 551 is deleted.

  In this way, the user can not only selectively determine the layout of the combination pre but also arbitrarily determine the layout, so that the layout can be determined more easily, and further A layout combination suitable for the user's own preference can be created. This improves the user's satisfaction with editing.

  In the above, the case where a combination pre is created during graffiti editing has been described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 20, but such layout setting does not depend on the creation timing of the combination pre, for example, as described above. In the case of creating a combination pre before graffiti editing, creating a combination pre after graffiti editing, or creating a combination pre in the shooting space 32, during the graffiti editing It can be applied in the same way as when creating a combination pre.

  The combination pre created as described above may be transferred to the user's mobile phone or the like. For example, in post-service processing performed for a user who has finished editing work and is waiting until printing is completed, a captured image or edited image may be transferred to a mobile phone using e-mail. In this case, the combination pre may be transferred. Further, in that case, an image of each process in which the combination pre is created may be transferred. That is, in addition to the combined pre-completion image, a captured image or an edited image used as a combined image may be transferred together.

  In the post-service processing, a plurality of services are provided. In addition to services that can transfer images, for example, services that allow users to play mini games, and users vote for popularity of captured images. There are services. There are two types of services that can transfer images: a service that sends images as e-mail attachments of a predetermined text message, and an HTML-format electronic file that is pasted into a HyperText Markup Language (HTML) document created by the user. There is a service for transmitting as mail (hereinafter referred to as HTML mail).

  The transfer destination of this image is arbitrary, and the user inputs and designates the e-mail address of the transfer destination terminal. At this time, the user must input the e-mail address accurately within a limited time. For example, when the e-mail address is complicated, it may be difficult to input the e-mail address within the time limit. Therefore, for example, when there is no next set of users in the shooting space 32, if a predetermined condition is satisfied, the limit is set within a range that does not hinder the progress of the photo sticker creation game played by another set of users. The time may be extended for a predetermined time.

  FIG. 23 shows an example of the functional block configuration of the control apparatus 101 in such a case. In FIG. 23, the post-service customer processing unit 166 transmits a course determination unit 601 that performs processing related to course selection (service selection) of the post-service customer, a time extension control unit 602 that performs processing related to the extension of the time limit for inputting an e-mail address, and the like. A transmission image selection unit 603 that performs processing related to image selection, a transmission address input unit 604 that performs processing related to input of an address of an image transmission destination, a course processing unit 605 that performs processing of each course of the subsequent customer service, and processing related to image transmission An image transmission unit 606 to perform and a movement guide processing unit 607 for guiding the movement to the photo sticker receiving area 34 are provided.

  An example of the flow of post-service processing by the post-service processing unit 166 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In step S141, the course determination unit 601 determines whether the course selected in the subsequent customer service selection performed in the editing process is an image transmission course, or an HTML mail creation course. If it is determined that a course for transmitting images has been selected, the process proceeds to step S142.

  In step S142, the time extension control unit 602 checks the usage status of the shooting space 32, determines whether or not the next set of users are using the shooting space 32, and determines that the shooting space 32 is not in use. Then, the processing proceeds to step S143, and the destination address is input so that the user can input the e-mail address accurately without panicking or can carefully examine and select the image to be transmitted without panicking. The time or the time limit for the entire post-service process is set to be extended by a predetermined time (for example, 10 seconds), and the process proceeds to step S144.

  If it is determined in step S142 that the imaging space 32 is in use, the time extension control unit 602 advances the process to step S144.

  In step S144, the transmission image selection unit 603 causes the user to select an image to be transmitted, for example, by displaying a GUI screen on the editing display unit 82. In step S145, the transmission address input unit 604 causes the user to input a destination e-mail address, for example, by displaying a GUI screen on the editing display unit 82. Further, in step S146, the course processing unit 605 executes other processing according to the selected course, and causes the user to perform other work.

