JP5500394B2 - Photo sticker creation apparatus, photo sticker creation method, and program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention particularly relates to a photo sticker creating apparatus, a photo sticker creating method, and a program capable of efficiently performing maintenance work.

  There is known a photo sticker that takes a picture of a user, causes the user to edit the shot image, and prints and provides the edited image on sticker paper. Such a photo sticker is installed in an entertainment facility.

  The flow of one game provided by the photo sticker is to take a picture of the user, edit the image obtained by shooting (doodle), and print the edited image or shot image on the sticker sheet. become. In such a photo sticker, multiple customers are allowed, and a user who is editing can extend editing for a predetermined time unless there is a next photographing user. In addition, the photo sticker has a maintenance function so that maintenance can be performed when the software is updated to the latest software, parts are replaced, or an error occurs.

  For example, in Patent Document 1, when an abnormality occurs in the editing space, a photograph that displays a guide that cannot be moved to the editing space on the photographing monitor to a user who is performing photographing processing in the photographing space. A sealing machine has been proposed. Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-228688 discloses a photo sticker that determines whether or not to perform shooting processing when an error occurs during editing processing or printing processing, and performs execution / non-execution control of shooting processing according to the determination result. A machine has been proposed.

Japanese Patent No. 3554558 Japanese Patent No. 4309201

  However, in the photo sticker described in Patent Document 1 or 2, maintenance cannot be performed unless all games of the photo sticker by the user are completely completed. For this reason, the store side and the person in charge of maintenance have to wait for all games to end in the photo sticker.

  Therefore, for example, when the operating situation in which a photo sticker is used in a fluid flow without interruption, and the game is good, it is difficult to interrupt the game and perform maintenance. Had to wait a long time.

  This invention is made | formed in view of such a condition, and enables it to perform a maintenance operation | work efficiently.

The photo sticker creating apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention corresponds to a plurality of processing means for performing processing of each process of photo sticker creation and a plurality of processing means at that time according to a predetermined operation by a user. the processing means of the processing of steps have been completed to, is shifted to the acceptance prohibition state for prohibiting the acceptance of the operation to the processing means, the processing means of the processing of the corresponding step is not completed at that time, the corresponding When the processing of the process is completed, the apparatus includes a maintenance reservation unit that shifts to the reception prohibited state and starts a maintenance process when all of the plurality of processing units are in the reception prohibited state.

In photo sticker creation device which is an aspect of the present invention, in response to a predetermined operation by the user, among the plurality of processing means, the processing means processing step corresponding at that time has been completed, the processing The processing means is shifted to the reception prohibition state in which the acceptance of the operation to the means is prohibited, and the processing means that has not completed the processing of the corresponding process at that time shifts to the reception prohibition state when the processing of the corresponding process is completed. Is done. Then, when all of the plurality of processing units are in the reception prohibition state, a maintenance process is started.

  Thereby, it is not necessary to wait for a long time, and maintenance work can be performed efficiently.

  The maintenance reservation unit can start a maintenance process when all of the plurality of processing units are in the reception-prohibited state.

  In accordance with a predetermined operation by the user, the maintenance reservation unit displays a GUI indicating that the processing unit that has completed the processing of the corresponding step among the plurality of processing units is in the reception-prohibited state. Can be displayed on the display means provided in the display.

  Each step of creating the photo sticker includes at least a photographing step for photographing the user, an editing step for editing the photographed photographed image, and a printing step for printing the photographed photographed image or the edited image that has been edited. The plurality of processing means includes an imaging processing means for performing the imaging process, an editing processing means for performing the editing process, and a printing processing means for performing the printing process.

  Each process of creating the photo sticker includes a pre-serving process for pre-serving before photographing or editing, and the plurality of processing means include pre-serving processing means for performing the pre-serving process. The

  Each process of creating the photo sticker includes a post-service process for performing post-service during printing, and the plurality of processing means includes post-service processing means for performing the post-service process. .

The photo sticker creating method according to one aspect of the present invention is a photo sticker creating method of a photo sticker creating apparatus provided with a plurality of processing means for processing each step of creating a photo sticker. depending on the operation, among the plurality of processing means, corresponding processing means the processing has been completed in step at that time, is shifted to the acceptance prohibition state for prohibiting the acceptance of the operation to the processing means, the When the processing means that has not finished processing of the corresponding process at the time is shifted to the reception-prohibited state at the time of completion of the processing of the corresponding process, and the plurality of processing means are all in the reception-prohibited state The maintenance reservation step for starting the maintenance process is included.

A program according to one aspect of the present invention includes a plurality of processing units that perform processing of each process of creating a photo sticker, and a process corresponding to a point in time among the plurality of processing units according to a predetermined operation by a user. processing means the processing has been completed, is shifted to the acceptance prohibition state for prohibiting the acceptance of the operation to the processing means, the processing means of the processing of the corresponding step is not finished at that point, the corresponding step process Is completed , the computer is caused to function as maintenance reservation means for starting maintenance processing when all of the plurality of processing means are in the reception prohibited state.

  This program is recorded on a predetermined recording medium, read by a drive, for example, and installed in the photo sticker creating apparatus. Recording media include magnetic disks made of floppy (registered trademark) disks, optical disks made of CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disc), MD (Mini Disc) (registered trademark), etc. And a removable medium such as a semiconductor memory.

  According to the present invention, maintenance work can be performed efficiently.

It is a perspective view which shows the structural example of the external appearance of a photograph sticker production apparatus. It is the perspective view which looked at the external appearance of the photograph sticker production apparatus from another angle. It is a perspective view which shows the external appearance of the photo sticker production apparatus of the state which attached the curtain. It is a figure explaining a user's movement. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the front of a front unit. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the side surface of an edit unit. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the other side of an edit unit. It is a block diagram which shows the example of an internal structure of a photograph sticker production apparatus. It is a functional block diagram which shows the detailed structural example of a control part. It is a flowchart explaining the process which provides a photograph sticker creation game. It is a flowchart explaining a maintenance reservation execution process. It is a figure which shows the example of a maintenance standby screen. It is a figure which shows the example of a maintenance confirmation screen. It is a flowchart explaining a maintenance process. It is a figure which shows the example of a maintenance starting screen. It is a figure which shows the example of a maintenance screen. It is the conventional timing chart in case there is a prior customer service space. It is a timing chart of this art in case there is a prior customer service space. It is a conventional timing chart in the case of a customer service space after the fact. It is a timing chart of this art in the case of after-the-service space. It is a flowchart explaining the other example of a maintenance reservation execution process. It is a figure which shows a starting content selection screen. It is a flowchart explaining the further another example of a maintenance reservation execution process. It is a flowchart explaining the other example of a maintenance reservation execution process.

[External structure of photo sticker creation device]
FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a configuration example of the appearance of a photographic sticker creating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  The photo sticker creating apparatus 1 in FIG. 1 enhances the amusement of work such as shooting and editing, and allows the user to perform such work as a game (play service), and uses the shot image or edited image as a photo sticker or data. It is a game device (play service providing device) that receives money from the user instead of providing it to the user.

  In the photo sticker creating game executed by the photo sticker creating apparatus 1, the user inputs the price of the game, takes a picture of himself / herself using the camera provided in the photo sticker creating apparatus 1, and displays the photographed image. On the other hand, the background image is synthesized, and editing (doodle editing) such as adding an image for synthesis by an editing function such as pen input or stamp input is performed, and the photographed image is designed to be rich. After the game ends, the user receives a photo sticker or the like on which the edited image is printed as a product.

  Such a photo sticker creating apparatus 1 is normally installed in a game center, a store in a sightseeing spot, or the like. That is, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 is sold to managers of those stores from, for example, manufacturers and sales companies. The manager who has purchased the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 installs the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 in a store (for example, a game center) to manage and operate the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 for general users represented by female high school students and female junior high school students. Play the created game for a fee, and make a profit by paying for it.

  Therefore, the high profit rate of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 is important for the store manager. That is, it is desirable that the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 has a high rate of return per unit time. Moreover, in the case of a normal store, the installation place of the photograph sticker production apparatus 1 is limited by restrictions, such as a floor area and a structure. Therefore, it is desirable that the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 has a high profit rate per unit floor area. Furthermore, since the size and shape of each store are usually not the same, and other game machines and the like installed together with the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 are also different, it is desirable that the degree of freedom of installation is higher.

  As a method of improving the profit rate, for example, there is a method of improving the rotation rate of the photo sticker creation game. That is, it is a method of increasing the rate of return per unit time by increasing the number of games played within a predetermined time. However, if there is no user who plays the photo sticker creation game, the profit rate is not improved. Therefore, it is also important to improve the user's expectation and satisfaction with respect to the photo sticker creating game of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1.

  For example, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 can increase the number of users by providing a function with high expectation that a user who has never played a game wants to play. In addition, by providing a function with a high degree of satisfaction that a user who has played once thinks that “it was fun and would like to play again”, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 increases the number of users by increasing so-called repeaters. be able to. As a result, the profit of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 is improved.

  For the user, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 is roughly divided into playing a photo sticker making game (photo sticker making work) and obtaining a photo sticker image and a photo sticker as a result (finished photo). There are two types of entertainment: the seal itself.

  Examples of the former method for improving the amusement of photo sticker creation work include, for example, a multi-functionality of shooting functions and editing functions such as graffiti editing, improved operability, or adjustment of play time and waiting time. . The latter method of improving the amusement of the completed photo sticker itself is, for example, improvement of hardware such as improvement of the quality of sticker paper, high image quality printing, special color printing, etc. Improve the satisfaction level of the elderly.

  In addition, high school girls and junior high school students who are the main users not only stick the obtained photo sticker to their property, but also exchange the photo sticker or talk about the photo sticker as a topic. To do. Therefore, for example, when the image content of a photo sticker is flashy, interesting, scarce or novel, the user may like the photo sticker, but not only that, It is also possible that the conversation will be excited about the photo sticker.

  In addition, by using such a photo sticker, the photo sticker itself may serve as an advertisement for the photo sticker creating apparatus 1. Therefore, improving the amusement of photo stickers not only improves the satisfaction of the user, but also increases the expectations of others, attracting customers due to the spread of reputation, that is, new users by so-called word-of-mouth Can also be expected to increase.

  In other words, in the photo sticker creation game, by providing a function that can create images that users will like, not only the user's satisfaction with the photo sticker creation game but also the satisfaction with the photo sticker is improved. Furthermore, the topicality of the photo sticker and the advertising effect can be improved at the same time.

  Although the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 has such a feature, the casing 10 includes four units, that is, a photographing unit 12, an editing unit 13, a ceiling strobe unit 14, and a background curtain unit 15, as shown in FIG. It is roughly divided into

  The photographing unit 12 has a function of photographing a user or the like as a subject, and the subject is photographed in an internal photographing space described later. The photographing unit 12 is roughly divided into two units, a front unit 12A and a rear unit 12B.

  The front unit 12A is a unit on the front side of the shooting space, and performs processing related to shooting of the user in the shooting space and accepts operations related to the user's photo sticker creation game. The rear unit 12B is a unit on the side that is the rear side of the shooting space, and is a unit that plays the role of the user when the front unit 12A takes a picture. The rear unit 12 </ b> B is configured in a flat panel shape, and its upper part is fixed to the housing 10 so that the lower end of the rear unit 12 </ b> B does not come into contact with the installation floor surface of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1. An external monitor 16 and a speaker 17 are provided on the side surface of the front unit 12A, and details thereof will be described later.

