JP5927790B2 - Image output system and image output method - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image output system and an image output method, and more particularly to an image output system and an image output method for outputting images of a plurality of print sizes.

In recent years, a relatively small-scale image printing system (image output device) capable of printing image data of a digital camera recorded on a recording medium brought in by a user has been put into practical use (Patent Document 1).
Such an image output device is intended to easily and speedily print image data recorded on a recording medium, is equipped with a billing machine like a vending machine, and has a large size (for example, L (Size) only.

  On the other hand, an image output system in which a plurality of reception-dedicated terminals and print-dedicated terminals are connected via a communication network has been put into practical use. The print dedicated terminal includes a server and a printer, and prints image data sent from a plurality of reception dedicated terminals on the print dedicated terminal. The reception-only terminal does not have a billing function and outputs a receipt printed with a fee. The user pays the receipt at the cashier counter by showing the receipt to the store clerk. After payment, the user receives a printed matter to be printed at the print dedicated terminal.

JP 2004-268432 A

  However, the image output apparatus as shown in Patent Document 1 has a problem that only one-size photo printing with high needs such as L size (89 mm × 127 mm) can be performed. On the other hand, other printing such as postcard size (100 mm x 148 mm), 2L size (127 mm x 178 mm), 6 x 8 size (152 mm x 203 mm), 8 x 12 size (203 mm x 305 mm), six cuts (203 mm x 254 mm) There are also user needs for size photos. For this reason, it is conceivable to install an image output device dedicated to each size. In such a case, however, the operation rate of the image output device dedicated to each size is low, and there is a problem that the profit does not increase and cannot be installed.

On the other hand, in a system composed of a plurality of reception-only terminals and one print-only terminal, there is a problem that the waiting time becomes long because print requests from the plurality of reception-only terminals are concentrated on one print-only terminal.
In addition, since the fee is paid at the cashier counter, there is a problem that the store clerk must be resident at the cashier counter.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide an image output system that efficiently and speedily outputs a plurality of print size photographs.

In order to achieve the above-described object, a first invention is an image output system in which a plurality of first image output devices and a second image output device are connected via a network, wherein the first image The output device includes an image input unit that inputs image data, a print acceptance charging unit that receives designation of a print size and the number of sheets of the image data, and charges a fee according to the print size and the number of sheets. First printing means for printing specified image data using a plurality of printers provided in the first image output apparatus and performing printing of the specific print size; The print data including the specified print size other than the specific print size and the specified print size and number of prints are transmitted via the network. Data transmitting means for transmitting to the second image output device, wherein the second image output device receives the image data transmitted from the first image output device; and the data The image data received by the receiving unit is a printer provided in the second image output device according to the print information , and a printer for printing with a print size other than the specific print size is used. An image output system comprising a second printing unit for printing.

The image data recorded on various recording media brought by the user is input to the first image output device by the image input means of the first image output device, and the image data to be printed by the print acceptance charging means, Allow the user to specify the print size, number of copies, etc., and charge the fee. The first printing unit of the first image output apparatus prints image data for a specific print size. This specific print size is a print size that is generally in high demand, such as L size, for example, and the first image output apparatus performs print processing for this specific print size.
Image data for which a print size other than a specific print size is designated is transmitted to the second image output device together with print information including the print size, the number of sheets, and the like by the data transmission unit of the first image output device. .

The data receiving unit of the second image output apparatus receives the image data and the print information transmitted by the data transmitting unit of the first image output apparatus, and the second printing unit uses the print size specified by the print information. The specified number of image data is printed.
The second image output apparatus performs printing of, for example, a postcard size, a 2L size, an 8 × 12 size, or the like other than a specific printing size that is generally a printing size with high needs.
Thus, a user can print a plurality of print sizes by printing a specific print size having a high need with the first image output device and printing other print sizes with the second image output device. Can be obtained easily and quickly.

The first image output device corresponds to image data for which a print size other than the specific print size is specified, and identification information for printing image data for which a print size other than the specific print size is specified Further comprising identification information output means for outputting the identification information by printing , wherein the data transmission means transmits the identification information together with the image data and the print information to the second image output device, and the second image output device. Further includes an identification information receiving means for receiving an input of the identification information output by printing from a user, and the second printing means responds to the identification information in response to the input of the identification information. The image data to be printed is preferably printed according to the print information.

  By receiving the identification information output by the identification information output unit of the first image output device by the identification information reception unit of the second image output device, the second image output device is the second printing unit, The image data corresponding to the identification information is printed. As a result, the image data is printed in response to the input of the identification information by the user, so that the printed matter is not output to others.

