JP2002358171A - Ordering program, computer readable storage medium and order data preparing device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an ordering grogram, a computer readable storage medium, and an order data preparing device for allowing even a person who is unfamiliar with any operation to easily and quickly order at least one of a plurality of services. SOLUTION: In an order data preparing device 10, display for selecting picture data is displayed on a screen 11, and when it is found that the selection of the picture data on the display screen is completed, a series of picture display for making a print order and the preservation order of the picture data based on the selected picture data is operated. Supposing that the picture data selecting works are made common for both the print service and the picture data preservation service, it is found that the picture data are selected, and the picture common to the ordering of the both services is displayed. Thus, it is not necessary for a person who inputs data being a customer, for example, to input information indicating which service is designated, and it is possible to save any input labor for preparing an order.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

[0001] 1. Field of the Invention [0002] The present invention relates to an order data creating technique for making a print order and an image data storage order.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, image data generating devices such as digital cameras and scanners have become
It is spreading at a remarkable rate. Along with this, the consciousness of the users who use the digital images has increased, and the digital images have been used for various purposes such as creating homepages for the Internet and digital printing. On the other hand, in the past labs, prints were made using negative films,
With the spread of digital cameras, services that handle digital image data are naturally increasing, such as output centers and minilabs (small labs) that provide image printing services, and large laboratories that perform centralized processing. Cross over.

On the other hand, with the spread of the Internet to general households, as an example of a service for handling such digital image data, a customer uploads image data to a server managed by a lab or the like via the Internet. The lab performs printing based on the uploaded image data and provides it to customers. According to such a service, there is an advantage that a customer can order a print of image data owned by the customer while staying at home. Further, as the Internet becomes broadband, services for providing storage areas on the Internet that can be used freely by customers are increasing. In addition, a service of storing image data of a customer's favorite image in a single removable storage medium has been provided.

[0004]

By the way, a customer who wants to receive such a service receives an order by inputting necessary information together with image data from his / her own terminal or an order data creation device installed in a convenience store. Work to create data is needed. However, if the order data of a plurality of services can be created from one terminal or the order data creation device, the number of selection screens increases, and the labor for creating the order data increases. In other words, it is necessary to create the final order data by taking a number of steps, such as selecting a service to be received on a certain screen and then selecting an image on the switched screen, for example. For those who are unfamiliar with this, it can be an obstacle in order data creation. On the other hand, it is conceivable to replace software for each service to be ordered or to use an order data creation device properly. However, it is necessary to prepare software and devices separately, and there is a problem that the cost increases.

[0005] In view of the problems of the prior art, the present invention provides an order program, a computer-readable storage medium, and a computer-readable storage medium capable of easily and promptly ordering at least one of a plurality of services even if the operation is unskilled. An object of the present invention is to provide an order data creation device.

[0006]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an ordering program for making an order using image data via a computer, wherein a display for selecting image data is displayed on a screen. When it is detected that the selection of the image data on the display screen is completed, a series of screen displays for performing a print order based on the selected image data and a storage order of the image data are performed. Based on the premise that the work of selecting image data is the same for both the print service and the image data storage service, detect that image data has been selected and display a screen common to both service orders This eliminates the need for a data entry person, for example, a customer, to enter information indicating that any service is specified. Labor input can be saved.

[0007] Further, in addition to the first screen display among a series of screen displays for making the print order and the storage order of the image data, a series of print orders based only on the selected image data are performed. It is preferable that the first screen display of the screen display is displayed because a print order can be made from the screen.

[0008] In addition to the first screen display among a series of screen displays for performing the print order and the storage order of the image data, a series of screen displays for performing only the storage order of the selected image data. It is preferable that the first screen display is displayed because an image data storage order can be made from that screen.

A computer-readable recording medium according to a second aspect of the present invention is a computer-readable recording medium storing an order program for making an order using image data via a computer. A display for selecting data is displayed on the screen, and when it is detected that the selection of the image data on the display screen is completed, a print order based on the selected image data and a storage order of the image data are placed. Since a series of screen displays are performed for both the print service and the image data storage service, based on the assumption that the work of selecting image data is the same, it is detected that image data has been selected, and both By displaying a common screen for ordering services, for example, a data entry person, Since the input of the effect of information that specifies the service can be eliminated, Habukeru the trouble of input for the creation order.

[0010] Further, according to the order program, not only the first screen display of a series of screen displays for performing the print order and the storage order of the image data, but also the print order based on the selected image data. It is preferable to display the first screen display of a series of screen displays for performing a print order, since a print order can be made from the screen.

In addition, the order program allows the user to place only the storage order of the selected image data together with the first screen display of a series of screen displays for making the print order and the storage order of the image data. It is preferable that the first screen display of the series of screen displays be displayed because an image data storage order can be made from that screen.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided an order data creating apparatus for placing an order using image data via a computer, the display means for displaying a display for selecting image data on a screen. And a detecting means for detecting completion of selection of image data on the display screen, and based on the detection of the detecting means, a print order based on the selected image data and storage of the image data Since a series of screen displays for ordering are performed by the display means, it is assumed that the image data is selected based on the assumption that the work of selecting the image data is the same for both the print service and the image data storage service. By detecting and displaying a screen common to both service orders, a data entrant, for example, a customer, can specify either service Since the input to the effect of information can be unnecessary, Habukeru the trouble of input for the creation order.

