JP2007065174A - Automatic photograph-producing device and automatic photograph-producing method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To improve the rate of turnover of users by avoiding waiting time by a following user, as much as possible or making it as short as possible, and to fully guarantee a feeling of satisfaction to the preceding user. <P>SOLUTION: The automatic photograph-forming device 1 is equipped with a plurality of photographic booths 2 and 3, having a camera (photographic means) 12 photographing a subject including the user and obtaining a photographic image; and a monitor (display means) 13 for presenting the photographic image to the user. A receiving device 5 is installed, which receives utilization requirement from the following user, discriminates the progressing circumstances of operation by the preceding users who have already been in the respective photographing booths 2 and 3 and also distributes the following users to either the photographic booth 2 or 3, based on the discriminated progressing circumstances. While there is no utilization demand by the following user to the receiving device 5, photographing chances by the preceding users, who are inside either the photographic booth 2 or 3 or both of them are increased or the restrictions on photographing chances are removed. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

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

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, an automatic photo creation device for a game in which a subject including a user is photographed with a camera and the photographed image is output as a printed photograph has been installed in a game center or other amusement facilities.
Such an automatic photo creation device is highly playable or entertaining for the user, so that it is possible to set shooting conditions prepared in advance according to the user's preference (for example, whole body, half-body or face-up shooting) Zoom selection, selection of background image and foreground image, etc.) and drawing and characters (hereinafter referred to as “additional images”) to be synthesized with the photographed image are selected and synthesized with the photographed image. Many of them are configured to be able to perform an editing operation to be created (for example, graffiti using a touch pen or other pen-type input member).

  In the above-mentioned automatic photo creation device for games, usually, a camera as a photographing means, a touch panel display as an input and display means, and a printer as a printing means are all mounted in one photographing booth. Therefore, setting of shooting conditions, shooting with a camera, and editing with graffiti, etc. are performed in the same shooting booth, and printed photos are paid out toward the same shooting booth. It has come to be.

For this reason, in such a single booth type automatic photo creation device, once a user enters the shooting booth, editing work is performed after shooting by the camera, and the user is allowed to take a picture until the printing of the photo is completed. Since the booth is occupied, there is a problem that the waiting time of the next user becomes very long and the turnover rate of the customer becomes worse for the store side.
Therefore, setting of shooting conditions and shooting with the camera are performed at the shooting booth, and editing operations such as input of additional images are performed at the editing booth arranged in parallel with the shooting booth, so that shooting and editing operations are performed sequentially. An automatic photo creation apparatus has been developed that reduces the waiting time of the user and improves the turnover rate of the customer by performing it in different places (see Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2).

Japanese Patent No. 3401524 Utility Model Registration No. 3083255

  However, in the above-described conventional automatic photo creation device, when the preceding user who has come first enters the shooting booth and starts shooting work, the subsequent user who comes later always finishes shooting work of the preceding user. It is necessary to wait, and waiting time for subsequent users is inevitable. In addition, in this conventional apparatus, a large amount of installation area is required to install the shooting booth and the editing booth. Could not be improved so much.

On the other hand, in order to shorten the waiting time of the subsequent user in the conventional automatic photo creation device, it is conceivable to shorten the shooting time by the preceding user when there is a subsequent user. There is a disadvantage that it cannot give sufficient satisfaction to the person.
In view of the conventional problems as described above, the present invention avoids or shortens the waiting time of the subsequent user as much as possible to improve the user's turnover rate and sufficiently ensure satisfaction with the preceding user. It is an object of the present invention to provide an automatic photo creation apparatus and an automatic photo creation method capable of performing the above.

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention takes the following technical means.
That is, the automatic photo creation apparatus according to the present invention includes a plurality of shooting booths having shooting means for shooting a subject including a user to obtain a shot image, and display means for presenting the shot image to the user. ,
Accepting a use request from a subsequent user and determining the progress of work by a preceding user already in each shooting booth, and based on the determined progress, the subsequent user is assigned to each shooting booth. A receiving device that distributes to either
Use opportunity setting means for increasing the number of photographing opportunities by the preceding user who has already entered either or both of the photographing booths or removing the restriction while there is no request for use of the subsequent user by the reception device. ,
It is characterized by having.

  Since the automatic photo creation apparatus of the present invention includes a plurality of shooting booths having the above-described shooting means and display means, each of the shooting booths can perform shooting work by the shooting means. Then, the reception device determines the progress of work by the preceding users in each shooting booth, and distributes the subsequent users to one of a plurality of shooting booths based on the determined progress. Therefore, the plurality of shooting booths can be used efficiently. Therefore, it is possible to avoid the waiting time for the subsequent user as much as possible, and to shorten the waiting time as much as possible.

  Further, in the automatic photo creation device of the present invention, each of the photographing opportunities is already taken while the use opportunity setting means does not have a subsequent user's use request to the reception device (for example, coin insertion at the reception corner or initial input to the reception screen). The number of shootings by preceding users in one or both of the booths is increased or the restriction is removed, so that the number of shootings that are higher or unlimited than usual in the absence of subsequent users (Or the shooting time) can be secured for the preceding user, thereby sufficiently ensuring satisfaction with the preceding user.

In the automatic photo creation device of the present invention, each shooting booth has input means for inputting shooting conditions of the shot images and / or additional images to be combined with the shot images, and obtained by the input means. It is preferable that editing means is provided for editing the user's photographed image based on the added image.
In this case, it becomes possible for the user to continuously perform the photographing work by the photographing means and the editing work on the photographed image obtained by the photographing work within the same photographing booth. There is no need to move to a different booth.

