JP2004005221A - Electronic device, printing system, printing method and program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an electronic device and a printing system that provides a satisfactory image as desired by a print orderer who orders a print. <P>SOLUTION: In the printing system 100, a server 10 manages information on a print orderer in correlation with a print orderer ID; an accepting terminal 20 reads out print-ordered image information and additional information added to the image information from a recording memory 47 to acquire the print orderer ID, acquires the information on the print orderer from the server 10 according to the print orderer ID, and sets printing conditions desired by the print orderer; and a printer 30 makes printing under the printing conditions. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an electronic device, a printing system, a printing method, and a program.
[0002]
[Prior art]
2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in a digital camera, an EXIF (Exchange Image File Format for Digital Still Camera) standard for recording various information on a captured image such as a shooting date and time, a title, an aperture value, and an exposure correction value as additional information is defined. Images can be searched and managed using a personal computer or the like based on the additional information recorded on the image recording device side such as a digital camera. Further, by referring to this additional information on the image output device side such as a printer, it is possible to reproduce an image that has been subjected to optimal image processing based on the conditions at the time of shooting.
[0003]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, these are just enough to reproduce the conditions at the time of shooting, and even if the photographer's intentions are fully utilized, if they receive image information taken with another person's camera or borrow a digital camera, etc. However, an image according to the intention of the print orderer who is not the photographer is not always reproduced.
[0004]
An object of the present invention is to provide an electronic device and a print system that can provide a highly satisfactory image according to the intention of a print orderer who orders a print.
[0005]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
The invention according to claim 1 is an electronic device,
Input means for inputting identification information indicating a print orderer who places a print order for image information recorded on a recording medium,
An adding unit that adds, to the image information, additional information including identification information indicating a print orderer input by the input unit;
It is characterized by having.
[0006]
According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the electronic device according to the first aspect,
The adding means adds additional information including information on generation of the image information to the image information.
[0007]
The invention according to claim 6 is
On the computer,
A function for inputting identification information indicating a print orderer who places a print order for image information recorded on a recording medium,
An additional function of adding, to the image information, additional information including identification information indicating a print orderer input by the input unit;
It is characterized by being a program for realizing.
[0008]
According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the program according to the sixth aspect,
The additional function is characterized in that additional information including information on generation of the image information is added to the image information.
[0009]
According to the first, second, sixth, and seventh aspects of the present invention, it is possible to add identification information indicating a print orderer who places a print order or additional information including information on generation of image information to image information. It is possible to acquire identification information indicating a print orderer or information on generation of image information at the time of printing, and to provide an image with a high degree of satisfaction intended by the print orderer using these pieces of information. It becomes possible.
[0010]
The invention according to claim 3 is
A receiving terminal that is connected to a printer that prints image information and receives a print order for image information to which identification information indicating a print orderer and additional information including information on generation of image information are added; And a server that manages the identification information by the identification information indicating the print orderer, and a print system connected via a network,
The reception terminal,
Reading means for reading the image information for which the print order has been received, reading identification information indicating a print orderer from additional information added to the image information, and information on generation of image information;
Transmitting means for transmitting identification information indicating the print orderer read by the reading means to the server, and transmitting a request for information on the print orderer corresponding to the identification information,
The server comprises:
Storage means for storing information on the print orderer in association with identification information indicating the print orderer;
When the identification information indicating the print orderer is transmitted from the reception terminal and a request for information regarding the print orderer is transmitted, the information regarding the print orderer corresponding to the identification information indicating the print orderer is read from the storage unit. Transmitting means for transmitting to the reception terminal by
The reception terminal,
Receiving means for receiving information about the print orderer transmitted from the server,
Setting means for setting print processing conditions based on at least one of information on a print orderer received by the receiving means and information on generation of image information read by the reading means;
Output means for outputting the print processing conditions set by the setting means to the printer together with the image information read by the reading means,
The printer prints image information output from the reception terminal according to print processing conditions output together with the image information.
[0011]
The invention according to claim 5 is
A receiving terminal that is connected to a printer that prints image information and receives a print order for image information to which identification information indicating a print orderer and additional information including information on generation of image information are added; A server that manages the print orderer by identification information indicating the print orderer, and a print method in a print system connected via a network,
The receiving terminal reads the image information for which the print order has been received, a reading step of reading identification information indicating a print orderer from additional information added to the image information, and information regarding generation of image information,
A step in which the reception terminal transmits identification information indicating the print orderer read in the reading step to the server, and transmits a request for information regarding the print orderer corresponding to the identification information;
A step in which the server stores information on the print orderer in a storage unit in association with identification information indicating the print orderer;
When the server receives the identification information indicating the print orderer from the reception terminal and transmits a request for information regarding the print orderer, the server stores the information regarding the print orderer corresponding to the identification information indicating the print orderer. Reading from the means and transmitting to the reception terminal;
A receiving step in which the reception terminal receives information about the print orderer transmitted from the server,
A setting step in which the reception terminal sets a print processing condition based on at least one of information on the print orderer received in the receiving step and information on generation of image information read in the reading step;
A step in which the reception terminal outputs the print processing conditions set in the setting step to the printer together with the image information read in the reading step,
The printer prints the image information output from the reception terminal according to the print processing conditions output together with the image information,
It is characterized by including.