The identification information output means prints out the identification information as a barcode, and the identification information receiving means includes a barcode reader, and reads the identification information by holding the barcode over the barcode reader. It is preferable to do.
The identification information may be a password, and the identification information receiving unit may receive the input password as the identification information.
As a result, the user inputs identification information to the second image output device using the barcode or password output by the first image output device, and prints other than a specific print size by the second image output device. It is possible to print a size image.

The second image output device accepts cancellation of printing of image data having a print size other than the specific print size after receiving the identification information, and the print corresponding to the identification information received by the data receiving unit. It is preferable that the information processing apparatus further includes cancellation receiving means for outputting the information on the print size and the number of the canceled image data from the information and deleting the image data corresponding to the identification information.
As a result, printing by the user can be canceled in the second image output apparatus, and information on the print size and number of pieces of image data canceled at this time is output, so that the refund for the cancel can be suitably performed.

A second invention is an image output method for printing image data of a plurality of print sizes by an image output system in which a plurality of first image output devices and a second image output device are connected via a network. A first image output device for inputting image data; and a print acceptance charging step for receiving designation of a print size and number of the image data and charging a fee according to the print size and number of sheets. The image data for which a specific print size is designated is printed using a plurality of printers that are provided in the first image output device and perform printing of the specific print size. A first printing step to be performed; the image data in which a print size other than the specific print size is designated; and the designated print size and sheet A data transmission step of transmitting print information including the image information to the second image output device via the network, and the second image output device transmits the image transmitted from the first image output device. A data receiving step for receiving data; and the image data received in the data receiving step is a printer provided in the second image output device according to the print information , and other than the specific print size An image output method comprising: executing a second printing step of printing using a printer for printing of a print size.

The first image output device corresponds to image data for which a print size other than the specific print size is specified, and identification information for printing image data for which a print size other than the specific print size is specified The identification information output step of outputting the image information by printing is further executed, and in the data transmission step, the identification information is transmitted to the second image output device together with the image data and the print information, and the second image output device is transmitted. Further executes an identification information receiving step for receiving an input of the identification information output by printing from a user, and the second printing step corresponds to the identification information according to the reception of the input of the identification information. The image data to be printed is preferably printed according to the print information.

Preferably, in the identification information output step, the identification information is printed out as a barcode, and in the identification information reception step, the identification information is read by holding the barcode over a barcode reader.
Furthermore, the identification information may be a password, and the input password may be received as the identification information in the identification information receiving step.

The second image output device accepts cancellation of printing of image data having a print size other than the specific print size after receiving the identification information, and the print corresponding to the identification information received in the data receiving step It is preferable to further execute a cancel acceptance step of outputting the information of the print size and the number of the canceled image data from the information and deleting the image data corresponding to the identification information.

  According to the present invention, a user having a plurality of print sizes can be printed by performing printing of a specific print size having a high need with the first image output device and printing with other print sizes with the second image output device. It becomes possible to obtain photos quickly and easily.

The figure which shows the structural example of the image output system 1 in embodiment of this invention. The perspective view which shows the example of an external appearance of the 1st image output device 10 The figure which shows the hardware structural example of the 1st image output device 10 The perspective view which shows the external appearance example of the 2nd image output device 30 The figure which shows the hardware structural example of the 2nd image output device 30. The flowchart which shows the flow of a process of the image output system 1 in embodiment of this invention. Media insertion instruction screen example (a) and thumbnail screen example (b) of the first image output device 10 Order content confirmation screen example (a) and payment screen example (b) of the first image output device 10 The figure which shows the example of a guidance screen of the 1st image output device 10 The figure which shows the example of a receipt output from the 1st image output device 10 The figure which shows the structural example of the print data 600 Screen example (1) and screen example (2) of the second image output device 30 Screen example (2) of second image output device 30

Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of an image output system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention.
The image output system 1 has a configuration in which a first image output device 10 and a second image output device 30 are connected by a network 40.
A plurality of the first image output devices 10 may be connected.

The first image output apparatus 10 includes a receiving unit 11, a charging unit 13, a printer A15, and the like.
The receiving unit 11 acquires image data from various recording media brought by the user, and allows the user to specify the print size and number of image data to be printed.
The charging unit 13 calculates a fee from the print size and the number of sheets designated by the receiving unit 11 and makes the user pay.

The printer A15 prints an image having a specific print size. For example, it is a printer for printing photographs of L size (89 mm × 127 mm) which have high general needs. By installing a plurality of printers that print a specific print size having a high need such as the L size, a plurality of prints can be simultaneously printed, and the overall printing speed can be increased. For example, three L-size printers are installed.
In addition, the first image output apparatus 10 sends image data in which a print size other than a specific print size is designated to the second image output apparatus 30 via the network 40.

