JP7375336B2 - Shooting control system, shooting control method, and program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a photography control system, a photography control method, and a program, and specifically relates to photography control in a camera rental service.

With the spread of digital cameras and smartphones, it has become possible to easily enjoy taking photos in various places. Users can now not only enjoy the photos they have taken personally, but also easily share them with an unspecified number of people by posting them on SNS. However, at theme park events, concerts, etc., restrictions may be placed on taking photos of performers and characters. This may be due to a variety of reasons, such as copyright issues, concerns about photos that the operator cannot control being widely distributed, or the sound and flash of the camera getting in the way and causing trouble between spectators. Cameras are sometimes prohibited from being brought into the venue, as it is not easy to manage photography.

On the other hand, some people in the audience want to take photos as a memento, or even just show them to friends who couldn't make it. Therefore, at theme parks and some concerts, photography is allowed with certain restrictions, such as photography with flash, video recording, and recording, which are prohibited except for commercial use. Sometimes. There are also examples of fixed cameras that allow photography only from fixed positions. Patent Document 1 describes a photographing device that has functions such as photographing restrictions required by rights holders, such as charging for photographing, etc., such as photographing at an event venue.

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2004-072176

However, even if filming is permitted with the above-mentioned restrictions in place, it is difficult for the operator to strictly control whether or not the audience is complying with the regulations. Furthermore, even when shooting with a fixed camera is permitted, there are also requests from users to allow shooting from any angle of their choice.

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and provides a photography control system, a photography control method, and a program that can prevent unauthorized photography and distribution of photographs without the photographer being aware of photography restrictions. The purpose is to

A first invention for solving the above-mentioned problems includes an image acquisition means for acquiring an image taken by a user at an event using a camera lent at an event, and conditions for enabling photography for each event with the camera. a condition acquisition means for acquiring a condition, an image extraction means for extracting an image that satisfies the photography possible condition acquired by the condition acquisition means from the image acquired by the image acquisition means, and an output for outputting the image extracted by the image extraction means. The photographing control system further comprises a setting means for receiving an output condition setting from an operator of the event for images that do not satisfy the photographing possible conditions.

According to the photographing control system of the first invention, an image taken with a rented camera is acquired, conditions for which photography is possible with the camera are acquired, and images satisfying the photography possible conditions are extracted from the acquired images and output. can do. As a result, images photographed outside of the photographing possible conditions will not be extracted and will not be output. Therefore, the operator of an event or the like can exclude the output of images taken without meeting the conditions for photographing, while allowing users to take photographs, and can efficiently manage photography. Therefore, it is possible to prevent unauthorized photography and distribution of photographs. A computer (rental reception terminal) operated by an operator and a photo printing device that processes photo print orders and printing unattended can be used as the photography control system according to the present invention. In addition, it is possible to flexibly set the conditions for outputting, such as allowing viewing only or printing photos for an additional fee.

In the photographing control system of the first invention, it is preferable that the photographing possible conditions are stored in a storage medium, and that the condition acquisition means reads the photographing possible conditions of the camera from the storage medium. With this, it is possible to acquire the photographing conditions by lending out a tag (storage medium) or the like on which the photographing conditions are recorded together with the camera, and reading the contents of the tag when the camera is returned. Further, the photographing permitting conditions may be stored in a storage section of a rental reception terminal that registers rental information of the camera, and the condition acquisition means may read the photographing permitting conditions of the camera from the storage section. In this case, there is no need to lend out the tag (recording medium), and the risk of loss can be eliminated. Further, the photographing possible conditions may be stored in a server that is communicatively connected to a rental reception terminal that registers rental information of the camera, and the condition acquisition means may acquire the photographing possible conditions of the camera from the server. . In this case, not only is it not necessary to lend out the tag (recording medium), but also the photographing permission conditions can be read out using, for example, a photo printing device or the like that is communicatively connected to the server. This makes it possible for a photo printing device or the like to extract and output only the photos that satisfy the photographic conditions from the photographed image, in the same way as the rental reception terminal.

Further, in the first invention, the image extracting means determines whether or not the image satisfies the photographing possible condition based on additional information recorded in the image photographed by the camera. is desirable. For example, it can be determined from Exif (additional information) recorded on an image at the time of shooting whether the image satisfies the conditions for shooting.

The invention further includes event time acquisition means for acquiring the start time and end time of the event, and the image extraction means extracts the time information recorded in the image taken by the camera and the event time acquisition means acquired by the event time acquisition means. It is desirable to determine whether the image satisfies the conditions for photographing based on the start time and end time of the image. This makes it possible to determine whether photography is allowed or not for each event.