When each photographing booth is provided with photographing means and editing means as described above, as the utilization opportunity setting means, any of the photographing booths or any one of the photographing booths is already provided as long as there is no subsequent user usage request for the accepting device. You may decide to employ what further has the function to increase the editing opportunity by the preceding user in both, or to remove the restriction.
In this case, under the condition that there is no subsequent user, it is possible to secure an editing time (or the number of editing times) longer than usual or unlimited for the preceding user.
Therefore, as long as there is no subsequent user, the preceding user can enjoy either the increase or unrestricted shooting opportunity and the increase or unrestricted editing opportunity either or both. Satisfaction can be further increased.

In the automatic photo creation apparatus of the present invention, it is preferable that printing means for printing the photographed image and / or the additional image on a printing medium is provided not outside the photographing booth but outside the photographing booth.
In this case, it is possible to prompt the user waiting for the output of the print medium to move to the outside of the shooting booth, and the user who has finished the shooting and editing operations occupies the shooting booth more than necessary. Can be prevented, and the use efficiency of each photographing booth can be further improved.

Further, in the automatic photo creation device of the present invention, when the reception device determines that any one of the plurality of shooting booths is in a usable state, the determined shooting booth is used. It may have a function of guiding the person.
In this case, as soon as one of the shooting booths becomes available, the user is guided to the shooting booth, and the user can immediately select the shooting booth distributed by the reception device from the plurality of shooting booths. Can be determined. For this reason, the serviceability with respect to a user increases, and it leads also to the improvement of the said user's satisfaction.

In the automatic photo creation device of the present invention, when the accepting device accepts a use request from a user, from that point in time until the user can use any of the plurality of shooting booths It is preferable to present predetermined waiting information including a waiting time.
In this case, since the user can wait for the turn in a state in which the waiting time is grasped, the user's irritation or boredom caused by the waiting state can be suppressed, and the user's satisfaction can be reduced. It can be prevented from lowering.

In the automatic photo creation device of the present invention, it is preferable that a game function is provided to the reception device.
In this case, since the user can enjoy the game function while waiting, the user can wait for the turn without feeling frustrated or bored, and the satisfaction of the user is reduced. Can be prevented more reliably.

  As described above, according to the present invention, the waiting time of the subsequent user can be avoided or shortened as much as possible, so that the turnover rate of the user can be improved and more than usual under conditions where there is no subsequent user. Alternatively, an unlimited number of times of photographing or photographing time is secured for the preceding user, so that satisfaction with the preceding user can be sufficiently ensured.

Hereinafter, preferred embodiments showing an automatic photo creating apparatus and an automatic photo creating method of the present invention will be described based on the drawings.
1 and 2 are a plan view and a side view, respectively, of an automatic photo creation apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 1, the automatic photo creation device 1 of the present embodiment is a first shooting game booth 2 in which various devices are provided on the inner front surface, and a second in which various devices are also provided on the inner front surface. And the output corner 4 and the reception corner 5 provided outside the booths 2 and 3, respectively.
In the following, the side facing the user U (see FIG. 2) in the booth is referred to as “front side”, and the opposite side is referred to as “back side”. Further, the right side as viewed from the user U in the booth is referred to as the “right side”, and the opposite side is referred to as the “left side”.

  Each of the booths 2 and 3 has a casing 6 constituting a front side portion thereof, and a substantially rectangular parallelepiped box-shaped shooting room 7 extending from the casing 6 toward the back side. Also, they are arranged side by side with the width direction side portions of the photographing rooms 7 in contact with each other. Further, in the booths 2 and 3, entrances 8 and 9 for the user U are formed on the back side of the photographing room 7. A plurality of, for example, three curtains C1, C2, C3 are sequentially provided on the front side of these entrances 8 and 9 from the entrances 8 and 9 to the inside of the booth so that the photographing room 7 can be shut off from the outside. Has been. The shooting rooms 7 and 7 of both booths 2 and 3 are partitioned by a partition member 10 such as a curtain, so that even if the user U is in both the shooting rooms 7 and 7, both are not concerned about each other. An independent space is formed.

Each of the curtains C1 to C3 is made of a material such as a cloth having a light shielding property, and the corresponding entrances 8 and 9 are partitioned. The booth inner surface side of each curtain C1 to C3 is colored with a different color or a different pattern or the like, and each curtain C1 to C3 is appropriately selected by the user U at the time of shooting operation as a background Configured for use.
Each of the curtains C1 to C3 is driven and controlled by a computer device 11 to be described later, and a roll type wound up on the booth ceiling side or a slide type moved on the booth side surface is used. Among the curtains C1 to C3, the curtain C1 that partitions the entrances 8 and 9 is moved at a slower speed than the other curtains C2 and C3 so that the movement of the user U is not hindered. It is possible to reliably prevent the corresponding entrances 8 and 9 from being blocked by the curtain C1 before the user U enters the photographing room 7.

Also, in order to prevent anti-moral acts such as mischief in booths 2 and 3, the curtains C1 to C3 are operated so that the entrances 8 and 9 are, for example, about half open except during shooting. It is supposed to be. When the play is completed, the curtains C1 to C3 are operated so that the entrances 8 and 9 are opened to accept the next user U.
The curtains C2 and C3 may be made of a material that does not have a light shielding property. In that case, at the time of shooting, at least a curtain C1 having a light shielding property is used, and the curtain C1 and the curtain C2 or C3 can be used in combination. Moreover, the structure which provides only the curtain C1 in each booth 2 and 3 may be sufficient.

On the left side surface of the first booth 2 and the right side surface of the second booth 3, a partition wall member E indicated by a hatched portion in the drawing is provided so as to be removable from the corresponding booth side surface. Specifically, the partition member E is fixed to the board-like plate material detachable from the booth side by magic by the user U or the magic tape (registered trademark) when the user U applies force. Each booth 2 and 3 is configured by a seat member, and an outlet for allowing the user U to escape is formed on the side of the booth by removing the partition member E.
That is, when the entrances 8 and 9 are closed by the curtains C1 to C3 and the booths 2 and 3 are almost sealed, even if an emergency occurs in the user U or the like, the user U is a partition member. By removing E, it is possible to immediately escape from the booths 2 and 3 to the outside.