[0013] Further, the display means may include a first screen display among a series of screen displays for performing the print order and the storage order of the image data, and a print order based on the selected image data. It is preferable to display the first screen display of a series of screen displays for performing a print order, since a print order can be made from the screen.

[0014] Further, the display means performs only the storage order of the selected image data together with the first screen display in a series of screen displays for performing the print order and the storage order of the image data. It is preferable to display the first screen display of a series of screen displays, since an image data storage order can be made from that screen.

In the present specification, image data generally means digitized image data, and more specifically, such as a transparent original such as a negative film or a positive film, or a reflective original such as photographic paper or printed matter. Data that is quantized and digitized from information stored in analog, data that is directly stored as digital information such as a digital camera, and image data that a customer arbitrarily draws on a computer (in general, CG).

Here, the storage medium is a CD-R, CD-R
W, DVD-R, DVD-RAM, magneto-optical disk, floppy (registered trademark) disk, compact flash (registered trademark), smart media, memory stick, multimedia card, SD card, HiFD, Z
In addition to removable devices such as ip and PD, fixed storage media such as hard disks are also included.

The term "network" refers to a network in which computer systems, terminals, and data communication equipment are interconnected. The connection may be connected by a wired line such as a dedicated line, a public line, a power line, or an optical fiber, may be connected wirelessly, or may be connected in a complex form thereof. The so-called Internet is also included in the network.

[0018]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The present invention will be described below with reference to embodiments. FIG. 1 is a top view of the order data creation device according to the present embodiment. In FIG. 1, an order data creation device 10 is rectangular and has a touch-panel type liquid crystal screen 11 having a display screen on an upper surface.
(On the lower side). Input via the liquid crystal screen 11 as a display means can also be performed via a mouse (not shown) that drives a pointer displayed on the screen. The order data creation device 10 has two openings 12 and 13 formed on opposing side surfaces (upper side in FIG. 1). A data reading device 14 and a data reading / writing device 15 are mounted in the openings 12 and 13, respectively.

The opening 12 is capable of receiving a removable medium C, for example, a PC card in which image data corresponding to an image captured by a digital camera is stored, and the opening 13 is used as a storage means or a storage medium. The removable medium M, for example, a PC card can be freely received. It is preferable that the removable medium M has no data stored therein, that is, has a larger storage capacity in an empty state than the removable medium C. The removable media C and M are not limited to the PC card and IC card shown here, but various storage media such as a magneto-optical disk, a DVD-RAM, and a CD-R can be used.

FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the order data creating apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment. In FIG. 2, an order data creating device 10 reads image data and order data described below into a reading device 14 that can read image data from a removable medium C inserted into an opening 12 and a removable medium M inserted into an opening 13. It has a storable read / write device 15 and a control unit connected thereto. The control unit has a CPU 16 for executing a program, and the program can be stored in a flash memory (not shown). The control unit has an SDRAM for temporarily storing data.
(Not shown). Flash memory is CPU
Although it is also possible to configure so that it can be attached to and detached from 16,
It is also possible to arrange them fixedly. It is also possible to update the program by replacing or rewriting the flash memory. The CPU 16 can process predetermined information input from the liquid crystal screen 11 of a touch panel type, and can display a predetermined image on the liquid crystal screen 11 via a driver (not shown).

The order data creation device 10 transmits the print data to the print printer 19 by the CPU 16.
232C and USB (Universal Serial)
Bus). This can be used later by the customer to print a confirmation slip when creating the order data. Then, in order to transmit the order information to the external print creation device 20, 10 BAS
It has a terminal (interface 18) for communication by ET, 100BASE-TX, or the like. Therefore, it is possible to connect to the Internet NT using a WAN connection device such as a dial-up router and send the order data to the server 30. The server 30 creates print data based on the sent order data, prints the print data by referring to the print data from the print creation device 20, and stores the image data in the image storage server 40. it can.

Hereinafter, specifications of the order data creating apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment will be described. CPU: VR4310 (167 MHz) or VR5432 (167 MHz) Memory: SDRAM, 64 MByte flash memory, 28 MByte Display relationship: LCD, 12.1 inch TFT color LCD panel VRAM, UMA method (uses main memory) Resolution / colors, 600 × 800 65,536 colors (16 bits) display LED, 2 colors (red / green) 4 LEDs mounted Operation unit: Touch panel, resistive analog touch panel Electric resolution, 10 bits (1024 × 1024) General-purpose switch, left / right Up / Down Clock: Year, month, minute, second and 114-byte general-purpose SRAM Backup by lithium battery + super capacitor External interface: Two PCMCIA, Type II slots mounted Two Serial, D-sub 9 pin connectors Onboard One USB and one USB connector. One IrDA and one IrDA transceiver module. 10BASE-T and 10BASE-T connectors. 0.7mm x 30mm Weight: 1600g (including AC adapter)

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a print forming apparatus (image forming apparatus) according to the present embodiment. Here, the print creation apparatus 20 as an example of an image forming apparatus installed in a lab or the like is described as an example in which a print is created by exposing and developing a photosensitive material, but is not limited thereto.
Any apparatus can be used as long as it can create a print based on image information. For example, an ink-jet type or electrophotographic type print creation apparatus may be used.

The print making apparatus 20 of this embodiment
Has a magazine loading section 203 on the left side surface of the main body 202. An exposure processing unit 204 for exposing a photosensitive material as a storage medium is provided in a main body 202, and a print creating unit 2 for developing and drying the exposed photosensitive material to create a print.
The print is ejected to a tray 206 provided on the right side of the main body 202. further,
A control unit 207 is provided inside the main body 202 at a position above the exposure processing unit 204.