[0012]
The invention according to claim 8 is
On the computer,
By reading the image information to which the additional information including the identification information indicating the print orderer who performs the print order and the information regarding the generation of the image information is added, and indicating the print orderer from the additional information added to the image information A reading function for reading identification information and information related to generation of image information,
The identification information indicating the print orderer read by the reading function is transmitted to a server that manages the information on the print orderer by the identification information indicating the print orderer, and the information on the print orderer corresponding to the identification information is transmitted. The ability to send requests,
A function for receiving information about the print orderer transmitted from the server, and a print processing condition based on at least one of information about the print orderer and information about generation of image information read by the reading function. Function to set
A function of causing the printer to output the print processing conditions together with the image information read by the reading function,
It is characterized by being a program for realizing.
[0013]
According to the third, fifth, and eighth aspects of the present invention, the receiving terminal reads the identification information indicating the print orderer and the information related to the generation of the image information from the additional information of the image information for which the print order has been received. Information about the print orderer corresponding to the identification information indicating the orderer is obtained from the server, and the print processing condition is determined based on one of the obtained information on the print orderer and the information on the generation of the read image information. After setting, the printer prints the image information in accordance with the print processing conditions, so that it is possible to provide a high-satisfaction image intended by the print orderer.
[0014]
According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the printing system according to the third aspect,
In the reception terminal,
Input means for inputting update information on the print orderer,
The transmitting unit transmits the update information on the print orderer input by the input unit in association with the identification information indicating the print orderer,
In the server,
When the update information about the print orderer is transmitted from the reception terminal in association with the identification information indicating the print orderer, the storage unit relates to the print orderer corresponding to the identification information based on the update information. It is characterized in that information is updated and stored.
[0015]
According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in the program according to the eighth aspect,
A function for inputting update information regarding the print orderer;
A function of transmitting update information about the print orderer to the server in association with identification information indicating the print orderer;
Is further included.
[0016]
According to the fourth and ninth aspects of the present invention, the receiving terminal transmits update information on the print orderer to the server in association with the identification information indicating the print orderer, and the server performs the process based on the transmitted update information. Since the information on the print orderer corresponding to the transmitted print orderer identification information is updated and stored, an image with a higher degree of satisfaction can be provided based on the latest information on the print orderer.
[0017]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.
First, the configuration will be described.
FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram illustrating the overall configuration of a print system 100 according to the present embodiment.
In FIG. 1, a print system 100 is capable of transmitting and receiving data so that a server 10 having an information DB 16a and a reception terminal 20 connected to a printer 30 can refer to each other via a network N. The reception terminal 20 is configured to be able to read a recording memory 47 that records an image captured by the digital camera 40.
[0018]
In the present embodiment, one server 10 and two reception terminals 20 are described as being connected to the network N, but the number and installation locations are not particularly limited.
[0019]
In FIG. 1, a print system 100 manages information relating to a print orderer by a server 10 in association with a print orderer ID which is identification information indicating the print orderer. The additional information added to the image information is read out from the recording memory 47 to obtain a print orderer ID, and information about the print orderer is obtained from the server 10 based on the print orderer ID, and the print orderer's intended print is obtained. The processing conditions are set, and the printer 30 performs the print processing under the print processing conditions. It is assumed that the print orderer ID is issued in advance as a unique one to a user who has previously registered for the print service provided by the print system 100, and the server 10 relates to the user registered at the time of registration, that is, the print orderer ID. It is assumed that various information on the orderer is managed in association with the ID number of the print orderer.
[0020]
The network N is a network to which various communication lines such as a telephone line network, a dedicated line, a mobile communication network, a communication satellite network, and a CATV line network can be applied, and a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area). Network, the Internet, etc., can be applied.
[0021]
Next, each device constituting the print system 100 will be described in detail.
First, each component of the server 10 will be described in detail with reference to FIG.
2, the server 10 includes a CPU 11, an input unit 12, a display unit 13, a communication control unit 14, a RAM 15, and a storage unit 16, and each unit is connected by a bus 17.