  The editing unit 13 is provided with a configuration (for example, a monitor, a touch panel, and a touch pen) for the user to perform graffiti editing or the like on the captured image. As will be described later, the editing unit 13 consisting of one frame is provided with a configuration for performing graffiti editing and the like on each of the two surfaces so that two sets of users can perform editing work simultaneously. Yes. As will be described later, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 can execute a plurality of photo sticker creating games in parallel. In other words, a plurality of sets of users can play the photo sticker creation game in the photo sticker creation device 1 at the same time. The editing unit 13 has a configuration for performing two graffiti editing and the like so that a plurality of sets of users can simultaneously perform graffiti editing in order to improve the rotation rate of the photo sticker creation game. Is provided.

  The ceiling strobe unit 14 provided above the photographing space incorporates a flash that emits strobe light toward the photographing space in accordance with the photographing timing. The ceiling strobe unit 14 is further provided with a fluorescent lamp, and functions as illumination that constantly illuminates the shooting space (the user in the shooting space). The photographing space is simply configured as a closed space as will be described later. Therefore, it is difficult for light to enter from the outside, and the user's operability may be deteriorated because it tends to be dark. Therefore, the ceiling strobe unit 14 can illuminate the shooting space with the illumination to avoid such a fear and improve operability. Such illumination is also provided in the front unit 12A.

  Moreover, the background curtain unit 15 provided with the movable curtain (background curtain) utilized for a background is provided in the upper part of the back unit 12B, for example. In the background curtain unit 15, for example, a plurality of winding curtains having different colors or patterns are suspended. For example, there are colors and patterns that are popular among young people who are the main users, such as bright single colors, stylish and cute patterns like foreign picture books, and colorful pop patterns (for the public). Multiple items are aligned.

  The background curtain unit 15 operates in conjunction with a photographing function such as a camera or a strobe provided in the front unit 12A. At the time of photographing, for example, a curtain of a color selected by the user is lowered and other curtains are wound. take. By operating in this manner, the background curtain unit 15 can easily provide a background of a design desired by the user, a design according to the shooting mode, and the like. Thereby, the photograph sticker creation apparatus 1 can improve the user's satisfaction with respect to an image (photo sticker).

  The number of curtains (background curtains) provided in the background curtain unit 15 is arbitrary. For example, only one background curtain may be suspended from the background curtain unit 15. In this case, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 may prepare a plurality of types of background images for composition, and may synthesize the background image selected by the user from the photographed images. By doing in this way, even if there is only one physical background curtain provided in the photo sticker creating apparatus 1, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 can cope with various user preferences.

  When the user is shooting in the shooting space in the shooting unit 12, the external monitor 16 gives the user who is shooting to the user who is waiting to use the shooting space next time. The video showing the progress of the game is output (displayed), and the content (demonstration) that guides (explains) the flow of the photo sticker creation game and how to play is output. In addition, the speaker 17 outputs audio that matches the video and content output from the external monitor 16.

  Further, the external monitor 16 and the speaker 17 are provided on either one of the side surfaces of the front unit 12A. That is, the side surface of the front unit 12A not shown in FIG. 1 is external when the external monitor 16 and the speaker 17 are not provided on the side surface of the front unit 12A where the external monitor 16 and the speaker 17 are provided in FIG. The attachment monitor 16 and the speaker 17 can be installed.

  FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 of FIG. 1 as viewed from the editing unit 13 side.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the editing unit 13 is installed adjacent to the surface of the front unit 12A opposite to the surface on the rear unit 12B side (that is, the surface on the imaging space side). A first editing interface 13A and a second editing interface 13B are provided on two side surfaces of the editing unit 13 that are orthogonal to the front unit 12A. That is, the editing unit 13 allows a plurality of sets of users who perform the photo sticker creation game to perform editing operations with the editing unit 13 facing each other in a direction orthogonal to the direction connecting the front unit 12A and the rear unit 12B. Two editing interfaces are provided so that this can be done.

  Also, on the surface of the editing unit 13 that faces the photographing unit 12, a photo sticker discharge unit 13C that is provided to the user by discharging the photo sticker created by playing the photo sticker making game is provided. ing.

  FIG. 3 is an external view showing an installation example of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1.

  When the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 is installed in a game center or the like, for example, as shown in FIG. 3, a side curtain 21 is provided so as to surround the photographing unit 12 and the editing unit 13. The side curtain 21 simply surrounds an imaging space in which an imaging operation is performed, an editing space in which an editing operation is performed, and the like, and improves the closeability of each space. In other words, for example, the side curtain 21 contributes to high-quality shooting and the visibility of the editing screen by stabilizing the environment in each space, or blocks the field of view from outside each space. It is possible to perform operations such as shooting and editing without being conscious of the line of sight from the outside.

  That is, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 is configured so that a user waiting outside the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 cannot visually recognize what work or operation the user in the photographing space is currently performing. .

  The outer surface of the side curtain 21 is usually used as a place to place an advertisement, and a flashy design image representing the model name and model image of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 is provided so as to attract attention at the installation location. Printed.

  The photo sticker creating apparatus 1 as described above causes each set of users to play a photo sticker creating game. The photo sticker creating apparatus 1 can simultaneously execute a plurality of photo sticker creating games. That is, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 can cause a plurality of sets to play a photo sticker creating game at the same time. At this time, each group of users performs each work of the photo sticker creation game while moving through a plurality of spaces provided in the photo sticker creation device 1, and advances the game.

[Game flow and space movement]

  Next, the flow of the photo sticker creation game and the accompanying movement of the space will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 4 is a plan view of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 as viewed from above during the user's game. As shown in FIG. 4, the user passes from the outside (user A or user A ′) between the front unit 12A and the rear unit 12B, and is indicated by the dotted line in the figure, the front unit 12A and the rear unit. The photograph sticker creation game is started by entering the photographing space 32 where the photographing work is performed and the price is inserted (User B). If the previous group of users is using the shooting space 32 (if shooting is in progress), the user waits outside the unit (user A or user A ′). In FIG. 4, the user (user A) outputs a video showing the progress of the user's game being photographed and the flow of the photo sticker creation game, how to play, etc., which are output from the external monitor 16 and the speaker 17. It is possible to wait while watching the content that guides the user. Therefore, it can be said that the standby space in front of the external monitor 16 and the speaker 17 is a pre-service space, although it is outside the unit.

  When the price is inserted and the photo sticker creation game is started, the user (user B) performs a shooting operation to photograph himself / herself using a camera or a monitor provided in front of the front unit 12A. .

  When the shooting operation is completed, the user selects one of the obtained captured images to be stored as an image to be edited, and follows the displayed movement guide from the shooting space 32 where the shooting operation was performed, with a dotted line in the figure. It moves to the editing space where the editing work is shown.

  A first editing space 33A is provided on the left side of the editing unit 13 as viewed from the front unit 12A (in front of the first editing interface 13A), and a second editing space 33B is provided on the right side (in front of the second editing interface 13B). ing. That is, in this photo sticker creation apparatus 1, a total of two sets of users, the user (user C) of the first editing space 33A and the user (user C ') of the second editing space 33B, simultaneously edit. Work can be done. A user (user B) of the shooting space 32 is guided to a free one of the two editing spaces. When the user moves to the first editing space 33A or the second editing space 33B, the user performs a graffiti editing work. Hereinafter, when it is not necessary to distinguish the first editing space 33A and the second editing space 33B, they are referred to as an editing space 33.

  Thereafter, when the graffiti editing is completed, the user (user C or user C ′) next performs print setting work and sets the number of divisions and the like. When printing is started, the user performs image transmission, questionnaire input, mini-games, and the like during the printing. Then, when printing is completed, it moves to the printed matter receiving area 34 in front of the photo sticker discharge unit 13C (user D), receives the discharged photo sticker paper, and ends the photo sticker creation game. This printed material receiving area 34 is also outside the unit, but can be said to be a print standby space.

  In the photo sticker creation game as described above, when the user B of the shooting space 32 moves to the editing space 33, the shooting space 32 becomes unused, so the photo sticker creation device 1 uses a new set. A person can use the photographing space 32. Further, when the user C of the first editing space 33A or the user C ′ of the second editing space 33B moves to the printed material receiving area 34, the first editing space 33A or the second editing space 33B is not used. Therefore, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 can cause a new set of users (user B) to use the first editing space 33A or the second editing space 33B. Note that when both the first editing space 33A and the second editing space 33B are unused, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 gives the user (user B) the first editing space 33A and the second editing space 33B. In addition to guiding the user to use one of the editing spaces 33B, when the user moves to a direction other than the guided editing space, the user can be guided to the guided editing space.

  In other words, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 uses the shooting space 32, the first editing space 33A, the second editing space 33B, and the printed matter in order to improve the rotation rate per unit time and unit floor area of the photo sticker creating game. Using the receiving area 34, a plurality of sets of users can play a photo sticker creation game at the same time (multiple customer service can be performed).

  In addition, the structure of such a housing | casing 10 is arbitrary and may be a structure other than what was mentioned above. Similarly, the method of multiple customer service is also arbitrary.

[Configuration of each unit]
Next, the configuration of each unit will be described.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of the front unit 12A. A front surface 12A-1 in FIG. 5 is a side surface facing the imaging space 32, and is a front surface for the user who performs the imaging operation. That is, the user basically performs a photographing operation in the photographing space 32 toward the front surface 12A-1 (facing the front unit 12A side).

  Near the center of the front surface 12 </ b> A- 1, a camera 51 for photographing a subject in the photographing space 32 is provided, and a touch panel monitor 52 is provided below the camera 51. The touch panel monitor 52 functions as, for example, a live view monitor that displays a composite image (moving image) obtained by combining an image such as a background or foreground with a captured image that has been photoelectrically converted by the camera 51 and captured in real time (immediately). And a function of displaying various GUI (Graphical User Interface) images and receiving a user's instruction through a touch panel superimposed on the screen. In addition, the front surface 12A-1 also illuminates the inside of the photographing space 32 or emits flash light in accordance with the photographing timing by the camera 51, the illuminating devices 53-1 to 53-8, There are provided luggage storage areas 54-1 and 54-2 for storing user's baggage during photographing, and a coin insertion / return port 55 into which a photo sticker creation game is charged.

  Further, on the front surface 12A-1, behind the lighting devices 53-1 and 53-2, near the ceiling of the shooting space 32, guidance voice, BGM (Back Ground Music), A speaker 124 (FIG. 8) (not shown) that outputs sound such as sound effects is provided. In addition, the number and installation positions of the speakers 124 are arbitrary.

  The camera 51 is configured by an imaging device or the like using a CCD (Charge Coupled Device), and captures a moving image as a captured image by capturing a user in the photographing space 32 in the photographing work process of the photo sticker creation game. A part of the captured image captured by the camera 51 is cut out or an image such as a background is combined and displayed on the touch panel monitor 52 immediately. In addition, from the captured image captured by the camera 51 at a predetermined timing, an image of the frame at that timing is extracted and stored as a captured image (still image).