  In step S147, the image transmission unit 606 transmits the image selected by the user to the transmission destination designated by the user. When the selected image is a combination pre, the image transmission unit 606 transmits the image of each step in the creation of the combination pre to a transmission destination address. For example, when the combination pre is created by combining three combination images and further editing, the image transmission unit 606 sequentially transmits each combination image, and then transmits an image of the edited content.

  When the image is transmitted, the image transmission unit 606 proceeds with the process to step S149. If it is determined in step S141 that the course for transmitting images has not been selected, the course determination unit 601 advances the process to step S148. In step S148, the course processing unit 605 executes the processing of the selected course, causes the user to play the course work, and advances the processing to step S149.

  In step S149, the movement guidance processing unit 607 causes the editing display unit 82 to display a movement guidance screen that prompts the user to move to the photo sticker receiving area 34, and ends the post-service processing.

  By performing the post-service process as described above, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 can improve the satisfaction of the user with respect to the post-service process.

  Note that, for example, when the user of the first editing space 33A is performing customer service, and the second editing space 33B is vacant (unused), the next set of users of the shooting space 32 Is guided to move to the second editing space 33B after the photographing work is completed. Therefore, even when the other editing space 33 is vacant (unused) as described above, the time limit is set to a predetermined time within a range that does not hinder the progress of the photo sticker creation game played by another set of users. It can be extended.

  That is, the time extension control unit 602 confirms not only the shooting space 32 but also the usage status of the other editing space 33, and when the shooting space 32 or the other editing space 33 is free (unused) (that is, If the predetermined conditions are met), the destination address input time or the time limit for the entire post-service process is extended by a predetermined time (for example, 10 seconds) within a range that does not hinder the progress of other sets of games. Also good.

  In this way, the user can input an e-mail address accurately without panicking or select and carefully examine images to be transmitted without panicking under a wider range of conditions. .

  Further, as described above, the user selects the number of divisions of the print area of the photo sticker at the end of the editing work. At this time, not only the number of divisions but also which image is printed in which division area. The user himself / herself can be designated.

  An example of the functional block configuration in that case is shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 25, the edit processing unit 164 in this case is the same as in the example of FIG. 9, but the edit processing unit 164 of the example of FIG. A print image selection unit 621 that performs processing related to selection is included.

  The flow of the editing process in this case is basically the same as that described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 13, but as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 26, each process of steps S21 to S34 of FIG. In Step S175, the print image selection unit 621 displays the print image selection screen as shown in FIG. 27 on the editing display unit 82, and allows the user to perform each division. A print image to be printed in the area is selected. When the process of step S175 ends, the print image selection unit 621 ends the editing process.

  FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating a display example of a print image selection screen.

  In FIG. 27, the print image selection screen 701 displays a message “Select an image you want to print!” Prompting the user to select a print image at the top of the screen. Below the message, a selected image display field 711 for displaying an image selected by the user is provided. On the left and right of the selected image display field 711, a thumbnail image display field 712A that is a list of printable images for a user who operates the touch pen 83-1, and a use that operates the touch pen 83-2. A thumbnail image display field 712B that is a list of printable images for the user is provided. Furthermore, below the selected image display field 711, a determination button 713 for determining the selected image and ending the image selection processing by the user's operation is displayed. In addition, a counter 714 for displaying the remaining time limit is displayed in the upper right corner of the print image selection screen. In FIG. 27, the remaining time is indicated by “XX”, but actually, it is indicated by a number, an indicator, or the like.

  Hereinafter, the thumbnail image display field 712A and the thumbnail image display field 712B will be referred to as a thumbnail image display field 712 when there is no need to distinguish them from each other.

  In the thumbnail image display field 712, thumbnail images of images that can be printed are displayed as a list, such as a photographed image, an edited image, a combination pre, and the like. These thumbnail images are displayed so as to be selectable by the user, and images corresponding to the thumbnail image selected by the user in this thumbnail image display field 712 (photographed image, edited image, combination pre, etc.) are selected. It is displayed in the image display field 711. In FIG. 27, square frames to which alphabets “A” to “F” are assigned are shown as thumbnail images, but in reality, images are displayed respectively.