In this way, by providing the partition member E, the booths 2 and 3 are configured so that the exits are formed. Therefore, the shooting room is almost sealed by a curtain or the like during the shooting operation. Easier to escape from booths 2 and 3 even in the event of an emergency, compared to conventional devices where it is difficult for the user to move the curtains etc. when an emergency occurs. It is possible to configure an automatic photo creation apparatus 1 with high security that can be used.
In addition, a computer device 11 that constitutes a control unit of the automatic photo creation device 1 is stored inside the case 6 of the booth 2, and each part of the device 1 is controlled according to an input instruction from the user U. The drive is controlled.

  In other words, the computer device 11 drives the corresponding units in accordance with the selection operation by the user U in each of the photographing work, the editing work, and the printing work that are continuously performed by the automatic photo creation apparatus 1, and is thereby used. The user U creates a desired printed photograph or the like. The computer device 11 is provided with an editing function for editing an image. The device 11 includes an operation screen and a touch pen, which will be described later, and a process of combining another image with the photographed image in accordance with an input instruction from the user U. An editing means for performing a predetermined editing operation is configured. Among these photographing work, editing work, and printing work, photographing work and editing work are sequentially performed inside each booth 2 and 3, and the remaining printing work is performed at the output corner 4.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, a camera 12 is provided as a photographing means for photographing a subject including the user U and obtaining a photographed image at a substantially central portion of the front surface of the casing 6 of each booth 2 and 3. ing. The camera 12 performs a photographing operation when the user U performs an input operation on the operation screen, and performs a predetermined number of photographing operations set in advance.
On the front surface of the housing 6, a monitor 13 is provided as a display means for displaying a subject including the user U displayed on the camera 12 in real time. The monitor 13 is composed of a CRT device, a liquid crystal display device, and the like, and is arranged adjacent to the camera 12 so as to make it easy to see the current state of the user U who is shooting and to easily check the preview. ing.

  An upper inclined surface that is inclined to the right side of FIG. An upper flash 14 a that irradiates the user U from above simultaneously with the photographing operation of the camera 12 is provided on the upper inclined surface. Further, a lower inclined surface that is inclined to the right side in FIG. The lower inclined surface is provided with an intermediate flash 14b that irradiates the central portion of the user U simultaneously with the photographing operation, and a lower vertical surface that irradiates the feet of the user U simultaneously with the photographing operation. A flash 14c is provided. Further, a light (not shown) for illuminating the user U from above is provided on the ceiling portion of the photographing room 7.

On the front side of the housing 6, an operation screen 15 operated by the user U is provided near the center of the intermediate flash 14 b. The operation screen 15 is constituted by a touch panel display such as a liquid crystal tablet, and has a function of selecting or instructing the user U to the computer device 11.
More specifically, before the photographing operation by the camera 12, the operation screen 15 displays on the operation screen 15 a photographing mode such as zoom selection of the camera 12 such as whole body, half-body photographing, face up photographing, designation of a camera angle, and the above-described flashes 14a. Shooting conditions that can be selected by the user U are presented, such as the intensity of lighting for the user U at the time of shooting by ~ 14c and the preference of the shot such as the degree of blur of the shot image.

Furthermore, the operation screen 15 presents a list of background images and foreground images that are captured as captured images with the user U behind and in front of the user U so that the user U can select them.
In editing, the operation screen 15 displays a list of a plurality of captured images captured by the camera 12 so that the user U can select a captured image desired to be edited. . In addition, the operation screen 15 displays a list of other images that are combined with the captured image such as a stamp image that can be selected in the editing operation, and the combined position in the captured image of the image selected by the user U. An editing condition for setting is presented so that the user U can select it.

In the vicinity of the operation screen 15, as shown in FIG. 3, a touch pen 16 constituting an input unit for performing an input operation on the operation screen 15 is attached. When the user U touches the surface lightly with the pen tip of the touch pen 16 or the finger tip of the user U in accordance with an operation instruction displayed on the operation screen 15, various operation signals are sent to the computer device 11, and The corresponding action is performed.
In addition, the touch pen 16 can input a drawing such as a character or a figure by bringing the tip of the touch pen 16 into contact with the surface of the operation screen 15. A stamp image stored in advance in the computer device 11 is combined with a photographed image of the user U photographed and fixed by the camera 12 and displayed on the operation screen 15.

In addition, a speaker (not shown) is installed at an appropriate position on the front surface of the housing 6, and the user U is automatically guided by voice guidance of the input procedure to the operation screen 15 or music. The photo creating apparatus 1 can be operated smoothly and can be enjoyed and played.
As shown in FIGS. 1 and 4, the output corner 4 includes a printer 41 fixed to the side surface of the casing 6 of the first booth 2 and a touch panel display such as a liquid crystal tablet. An output operation screen 42 for inputting the selection or instruction contents of the user U to 41 to the computer apparatus 11 is provided.

  The printer 41 constitutes a printing unit that prints on the printing medium the photographed image obtained at the booths 2 and 3 or the edited image obtained by synthesizing the photographed image with the additional image. The output operation screen 42 presents printing conditions that can be selected by the user U, such as frame assignment of the captured image and the edited image. The output operation screen 42 displays the selected printing conditions on the computer device. 11 is notified. Then, the computer device 11 generates an instruction signal according to the notified printing condition and outputs the instruction signal to the printer 41, so that a print photograph desired by the user U is printed by the printer 41. The printed photograph is sent to an outlet (not shown) provided on the surface of the printer 41 and provided to the user U.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the reception corner 5 includes a coin insertion part 51 into which coins as play consideration are inserted, and a reception screen 52 constituted by a touch panel display such as a liquid crystal tablet. The coin insertion unit 51 outputs a coin detection signal to the computer device 11 when detecting that a prescribed coin has been inserted. On the reception screen 52, a screen display for inputting predetermined reception information such as the name (reservation name) of the user U is displayed. Further, on the reception screen 52, when reception information is input, predetermined waiting information including a waiting time is presented to the user U, and any one of the booths 2, 3 is displayed to the user U. Predetermined guidance information for guiding is provided (details will be described later).