  For example, a camera using a CMOS sensor may be used as the camera 51 instead of the CCD. Of course, any camera other than these may be used as long as the user can be photographed and digital image data can be obtained. Further, the number of cameras 51 and the installation position are arbitrary.

  The touch panel monitor 52 includes, for example, a live view monitor 123 (FIG. 8) such as a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) or an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) and a colorless and transparent touch panel laminated thereon, and is used during photographing work. The captured image captured by the camera 51 is displayed immediately (in real time) so that the person can determine the standing position and posture while checking the photographing result. At this time, for example, the captured image displayed on the touch panel monitor 52 is synthesized with an image designated by the user, such as a background or a foreground, or a part of the captured image is trimmed (trimmed) according to the image size of the image. Or). In addition, the touch panel monitor 52 displays an image related to the shooting work such as a guide image for guiding the procedure of the shooting work, and the touch panel (for example, pressure-sensitive type or electromagnetic induction type) accepts a tap operation by a user's finger or the like, for example. It is made like that.

  The illuminating devices 53-1 to 53-8 are configured by a plurality of illuminating devices that can emit fluorescent light and strobe light, and in order to brighten the photographic space 32 and ensure operability and safety, the photographic space 32 is provided. In order to improve the image quality of the photographed image, the flash is emitted at a timing corresponding to the photographing timing, and the user who is photographed is irradiated with light from various angles. In the following description, the lighting devices 53-1 to 53-8 are referred to as the lighting devices 53 when it is not necessary to distinguish between them. In addition, an LED (Light Emitting Diode) (not shown) is provided on the surface of the predetermined lighting device 53 in order to adjust the brightness of the photographing space 32 by strobe light emission.

  The luggage storage areas 54-1 and 54-2 are shelves that are used as storage areas for user baggage at the time of photographing. The luggage storage areas 54-1 and 54-2 are positions that do not interfere with shooting, that is, positions that do not interfere with the user's shooting pose and do not interfere with the light irradiation of the lighting device 53. Is provided. The user can perform photographing work more comfortably by placing the baggage in the luggage storage areas 54-1 and 54-2.

  The coin insertion / return port 55 is a user interface that allows a user to insert a coin as a price for a photo sticker creation game, or to return a coin that has failed to be inserted or a coin for fishing.

  Of course, a configuration other than that described above may be provided on the front surface 12A-1 of the front unit 12A.

  Next, the configuration of the editing unit 13 will be described.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of the left side of the editing unit 13 as viewed from the photographing unit 12 side (configuration example on the first editing space 33A side).

  In FIG. 6, an illumination device 61 is provided above the first editing interface 13A to illuminate the first editing space 33A that becomes dark because it is partitioned by the side curtain 21 or the like. The illuminating device 61 allows the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 to suppress a reduction in the user's editing work efficiency and improve the safety of the first editing space 33A. In the example of FIG. 6, the upper portion of the editing unit 13 on the first editing interface 13 </ b> A where the lighting device 61 is provided penetrates to the second editing space 33 </ b> B side. The first editing space 33A and the second editing space 33B are shared. That is, the illumination device 61 illuminates not only the first editing space 33A but also the second editing space 33B, thereby improving safety. Note that the installation position and the number of the illumination devices 61 are arbitrary.

  The first editing interface 13A is provided with a tablet built-in monitor 62, two touch pens 63-1, a touch pen 63-2, a speaker 64, and an additional coin insertion / return port 65.

  In the tablet built-in monitor 62, a colorless and transparent tablet capable of inputting position information with the touch pen 63-1 or the touch pen 63-2 is superimposed on a display screen of a display device capable of displaying an image such as a CRT display or an LCD. It is constituted by. Accordingly, the tablet built-in monitor 62 not only displays a GUI image or the like by the display device but also accepts an input operation from the user by the tablet. On the tablet built-in monitor 62, for example, an editing screen including a GUI image for editing work for editing a shot image obtained by shooting work in a shooting space is displayed.

  The touch pen 63-1 and the touch pen 63-2 are detachably fixed to the editing unit 13 by a predetermined attachment on the left and right sides of the tablet built-in monitor 62 one by one on the left and right sides. By using each of these touch pens, it is possible to play the editing process of the photo sticker creation process at the same time. In the following description, the touch pen 63-1 and the touch pen 63-2 are simply referred to as the touch pen 63 when it is not necessary to distinguish them from each other.

  The touch pen 63 is electrically connected to a system installed inside the editing unit 13 by wire (or wireless). The touch pen 63 operates in cooperation with the tablet of the tablet built-in monitor 62. When the user operates the touch pen 63 and taps the tablet (the touch pen 63 and the display screen of the tablet built-in monitor 62 are brought into contact (or close proximity)), the tablet operates as an input unit that receives input from the user. To do. The number of touch pens 63 to be installed, the installation position, the shape, and the like are arbitrary.

  The speaker 64 outputs, for example, sound related to editing work of the photo sticker creation game, such as guidance sound, sound effects, or BGM. The speaker 64 is disposed on the right side of the tablet built-in monitor 62. Since a right-handed user performs an editing operation while holding the touch pen 63 with the right hand, even when the editing operation is performed while leaning on the editing unit 13, there is little possibility of leaning on the right side of the tablet built-in monitor 62. Therefore, by disposing the speaker 64 on the right side of the tablet built-in monitor 62, even when a right-handed user performs an editing operation while leaning on the editing unit 13, the user closes the speaker 64 and can hear sound. It can be prevented from disappearing. The number, design, shape, etc. of the speakers 64 are arbitrary.

  The additional coin insertion / return port 65 is provided to allow the user to insert additional coins or return the change when the user wants to extend the editable time or outputs a plurality of photo stickers. It has been. In addition, payment of this additional price is not limited to a coin, Naturally, it can also be made to be able to pay also with a banknote. In addition, instead of cash (coins and banknotes) that are actually distributed, payment can also be made with prepaid cards, coins, electronic money, etc. distributed at amusement facilities where the photo sticker creation device 1 is installed. May be.

  However, the extension of the editable time is performed when the shooting operation is not currently performed in the shooting space 32 (when there is no next user) or the other editing interface (in this case, the second editing interface). 13B) is possible only when it is empty, and cannot be extended when the shooting operation is performed in the shooting space 32 and the other editing interface is used.

  Note that the configuration of the editing unit 13 on the second editing space 33B side is basically the same as the configuration of the first editing space 33A side shown in FIG. In the following, the configuration example shown in FIG. 6 is also applied to the case where the configuration of the editing unit 13 on the second editing space 33B side is described.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of the photo sticker discharge unit 13 </ b> C of the editing unit 13.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the photo sticker discharging unit 13C has a photo sticker created by a user who has performed editing work in the first editing space 33A (that is, a photo sticker created by operating the first editing interface 13A). And a photo sticker discharge port 71 through which a photo sticker created by a user who has performed editing work in the second edit space 33B (that is, a photo sticker created by operating the second edit interface 13B) is discharged. It has been. The front side of the photo sticker discharge port 71 is the printed material receiving area 34 (print standby space) as described above with reference to FIG.

  A printer is installed inside the editing unit 13, and a printing image created by operating the first editing interface 13A or the second editing interface 13B is printed on sticker paper by the printer. The photo sticker output from the printer is discharged from the photo sticker discharge port 71.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 7, a speaker 72 is provided in the photo sticker discharge unit 13 </ b> C. The speaker 72 outputs sound related to printing and discharging of the photo sticker such as guidance sound, sound effect, or background music. In addition, a monitor or a touch panel monitor may be provided on the upper portion of the photo sticker discharge unit 13C so that a user in the printed matter receiving area 34 can perform a subsequent customer service.

[Internal configuration of photo sticker creation device]
Next, an internal configuration example of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 will be described.

  FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration example of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1. The same parts as those described above are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  In FIG. 8, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 includes a control unit 101 that is a processing unit that controls the entire apparatus of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1. The control unit 101 includes a storage unit 102, a communication unit 103, A drive 104, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 106, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 107, a photographing unit 112, an editing unit 113, a printer 114, a speaker 72, an external monitor 16, and a speaker 17 are connected via a predetermined bus. Is done.

  The storage unit 102 has a non-volatile storage medium such as a hard disk or a flash memory, and stores various setting information supplied from the control unit 101 in the storage medium or is recorded in the storage medium. The setting information is read and supplied to the control unit 101. Note that this storage medium may be anything as long as it can store information.

  The communication unit 103 is connected to another communication device (not shown) via an external network (not shown) such as the Internet or a public telephone line network, or simply via a communication cable (not shown). And is controlled by the control unit 101 to communicate with another communication device such as a mobile terminal such as a user's mobile phone, a user's personal computer, or a central management server. For example, the communication unit 103 transmits a transmission signal supplied as a communication signal from the control unit 101 to another communication device, or supplies a reception signal supplied from another communication device to the control unit 101 as a communication signal. To do.

  The drive 104 includes a removable medium such as a magnetic disk (including a flexible disk), an optical disk (including a CD-ROM (Compact Disc-Read Only Memory), a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc)), a magneto-optical disk, and a semiconductor memory. The computer program and data read out from them are supplied to the control unit 101 as necessary, and stored in the storage unit 102 or installed.

  The ROM 106 stores programs and data executed by the control unit 101 in advance, and the ROM 106 supplies the programs and data to the control unit 101 based on instructions from the control unit 101. The RAM 107 temporarily holds data and programs processed by the control unit 101.

  The imaging unit 112 is a block related to the imaging unit 12 and includes a coin processing unit 121, a background curtain unit 15, an illumination control unit 122, a camera 51, a touch panel monitor 52, and a speaker 124.

  The coin processing unit 121 is activated in response to an activation signal input from the control unit 101. When a coin is inserted into the coin insertion / return port 55, a process related to payment for the photo sticker creation device 1 by the user (game participation) And the activation signal is supplied to the control unit 101. In response to the activation signal, the control unit 101 causes the touch panel monitor 52 and the speaker 124 to perform charging processing, guidance, and the like.

  Based on the background control signal supplied from the control unit 101, the background curtain unit 15 selects a background to be provided, that is, raises and lowers (expands and stores) the movable background curtain. The background may be selected manually by the user.

  The illumination control unit 122 turns on or off the illumination device 53 based on the illumination control signal supplied from the control unit 101.

  The camera 51 is controlled by the control unit 101 to shoot a user or the like in the shooting space 32 as a subject in the shooting process of the photo sticker creation game. For example, the camera 51 captures a moving image under the control of the control unit 101 and supplies the captured moving image data to the control unit 101. Further, the camera 51 acquires a captured image (still image) by operating a mechanical shutter based on a shutter control signal supplied from the control unit 101, and supplies the acquired still image data to the control unit 101. To do.

  The touch panel monitor 52 includes a live view monitor 123. The live view monitor 123 of the touch panel monitor 52 is an image based on RGB signals supplied from the control unit 101 (an image captured in real time by the camera 51, a composite image created using a captured image, a GUI image, or the like). Is displayed. Further, when the user taps (touches or approaches) the touch panel monitor 52 using his / her own finger or the like, the touch panel monitor 52 supplies the position information to the control unit 101. The control unit 101 analyzes the position information, identifies and accepts information and instructions input by the user with respect to the display image.

