JP4225438B2 - Imaging system - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an imaging system suitable for installation in a sightseeing spot or a theme park. Also, the installation location is not limited to sightseeing spots and theme parks.
[0002]
[Prior art]
When taking a photo of a subject at a tourist spot or a theme park, a self-timer is often used.
[0003]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, taking a picture using the self-timer requires a holding means such as a tripod, which is inconvenient to carry.
In addition, there are cases where tourists are prohibited from taking pictures from scenic spots, temples, and historic sites from the viewpoints of risk prevention, environmental protection, cultural property protection, etc. In general, such a place is often suitable as an object to be photographed. Therefore, simply prohibiting photographing may cause the opposite effect. Therefore, it is conceivable to achieve the prohibited purpose by providing photographing means in an appropriate place to absorb tourists' desire to photograph.
[0004]
It is an object of the present invention to provide an imaging system that can be installed in a place suitable for shooting a tourist spot or a theme park and photograph a photographer himself as a subject.
[0005]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
  In order to achieve the above object, an imaging system according to a first aspect of the present invention provides an ID number to an imaging means.A plurality of remote control means for transmitting an imaging commandAnd an imaging unit which is arranged in advance at a predetermined position and obtains image data by imaging a subject based on an imaging command transmitted from the remote control unitShooting right information corresponding to each of the plurality of remote control means, and determining whether or not to allow shooting by each of the remote control means in view of the shooting right information, and the remote control meansTo the ID number sent with the imaging commandControl means for classifying and holding the image data transmitted from the imaging means based on;
Consists ofIt is characterized by.
[0006]
  The second invention is the imaging system of the first invention, wherein the remote control means has a receiving means for receiving a signal transmitted from the imaging means,Image data that is the imaging result and / Or a notification that the number of imaging rights has expiredFeatures.
[0007]
  The third invention is the imaging system of the first invention, and the remote control means is provided from the imaging means.The image data that is the shooting resultDisplay means for displaying;
[0008]
  The fourth invention is the imaging system of the first invention,Furthermore, the remote control meansDisplay means for displaying the number of shootable images that are updated each time an imaging command is transmitted.
[0009]
  In addition, the fifth invention,The photographing right information is stored, the photographing right information is updated and displayed on the display means, and a plurality of remote control means for transmitting an ID number and an imaging command to the imaging means are disposed in a predetermined position in advance. An imaging unit that captures an image of a subject based on an imaging command transmitted from the remote control unit and obtains image data; and the image transmitted from the imaging unit based on an ID number transmitted together with the imaging command from the remote control unit. And a control means for classifying and holding data..
[0010]
  The sixth invention provides the above-mentioned1 or 5In the imaging system of the invention, the control means adds the information related to the imaging means to the captured image data and stores it.
[0011]
  Further, a seventh invention is the above-mentioned first1 or 5In the imaging system according to the present invention, the control means further includes an output means for printing out each image classified and held.
[0012]
  The eighth invention is the above-mentioned eighth invention.1 or 5In the imaging system of the invention, the control means includes an output means for outputting to the storage medium for each image classified and held.
[0013]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
<Configuration of imaging system>
FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of an imaging system of the present invention. Hereinafter, an example in which the imaging system of the present invention is installed in a theme park will be described.
[0014]
The imaging system 100 includes an imaging terminal 10 including a camera unit 11, a television-like monitor unit 13, and support legs (or support stands) 16 that support them, and an imager (entrancer) 1 as shown in FIG. Is comprised of a remote controller (hereinafter referred to as a remote control device) 20 and a center device 30 connected to the imaging terminal 10 via a LAN (Local Area Network) 40.
[0015]
The terminal device 10 is installed in a place where many visitors want to take a picture such as a nice view of a theme park or a plaza, or in a place where it is difficult to take a personal picture such as a front part of a vehicle seat or a spot of an attraction. ing. The imaging terminal 10 includes an infrared input / output unit 15.
[0016]
The remote controller 20 has a thin shape comparable to that of a small calculator, and is provided with an imaging button 21 ', a number-of-shoots setting button 21 ", a display unit 24, and an infrared input / output unit 23 (FIG. 4). A loan is given to a visitor when entering the theme park, and a predetermined number of times that the image can be taken (for example, the number of rights to take 20 times) is preset in the rented remote control device 20.