  The reception corner 5 of the present embodiment is given a game function. That is, a mini game controlled by the computer device 11 is displayed on the reception screen 52 of the reception corner 5, and an operation member 53 including a joystick, an operation button, and the like for operating the mini game. Is provided at the reception corner 5. For this reason, the user U who is waiting for the booths 2 and 3 can play a mini game at the reception corner 6 to reduce boredom.

The computer apparatus 11 of the present embodiment is configured to be able to control each part of each booth 2 and 3 independently for each booth 2 and 3 in parallel. As shown in FIG. 4, the computer device 11 includes a CPU 11a, a memory (RAM and ROM) 11b, and a frame buffer 11c that temporarily holds image data such as a photographed image.
Further, the computer device 11 includes an auxiliary storage device 11d composed of a hard disk in which a program for controlling each unit of the automatic photo creation device 1 and predetermined image data such as the stamp image is stored, and each unit. An I / O control unit 11e that performs data input / output control is provided. A data line 17 such as a telephone line is connected to the I / O control unit 11e, and the automatic photo creating apparatus 1 can perform two-way data communication (including a mail transmission / reception function) with a network such as the Internet. It is configured as follows.

The CPU 11a starts shooting and other controls in the booths 2 and 3 when the selection input of shooting conditions, background images, and the like is performed on the operation screen 15 of any booth 2 or 3, and the touch pen 16 When a handwritten image or an operation signal is input, the data is stored in the frame buffer 11c.
Further, the CPU 11a has a timer function for measuring the time that can be input by the touch pen 16. This time measurement is started almost at the same time that an instruction message for starting various operations such as setting of shooting conditions and image input is displayed on the operation screen 15, and this measurement time is set for each of the shooting work, editing work, and printing work. When a predetermined input available time assigned in advance is reached, the input reception is stopped and the next operation is started.

In addition, the CPU 11a causes the camera 12 to irradiate the user U with illumination light including the flashes 14a to 14c at a predetermined shutter timing by an input operation on the operation screen 15 by the user U. The captured video is stored in the frame buffer 11 c as a still image, and this fixed captured image (still image) is displayed on the operation screen 15. Further, the CPU 11a has a counter function for counting the number of times of photographing by the shutter operation of the camera 12, and is repeated at a constant time interval until reaching a predetermined number of times of photographing that is set in advance. Get an image.
Further, when there is a handwritten image input to the operation screen 15 by the touch pen 16, the CPU 11 a stores the handwritten image in the frame buffer 11 c and combines it with the fixed still image, and this combined image is displayed on the operation screen 15. Display.

The computer device 11 constitutes a reception device of the automatic photo creation device 1 together with the coin insertion part 51 of the reception corner 5, the reception screen 52 of the reception corner 5 and the operation member 53. That is, the computer device 11 accepts a use request (for example, coin insertion at the reception corner 5) by the user U from the reception corner 5, and can use the computer apparatus 11 by determining the operation state at each booth 2 and 3. The booths 2 and 3 have a function of distributing the user U.
Further, the determination of the operation state in each booth 2 and 3 in the computer device 11 is performed by using an input operation to the operation screen 15 provided in each booth 2 and 3 as operation information. The computer device 11 has a function of grasping the operation state in the booths 2 and 3, that is, the start and end of each of the photographing work and the editing work by the above input operation. Furthermore, the computer device 11 can also grasp the start and end of the printing work at the output corner 4 by an input operation on the output operation screen 42.

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

[Operation at reception corner 5]
First, when the user U inserts a coin into the coin insertion portion 51 of the reception corner 5, it is determined whether or not a coin corresponding to the specified value has been inserted (S1 in FIG. 5). 2 is determined (S2 in FIG. 5).
At this time, when there is no work at the first booth 2, the computer device 11 displays a message indicating that the computer can be used without waiting time on the reception screen 52 of the reception corner 5 as waiting information, 2 is displayed on the reception screen 52 (S3 in FIG. 5), and the user U is notified. At this time, the computer apparatus 11 operates the curtains C <b> 1 to C <b> 3 of the first booth 2 so that the user U can be welcomed by opening the entrance 8.

On the other hand, when there is work at the first booth 2, it is further determined whether or not there is work (photographing work and editing work) at the second booth 3 (S4 in FIG. 5).
At this time, when there is no work at the second booth 3, the computer device 11 displays a message indicating that the computer can be used without waiting time on the reception screen 52 of the reception corner 5 as waiting information, and the second booth. 3 is displayed on the reception screen 52 (S5 in FIG. 5) and notified to the user U. At this time, the computer apparatus 11 operates the curtains C <b> 1 to C <b> 3 of the second booth 3 so that the user 9 can be welcomed by opening the door 9.

Next, when there is work in the second booth 3, the computer 11 calculates the waiting time for both the first booth 2 and the second booth 3 (S6 in FIG. 5), and the shorter one of them is calculated. The waiting time is displayed on the reception screen 52 (S7 in FIG. 5). Then, after the waiting time has elapsed, the computer device 11 displays the guidance information of the vacant booths 2 and 3 on the reception screen 52 (S8 in FIG. 5), and the curtain C1 of the booths 2 and 3 concerned. -C3 is operated, and the entrances 8 and 9 are opened so that the user U can be welcomed.
As described above, in the automatic photo creating apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment, the progress of work by the preceding users in the booths 2 and 3 (the waiting time for the booths 2 and 3 in the present embodiment) is determined. . Based on the progress status thus determined, specifically, the subsequent users are assigned to the booths 2 and 3 having the shorter waiting time. 3 can be used efficiently. For this reason, generation | occurrence | production of the waiting time with respect to a subsequent user is avoided as much as possible, and the waiting time can be shortened.