  The speaker 124 is provided at an arbitrary position of the photographing unit 12 and outputs, for example, sound of a sound signal supplied from the control unit 101 (such as shooting work guidance sound, sound effect, or background music).

  The editing unit 113 is a block related to the editing unit 13, and includes a first editing unit 113A corresponding to the first editing interface 13A and a second editing unit 113B corresponding to the second editing interface 13B. The first editing unit 113A and the second editing unit 113B have the same configuration, and the following description is given with respect to the first editing unit 113A, but is also applicable to the second editing unit 113B.

  As described with reference to FIG. 6, the first editing unit 113 </ b> A includes a coin processing unit 130 in addition to the tablet built-in monitor 62, the touch pen 63-1 and the touch pen 63-2, and the speaker 64.

  As described above, the tablet built-in monitor 62 includes the editing monitor 141 made of a display device such as a CRT display or LCD, and the colorless and transparent tablet 142 superimposed on the display screen of the editing monitor 141. The tablet built-in monitor 62 displays on the editing monitor 141 an image relating to editing, such as an editing input GUI and a captured image, corresponding to the RGB signal supplied from the control unit 101. When the user operates the touch pen 63-1 or the touch pen 63-2 and taps the tablet 142, the tablet built-in monitor 62 supplies a signal representing the position information to the control unit 101 as an input signal. The control unit 101 analyzes the position information represented by the input signal, specifies and accepts information and instructions input by the user with respect to the display image. That is, editing input for the captured image is performed using these configurations.

  The speaker 64 outputs the sound of the sound signal supplied from the control unit 101 (editing work guide sound, sound effect, or sound related to the editing work process of the photo sticker creation game, such as BGM).

  The coin processing unit 130 is activated in response to an activation signal input from the control unit 101. When a coin is inserted into the additional coin insertion / return port 65, a process related to payment for the photo sticker creation apparatus 1 by the user (additional) Print acceptance), and supplies an activation signal to the control unit 101. The control unit 101 causes the printer 114 to perform additional printing processing in response to the activation signal.

  The printer 114 prints the result of editing work performed by the editing unit 113 on sticker paper. When the printer 114 acquires the editing work result performed by the first editing unit 113 </ b> A from the control unit 101, the printer 114 acquires the sticker paper 162 from the sticker paper unit 161 and prints the editing work result on the sticker paper 162. When the printing is finished, the printer 114 discharges the printed sticker paper 162 as a photo sticker from the photo sticker discharge port 71 and provides it to the user.

  The speaker 72 is an audio signal supplied from the control unit 101 (the sound of the photo sticker, such as guidance voice, sound effect, BGM, etc. for printing the photo sticker by the printer 114 and discharging the photo sticker from the photo sticker outlet 71). Audio for printing and discharging).

  When the external monitor 16 obtains information from the control unit 101 that the user is shooting in the shooting space 32 in the shooting unit 12, the user who is waiting to use the shooting space next time. In contrast, a video showing the progress of the game of the user who is shooting is output. In addition, while the external monitor 16 does not acquire information indicating that the user is shooting in the shooting space 32 in the shooting unit 12 from the control unit 101, the flow of the photo sticker creation game and how to play Output contents (demonstration) to guide (explain) etc. Under the control of the control unit 101, the speaker 17 outputs audio that matches the video and content output from the external monitor 16.

[Configuration of control unit]
Next, the control unit 101 will be described. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of functional blocks included in the control unit 101. The control unit 101 controls processing related to each process of the photo sticker creation game.

  As shown in FIG. 9, for example, the control unit 101 includes a pre-service processing unit 201, a photographing processing unit 202, an editing processing unit 203, a print processing unit 204, a post-service service processing unit 205, and a maintenance reservation control unit 206. Configured.

  The pre-service processing unit 201 performs processing related to the pre-service process of the photo sticker creation game in which a user who is waiting to use the shooting space next is served. For example, the pre-service processing unit 201 acquires information representing the progress of the game by communicating with the photographing processing unit 202 through the post-service processing unit 205.

  In addition, the pre-service processing unit 201 acquires information indicating whether or not there is a user currently shooting by communicating with the shooting processing unit 202. If there is a user currently shooting, shooting is performed. Information indicating which step of the work is being executed is further acquired. Further, the pre-service processing unit 201 communicates with the editing processing unit 203 and the post-service processing unit 205 as necessary to indicate the operation contents in the editing work and whether there is a user who is currently in the post-service service. Get information.

  As described above, the prior customer service processing unit 201 acquires information indicating the progress of the game, and reads out image data corresponding to the progress of the game from the storage unit 102. The pre-service processing unit 201 displays an image on the external monitor 16 based on the read image data.

  The photographing processing unit 202 performs processing relating to a process of photographing work of the photo sticker creation game, such as processing relating to a price (coin) input when starting the photo sticker creation game and photographing of the user.

  The editing processing unit 203 performs processing related to the editing work process of the photo sticker creation game, such as graffiti editing on a photographed image.

  The print processing unit 204 performs processing related to the printing process of the photo sticker creation game, such as printing of sticker paper.

  Subsequent customer service processing unit 205 performs a process related to the post-customer service process of the photo sticker creation game, in which a user who finishes editing work and waits for discharge of printed matter is served.

  The maintenance reservation control unit 206 communicates with the prior customer service processing unit 201 to the subsequent customer service processing unit 205 to acquire the processing state (in operation or non-operation) of each process of the photo sticker creation game. ing.

  For example, a maintenance reservation button (not shown) is provided at a predetermined position in the photographing space of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1. An error or the like occurs in one of the processing units, and the store manager or the like presses the maintenance reservation button.

  The maintenance reservation control unit 206 confirms the state of the pre-customer service processing unit 201 to the post-service customer service unit 205 when the maintenance reservation button provided in any work space of the photo sticker creation apparatus 1 is pressed, and is not in operation. Shift to the reception prohibition state.

  Here, the state in which each processing unit performs each process for the user is an operating state (in operation). In the operating state, for example, each process is performed on a corresponding monitor. The GUI necessary for this is displayed. In addition, each processing unit has finished processing for the user, and the user's operation waiting state (acceptable state) is a non-operating state. In the non-operating state, for example, the corresponding monitor The demo screen is displayed.

  On the other hand, the reception prohibition state of each processing unit is a state in which each processing unit has finished processing for the user and the user is waiting for the next operation to the processing unit. In this state, the acceptance of user operations is prohibited. In the reception prohibition state, for example, a maintenance standby screen that is a GUI indicating that the corresponding processing unit is in the reception prohibition state is displayed on the corresponding monitor.

  The corresponding monitor is a monitor corresponding to the processing unit, that is, a monitor provided in a process or space corresponding to the processing unit, and a monitor that is controlled by the processing unit.

  Specifically, in the present embodiment, the monitor corresponding to the advance customer service processing unit 201 is the external monitor 16, and the monitor corresponding to the imaging processing unit 202 is a touch panel monitor 52 provided in the imaging space. It is. The monitor corresponding to the editing processing unit 203 is a tablet built-in monitor 62 provided in the editing space.

  Although not shown in the drawings, when there is a pre-service area and a monitor is provided in the pre-service area, the pre-service process unit 201 performs display control of the monitor provided in the pre-service area. For example, when there is a print standby space and a monitor is provided in the print standby space, the print processing unit 204 performs display control of the monitor provided in the print standby space. Further, when there is a post-service area, and the post-service area is provided with a monitor, the post-service area processing unit 205 performs display control of the monitor provided in the post-service area.

  Then, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 starts the maintenance process in the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 when all of the pre-service processing unit 201 to the post-service processing unit 205 are deactivated and all of them are shifted to the reception-prohibited state. Let

[Operation of photo sticker device]
Next, processing of the photo sticker apparatus that provides a photo sticker creation game will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. When the power of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 is turned on, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 starts a photo sticker creating game process that is a process of creating a photo sticker.

  In step S <b> 10, the pre-service processing unit 201 displays an image of the demonstration screen on the external monitor 16. Here, the demonstration screen is, for example, content that guides the flow of the photo sticker creation game, how to play, and the like. The content may be a still image slide show data indicating the progress of the game, an animation image, or a moving image based on a live-action model. In addition to demonstrations, advertisements (for example, advertisements suitable for the target audience using photo sticker creation devices, whether it is in-house or other companies, or descriptions of other types of photo sticker creation devices sold by the company) may be used. .

  The demo screen image may be, for example, a sample image of a photo sticker image, or introduces new functions of the pre-album and photo sticker creation device 1 that are a plurality of images posted in advance by the user. An image or the like may be displayed. For example, an image including a GUI screen displayed on the touch panel monitor 52 during shooting work, a GUI screen displayed on the tablet built-in monitor 62 during editing work, and the like may be used as the demo screen image. Good. Furthermore, the image on the demonstration screen may display not only a still image but also a moving image.

  Such a demo screen is displayed on the other monitor of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 when the corresponding process is not performed (non-operating state), for example, the tablet built-in monitor 62 when the editing process is not performed. Also displayed on the touch panel monitor 52 when the photographing process is not performed.

  Further, the image on the demonstration screen may include an image that prompts a user waiting outside to enter the shooting space 32 (for example, an image including characters such as “I'm free!”).

  In step S11, the imaging processing unit 202 performs imaging processing. Before the photographing process, when the state of the photographing processing unit 202 is not in operation, a demonstration screen is displayed on the touch panel monitor 52. In this shooting process, after it is determined by the shooting processing unit 202 that a coin with a predetermined fee for starting the photo sticker creation game has been inserted into the coin insertion / return slot 55 by the user, A GUI screen for selecting an image for composition composed of a combination of foreground and background to be combined with an image captured with the user as a subject for shooting processing is displayed, and an image of the user as a subject in the shooting space is displayed. Processing to be photographed is performed. Note that after the photographing process, the display on the touch panel monitor 52 returns to the demonstration screen.

  Further, during the photographing process, the pre-service processing unit 201 displays the image so that the image displayed on the external monitor 16 is different from the image displayed in the process of step S10. Is controlled. For example, the display of the demo screen displayed in the process of step S10 has been continued on the external monitor 16, but if it is determined that coins have been inserted, the progress of the game, that is, the shooting process is performed. You can switch to a screen that displays the progress.

  In step S <b> 12, the customer service processing unit 201 displays the image of the demonstration screen on the external monitor 16 again. That is, since the image displayed on the external monitor 16 is switched while the photographing process is being performed, the image on the demonstration screen is restored to the original upon completion of the photographing process.

  In step S13, the edit processing unit 203 performs an edit process. Thereby, the editing process is performed on the captured image obtained by the imaging process in step S11. Before the editing process, when the editing processing unit 203 is in a non-operating state, a demo screen is displayed on the editing monitor 141 in the same manner as the touch panel monitor 52 in the shooting process. When the shooting process in step S11 ends, the editing monitor 141 displays a GUI screen for the editing process, and a process for editing an image shot in the shooting space is performed. Note that after the editing process, the display on the editing monitor 141 returns to the demonstration screen, as with the touch panel monitor 52.