At the time of imaging, if the attendant 1 presses the imaging button 21 ′ of the remote control device 20 while checking the monitor 13 in front of the imaging terminal 10, an imaging instruction signal or the like is transmitted from the remote control device 20. When the imaging terminal 10 receives an imaging instruction signal or the like, the camera unit 11 operates to perform imaging. The number of images and the number of images that can be captured are displayed on the display unit 24 of the remote controller 20 (in the example of FIG. 1B, the number of images that can be captured “2” and the number of images that can be captured “18” are shown).
Further, when an additional order is issued when the number of imaging rights is exhausted, the information is sent to the center 30 and, for example, 10 imaging rights are granted. In FIG. 1, reference numeral 2 denotes a character doll (bear).
[0017]
The imaging terminal 10 receives an imaging instruction signal from the remote control device 20 to perform imaging, and transmits imaging data together with the ID number of the remote control device to the center device 30 provided at a predetermined place in the theme park via the LAN 40. At this time, the data for one captured image may be transmitted to the remote control device 20 side, and the remote control device 20 may receive the data and display it on the display unit 24 to allow the photographer to check the shooting state.
[0018]
The center apparatus 30 side captures the image data, classifies it for each remote control apparatus based on the ID number, and prints out the photograph. The photographer receives a print (photograph) that matches the ID number of the remote control device 20 at the exit where the center device 30 is installed, and pays the fee and returns the remote control device 20.
The number of prints may be set in advance, or the number of prints may be designated for each shooting. Further, the image data may be stored and provided in a storage medium (for example, FD) instead of the print output.
If there are a plurality of outlets, a printing device and an infrared input / output device are installed for each outlet, and are connected to the center device 30 via a LAN. At the outlet, the print is delivered, the fee is settled, and the monitoring device is collected. It may be.
[0019]
<Circuit Configuration Example and Operation Example of Imaging Terminal>
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a circuit configuration of the imaging terminal. The imaging terminal 10 includes a camera unit 11, a control unit 12, a monitor unit 13, an image memory 14, an infrared input / output unit 15, and a data transmission / reception unit 16. . Further, as an additional configuration, an imaging guide or an audio output device for waiting time notification may be provided.
[0020]
The camera unit 11 is an electronic camera device that can convert an optical image of a subject such as a digital camera into an electrical signal and digitize it to obtain image data, and sends the image data (video data) to the monitor unit 13. At the same time, imaging is performed by an imaging instruction signal from the remote control device 20, and the captured image data (still image data) is recorded in the image memory 14.
[0021]
The control unit 12 includes an MPU having a CPU, a RAM, and a ROM (not shown). The CPU is connected to the above-described circuits via a bus line, and controls the entire imaging terminal by a program stored in the ROM. In response to the signal received from the remote control device 20, the execution control of each function of the camera unit 11 is performed and the communication control for data transmission / reception with the center device 30 is performed. The RAM corresponds to an internal memory, and is used for temporary storage of the ID number of the remote control device 20 sent from the center device 30, temporary storage of programs, data and processing results, and an intermediate work area. The ROM is a recording medium for recording the above-described program, and PROM, FROM (flash ROM) or the like is used.
When receiving the ID number of the remote controller 20 and the imaging instruction signal from the infrared input / output unit 15, the control unit 12 gives the imaging instruction signal to the camera unit 11. Further, when receiving the ID number of the remote control device 20 and the print number or right number addition request signal from the infrared input / output unit 15, it is given to the data transmission / reception unit 16.
Further, after imaging, a print number instruction request signal is sent to the infrared input / output unit 15. Further, when receiving the ID number of the remote control device 20 and the right number expiration signal or the additional right number from the data transmitting / receiving unit 16, it is given to the infrared input / output unit 15.
[0022]
The monitor unit 13 is composed of a video monitor device such as a commercially available television receiver, for example, and converts the video data from the camera unit 11 into a video signal and displays it on the screen.
[0023]
The image memory 14 stores image data for one image sent from the camera unit 11 each time an image is taken.
[0024]
The infrared input / output unit 15 receives and demodulates the ID number modulated in the infrared signal transmitted from the remote control device 20, the imaging instruction signal, and the print number / right number addition request signal, and sends it to the control unit 12. Further, when receiving the ID number of the imaging device 10, the ID number of the remote control device, the print number instruction request signal, the right-number-of-rights-notification signal and the additional right-number number from the control unit 12, it is modulated into an infrared signal and attached with the ID number. Send it out.