[Operation at booths 2 and 3]
Next, each process performed by the user U at each booth 2 and 3 will be described.
[Shooting condition setting process]
When the user U is guided to one of the booths 2 and 3 as described above, a demonstration screen is displayed on the operation screen 15 of the booth 2 and 3 (S9 in FIG. 6). 15, on condition that the game start operation is performed (S10 in FIG. 6), a display for the user U to set the shooting conditions is displayed on the operation screen 15 (S11 in FIG. 6). This shooting condition setting operation includes, for example, zoom selection such as whole body, half-body or face-up shooting, selection of a background image and foreground image, and the user U selects these according to his / her preference. Any of the conditions can be selected.

[Photographing process]
When the shooting conditions are set, the camera 12 enters the shooting process of the user U (S13 in FIG. 6). In this photographing process, first, simultaneously with the start of imaging by the camera 12, the captured image is displayed on the preview monitor 13 in real time as a moving image. Next, after the user U completes the position adjustment while looking at the monitor 13, when an operation signal for shutter operation is input via the operation screen 15, the user U is instructed to pose, and then the predetermined operation is performed. The captured video is fixed and recorded in the frame buffer 11c after a lapse of time. At this time, the captured image is displayed on the operation screen 15 as a still image.

[Shooting completion judgment processing]
In this way, after a captured image, which is a fixed still image, is displayed on the operation screen 15, a message prompting the user to select whether or not he / she wants to retake a still image whose preview has been confirmed on the operation screen 15. Is displayed. Then, after that, the computer device 11 performs a process for determining whether or not to end the shooting (S14 in FIG. 6). The flowchart of FIG. 7 shows one specific example of this determination process.
As shown in FIG. 7, in this photographing end determination process, first, it is determined whether or not an end operation has been performed by the user U on the operation screen 15 (S19 in FIG. 7). Then, it is determined that the user does not wish to re-shoot, and it is immediately determined that shooting has been completed (S22 in FIG. 7).

On the other hand, if there is no end operation by the user U, whether or not there is a use request by the subsequent user is determined by whether or not the subsequent user has inserted a coin into the coin insertion unit 51 of the reception corner 5 ( If this is not detected (S20 in FIG. 7), the process returns to the step of determining whether or not the user U has performed an end operation (S19 in FIG. 7). Further, when the insertion of a coin by a subsequent user is detected, it is determined whether or not the number of times of photographing exceeds a predetermined number N (for example, N = 3 times) (S21 in FIG. 7). In step S19, the process returns to the step of determining whether or not the user U has performed an end operation (S19 in FIG. 7).
The use request by the subsequent user may be detected not only by inserting coins into the coin insertion unit 51 of the reception corner 5 but also by initial input to the reception screen 52 performed after the insertion.

Then, it is determined whether or not the shooting process has been completed by the above-described determination process (S15 in FIG. 6). If shooting has not been completed, the process returns to the first step of the shooting process. Move to the editing condition setting.
As described above, in the automatic photo creating apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment, the booths 2 and 3 are already in the booths 2 and 3 as long as the computer apparatus 11 does not request the use of the subsequent user to the reception corner 5 (in this embodiment, coins are inserted). It also functions as a use opportunity setting means that eliminates the restriction of the photographing opportunity by the preceding user in either or both of the above.
For this reason, under the condition that there is no subsequent user, an unlimited number of shootings is secured for the preceding user as long as the preceding user desires, and this ensures sufficient satisfaction with the preceding user. Is done.

[Editing condition setting process]
When shooting of the user U is completed as described above, a message to that effect is displayed on the operation screen 15, and a display for the user U to set editing conditions is displayed on the operation screen 15 (FIG. 6). S16). As the editing condition setting work, for example, input (graffiti) of a handwritten additional image by the touch pen 18, composition processing for pasting a predetermined stamp image stored in the computer device 16, keying processing by chroma key composition, etc. The user U can select any or all of these conditions according to his / her preference.
Note that, as described above, in this embodiment, the user U can re-take a picture during the shooting process. However, the user U excludes a photographed image that is poorly photographed. Only a desired photograph can be selected in the editing condition setting step (S16 in FIG. 6). In this case, all the photos may be displayed on the operation screens 15 of the booths 2 and 3 in the editing condition setting step so that the favorite photos can be selected with the touch pen 16.

[Editing process]
When the editing conditions are set, the individual editing process selected by the user U is entered (S17 in FIG. 6). Here, it is assumed that the user U has selected “Doodle” and “Paste Stamp Image”. In this case, the user U starts image input by operating the touch pen 16. When the user U inputs a handwritten image, the icon displayed on the operation screen 17 is tapped with the tip of the touch pen 16, and the pen tip of the captured image displayed on the operation screen 15 is displayed. When the user U moves while making contact, an input of a handwritten additional image made up of a picture or character originally created by the user U is performed.

On the other hand, when inputting the stamp image, the stamp image icon displayed on the operation screen 15 is tapped with the pen tip of the touch pen 16, and then the pen tip is placed on the photographed image displayed on the operation screen 15. By making contact, the stamp image is pasted and input. When inputting a stamp character, an alphabetic character icon or the like is tapped with the pen tip of the touch pen 16, and then the pen tip is brought into contact with a photographed image displayed on the operation screen 15 to thereby display the alphabet. Characters etc. are entered.
In this manner, a handwritten image, a stamp image, or characters are input, and these additional images are combined with the captured image displayed on the operation screen 15.