The second image output device 30 includes a server 31, a printer B33, and the like.
The server 31 receives image data designated with a print size other than the specific print size sent from the first image output device 10 and performs data processing so that the printer B33 can print.
The printer B <b> 33 is a printer that prints an image having a print size other than the L size, which is a specific print size printed by the first image output apparatus 10. For example, postcard size (100 mm × 148 mm), 2L size (127 mm × 178 mm), 6 × 8 size (152 mm × 203 mm), six-cut size (203 mm × 254 mm), 8 × 12 size (203 mm × 305 mm), etc. There is.

Next, the configuration of the first image output device 10 and the second image output device 30 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.
2 is a perspective view showing an example of the appearance of the first image output device 10, FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the first image output device 10, and FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the second image output device. FIG. 5 is a perspective view illustrating an example of the external appearance of the second image output apparatus 30. FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 2, a display device 23 such as a liquid crystal display with a touch panel is disposed on the upper front surface of the first image output device 10. The display 23 with a touch panel displays operation guidance, operation status, thumbnail images of read image data, and the like, and allows a print image, print size, and number of sheets to be specified by the touch panel.

A media insertion slot 12 is provided at the bottom of the display 23 with a touch panel. The media insertion slot 12 is an insertion slot for various media (smart media, compact flash (registered trademark) card (CF card), floppy (registered trademark) disk, PC card, CD-ROM, etc.). They are arranged in one place.
In addition, in the housing of the first image output apparatus 10, a main body (not shown) of a reading / writing device for each medium is installed corresponding to the insertion port of each recording medium. Each insertion slot may be provided with a shutter (not shown) so that the recording medium cannot be taken out until the fee collection is completed.

  In the lower part of the first image output device 10, there are a charge insertion port (coin insertion port 16, bill insertion port 17), a change return port 19, a receipt outlet 27, a printed matter outlet 21, a maintenance key 29, and a door opening / closing. Keys 25 and the like are respectively arranged.

The charge insertion port (16, 17), the change return port 19, and the receipt outlet 27 function as a charging unit.
The user pays a fee by inserting a coin into the coin insertion slot 16 or inserting a banknote into the banknote insertion slot 17. When there is change, it is discharged from the change return port 19.
In addition, after collecting the fee, a receipt printed with a receipt on which the collection amount, order details, etc. are printed is discharged from the receipt outlet 27. A receipt printing printer is provided in the first image output device 10 housing corresponding to the receipt outlet 27.

A printed product outlet 21 is provided at the lower part of the housing. Printed printed matter is discharged from the printed matter outlet 21.
Normally, a plurality of printer bodies (not shown) are installed in the housing of the first image output apparatus 10 so that a plurality of image prints can be simultaneously performed. Collected at one printed matter outlet 21 provided at the lower part of one image output device 10, the user can take it out collectively.

The maintenance key 29 is a key for switching between an operation mode in which the user uses the first image output device 10 and a management mode in which the administrator performs maintenance, settings, and the like of the first image output device 10.
The door opening / closing key 25 is a door opening / closing key for the entire lower part of the first image output device 10, and is used when maintenance of various devices provided in the housing is performed.

  Although not shown in the figure, the first image output device 10 includes a personal computer including a control unit for controlling each component of the first image output device 10 and a power supply box that converts voltage. An uninterruptible power supply device that prevents damage to the CPU and hard disk of the control unit during a power failure is provided.

Next, the hardware configuration of the first image output apparatus 10 will be described with reference to FIG.
The first image output device 10 includes a control unit 101, a storage unit 102, an input / output unit 103, a communication unit 104, various media reading units 105, a shutter 106, a display (with a touch panel) 107, a coin mech 108, a bill validator 109, a receipt. A journal processing unit 110, a printer A111, and the like are connected via a bus 112.

The control unit 101 includes a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, and the like, and drives and controls each device connected via the bus 112 in accordance with a program stored in the storage unit 102.
The storage unit 102 includes a program for driving and controlling each component, for example, an image input program, a billing process program, a printer control program, a receipt print process program, an image data transmission program, etc. Various control data and the like are stored.
These program codes are read into the RAM as necessary by the control unit 101 and executed by the CPU.

  The input / output unit 103 is a CD-ROM drive device, a keyboard, a mouse, and the like. The input / output unit 103 is an update of the program and control data stored in the control unit 101 and the storage unit 102, and the setting of the first image output device 10 is performed. Used during maintenance. During maintenance, the maintenance key 29 is used to switch to the management mode, and a CD-ROM for program update is inserted into the input / output unit 103 to rewrite data and input setting data.