[0025]
The data transmission / reception unit 16 transmits the ID number stored in the RAM and the data stored in the image memory to the center device 30 via the LAN 40 under the control of the control unit 12. The transmission / reception unit 16 also transmits a print number / right number addition request signal from the control unit 12 to the center device 30 via the LAN 40. The transmission / reception unit 16 receives the ID number, the number-of-rights-out notification signal, and the additional right number from the center device 30 via the LAN 40 and sends them to the control unit 12.
Also, a code indicating display data for displaying the ID number or the installation location of the imaging terminal, and the like, information relating to the imaging terminal 10, such as temperature, is transmitted from the imaging terminal 10 to the center device 30 via the LAN 40. May be.
[0026]
<Example of circuit configuration and operation of remote control device>
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration example of the remote control device. The remote control device 20 includes an operation unit 21, a control unit 22, an infrared input / output unit 23, and a display unit 24.
[0027]
The operation unit 21 has an imaging instruction button 21 ′ and a print number setting button 22 ″. When the imaging instruction button 21 ′ or the print number setting button 22 ″ is pressed, a signal is sent to the CPU of the control unit 22.
The control unit 22 has a CPU, a RAM as an internal memory, and a ROM for storing a program. When the signal from the operation unit 21 is received, the control unit 22 determines that the signal is received. In addition to sending the instruction number to the infrared input / output unit, 1 is added to the imaging counter provided in the RAM, and 1 is similarly subtracted from the imaging possible number counter provided in the RAM and sent to the display unit 24.
The control unit 22 also analyzes the digital signal from the infrared transmission / reception unit 23 and invalidates it when there is no self ID number. When there is a self ID number, the signal following the ID number is a print number instruction request signal. In the case of, a message prompting “input number of prints” is displayed on the display unit 24, and in the case of a right-number-out notification signal, a display prompting “input whether to request additional rights number” is displayed on the display unit 24. For example, a zero display of the number of shootable images and a blinking display of the print number setting button 21 "are prompted to prompt the user to input, and if the number of additional rights is counted, the additional rights number value is added to the shootable number counter.
[0028]
When a signal from the operation unit 21 (print number setting button 21 ") is received after the message for prompting" input the number of prints ", the number of signals is counted and the ID number and the number of prints are sent to the infrared input / output unit. Further, when the print number setting button 21 "is pressed after the display prompting" input whether to request additional right number ", an additional right number request signal is given to the infrared input / output unit 23. When the additional right number is detected from the infrared input / output unit 23, the additional right number value is added to the photographing number counter.
[0029]
The infrared input / output unit 23 modulates an ID number and an imaging instruction number, or an ID number and a print number / right number addition request signal into an infrared signal and transmits the infrared signal. The infrared input / output unit 23 also demodulates the received infrared signal to obtain a digital signal and sends it to the control unit 22.
[0030]
The display unit 24 includes a screen composed of liquid crystal display elements, and can display various operation instruction messages, the number of captured images, the number of images that can be captured, and the like.
[0031]
<Circuit configuration example and operation example of center device>
[Circuit configuration]
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the center device. The center device 30 includes an operation unit 31, an infrared input / output device 32, a control unit 33, a memory 34, a data transmission / reception unit 35, and a rental button and a return button. An image printing device 36 is provided. Further, a large capacity recording device 39 such as a checkout printer 37, an FD (floppy disk) device 38, and a magnetic disk (HD) device (or an optical disk device) may be provided as an additional device.
[0032]
The operation unit 31 is operated when the remote control device is rented or returned. The infrared input / output device 32 exchanges signals with the remote control device when the remote control device is rented or returned.
[0033]
The control unit 33 includes an MPU having a CPU, a RAM, and a ROM (not shown). The CPU is connected to each of the above-described circuits via a bus line, and controls the entire imaging terminal by a program stored in the ROM. A bit for color printing of image data using a setting (cancellation) process at the time of lending / returning the remote control device and a print data conversion module (configured by a program or configured by a hardware circuit in the embodiment) Map data conversion processing, communication control for data transmission / reception with each imaging device via the LAN 40, and the like are performed. In addition, when there are many imaging terminals, it is desirable to provide a communication control part separately.
[0034]
As shown in FIG. 5, the memory 34 is provided with image buffers 51-1, 42-2,... 42-n for each imaging terminal, and temporarily stores images captured for each imaging terminal in the buffer sequentially. In the memory 34, an area 52 for the counter table 60 as shown in FIG.