  The selected image display field 711 is divided into the number of divided areas selected by the user, and the user selects an image to be assigned to each divided area. For example, in the example of FIG. 27 (in the case of 2 × 2 four divisions), the user designates the upper left divided area in the selected image display field 711 and “A” is displayed in the thumbnail image display field 712. When a thumbnail image is selected, an image corresponding to the thumbnail image is displayed in the upper left divided area selected by the user in the selected image display field 711. Further, “select” indicating that the thumbnail has been selected is displayed on the selected thumbnail image. In FIG. 27, “A” is displayed in the upper left divided area, indicating that an image corresponding to the thumbnail selected by the user is displayed.

  Thus, the user can easily assign an arbitrary image to an arbitrary divided area on the print image selection screen 701. For example, the divided area displayed in the selected image display field 711 is divided into two as indicated by the dotted line, and the area that can be specified by the user who operates the touch pen 83-1 and the touch pen 83-2 are operated. You may make it classify | categorize into the area | region which a user can designate. For example, in the case of FIG. 27, with respect to the two divided areas on the left side where “A” and “E” are displayed, the user operating the touch pen 83-1 displays the thumbnail images displayed in the thumbnail image display field 712 A. By selecting, an image can be assigned, and the two divided areas on the right side where “C” and “D” are displayed are displayed in the thumbnail image display field 712B by the user operating the touch pen 83-2. The selected thumbnail image may be selected so that the image can be assigned.

  By doing so, the images selected by each user are printed in a grouped position (area) on the photo sticker, so that when the photo sticker is cut, only the images that each user likes are easily obtained. be able to. For example, in the example of FIG. 27, by separating the photo sticker along the dotted line position of the selected image display field 711, the left and right users can obtain only the image selected by themselves.

  When the image selection is completed as described above, the user operates the enter button 713 to end the selection of the print image.

  Note that the image selection method is arbitrary. For example, when the user drags and drops the thumbnail image in the thumbnail image display field 712 to the desired divided area in the selected image display field 711, the image to be assigned to the divided area is displayed. May be selected.

  In addition, the dotted line shown in the selected image display field 711 is given for convenience of explanation, and may of course not be displayed actually. Furthermore, the layout of the divided regions shown in FIG. 27 is an example, and other layouts may be used as long as the layout is selected by the user.

  As described above, by enabling the user to select an image to be printed on the photo sticker and to specify that the image is printed at a desired position, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 is more suitable for the user's preference. Photo stickers can be provided. Further, since the image is selected using a print image selection screen as shown in FIG. 27, the user can easily select an image.

  The series of processes described above can be executed by hardware or can be executed by software. When the above-described series of processing is executed by software, a program constituting the software is installed from a network or a recording medium.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 8, the recording medium is distributed to distribute the program to the administrator of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 separately from the apparatus main body, and is a magnetic disk (flexible disk) on which the program is recorded. Disk), optical disk (including CD-ROM (compact disk-read only memory), DVD (digital versatile disk)), magneto-optical disk (including MD (mini-disk) (registered trademark)), or semiconductor memory In addition to the removable medium 105 made up of, etc., it is composed of a ROM 106 on which a program is recorded and a hard disk included in the storage unit 102 distributed to the administrator in a state of being incorporated in the apparatus main body in advance. The

  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.

  In the above, the print medium is not limited to the sticker paper, and for example, the print medium is printed on a predetermined size paper, a poster paper, a card such as a telephone card, or a cloth such as a T-shirt. Also good.

  Further, in this specification, the system represents the entire apparatus constituted by a plurality of apparatuses. In the above, the configuration described as one device may be divided and configured as a plurality of devices. Conversely, the configurations described above as a plurality of devices may be combined into a single device. Of course, configurations other than those described above may be added to the configuration of each device. Furthermore, if the configuration and operation of the entire system are substantially the same, a part of the configuration of a certain device may be included in the configuration of another device.