  In step S <b> 14, when the print processing unit 204 acquires the image of the editing work result by the process of step S <b> 13, the print processing unit 204 causes the printer 114 to acquire the sticker sheet 162 from the sticker sheet unit 161 and prints the editing work result on the sticker sheet 162.

  In step S15, the post-service processing unit 205 uses the tablet built-in monitor 62 in the editing space to transfer the image to the mini-game for posting the edited image to the user waiting for the end of printing, to the portable terminal. Post-service processing is performed to provide mobile transmission services, questionnaire input, etc. as post-service services. In the case of a photo sticker creating apparatus that has a post-service space and a monitor in the space, the post-service service processing unit 205 performs post-service processing using the monitor provided in the post-service space. For example, when a monitor is also provided in the print standby space, the monitor may be used for post-service processing.

  When the post-service processing is completed, the post-service processing unit 205 performs a movement guide process for moving the user of the editing space 33 to the printed material receiving area 34. In step S16, the printed sticker paper is transferred to the photo sticker discharge port 71. Then, the photo sticker creation game process is terminated.

  In this way, the photograph sticker creating apparatus 1 photographs a user as a subject, performs an editing process on a photographed image obtained by photographing, and prints it on sticker paper.

[Example of maintenance reservation execution processing]
Next, the maintenance reservation execution process executed by the maintenance reservation control unit 206 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. For example, the photo sticker creation game process described above with reference to FIG. 10 is being executed, and each processing unit that performs the processes of each process of the photo sticker creation game includes a pre-service processing unit 201, a photographing processing unit 202, and an editing process. The processing unit 203, the print processing unit 204, and the post-service processing unit 205 are in an operating state or a non-operating state, respectively.

  In such a case, for example, an error occurs in the print processing unit 204, and a maintenance reservation button (not shown) provided on the lower part of the external monitor 16 of the photographing unit 13 is pressed by a store manager or the like, for example. Is done.

  Here, the error means a recoverable error or a situation requiring maintenance. The error that can be restored and the contents of the maintenance will be described later with reference to FIG. 16. For example, operation check of the printer state, test printing for that purpose (confirmation of the state of running out of ink), store name change, etc. , Touch panel operation check, touch pen replacement, deletion of posted image, demo image content change (advertising content change), lamp on / off check, speaker operation check, communication status check, contactless IC operation check, Or there is a version upgrade operation.

  In step S31, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 stands by until a maintenance reservation is instructed. When the administrator presses the maintenance reservation button, in step S31, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 determines that the maintenance reservation is instructed, and the process proceeds to step S32.

  In step S <b> 32, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 confirms the state of each processing unit that performs processing of each process of the photo sticker creation game, and whether there is a processing unit that is not operating (hereinafter also referred to as a non-operating processing unit). Determine whether or not.

  If it is determined in step S32 that there is an inactive processing unit, the process proceeds to step S33. In step S <b> 33, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 accepts that the non-operating processing unit displays the maintenance standby screen on the monitor corresponding to the non-operating processing unit (that is, the monitor provided for the process corresponding to the non-operating processing unit). Transition to the prohibited state (transition).

  For example, the imaging processing unit 203 displays a maintenance standby screen as shown in FIG. 12 on the touch panel monitor 52 in the reception prohibited state.

  In the example of FIG. 12, a maintenance standby screen 211 is shown. The maintenance standby screen 211 in FIG. 12 displays “This machine is undergoing maintenance work. Please wait.”

  If it is determined in step S32 that there is no non-operation processing unit, the process of step S33 is skipped, and the process proceeds to step S34.

  In step S <b> 34, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 determines whether or not all the processing units that perform the process of each process of the photo sticker creation game are in a reception-prohibited state. In step S34, when it is determined that all the processing units that perform the processes of each process of the photo sticker creation game are not in the reception-prohibited state, the process returns to step S32, and the subsequent processes are repeated.

  If the maintenance reservation control unit 206 determines in step S34 that all the processing units that perform the processes of each process of the photo sticker creation game are in the reception-prohibited state, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 performs a maintenance process in step S35. Details of the maintenance process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  When the maintenance is completed by the process of step S35, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 displays a demonstration screen on each monitor on which the maintenance standby screen is displayed by the process of step S33 described above in step S36. At this time, all the processing units are in a non-operating state.

  As described above, when the processing of the corresponding process is completed, the acceptance is prohibited in order, and the maintenance process is performed when the status of all the processing units becomes the acceptance prohibited state. Maintenance work can be done without waiting.

  For example, if the demo screen is displayed, the game can be accepted, so the user unexpectedly starts the game, and as a result, confirms the end until all the games are finished. I had to wait for maintenance work, had a long time and was troublesome.

  Therefore, by executing the maintenance reservation process as described above, it is possible to reliably prevent the game from being received, and it is possible to surely shift to the maintenance screen, saving confirmation work and waiting time. it can. In other words, after the maintenance reservation operation, the administrator can estimate the time required for maintenance by looking at the operation status of the game, so during that time it is not necessary to check the processing of the photo sticker creation device, It is possible to do other work.

  In the example of FIG. 11, in the reception prohibited state transitioned in step S <b> 33, an example in which a maintenance standby screen that is a GUI indicating that the corresponding processing unit is in the reception prohibited state is displayed on the corresponding monitor. As described above, the maintenance standby screen may not be displayed on the corresponding monitor. However, the display of the maintenance standby screen has an advantage that the user and the administrator can grasp at a glance that the standby time for maintenance is present.

  Further, in the example of FIG. 11, it has been described that when it is determined in step S <b> 34 that all the processing units are in the reception prohibited state, the maintenance process is immediately started. On the other hand, for example, the maintenance confirmation screen shown in FIG. 13 is displayed on a monitor (for example, a monitor close to the location of the pressed maintenance reservation button) and the maintenance process is performed after obtaining confirmation from the administrator. May be performed.

  In the example of FIG. 13, a maintenance confirmation screen 221 is shown. The maintenance confirmation screen 221 displays a message “Are you sure you want to proceed to the maintenance start screen?” And an OK button 231 and an NG button 232 for inputting OK or NG.

  Here, only when the OK button 231 is pressed by the administrator or the like, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 executes the maintenance process in step S35 of FIG.

  In the above description, an example in which a maintenance reservation button is provided in the photographing unit has been described. However, in the case of a photo sticker creation apparatus provided with a pre-serving unit or pre-serving space for pre-serving processing, The maintenance reservation button may be provided in, for example, a pre-service unit or a pre-service space.

  Alternatively, the printer switch provided in the printing unit or the subsequent customer service unit may function as a maintenance reservation switch, or the maintenance switch is provided separately from the printer switch in the printing unit or the subsequent customer service unit. You may do it. When the printer switch functions as a maintenance reservation switch, for example, when the printer is in an on state, the switch is configured as a maintenance reservation when the switch is pressed once, and the printer is turned off when the switch is further pressed. Provided.

  Furthermore, a maintenance reservation button may be provided in either of the editing spaces, or may be provided in both. That is, any unit may be provided. It should be noted that the number of editing booths is not limited to two, and the number of booths can be similarly set when the number is one or more.

  Next, the maintenance process in step S35 in FIG. 11 will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.

  In step S51, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 displays a maintenance activation screen. In the example of FIG. 11, since a maintenance reservation button (not shown) provided at the lower part of the external monitor 16 of the photographing unit 13 is pressed, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 controls, for example, the advance customer service processing unit 201. Then, the maintenance start screen is displayed on the external monitor 16. The maintenance activation screen may be displayed on a monitor near the place where maintenance is required.

  In the example of FIG. 15, an example of the maintenance start screen 241 is shown. In the upper part of the maintenance start screen 241 in FIG. 15, a tab indicating a “maintenance start screen” is selected and displayed, and the administrator knows that this screen is a maintenance start screen. On the left side of the maintenance start screen 241, a button 251 indicating "go to maintenance screen" and a button 252 indicating "return to demo screen" are arranged.

  When the button 251 is pressed by an administrator or the like, a maintenance screen 261 shown in FIG. 16 to be described later is displayed instead of the maintenance start screen 241. That is, the administrator can start the maintenance process by pressing the button 251. When the button 252 is pressed by an administrator or the like, a demonstration screen is displayed instead of the maintenance activation screen 241. That is, by pressing the button 252, the administrator can stop the maintenance.

  On the right side, precautions related to maintenance and setting information in this apparatus are shown. For example, as a precaution, “● Please read the instruction manual when performing maintenance” and “● Maintenance work must be carefully read by a person with work knowledge and skills. ."It is shown.

  In addition, as setting information, the software version of this device is “Ver.01.xx.xx”, “Strobe remaining number” is “248076”, and “Number of remaining stickers” is “400”. It is indicated that “HDDVersion” is “RCxx (xxxx / xx / xx)” and “Case Serial Number” is “TM0439999Z9”. Also, “Communication time limit” is “2014/2/28”, “Communication status” is “FOMA connection”, “FOMA number” is “090xxxxxxx”, “Seal type” is “AMUZ” -SEL026 "and" Store name stamp "are" XX store ".

  In step S52 of FIG. 14, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 determines whether or not to start the maintenance process. For example, when the administrator presses the button 251 on the maintenance activation screen 241 of FIG. 15, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 determines in step S52 that the maintenance process is started, and the process proceeds to step S53.

  In step S53, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 controls the advance customer service processing unit 201 to shift the display on the external monitor 16 to the maintenance screen.

  In the example of FIG. 16, a maintenance screen 261 is shown. In the upper part of the maintenance screen 261, a tab indicating a “maintenance screen” is selected and displayed, and the administrator can recognize that this screen is a maintenance screen. On the left side of the maintenance screen 261, from the top, a button 271 indicated as “setting screen”, a button 272 indicated as “adjustment / operation confirmation screen”, a button 273 indicated as “game information screen”, “version up” The button 274 shown is arranged. Further, a button 275 indicating “Return to maintenance start screen” is arranged at the lower left part of the maintenance screen 261.

  The button 271 is a button for displaying a “setting screen” for setting each function of the game such as a time limit as maintenance. By pressing the button 271 and going through this setting screen, the display of the monitor, for example, the setting screen of the demo screen for changing the content displayed on the demo screen such as the external monitor 16, It is possible to shift to a store name stamp setting screen for setting characters to be printed on the outside, a pre-album setting screen for deleting a posted image displayed on the external monitor 16 or the editing monitor 141, and performing various settings. it can. Other setting screens include various setting screens such as coin setting, time limit setting, date setting, function use setting screen for setting functions to be used, communication function setting screen, and graffiti booth setting screen.

  The button 272 is a button for displaying an “adjustment / operation check screen” for performing adjustment and operation check of each device of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 such as a printer or a camera as maintenance. By pressing the button 272 and going through this adjustment / operation confirmation screen, the monitor display, for example, a screen display confirmation screen, a touch panel operation confirmation screen, or a printer status (such as out of ink) is confirmed. You can make various checks by moving to a screen for performing test printing, screens for confirming customer service, photography, lighting of the print discharge outlet, etc., and a screen for confirming the communication status with the server. it can. Other confirmation screens include a camera shooting operation confirmation screen, a strobe operation confirmation screen, and an external memory operation confirmation screen.