[0035]
The data transmission / reception unit 35 transmits / receives data to / from a plurality of imaging terminals via the LAN 40, takes the received image data into the input buffer, and is free at a predetermined timing under the control of the control unit 33. DMA transfer to i. Further, the received ID number of the imaging terminal and the ID number of the remote control device are sent to the control unit 33. The data transmission / reception unit 35 also transmits the ID number and the additional right number of the remote control device sent from the control unit 33 to the imaging terminal specified by the ID number via the LAN 40.
[0036]
The image printing apparatus 36 includes a printing controller (program), takes a color printing bitmap image sent from the main body side into a print buffer, prints and reproduces a color image. In this case, a printed notification signal is transmitted to the control unit 33 of the main body every time one image is printed.
[0037]
The checkout printer 37, which is an additional device, is a print printer dedicated to the fee adjustment report and the summary table, and is connected inline to the center device 30 or via the LAN 40 when there are many exits. Further, the FD device 38 and the HD device 39 which are additional devices are provided when an FD image input service is provided to a visitor who wants to take home FD in place of FD photo (image) printing at the time of entrance.
When the imaging terminal 10 is configured to transmit a code or the like indicating display data indicating the ID number or the installation location of the imaging terminal, the counter table 60 is associated with the transmitted image data. It is also possible to retrieve a message code (not shown) that is stored in the message and separately registered at the time of output, print out the message code, or output it to the FD.
[0038]
[Main operations of the center device and remote control device during lending / returning]
At the time of lending, the clerk points the infrared input / output unit side 23 of the remote control device 20 to the infrared input device 32 side of the center device 30 and presses the lending button. '20') is transmitted, received by the infrared input / output unit 23 of the remote control device 20, demodulated, and the right number is set in the imaging counter. Also, the modulated ID number is transmitted via the infrared input / output unit 23 of the remote control device 20, received / demodulated by the infrared input device 32 of the center device 30, and sent to the control unit 33 together with the lending signal.
[0039]
When receiving the lending signal and the ID number, the control unit 33 searches the count table 60 of the memory 34 using the lending signal and the ID number as a key, and sets a numerical value “20” in the imaging right number field 62 of the matched table record.
In addition, when the control unit 33 inserts the remote control device at the time of return and presses the return button, an ID number inquiry signal is transmitted to the remote control device side via the infrared input / output device 32. When receiving the ID number inquiry signal via the infrared input / output unit, the remote control device transmits its own ID number to the center device 30 via the infrared input / output unit. When the center device 30 receives the ID number of the remote control device returned via the infrared input / output device 32, it sends it to the control unit 33 together with a return signal.
Upon receiving the return signal and the ID number, the control unit 33 searches the count table 60 in the memory 34 using the return signal and the key as a key, and clears the imaging right number field 62 and the printed number field 64 of the table record 60 with the matching ID number to zero, The maximum value is set in the image recording address field 63.
[0040]
[Main operations of control unit during data transmission / reception]
The control unit 33 also controls the storage order of the image data received from the data transmission / reception unit 35 in the image buffer and the output order to the image printing apparatus 36.
The control unit 33 also temporarily stores in the RAM the ID number of the imaging terminal that transmitted the image data and the ID number of the remote control device that issued the imaging instruction. Then, the count table 60 is searched using the ID number of the remote control device as a key, and the recording address (first address) of the image data stored in the image recording address field 63 of the matched count data is stored (FIG. 6).
[0041]
Further, when the number of prints is designated, the ID number of the remote control device and the designated number of prints are temporarily stored in the RAM, and the imaging right number P of the device number and each image already stored in the memory 34 are stored. A comparison is made with the total number of printed sheets and the total number of printed sheets stored in the RAM Σpi, P> Σp_i If so, the designated print number is stored in the storage position corresponding to the image in the print number field 64. P ≦ Σp_i Then, the character code of the message that means “the number of rights over” and “number of sheets that can be specified” (= P−ΣP_i-1 ) And a character code of a message asking whether or not “request for additional right number” is sent to the data transmitting / receiving unit 34.
[0042]
When the ID number of the imaging terminal, the ID number of the remote control device, and the right number addition request signal are received from the data transmitting / receiving unit 34, the count table 60 is searched using the ID number of the remote control device as a key, and the matching count record The additional right number (“10” in the embodiment) is added to the photographing right number column 62, and the ID number, ID number, and additional right number of the imaging terminal are sent to the data transmitting / receiving unit 35.