The CRT 20 is mounted on the upper part of the main body 202.
8 are arranged. The CRT 208 constitutes display means for displaying an image of image information to be printed on a screen. On the left side of the CRT 208, a film scanner unit 209 serving as an image reading unit for reading a transparent original is arranged, and on the right side, a reflective original input device 210 is arranged.

Documents read from the film scanner unit 209 and the reflection document input device 210 include photographic light-sensitive materials, such as color negative films, color reversal films, black-and-white negative films, and black-and-white reversal films. Image data captured by the analog camera is stored. The data can be converted into digital information by the film scanner of the film scanner unit 209 and used as image data. When the photographic material is a color paper, the data can be converted into image data by the flatbed scanner of the reflection document input device 210.

An image transfer unit 214 is provided at the position of the control unit 207 of the main body 202. Image transfer unit 2
In addition to the removable medium M (PC card) described above, the IC card 213 stores image data.
a and the floppy disk 213b can also be inserted, and the image data and the like of the inserted storage medium are read.

An operation section 211 is arranged in front of the CRT 208, and an information input section 212 is provided on the operation section 211. The information input section 212 is constituted by, for example, a touch panel.

Further, the main body 202 is provided with a storage medium writing unit 215, which magnetically stores the image data in the storage medium when outputting image data from a removable medium M having image data and producing a print. Writing means K for writing to media, optical storage media, etc. (FIG. 4)
Is provided.

As a storage medium for storing image data, specifically, a multimedia card, a memory stick, an M
D, a removable medium such as a CD-ROM, but is not limited thereto.

The operation unit 211, the CRT 208, the film scanner unit 209, the reflection document input device 210, the image transfer unit 214, and the storage medium writing unit 215 are provided integrally with the main body 202 to form a device. However, any one or more may be provided separately.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the print making apparatus.

The control unit 207 of the print creation device 20
Based on the command information from the information input unit 212, original information is read from the film scanner unit 209 or the reflective original input device 210, and image information is obtained and displayed on the CRT 208.

The print creation device 20 has a data storage unit 271 and a template storage unit 272. In the data storage means 271, the removable medium M
, And order data corresponding thereto (information on how many prints are to be made from which frame image, print size information, etc. will be described in detail later) and can be sequentially stored. A frame image from the developed negative film N obtained by developing a negative film captured by an analog camera is input from the film scanner unit 209, and the frame image is printed on photographic paper from the reflective original input device 210 and developed. A frame image from the processed print P is input.

The template storage means 272 stores in advance data of at least one template image for setting a background image and a composite area, and data relating to the corresponding number. By the operation of the operator or based on the number of the template image included in the order data,
A predetermined template image is specified from a plurality of template images stored in the template storage unit 272 in advance, the image data is combined with the selected template image, and a print is created based on the combined image data. The synthesis using the template image is performed by a well-known chroma key method.

The control unit 207 includes an image processing unit 270
The image processing unit 270 performs image processing on the image information to form image information for exposure, and sends the image information to the exposure processing unit 204.
In the exposure processing section 204, an image is exposed on the photosensitive material, the photosensitive material is sent to the print creating section 205, and the photosensitive material exposed in the print creating section 205 is developed and dried to create a print.

The image transfer unit 2 of the print creation device 20
The reading unit 14 includes a reading unit 230 that reads and transfers image data and the like from the removable medium M and the like, and a communication unit 240 that can communicate with the print accepting device 10.
The reading unit 230 reads the stored image data from the removable medium M inserted into the image transfer unit 214, and controls the control unit 20 including a microcomputer.
7 can be transferred. On the other hand, the communication means 240
It can communicate with the print accepting device 10 via the Internet NT or the like, and can input image data and the like.

The print creating apparatus 20 performs a normal print P1, a file print P2 and an index print P3 based on the image data stored in the removable medium M and the order data stored in association with the image data. It can also be stored in a storage medium such as one or more CD-Rs.

The normal print P1 is for creating one piece of image data as one print. In the normal print P1, for example, a predetermined synthesis area is set on a background image (template image) having a predetermined pattern, and one frame image is synthesized and stored in the synthesis area, and the normal frame decorated with a photo frame is stored. The print P1 of the print size can be created. By storing one piece of image data in one print P1 in this way, a favorite special print that can be put in, for example, a postcard, a calendar, a wallet, a regular period, or the like according to a customer's order is stored. Can be created.

The file print P2 is for creating a plurality of frame images as one large format file.
Also in the file print P2, for example, a combination area is set at, for example, three to ten places in a background image having a predetermined pattern, and one frame image is combined and stored in each of the three combination areas. You may. Further, in the file print P2, a cutout line may be stored in the background, and a favorite special print that can be easily and neatly cut and put in a wallet, a regular period, or the like with the cutout line can be stored. Can be created. The composition of the images can be performed by the order data creation device 10 as described later.

The index print P3 is for creating all images as one print based on image data of a predetermined size so as to be convenient for ordering a print again.

In this print making apparatus, in order to print an image of a developed negative film or a developed reversal film, these are printed by a film scanner section 20.
After being scanned by a film scanner 9 and converted into digital information, a print can be similarly created via the control unit 207.