[0022]
The CPU 11 reads out system programs and various control programs stored in the storage unit 16 and expands them in the RAM 15, and centrally controls the operation of each unit according to the programs. Further, the CPU 11 executes various processes in accordance with the program developed in the RAM 15, stores the processing results in the RAM 15 and displays the processing results on the display unit 13, and stores the processing results stored in the RAM 15 in a predetermined storage destination of the storage unit 16. Let it.
[0023]
Further, the CPU 11 reads out a print processing program stored in the storage unit 16 and executes print processing described later.
In the printing process, when the print orderer ID is presented from the reception terminal 20 and the request for the print orderer information is received from the reception terminal 20, the CPU 11 searches the print orderer information corresponding to the print orderer ID, and finds the corresponding print orderer. If there is no information, the fact is notified to the reception terminal 20, and if there is corresponding print orderer information, the fact is notified to the reception terminal 20 and the corresponding print orderer information is transmitted. Further, when the update information of the print orderer information is transmitted from the reception terminal 20, the corresponding print orderer information in the information DB 16a is updated based on the update information.
[0024]
The input unit 12 includes various function keys such as cursor keys and numeric keys, and outputs a press signal corresponding to the pressed key to the CPU 11. Note that the input unit 12 may include a pointing device such as a mouse and a touch panel, and other input devices as necessary.
[0025]
The display unit 13 is configured by an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube), or the like. The display unit 13 transmits and receives various processing results, an input instruction from the input unit 12, and a communication control unit 14 according to a display instruction from the CPU 11. Display various information.
[0026]
The communication control means 14 is an interface connectable to a transmission medium connected to the network N, and is constituted by a modem, a terminal adapter, a LAN adapter such as 100BASE-TX, 10BASE-T, or the like. Further, the communication control unit 14 outputs the print orderer ID transmitted from the reception terminal 20 via the network N to the CPU 11 in the print processing, and transmits the information on the print orderer input from the CPU 11 to the reception terminal 20. I do. That is, the communication control unit 14 has a function as a transmission unit in the server.
[0027]
A RAM (Random Access Memory) 15 forms a work area for temporarily storing various programs executed by the CPU 11, data processed by the various programs, and the like.
[0028]
The storage unit 16 has a recording medium (not shown) in which programs, data, and the like are stored in advance, and the recording medium is a magnetic or optical recording medium or a semiconductor memory. The recording medium is fixedly provided in the storage unit 16 or is detachably mounted. The recording medium includes a system program, various control programs, and data processed by the various control programs. Is stored. The program executes an operation according to a computer-readable program code.
[0029]
The storage unit 16 has an information DB (Data Base) 16b inside.
The information DB 16a stores various types of information on the print orderer in association with the print orderer ID. Various information about the print orderer includes, for example, personal information such as the name, age, gender, occupation, and e-mail address of the print orderer, hobbies, preference information such as favorite foods, or when printing a photographed image. The information includes information on conditions preferred by the print orderer, for example, image processing conditions such as density characteristics and gradation characteristics of print images, sharpness and graininess, and print conditions such as print size and trimming conditions. It should be noted that the above-described various information on the print orderer is merely an example, and is not limited thereto as long as it is information on the print orderer and print conditions. That is, the information DB 16a has a function as a storage unit in the server.
[0030]
Next, each unit constituting the reception terminal 20 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 3, the reception terminal 20 includes a CPU 21, an input unit 22, a display unit 23, a communication control unit 24, a RAM 25, a storage unit 26, an image reading unit 27, and a printer I / F 28, and each unit is connected by a bus 29. You. Note that detailed description of each unit having the same function as the server 10 is omitted.
[0031]
The CPU 21 reads out system programs and various control programs stored in the storage unit 26, expands them in the RAM 25, and centrally controls the operation of each unit according to the programs. Further, the CPU 21 executes various processes in accordance with the program developed in the RAM 25, stores the processing results in the RAM 25 and displays them on the display unit 23, and stores the processing results stored in the RAM 25 in a predetermined storage destination of the storage unit 26. Let it.
[0032]
Further, the CPU 21 reads out a print processing program stored in the storage unit 26 and executes print processing described later.
In the print process, the CPU 21 reads the image information in the recording memory 47 by the image reading unit 27, and reads the print orderer information included in the additional information and the information related to the generation of the image information. Next, when a confirmation response as to whether the read print orderer ID is correct is input from the input unit 22, if a response is input that the print orderer ID is incorrect, the correct print orderer ID is input. Then, the print orderer ID included in the additional information of the image information is rewritten.
[0033]
Next, the correct print orderer ID is transmitted to the server 10 to request the print orderer information. When the server 10 notifies that there is no print orderer information corresponding to the print orderer ID, the read image information is read. When print processing information is generated based on the generation information and output to the printer 30 together with the image information, and printing is performed in accordance with the print processing information, while the server 10 notifies that there is the corresponding print orderer information, Generates print processing information based on the print orderer information and information related to the generation of image information, outputs the print processing information to the printer 30 together with the image information, and causes the printer 30 to execute printing in accordance with the print processing information. Next, when a complaint from the print orderer is input from the input unit 22, the content of the claim is transmitted to the server 10 in association with the corresponding print orderer ID as update information of the print orderer information. That is, the CPU 21 has a function as a setting unit in the reception terminal.