  The button 273 is a button for displaying a “game information screen” for displaying income information and error information. The button 274 is a button for displaying a “version upgrade selection screen” for upgrading the software of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1. The button 275 is a button for displaying the “maintenance activation screen” again.

  In the case of a photo sticker creating apparatus having a post-service function, the screen shifts from the “setting screen” displayed by pressing the button 271 to the advertisement display setting screen displayed on the post-service monitor. Settings can be made. Similarly, in the case of a device having a post-service function, the operation of the non-contact communication function (for example, the non-contact IC reader / writer function) is confirmed from the “adjustment / operation confirmation screen” displayed when the button 272 is pressed. You can also go to the screen to check and confirm. That is, the photo sticker creating apparatus in this case is provided with a reader / writer that performs non-contact communication for simplifying mail address input by holding a non-contact IC in the post-service area. The / writer is connected to the control unit 101 in FIG.

  Although not shown, a log transmission button may be provided as one of the maintenance functions. Conventionally, log uploading has been performed from the server at a predetermined timing, but by providing this log transmission button, the log can be transmitted from the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 side at an appropriate timing. In addition, by providing this log transmission button, for example, when a trouble occurs in a store, log transmission can be performed immediately, so that the log contents can be grasped at the necessary timing of the operation status, and appropriate The response can be taken quickly, and the timing for confirming the trouble symptom can be shortened.

  The log transmission button may be provided in a screen for performing log transmission, or may be provided at a predetermined position of the apparatus.

  Returning to FIG. 14, in step S54, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 performs a maintenance process. That is, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 displays a desired screen of the administrator via the maintenance screen displayed in step S53 of FIG. 14, and performs maintenance processing such as setting and operation confirmation corresponding to the operation by the administrator. Execute.

  When the administrator finishes various settings and operation checks, for example, by operating a GUI displayed on the screen or a restart switch (not shown) provided in the photo sticker creating device 1, the photo sticker creating device 1 is restarted. Instruct.

  In response to this, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 restarts the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 in step S55. After the restart, the maintenance process in FIG. 14 ends, and the process returns to step S35 in FIG.

  On the other hand, for example, when the administrator presses the button 252 on the maintenance start screen 241 in FIG. 15, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 determines in step S52 that the maintenance process is not started, that is, is terminated, and the maintenance process is performed. Is terminated.

  In the example of FIG. 14, the example in which the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 is restarted after the execution of the maintenance process has been described. However, in the case of maintenance that does not require restart, the process of step S55 is skipped. In this case, for example, returning from the various setting screens to the maintenance screen, returning to the maintenance start screen, and pressing the button 252, the maintenance process is completed, and a demonstration screen is displayed in step S36 of FIG.

  Next, effects of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 will be described with reference to timing charts of FIGS. It should be noted that the above-described photo sticker creating apparatus 1 does not actually have each processing space (booth) even if there is the pre-customer service processing unit 201 as the pre-customer service function and the post-service service processing unit 205 as the post-service service function. Device. On the other hand, FIG. 17 and FIG. 18 show an example in the case of a photo sticker creation apparatus having a pre-service area that is a space dedicated to the pre-service function, and FIGS. The example in the case of the photo sticker production apparatus which has the post-service customer space which is a space only for a function is shown.

  In the pre-service processing unit 201 having a pre-service space, a part of processing (for example, selection of an image for compositing) and post-service processing (for example, address input) by the coin insertion and the photographing processing unit 202 before photographing is performed. And the like) are performed by the user.

  FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a time chart of a conventional photo sticker creating apparatus in the case where there is a prior customer service space. The photo sticker creating apparatus in the example of FIG. 17 has a pre-service space, a photographing space, a first editing space, a second editing space, and a print standby space. Note that the print standby space may be a space that can wait for printing, and may not be a partitioned space like other spaces.

  At timing t00, the user A moves to the pre-service area, and the pre-service process time in which the pre-service process by the pre-service process unit 201 is performed in the pre-service area is started.

  At timing t01, the user A's pre-service processing time ends, the user A moves to the shooting space, and the shooting processing time in which shooting processing by the shooting processing unit 202 is performed is started in the shooting space. At this time, since the pre-service area is vacant, the user B moves to the pre-service area, and the pre-service process time starts in the pre-service area.

  At timing t02, the shooting processing time of the user A ends, the user A moves to the first editing space, and the editing processing time for the editing processing by the editing processing unit 203 is started in the first editing space. The Further, at time t02, the user B's pre-service processing time ends, and since the shooting space is vacant, the user B moves to the shooting space, and the shooting processing time starts in the shooting space. At this time, since the pre-service space is vacant, the user C moves to the pre-service space and the pre-service processing time starts in the pre-service space.

  At timing t03, the shooting process time of the user B ends, the user B moves to the second editing space, and the editing process time by the editing processing unit 203 is started in the second editing space. At time t03, the user C's pre-service processing time ends, and the shooting space is vacant. Therefore, the user C moves to the shooting space, and the shooting processing time starts in the shooting space. At this time, since the pre-service area is empty but there are no users, the pre-service area starts a pre-service area demonstration time in which the pre-service area processing unit 201 displays a demo screen.

  At timing t04, the editing process time of the user A ends, the user A moves to the print standby space, and the printing process time for performing the printing process by the print processing unit 204 is started. At timing t04, the user C moves to the first editing space because the shooting time of the user C ends and the first editing space is vacant, and the editing processing time starts in the first editing space. The

  An error occurs in the print standby space at timing t05 of the print processing time of the user A. For example, the administrator operates a maintenance button installed in the pre-service area. It cannot start unless it is finished. That is, at timing t05, as indicated by the arrows, the editing process is being performed in the first editing space and the second editing space, and it is difficult to start the maintenance work.

  On the other hand, since the advance customer service space is vacant at this time, a new user D can use the game in the advance customer service space, and the user D moves to the advance customer service space, and the advance customer service in the advance customer service space. Processing time starts.

  Thereafter, even when the print processing time in the print standby space ends (error end) at timing t06, the processing in the first and second editing spaces and the pre-service space is continued. Even when the editing processing time in the second editing space ends at the timing t07, the processing in the first editing space and the pre-service space is continued.

  At time t08, the user D's pre-service processing time ends, but the user D moves to the shooting space and starts shooting time in the shooting space. Therefore, at timing t09, the editing in the first editing space is performed. Even when the processing time ends, the photographing process in the photographing space is continued.

  Further, at time t10, the shooting process time of user D ends, but user D moves to the second editing space and starts the editing process time in the second editing space. If the editing process time in the second editing space is not completed, the entire process of the conventional photo sticker creating apparatus is not completed.

  As described above, in the case of the example in FIG. 17, even if the maintenance switch is operated when an error occurs, the maintenance work cannot be started unless all the processes are completed. The maintenance work was not efficient.

  FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating an example of a time chart of a photo sticker creation apparatus to which the present technology is applied when there is a prior customer service space. Note that the processing from t20 to t24 in FIG. 18 is basically the same as the processing from t00 to t04 in FIG.

  An error occurs in the print standby space at timing t25 of the print processing time of user A. For example, the administrator operates a maintenance reservation button installed in the pre-service space. Correspondingly, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 displays a standby screen (for example, FIG. 12) on the monitor (for example, the external monitor 16) installed in the preliminary service space, with the pre-service processing unit 201 in a non-operating state. The maintenance standby screen 211) is shifted to the reception prohibition state. At this time, since the imaging processing unit is also not operating, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 waits for the imaging processing unit 202 whose state is not operating on a monitor (for example, the touch panel monitor 52) installed in the imaging space. A transition is made to a reception prohibition state in which a screen (for example, the maintenance standby screen 211 in FIG. 12) is displayed.

  Thus, after timing t25, the standby screen display time starts in the pre-service space and the shooting space, and even if there is a user who wants to play the game, the operation is not accepted. Each process in the shooting space cannot be used.

  At timing t26, when the print processing time in the print standby space ends (error end), the maintenance reservation control unit 206 sets the print processing unit 204 whose status is not in operation as a monitor installed in the print standby space. The standby screen (for example, the maintenance standby screen 211 in FIG. 12) is changed to a reception prohibition state in which it is displayed. Thereby, after timing t26, the standby screen display time is started in the print standby space, and the operation is not accepted, so that the user cannot use the process of the print standby space.

  When the editing processing time in the second editing space ends at timing t27, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 displays an editing processing unit whose state has become inoperable on a monitor (for example, a tablet built-in monitor) installed in the second editing space. 62), a transition is made to a reception prohibition state in which a standby screen (for example, the maintenance standby screen 211 in FIG. 12) is displayed. Thereby, after the timing t27, the standby screen display time starts in the second editing space, and the operation is not accepted. Therefore, the user cannot use the processing in the second editing space.

  When the editing processing time in the first editing space ends at the timing t28, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 displays an editing processing unit whose state has become non-operating on a monitor (for example, a tablet built-in monitor) installed in the first editing space. 62), a transition is made to a reception prohibition state in which a standby screen (for example, the maintenance standby screen 211 in FIG. 12) is displayed. Thereby, after the timing t28, the standby screen display time starts in the first editing space, and the operation is not accepted. Therefore, the user cannot use the processing in the first editing space.

  The maintenance reservation control unit 206 determines that all the processing units are in the reception-prohibited state at the timing t29, and then performs a maintenance screen (for example, the maintenance activation screen 241 in FIG. 15) on the pre-service space monitor. Is displayed and the maintenance process is executed. As a result, the maintenance process execution time is started in the prior customer service space, and then, at t30, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 is restarted, and the maintenance process (maintenance process execution time in the previous customer service space) is ended. By this restart, the standby screen display time in the photographing space, the print standby space, the second editing space, and the first editing space is also ended.

  As described above, the acceptance process is sequentially performed from the processing unit in which the process of the corresponding process is completed, and the maintenance process is performed when the statuses of all the processing units are in the reception inhibition state. Accordingly, it is possible to shift to the maintenance process without waiting for a long time such as t05 to t11 in FIG. 17 while following the operation flow of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1, and to efficiently perform the maintenance work. Is possible. In this case, the user's photo sticker creation game is temporarily interrupted, but one process in the game is not interrupted.

  FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of a time chart of a conventional photo sticker creating apparatus in the case where there is a post-service space. The photo sticker creating apparatus in the example of FIG. 19 has a photographing space, a first editing space, a second editing space, and a post-service space.

  At timing t40, the user A moves to the shooting space, and shooting processing time in which shooting processing by the shooting processing unit 202 is performed is started in the shooting space. At timing t41, the shooting processing time of the user A ends, the user A moves to the first editing space, and the editing processing time for the editing processing by the editing processing unit 203 is started in the first editing space. The At this time, since the shooting space is vacant, the user B moves to the shooting space, and the shooting processing time starts in the shooting space.

  At timing t42, the shooting process time of the user B ends, the user B moves to the second editing space, and the editing process time by the editing processing unit 203 is started in the second editing space. At this time, since the shooting space is vacant, the user C moves to the shooting space, and the shooting processing time starts in the shooting space.