It is a perspective view which shows the example of one Embodiment of the photograph sticker production apparatus to which this invention is applied. It is a perspective view from the other angle of the photograph sticker production apparatus of FIG. It is a perspective view which shows the example of installation of the photograph sticker production apparatus of FIG. It is a figure explaining a user's space movement. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the front of a front unit. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the side surface of an edit unit. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the other side of an edit unit. It is a block diagram which shows the example of an internal structure of a photograph sticker production apparatus. It is a functional block diagram which shows the detailed structural example of a control apparatus. It is a figure which shows the structural example of a combination pre. It is a figure which shows the example of a photograph sticker. It is a flowchart explaining the example of the flow of photograph sticker creation game processing. It is a flowchart explaining the example of the flow of an edit process. It is a figure which shows the example of a doodle edit input screen. It is a figure which shows the example of a combination pre. It is a flowchart explaining the other example of the flow of an edit process. It is a functional block diagram which shows the other structural example of a control apparatus. It is a flowchart explaining the example of the flow of an imaging | photography process. It is a functional block diagram which shows the further another structural example of a control apparatus. It is a flowchart explaining the further another example of the flow of an edit process. It is a figure which shows the other example of a doodle edit input screen. It is a figure which shows the further another example of a graffiti edit input screen. It is a functional block diagram which shows the further another structural example of a control apparatus. It is a flowchart explaining the example of the flow of a subsequent customer service process. It is a functional block diagram which shows the further another structural example of a control apparatus. It is a flowchart explaining the further another example of the flow of an edit process. It is a figure which shows the structural example of a print image selection screen.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Photo sticker creation apparatus 12 Shooting unit 13 Editing unit 173 Editing input screen control part 175 Pattern selection part 176 Combination image selection part 177 Combination pre creation part 178 Combination pre graffiti edit part 301A Combination pre creation area 303A and 303B Combination pre tab 309 Combination pre Display area 321A to 323A Combination image display area 331A Pattern display area 401 Combination pre 521 Layout setting section 531A Layout setting area 551A Layout setting area 602 Time extension control section 606 Image transmission section 621 Print image selection section 701 Print image selection screen

Claims (10)

