JP4622628B2 - Printing system - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a printing system for receiving a photographic print order and creating a photographic print.

  Recently installed at the DP store, a print order receiving device for receiving photo print orders from customers, and installed in the DP store store and connected to the print order receiving device by a data transmission network. There is known a printing system including a photo processing device that creates a photo print based on the order contents transmitted from the print order receiving device (see Patent Document 1).

  A print order receiving apparatus provided in such a print system has a touch panel display. Then, when a medium storing an image data file brought by the customer is set in the print order receiving apparatus, a thumbnail image corresponding to the image data file stored in the medium is displayed on the display. The customer can check the thumbnail image displayed on the display and input order information such as a correction value and the number of prints of the image via the touch panel.

Print information including an image data file for which the customer has ordered printing and order information relating to the image data file is transmitted to the photo processing apparatus. At this time, in the storage unit of the photo processing apparatus, the image data file group included in the print information collectively transmitted from the print order receiving apparatus is stored in one data folder. Then, the photo processing apparatus performs print processing of a plurality of image data files stored in the storage unit in units of data folders.
JP 2003-121946 A

  By the way, after the print information is transmitted from the print order receiving apparatus to the photo processing apparatus, the customer may desire to change the correction value, add / reduce the print image, or change the number of prints. Here, the print information relating to the data folder in which the print process has already started cannot be changed. Further, in such a print system, the customer who operates the print order receiving device does not know whether the photo processing device has started the print processing of the image data file group related to the print information desired to be corrected. Accordingly, there is a problem in that the customer cannot know whether or not the print information can be changed even if the print processing has not yet started.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to allow an operator who inputs order information to know whether or not the print information related to the data folder storing the image data file in which the order information is input can be changed. It is to provide a printing system.

Means and effects for solving the problems

  A printing system according to the present invention is a printing system that accepts an order for a photographic print and creates a photographic print. The reading system reads a plurality of image data files stored in a recording medium, and the reading unit reads the image data file. A display for displaying an order screen including at least one image among a plurality of images related to the plurality of image data files that have been issued, and order information including the number of prints related to the image displayed on the display An image data storage means for storing each image data file related to one or a plurality of images to which order information is given, and order information stored so as to be stored in one or a plurality of data folders Order information storage means. Furthermore, the printing system according to the present invention may include at least one of the one or more images provided with the order information before the order for the one or more images provided with the order information is confirmed. The image data file relating to the image is stored in the image data storage means, and the order information relating to one or more image data files stored in the image data storage means is controlled to be stored in the order information storage means. For each data folder provided in the control means and the image data storage means, among the image data files included in the data folder, an image data file relating to an image to which order information with a print count of 1 or more is given Status information storage for storing status information regarding whether or not the used print processing has started And at least one of the order information stored in the order information storage means and the stored contents of the data folder is determined based on the status information stored in the status information storage means. Determination means.

  In the present invention, “order is confirmed” does not simply mean that the order screen is switched, but a final operation for the customer to order a photo print is performed. Suppose that In addition, “an image with order information” means an image to which order information with a print count of 1 or more is added, and an image with order information with a print count of 1 or more. In some cases, this means an image to which order information with the number of prints being 0 is given.

  According to this configuration, for each data folder provided in the image data storage means, it is possible to change at least one of the order information related to the image data file stored in the image data folder and the stored contents of the image data folder. It is possible to inform the operator who inputs the order information by the input unit.

  In the printing system of the present invention, when the printing process using the image data file relating to the image to which the order information including the number of prints included in the data folder is 1 or more is started, the status information storage unit It is preferable to further have status information changing means for changing the status information stored in. According to this configuration, the status information stored in the status information storage unit can be changed from printing not started to printing started.

  In the printing system of the present invention, when print information including one or a plurality of image data files related to the data folder and order information given to the image data file is updated by operating the input unit, If the status information of the data folder indicates that printing has not started, the printer further includes print information changing means for changing at least one of the order information stored in the order information storage means and the stored contents of the data folder. It may be.

  According to this configuration, when the status information of the data folder related to the print information that the operator who inputs the order information through the input unit desires to change indicates that printing has not started, the print information of the print to be created is displayed. Can be changed.

  In the printing system according to the present invention, the status information storage unit includes an image relating to an image to which order information is set for each data folder provided in the image data storage unit and the number of prints included in the data folder is 1 or more. Status information regarding whether or not printing processing using a data file has started and whether or not printing processing can be started when printing processing has not started is stored, and the determination unit stores the image data in the image data storage unit For each provided data folder, whether or not print processing using an image data file relating to an image to which order information that includes the number of prints included in the data folder is 1 or more is started, and print processing is started One or more related to the data folder in the case where When the determination unit determines whether or not the print information including the image data file and the order information added to the image data file has been updated by operating the input unit, and the determination unit determines that the print process has started The status information change unit changes the status information stored in the status information storage unit to the start of the print process, the print process has not started, and the print information is updated by operating the input unit. When the determination means determines that the status information has been changed, it is preferable that the status information change means changes the status information stored in the status information storage means so that print processing cannot be started.

  According to this configuration, it is possible to prevent the print processing of the image data file included in the data folder related to the print information desired to be changed by the operator who inputs the order information from the input unit from being started.

  In the printing system of the present invention, print information including one or a plurality of image data files related to the data folder and order information given to the image data file is increased and printed by operating the input unit. If the status information of the data folder indicates that printing has started when the image data file is updated or added to correct the print image, the image data storage means The image data file related to the print information updated by the operation may be stored in a new folder.

  According to this configuration, when an operator who inputs order information by the input unit desires to change the print information such as increasing the number of prints, adding an image data file to be printed, or correcting the print image Even if the status information of the data folder related to the print information indicates that printing has started, the order information is input by the input unit by creating a photo print related to the image data file stored in the new data folder Photo prints can be created with print information desired by the operator.

  The print system according to the present invention, when print information including one or a plurality of image data files related to the data folder and order information attached to the image data file is updated by operating the input unit, If the status information of the data folder indicates that printing has been started, it is preferable to further have a notifying means for notifying the operator of the input unit to that effect.

  If printing has already started, even if the operator who inputs order information through the input unit wishes to change the print information, such as reducing the number of prints or deleting the print image, the print information of the print to be created Cannot be changed. Further, when an operator who inputs order information using the input unit desires to change order information accompanied by image correction, the change cannot be reflected in the image data file that has been printed. According to this configuration, printing with the decrease in the number of prints, deletion of the print image, or correction of the image as described above is made by notifying the operator who inputs the order information through the input unit that printing has started. When changing the information, the operator who inputs the order information can be alerted by the input unit.

  In the printing system according to the present invention, the status information storage unit includes an image relating to an image to which order information is set for each data folder provided in the image data storage unit and the number of prints included in the data folder is 1 or more. Stores status information related to whether or not the printing process using the data file has started and whether or not the started printing process has ended, and each of the data folders provided in the image data storage unit stores the determination unit. Whether or not the print process using the image data file relating to the image to which the order information including the number of prints included in the data folder is 1 or more has been started, and whether or not the started print process has been completed And the determining means determines that the printing process has started or ended. In this case, the status information changing means preferably changes the status information stored in the status information storage unit.

  For example, an operator who inputs order information through the input unit desires to change the print information related to the data folder being printed so that the print number is reduced, the print image is deleted, or the image is corrected. In this case, the operator's desire to change cannot be reflected in the created photo print. Therefore, useless photo prints are created. According to this configuration, it is possible to know whether or not the data folder related to the print information that the operator who inputs order information wants to change is in the print process by the input unit. Therefore, an operator who inputs order information through the input unit changes the print information related to the data folder being printed so that the number of prints is reduced, the print image is deleted, or the image is corrected. If desired, the print process can be interrupted so that useless photo prints are not created. As a result, it is possible to reduce costs due to creating useless photo prints.