  The communication unit 104 is connected to and communicates with the second image output device 30 via the network 40, and executes communication control processing of the network 40. For example, Internet communication using TCP / IP (Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol) is possible.

  Various media readers 105 play a role of an image input function. The shutter 106 is provided at each recording medium insertion slot, and opens and closes the recording medium insertion slot so that the recording medium cannot be taken out from the time of reading until the accounting process is completed.

  The display (with touch panel) 107 displays operation guidance, thumbnail display, display for specifying the print size / number of copies, and the like for the user. The user can select an image by touching the touch panel. You can specify the print size and number of copies.

The coin mech 108, the bill validator 109, and the receipt journal processing unit 110 serve as a charging function. The coin mech 108 is provided in the housing of the first image output device 10 corresponding to the coin insertion slot 16 and manages input / output of coins.
The bill burr 109 is provided in the housing of the first image output device 10 corresponding to the bill insertion slot 17 and manages input / output of bills.
The receipt journal processing unit 110 is provided in the housing of the first image output device 10 corresponding to the receipt outlet 27 and performs receipt printing.

The printer A111 installed in the housing of the first image output apparatus 10 includes, for example, a plurality of printers for printing an image having a specific print size. A print size having a high general need becomes a specific print size. For example, three printers for L size printing are installed.
As a result, a plurality of L-size image prints designated by the user can be simultaneously executed by the three printers, the overall printing time can be shortened, and the waiting time of the user can be reduced.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing an example of the external appearance of the second image output device 30.
A display device such as a liquid crystal display with a touch panel is disposed on the upper front surface of the second image output device 30. The display with touch panel 35 displays operation guidance and operation status, and allows the user to make various inputs by touching the touch panel.

  In addition to the display 35 with a touch panel, a barcode reader 37 is provided on the second image output device 30. The barcode reader 37 reads a barcode printed on a receipt or the like by the receipt journal processing unit 110 or the like of the first image output apparatus 10. The second image output device 30 prints image data corresponding to the identification information based on the identification information included in the barcode. Detailed description will be given later.

A printed matter outlet 39, a maintenance key 36, a door opening / closing key 38, and the like are disposed at the lower stage of the second image output device 30, respectively.
A printed product outlet 39 is provided at the lower part of the housing. Printed printed matter is discharged from the printed matter outlet 39.
Normally, a plurality of printer bodies (not shown) are installed in the housing of the second image output device 30 as well as the first image output device 10 so that a plurality of image prints can be simultaneously performed. The printed matter discharged from each printer body is collected at one printed matter outlet 39 provided at the lower part of the second image output device 30 so that the user can take it out collectively.

The maintenance key 36 is a key for switching between an operation mode when the user uses the second image output device 30 and a management mode in which the administrator performs maintenance, settings, and the like of the second image output device 30.
The door opening / closing key 38 is a door opening / closing key for the entire lower part of the second image output device 30 and is used for maintenance of various devices provided in the housing.

  In addition, although not shown in the housing of the second image output device 30, communication with the control unit for controlling each component of the second image output device 30 and the first image output device 10 is controlled. Server, a power supply box that converts voltage, an uninterruptible power supply that prevents damage to the CPU and hard disk of the control unit in the event of a power failure.

Next, the hardware configuration of the second image output apparatus 30 will be described with reference to FIG.
In the second image output device 30, a control unit 201, a storage unit 202, an input / output unit 203, a communication unit 204, a display (with a touch panel) 205, a barcode reader 206, a printer B 207, and the like are connected via a bus 208. .

The control unit 201 includes a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, and the like, and drives and controls each device connected via the bus 208 in accordance with a program stored in the storage unit 202.
The storage unit 202 stores a program for driving and controlling each component, for example, an image data reception program, an image processing program, a printer control program, and the like described later, image data, various control data, and the like. Yes.
These program codes are read into the RAM as necessary by the control unit 201 and executed by the CPU.

  The input / output unit 203 is a CD-ROM drive device, a keyboard, a mouse, and the like. The input / output unit 203 of the second image output device 30 that updates and sets the programs and control data stored in the control unit 201 and the storage unit 202 Used during maintenance. During maintenance, the maintenance key 36 is used to switch to the management mode, and a program update CD-ROM is inserted into the input / output unit 203 to rewrite data and input setting data.

  The communication unit 204 is connected to and communicates with the first image output apparatus 10 via the network 40, and executes communication control processing of the network 40. For example, Internet communication using TCP / IP (Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol) is possible.