[0034]
The input unit 22 includes various function keys such as cursor keys and numeric keys, and outputs a press signal corresponding to the pressed key to the CPU 11. Note that the input unit 12 may include a pointing device such as a mouse and a touch panel, and other input devices as necessary. That is, the input unit 22 has a function as an input unit in the reception terminal.
[0035]
The communication control unit 24 is an interface connectable to a transmission medium connected to the network N, and includes a modem, a terminal adapter, a LAN adapter such as 100BASE-TX, 10BASE-T, or the like. That is, the communication control unit 24 has a function as a transmission unit and a reception unit in the reception terminal.
[0036]
The storage unit 26 has a recording medium (not shown) in which programs, data, and the like are stored in advance, and the recording medium is a magnetic or optical recording medium or a semiconductor memory. The recording medium is fixedly provided in the storage unit 26 or removably mounted. The recording medium includes a system program, various control programs, and data processed by the various control programs. Is stored. The program executes an operation according to a computer-readable program code.
[0037]
The image reading section 27 reads the image information and the additional information added to the image information from the recording medium instructed to read, and outputs the read various information to the CPU 21. That is, the image reading unit 27 has a function as a reading unit in the reception terminal.
[0038]
The printer I / F 28 is an interface connected to the printer 30, and outputs various types of input information to the printer. That is, the printer I / F 28 has a function as an output unit in the reception terminal.
[0039]
Next, the printer 30 will be described. When image information is input together with the print processing information from the reception terminal 20, the printer 30 prints the image information according to the print processing information.
[0040]
Next, each part of the digital camera 40 will be described in detail with reference to FIG.
4, the digital camera 40 includes a CPU 41, an imaging unit 42, an image processing unit 43, a display unit 44, an operation unit 45, a memory 46, a recording memory 47, and an EEPROM 48, and each unit is connected by a bus 49.
[0041]
The CPU 41 develops a designated program from various application programs related to imaging stored in the EEPROM 48 into a work area (not shown), and according to data input from each component such as the operation unit 45, , Various processes such as a photographing process and an additional information setting process are executed, and the processing results are displayed on the display unit 44.
[0042]
Further, the CPU 41 reads the additional information setting processing program stored in the EEPROM 48 and executes the additional information setting processing described later.
In the additional information setting process, the CPU 41 sets various items to be added as additional information, and sets the print orderer ID item. Next, in response to the photographing instruction, the photographing unit 42 causes the photographing unit 42 to perform photographing, records various information on the photographed image in a corresponding item of the additional information, and allows the print orderer ID to be input to enter the print orderer ID item. After recording the input ID number, additional information in which the various information is recorded is added to the image information. That is, the CPU 41 has a function as an additional unit in the electronic device.
[0043]
The imaging unit 42 includes a lens unit including a focus lens group that captures an optical image of the subject, an aperture for adjusting the amount of light flux transmitted through the lens unit, and an optical image of the subject formed on the optical path of the lens unit. It is configured by a CCD or the like that performs photoelectric conversion, and outputs an image signal that has been photoelectrically converted to an image processing unit.
[0044]
When the image processing unit 43 converts the photoelectrically converted image signal into digital image information, the image processing unit 43 performs conversion of image brightness, gradation, hue, saturation, and the like using a conversion table instructed by the CPU 41 to perform various types of image processing. Is applied.
[0045]
The display unit 44 is configured by an LCD or the like, and displays an image photographed in accordance with a display instruction from the CPU 41, a menu screen related to photographing, and the like.
The operation unit 45 includes various function buttons such as a release button for releasing a shutter and a menu selection button, and generates a press signal corresponding to the pressed button and outputs the signal to the CPU 41. That is, the operation unit 45 has a function as an input unit in the electronic device.
[0046]
The memory 46 includes a buffer memory and the like, and temporarily stores image information processed by the image processing unit 43. The memory 46 outputs the image information instructed to be recorded by the CPU 41 to the recording memory 47.
[0047]
The recording memory 47 is a recording memory including a semiconductor memory or the like, and is a recording medium for recording image information input from the memory 46. The recording memory 47 may be a built-in memory such as a flash memory, a removable memory card or a memory stick, or a magnetic recording medium such as a hard disk or a floppy (registered trademark) disk. It may be a medium or the like.
[0048]
The EEPROM 48 stores various application programs, processing programs, and the like related to photographing of the digital camera 40.