  In the printing system of the present invention, the folder name of each data folder provided in the image data storage unit may be changed according to the status information stored in the status information storage unit.

  In the printing system of the present invention, the status information storage unit may also serve as a storage unit for a folder name of each data folder provided in the image data storage unit.

  According to these configurations, the status information of the data folder can be easily confirmed from the folder name of the data folder.

  A preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a print system according to the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the print system 1 includes two print order receiving devices 101 that receive a photo print order from a customer, and a photo processing device 201 that creates a photo print. In the printing system 1 according to the present embodiment, two print order receiving apparatuses 101 are connected to an existing photo processing apparatus 201 in a DP store through a data transmission network 301 including an Ethernet (registered trademark) cable 310 and a hub 320. It was built by.

  In the print system 1, a customer stores a smart media, a compact flash (registered trademark), a memory stick (registered trademark), or a CD- that stores an image data file by an individual. When recording media such as R and MO (hereinafter collectively referred to as “media”) are set in the print order receiving apparatus 101, the print order receiving apparatus 101 reads out image data files from the set media and these images. The order information such as the data file and the print size, the number of prints, and the correction value (to be described in detail later) input by the customer with respect to these image data files is transmitted to the photo processing apparatus 201. An image data file received from the print order receiving apparatus 101, and To create a photographic print on the basis of the statement information.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the print order receiving apparatus 101 is disposed on a housing 110 that stores a controller 120 that controls the print order receiving apparatus 101, and an upper surface of the housing 110. Display 140 for displaying various information and notifying the operator (customer). A touch panel 141 for inputting order information and the like is formed on the surface of the display 140. In addition, a plurality of media drives 150 respectively corresponding to various media are provided on the front surface of the housing 110 (the surface on the left front side in FIG. 2). The media drive 150 reads the image data file recorded on the set media. Furthermore, a receipt printing printer 160 for printing a receipt is provided on the upper surface of the housing 110.

  Here, FIG. 3 shows a configuration of a main part of the controller 120. As shown in FIG. 3, a network interface 139 for connecting to the data transmission network 301 is connected to the controller 120. The controller 120 includes a number assigning unit 121, an image data storage unit 122, a display control unit 123, an order information storage unit 124, a customer information storage unit 125, an order information rewriting unit 126, a print information transmission unit 127, and a change permission unit 128. , An image retransmission permission unit 129, a notification determination unit 130, and an interruption information transmission unit 131.

  The number assigning unit 121 assigns a serial number including an order number and a branch number to a plurality of image data files read out by the media drive 150 and order information input by the customer to the image data files. . The order number is assigned the same reference number as the image data file related to the order information. Here, the order number is a number common to a plurality of image data files (a plurality of image data files recorded on a medium brought by the customer) that are collectively ordered by the customer. The branch number is a number common to a group of image data files related to a plurality of thumbnail images displayed simultaneously on an order screen 40 (see FIGS. 11 and 12) described later. Here, in the present embodiment, the number of thumbnail images that can be simultaneously displayed on the order screen 40 is eight frames. Therefore, a common branch number is assigned as one image data file group to the image data files corresponding to the images of eight frames. Note that the image data file group whose retransmission is permitted by the image retransmission permission unit 129, which will be described in detail later, is associated with a branch number that is different from the previously transmitted one.

  The image data storage unit 122 stores a plurality of image data files read by the media drive 150 and a serial number assigned to each image data file by the number assigning unit 121. Here, the directory structure of the image data storage unit 122 is shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 17, in this embodiment, 20 image data files Image001.jpg to Image020.jpg are read from the medium. The image data storage unit 122 divides the 20 image data files into three image data file groups, Image001.jpg to Image008.jpg, Image009.jpg to Image016.jpg, and Image017.jpg to Image020.jpg. Store in the data folder. The folder name of the data folder in which each image data file group is stored is a serial number assigned to the image data file by the number assigning unit 121. Here, as shown in FIG. 17, the order numbers of the image data files Image001.jpg to Image020.jpg are o0000001, and three image data file groups Image001.jpg to Image008.jpg, Image009.jpg to Image016.jpg, The branch numbers of Image017.jpg to Image020.jpg are 01, 02, and 03, respectively.

  The display control unit 123 displays an initial screen 10 (see FIG. 8), a media set guidance screen 20 (see FIG. 9), a print size selection screen 30 (see FIG. 10), an order screen 40 (see FIG. 10), which will be described in detail later. 11, 12), message 47 (see FIG. 13), name input screen 50 (see FIG. 14), order content confirmation screen 60 (see FIG. 15), and receipt certificate issuance screen 70 (see FIG. 16). To do. Further, the display control unit 123 displays the order screen 40 including the thumbnail images of eight frames on the order screen 40 among the plurality of images related to the plurality of image data files stored in the image data storage unit 122. The screen is switched to another order screen 40 including the image that has not been displayed.

  The order information storage unit 124 stores the order information for each image data file input by the customer using the touch panel 141 and the serial number assigned to the order information by the number assigning unit 121. The order information storage unit 124 includes a print size storage unit 124 a that stores the size of a photo print ordered by a customer, and the number of prints of a plurality of images related to a plurality of image data files stored in the image data storage unit 122. A print number storage unit 124b for storing, and a correction value storage unit 124c for storing correction values for each color and density of R (red), G (green), and B (blue) of each image data file are provided. . Note that, in the present embodiment, the print size storage unit 124a stores data so as to be printed in the L size by default. The print number storage unit 124b stores each image by default so that it is printed one by one. Further, in the correction value storage unit 124c, all correction values are stored as zero by default. The customer information storage unit 125 stores the name input by the customer on the name input screen 50 shown in FIG.

  The order information rewriting unit 126 includes a print size rewriting unit 126a, a print number rewriting unit 126b, and a correction value rewriting unit 126c. The print size rewriting unit 126a rewrites the print size stored in the print size storage unit 124a to the print size selected by the customer on the print size selection screen 30 shown in FIG. The print number rewriting unit 126b rewrites the print number of each image stored in the print number storage unit 124b with the print number input by the customer for each image on the order screen 40 shown in FIGS. The correction value rewriting unit 126c rewrites the correction value of each image data file stored in the correction value storage unit 124c with the correction value input by the customer for each image on the order screen 40 shown in FIGS. .

  The print information transmission unit 127 uses the touch panel 141 when an operation for switching the order screen 40 including the thumbnail images of eight frames to another order screen 40 including another thumbnail image is performed by the customer and When an operation for switching the screen 40 to the name input screen 50 is performed by the customer, the image data file group related to the thumbnail image displayed on the order screen 40 when the operation of the touch panel 141 is performed, The order information input by the customer for the thumbnail image and the serial number assigned to the image data file group (hereinafter collectively referred to as “print information”) are transmitted to the photo processing apparatus 201. Note that an image data file that does not require printing, that is, an image data file that is stored as zero sheets in the print number storage unit 124b is not transmitted to the photo processing apparatus 201.

  The change permission unit 128 is used when the print information related to the data folder storing the image data file group transmitted from the print order receiving apparatus 101 in the photo processing apparatus 201 is changed by the customer operating the order screen 40. If the status information of the data folder (described in detail later) indicates that printing has not started, transmission of a print information change signal to the photo processing apparatus 201 is permitted. The print information change signal in the present embodiment is the changed order information when the customer changes the order information by operating the order screen 40, and the customer displays the order screen. When a print image is added by operating 40, it is an added image data file. Further, both the changed order information and the added image data file may be used.