The display (with touch panel) 205 displays operation guidance, operation status, and the like to the user, and the user can make various inputs by touching the touch panel.
The barcode reader 206 reads a barcode.

  The printer B 207 installed in the housing of the second image output device 30 prints an image having a print size other than the specific print size printed by the printer A 111 of the first image output device 10. The first image output apparatus 10 is equipped with a plurality of L-size printers with high needs, and the second image output apparatus 30 has other print sizes, for example, a postcard size (100 mm × 148 mm). Printers of 2L size (127 mm × 178 mm), 6 × 8 size (152 mm × 203 mm), 8 × 12 size (203 mm × 305 mm), six-cut size (203 mm × 254 mm), etc. are mounted.

The second image output device 30 includes a plurality of printers having different print sizes. Usually, three to four printers can be mounted. For example, four printers of postcard size, 2L size, 6 × 8 size, and 8 × 12 size are mounted. The print size of the installed printer is not limited to this.
The plurality of printers of the printer B 207 allow the second image output device 30 to print a printed matter having a print size different from the specific print size printed by the first image output device 10.

Next, operations of the first image output device 10 and the second image output device 30 will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 6A is a flowchart showing the operation of the first image output apparatus 10.

The first image output apparatus 10 first causes the user to insert a medium and acquire image data (step S301).
FIG. 7 is an example of a screen displayed on the display 23 (107) with a touch panel of the first image output apparatus 10. FIG. 7A shows an example of the media insertion instruction screen 400.
First, a media insertion instruction screen 400 as shown in FIG. 7A is displayed on the display 23 with a touch panel of the first image output apparatus 10, and the user records image data according to the display on the screen. The inserted media is inserted into the media insertion slot 12.
The control unit 101 drives the media reading unit 105 corresponding to the type of the inserted medium, reads image information recorded on the medium, and stores it in the storage unit 102.

Next, the control unit 101 displays a thumbnail image of the acquired image data on the display 23 with a touch panel, and allows the user to select an image to be printed, specify a print size, and the number of prints (step S302).
FIG. 7B is an example of the thumbnail screen 410.
A thumbnail image of image data acquired from the media inserted by the user is displayed on the display 23 with a touch panel.

The thumbnail screen 410 displays thumbnail images of the acquired image data, “−” and “+” indications for specifying the number of copies, the number of prints, the number of orders and the total amount of the order, and “O” for editing the image data. A “draw / edit” button, an “add print size” button for specifying a print size other than a specific print size (L size), and the like are displayed.
The number of thumbnails that can be displayed on one screen is about 10, and when the number of acquired image data is more than that, thumbnails are displayed in multiple pages, and a slide bar is also displayed to move the page forward and backward. The

The user designates the number of prints by touching the “+” or “−” button portion of each thumbnail image. However, the user selects the image by touching the display portion of the image to be printed, and selects “Add print size”. By pressing the “” button, it is possible to designate the number of prints for a print size other than a specific print size (L size).
For example, by pressing the “Add Print Size” button, selectable print sizes such as “PC (postcard size)”, “2L”, “6 × 8”, “8 × 12”, and the like are selected. It is possible to specify the number of prints of the selected print size by touching one of the print size buttons and touching the “+” or “−” button. Become.

When “Add Print Size” is not selected, it is possible to select the number of sheets of L size which is a specific print size.
The thumbnail screen 410 shown in FIG. 7B and the print size designation method other than the specific print size are examples, and the present invention is not limited to this.

When the user touches the “Confirm Order Details” button, the control unit 101 displays an order detail confirmation screen 420 for confirming the designated print size and number of copies on the display 23 with a touch panel.
FIG. 8A is a diagram illustrating an example of the order content confirmation screen 420.
For example, for each print size, a thumbnail image of the image data for which the number of prints is specified, the number of orders, the number of orders for each print size and the amount, the total amount, etc. are displayed.
The user looks at the order content confirmation screen 420 to confirm the order image, the number of orders, and the amount of money for each print size, and presses a “confirm” button if it is satisfactory.
By selecting a button such as “Re-edit”, “Additional order”, “Back”, etc., it is possible to return to the thumbnail screen, change / add the order image, order size, order quantity, and reorder the order. It is.

When the order details are confirmed on the order details confirmation screen 420, the control unit 101 next executes a charging process (step S303).
That is, the control unit 101 first displays the payment screen 430 on the display 23 with a touch panel.
FIG. 8B is a diagram illustrating an example of the payment screen 430.
The payment screen 430 displays the total amount and the like, and prompts the user to input a fee.