First, the work flow will be briefly described. As shown in FIG. 12, a customer creates order data (FIG. 1).
Step S101). This creation is performed using the order data creation device 10 in the present embodiment, but may be created using a personal computer connected to the Internet, and is not limited to this form.

When a WAN such as the Internet is used, the created order data is transmitted from the order data creating device 10 (step S102 in FIG. 12) and received by the server 30 (step S103 in FIG. 12). Stored in the server 30. At the store, print or CD-R or image storage server 4 is used based on information stored in server 30.
0 is stored (step S in FIG. 12).
104), and prints, CD-Rs and the like are delivered to the customer (step S105 in FIG. 12). In addition, in the case of making at the store and printing on the spot, etc., FIG.
2 (steps S102, S10
3) is unnecessary, and delivery and storage are established on the spot instead of distribution.

Next, the operation of the order data creating apparatus according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.
The order data creation device 10 according to the present embodiment is installed in a print agency or a convenience store (hereinafter, referred to as an agency A) that does not have an image forming apparatus that can form an image with high accuracy based on image data. Is preferred. The customer who wants to print brings the removable medium C storing the image data corresponding to the image captured by his / her digital camera to the agency A. The type of the removable medium is not limited as long as it is a portable storage medium capable of storing image data. Also,
The operation relating to the print order may be performed by the operator at the agency A, but in the present embodiment, it is assumed that the customer (referred to as an image editor) himself performs the operation.

Further, a procedure for creating a print order using the order data creating apparatus will be described with reference to FIG. When a customer turns on the power switch 21 of the order data creation device 10 when ordering a print (step S201 in FIG. 13), a program for creating order data as described below is read from a hard disk or a removable storage medium. CPU 1
6 displays an initial screen on the liquid crystal screen 11 first.

Here, when the customer inserts the removable medium C as a removable medium into the opening 12 of the order data creating device 10 (step S20 in FIG. 13).
2) A sensor (not shown) detects that the removable medium C is fixed at a position where image data can be read, and transmits a readable signal. In response to the readable signal, the reading device 12 reads out the image data stored in the removable medium C (Step S203 in FIG. 13). The CPU 16 first stores the read image data in the removable medium M, and further, based on the read image data,
Can be displayed on one of the liquid crystal screens 11 in an index manner (step S204 in FIG. 13).

In the case where the removable medium C stores full-size image data and thumbnail image data having a smaller data size than the full-size image data for the same image, the index display will be omitted. The image is displayed based on the thumbnail image data. When image data having a small data amount is not stored, image data having a small data amount may be generated from the read full-size image data, and may be index-displayed. If the image is difficult to see, it may have a function of appropriately enlarging / reducing.

The customer who sees the display selects an image desired to be printed by pressing on the liquid crystal screen 11 (step S205 in FIG. 13). In such a case, for the image pressed on the liquid crystal screen 11,
If the CPU 16 changes the color of the frame, for example, it is convenient at a glance which image has been selected.

When the selection is completed, the customer operates the liquid crystal screen 11
"Next" button 11a displayed at the lower right of "" (see FIG. 5)
By pressing, the print and storage order initial screen shown in FIG. 7 is displayed. That is, the CPU 16 that detects the pressing of the button 11a functions as a detecting unit. Here, the display shown in FIG. 7 is the first display of a common screen display for performing print ordering and image data storage based on the selected image data. In this screen, only the selected image is displayed in the center display area A1, and a list of drive and folder names as storage destinations of image data is displayed in the left display area A2. I have.

Below the display area A1, an "order print" button B1 (first screen display of a series of screen displays for ordering only prints based on the selected image data) and "online" are displayed. "Save to album" button B2 (the first screen display of a series of screen displays for ordering only storage of selected image data (including image data combined with template image data, etc.)) and "Print &Store""Button B3 is displayed at the same time.

Here, "order print" button B
Pressing 1 switches the screen to the print order display screen shown in FIG. In FIG. 8, the columns of “print size” and “number of prints” are automatically displayed below each selected image displayed in the central display area A. Choose the desired size,
In addition, a desired number of prints can be input (step S206 in FIG. 13). By pressing the button B6 on the screen shown in FIG. 8, an arbitrary comment can be input for the selected image.

Below the display area A1, there are displayed a button B4 for "inputting the same number and the same size for the selected images" and a button B5 for canceling the order of the selected images.
When the button B4 is pressed, all the images match the print size and the number of prints of the first image (the image displayed at the upper left of the display area A1). Pressing the button B5 cancels the image order and returns to the image selection screen (not shown).

In FIG. 8, information relating to charges is displayed in a display area A3 at the upper left of the display area A1, and information relating to the time required for uploading is displayed below the display area A4. When the customer confirms all the information displayed in FIG. 8 and presses the “next” button 11a, the screen switches to an order data transmission screen (not shown), so that necessary customer data is input. After that, a print order can be made from there (step S2 in FIG. 13).
07, S208). On the other hand, when the "return" button 11b is pressed, the screen is switched to the screen shown in FIG. 7, so that, for example, by pressing the button B2, it is possible to place an order for storing image data (online album), and press the button B3. By pressing the button, a print order and an image data storage order can be made. When the buttons B2 and B3 are pressed, the screen is switched to a screen (not shown) similar to that shown in FIG. 8, but here the customer individually writes the storage file name of the image data and the comment of the image. It is desirable to be able to input (step S206 in FIG. 13). Thereafter, the order data is transmitted in the same manner as described above. The transmitted order data is stored in the server 30.