  The image re-transmission permission unit 129 prints the print information related to the data folder storing the image data file group transmitted from the print order receiving apparatus 101 in the photo processing apparatus 201 by operating the order screen 40 by the customer. If the status information of the data folder (to be described later in detail) indicates that printing has been started when the image data file to be printed is added or the correction value is increased or decreased. The transmission of the image data file group in which the print information is changed and the order information related to the image data file to the photo processing apparatus 201 is permitted.

  When the customer changes the print information related to the data folder storing the image data file group transmitted from the print order receiving apparatus 101 in the photo processing apparatus 201 in the photo processing apparatus 201 by operating the order screen 40. Then, it is determined whether or not the status information (to be described later in detail) of the data folder indicates that printing has been started. If the printing has been instructed, message 47 (notifying the customer) The display control unit 123 is instructed to display the display 140 on the display 140.

  The interruption information transmission unit 131 reduces the number of prints when the customer operates the order screen 40 with the print information related to the data folder storing the image data file group transmitted from the print order receiving apparatus 101 in the photo processing apparatus 201. If the status information of the data folder (to be described in detail later) indicates that printing is in progress when the print image is deleted or the correction value is increased or decreased, the operator of the photo processing apparatus 201 A text file (hereinafter, simply described as “interruption information”) in which a message (see FIG. 23) for prompting interruption of the print processing relating to the data folder is described is transmitted to the photo processing apparatus 201.

  Next, the schematic configuration of the photo processing apparatus 201 will be described with reference to FIG. As illustrated in FIG. 4, the photo processing apparatus 201 includes an interface unit 210, a film scanner 220, a controller 230, and a printer processor 250.

  In the interface unit 210, information is exchanged between the photo processing apparatus 201 and an operator who operates the photo processing apparatus 201. The interface unit 210 includes a display 211 that displays various information related to the photo processing apparatus 201 and notifies the operator, and an input device including a keyboard 212 and a mouse 213 that give instructions to the photo processing apparatus 201 by the operator. ing.

  The film scanner 220 includes a film carrier 221 that transports a photographic film at a constant speed in the sub-scanning direction (direction indicated by an arrow A in FIG. 4), a light source 222 that irradiates light to the photographic film transported by the film carrier 221; A CCD line sensor unit 226 for photoelectrically converting a frame image of the photographic film, and a processing circuit (not shown) for processing an output signal of the CCD line sensor unit 226 are arranged so as to receive light transmitted through the photographic film. have.

  The CCD line sensor unit 226 includes three lines of CCD line sensors in which about 5000 light receiving portions are arranged in the width direction of the photographic film. The light receiving surface of each CCD line sensor has red, green, and blue colors, respectively. A color filter is formed to detect the frame image of the photographic film by color separation. The processing circuit amplifies the output analog signal of the CCD line sensor unit 226 and then performs A / D conversion and outputs it. Therefore, in the film scanner 220, when a photographic film is set on the film carrier 221, frame images on the conveyed photographic film are sequentially read, and digital image data files for red, green, and blue are transferred to the controller 230. Sent.

  The controller 230 controls the photo processing apparatus 201. A network interface 249 for connecting to the data transmission network 301 is connected to the controller 230. Further, the controller 230 is connected to a CD-R drive 261 that reads / writes data from / to a CD-R (Compact Disc-Recordable: recordable CD that can be written only once).

  In the photo processing apparatus 201 of this embodiment, the CD-R drive 261 is connected, so that the image data file recorded on the media brought by the customer or the image data captured from the film scanner 220 is used. Although a service for writing a file to a CD-R can be provided, the description is omitted because it is not related to the present invention.

  Here, FIG. 5 shows a configuration of a main part of the controller 230. As shown in FIG. 5, the controller 230 includes a data preprocessing unit 231, an image data storage unit 232, an order information storage unit 233, a status information storage unit 234, a status information determination unit 235, a status information change unit 236, and status information transmission. A print information change unit 238, an interrupt information storage unit 239, an image processing unit 240, a conveyance control unit 241, a cutting control unit 242, and an exposure control unit 243.

  The data preprocessing unit 231 divides the print information received from the print order receiving apparatus 101 into an image data file and order information. Then, the image data file is transferred to the image data storage unit 232 together with the corresponding serial number. Further, the order information is transferred to the order information storage unit 233 together with the corresponding reference number.

  The image data storage unit 232 stores the image data file transferred from the data preprocessing unit 231 and the serial number. The order information storage unit 233 stores the order information and the reference number transferred from the data preprocessing unit 231.

  Here, FIG. 20 shows a directory structure of the image data storage unit 232 of the photo processing apparatus 201. As shown in FIG. 20, in this embodiment, two data folders (ST-1 and ST-2) in which the image data files transmitted from the two print order receiving apparatuses 101 are respectively stored are configured. . The structure in each data folder (ST-1, ST-2) is the same as the directory structure of the image data storage unit 122 of the print order receiving apparatus 101, and images related to a plurality of thumbnail images displayed simultaneously on the order screen 40. A data file group (image data file group transmitted collectively by the print information transmitting unit 127) is stored in one data folder.

  As shown in FIG. 22B, the image data file Image021.jpg permitted to be transmitted by the image retransmission permission unit 129 is stored in a new data folder o0000012-04.

  However, as shown in FIG. 20, the folder name of the data folder is status information “p”, “o”, “s”, or “e” stored in the status information storage unit 234 described in detail later. The reference number is assigned to the data folder by the number assigning unit 121. Therefore, the folder name of the data folder is changed according to the status information stored in the status information storage unit 234. Note that the status information relating to each data folder shown in FIG. 20 is “o”.

  For each data folder provided in the image data storage unit 232, the status information storage unit 234 determines whether or not print processing using an image data file included in the data folder has started, and if print processing has not started, It stores status information regarding whether or not it is possible to start and whether or not the printing process started when the printing process is started is completed. Specifically, “o” is stored when the print process has not started and the print process can be started, and “p” is stored when the print process cannot be started. Further, “s” is stored when the print process has been started and the print process has not been completed (that is, during the print process), and “e” is stored when the print process has been completed. The status information storage unit 234 stores “o” as the status information of each folder by default.

  The status information determination unit 235 transmits a change signal from the print order reception apparatus 101 as to whether or not print processing using the image data file included in the data folder has been started for each data folder provided in the image data storage unit 232. It is determined whether or not the started print processing is finished when the print processing is started.

  When the status information determination unit 235 determines that the change signal is transmitted from the print order receiving apparatus 101, the status information change unit 236 sets the status information stored in the status information storage unit 236 to “p”. change. If the status information determination unit 235 determines that the print process has been started and the print process is being performed, the status information stored in the status information storage unit 236 is changed to “s”, and the print is performed. If it is determined that the process has been completed, it is changed to “e”.

  The status information transmission unit 237 transmits status information about each data folder stored in the status information storage unit 234 to the print order receiving apparatus 101. In the present embodiment, the status information transmission unit 237 transmits the status information of the data folder when the status information change unit 236 changes the status information of each data folder stored in the status information storage unit 234. To do.

  The print information changing unit 238 receives at least the order information stored in the order information storage unit 233 and the stored contents of the data folder provided in the image data storage unit 232 based on the change signal transmitted from the print order receiving apparatus 101. Change either one. Specifically, when the order information changed by the customer is included in the change signal, the order information stored in the order information storage unit 233 is changed. When the change signal includes an image data file added by the customer, the image data file is added to the data folder provided in the image data storage unit 232.