When the user inserts a charge from the coin insertion slot 16 and / or the bill insertion slot 17, the amount to be inserted, change, etc. are displayed on the payment screen 430. If there is change, the change is discharged to the change return slot 19. .
In addition to this, the payment screen 430 may display a method for receiving a printed matter other than a specific print size (L size).

When the accounting process is completed, the control unit 101 operates the communication unit 104 to transfer print data of an image for which a print size other than the specific print size (L size) is designated via the network 40 to the second image. The data is transferred to the output device 30 (step S304). The print data will be described later.
In step S304, the print data of the image for which the print size other than the specific print size (L size) is designated is transferred to the second image output apparatus 30 after the accounting process. You may go right before. At this time, if the order is canceled before the user pays the fee, the control unit 101 notifies the user that the transferred print data has been canceled via the communication unit 104 and outputs the second image. The control unit 201 of the apparatus 30 deletes the received print data and discards it.

The control unit 101 operates the printer A111, prints an image of a specific print size (L size), and outputs the image to the printed matter outlet (step S305).
Next, the control unit 101 displays guidance on the display 23 with the touch panel that prints other than the specific print size (L size) are performed by the second image output device 30 (step S306).
FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a guide screen example 440.
As shown in FIG. 9, it is preferable to display that the L-size printing that has been printed by the first image output apparatus 10 has been completed, the printing machine that prints other printing sizes, and how to receive them.

Next, the control unit 101 operates the receipt journal processing unit 110, prints a receipt, and outputs the receipt from the receipt take-out port 27 (step S307).
On the receipt, identification information necessary for receiving a printed matter other than a specific size (L size) is printed together with a receipt amount and the like.

FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a receipt.
FIG. 10A is a view showing a first example 500 of a receipt. Identification information necessary for receiving a printed material other than a specific size (L size) is printed by a barcode at the bottom of the receipt. In addition, it may be displayed how to receive a printed material other than a specific size (L size).
FIG. 10B shows a second example 510 of a receipt. A print receiving password is printed as identification information necessary for receiving a printed matter other than a specific size (L size).

  The identification information may be printed on the receipt as described above, or may be printed by the printer A111 of the first image output apparatus 10 separately from the corner of the printed material or the printed material ordered by the user. You may make it print on this print paper.

When the receipt output is completed, the processing of the first image output apparatus 10 is completed for one order of the user.
The first image output apparatus 10 waits for the next user order until the operation is finished (No in step S308). When the operation of the first image output device 10 is finished (Yes in step 308), the processing of the first image output device 10 is finished.

Next, in step S304 described above, a print size other than the specific print size (L size) transmitted from the first image output device 10 to the second image output device 30 via the network 40 is designated. A configuration example of print data 600 for an image will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 11A is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of the print data 600.

The print data 600 includes identification information 610, control data 620, image data 630, and the like.
The identification information 610 is barcode or password data printed on the receipt (500, 510). This identification information 610 identifies the contents of a print order of a certain user.

The control data 620 includes a set of an image identification code 621, a print size code 623, the number of printed sheets 625, and the like.
That is, the image identification code 621 is a code for identifying an image for which a print size other than a specific print size has been ordered, and the print size code 623 and the number of printed sheets 625 are respectively the images of the image identification code 621. This is data indicating the print size and the number of prints.
In the example of FIG. 11A, the image number 625 “2 (sheets)” is printed with the print size code 623 “1” for the image with the image identification code 621 “0001”.

  The print size code 623 corresponds to a code such as a number assigned to a plurality of printers that perform printing of different print sizes mounted on the second image output apparatus 30. For example, “1” is a printer that prints the print size “postcard size”, “2” is a printer that prints the print size “2L size”, “3” is a printer that prints the print size “6 × 8 size”, “ “4” is a printer that prints “8 × 12 size”.

The image data 630 includes an image identification code 631 and image data 633 of an image identified by the image identification code 631.
The print data 600 shown in FIG. 11A is an example, and the configuration of data transmitted from the first image output apparatus 10 to the second image output apparatus 30 is not limited to this.

Next, the operation of the second image output device 30 will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 6B is a flowchart showing the flow of processing of the second image output device 30.

As illustrated in FIG. 6B, the control unit 201 of the second image output device 30 prints print data for a print size other than the specific print size transmitted from the first image processing device 10 via the network 40. 600 is received by operating the communication unit 204 and stored in the storage unit 202 (step S351).
FIG. 11B is a diagram illustrating a storage example of the print data 600 stored in the storage unit 202 of the second image processing apparatus 30.
Corresponding to the identification information 610 “abc1234”, control data 620 that is order information for a print size other than a specific print size (L size) and image data 630 are stored.