The user is photographed as a subject, the user performs graffiti editing input on the obtained image, the image is printed on a predetermined sticker sheet to create a photo sticker, and the photo sticker is used as a product. A photo sticker creation device provided to a user,
Photographing means for photographing the user as a subject;
First editing means for performing graffiti editing on a photographed image obtained by photographing by the photographing means based on the input of the user;
A combination image selection means for selecting the photographed image or an edited image subjected to graffiti editing by the first editing means as a combination image;
Combining a plurality of the combination images selected by the combination image selection unit in a predetermined area in an arbitrary position, size, angle, and overlapping order to compose one composite image Image creation means;
Second editing means for performing graffiti editing on the composite image created by the composite image creation means based on the user's input;
Printing means for printing at least the edited composite image that has been subjected to graffiti editing by the second editing means on the sticker sheet ;
Address input receiving means for receiving an input of an e-mail address of an image transmission destination by the user;
Transmission image selection means for allowing the user to select an image to be transmitted;
Image transmission means for transmitting the image selected by the transmission image selection means to the transmission destination for which the e-mail address has been received by the address input reception means;
A photo sticker creating apparatus , comprising: a time extension control means for extending a time limit for inputting the e-mail address by the address input receiving means when a predetermined condition is satisfied . A type selection unit that prepares a plurality of candidates for the type, position, size, angle, and overlapping order of the combination image in the predetermined region in advance, and allows the user to select one of the candidates. Prepared,
The photo sticker creating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the composite image creating unit synthesizes the plurality of combination images selected by the combination image selecting unit based on the mold selected by the mold selecting unit. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a setting unit that allows the user to arbitrarily set a position, a size, an angle, and an overlapping order of the combination image in the composite image created by the composite image creation unit. Photo sticker creation device. 4. The photo sticker creating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the composite image creating unit synthesizes the captured image as the combined image before graffiti editing by the first editing unit is started. 5. 4. The photo sticker creating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the composite image creating unit synthesizes the photographed image or the edited image as the combination image during graffiti editing by the first editing unit. 5. 4. The composite image creation unit synthesizes the edited image as the combination image after graffiti editing has been completed for all photographed images that can be edited by the first editing unit. 4. The photo sticker making apparatus as described. When the edited composite image that has been subjected to graffiti editing by the second editing unit is selected by the transmission image selection unit, the image transmission unit includes the edited composite image together with the edited composite image. The photographic sticker creating apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein a plurality of the combined images used for creation are also transmitted. The user is photographed as a subject, the user performs graffiti editing input on the obtained image, the image is printed on a predetermined sticker sheet to create a photo sticker, and the photo sticker is used as a product. A method of creating a photo sticker for a photo sticker creating device provided to a user,
A photographing step of photographing the user as a subject;
A first editing step for performing graffiti editing on a photographed image obtained by the photographing process of the photographing step based on the input of the user;
A combination image selection step of selecting, as a combination image, the captured image or an edited image subjected to graffiti editing by the processing of the first editing step;
A plurality of the combination images selected by the processing of the combination image selection step are arranged in a predetermined area in an arbitrary position, size, angle, and overlapping order and synthesized to create one composite image. A composite image creation step,
A second editing step for performing graffiti editing on the composite image created by the composite image creation step based on the user's input;
At least a printing step for printing the edited composite image on which the graffiti editing has been performed by the processing of the second editing step on the sticker sheet ;
An address input receiving step for receiving an input of an e-mail address of an image transmission destination by the user;
A transmission image selection step for allowing the user to select an image to be transmitted; and
An image transmission step of transmitting the image selected by the process of the transmission image selection step to the transmission destination from which the e-mail address has been received by the process of the address input reception step;
And a time extension control step of extending a time limit for inputting the e-mail address by the processing of the address input receiving step when a predetermined condition is satisfied . The user is photographed as a subject, the user performs graffiti editing input on the obtained image, the image is printed on a predetermined sticker sheet to create a photo sticker, and the photo sticker is used as a product. A computer-executable program that controls processing to be provided to a user,
A photographing step of photographing the user as a subject;
A first editing step for performing graffiti editing on a photographed image obtained by the photographing process of the photographing step based on the input of the user;
A combination image selection step of selecting, as a combination image, the captured image or an edited image subjected to graffiti editing by the processing of the first editing step;
A plurality of the combination images selected by the processing of the combination image selection step are arranged in a predetermined area in an arbitrary position, size, angle, and overlapping order and synthesized to create one composite image. A composite image creation step,
A second editing step for performing graffiti editing on the composite image created by the composite image creation step based on the user's input;
At least a printing step for printing the edited composite image on which the graffiti editing has been performed by the processing of the second editing step on the sticker sheet ;
An address input receiving step for receiving an input of an e-mail address of an image transmission destination by the user;
A transmission image selection step for allowing the user to select an image to be transmitted; and
An image transmission step of transmitting the image selected by the process of the transmission image selection step to the transmission destination from which the e-mail address has been received by the process of the address input reception step;
A program for causing a computer to execute a time extension control step of extending a time limit for input of the e-mail address by the processing of the address input reception step when a predetermined condition is satisfied . The user is photographed as a subject, the user performs graffiti editing input on the obtained image, the image is printed on a predetermined sticker sheet to create a photo sticker, and the photo sticker is used as a product. A photo sticker creation device provided to a user,
Photographing means for photographing the user as a subject;
An editing means for performing graffiti editing on a photographed image obtained by photographing by the photographing means based on the input of the user;
Printing means for printing the edited image on which the graffiti editing has been performed by the editing means on the sticker sheet;
Address input receiving means for receiving an input of an e-mail address of an image transmission destination by the user;
Transmission image selection means for allowing the user to select an image to be transmitted;
Image transmission means for transmitting the image selected by the transmission image selection means to the transmission destination for which the e-mail address has been received by the address input reception means;
If a predetermined condition is satisfied, a time extension control means for extending a time limit for inputting the e-mail address by the address input receiving means;
A photo sticker creating apparatus comprising:

Images