  Here, the case where an image data file is added to the data folder o0000012-03 in which four image data files Image017.jpg to Image020.jpg are stored will be described with reference to FIG. First, the status information changing unit 236 changes the status information from not starting printing and starting printing processing to not starting printing and starting printing processing, and the folder name is “o000012-03” (FIG. 21A). To “p0000012-03” (FIG. 21B). After the image data file Image021.jpg is added, the status information is again changed by the status information changing unit 236 from not starting printing and starting printing processing to not starting printing and starting printing processing, and the folder name is changed. , “P000012-03” (FIG. 21B) is changed to “o0000012-03” (FIG. 21C).

  The interruption information storage unit 239 stores a text file in which a message for suspending the printing process transmitted from the print order receiving apparatus 101 is described. Note that, for example, a text file 0000012-03.txt in which a message that prompts the user to interrupt the printing process of the data folder s0000012-03 being printed is the same level as the data folder s0000012-03, as shown in FIG. Stored in

  The image processing unit 240 performs various types of image processing such as processing for converting the image data file stored in the image data storage unit 232 into an image size that matches the print size as necessary, and sharpening processing. Apply.

  The conveyance control unit 241 controls the operation of a conveyance roller pair 255 to be described later so that a photo print is created according to the order information stored in the order information storage unit 233. The cutting control unit 242 controls the operation of a cutter 256 described later so that a photo print is created according to the order information stored in the order information storage unit 233. The exposure control unit 243 controls an exposure unit 258 described later so that a latent image of an image related to the image data file subjected to image processing by the image processing unit 240 is formed on the photographic paper.

  The printer processor 250 performs a process for exposing the photographic paper based on the image processed image data file transmitted from the controller 230, and developing, bleaching, stabilizing, etc. the exposed photographic paper. A processor 252 to be processed and a finishing processing unit 253 for drying the photographic paper discharged from the processor 252 are provided.

  The printer 251 includes a paper magazine 254 that stores photographic paper, a plurality of conveyance roller pairs 255 that convey the photographic paper while being drawn out of the paper magazine 254, and a cutter that cuts the photographic paper conveyed by the conveyance roller pair 255 into a print size. 256 and an exposure unit 258 that performs an exposure process on the photographic paper cut by the cutter 256 and forms a latent image of an image corresponding to the image data file subjected to the image process by the image processing unit 240. ing. As the exposure unit 258, for example, an appropriate unit such as a laser exposure method, a PLZT method, or a CRT method can be adopted.

  The photographic paper on which the latent image is formed in the printer 251 is conveyed to the finishing processing unit 253 via the processor 252 and discharged as a finished photographic print.

  Note that the photo processing apparatus 201 according to the present embodiment can perform in parallel the print processing of image data files respectively transmitted from the two print order receiving apparatuses 101 connected by the data transmission network 301. Further, in addition to the print processing of the image data files transmitted from the two print order receiving apparatuses 101, the print processing of the image data files transmitted from the film scanner 220 can be performed in parallel.

  Here, a procedure for creating a photo print in the print system 1 of the present embodiment will be described. First, a processing procedure in the print order receiving apparatus 101 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a procedure for receiving a photographic print order in the print order receiving apparatus 101. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a procedure of interrupt processing performed in the flowchart shown in FIG.

  First, the display controller 123 displays the initial screen 10 as shown in FIG. 8 on the display 140 (step S101). As shown in FIG. 8, the initial screen 10 displays a message that prompts a customer who wants to order a photo print to touch the screen of the display 140 that is the touch panel 141. And it is judged whether the customer touched the screen of the display 140 (step S102).

  If it is determined that the customer has not touched the screen of the display 140 (step S102: NO), the determination in step S102 is repeated until it is determined that the customer has touched the screen of the display 140. On the other hand, when it is determined that the customer touches the screen of the display 140 (step S102: YES), the display control unit 123 displays the media set guidance screen 20 as shown in FIG. Step S103). As shown in FIG. 9, a message prompting the customer to set the brought media in the media drive 150 and press the OK button 21 displayed on the lower right of the screen is displayed on the media set guidance screen 20. Is done.

  Thereafter, interrupt processing, which will be described in detail later, is started (step S104). Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the OK button 21 on the media set guidance screen 20 has been operated (step S105). If it is determined that the OK button 21 has not been operated (step S105: NO), the determination in step S105 is repeated until it is determined that the OK button 21 has been operated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the OK button 21 has been operated (step S105: YES), the image data file recorded on the set medium is read by the media drive 150 (step S106). Further, the number assigning unit 121 assigns a reference number to each of the plurality of image data files read from the medium (step S107).

  Next, the display control unit 123 displays the print size selection screen 30 as shown in FIG. 10 on the display 140 (step S108). As shown in FIG. 10, the print size selection screen 30 displays the size, unit price, and basic charge of the three print sizes of L, 2L, and six. In addition, an L version selection button 31, an L version selection button 32, and a six-cut selection button 33 are displayed.

  Subsequently, one of the L plate selection button 31, the 2 L plate selection button 32, and the six-cut selection button 33 is operated to determine whether or not a print size has been selected (step S 109). If it is determined that the print size has not been selected (step S109: NO), the determination in step S109 is repeated until it is determined that the print size has been selected. On the other hand, if it is determined that the print size has been selected (step S109: YES), the print size rewriting unit 126a rewrites the print size stored in the print size storage unit 124a to the selected print size ( Step S110).

  Thereafter, a plurality of image data files read from the medium are stored in the image data storage unit 122 (step S111). At this time, each image data file is stored in a data folder having a folder name corresponding to the serial number assigned by the number assigning unit 121.

  Next, the display control unit 123 displays the order screen 40 as shown in FIG. 11 on the display 140 (step S112). As shown in FIG. 11, the order screen 40 displays thumbnail images of eight frames and the number of prints of each thumbnail image. In addition, an increase button 41 for increasing the number of prints of each thumbnail image and a decrease button 42 for decreasing the number are displayed. Further, in the upper right of the order screen 40, an increase button 43a, 43b, 43c, 43d and a decrease button for increasing the correction values of the R, G, and B colors and densities for the image data file related to each thumbnail image, respectively. Decrease buttons 44a, 44b, 44c, and 44d to be displayed are displayed. When inputting a correction value, first, a portion of the touch panel 141 on which a thumbnail image for inputting the correction value is displayed is touched. At this time, the touched image is in a selected state like a thumbnail image at the upper left of the order screen 40 in FIG. In this state, the correction value can be input by operating the increase buttons 43a to 43d or the decrease buttons 44a to 44d. In addition, a switching button 45 for switching the order screen 40 to another order screen 40 including a thumbnail image not yet displayed on the display 140 is displayed at the lower right of the order screen 40.

  In the case where the number of thumbnail images not yet displayed on the display 140 among the plurality of thumbnail images related to the plurality of image data files read and read from the medium and stored in the image data storage unit 122 is eight frames or less. Displays an order screen 40 of the final page as shown in FIG. As in the order screen 40 (not the final page) shown in FIG. 11, the last page of the order screen 40 includes thumbnail images (8 frames or less), the number of prints of each thumbnail image, and an increase button 41 for increasing / decreasing the number of prints. And a decrease button 42, and increase buttons 43a to 43d and decrease buttons 44a to 44d for increasing and decreasing the correction value are displayed. Further, an OK button 46 is displayed at the lower right of the order screen 40 on the final page as shown in FIG.

  Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the increase button 41 or the decrease button 42 has been operated to input the number of prints (step S113). If it is determined that the number of prints has not been input (step S113: NO), step S114 described later is omitted and the process proceeds to step S115. On the other hand, when it is determined that the number of prints has been input (step S113: YES), the number of prints stored in the print number storage unit 124b is changed to the input number of prints by the print number rewriting unit 126b. (Step S114).

  Further, it is determined whether or not a correction value has been input by operating the increase buttons 43a to 43d or the decrease buttons 44a to 44d (step S115). If it is determined that the correction value has not been input (step S115: NO), step S116 described later is omitted, and the process proceeds to step S117. On the other hand, when it is determined that the correction value has been input (step S115: YES), the correction value rewriting unit 126c changes the correction value stored in the correction value storage unit 124c to the input correction value. (Step S116).

  Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the switching button 45 (or the OK button 46) has been pressed (step S117). If it is determined that the switch button 45 (or OK button 46) has not been pressed (step S117: NO), the process returns to step S113, and it is determined again whether the number of prints has been input. On the other hand, if it is determined that the switch button 45 (or the OK button 46) has been pressed (step S117: YES), print information corresponding to the thumbnail image displayed on the order screen 40 is transmitted to the photo processing apparatus 201. It is determined whether or not it has been completed (step S118).

  If it is determined that it has not been transmitted to the photo processing apparatus 201 (step S118: NO), the eight frames included in the order screen 40 displayed when the switching button 45 (or OK button 46) is pressed. The print order information corresponding to the thumbnail image is immediately transmitted to the photo processing apparatus 201 by the print information transmitting unit 127 (step S119). Then, it progresses to step S130 mentioned later.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the information has been transmitted to the photo processing apparatus 201 (step S118: YES), is the order information stored in the order information storage unit 124 changed from the order information that was previously transmitted? It is determined whether or not (step S120). If it is determined that the order information has not changed from the previous transmission (step S120: NO), the process proceeds to step S130 described later. If it is determined that the order information has been changed from the previous transmission (step S120: YES), the thumbnail displayed on the order screen 40 based on the status information transmitted from the photo processing apparatus 201. The notification determining unit 130 determines whether the print processing of the image data file relating to the image has been started (step S121).

  If it is determined that the print processing has not been started (step S121: NO), the change permission unit 128 permits the print information change signal to be transmitted to the photo processing apparatus 201, and the change signal is transmitted ( Step S122). Then, it progresses to step S130 mentioned later. On the other hand, when it is determined that the printing process has been started (step S121: YES), the display control unit 123 displays the customer as shown in FIG. Then, a message 47, an OK button 48, and a cancel button 49 for informing that the printing process has been started are displayed (step S123).

  Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the cancel button 49 has been operated (step S124). If it is determined that the cancel button 49 has been operated (step S124: YES), the process proceeds to step S130 described later. If it is determined that the cancel button 49 has not been operated (step S124: NO), it is determined whether or not the OK button 48 has been operated (step S125). If it is determined that the OK button 48 has not been operated (step S125: NO), the process returns to step S124 to determine whether or not the cancel button 49 has been operated again. On the other hand, if it is determined that the OK button 48 has been operated (step S125: YES), the image data relating to the thumbnail image displayed on the order screen 40 based on the status information transmitted from the photo processing apparatus 201. It is determined whether or not the file printing process has been completed (step S126).

  If it is determined that the print process has been completed (step S126: YES), steps S127 and S128 described later are omitted, and the process proceeds to step S129. If it is determined that the print process has not been completed (step S126: NO), order information including a decrease in the number of prints, deletion of a print image, or change of a correction value in steps S113 and S115. It is determined whether or not the change has been made (step S127). If it is determined that the order information has not been changed, including the reduction of the number of prints, the deletion of the print image, or the change of the correction value, step S128 described later is skipped and the process proceeds to step S129. On the other hand, if it is determined that the order information has been changed, including a decrease in the number of prints, a deletion of the print image, or a correction value change (step S127: YES), the interruption information transmission unit 131 causes the photograph to be changed. Print processing interruption information related to the data folder corresponding to the order information is transmitted to the photo processing apparatus 201 to the operator of the processing apparatus 201 (step S128).

  Subsequently, in steps S113 and S115, it is determined whether or not the order information has been changed including an increase in the number of prints, an addition of an image data file to be printed, or a correction value change (step S129). . If it is determined that the order information has not been changed, including an increase in the number of prints, an addition of an image data file to be printed, or a change in correction value (step S129: NO), step S130 to be described later. Proceed to If it is determined that the order information has been changed including an increase in the number of prints, addition of an image data file to be printed, or a change in correction value (step S129: YES), the above-described step S119 is performed. Then, the print information transmission unit 127 transmits the print information related to the changed order information to the photo processing apparatus 201.

  Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the order screen 40 displayed on the display 140 is the last page (step S130). If it is determined that the order screen 40 is not the last page (step S130: NO), the order screen 40 is still out of the plurality of thumbnail images related to the plurality of image data files stored in the image data storage unit 122. The screen is switched to another order screen 40 including a thumbnail image not displayed on the display 140 (step S131). Then, the process returns to step S113 described above, and it is determined again whether the number of prints has been input.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the order screen 40 is the last page (step S130: YES), the display control unit 123 displays a name input screen 50 as shown in FIG. S132). As shown in FIG. 14, the name input screen 50 displays an input key 51 for inputting a name and a display unit 52 for displaying the name input from the input key 51. An OK button 53 is displayed at the lower right of the name input screen 50.

  Then, it is determined whether or not the customer inputs a name using the input key 51 and presses the OK button 53 (step S133). If it is determined that the OK button 53 has not been pressed (step S133: NO), the determination in step S133 is repeated until it is determined that the OK button 53 has been pressed. On the other hand, when it is determined that the OK button 53 has been pressed (step S133: YES), the name input on the name input screen 50 is stored in the customer information storage unit 125 (step S134).

  Subsequently, the display control unit 123 displays the order content confirmation screen 60 as shown in FIG. 15 on the display 140 (step S135). As shown in FIG. 15, the order details confirmation screen 60 displays the name of the customer, the order number and branch number associated with the image data file for which the customer ordered the print, the print size, the number of prints, the charge, and the like. . In addition, an OK button 61 is displayed at the lower right of the order content confirmation screen 60.

  Here, it is determined whether or not the customer confirms the content displayed on the order content confirmation screen 60 and presses the OK button 61 (step S136). If it is determined that the OK button 61 has not been pressed (step S136: NO), the determination in step S136 is repeated until it is determined that the OK button 61 has been pressed. On the other hand, if it is determined that the OK button 61 has been pressed (step S136: YES), the display controller 123 displays a receipt issuance screen 70 as shown in FIG. 16 on the display 140 (step S137). ). On the receipt certificate issuance screen 70, as shown in FIG. 16, a message prompting the customer to remove the media from the media drive 150 and a message notifying that a receipt has been issued are displayed. Subsequently, a receipt is issued by the receipt printing printer 160 (step S138).

  Next, the interrupt processing procedure started in step S104 of the flowchart of FIG. 6 will be described with reference to FIG. The interruption processing performed here is the media set guidance screen 20, the print size selection screen 30, the order screen 40, the name input screen 50, and the order details confirmation screen 60 shown in FIG. 9 to FIG. 12, FIG. This is processing related to the operation of the return button 91 displayed at the lower right and the stop button 92 displayed at the lower left, respectively, and is performed in parallel with the processing of steps S105 to S136 in the flowchart of FIG.