[Operation at the output corner]
Then, when the predetermined input available time is reached in the editing process at each booth 2 and 3 (S17 in FIG. 6), input of additional images such as handwritten images and stamp images is stopped, and movement to the next output corner 4 is performed. Is displayed on the operation screen 15 of the booths 2 and 3 (S18 in FIG. 6). Note that the movement command for the user U can also be given by sound from a speaker.
When the user U leaves the second booth 3 and moves to the output corner 4, a demo screen is displayed on the output operation screen 42 in the corner 4 (S23 in FIG. 8), and the presence / absence of image data to be printed out is displayed. After the determination (S24 in FIG. 8), a sample screen of the sheet layout (division pattern) of the printed photograph is displayed on the output operation screen 42 (S25 in FIG. 8). At this point, the user U can select which of a plurality of composite images is to be output.
Thereafter, on the condition that the user U touches the output operation screen 42 and selects a desired sheet layout (S26 in FIG. 8), a guidance screen for WEB registration is displayed (S27 in FIG. 8).

Then, on condition that the user U has touched the output operation screen 42 to perform WEB registration (S28 in FIG. 8), the image data of the composite image selected in the predetermined sheet layout is sent to the printer 41. Printing processing is performed (S29 in FIG. 8), and the fact that the printed photograph has been paid out is displayed on the output operation screen 42 (S30 in FIG. 8).
When printing is started, a standby message screen indicating a place where the user U waits until the end of printing, and a mini game for tedious waiting time are displayed on the output display screen 24. It has become.

  As described above, in the automatic photo creation device 1 of the present embodiment, when the computer device (reception device) 11 determines the operating state of each booth 2 and 3 and a use request from the user U is input. Since the user U is assigned to one of the available booths 2 and 3, each of these booths 2 and 3 can be used efficiently. In addition, each booth 2 and 3 is provided with a camera (photographing means) and a monitor (display means) 13 so that photographing work using these cameras 12 and the monitor 13 can be performed. After the distribution to the first booth 2, the subsequent users can be distributed to the second booth 3. As a result, it is possible to avoid waiting time for the subsequent user as much as possible, and to reliably improve the user's turnover rate.

In the present embodiment, since the editing functions using the operation screen 15 and the touch pen 16 are given to the booths 2 and 3, the user U can perform the photographing work by the camera 12 and the photographed image obtained by the photographing work. Editing work can be performed in any of the booths 2 and 3 to which the editing work is assigned. Thereby, unlike the above-described conventional example, the user U can continuously perform the editing work without moving to a different booth, and prevents the use efficiency of the booths 2 and 3 from being lowered due to the movement of the user U. It becomes possible.
Moreover, in this embodiment, since the reception screen 52 presents the guidance information indicating the booths 2 and 3 that can be used, the user U can immediately identify any of the booths 2 and 3 that have been distributed, It is possible to move to the booths 2 and 3 and immediately perform photo creation work. Furthermore, even when the user U is waiting for the turn, when one of the booths 2 and 3 becomes available, the user U is notified by the guidance information on the reception screen 52. The automatic photo creating apparatus 1 having excellent serviceability for the user U can be configured, and the satisfaction of the user U can be enhanced.

In the present embodiment, since waiting information including a waiting time is presented from the reception screen 52 to the user U who is waiting for the turn, the user U waits for the turn in a state in which the waiting time is grasped. It can be performed. As a result, it is possible to suppress the feeling of irritation or boredom caused to the user U due to the waiting state, and it is possible to prevent the satisfaction of the user U from being lowered.
Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the user U who is waiting for the booths 2 and 3 can play the mini-game at the reception corner 5, so that the user feels frustrated or bored during the waiting state. The occurrence of the user U can be prevented, and the satisfaction of the user U can be prevented more reliably. The mini game includes content that does not bore the waiting user U, such as a movie displayed on the reception screen 52, for example.

9 and 10 show a modification of the operation in each booth 2 and 3 of the automatic photo creating apparatus 1 of the present invention.
As is apparent from a comparison between FIG. 6 and FIG. 9, in this modified example, an editing end determination process (S31 in FIG. 9) is performed after the editing process, and whether or not the editing process is completed based on the processing result here. Is determined (S32 in FIG. 9). Hereinafter, this point will be described.

[Edit end judgment processing]
In the editing process at each booth 2 and 3 (S17 in FIG. 9), when a predetermined one-time input possible time is reached, input of additional images such as handwritten images and stamp images is stopped and the images are fixed still images. After the composite image is displayed on the operation screen 15, a message prompting the user to select whether or not he / she wants to edit the still image previewed on the operation screen 15 is displayed. Thereafter, the computer apparatus 11 performs a process for determining whether or not to end the editing (S31 in FIG. 6). The flowchart of FIG. 10 shows one specific example of this determination process.
As shown in FIG. 10, in this editing end determination process, first, it is determined whether or not there has been an end operation by the user U on the operation screen 15 (S33 in FIG. 10). Then, it is determined that the user does not desire to redo the editing, and it is immediately determined that the editing is finished (S34 in FIG. 10).

On the other hand, if there is no end operation by the user U, whether or not there is a use request by the subsequent user is determined by whether or not the subsequent user has inserted a coin into the coin insertion unit 51 of the reception corner 5 ( If this is not detected, the process returns to the step of determining whether or not the user U has performed an end operation (S33 in FIG. 10). Further, when coin insertion by a subsequent user is detected, it is determined whether or not the editing time exceeds a predetermined time T (for example, T = 3 minutes) (S36 in FIG. 10). The process returns to the step of determining whether or not the user U has performed an end operation (S33 in FIG. 10).
The use request by the subsequent user may be detected not only by inserting coins into the coin insertion unit 51 of the reception corner 5 but also by initial input to the reception screen 52 performed after the insertion.