It should be noted that information for instructing synthesis with the template image may be added to the order data. In this case, as shown in FIG. 5, an image showing an example of the template is displayed on the order data creating device 10, and the selected image is synthesized with the specified template image (low resolution), as shown in FIG. , And if the customer is OK, the order data includes the number of the template image to be combined with the selected image. The composition with the designated template image is performed by the print creation device 20.

Further, the order data may be stored in the removable medium M without passing through the network, and the removable medium M may be sent to the reading means 230 of the print creating apparatus 20 to perform the print output.

As means for transmitting order data, E-
A mail that uses smtp, such as mail, may be used, or ftp, http, or the like may be used. Regarding the connection between stores,
SHOP INF ".

The order data is stored in parallel with these operations. The order data is stored in the SD
The type of the medium may be temporarily stored in the RAM, or may be stored in the removable medium C, as long as the print information data can be stored.

If the order is stored in the removable medium C, the customer can make the same order or another order based on the backed-up information when ordering again. This is effective for those that have little change in customer information and store information.

In this embodiment, the order data creation device 1
0 is used, but this is merely for functional description, and a device generally known as a personal computer may be used. By storing the order data in a hard disk connected to the computer, the order data can be permanently stored. Further, the program used in the present embodiment may be distributed via a medium such as a CD-ROM or a network and installed in a personal computer in each home for use.

FIGS. 9A and 9B are configuration diagrams of order data to be created. In FIGS. 9A and 9B, a folder including an information file necessary for printing is created for each order data. In this example, an order ID that uniquely points to the order data is defined, generated, and used as a folder name. The identifier ord indicates that printing is not yet completed. If the printing is performed by the print creation device 20, the identifier is rewritten as 001 or the like, so that the printing state is not stored in the system database but in the actual data. This is convenient because it can be searched as.

FIG. 9A shows a folder indicating order data. ord (example), an IMAGE folder for storing image data, a MISC folder for storing print conditions, a MERGE folder for storing thumbnail images, and a CAPT for storing character data.
PR related to ION folder and print layout information
An INT folder is created. FIG. 2B is also a diagram showing the data structure of the order data. Order ID. ord, a MISC folder for storing print conditions, a LAYOUT folder for storing layout information relating to image composition and editing, and a TEXT for storing character data.
It has a T folder, an IMAGE folder for storing image data, and a MERGE folder for storing thumbnail images.

Hereinafter, details will be described with reference to FIG. The order ID can be generated, for example, in a form as shown in FIG. Here, jp0000rf indicates the customer ID, in which the first two digits jp particularly indicate the country code, and the following digits 0000rf indicate the registration number. Here, the registration number can be expressed not only by a numeral but also by an alphabet, so that the number of customers can be increased.

Next, the store ID is connected in the same way as the customer ID, and a code (model number) for limiting the model in the store is described and linked in the print processing at the store or the like.

Further, by connecting the year, month, day, hour, minute, and second of the time when the order (order) is confirmed, a sequential three-digit number is given so that even if a plurality of orders are created at the same time, the order can be recognized. .

In this way, the order ID on the user side
Is generated, the server 30 or the print creation device 2
It is possible to feed back the order ID to the customer earlier than to attach the order ID with 0.

Such a form is particularly effective when order data from a plurality of stores is accepted by a smaller number of production bases (one store in the figure) as shown in FIG.

Note that the connection items for generating the ID can be selected according to the operation method. It is also necessary to identify a customer, usually using a name, address, telephone number, and the like. On the other hand, the customer ID is an ID for easily recognizing the customer. If customer registration is performed in store ID units, the customer ID must be at least unique to the store ID. It is more preferable that the parent store described later is unique.

However, the order I generated by such a method
D is given a unique number worldwide and is suitable for database management, but has a large number of digits, and it may be difficult to transmit an accurate number when making an order inquiry. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 10 (lower), it may be issued as a production management ID for temporary management such that it is only necessary to add about 11 digits together with the store ID for convenience. Here, it is needless to say that it is not particularly necessary to stick to 11 digits, and it suffices to use an easy-to-handle method. This production management ID is assigned sequentially, and it will be saturated sometime, but it is a temporary one. In this case, it is only necessary to start from the beginning (for example, 001).

The structure in the “order ID” folder shown in FIG. 9B will be described. If the business card Cd in FIG. 8 is taken as an example, the original image object used here is image0001.image in the “IMAGE” folder in FIG.
bmp.

Here, in FIG. 9, image0001. **
Although it is described as *, *** is an image format name that can be recognized in this application, for example, Windows.
95 (manufactured by Microsoft), "jpg" for jpeg format, "bmp" for bitmap format
And so on. If there are a plurality of original image objects to be used, use image0002. jp
This can be handled by increasing the number, such as g.

The customer address and name data included in the order data is obtained by editing the editing conditions including the font name, character size, character color, format, arrangement direction, etc. as a character object in the “TEXT folder” of FIG. To text000
1. txt. This is defined for each area, and in the order of text0002. txt and so on.

The file “ord” is stored in the “MISC” folder.
er. txt, order2. txt is stored. Here order. txt is basically Canon Inc. [C
ANON INC. ,], Eastman Kodak Company, Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd. [Fuji Photo Film]
Co. , Ltd.] Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. [Matsu
shita Electric Industrial
Co. , Ltd]
F (Digital Print Order Form)
at) ver. It is described in a format according to 1.0.