[0049]
Next, the operation of the present embodiment will be described.
First, the additional information setting process executed by the digital camera 40 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. As a premise of the description, a program for executing the processing described below is stored in the storage unit 16 in the form of a computer-readable program code, and the CPU 41 executes an operation according to the program code. Execute sequentially.
[0050]
Further, the user subscribes to a print service provided by the print system 100 in advance, and obtains personal information and preference information of the user, or information on print conditions preferred by the user, such as density characteristics and gradation characteristics of a print image, print size, and the like. It is assumed that the trimming conditions and the like are registered, and the print orderer ID is issued to the user so as to be unique to the registration.
[0051]
First, prior to photographing, the CPU 41 of the digital camera 40 displays an input screen on the display unit 44 to urge the user to input a print orderer ID, and receives a print orderer ID from the user via the operation unit 45. Then, an item of additional information to be added to the photographed image is set, and an item of a print orderer ID is set as one of the items (step S1). Next, the CPU 41 waits for an input of a photographing instruction from the operation unit 45, and when the photographing instruction is input, executes photographing by the photographing unit 42 (step S2), and converts the photographed image photographed by the image processing unit 43 into an image. Perform processing. Next, the CPU 41 adds additional information including a print orderer ID and information on generation of image information to the captured image (step S3), and ends the additional information setting process.
[0052]
Describing the additional information specifically, information corresponding to each item as shown in FIG. 6 is included. In FIG. 6, the items set in step S1 are shown on the left side via "=", and the information corresponding to each set item is shown on the right side via "=". For example, “Data Time” indicates an item of the shooting date and time, and it is recorded that the shooting was performed at 18:03:52 on August 23, 2001. The print orderer ID is indicated by the item “Print Order ID”, and the ID number of “20020411 JPTK002A001” is recorded.
[0053]
As shown in FIG. 6, the additional information includes an image recording apparatus for recording items such as a focal length, an exposure time, the use of a flash, the setting of a light source and other shooting conditions, and an image such as a camera manufacturer name and a model name. , And information items related to the generation of image information. The information included in the additional information shown in FIG. 6 is one example, and may be other information such as edge strength, noise level, and weather information. As described above, the additional information includes various information related to the generation of the image information.
[0054]
Next, the user takes out the recording memory 47 in which the image information captured by the digital camera 40 and recorded with the additional information is recorded from the digital camera 40, and transfers the recording memory 47 to a printing company that performs a print process of the image information. The following description will be made on the assumption that the print order is handed over, the print trader has the reception terminal 20 read the recording memory 47, and the print operation has been started.
[0055]
In the present embodiment, the recording memory 47 is described as a memory that can be attached to and detached from the digital camera 40. However, when the recording memory 47 is fixedly provided in the digital camera 40, a CD-R ( The image information is output to a removable recording medium such as a CD-Recordable, and the image information to be printed in the CD-R is read by the reception terminal 20, or the digital camera 40 and the reception terminal 20 are connected by a transmission medium. A connection may be made, and the image information may be output to the reception terminal 20 so that the reception terminal 20 reads the image information to be printed. Further, the image information may be read by providing a scanner for reading image information recorded on a recording medium such as a film.
[0056]
FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a print process executed by the server 10 and the reception terminal 20. As a premise of the description of the operation, a program for implementing the processing described below is stored in the storage units 16 and 26 of each device in the form of a computer-readable program code. 21 sequentially executes an operation according to the program code.
[0057]
7, first, the CPU 21 of the reception terminal 20 causes the image reading unit 27 to read the image information in the recording memory 47 and read the additional information added to the image information to print orderer ID and image information. The information about the generation of is generated (step S101).
[0058]
Next, the acquired print orderer ID is displayed on the display unit 23, prompting the user to confirm whether the print orderer ID is correct, and waits for a confirmation response from the input unit 22 (step S102). The print trader who sees the print orderer ID displayed on the display unit 23 checks with the print orderer whether the print orderer ID is correct, and receives a response indicating that the print orderer is correct if the ID is correct. If the print orderer ID is input from the section 22 and the print orderer ID is incorrect, for example, if a user having an ID number different from the print orderer ID recorded by the digital camera 40 at the time of shooting is ordering prints, the print orderer A response that the ID is incorrect is input from the input unit 22 of the reception terminal 20.
[0059]
If a response that the displayed print orderer ID is correct is input from the input unit 22, the CPU 21 proceeds to step S104. If a response that the print orderer ID is incorrect is input, the CPU 21 corrects the print orderer ID. The number is input from the input unit 22, and the print orderer ID recorded in the additional information of the read image information is rewritten to the correct print orderer ID (step S103). However, when the print orderer does not have the print orderer ID, it is possible to take a countermeasure such as, for example, ordering the print without entering the print orderer ID.