  At timing t43, the editing process time of the user A ends, and the user A moves to the post-service area, and the post-service and print processing by the post-service processing unit 205 and the print processing unit 204 are performed. Processing time starts. At timing t43, the shooting time of the user C ends and the first editing space is vacant. Therefore, the user C moves to the first editing space, and the editing processing time starts in the first editing space. The At this time, since the shooting space is free but there is no user, in the shooting space, a shooting demonstration time in which a demonstration screen is displayed by the shooting processing unit 202 is started.

  An error occurs in the customer service space at time t44 of user customer's customer service and printing processing time. For example, the administrator operates the maintenance button installed in the shooting space. It cannot be started unless the process is completed. That is, at the timing t44, as indicated by the arrows, the editing process is being performed in the first editing space and the second editing space, and it is difficult to start the maintenance work.

  On the other hand, since the shooting space is empty at this time, the new user D can use the game in the shooting space, and the user D moves to the shooting space and the shooting processing time starts in the shooting space. The

  Thereafter, at the timing t45, the post-service in the post-service space and the print processing time end (error end), and the processing in the first edit space and the imaging space is continued even when the edit processing time in the second edit space ends. The

  At timing t46, the shooting process time of user D ends, but user D moves to the second editing space and the editing process time starts in the second editing space. Even when the editing processing time in the space ends, the editing processing in the second editing space is continued. Accordingly, in the example of FIG. 19 as well, all the processes of the conventional photo sticker creating apparatus are not completed unless the editing process time in the second editing space ends at the timing t47.

  As described above, even in the example of FIG. 19, even if the maintenance switch is operated when an error occurs, the maintenance work cannot be started unless all the processes are completed, and thus all the processes are completed. I had to wait for it, and the efficiency of the maintenance work was not good.

  FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating a time chart example of a photo sticker creation apparatus to which the present technology is applied when there is a post-service space. Note that the processing from t50 to t53 in FIG. 20 is basically the same as the processing from t40 to t43 in FIG.

  An error occurs in the print standby space at the timing t54 of the user A's subsequent customer service and print processing time. For example, the administrator operates a maintenance reservation button installed in the pre-customer service space. In response to this, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 displays the imaging processing unit 202 in an inactive state on a standby screen (for example, the maintenance standby in FIG. 12) on a monitor (for example, the touch panel monitor 52) installed in the imaging space. The screen 211) is changed to a reception prohibition state.

  Thereby, after timing t54, the standby screen display time starts in the shooting space, and even if there is a new user, the operation is not accepted, and the user cannot use the processing of the shooting space. .

  In addition, at timing t55, when the subsequent customer service and print processing time in the subsequent customer service space ends (error end), the maintenance reservation control unit 206 displays the subsequent customer service processor unit 205 and the print processing unit 204 that have become inactive. A transition is made to a reception prohibition state in which a standby screen (for example, the maintenance standby screen 211 in FIG. 12) is displayed on the monitor installed in the post-service space. Thereby, after timing t55, the standby screen display time starts in the post-service area, and the user cannot use the processing of the post-service area.

  At this time, since the editing processing time in the second editing space also ends, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 sets the editing processing unit that has become non-operating to a monitor (for example, a tablet built-in monitor) installed in the second editing space. 62), a transition is made to a reception prohibition state in which a standby screen (for example, the maintenance standby screen 211 in FIG. 12) is displayed. Thereby, after timing t55, the standby screen display time starts in the second editing space, and the user cannot use the processing in the second editing space.

  Further, when the editing processing time in the first editing space ends at timing t56, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 displays an editing processing unit whose state has become non-operating on a monitor (for example, a tablet installed in the first editing space). A transition is made to a reception prohibition state in which a standby screen (for example, the maintenance standby screen 211 in FIG. 12) is displayed on the built-in monitor 62). Thereby, after the timing t56, the standby screen display time starts in the first editing space, and the user cannot use the processing in the first editing space.

  At time t57, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 determines that all the processing units are in the reception-prohibited state, and then displays a maintenance screen (for example, FIG. 15) on the monitor (for example, the touch panel monitor 52) of the imaging space. Maintenance start screen 241) is displayed, and maintenance processing is executed. As a result, the maintenance processing execution time is started in the imaging space, and then, at t58, the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 restarts and ends the maintenance processing (maintenance processing execution time in the imaging space). By this restart, the standby screen display time in the post-service area, the second editing space, and the first editing space is also ended.

  As described above, the acceptance process is sequentially performed from the processing unit in which the process of the corresponding process is completed, and the maintenance process is performed when the statuses of all the processing units are in the reception inhibition state. Accordingly, it is possible to shift to the maintenance process without waiting for a long time such as t44 to t47 in FIG. 19 while following the operation flow of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1, and efficiently perform the maintenance work. Is possible. In this case, the user's photo sticker creation game is temporarily interrupted, but one process in the game is not interrupted.

[Example of maintenance reservation execution processing]
Next, another example of the maintenance reservation execution process executed by the maintenance reservation control unit 206 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 21 are basically the same as steps S31 to S33 and S34 to S36 of FIG. 11, and thus detailed description thereof is omitted.

  In step S71, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 stands by until a maintenance reservation is instructed. When the administrator presses the maintenance reservation button, in step S71, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 determines that the maintenance reservation is instructed, and the process proceeds to step S72.

  In step S72, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 confirms the state of each processing unit that performs processing of each process of the photo sticker creation game, and determines whether there is a processing unit that is not in operation.

  In step S72, when it is determined that there is an inoperative processing unit, the process proceeds to step S73. In step S73, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 sets the non-operating processing unit on the monitor corresponding to the non-operating processing unit (that is, the monitor provided for the process corresponding to the non-operating processing unit) (for example, FIG. 12). The maintenance standby screen 211) is transitioned (shifted) to the reception-prohibited state.

  If it is determined in step S72 that there is no non-operating processing unit, the process in step S73 is skipped, and the process proceeds to step S74.

  In step S74, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 determines whether or not the button has been pressed again. That is, in step S74, it is determined whether the maintenance reservation button has been pressed again after the maintenance standby screen has already been displayed on the monitor corresponding to the inactive processing unit. If it is determined in step S74 that the button has been pressed again, in step S75, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 displays the maintenance standby screen on the monitor (that is, the monitor corresponding to the inactive processing unit). A startup content selection screen as shown in FIG. 22 is displayed.

  In the example of FIG. 22, an activation content selection screen 281 is shown. In the startup content selection screen 281 of FIG. 22, “Please select the next startup content” is displayed. Below that, check box 291-1 and the characters “1. Display demo screen”, check The box 291-2 and the characters “2. Go to the maintenance start screen”, the check box 291-3 and the characters “3. Return to the maintenance standby screen” are displayed, and the OK button 292 is further displayed thereunder. ing.

  The administrator can select a screen to be displayed on the monitor by selecting one of the check boxes 291-1 to 291-3 and pressing the OK button 292.

  That is, when the OK button 292 is pressed after selecting the check box 291-1, a demonstration screen is displayed on the monitor on which the activation content selection screen 281 is displayed. In this case, the maintenance process is skipped, and the processing unit in the reception-prohibited state is shifted to the non-operating state.

  When the OK button 292 is pressed after selecting the check box 291-2, a maintenance activation screen is displayed on the monitor on which the activation content selection screen 281 is displayed. However, if there is a processing unit in the operating state, the processing is forcibly interrupted, and the processing unit is shifted to the reception prohibited state. At this time, a maintenance standby screen is displayed on the corresponding monitor.

  When the OK button 292 is pressed after the check box 291-3 is selected, a maintenance standby screen is displayed on the monitor on which the activation content selection screen 281 is displayed. In this case, the processing unit corresponding to the monitor on which the activation content selection screen 281 is displayed is shifted to the reception prohibited state.

  Returning to FIG. 21, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 determines in step S76 whether or not to return to the demonstration screen. If the maintenance reservation control unit 206 determines in step S76 not to return to the demonstration screen, it determines in step S77 whether or not to proceed to the maintenance activation screen.

  If it is determined in step S77 that the maintenance start screen does not proceed, the process proceeds to step S78. If it is determined in step S74 that the button has not been pressed again, the process proceeds to step S78.

  In step S78, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 determines whether or not all the processing units that perform the processes of each process of the photo sticker creation game are in a reception-prohibited state. In step S78, when it is determined that all the processing units that perform the processes of each process of the photo sticker creation game are not in the reception-prohibited state, the process returns to step S72, and the subsequent processes are repeated.

  When the maintenance reservation control unit 206 determines in step S78 that all the processing units that perform the processes of each process of the photo sticker creation game are in the reception-prohibited state, the process proceeds to step S79. If it is determined in step S77 that the maintenance start screen is displayed, the process proceeds to step S79. At this time, if there is a processing unit in the operating state, the processing is forcibly interrupted, the processing unit is shifted to the reception prohibition state, and a maintenance standby screen is displayed on the corresponding monitor.

  The maintenance reservation control unit 206 performs a maintenance process in step S79. Since this maintenance process is the same as the maintenance process described above with reference to FIG. 14, the description thereof is omitted.

  When the maintenance is completed by the process of step S79, the process proceeds to step S80. Even in the case where it is determined in step S76 to return to the demonstration screen, the process proceeds to step S80.

  In step S80, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 displays a demonstration screen on each monitor on which the maintenance standby screen is displayed by the processing in step S73 described above. At this time, the processing unit in the reception-prohibited state is in the non-operating state or is shifted (transitioned) to the non-operating state.

  As described above, when the maintenance reservation button is pressed again while the maintenance standby screen is displayed, a screen (for example, the startup content selection screen 281 in FIG. 22) that can be selected for screen display is displayed. The screen to be displayed next can be selected.

  Thereby, the maintenance reservation can be canceled halfway. In addition, for example, during emergency maintenance, the photo sticker creation game can be forcibly interrupted to perform maintenance processing.

  In the example of FIG. 21, when the maintenance standby screen is displayed even on one monitor, when the maintenance reservation button is pressed again, an example in which a screen that can be selected as a screen display is displayed is described. For example, if the maintenance reservation button is pressed again after the maintenance standby screen is displayed on all the monitors, a screen that can be selected for screen display can be displayed.

[Example of maintenance reservation execution processing]
Next, still another example of the maintenance reservation execution process executed by the maintenance reservation control unit 206 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Note that steps S101 to S103, S108, and S109 in FIG. 23 are basically the same as steps S31 to S33, S35, and S36 in FIG. 11, and thus detailed description thereof is omitted.

  In step S101, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 is on standby until a maintenance reservation is instructed. When the administrator presses the maintenance reservation button, in step S101, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 determines that the maintenance reservation is instructed, and the process proceeds to step S102.

  In step S102, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 confirms the state of each processing unit that performs processing of each process of the photo sticker creation game, and determines whether there is a processing unit that is not in operation.

  If it is determined in step S102 that there is an inactive processing unit, the process proceeds to step S103. In step S <b> 103, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 accepts the non-operating processing unit by displaying a maintenance standby screen on the monitor corresponding to the non-operating processing unit (that is, the monitor provided for the process corresponding to the non-operating processing unit). Transition to the prohibited state (transition).

  If it is determined in step S102 that there is no non-operation processing unit, the process in step S103 is skipped, and the process proceeds to step S104.

  In step S <b> 104, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 determines whether all the processing units that perform the processes of each process of the photo sticker creation game are in a reception-prohibited state. If it is determined in step S104 that all the processing units that perform each process of the photo sticker creation game are not in the reception-prohibited state, the process proceeds to step S105.