[0043]
The control unit 32 sequentially searches each storage area of the image storage address field 63 of the counter table 60, and based on the stored contents, the image data from any of the image buffers 51-1 to 51-n of the memory 50. Is converted into bitmap data for color printing using a printing data conversion module, and is transmitted to the image printing device 36 together with the number of printed images recorded in the number-of-prints column 64. Also, a printed notification signal is obtained every time an image is printed from the image printing device 35, and 1 is subtracted from the number of printed sheets of the image recorded in the number-of-prints column 64. If the value of the storage area is the maximum value [FF ·· FF] when searching the image storage address column 63 of the counter table 60, the storage area is skipped.
[0044]
<Example of memory configuration of center device>
FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of the memory 34 of the center device.
In the memory 34, as shown in FIG. 5, image buffers 51-1, 42-2,... 42-n are provided for each imaging terminal. Images taken for each imaging terminal are temporarily stored in the image buffers 51-1, 42-2, ... 42-n. The order of storing the image data is cyclically stored in time series as image buffers 51-1, 42-2,... 42-n, 51-1.
[0045]
That is, image data from each imaging terminal (k) is stored in the image buffer in the order of arrival, and when the image buffer is full, a queue state is entered. When a waiting state occurs, even if an image is taken on the imaging terminal side, the image cannot be taken until the image memory of the imaging terminal becomes empty. In order to avoid the occurrence of a waiting state, the number of image buffers may be increased, but the capacity of the memory 34 has physical / cost restrictions. Here, when the image output time is T, the maximum value MAXS of the total number of times of imaging of all the imaging terminals within the T time and the cumulative number of stored images until immediately before are statistically estimated, and the capacity of the memory 34 is determined. The waiting time t is calculated so that t ≧ MAXS / n from the maximum number n of buffers that can be secured from “When the waiting state occurs, the monitor screen of the imaging terminal indicates that“ t seconds are required until the next imaging ”,“ It is possible to display a message saying “I can take an image” or to give a voice notification. The maximum value MAXS can be estimated from the number of rented remote control devices, the weather, the time zone, etc., and the average residence time of the remote control lender. In the embodiment, n = 300. Further, it is possible to prevent the waiting state from occurring by connecting a plurality of image printing apparatuses 37 (for example, corresponding to each imaging terminal).
[0046]
In addition, since one image buffer is provided each time an image is printed, the image data of one of the imaging terminals can be stored in the vacant image buffer. As described above, the image buffer numbers 51-1, 42-2,..., 42-n, and 51-1 are not circulated in this order. That is, the contents of the storage area stored in the image storage address field 63 for each remote control ID number field 61 of the count table 60 are read out according to the print schedule managed by the control unit 33, and the image storage address specified by that is read out. (= Head address of image buffer) is specified, and image data stored in the image buffer is read out.
[0047]
<Structure example of counter table>
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the structure of the counter table provided in the memory 34 of the center apparatus. The counter table 60 includes an ID number field 61, an imaging right number field 62, an image storage address field 63, and a number of printed sheets. A column 64 is provided. Moreover, you may provide the terminal information column 65 as an additional structure.
[0048]
In the remote control ID number column 61, remote control IDs of all remote control devices (k pieces) managed by the center device 30 are registered in advance.
In the imaging right frequency column 62, “20” is set as the “right number” when each remote control device is lent. Further, when there is a request for the number of additional rights, the number is added. Further, the imaging right frequency column 62 is cleared to zero when each remote control device is lent.
[0049]
The image storage address field 63 is a storage area for storing each storage address of an image photographed by the remote control device for each remote control device (in FIG. 6, “Image 1”, “Image 2”,. .. (part represented by “image m”) are provided and stored in “image 1”, “image 2”,... In the order of shooting (in FIG. 6, for the sake of explanation, the image buffer number “51-1” is stored). ”,“ 51-5 ”, but in practice, the storage address (first address) of the image data in the memory 34 is stored).
The terminal information column 65 is a storage area for recording the ID number of the imaging terminal that captured the image, the code indicating the installation information of the imaging terminal, environmental information such as temperature, etc. (“Image 1” in “Terminal information” in FIG. 6). , “Image 2”,..., “Image m”). When this field 65 is provided, a message table (not shown) that can be searched for in advance by the ID number or code stored in this field 65 is provided in the memory 34, and the message is added when the image is output. Can be output.