In the DPOF, tags for which printing is to be automated are described, but they do not support editing as in the present invention.

On the other hand, order2. txt is a file that can be described as an extended order information file (to be described later) by mainly combining parts effective as problems in production management. This has made it possible to increase the efficiency of print production.

Further, thumbnail images are stored in the “MERGE” folder. The thumbnails stored here are not simply reduced versions of the original images. This is a composite image based on the thinned image confirmed by the customer on the terminal, and can have a very compact data size. In addition, what is confirmed by the customer at the time of ordering can be easily confirmed at the time of printing.

The extended order information file (order2.
txt) is "USER INF" which is customer information, "SHOP INF" which is store information, and "" is order data.
ORDER INF ", print information" PRIN
T INF ”,“ STATUS that is production management information ”
INF ".

FIG. 15A shows these data structures. [USER INF] "USER INF" is composed of order ID, customer ID, password, customer postal code, customer address, customer telephone number, customer name, DB change flag, and the order ID and customer ID are the same as those described above. I do.

The password is information necessary for the customer to authenticate his / her own information via the Internet or the like. Here, by encrypting and entering the password, even if the text is leaked to another person, Information can be protected. Among them, the advantage of describing the password is that it can be used as a means for authenticating the sent order data (if the password has a description error, the order will not be received).

Customer zip code, customer address, customer phone number,
The customer name identifies the customer information and is used to identify contact information and the customer. The identification of the customer is important information for performing cost settlement and the like. However, if the customer ID is originally described, this content is unnecessary. However, there are advantages such as the convenience of knowing the customer name just by looking at the file and the use of a DB change flag described later.

The DB change flag is used when it is desired to modify information registered in the customer database with this order data.

[SHOP INF] "SHOP IN
F "describes a reception store name, a reception store telephone number, a reception store ID, a reception store ID, a reception store name, a parent store ID, and a parent store name. Here, the relationship between the parent store, the reception store, and the reception store is shown in FIG. In the case of a chain shop-type photo shop X, the main shop A is defined as a parent shop, and in this embodiment, it is defined as a production base where the image forming apparatus is installed.

On the other hand, the stores B to F in which the order data creation device is installed do not need to have an image forming device, and therefore can be installed in a place such as a drug store or a convenience store. The reception shop is defined as a reception shop, for example, when a customer visits the shop B and orders a print. The customer is B
If a print completed at the store is received, store B becomes a receiving store, but if it is desired to receive the print at store C near the customer's office, store C becomes a receiving store.

Stores B to E are connected to the Internet via a router. Order data can be transmitted by communication means connected to the order data creation device. Store F has communication means. Therefore, printing can be requested by collecting and distributing media storing order data created by the order data creating apparatus.

It is possible for a customer to create order data using image data from a home via a personal computer by a program for generating order data and request printing from the home. In such a case, As a reception store, the parent store may be used as the reception store, or if there is a store that you usually go to, the store (for example, store D) may be designated as the reception store. At this time, the program can be stored in a disk on a personal computer. However, the user operates a screen provided on the server (viewed by a general-purpose www browser) via the Internet NT and executes order data on the server. Can be executed. The receiving store can specify and receive the store C if receiving at the store is specified, and the receiving store is not particularly specified when mailing is desired.

Here, in order to simply represent each store on the database and to generate an order ID, each store has an ID.
Is given as a parent store ID for a parent store, a reception store ID for a store that has accepted a customer, and a reception store ID for a store that has designated reception.

[ORDER INF] "ORDERIN
F "indicates the sender type, reception number, order time, service type, design number, recording medium type, number of items brought in, total charge, charge type, charge type charge, receiving method, settlement method, order reception date and time, scheduled finish date and time, The finish date and time and the desired delivery date and time are described.

Here, the transmission source type is used to determine from which system the data is sent. The transmission source type is obtained from the order data generating device 11, the one using software on a personal computer, or the one generated on an Internet browser. Enter the type of the item.

The reception numbers are given in the order in which they were received as the store.

The order time describes the time when the customer has confirmed the order data or the time when the transmission was performed when the transmission processing was performed.

The service type represents a service card, such as a business card, a post card, a greeting card, or a calendar.

When the service number is created using a template supplied from a maker or the like, since the ID is defined in the template, information for specifying the ID is described.

The recording medium type refers to a medium such as a post card, a mug, or a T-shirt which the customer wants to form an image. In such a case, the customer can bring in the one designated by the customer and create it. Therefore, if there is any carry-in, indicate the quantity.

[0094] The total charge describes the cost of all the customer burden incurred in ordering this order data.

[0095] The fee type indicates details such as a print fee, a photographing fee, a costume fee, a shipping fee, a fee, and a postcard fee, and the fee charged for each fee type is described in the fee fee.

[0096] The receiving method describes receiving at a store or delivering to home.

[0097] The settlement method describes a method of paying a fee such as in-store payment, credit card, bank transfer, and cash on delivery mail. When using a credit card, the credit card number may be encrypted and described in the credit card. However, when the customer ID is registered, the credit card is registered, and thereafter, such a credit card is registered through a network or the like. It is preferable for security not to give numbers.

The order reception date and time is the time when the order data is determined and the determined order data is received on the production side. In the case of in-store processing, the rendering is performed. In the case of transmission, the server 30 completes the reception. Time.

The scheduled finish date and time is the scheduled finish date and time notified to the customer when the order data is created, and the finish date and time indicate the date and time when the finish was actually completed.