  First, it is determined whether or not the return button 91 has been operated (step S201). If it is determined that the return button 91 has been operated (step S201: YES), the display control unit 123 switches the screen displayed on the display 140 to the screen displayed immediately before (step S202). Specifically, for example, when the return button 91 on the order screen 40 of the first page is operated, the screen is switched to the print size selection screen 30. Further, for example, when the return button 91 of the order screen 40 that is not the first page is operated, the order screen 40 displayed immediately before is switched.

  Then, it is determined whether or not the screen switched in step S202 is the initial screen 10 (step S203). If it is determined that the screen is the initial screen 10 (step S203: YES), the interrupt process ends. If it is determined that the screen is not the initial screen 10 (step S203: NO), the process returns to the above-described step S201, and it is determined whether or not the operation of the return button 91 has been performed again.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the return button 91 has not been operated (step S201: NO), it is determined whether or not the stop button 92 has been operated (step S204). When it is determined that the cancel button 92 has been operated (step S204: YES), the display control unit 123 switches the screen displayed on the display 140 to the initial screen 10 (step S205). When it is determined that the cancel button 92 has not been operated (step S204: NO), the process returns to step S201, and the determination as to whether the return button 91 has been operated again is repeated.

  Thus, the interruption process is performed until the media set guide screen 20, the print size selection screen 30, the order screen 40, the name input screen 50, or the order content confirmation screen 60 is not displayed on the display 140.

  Next, a processing procedure in the photo processing apparatus 201 will be described with reference to FIGS. 18 and 19. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a procedure for creating a photographic print in the photographic processing apparatus 201, more specifically, a procedure for creating a photographic print relating to a group of image data files transmitted from the print order receiving apparatus 101 in a batch. FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the procedure of interrupt processing performed in the flowchart shown in FIG.

  First, print information is received from the print order receiving apparatus 101 (step S301). Next, the print information is divided into an image data file group and order information by the data preprocessing unit 231 (step S302). The image data file is transferred / stored together with the reference number to the image data storage unit 232, and the order information is transferred / stored together with the reference number to the order information storage unit 233 (step S303). At this time, the image data file group collectively transmitted from the print order receiving apparatus 101 is stored in one data folder.

  Here, an interrupt process, which will be described in detail later, is started (step S304). Subsequently, the image processing unit 240 performs various types of image processing on the image data file stored in the image data storage unit 232 (step S305).

  Thereafter, the conveyance of the photographic paper is started by the plurality of conveyance roller pairs 255. (Step S306). The status information of the data folder in which the image data file group is stored in step S303 stored in the status information storage unit 234 is “o” indicating that the print processing has not started and the print processing can be started by the status information change unit 236. ”Is changed to“ s ”which means that the print process has started and the print process has not been completed, and is transmitted to the print order receiving apparatus 101 by the status information transmission unit 237 (step S307).

  Next, the photographic paper is cut by the cutter 256 into a print size included in the order information stored in the order information storage unit 233 (step S308). Further, exposure processing is performed by the exposure unit 258, and a latent image of an image related to the image data file that has been subjected to image processing is formed (step S309). In step S309, after the image exposure processing for all the image data files is completed, the status information of the data folder in which the image data file group is stored in step S303 stored in the status information storage unit 234 is displayed as status. The information changing unit 236 changes the print process from “s”, which means the print process has started and the print process has not been finished, to “e”, which means the print process has been completed. (Step S310).

  Subsequently, the photographic paper on which the latent image is formed is sent from the printer 251 to the processor 252 and subjected to processing such as development, bleaching, and stabilization (step S311). Thereafter, the photographic paper on which the image has been made visible is sent from the processor 252 to the finishing processing unit 253 and subjected to a drying process (step S312). Then, the photographic paper is discharged from the photo processing apparatus 201 as a photo print (step S313).

  Next, the interrupt processing procedure started in step S304 in the flowchart of FIG. 18 will be described with reference to FIG. The interruption processing performed here is processing performed by the photo processing apparatus 201 when the print information is changed by the customer and a print information change signal or print processing interruption information is transmitted from the print order receiving apparatus 101. is there.

  First, the status information determination unit 235 determines whether or not a print information change signal transmitted from the print order receiving apparatus 101 has been received (step S401). If it is determined that the change signal has not been received (step S401: NO), steps S402 to S404 described later are omitted, and the process proceeds to step S405. On the other hand, when it is determined that the change signal has been received (step S401: YES), the status information of the data folder storing the image data file group stored in the status information storage unit 234 in step S303 of FIG. The status information changing unit 236 changes the print process from “o” indicating that the print process has not started and the print process can be started to “p” indicating that the print process cannot be started, and the status information transmitting unit 237 performs the print order. It is transmitted to the accepting device 101 (step S402).

  After that, the print information changing unit 238 changes the order information stored in the order information storage unit 233 and / or the data folder stored in the image data storage unit 232 based on the received print information change signal. (Step S403). Subsequently, the status information of the data folder storing the image data file group stored in the status information storage unit 234 in step S303 of FIG. The meaning “p” is changed to “o” meaning that the print processing can be started, and the status information sending unit 237 sends the print order to the print order receiving apparatus 101 (step S404).

  Next, it is determined whether or not a text file containing a message for suspending the printing process transmitted from the print order receiving apparatus 101 has been received (step S405). If it is determined that the text file has not been received (step S405: NO), the process returns to the above-described step S401, and the determination as to whether or not the change signal has been received is repeated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the text file has been received (step S405: YES), the received text file is stored in the interruption information storage unit 239. At this time, when the operator of the photo processing apparatus 201 opens the text file stored in the interruption information storage unit 239, a message as shown in FIG.

  As described above, in the print system 1 according to the present embodiment, the status information determination unit 235 is provided in the image data storage unit 232 of the photo processing apparatus 201 based on the status information stored in the status information storage unit 234. It is determined whether or not the printing process using the image data file included in the data folder is started. Accordingly, the print information related to the image data file to which the order information indicating the number of prints is 1 or more is transmitted from the print order receiving apparatus 101 to the photo processing apparatus 201, and the image data file included in the print information is also transmitted. After the order information stored in the image data storage unit 232 and included in the print information is stored in the order information storage unit 233, the print information is determined according to the status information of the data folder in which the image data file included in the print information is stored. It is possible to notify the customer who is operating the print order receiving apparatus 101 whether or not the information can be changed.

  In the print system 1 according to the present embodiment, when the status information changing unit 236 determines that the print processing using the image data file stored in the data folder is started by the status information determining unit 235, the status information changing unit 236 The status information related to the data folder stored in the information storage unit 234 is changed. Therefore, the status information stored in the status information storage unit 234 can be changed from printing not started to printing started.

  The print system 1 according to the present embodiment allows the change permission unit 128 of the print order receiving apparatus 101 to change the print information related to the data folder including the image data file that has been transmitted to the photo processing apparatus 201 by the customer. If the status information transmitted from the photo processing device 201 in the data folder indicates that the print processing has not started, transmission of a print information change signal to the photo processing device 201 is permitted. Then, the print information change unit 238 receives the order information stored in the order information storage unit 233 and the data folder provided in the image data storage unit 232 based on the print information change signal transmitted from the print order receiving apparatus 101. Change at least one of the stored contents. Therefore, if the status information of the data folder including the transmitted image data file related to the print information that the operator of the print order receiving apparatus 101 desires to change indicates that printing has not started, the photo processing apparatus 201 The print information of the print to be created can be changed.