[0050]
With the configuration of the counter table 70, images captured for each remote control device can be classified and stored.
In the present embodiment, the maximum storage number m = 50. However, it may be appropriately determined in consideration of the capacity of the memory 34 and the number of remote control devices managed by the center device 30 due to the configuration of the imaging system 100.
[0051]
The number-of-prints column 64 has the same number of printed-sheet storage areas as the storage area for storing each storage address of images (in FIG. 6, the notations “Image 1”, “Image 2”,. , A portion represented by “image m”), and the number of prints corresponding to the image in which the storage address is stored in each storage area of the image storage address 63 column is “image 1”, “image 2”,・ ・ Memorized. Further, when the number of prints of each image is designated by the user of the remote control device, the designated number is set individually, and is subtracted by “1” each time printing is performed.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the operations of the imaging terminal 10, the remote control device 20, and the center device 30 in the imaging system 100, and a series of cycles from lending the remote control device 20 to photographing and returning the remote control device 20 will be described as an example. .
[0052]
[Loan processing]
When the clerk presses the lending button on the operation unit 31 of the center device 30 to perform lending operation and gives it to the visitor who has applied for application (hereinafter referred to as user) (S1), the remote control device 20 has the number of rights to image (20 images). And the number of images is set in the image-capable number counter. Further, the ID number of the remote control device i is passed to the center device 30 (S2). On the center device 30 side, the counter table 60 is searched based on the read ID number of the remote control device i, and initial values (number of images to be captured (= 20) and number of prints (= 1) are set in the matched counter records. The process proceeds to S10 (S3).
[0053]
[Imaging]
When the user of the remote control device 20 points the tip of the remote control device 20 toward the image pickup device 10 and presses the image pickup instruction button 21 ′, the ID number of the remote control device 20 and the image pickup instruction signal are modulated into infrared rays and transmitted in the direction of the image pickup terminal 10. . The remote controller 20 displays the number of captured images and the number of images that can be captured (S4).
Upon receiving the ID number of the remote control device 20 and the imaging instruction signal, the imaging terminal 10 operates the camera unit 11 to image a subject (usually including a user (photographer) of the remote control device 20), and images the captured image. The ID number of the remote controller 20 is temporarily stored in the RAM of the control unit 11 while being temporarily stored in the memory 14 (S5). Next, an ID number of the remote control device 20 is attached and a print number instruction request signal is sent to the remote control device 20, and the process proceeds to S9.
[0054]
[Send image data and number of prints]
On the remote control device 20 side, a print number instruction message is displayed to prompt the user to input the print number. If the user does not press the number setting button for one minute, the process proceeds to S9 (S7). When the user presses the number-of-printing-settings button 21 "and continues to press it for about 5 seconds, the ID number of the remote control device 20 and the number of printed pages are modulated into infrared rays and transmitted to the imaging device 10 (S8).
On the imaging terminal 10 side, the infrared rays from the remote control device 20 are demodulated, the ID number and the number of printed sheets are taken out, and transmitted to the center device 30 via the LAN 40 together with the image data. If the ID number and the number of prints are not transmitted from the remote control device 20 even after two minutes have passed, the ID number stored in the RAM is taken out and the number of prints is set to “1”, and the LAN 40 is connected together with the image data and the image data. To the center device 30 (S9).
[0055]
[Data reception processing, etc.]
On the side of the center device 30, the reception of transmission data from each installed imaging terminal data is waited. If data is received, the process proceeds to S 11. If no data is received, the reception wait is continued (S 10). .
When data from the imaging terminal 10 is received in S10, data reception processing is performed, and the image data is stored in the empty image buffer 51-i of the memory 34, and the count table 60 is stored with the ID number of the remote control device 20. The remote control ID column 61 is searched and the address of the image buffer is stored in the address storage area of the image storage address column 63 of the count record of the coincident ID number, and the number of prints is stored in the number storage area of the print number column 64 ( S11).
Next, the total number of prints stored in the number storage area of the number-of-prints column 64 is taken, and when the number of image capture rights is less than the total number of images compared to the number of image capture rights, the process proceeds to S13. The process proceeds to S19 (S12).