Then, it is determined whether or not the editing process has been completed by the determination process described above (S32 in FIG. 9). If editing has not been completed, the process returns to the first step of the editing process. The process proceeds to a command to move to the output corner (S18 in FIG. 9).
As described above, in the modification shown in FIG. 9, the preceding user who is already in one or both of the booths 2 and 3 while the computer device 11 does not request the use of the subsequent user for the reception corner 5. It functions as a use opportunity setting means that not only eliminates the restriction of the photographing opportunity due to, but also eliminates the restriction of the editing opportunity thereafter.
For this reason, under the condition that there is no subsequent user, as long as the preceding user desires, the unlimited number of shootings and editing time are reserved for the preceding user, and the preceding user increases those opportunities. It can be enjoyed selectively or both, and the satisfaction with the prior user can be further increased.

FIG. 11 shows still another modified example regarding the operation of each booth 2 and 3 of the automatic photo creating apparatus 1 of the present invention.
As is clear from a comparison between FIG. 6 and FIG. 11, in this modified example, the editing process ends, not a loop (in the case of FIG. 6) in which the shooting end determination process is performed before the editing conditions are set and the process returns to the shooting process. Then, a loop (in the case of FIG. 11) is adopted in which the return operation by the preceding user and the use request from the subsequent user are determined to return to the photographing process. Hereinafter, based on FIG. 11, operation | movement in each booth 2 and 3 in the said modification is demonstrated.

In this modified example, after the editing process (S17 in FIG. 11) is completed, an operation button indicating whether or not to return to the previous process is displayed on the operation screen 15, and the user U operates the operation button. It is then determined whether or not it is desired to return to the previous process (S40 in FIG. 11).
When the return is selected, it is determined whether or not there is a use request by the subsequent user depending on whether or not the subsequent user has inserted a coin into the coin insertion unit 51 of the reception corner 5 (S41 in FIG. 11). ). If this is not detected, it is determined whether or not to return to the shooting process (S42 in FIG. 11). If the preceding user desires to return to shooting, the process returns to the shooting process (S13 in FIG. 11). The process returns to the editing step (S17 in FIG. 11).
The use request by the subsequent user may be detected not only by inserting coins into the coin insertion unit 51 of the reception corner 5 but also by initial input to the reception screen 52 performed after the insertion.

  When the preceding user does not select return in the determination of returning to the previous process (S40 in FIG. 11), or when coin insertion is not detected in the presence / absence determination of the use request by the subsequent user (S41 in FIG. 11) Is determined whether or not the editing time exceeds a predetermined time T (for example, T = 3 minutes) (S43 in FIG. 11). The process shifts to a corner movement command (S18 in FIG. 11), and returns to the editing step (S17 in FIG. 11) if not exceeded.

As described above, after the editing process is completed, the presence / absence of the return operation by the preceding user (S40 in FIG. 11) and the presence / absence of the usage request from the subsequent user (S41 in FIG. 11) are determined. Thus, although the number of shots in one shooting process is limited, the number of shootings can be made unlimited unless there is a use request from a subsequent user. Accordingly, also in the modification shown in FIG. 11, the computer device 11 is operated by the preceding user who is already in one or both of the booths 2 and 3 as long as there is no use request of the subsequent user for the reception corner 5. This means that it functions as a use opportunity setting means that eliminates the restriction of the photographing opportunity.
For this reason, under the condition that there is no subsequent user, an unlimited number of shootings is secured for the preceding user as long as the preceding user desires, and this ensures sufficient satisfaction with the preceding user. Is done.

In the modified example of FIG. 11, since it is determined whether there is no use request from the subsequent user and then it is determined whether to return to shooting or to edit (S42 in FIG. 11), the preceding user starts over. There is also an advantage that satisfaction can be obtained in that the desired process can be selected by himself and the options for the user are increased.
In the modification of FIG. 11, when the upper limit of the number of images that can be edited is set, the photographed image before the redoing and the shot image after the redoing are displayed in a list, and a predetermined number of images to be edited from the list is displayed. The user U can also be selected.
Alternatively, the photographed image to be replaced may be designated before photographing again. In this case, for example, when the user U specifies that three shot images are to be replaced, the three sheets to be replaced may be selected in the subsequent editing condition setting.

The above embodiments are all illustrative and not restrictive. The technical scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, and all modifications within the scope equivalent to the configurations described therein are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.
For example, in the above-described embodiment, the case where two booths 2 and 3 are installed in the automatic photo creation device 1 and the reception device is configured by the computer device 11 and the reception screen 52 is described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. In addition to accepting usage requests for the automatic photo creation device 1 from the user, it is possible to use the user while grasping and managing the operating states of the booths 2 and 3 provided in plurality. A reception device that distributes to booths 2 and 3 may be provided separately from computer device 11. When such a reception device is used, the operation information indicating the operation state of each booth 2 and 3 is input to the reception device directly from each booth 2 or 3 or indirectly through the computer device 11, What is necessary is just to comprise so that the operating state of a few can be discriminate | determined in each booth in the said reception apparatus.

In the above-described embodiment, the number of shootings is not limited unless there is a use request from a subsequent user. However, the number of shootings is not limited but can be configured to increase the number of possible shootings. Moreover, you may make it the control structure which increases the imaging time instead of the frequency | count of imaging | photography, or removes the restriction | limiting. Furthermore, in the said embodiment, although two booths 2 and 3 are arranged in parallel, it can also be set as the structure which provided the same booth three or more.
In the illustrated automatic photo creating apparatus 1, a coin insertion portion 51 is provided in the reception corner 5. However, a coin insertion portion is installed in the casing of each booth 2, 3 and is guided to one of the booths 2, 3. Alternatively, a configuration may be adopted in which the photographing operation by the camera 12 is started when the user inserts a predetermined coin into the coin insertion portion in the booths 2 and 3. However, if the coin insertion unit 51 is installed in the reception corner 5 and the usage request from the user is received and registered after confirming the insertion of the play consideration, the usage request for the mischievous purpose (false) is easier for the reception device. It is preferable in that it can be eliminated.