  In step S <b> 105, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 displays the monitor corresponding to the active processing unit (hereinafter also referred to as the “operation processing unit”) among the processing units that perform the processes of the photo sticker creation game. (Or an administrator) displays a selection screen for selecting whether to continue the game or to stop the game and wait for maintenance. Note that on the selection screen, instead of continuing the game, an option of returning to the demonstration screen may be displayed.

  In step S106, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 determines whether or not to continue the game. For example, when the user performs an operation corresponding to the selection to stop the game and wait for maintenance on the selection screen displayed in step S105, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 responds to the operation in step S106. Is determined not to continue, and the process proceeds to step S107.

  In step S107, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 shifts the operation processing unit to a reception prohibition state in which a maintenance standby screen is displayed on the monitor corresponding to the operation processing unit. In other words, the display of the monitor corresponding to the operation processing unit is changed from the selection screen to the maintenance standby screen, and the operation processing unit interrupts the game (processing) being operated and prohibits the acceptance of the user's operation. It becomes the reception prohibition state to do. After step S107, the process returns to step S102, and the subsequent processes are repeated.

  For example, when the user performs an operation corresponding to the selection for continuing the game on the selection screen displayed in step S105, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 responds to the operation by continuing the game in step S106. The process returns to step S102, and the subsequent processing is repeated. That is, in this case, the running game is continued until the game ends.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S104 that all the processing units performing each process of the photo sticker creation game are in the reception-prohibited state, the process proceeds to step S108.

  In step S108, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 performs maintenance processing. Since this maintenance process is the same as the maintenance process described above with reference to FIG. 14, the description thereof is omitted.

  When the maintenance is completed by the process of step S108, the process proceeds to step S109. In step S109, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 displays a demonstration screen on each monitor on which the maintenance standby screen is displayed by the processing in step S103 or S107 described above. At this time, all the processing units are in a non-operating state.

  As described above, when the maintenance reservation button is pressed during each process of the photo sticker creation game (during the game), it is possible to display a screen for selecting whether or not to continue the game. is there.

  This makes it possible to prioritize maintenance when there is important maintenance or urgent maintenance.

  In the above description, the maintenance reservation switch and the maintenance reservation button have been described as being provided in each unit and each space of the photo sticker creating apparatus 1, but other than the hardware switch (button), for example, during the game You may make it set a hidden button function in the predetermined position (for example, screen upper right part) of a screen or a demo screen.

  Although not shown in the block diagram of FIG. 8, when the photo sticker creating apparatus 1 is configured with, for example, a reader / writer, a non-contact IC function provided in the portable terminal is provided in the reader / writer. The maintenance reservation function may be activated, that is, the maintenance reservation execution process may be started. In this case, a dedicated card (non-contact IC card) may be used instead of the function provided in the mobile terminal.

[Example of maintenance reservation execution processing]
Next, still another example of the maintenance reservation execution process executed by the maintenance reservation control unit 206 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Note that steps S121, S126, and S127 in FIG. 24 perform basically the same processing as steps S31, S35, and S36 in FIG. 11, and thus detailed description thereof is omitted.

  In step S121, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 stands by until a maintenance reservation is instructed. When the administrator presses the maintenance reservation button, in step S121, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 determines that the maintenance reservation is instructed, and the process proceeds to step S122.

  In step S122, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 displays, for example, a maintenance selection screen for allowing the administrator to select maintenance contents in advance at the time of reservation on the monitor on which a demonstration screen near the maintenance reservation button installation location is displayed. Display.

  The maintenance selection screen can be selected by the administrator, for example, maintenance contents such as out of paper in the printer, test printing of the printer, pre-service, shooting, lighting / extinguishing of the print discharge lamp, software upgrade, etc. Is displayed. The maintenance content is not limited to these.

  The administrator selects contents to be maintained. In step S123, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 determines a continuation processing unit that can continue the game among the processing units that perform each process of the photo sticker creation game based on the selected content. That is, since the importance of maintenance and the place of maintenance can be known from the selected maintenance content, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 interrupts the game or terminates the game according to the importance of maintenance or the place of maintenance. A continuation processing unit capable of continuing a game that can be maintained without waiting is determined.

  Specifically, if the printer runs out of paper, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 determines that the maintenance place is a print standby space, and determines that the game in the photographing processing unit and the editing processing unit can be continued. To do. And the maintenance reservation control part 206 will perform the process after the following step S124 about process parts other than the determined continuation process part among each process part which processes each process of a photograph sticker creation game. .

  In step S124, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 confirms the state of each processing unit that performs processing of each process of the photo sticker creation game, and determines whether there is a processing unit that is not in operation.

  If it is determined in step S124 that there is an inactive processing unit, the process proceeds to step S125. In step S125, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 maintains the non-operation processing units other than the determined continuation processing unit on the monitor corresponding to the non-operation processing unit (that is, the monitor provided in the process corresponding to the non-operation processing unit). Transition (transition) to the reception prohibition state where the standby screen is displayed.

  If it is determined in step S124 that there is no non-operation processing unit, the process in step S125 is skipped, and the process proceeds to step S126.

  In step S126, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 determines whether processing units other than the determined continuation processing unit are in a reception-prohibited state among all processing units that perform processing of each process of the photo sticker creation game. . If it is determined in step S126 that a processing unit other than the determined continuous processing unit is not in the reception-prohibited state, the process returns to step S124, and the subsequent processing is repeated.

  If the maintenance reservation control unit 206 determines in step S126 that a processing unit other than the determined continuation processing unit is in a reception-prohibited state, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 proceeds to step S127.

  In step S127, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 performs maintenance processing. Since this maintenance process is the same as the maintenance process described above with reference to FIG. 14, the description thereof is omitted. Note that the restart in the maintenance process is performed on a processing unit other than the continuation processing unit.

  When the maintenance is completed by the process of step S127, the process proceeds to step S128. In step S128, the maintenance reservation control unit 206 displays a demonstration screen on each monitor on which the maintenance standby screen is displayed by the processing in step S125 described above. At this time, all the processing units other than the continuation processing unit are in a non-operating state.

  As described above, the maintenance content is selected at the time of reservation, the processing unit that can continue the game is determined according to the importance or location of the selected maintenance content, and maintenance is performed for other than the determined processing unit. I did it. As a result, maintenance with low importance or limited location can be easily performed.

  In the above description, an example of performing maintenance processing after instructing maintenance reservation and determining that the processing of the corresponding process has been completed has been described. For example, a maintenance time is set at the time of maintenance reservation. When the set time is reached, the processing unit that has completed the processing of the corresponding process is placed in the reception-prohibited state in order, and the maintenance process is performed after determining that all the processing units are in the reception-prohibited state. You may do it.

  Conventionally, in a 24-hour sales office or the like, maintenance work has to be performed after waiting for a time when there is no operation status, that is, after waiting for a long time as shown in FIGS. 17 and 19 described above. Even in stores that are not open 24 hours a day, even if you want to perform regular operations such as collecting coins at regular timings or just before closing time, you will have to wait to see the operating status. It took.

  Therefore, periodic work can be easily performed by setting the time in this way. Furthermore, by setting the closing time as the maintenance time, it is possible to prevent the game from being played beyond the closing time.

  There is also a photo sticker creating apparatus in which the normal editing time + edit extended time is set as the editing processing time described above. In such a photo sticker creation device, when the maintenance standby screen is displayed, when the editing process by the user who is executing the editing process in the editing space is within the editing extension time, the editing is stopped or the countdown display is displayed. In addition, the editing may be stopped.

  The embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

  1 photo sticker creation device, 16 external monitor, 32 shooting space, 33A first editing space, 33B second editing space, 52 touch panel monitor, 62 tablet built-in monitor, 101 control unit, 112 shooting unit, 113 editing unit, 201 in advance Customer service processing unit, 202 photographing processing unit, 203 editing processing unit, 204 print processing unit, 205 post-service service processing unit, 206 maintenance reservation control unit, 211 maintenance standby screen, 221 maintenance confirmation screen, 241 maintenance start screen, 261 maintenance screen, 281 Startup content selection screen

Claims (8)

A plurality of processing means for processing each step of creating a photo sticker;
In response to a predetermined operation by the user, among the plurality of processing means, shifts the processing means processing step corresponding at that time has been completed, the acceptance prohibition state for prohibiting the acceptance of the operation to the processing means The processing means that has not finished processing of the corresponding process at that time is shifted to the reception prohibition state at the time of completion of the processing of the corresponding process, and the plurality of processing means are all in the reception prohibition state. A photo sticker creation device comprising: maintenance reservation means for starting maintenance processing in the event of failure. A continuation determining means for determining a continuation processing means capable of continuing the corresponding process among the plurality of processing means according to the content of the maintenance process.
In addition,
2. The maintenance reservation unit according to claim 1, wherein, when all of the plurality of processing units other than the continuation processing unit determined by the continuation determination unit are in the reception prohibition state, the maintenance reservation unit starts maintenance processing. Photo sticker creation device. In accordance with a predetermined operation by the user, the maintenance reservation unit displays a GUI indicating that the processing unit that has completed the processing of the corresponding step among the plurality of processing units is in the reception-prohibited state. The photographic sticker creating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the photographic sticker creating apparatus is configured to display on a display unit provided in the photographic device. Each step of creating the photo sticker includes at least a photographing step for photographing the user, an editing step for editing the photographed photographed image, and a printing step for printing the photographed photographed image or the edited image that has been edited. Consists of
The plurality of processing means includes photographing processing means for performing processing of the photographing step;
Editing processing means for performing processing of the editing step;
The photo sticker creating apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a print processing unit that performs the processing of the printing process. Each process of creating the photo sticker includes a pre-serving process for pre-serving before shooting or editing,
The photographic sticker creating apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the plurality of processing units are configured to include pre-service processing units that perform the pre-service process. Each process of creating the photo sticker includes a post-service process for performing post-service during printing,
The photo sticker creating apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the plurality of processing means include post-service processing means for performing the post-service processing. In the photo sticker creating method of the photo sticker creating apparatus provided with a plurality of processing means for processing each step of creating the photo sticker,
By the photo sticker creation device,
In response to a predetermined operation by the user, among the plurality of processing means, shifts the processing means processing step corresponding at that time has been completed, the acceptance prohibition state for prohibiting the acceptance of the operation to the processing means The processing means that has not finished processing of the corresponding process at that time is shifted to the reception prohibition state at the time of completion of the processing of the corresponding process, and the plurality of processing means are all in the reception prohibition state. A photo sticker creation method that includes a maintenance reservation step that starts the maintenance process if it becomes. A plurality of processing means for processing each step of creating a photo sticker;
In response to a predetermined operation by the user, among the plurality of processing means, shifts the processing means processing step corresponding at that time has been completed, the acceptance prohibition state for prohibiting the acceptance of operation to said processing means The processing means that has not finished processing of the corresponding process at that time is shifted to the reception prohibition state at the time of completion of the processing of the corresponding process, and the plurality of processing means are all in the reception prohibition state. A program that causes a computer to function as a maintenance reservation means for starting maintenance processing when a problem occurs.

Images