[0056]
[Adding the number of imaging rights]
When the center device 30 side transmits an imaging right number expiration notification signal to the imaging terminal 10 via the LAN 40 when the number of imaging rights is less than the total number in S12 (S13), the signal from the center device 30 is transmitted to the imaging terminal 10 side. Is received, and when it is an imaging right number out-of-stock notification signal, it is modulated into infrared rays together with the ID number of the remote control device 20 and transmitted (S14).
[0057]
The remote control device 20 side receives the infrared signal from the imaging terminal 10 side, demodulates the digital data, and displays a message asking whether or not an additional right can be requested on the display unit 24 when it is an imaging right number expiration notification signal. When an additional request is made, the additional number of sheets request signal is pressed together with the ID number of the remote control device 20 and sent out (S16). Further, when no additional request is made, no further imaging can be performed, so the user holds the remote control device as it is and returns it when leaving. Note that the message asking whether or not the additional right request can be displayed displayed on the display unit 24 is not erased until the return operation is performed, and the user presses the print number instruction button at any timing before the return operation to return the additional right number request signal. , And the imaging can be resumed by obtaining the additional right number of sheets along the steps after S17.
[0058]
When the remote control device 20 transmits the additional right number request signal in S16, the imaging terminal 10 receives and demodulates the infrared signal from the remote control device 20, and when it is the additional imaging right request signal, the ID number of the remote control device 20 is received. At the same time, the data is transmitted to the center apparatus 30 via the LAN 40 (S17).
The center device 30 receives the ID number and the additional right number request signal from the imaging terminal 10, searches the remote control ID number column 61 of the count table 60 by the ID number, and acquires the number of imaging rights of the count record with the matching ID number. The additional right number is added to the field 63 to update the imaging right number field 62 (S18), the additional right number is transmitted to the imaging terminal 10 together with the ID number of the remote control device 20, and the process proceeds to S23 (S19).
The imaging terminal 10 modulates the received ID number and additional right number of the remote control device 20 into infrared rays and transmits the infrared rays to the outside (S20), and the remote control device 20 side receives and modulates the infrared signals and takes out the digital signals. If the additional right number is included, the additional right number is added to the image pickup possible number counter of the RAM, and the process returns to S4 to wait for the image pickup timing (S21).
[0059]
[Image print processing]
If the number of imaging rights is not expired in S12 or when the additional rights number is transmitted in S19, the image printing device 36 performs image (photo) printing. In this case, the ID number of the remote controller, the ID number of the imaging terminal, and the shooting date and time are printed together with the image (S22). After the image is printed, 1 is subtracted from the content (= number of printed sheets) of the printed number storage area corresponding to the printed image in the printed number column 64 of the count table 60 (S23). When the terminal information column 65 is provided in the count table and information from the imaging terminal is recorded, information such as the shooting location and temperature can be printed together.
[0060]
Next, it is determined whether there is a data reception interrupt from the imaging terminal 10 by examining the interrupt status signal. If there is a reception interrupt, the process proceeds to S10. In this case, the image printing process being executed is continued without being interrupted (S24). If there is no reception interruption, it is checked whether or not there is still an image picked up by the remote controller 20, and if there is, the process returns to S22 and the next image is printed (S25). If there is no image picked up by the remote control device 20, it is checked whether or not there is still an image picked up by another remote control device, and if there is, the process returns to S22 to print the image of the next remote control device. In this case, the process returns to S10 to wait for data reception (S26).
[0061]
[Return processing]
If there is no additional request operation in S15 and the user returns the remote control device 20, when the clerk performs a return operation by pressing the return button of the center device 30 (S27), the imaging number counter and the imaging of the remote control device 20 are performed. The possible number counter is cleared to zero, and the ID number of the remote control device 20 is modulated into infrared rays and transmitted (S28). The center device 30 receives and demodulates the infrared signal to extract the ID number, and the remote control of the count table 60 The ID number column 61 is searched to check the print column of the matching ID number, and if there is an unprinted image, the print processing is preferentially performed and the remaining image is printed. If there is no unprinted image (there is no more), the imaging right number field 62 and the printed number field of the count record of the ID number are cleared to zero, the maximum value is stored in the image storage address field 63, and the remote control device 20 Is completed (S29).
[0062]
In the above description, the case where the photograph is printed by the image printing apparatus and passed when the remote control device is returned has been described. However, the FD device 38 is provided so that the image data can be provided by the FD at the request of the visitor when the remote control is lent. The image data may be stored in the FD and provided when the remote control device is returned. In this case, a large capacity storage device such as an HD device 39 or an optical disk may be provided as an auxiliary memory of the memory 34 (FIG. 4).