Further, in the above description, the configuration has been described in which predetermined guidance information is displayed on the reception screen 52 and the waiting user is guided to the available booths 2 and 3, but the present invention is not limited thereto. It is not a thing, but it is assigned by notifying the name of the user included in the above reception information and the booth assigned to the user by voice, or by providing a lamp for each booth 2 and 3 and activating this lamp. The booth can be shown to the user.
Furthermore, in the above description, the configuration in which the computer apparatus 11 has a function of an editing unit that edits a captured image has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, an MPU mounted on an image processing board or the like May be provided for each booth as an editing means and connected to a computer device.
In the above description, a stamp image stored in advance in the computer device 11 is used. However, in addition to various types of external storage media such as a floppy disk, a CD-ROM, a CD-R, and a magneto-optical disk. The stored image data can also be read and used.

In the above description, the printing conditions for the printer 41 are set via the output operation screen 42 provided in the output corner 4. However, the printing conditions of the printing conditions are set by the operation screens 15 provided in the booths 2 and 3. It may be configured to perform setting. In the case of such a configuration, the installation of the output operation screen 42 can be omitted.
On the other hand, the shooting conditions and editing conditions can be set on the output operation screen 42. Furthermore, a printer 41 can be installed in each booth 2 and 3 to complete a series of photo creation operations in one booth 2 and 3. However, as described above, if the printer 41 is provided outside the booths 2 and 3, the user who is waiting for the output of the printed photo, that is, all the operations of the automatic photo creating apparatus 1 except for the printout of the printer 41 are performed. It is possible to forcibly urge the finished user to move outside the booth halfway. As a result, the user can be prevented from occupying the booths 2 and 3 more than necessary, which is preferable in that the usage efficiency of the booths 2 and 3 can be further improved.

Furthermore, in the above embodiment, as the printer 41, various types of printing apparatuses such as a sublimation printer, an ink jet printer, a laser printer, a thermal transfer printer, a fusion printer, a thermal printer, a photographic paper printer, and an instant film printer are employed. The model is not particularly limited.
Further, the print medium is not limited to a general seal print, but includes a printout output as a hard card, and the material and structure of the print medium are not particularly limited.

Moreover, although the said embodiment demonstrated the case where a coin was used as play consideration, various aspects, such as a banknote, a prepaid card, a medal, a credit card, a cash card, are included. Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, a digital camera or a video camera can be used as the camera. However, the camera is not particularly limited as long as the captured image can be converted into a digital signal.
Moreover, although the case where the one computer apparatus 11 was used was demonstrated in the said embodiment, a some computer apparatus can also be used.

1 is a plan view of an automatic photo creation apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a side view of the automatic photo creation apparatus. It is a front view of the case front seen from the user in each booth. It is a block diagram which shows the system configuration | structure of the computer apparatus which controls the same automatic photo production apparatus. It is a control flowchart with respect to the reception corner by the said computer apparatus. It is a control flowchart with respect to each booth by the said computer apparatus. It is a control flowchart of the imaging | photography completion determination process by the said computer apparatus. It is a control flowchart with respect to the output corner by the said computer apparatus. It is a modification of the control flowchart with respect to the output corner by the said computer apparatus. It is a control flowchart of the edit end determination process by the said computer apparatus. It is another modification of the control flowchart with respect to the output corner by the said computer apparatus.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Automatic photo production apparatus 2 First photography booth 3 Second photography booth 4 Output corner 41 Printer (printing means)
5 reception corner (reception device)
11 Computer device (accepting device, editing means, use opportunity setting means)
12 Camera (photographing means)
13 Monitor (display means)
13 Operation screen (editing means)
14 Touch pen (editing means)

Claims (9)

A plurality of shooting booths having shooting means for shooting a subject including a user to obtain a shot image, and display means for presenting the shot image to the user,
Accepting a use request from a subsequent user and determining the progress of work by a preceding user already in each shooting booth, and based on the determined progress, the subsequent user is assigned to each shooting booth. A receiving device that distributes to either
Use opportunity setting means for increasing the number of photographing opportunities by the preceding user who has already entered either or both of the photographing booths or removing the restriction while there is no request for use of the subsequent user by the reception device. ,
An automatic photo creation device characterized by comprising:   Each shooting booth has an input means for inputting shooting conditions of the shot image, an additional image combined with the shot image, or both, and the use based on the additional image obtained by the input means. 2. The automatic photo creation apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising editing means for editing a photographed image of the person.   The usage opportunity setting means increases or restricts the editing opportunity by the preceding user who is already in one or both of the shooting booths, as long as there is no subsequent user usage request for the accepting device. The automatic photo creation apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising a function of eliminating the function.   The automatic photo creation apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein printing means for printing the photographed image and / or the additional image on a printing medium is provided outside the photographing booths.   5. The reception device, when determining that any one of the plurality of shooting booths is in a usable state, guides the user to the determined available shooting booth. The automatic photo production apparatus in any one of.   When the reception device receives a use request from a user, predetermined waiting information including a waiting time until the user can use any one of the plurality of shooting booths from that time is received. The automatic photo creation apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5.   The automatic photo creation apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a game function is provided to the reception apparatus. An automatic photo creation method using an automatic photo creation apparatus provided with a plurality of photography booths each provided with photographing means for photographing a subject including a user to obtain a photographed image and display means for displaying the photographed image from the photographing means Because
Assigning subsequent users to any of the shooting booths based on the progress of work by the preceding users already in the shooting booths;
If there is no subsequent user, increasing the shooting time or the number of shootings by the preceding user already in one or both of the shooting booths or removing the restriction;
An automatic photo creation method characterized by comprising:   A print medium printed as a photograph by the automatic photo creation method according to claim 8.

Images