Further, it is preferable that the image extracting means determines whether or not the image photographed by the camera satisfies the photographing possible condition through image processing. Since it is possible to determine whether or not the image is a photographed image based on the content of the photographed image, it is possible to exclude, for example, photography of objects other than the subject of photography even at times and locations where photography is allowed, and to prevent malicious It becomes possible to prevent acts of voyeurism.

In the photographing control system of the first invention , the photographing enable condition may be a condition regarding time, a condition regarding an event, or a condition regarding a location.

Further, in the photographing control system of the first invention , it is preferable that the image photographed by the camera is stored in a memory card, and the image acquisition means acquires the image photographed by the camera from the memory card. Further, the image taken by the camera may be uploaded to a server communicatively connected to the camera, and the image acquisition means may acquire the image taken by the camera from the server. Using a computer operated by an operator as the rental reception terminal and a photo printing device that processes photo print orders and printing unattended, captured images are acquired from a memory card or server, and images that meet the shooting conditions are output. can.

It is desirable that the image taken by the camera be printed out as a photograph. Further, it is preferable that the output means displays an image taken by the camera.

A second invention includes the steps of: acquiring an image taken by a user at the event with a camera lent to the computer; acquiring conditions for allowing photography for each event with the camera; the step of extracting an image that satisfies the photographable condition from the images that have been taken, and the step of outputting the extracted image , and for the image that does not satisfy the photographable condition, the event operator requests output condition settings. The photographing control method further includes the step of accepting a request .

According to the photography control method of the second aspect of the invention , a computer operated by an operator or a photo printing device that processes photo print orders and printing unattended acquires images taken with a rented camera and also processes images taken with the camera. It is possible to acquire photographable conditions and extract and output images that satisfy the photographable conditions from the acquired images. As a result, images photographed outside of the photographing possible conditions will not be extracted and will not be output. Therefore, the operator of an event or the like can exclude the output of images taken without meeting the conditions for photographing, while allowing users to take photographs, and can efficiently manage photography. Therefore, it is possible to prevent unauthorized photography and distribution of photographs. In addition, it is possible to flexibly set the conditions for outputting, such as allowing viewing only or printing photos for an additional charge.

A third aspect of the present invention is an image acquisition means for acquiring an image taken by a user at the event using a camera lent to the computer at the event, and a condition acquisition means for acquiring the conditions under which photography is possible for each of the events with the camera. , an image extracting means for extracting an image that satisfies the photographable condition acquired by the condition acquisition means from the image acquired by the image acquisition means; an output means for outputting the image extracted by the image extracting means; This program functions as a setting means for receiving output condition settings from the event operator for images that are not available .

The third invention allows a computer to function as the photographing control system of the first invention.

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a photography control system, a photography control method, and a program that can prevent unauthorized photography and unauthorized distribution of photographs without the photographer being aware of photography restrictions.

A diagram showing the overall configuration of a shooting control system 1 according to a first embodiment A diagram showing the hardware configuration of the lending reception terminal 2 in the first embodiment A diagram showing the functional configuration of the lending reception terminal 2 in the first embodiment Flowchart showing the flow of lending processing executed by lending reception terminal 2 Flowchart showing the flow of shooting processing Diagram showing the flow of processing executed by the rental reception terminal 2 when returning the camera A diagram showing the overall configuration of a shooting control system 1A according to a second embodiment A diagram showing the hardware configuration of a computer functioning as a server 9 A diagram showing the functional configuration of the lending reception terminal 2 according to the second embodiment Flowchart showing the flow of photographing processing in the second embodiment Diagram showing the flow of processing executed by the rental reception terminal 2 and the server 9 when returning the camera A diagram showing the overall configuration of a shooting control system 1B according to a third embodiment Diagram showing the hardware configuration of the photo printing device 20 A diagram showing the functional configuration of a photo printing device 20 according to a third embodiment A diagram showing the overall configuration of an imaging control system 1C according to a fourth embodiment A diagram showing the functional configuration of a photo printing device 20 according to a fourth embodiment A diagram showing the overall configuration of an imaging control system 1D according to a fifth embodiment A diagram showing the hardware configuration of the lending reception terminal 2B in the fifth embodiment A diagram showing the functional configuration of the lending reception terminal 2B in the fifth embodiment Flowchart showing the flow of the lending process executed by the lending reception terminal 2B in the fifth embodiment A diagram showing the flow of processing executed by the rental reception terminal 2B when returning the camera in the fifth embodiment. A diagram showing the overall configuration of an imaging control system 1E according to a sixth embodiment A diagram showing the functional configuration of the lending reception terminal 2B in the sixth embodiment A diagram showing the flow of processing executed by the rental reception terminal 2B and the server 9 when returning the camera in the sixth embodiment. A diagram showing the overall configuration of an imaging control system 1F according to a seventh embodiment A diagram showing the hardware configuration of a photo printing device 20A in a seventh embodiment. A diagram showing the functional configuration of a photo printing device 20A in a seventh embodiment A diagram showing the flow of processing executed by the lending reception terminal 2B, the server 9, and the photo printing device 20A when lending a camera in the seventh embodiment. A diagram showing the flow of processing executed by the photo printing device 20A when the camera is returned in the seventh embodiment. A diagram showing the overall configuration of a shooting control system 1G according to an eighth embodiment A diagram showing the functional configuration of a photo printing device 20A in the eighth embodiment A diagram showing the flow of processing executed by the photo printing device 20A and the server 9 when the camera is returned in the eighth embodiment. A diagram showing the overall configuration of a shooting control system 1H according to a ninth embodiment A diagram showing the functional configuration of the camera 3 and rental reception terminal 2C of the photography control system 1H in the ninth embodiment A diagram showing the flow of processing executed by the lending reception terminal 2B in the ninth embodiment A diagram showing the flow of processing executed by camera 3 in the ninth embodiment A diagram showing the flow of processing executed by the rental reception terminal 2C (or the photo printing device 20B in the tenth embodiment) when returning the camera in the ninth embodiment. A diagram showing the overall configuration of a shooting control system 1J according to a tenth embodiment A diagram showing the functional configuration of the camera 3, rental reception terminal 2D, and photo printing device 20B of the photography control system 1J in the tenth embodiment.

Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail based on the drawings.

[First embodiment]
First, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of an imaging control system 1 according to a first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the photographing control system 1 of the first embodiment includes a rental reception terminal 2 and a rental camera 3. Peripheral devices such as a monitor 5, a reading device 6, and a printer 7 are connected to the rental reception terminal 2. Further, it is assumed that the camera 3 is rented together with accessories such as a memory card 31 for storing photographed images and a rental tag (storage medium) 4.

The rental reception terminal 2 is a computer used to perform the rental process of the camera 3 and the output process of captured images. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of a computer used as the rental reception terminal 2. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 2, the rental reception terminal 2 includes, for example, a control section 21, a storage section 22, a communication section 23, an input section 24, a display section 25, a peripheral device I/F (interface) section 26, etc. via a bus 27. This can be realized by connected and configured computers. However, the configuration of the rental reception terminal 2 is not limited to this, and can take various configurations as appropriate.

The control unit 21 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), and the like. The CPU calls programs stored in the storage unit 22, ROM, recording medium, etc. to a work memory area on the RAM and executes them, and drives and controls each unit connected via the bus 27. The ROM permanently stores programs such as a computer boot program and BIOS, data, and the like. The RAM temporarily stores loaded programs and data, and also includes a work area used by the control unit 21 to perform various processes. The control unit 21 functions as each means of the lending reception terminal 2 by reading and executing the above program.

The storage unit 22 is, for example, a storage device such as a hard disk drive, solid state drive, or flash memory. The storage unit 22 stores programs executed by the control unit 21, data necessary for program execution, an operating system, and the like. These program codes are read out by the control unit 21 as needed, moved to the RAM, and read out and executed by the CPU. In addition, the storage unit 22 stores rental information (imaging conditions) etc. that are registered by the operator in the camera 3 rental process. Details of the rental information (conditions for photographing) will be described later.

The communication unit 23 includes a communication control device, a communication port, etc., and controls communication with a network and the like. The rental reception terminal 2 is communicatively connected to a camera 3, a server 9, a photo printing device 20 (see FIGS. 7 and 15), etc. via a network, and is capable of transmitting and receiving various data.

The input unit 24 is, for example, an input device such as a touch panel, a keyboard, a pointing device such as a mouse, or a numeric keypad, and outputs input data to the control unit 21 .

The display unit 25 is composed of a display device such as a liquid crystal panel, and a logic circuit (video adapter, etc.) for performing display processing in cooperation with the display device, and displays input display information under the control of the control unit 21. display on a display device. Note that the input unit 24 and the display unit 25 may be touch panel displays in which an input device such as a touch panel is integrally provided on the display screen.

The peripheral device I/F section 26 is a port for connecting peripheral devices, and transmits and receives data to and from the peripheral devices via the peripheral device I/F section 26. Connection with peripheral devices can be wired or wireless. The rental reception terminal 2 is connected to a monitor 5 , a reading device 6 , and a printer 7 via a peripheral device I/F section 26 .