  Furthermore, in the print system 1 according to the present embodiment, the status information determination unit 235 determines whether or not the print processing using the image data file included in the data folder has started, and changes the print information from the print order reception apparatus 101. It is determined whether a signal has been transmitted. When the status information determination unit 235 determines that the print process has been started, the status information change unit 236 changes the status information stored in the status information storage unit 234 to have already started the print process. When the status information determination unit 235 determines that a print information change signal has been transmitted from the print order receiving apparatus 101, the status information change unit 236 prints the status information stored in the status information storage unit 234. Change to not start processing. Therefore, the print processing of the image data file included in the data folder related to the print information that the operator of the print order receiving apparatus 101 desires to change can be prevented from starting.

  In addition, in the print system 1 according to the present embodiment, the image re-transmission permission unit 129 determines that the print information related to the data folder storing the image data file group transmitted from the print order receiving apparatus 101 is the number of prints by the customer. If the status information of the data folder indicates that printing has started when the image data file to be printed is added or the correction value is increased or decreased, the print information is changed. The transmission of the order information related to the data file group and the image data file to the photo processing apparatus 201 is permitted. Then, the image data storage unit 232 of the photo processing apparatus 201 stores the image data file transmitted from the print order receiving apparatus 101 in a new folder. Therefore, when the customer desires to change the print information with an increase in the number of prints, addition of an image data file to be printed, or increase / decrease of the correction value, the transmitted image data file related to the print information is not stored. Create a photo print with the print information desired by the customer by creating a photo print for the image data file stored in the new folder even if the status information of the included data folder indicates that printing has started. Can do.

  Further, in the print system 1 according to the present embodiment, the notification determination unit 130, when the print information related to the data folder storing the image data file group transmitted from the print order receiving apparatus 101 is changed by the customer, If the status information of the data folder indicates that printing has been started, the display control unit 123 is instructed to display a message notifying the customer on the display 140. Accordingly, since the print processing has already been started, it is possible to call attention that the change of print information desired by the customer may not be reflected.

  Furthermore, in the print system 1 according to the present embodiment, the status information determination unit 235 determines whether or not the print process using the image data file included in the data folder has started, and whether or not the started print process has ended. When the status information determination unit 235 determines that the print processing has been started or ended, the status information change unit 236 stores the status information stored in the status information storage unit 234. To change. Then, the print information related to the data folder in which the interruption information transmission unit 131 stores the image data file group transmitted from the print order receiving apparatus 101 causes the customer to reduce the number of prints, delete the print image, or increase / decrease the correction value. If the status information of the data folder indicates that printing is in progress, the interruption information is transmitted to the photo processing apparatus 201. Therefore, when the status information of the data folder including the transmitted image data file related to the print information that the customer desires to change indicates that printing has started and printing has not been completed, the operator transmits from the print order receiving apparatus 101. The printing process can be interrupted based on the information. Thereby, for example, when the customer desires to reduce the number of prints, the print processing in the photo processing apparatus 201 can be interrupted. As a result, it is possible to reduce costs due to creating useless photo prints.

  In the printing system 1 of the present embodiment, the folder name of the data folder provided in the image data storage unit 232 of the photo processing apparatus 201 is changed according to the status information stored in the status information storage unit 234. . Therefore, the status information of the data folder can be easily confirmed from the folder name of the data folder.

  The preferred embodiment of the present invention has been described above. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various design changes can be made as long as they are described in the claims. Is something. For example, in the above-described embodiment, when the print information related to the data folder including the image data file that has already been transmitted to the photo processing apparatus 201 is changed by the customer, the change permission unit 128 changes from the photo processing apparatus 201 of the data folder. If the transmitted status information indicates that print processing has not started, transmission of a print information change signal to the photo processing apparatus 201 is permitted, and the print information changing unit 238 transmits the print order from the print order receiving apparatus 101. The case has been described in which at least one of the order information stored in the order information storage unit 233 and the stored contents of the data folder provided in the image data storage unit 232 is changed based on the print information change signal. This is not a limitation. The change permission unit 128 and the print information change unit 238 may be omitted.

  In the above-described embodiment, the status information determination unit 235 determines whether the print process using the image data file included in the data folder has started, whether the started print process has ended, and the print It is determined whether or not a print information change signal is transmitted from the order receiving apparatus 101. When the status information determining unit 235 determines that the status information changing unit 236 has started the printing process, the status information storing unit 234 changes the status information stored in the status information storage unit 234 to the start of the printing process and the printing process. If the status information determination unit 235 determines that the print information has been completed, the status information stored in the status information storage unit 234 is changed to the print process completed, and a print information change signal is transmitted from the print order receiving apparatus 101. In the case where the status information determination unit 235 determines that the status information stored in the status information storage unit 234 is changed so that the print process cannot be started, the present invention is not limited to this. Only determine whether processing has started and Scan information changing unit 236, may be configured to change the status information stored in the status information storage unit 234 only when it is determined that print processing is started. Further, the status information changing unit 236 may be omitted.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the image re-transmission permission unit 129 prints the print information related to the data folder storing the image data file group transmitted from the print order receiving apparatus 101 by the customer by increasing the number of prints. If the status information of the data folder indicates that printing has started when the image data file is added or the correction value is increased or decreased, the image data file group in which the print information is changed and Although the case where transmission of order information related to the image data file is permitted to the photo processing apparatus 201 has been described, the image re-transmission permission unit 129 may be omitted.

  Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, when the print information related to the data folder storing the image data file group transmitted from the print order receiving apparatus 101 is changed by the customer, the notification determination unit 130 changes the status of the data folder. In the case where the information indicates that printing has been started, a case has been described in which the display control unit 123 is instructed to display a message 47 on the display 140 informing the customer of that fact. I can't. For example, it may be notified by voice that printing has started. Further, the notification determination unit 130 may be omitted.

  In addition, in the above-described embodiment, the print information related to the data folder storing the image data file group transmitted from the print order receiving apparatus 101 indicates that the number of prints is reduced, the print image is deleted, or the correction value is increased or decreased by the customer. In the case where the status information of the data folder indicates that printing is in progress, the interruption information transmission unit 131 transmits the interruption information to the photo processing apparatus 201. The interruption information transmission unit 131 may not be provided.

  In the above-described embodiment, the case where the folder name of the data folder provided in the image data storage unit 232 of the photo processing apparatus 201 is changed according to the status information stored in the status information storage unit 234 will be described. However, it is not limited to this. For example, the status information storage unit 234 may not be provided, and the folder name of each data folder provided in the image data storage unit 232 may simply reflect the status information. In this case, the image data storage unit 232 stores status information.

  Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, when the customer performs an operation for switching the order screen 40 to another order screen 40, the print information transmission unit 127 displays on the display 140 when the operation is performed. The description has been given of the case where the print information related to the thumbnail image to which the order information having the number of prints of 1 or more among the eight frames of thumbnail images included in the order screen 40 has been transmitted is transmitted to the photo processing apparatus 201. This is not a limitation. The print information transmission unit 127 photographs the print information related to at least one thumbnail image to which order information indicating that the number of prints is 1 or more is given before the order is confirmed by pressing the OK button 61 on the confirmation screen 60. What is necessary is just to transmit to the processing apparatus 201.

  In addition, in the above-described embodiment, the case where the print information transmission unit 127 transmits the print information related to the thumbnail image to which the order information with the number of prints of 1 or more is transmitted to the photo processing apparatus 201 has been described. Not limited to this, the print information transmission unit 127 includes an image data file related to a thumbnail image to which order information with a print count of 0 is added in addition to a thumbnail image with order information to have a print count of 1 or more. May be transmitted to the photo processing apparatus 201. In this case, in the data folder provided in the image data storage unit 232, in addition to the thumbnail image to which the order information for the number of prints of 1 or more is added, the thumbnail image to which the order information for the number of prints of 0 is added. Such an image data file is stored.