[0060]
Next, the CPU 21 makes an inquiry to the server 10 via the communication control unit 24, transmits the print orderer ID confirmed to be correct, and requests print orderer information (step S104). The CPU 11 of the server 10 that has been requested for the print orderer information searches the print orderer information corresponding to the transmitted print orderer ID (step S105).
[0061]
When the relevant print orderer information is detected, the CPU 11 notifies the presence of the relevant information via the communication control unit 14 and transmits the print orderer information to the reception terminal 20, and the corresponding print orderer information is received. If no information is detected, the reception terminal 20 is notified that there is no corresponding information (step S106).
[0062]
The CPU 21 of the reception terminal 20 waits for the notification of the search result from the server 10 (step S107), and when the server 10 notifies that there is no information corresponding to the transmitted print orderer ID, the image reading unit 27. The print processing information is generated based on the information regarding the generation of the image information read by the printer, and is output to the print 40 together with the image information, and the print processing is performed according to the print processing information (step S108). For example, if the information regarding the generation of image information includes information indicating that it is evening, print processing information in which print processing conditions are set such that the image is colored red to match the evening atmosphere and the brightness is reduced so that the entire image becomes darker. Generate.
[0063]
On the other hand, when it is notified from the server 10 that there is corresponding information, the print orderer information corresponding to the print orderer ID is received (step S109). Next, the CPU 21 generates print processing information based on the received print orderer information and the information related to the generation of the image information, outputs the generated print processing information to the printer 30 together with the image information to be printed, and causes the printer 30 to execute printing in accordance with the print processing information. (Step S110). More specifically, for example, the acquired print orderer information includes information on print conditions in which the print orderer prefers a soft image with a low density and a soft tone, and prefers an L-plate size of 127 × 89. If the information on the generation of the image information includes the information indicating that it is evening as described above, the image processing conditions are further softened and the brightness is increased, and the print conditions such as the print conditions for setting the print size to the L size are used. Generate print processing information in which print processing conditions are set.
[0064]
At the time of printing, the processing contents are printed on the back print of the print image so that the print orderer can understand the processing conditions under which the print was made. Further, the reception terminal 20 stores advertisement information and service information such as event information and product information in advance, and based on the print orderer's personal information, preference information, and characteristic information based on the print orderer information received from the server 10. Various advertisements and service information according to the print orderer may be provided to the print orderer along with the printed image.
[0065]
Note that the setting conditions preferred by the print orderer included in the print processing information described above are the conditions as shown in FIG. In FIG. 8, “Default Size = L” indicates that printing is performed in the L version unless otherwise specified, and “Default Tone = −1.0” indicates that the gradation is changed by 1.0 level in the soft tone direction. Is shown. Here, when "Default Tone = + 1.0" is designated, it indicates that the gradation is changed by 1.0 level in the high contrast direction, and the effect of the gradation increases as the number increases. Similarly, "Default Pref Color = R1.0, G0.0, B-1.0" is obtained by changing the red density to +1.0 level, changing the blue density to -1.0 level without changing the green density. It indicates that you have a preference. Further, when "Default Proc" is "0", the default setting reflects the preference, when "Default" is "1", the preference is not reflected, and when "2", the image processing is not performed. Is shown. In this case, since “Default Proc = 0”, the setting reflects the preference with the default setting. As described above, it is possible to describe not only the setting items shown in FIG. 8 but also various conditions.
[0066]
Next, the printing company provides the image printed by the printer 30 to the user, and if there is a complaint from the user that the user wants the image to have higher contrast or lower brightness, the user can print the image. The trader inputs the contents of the claim through the input unit 22 of the reception terminal 20.
[0067]
The CPU 21 of the reception terminal 20 determines whether or not a claim for the printed image has been input from the input unit 22 (step S111). If no complaint is input, the printing process is terminated. If a complaint is input, the CPU 21 associates the content of the input complaint with the print orderer ID as update information of the print orderer information. The print data is transmitted to the server 10 and the print processing ends. The CPU 11 of the server 10 to which the update information of the print orderer information associated with the print orderer ID is transmitted, based on the update information, the CPU 11 of the print orderer corresponding to the transmitted print orderer ID in the information DB 16a. The print orderer information of the ID is updated (step S113).