If the desired delivery date and time is home delivery or the like, the customer can also specify the desired delivery date and time and describe the time.

[PRINT INF] "PRINT I
NF "describes the number of prints, print size name, print size width, print size length, and surface quality.

Here, the number of prints describes the number of prints to be made, and the print size name describes a name that directly represents the type of print size within the range in which this service is provided. KG, A4, etc.

The print size width indicates the width of the print in mm, and the same applies to the print size length.

The image quality is described to be glossy or to express the property on the printed surface like silk.

[STATUS INF] "STATUS
In the case of "INF", the production ID, order folder path, backup folder bus, print folder path, order confirmation, rendering status, print preparation status, test print status, print status, final processing date and time, output destination image forming apparatus, transmission status, order It has a type, remarks, and status notification mail flag.

This item is not usually used on the customer side, but is used to track the processing status of order data received at the base where the image forming apparatus is located.

[0107] The order confirmation includes information related to charging.
Indicates whether there is no problem in performing the printing process.
The rendering status indicates whether the image has been rendered using the main image or not.

The print preparation status is determined by the print preparing device 20.
Indicates that the necessary preparations such as print paper are ready.

The test print state indicates whether test print has been performed.

The printing status indicates whether or not the actual printing has been performed.

The final processing date and time indicate the date and time when the product finally becomes ready for shipment (shipment) from the lab.

The output destination image forming apparatus indicates whether there are a plurality of print forming apparatuses 20 or whether an image forming apparatus of a different form such as an ink jet printer is used. This is automatically selected after checking the contents of "PRINT INF" unless otherwise specified.

In the file “layout.tql” in the “LAYOUT” folder, information on the layout of images at the time of editing is described. This file contains media data indicating the media to be printed.
[Media information], 1 frame about frame to paste image data, character data, etc. in template etc.
me data [layout frame information], layout
group data [group information] indicating a relationship between layout frames described in frame data;
Ob indicating editing, synthesis information, etc. for images and character data
In this case, “Jet data [object information]” is described. A specific data structure is shown in FIG.

[Medium Information] As the medium information, the size of the print to be created, the image layout method, and the required number of sheets are stored.

Here, the size is the same as the above-mentioned "PRINT IN".
The same print size length, print size width, and number of prints as described in F ″ are used, but the image layout method does not necessarily mean that the image data has the same aspect ratio and print size aspect ratio when printing an image. In such a case, adjust the printing method so that the image may be partially missing so that no white background remains in the finished print, and adjust so that all the image data is included even if a white background exists Even if the aspect ratio is the same, the image data is not enlarged or reduced in accordance with the print size at all. It has been described.

[Layout Frame Information] The layout frame information describes information about an allocation frame when an image is allocated to a template.

As shown in FIG. 8, an image frame and a character frame are formed on the template as shown in FIG.

As the contents, the number for identifying the frame, its position information, and the position information can be given in units such as the number of pixels or mm, and the size of the frame can be represented in units of pixels or mm. It describes size information, the order of superposition when different frames overlap, a parameter representing a shape such as a square, a circle, an ellipse, a parameter representing text or image data, and information representing an attribute of a layout frame. Here, the attributes of the layout frame are to prohibit position change, restrict or prohibit size change, prohibit layer change, prohibit image change, and prohibit mask change for the frame. The function of the frame, such as prohibiting the selection of the frame itself or prohibiting rotation, can be limited.

[Group Information] In the group information, a relationship between a plurality of pieces of layout frame information is stored to perform grouping.

[Object Information] Object information for images and characters is described. First, as a common term, a type for representing a character object or an image object is described, and a number for identifying a frame described in layout frame information associated therewith is described.

For the image object, editing information such as the name and location of the image data, the location of the mask image used therefor, the image pasting position, enlargement ratio, rotation angle, image quality adjustment parameters, etc. are described.

According to the present invention, since the image designation and editing information are described in this manner, the customer does not need to actually modify the image object (image data itself).
Image quality degradation can be prevented to a minimum. For example, when the customer adjusts the image quality or the like, the gradation may be lost or skipped, and the image once formed cannot be recovered on the receiving side. Therefore, it is important to receive the original image object even when combining images and characters.

Here, since a mask image is particularly difficult to represent with a symbol when pasting an image having a complicated outline, a monochrome image having the outline shape is prepared.
If the image is attached only to that portion, a complicated contour can be easily represented.

When it is desired to arbitrarily blend the outline with the background image, it is relatively easy to define the ratio of the mask image combined with the background as a percentage.

In the case of a character object, a character string definition file name, a location, and a size (width, height, angle) of a character area are described. The above description is described in a form in which a parameter is added to a reserved word representing the content. For example, when the object type is specified in the object information, if the object type is described as [object data] Type = 1 ;, the object type becomes 1, and the object is image (image)
Is selected. Here, Type is a reserved word and 1 is a parameter.

As described above, at the time of ordering, order data can be created at high speed from the address information and the editing information without directly editing the original image. Also, by editing a thinned image instead of a full image, the load on the terminal can be reduced. On the other hand, the image forming apparatus can create a clear print image of a full image from the ordered information.

If the order data created as described above is compressed for each order ID folder and transmitted or stored, it is efficient in terms of capacity and management.

At a developing laboratory (for example, a centralized lab which collectively processes orders for a plurality of stores), after receiving the order data as shown in FIG. 14, the order data is stored in the server 30.