  In the above-described embodiment, the touch panel 141 is formed on the surface of the display 140. When the customer touches the touch panel 141, the order information is input to the print order receiving apparatus 101 and displayed on the display 140. The operation for switching the order screen 40 to another order screen 40 has been described. However, the operation method for inputting the order information to the print order receiving apparatus 101 and switching the order screen 40 is not limited thereto. I can't. For example, an order information input to the print order receiving apparatus 101 and an operation for switching the order screen 40 may be performed using a keyboard or a mouse.

  In the above-described embodiment, the image data file group (image data file group transmitted collectively by the print information transmitting unit 127) related to a plurality of thumbnail images displayed simultaneously on the order screen 40 is stored in one data folder. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, one image data file may be stored in one data folder.

  Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the case where the printer processor 250 of the photographic processing apparatus 201 forms an image through processing such as exposure, development, bleaching, stabilization, and drying to create a photographic print has been described. The method of forming an image is not limited to this. For example, an image may be formed by an ink jet printer.

  In the above-described embodiment, the print order receiving apparatus 101 connected to the photo processing apparatus 201 via the data transmission network 301 and constructing the print system 1 together with the photo processing apparatus 201 has been described. May be a stand-alone type with a built-in printer.

1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a printing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows schematic structure of the print order reception apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a main part of the controller illustrated in FIG. 2. It is a figure which shows schematic structure of the photographic processing apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a main part of the controller illustrated in FIG. 4. FIG. 3 is a flowchart (first half) showing a procedure for receiving a photographic print order in the print order receiving apparatus shown in FIG. 2. FIG. FIG. 3 is a flowchart (second half) showing a procedure for receiving a photographic print order in the print order receiving apparatus shown in FIG. 2. FIG. FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing a procedure for receiving a photographic print order in the print order receiving apparatus shown in FIG. 2, in particular, a procedure when print information is changed by a customer. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the interruption process performed in the flowchart shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the initial screen displayed on the display shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the media set guidance screen displayed on the display shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a print size selection screen displayed on the display shown in FIG. 2. It is a figure which shows the order screen displayed on the display shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the order screen (final page) displayed on the display shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the message which alert | reports to a customer that the printing process of the image data file which concerns on the thumbnail image contained in the order screen shown in FIG. 11 has started. It is a figure which shows the name input screen displayed on the display shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the order content confirmation screen displayed on the display shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the receipt certificate issuing screen displayed on the display shown in FIG. It is explanatory drawing which shows the directory structure of the image data memory | storage part shown in FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a procedure for creating a photo print in the photo processing apparatus shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the interruption process performed in the flowchart shown in FIG. It is explanatory drawing which shows the directory structure of the image data memory | storage part shown in FIG. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram when an image data file is added to a data folder provided in the image data storage unit shown in FIG. 5. It is explanatory drawing when a new folder is provided in the directory structure shown in FIG. 20, and a text file is added. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a message prompting to interrupt print processing displayed on the display shown in FIG. 4.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Print system 40 Order screen 101 Print order reception apparatus 123 Display control part (notification means)
127 Print information transmission unit (control means)
130 Notification determination unit (notification means)
140 Display (notification means)
141 Touch panel (input unit)
150 Media drive (reading unit)
201 Photo Processing Device 232 Image Data Storage Unit (Image Data Storage Unit)
233 Order information storage unit (order information storage means)
234 Status information storage unit (status information storage means)
235 Status information determination unit (determination unit)
236 Status information change unit (status information change means)
238 Print information change unit (print information change means)

Claims (9)

A printing system that accepts photo print orders and creates photo prints,
A reading unit for reading a plurality of image data files stored in the recording medium;
A display for displaying an order screen including at least one of a plurality of images related to the plurality of image data files read by the reading unit;
An input unit for inputting order information including the number of prints related to the image displayed on the display;
Image data storage means for storing each image data file related to one or a plurality of images to which order information has been given so as to be stored in one or a plurality of data folders;
Order information storage means for storing order information;
An image data file related to at least one of the one or more images to which order information is given before the order for the one or more images to which order information is given is confirmed. Control means for storing the data in the data storage means and controlling the order information storage means to store the order information related to the one or more image data files stored in the image data storage means;
For each data folder provided in the image data storage means, among the image data files included in the data folder, print processing using an image data file relating to an image to which order information with a print count of 1 or more is given Status information storage means for storing status information regarding whether or not
Determination means for determining whether at least one of the order information stored in the order information storage means and the stored contents of the data folder can be changed based on the status information stored in the status information storage means; A printing system characterized by comprising:   Status information stored in the status information storage means when a print process using an image data file relating to an image to which order information with the number of prints included in the data folder being 1 or more is added is started The print system according to claim 1, further comprising status information changing means for changing the status.   When print information including one or a plurality of image data files related to the data folder and order information added to the image data file is updated by operating the input unit, status information of the data folder is not printed. If it is instructed to start, it further comprises print information changing means for changing at least one of the order information stored in the order information storage means and the stored contents of the data folder. The printing system according to claim 1 or 2. Print processing using an image data file relating to an image to which the status information storage means is assigned order information for each data folder provided in the image data storage means and the number of prints included in the data folder is 1 or more Status information regarding whether or not printing has started, and whether or not printing processing can be started when printing processing has not started,
For each data folder provided in the image data storage means, the determination means starts a print process using an image data file relating to an image to which order information including one or more prints contained in the data folder is assigned. The input unit is operated with print information including one or a plurality of image data files related to the data folder and order information given to the image data file when the print processing is not started. To determine whether it has been updated,
When the determination unit determines that the print process has started, the status information change unit changes the status information stored in the status information storage unit to the start of the print process, the print process has not started, and the When the determination means determines that the print information has been updated by operating the input unit, the status information change means changes the status information stored in the status information storage means to be unable to start print processing. The print processing system according to claim 2, wherein the print processing system is a print processing system.   Print information including one or a plurality of image data files related to the data folder and order information added to the image data file increases the number of prints by operating the input unit, adds an image data file to be printed, or If the status information of the data folder indicates that printing has been started when the print image is updated to be corrected, the image data storage unit is updated by operating the input unit. 5. The print system according to claim 1, wherein the image data file relating to the print information is stored in a new folder.   When print information including one or a plurality of image data files related to the data folder and order information added to the image data file is updated by operating the input unit, the status information of the data folder starts printing. The print system according to claim 1, further comprising notification means for notifying an operator of the input unit of the fact that the completion is instructed. . Print processing using an image data file relating to an image to which the status information storage means is assigned order information for each data folder provided in the image data storage means and the number of prints included in the data folder is 1 or more Status information regarding whether or not printing has been started and whether or not the started printing process has been completed,
For each data folder provided in the image data storage means, the determination means starts a print process using an image data file relating to an image to which order information including one or more prints contained in the data folder is assigned. And whether or not the started print processing is finished,
2. The status information change unit changes status information stored in the status information storage unit when the determination unit determines that a print process has started or ended. 7. The printing system according to any one of items 6.   8. The folder name of each data folder provided in the image data storage unit is changed according to status information stored in the status information storage unit. Printing system.   The print system according to claim 1, wherein the status information storage unit also serves as a storage unit for a folder name of each data folder provided in the image data storage unit.

Images