[0068]
As described above, the digital camera 40 sets the item of the print orderer ID in the item of the additional information, records the input print orderer ID, adds the additional information to the image information captured, and adds the additional information to the image information. If the print orderer ID obtained by reading the image information to which the additional information is added by the reception terminal 20 is different from the ID of the print orderer who is actually ordering the print, the reception terminal 20 transmits the additional information of the image information. The print orderer ID is rewritten to the correct print orderer ID, and the print orderer ID is presented to request the server 10 for the corresponding print orderer information. If there is print orderer information, the server 10 transmits the print orderer information to the reception terminal 20, and the reception terminal 20 extracts print processing information from the transmitted print orderer information and the information related to the generation of image information. The print data is generated and output to the printer 30 together with the image information, and the print is executed based on the printer processing information. Therefore, even if the camera owner or photographer does not match the print orderer, the customer who orders the print can be sent to the customer. On the other hand, it is possible to perform a print process according to the preference, and to provide an image with a high degree of satisfaction.
[0069]
Further, even when there is no print orderer information requested from the server 10, the reception terminal 20 generates print processing information based on information on generation of image information read from the additional information. Can be set in accordance with the print processing conditions, and a high-quality image can be provided.
[0070]
If there is a complaint with the print image, the content of the complaint is recorded as update information in the print orderer information, so that it is possible to respond to customer needs and provide images with higher satisfaction. Can be.
[0071]
Also, since the contents of the print processing are printed on the back print of the print image, the print orderer can immediately grasp the information on the contents of the processing. Further, service information and advertisement information according to the preference and characteristics of the print orderer can be provided together with the print image, and an effective advertisement effect can be obtained.
[0072]
The description in the present embodiment is an example of a preferred print system 100 and digital camera 40 according to the present invention, and the present invention is not limited thereto.
For example, in the present embodiment, the digital camera 40 that adds the additional information including the print orderer ID to the image information has been described. However, the identification information indicating the print orderer or the additional information including the information related to the generation of the image information is used. The electronic device to be added is not limited to this, and a computer such as the reception terminal 20 may be added.
[0073]
In the above-described example, the receiving terminal 20 reads the recording memory 47 storing the image information captured by the digital camera 40. However, the present invention is not limited to this. After the image is captured, a CD-R or a floppy (registered trademark) disk or the like edited and recorded by an information processing device such as a personal computer may be read, or an image transmitted to the reception terminal 20 via a network. The information may be read. Further, instead of the reception terminal 20 reading the image information, the printer 30 connected to the reception terminal 20 may include a reading unit that reads the image information, and the printer 30 may read the image information.
[0074]
Further, in the above-described example, the reception terminal 20 reads the print orderer ID and the information related to the generation of the image information from the additional information of the image information, acquires the print orderer information from the server 10 by the print orderer ID, and The print processing information is generated based on both the print orderer information and the information on the generation of the image information. However, the present invention is not limited to this. At least one of the information on the print orderer information and the information on the generation of the image information is used. May be generated based on the print processing information.
[0075]
Further, the processing operation of each device as described above can be operated also by the user's computer by installing a program for executing various processes on a computer used by the user.
[0076]
In addition, the details of the digital camera 40, the devices constituting the print system 100, or the components of the print system 100 according to the present embodiment, and the detailed operations thereof can also be appropriately changed without departing from the spirit of the present invention.
[0077]
【The invention's effect】
According to the first, second, sixth, and seventh aspects of the present invention, it is possible to add identification information indicating a print orderer who performs a print order or additional information including information on generation of image information to image information. It is possible to acquire identification information indicating a print orderer or information on generation of image information at the time of printing, and to provide an image with a high degree of satisfaction intended by the print orderer using these pieces of information. It becomes.
[0078]
According to the third, fifth, and eighth aspects of the present invention, the receiving terminal reads the identification information indicating the print orderer and the information related to the generation of the image information from the additional information of the image information for which the print order has been received, and receives the print order. Information about the print orderer corresponding to the identification information indicating the print orderer from the server, and sets the print processing conditions based on one of the obtained information about the print orderer and the information about the generation of the read image information. Since the printer prints the image information in accordance with the print processing conditions, it is possible to provide an image with a high degree of satisfaction intended by the print orderer.
[0079]
According to the fourth and ninth aspects of the present invention, the reception terminal transmits update information regarding the print orderer to the server in association with the identification information indicating the print orderer, and the server performs, based on the transmitted update information, Since the information on the print orderer corresponding to the transmitted print orderer identification information is updated and stored, an image with a higher degree of satisfaction can be provided based on the latest information on the print orderer.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram showing an overall configuration of a print system 100 according to an embodiment to which the present invention is applied.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a server 10 of FIG.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a reception terminal 20 of FIG.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the digital camera 40 in FIG.
FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating additional information setting processing executed by CPU 41 of digital camera 40 shown in FIG.
FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of additional information recorded by a CPU 41 in an additional information setting process.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating print processing executed by CPU 11 of server 10 shown in FIG. 2 and CPU 21 of reception terminal 20 shown in FIG.
FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of print processing information generated by a reception terminal 20;
[Explanation of symbols]
10 Server
11 CPU
12 Input section
13 Display
14 Communication control unit
15 RAM
16 Storage unit
16a Information DB
20 reception terminal
21 CPU
26 Memory
27 Image reading unit
30 Printer
40 Digital Camera
41 CPU
42 Imaging unit
43 Image processing unit
46 memory
47 Recording Memory
48 EEPROM

Claims (9)

Input means for inputting identification information indicating a print orderer who places a print order for image information recorded on a recording medium,
An adding unit that adds, to the image information, additional information including identification information indicating a print orderer input by the input unit;
An electronic device comprising: The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the adding unit adds additional information including information on generation of the image information to the image information. A receiving terminal that is connected to a printer that prints image information and receives a print order for image information to which identification information indicating a print orderer and additional information including information on generation of image information are added; And a server that manages the identification information by the identification information indicating the print orderer, and a print system connected via a network,
The reception terminal,
Reading means for reading the image information for which the print order has been received, reading identification information indicating a print orderer from additional information added to the image information, and information on generation of image information;
Transmitting means for transmitting identification information indicating the print orderer read by the reading means to the server, and transmitting a request for information on the print orderer corresponding to the identification information,
The server comprises:
Storage means for storing information on the print orderer in association with identification information indicating the print orderer;
When the identification information indicating the print orderer is transmitted from the reception terminal and a request for information regarding the print orderer is transmitted, the information regarding the print orderer corresponding to the identification information indicating the print orderer is read from the storage unit. Transmitting means for transmitting to the reception terminal by
The reception terminal,
Receiving means for receiving information about the print orderer transmitted from the server,
Setting means for setting print processing conditions based on at least one of information on a print orderer received by the receiving means and information on generation of image information read by the reading means;
Output means for outputting the print processing conditions set by the setting means to the printer together with the image information read by the reading means,
The print system according to claim 1, wherein the printer prints the image information output from the reception terminal in accordance with a print processing condition output together with the image information. In the reception terminal,
Input means for inputting update information on the print orderer,
The transmitting unit transmits the update information on the print orderer input by the input unit in association with the identification information indicating the print orderer,
In the server,
When the update information about the print orderer is transmitted from the reception terminal in association with the identification information indicating the print orderer, the storage unit relates to the print orderer corresponding to the identification information based on the update information. 4. The print system according to claim 3, wherein the information is updated and stored. A receiving terminal that is connected to a printer that prints image information and receives a print order for image information to which identification information indicating a print orderer and additional information including information on generation of image information are added; A server that manages the print orderer by identification information indicating the print orderer, and a print method in a print system connected via a network,
The receiving terminal reads the image information for which the print order has been received, a reading step of reading identification information indicating a print orderer from additional information added to the image information, and information regarding generation of image information,
A step in which the reception terminal transmits identification information indicating the print orderer read in the reading step to the server, and transmits a request for information regarding the print orderer corresponding to the identification information;
A step in which the server stores information on the print orderer in a storage unit in association with identification information indicating the print orderer;
When the server receives the identification information indicating the print orderer from the reception terminal and transmits a request for information regarding the print orderer, the server stores the information regarding the print orderer corresponding to the identification information indicating the print orderer. Reading from the means and transmitting to the reception terminal;
A receiving step in which the reception terminal receives information about the print orderer transmitted from the server,
A setting step in which the reception terminal sets a print processing condition based on at least one of information on the print orderer received in the receiving step and information on generation of image information read in the reading step;
A step in which the reception terminal outputs the print processing conditions set in the setting step to the printer together with the image information read in the reading step,
The printer prints the image information output from the reception terminal according to the print processing conditions output together with the image information,
A printing method comprising: On the computer,
A function for inputting identification information indicating a print orderer who places a print order for image information recorded on a recording medium,
An additional function of adding, to the image information, additional information including identification information indicating a print orderer input by the input unit;
The program to realize. The program according to claim 6, wherein the additional function adds additional information including information on generation of the image information to the image information. On the computer,
By reading the image information to which the additional information including the identification information indicating the print orderer who performs the print order and the information regarding the generation of the image information is added, and indicating the print orderer from the additional information added to the image information A reading function for reading identification information and information related to generation of image information,
The identification information indicating the print orderer read by the reading function is transmitted to a server that manages the information on the print orderer by the identification information indicating the print orderer, and the information on the print orderer corresponding to the identification information is transmitted. The ability to send requests,
A function of receiving information on the print orderer transmitted from the server,
A function of setting print processing conditions based on at least one of information on the print orderer and information on generation of image information read by the reading function;
A function of causing the printer to output the print processing conditions together with the image information read by the reading function,
The program to realize. A function for inputting update information regarding the print orderer;
A function of transmitting update information about the print orderer to the server in association with identification information indicating the print orderer;
The program according to claim 8, further comprising:

Images