In the example of FIG. 11B, for the image with the image identification code 621 “0001”, two print size codes 623 “1 (postcard size)” (number of sheets 625) and for the image with the image identification code 621 “0002” One print size code 623 “2 (2L size)”, one print size code 623 “3 (6 × 8 size)”, one print size code 623 “4 (8 × 12 size)”, This shows that printing is performed by the second image output apparatus 30.
In addition, image data 633 of image identification codes 621 “0001” and “0002” is stored as the image data 630.

Next, the control unit 201 displays a guidance screen for the user on the display 35 with the touch panel and waits (step S352).
FIG. 12 is a screen example of the second image output apparatus.
FIG. 12A shows a guide screen example 700 for the user. A guide screen example 700 in FIG. 12A is a guide screen example in the case of using a receipt 500 on which identification information is printed as a barcode.
As shown in a screen example 700 in FIG. 12A, the barcode printed on the receipt by the receipt journal processing unit 110 of the first image output device 10 is transferred to the barcode reader 37 of the second image output device 30. A screen prompting the user to hold the screen is displayed.

When the user holds the barcode of the receipt 500 over the barcode reader 37, the barcode reader 37 reads the barcode and obtains identification information 610.
The control unit 201 can specify the control data 620 and the image data 630 stored in the storage unit 202 based on the identification information 610.
As illustrated in FIG. 12B, the control unit 201 may display the number of print sizes to be printed on the display 35 with the touch panel as a guide screen 710.

On the other hand, when using the receipt 510 on which the identification information is printed as a password, a guidance screen 720 as shown in FIG. 13 is displayed.
As shown in FIG. 13, the guidance screen 720 displays buttons of alphabets and numbers. The user inputs the password printed on the receipt 510 by touching an alphabetic or numeric button.
The input password may be displayed as the input password.

  When the user inputs the password printed on the receipt 510, the control unit 201 can specify the control data 620 and the image data 630 stored in the storage unit 202 using the password as identification information 610.

  Next, the control unit 201 executes processing for converting the image data 633 stored in the storage unit 202 into print data having a print size corresponding to the print size code 623 of the control data 620, and prints the print size code 623. The printer B207 is sent to the corresponding print size, and the printer B207 is operated to print and output to the printed matter outlet 39 (step S353).

The process of converting the image data into print data of a designated print size may be started after the user inputs the identification information 610 from the barcode reader 37 or the display 35 with the touch panel and the identification information 610 is specified. Alternatively, the print data 600 may be started immediately after the second image output apparatus 30 receives and stores the print data 600 in the storage unit 202.
For the user, the latter has the advantage that the waiting time is shorter.

  In the case of the print data 600 shown in FIG. 11, the control unit 201 changes the image data 633 of the image identification code 631 “0001” to the print data of the print size code 623 “1 (postcard size)”, and the image identification code 631. The image data 633 of “0002” is changed to print data of the print code 623 “2 (2L size)”, “3 (6 × 8 size)”, “4 (8 × 12 size)”, and each print size is changed. The image is sent to the printer B 207 for printing and printed.

In consideration of the case of accepting the user's cancellation after the charging process (step S303) by the first image output device 10, the second image output device 30 after the input of the identification information such as a barcode or password (step S352). After), in the guidance of the display 35 with the touch panel, a selection screen that allows selection of whether to perform printing by the second image output device 30 or to cancel may be displayed.
In this case, since the billing process has already been completed, it is necessary to refund the fee.
When cancel is selected, information indicating that printing of a print size other than the specific print size (L size) has been canceled by the printer B 207 mounted on the second image output apparatus 30 (print size and It is also possible to print and output a cancellation slip consisting of the number of sheets, fee, etc., and refund at the cashier counter by showing the cancellation slip.
The second image output apparatus 30 may be provided with a receipt printer (receipt journal processing unit), and the cancellation slip may be printed by the receipt printer.

  As described above, in the image output system 1 of the present embodiment, printing of a specific print size with high needs is performed by the first image output device 10, and printing of other print sizes is performed by the second image output device 30. By performing the above, the user can easily and quickly obtain photographs of a plurality of print sizes.

  In addition, the second image output device 30 prints image data corresponding to the identification information by receiving the identification information output as a barcode or a password by the first image output device 10 by the second image output device 30. As a result, prints are not output to others.

  Further, printing by the user can be canceled in the second image output device 30, and information on the print size and number of the canceled image data is output at this time, so that the refund for the cancel can be suitably performed.