The server 30 decompresses the stored order data and analyzes the order data (step S301 in FIG. 14). At this time, in order to confirm the validity of the order data, authentication may be performed using the user name and password in the extended format part. Basic processing information is extracted from ORDER.TXT, and ORDER2. A slip for confirming the processing step is created together with the contents of TXT (step S302 in FIG. 14).

In this case, when an editing operation such as a business card, a greeting card, or a postcard is involved, merge. When a bmp image is output and attached, the completed image can be confirmed, so that it is possible to confirm whether the produced image is correct or not, which is effective.

When a charge confirmation such as credit card authentication is required, an authentication process is performed (step S30 in FIG. 14).
3), order2.txt, layout. The rendering process is executed using tql (step S304 in FIG. 14).

The rendering process is a process of re-combining images for printing. All the thinned images used at the time of creating the order data are combined using a full image. Then the rendered image and order. Output data (DPOF specification: order.txt is changed to AUTPRINT.MRK almost as it is) based on txt, and the process proceeds to printing (step S30 in FIG. 14).
5). Here, an image forming apparatus to be output is selected from the output destination image forming apparatus information (step S306 in FIG. 14), and DPOF specification data is sent to the image forming apparatus (step S307 in FIG. 14), thereby performing printing (FIG. 14). Step S308).

As described above, order data can be created at high speed from the address information and the edited information without directly editing the original image at the time of ordering. Also, by editing a thinned image instead of a full image, the load on the terminal can be reduced. On the other hand, the image forming apparatus can create a clear print image of a full image from the ordered information.

Further, since the merged composite image is also provided, the image confirmed by the customer can be easily compared with the printed image, and printing failure can be prevented.

As described above, the present invention has been described with reference to the embodiments. However, the present invention should not be construed as being limited to the above embodiments, and it is needless to say that modifications and improvements can be made as appropriate. is there. For example, the above-described program is a PC
It may be stored in another storage medium such as a card or a CD, and may be read by the CPU 16 as needed.

[0136]

According to the present invention, there is provided an order program, a computer-readable storage medium, and an order data creation device capable of easily and quickly ordering at least one of a plurality of services even if the user is unfamiliar with the operation. Provide a system that is more friendly to customers.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a top view of an order data creation device according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the order data creation device according to the embodiment;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a print creating apparatus (image forming apparatus) according to the exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a print creating apparatus.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a display mode of a liquid crystal screen 11;

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a display mode of a liquid crystal screen 11;

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a display mode of a liquid crystal screen 11;

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a display mode of a liquid crystal screen 11;

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a backup file of a print order constructed in an internal memory of a CPU 16;

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an order ID.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a relationship between stores.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of an order.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a flow of order order generation.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the flow of production.

FIG. 15A is a diagram showing the contents of an extended order information file, and FIG. 15B is a diagram showing the contents of a layout information file.

[Explanation of symbols]

 Reference Signs List 10 Order data creation device 11 Liquid crystal screen 14 Reading device 15 Reading / writing device 16 CPU 20 Image forming device (print creation device) 30 Cover member 31 Lock device C Removable media M Removable media NT Internet

Claims (9)

[Claims] In an order program for ordering using image data via a computer, a display for selecting image data is displayed on a screen, and the selection of the image data on the display screen is completed. Is detected,
An order program for performing a series of screen displays for ordering a print based on the selected image data and an order for storing the image data. 2. A series of screens for performing only the print order based on the selected image data together with the first screen display among a series of screen displays for performing the print order and the storage order of the image data. 2. The order program according to claim 1, wherein the first screen display of the screen display is displayed. 3. A series of screen displays for performing only the storage order of the selected image data together with the first screen display of the series of screen displays for performing the print order and the storage order of the image data. 3. The first screen display of claim 1 is displayed.
The ordering program described in. 4. In a computer-readable recording medium recording an order program for making an order using image data via a computer, a display for selecting image data is displayed on a screen by the order program. When it is detected that the selection of the image data on the display screen is completed, a series of screen displays for performing a print order based on the selected image data and a storage order of the image data are performed. Characteristic computer readable recording medium. 5. A print order based on the selected image data as well as a first screen display of a series of screen displays for performing the print order and the storage order of the image data by the order program. 6. The computer-readable recording medium according to claim 5, wherein a first screen display of a series of screen displays for performing the above is displayed. 6. The method according to claim 1, wherein the order program is used to execute only the storage order of the selected image data together with the first screen display among a series of screen displays for performing the print order and the storage order of the image data. 6. The computer-readable recording medium according to claim 4, wherein a first screen display of a series of screen displays is displayed. 7. An order data creation device for making an order using image data via a computer, a display means for displaying a display for selecting image data on a screen, and a display unit for displaying the image data on the display screen. Detecting means for detecting that the selection has been completed, and displaying a series of screen displays for performing a print order based on the selected image data and a storage order of the image data based on the detection of the detecting means. An order data creation device, wherein the order data is created by the display means. 8. The display device according to claim 1, wherein the display unit is configured to display only the print order based on the selected image data together with the first screen display among a series of screen displays for performing the print order and the storage order of the image data. 8. The order data creation device according to claim 7, wherein a first screen display of a series of screen displays for performing the operation is displayed. 9. The display means for performing only a storage order of the selected image data together with a first screen display in a series of screen displays for performing the print order and the storage order of the image data. 9. The order data creation device according to claim 7, wherein the first screen display of the series of screen displays is displayed.