Although one embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and it goes without saying that various modifications can be made.
[0063]
【The invention's effect】
  As explained above,1st or 5th inventionAccording to the imaging system, since the imaging means is disposed in advance at a predetermined position, for example, a scenic spot or a place suitable for shooting a theme park, the photographer does not have to carry the imaging means himself, In addition, there is no need to carry a pointing device such as a tripod. In addition, it is possible to capture images at a preset suitable angle or an angle that cannot be normally captured by an individual.
[0064]
According to the imaging system of the second invention, since the imaging means gives the photographing result to the remote control means, an output means is provided on the remote control means side to check the photographing result or to obtain an image or image data. it can.
[0065]
Further, according to the imaging system of the third invention, the imaging means gives the photographing result to the remote control means, and the remote control means can display the photographing result on the display means and confirm the image appearance, so that the angle is not satisfactory. You can retake it directly.
[0066]
Further, according to the imaging system of the fourth aspect of the invention, the remote control device can display the number of images that can be imaged, so that the photographer can quickly take measures in preparation for the shortage of images.
[0068]
According to the imaging system of the sixth aspect of the invention, since the control means classifies / records information related to the imaging means together with the image data, an imaging condition such as the name of the installation location of the imaging means and the temperature is added when outputting the image. Can be output.
[0069]
Further, according to the imaging system of the seventh invention, since the printing means is provided in the control means, it is possible to print out the images classified / recorded at a predetermined timing after imaging.
[0070]
According to the imaging system of the eighth aspect of the invention, since the image classified / recorded at a predetermined timing after imaging can be output to a storage medium, for example, FD, the output time can be shortened, and the subsequent image data Can be expected.
[0071]
In the present invention, a program AE that takes into account changes in date and time, weather, etc. can be set in advance for each terminal based on the arrangement form of the terminal. For example, it is possible to shoot under optimal conditions as described in a pamphlet of a theme park, and it is possible to provide good photographic data that can be very effectively differentiated from photographic results taken by individuals.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of an imaging system of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of an imaging terminal.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of a remote control device.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a center device.
FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of a memory configuration of the center device.
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the structure of a counter table provided in the memory of the center device.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating operations of an imaging terminal, a remote control device, and a center device in the imaging system.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 Photographer (subject)
2 Character doll (subject)
10 Imaging terminal (imaging means)
13 Monitor section (monitoring means)
20 Remote control device (remote control means)
23 Infrared input / output unit (reception means)
24 Display section (display means)
30 Center device (control means)
36 Image printing device (output means)
38 FD device (output means)

Claims (8)

A plurality of remote control means for transmitting an ID number and an imaging command to the imaging means ;
An imaging unit which is arranged in advance at a predetermined position and obtains image data by imaging a subject based on an imaging command transmitted from the remote control unit ;
Shooting right information corresponding to each of the plurality of remote control means is stored, and whether or not shooting is possible by each of the remote control means is determined in view of the shooting right information, and an ID number transmitted from the remote control means together with the imaging command is determined. Control means for classifying and holding the image data transmitted from the imaging means based on;
Imaging system characterized in that it is composed of. The remote control means has a receiving means for receiving a signal transmitted from the imaging means,
2. The imaging system according to claim 1, wherein the imaging unit provides the remote control unit with image data that is an imaging result and / or a notification that the number of imaging rights has expired . 2. The imaging system according to claim 1, wherein said remote control means further comprises display means for displaying image data which is a photographing result given from said imaging means. 2. The imaging system according to claim 1, wherein the remote control means further comprises display means for displaying the number of shootable images updated every time the imaging command is transmitted. A plurality of remote control means for storing photographing right information, updating the photographing right information and displaying the photographing right information on the display means, and transmitting an ID number and an imaging command to the imaging means;
An imaging unit which is arranged in advance at a predetermined position and captures an image of a subject based on an imaging command transmitted from the remote control unit;
Control means for classifying and holding the image data transmitted from the imaging means based on an ID number transmitted together with the imaging command from the remote control means;
An imaging system comprising: 6. The imaging system according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit stores information about the imaging unit added to the captured image data. 6. The imaging system according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit further includes an output unit that prints out each classified and held image. 6. The imaging system according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit further includes an output unit that outputs the classified and held images to a storage medium.

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