  The preferred embodiments of the image output system and the like according to the present invention have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, but the present invention is not limited to such examples. It is obvious for those skilled in the art that various modifications or modifications can be conceived within the scope of the technical idea described in the claims, and these are naturally within the technical scope of the present invention. It is understood that it belongs.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ......... Image output system 10 ......... 1st image output device 11 ......... Accepting part 13 ...... Charge part 15 ......... Printer A
30... Second image output device 31... Server 33.
40 ......... Network 500, 510 ......... Receipt 600 ......... Print data 610 ......... Identification information 620 ......... Control data 621, 631 ......... Image identification code 623 ......... Print size code 625 ......... Number of sheets 630... Image data 633.

Claims (10)

An image output system in which a plurality of first image output devices and second image output devices are connected via a network,
The first image output device includes:
Image input means for inputting image data;
Print acceptance billing means for accepting designation of the print size and the number of sheets of the image data, and charging a fee according to the print size and the number of sheets;
The image data for which a specific print size is designated is printed using a plurality of printers that are provided in the first image output apparatus and that perform printing of the specific print size. 1 printing means;
Data transmission for transmitting the image data in which a print size other than the specific print size is designated and the print information including the designated print size and number of copies to the second image output device via the network Comprising means,
The second image output device includes:
Data receiving means for receiving the image data transmitted from the first image output device;
A printer for printing the image data received by the data receiving means according to the print information, the printer being provided in the second image output device and having a print size other than the specific print size An image output system comprising: a second printing unit that performs printing using the printer. The first image output device corresponds to image data for which a print size other than the specific print size is specified, and identification information for printing image data for which a print size other than the specific print size is specified Further includes identification information output means for outputting the information by printing,
The data transmission means transmits the identification information together with the image data and the print information to the second image output device,
The second image output device further includes identification information receiving means for receiving an input of the identification information output by printing from a user,
2. The image output system according to claim 1, wherein the second printing unit prints the image data corresponding to the identification information according to the print information in response to reception of the input of the identification information. . The identification information output means prints out the identification information as a barcode,
The image output system according to claim 2, wherein the identification information receiving unit includes a barcode reader, and reads the identification information by holding the barcode over the barcode reader.   The image output system according to claim 2, wherein the identification information is a password, and the identification information receiving unit receives the input password as the identification information.   The second image output device accepts cancellation of printing of image data having a print size other than the specific print size after receiving the identification information, and the print corresponding to the identification information received by the data receiving unit. 3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising: a cancel receiving unit that outputs information on the print size and the number of the canceled image data from the information, and deletes the image data corresponding to the identification information. 5. The image output system according to any one of 4 above. An image output method for printing image data of a plurality of print sizes by an image output system in which a plurality of first image output devices and a second image output device are connected via a network,
The first image output device includes:
An image input step for inputting image data;
A print acceptance charging step of accepting designation of a print size and the number of sheets of the image data, and charging a fee according to the print size and the number of sheets;
The image data for which a specific print size is designated is printed using a plurality of printers that are provided in the first image output apparatus and that perform printing of the specific print size. 1 printing step;
Data transmission for transmitting the image data in which a print size other than the specific print size is designated and the print information including the designated print size and number of copies to the second image output device via the network Perform steps,
The second image output device comprises:
A data receiving step of receiving the image data transmitted from the first image output device;
A printer provided in the second image output device for printing the image data received in the data receiving step according to the print information and having a print size other than the specific print size And executing a second printing step for printing using the image. The first image output device includes:
An identification information output step for outputting, by printing, identification information for printing image data for which a print size other than the specific print size is specified, and for which print data other than the specific print size is specified And execute
In the data transmission step, the identification information is transmitted to the second image output device together with the image data and the print information,
The second image output device includes:
Further executing an identification information receiving step of receiving from the user the input of the identification information output by printing,
7. The image output method according to claim 6, wherein, in the second printing step, the image data corresponding to the identification information is printed according to the print information in response to reception of the input of the identification information. In the identification information output step, the identification information is printed out as a barcode,
8. The image output method according to claim 7, wherein in the identification information receiving step, the identification information is read by holding the barcode over a barcode reader.   The image output method according to claim 7, wherein the identification information is a password, and the input password is received as the identification information in the identification information reception step.   The second image output device accepts cancellation of printing of image data having a print size other than the specific print size after receiving the identification information, and the print corresponding to the identification information received in the data receiving step 8. The cancel reception step of outputting the information of the print size and the number of the canceled image data from the information and erasing the image data corresponding to the identification information is further executed. 10. The image output method according to any one of items 9.

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