The monitor 5 is a display device that displays images taken by the camera 3, and uses a touch panel display or the like. Images photographed by the camera 3 are stored in a memory card 31, read out from the memory card 31 by the rental reception terminal 2 when the camera 3 is returned, and outputted to the monitor 5. The user checks the image displayed on the monitor 5 and performs order processing such as which photo to print and how many photos to print.

The reading device 6 is a device that reads and writes information to and from the tag 4 according to a control signal from the control unit 21 of the rental reception terminal 2. The tag 4 is lent out together with the camera 3 when the camera 3 is lent out, and is a storage medium in which rental information (such as photographing conditions and camera ID) is stored. For example, an IC tag, an IC card, a memory card, a USB memory, etc. can be used. The reading device 6 is a reading device corresponding to the tag 4, and uses an IC card reader/writer, for example. Further, when a memory card or a USB memory is used as the tag 4, the reading device 6 uses a memory card slot, a USB port, etc. of the lending reception terminal 2. Further, the tag 4 can be a paper medium. In this case, a two-dimensional code such as a QR code (registered trademark), a one-dimensional code such as a bar code, a color code, or the like is printed on the paper medium (tag 4) by the printer 7 or the like. In the case of a paper tag 4, the reading device 6 is a device that optically reads a code, such as a barcode reader or a camera.

The printer 7 is a device that prints an image taken by the camera 3 as a photograph 8. The printer 7 prints the image data on a predetermined sheet of paper according to a control signal input from the control unit 21 of the rental reception terminal 2. The printer 7 is a high-resolution color printer, and the printer type, such as sublimation type or melting type, does not matter.

The bus 27 is a route for transmitting and receiving control signals, data signals, etc. between each device.

The camera 3 is a digital camera lent to a user, and is a camera using an imaging element such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) image sensor. Images taken by the camera 3 are stored in a memory card 31 attached to the camera 3 and loaned. Alternatively, the image taken by the camera 3 may be uploaded to the server 9 via the network 10 using the communication function of the camera 3, and stored in the image database or the like of the server 9 (see FIGS. 7 and 15). .

Next, the functional configuration of the rental reception terminal 2 in the photographing control system 1 will be explained with reference to FIG. 3.
The rental reception terminal 2 includes an image acquisition section 211, a condition acquisition section 212, an image extraction section 213, and an output section 214.
The image acquisition unit 211 acquires an image captured by the camera 3. In the first embodiment, it is assumed that images taken with the camera 3 are stored in the memory card 31. The image acquisition unit 211 acquires an image photographed by the camera 3 from the memory card 31.

The condition acquisition unit 212 acquires conditions for allowing photography with the rented camera 3. In the first embodiment, it is assumed that the photographing possible conditions are stored in the tag 4, and the condition acquisition unit 212 reads the photographing possible conditions of the camera 3 from the tag 4. Alternatively, the conditions for allowing photography may be stored in the storage unit 22 of the rental reception terminal 2. In that case, the condition acquisition unit 212 reads out the conditions for allowing photography of the camera 3 from the storage unit 22 of the rental reception terminal 2. The timing at which the condition acquisition unit 212 acquires the photographing enable conditions is, for example, when the user returns the camera 3.

Note that the photography possible conditions include conditions related to time, conditions related to events, and conditions related to location. Further, conditions may be a combination of these.

The image extracting unit 213 extracts from the images acquired by the image acquiring unit 211 an image that satisfies the photographing possible conditions acquired by the condition acquiring unit 212. As a method for extracting an image, for example, it is determined based on additional information (Exif, etc.) recorded on an image photographed by the camera 3 whether or not the image satisfies conditions for photographing. Specifically, for example, if a time period in which photography is possible (time-related conditions) is set as a photography availability condition, the image extraction unit 213 extracts additional information recorded in the image photographed by the camera 3. By referring to the photographing time information, it is determined whether the image was photographed during a photographable time period. In addition, if shooting is allowed or not for each event is set as a shooting permission condition (conditions related to the event), the image extraction unit 213 sends information about the start time and end time of the event to the event manager or the event management terminal. (not shown), etc., and determines whether the shooting time information recorded in the image is between the start time and end time of the event, thereby extracting images that satisfy the shooting possible conditions. In addition, if shooting is allowed or not for each event is set as a shooting enable condition, the image extraction unit 213 uses image processing to determine whether the image shot by the camera 3 is an image that satisfies the shooting enable condition. It may be used as a judgment. For example, it can be determined whether or not the event is photographed based on the performers and characters of the event shown in the photographed image, the set of the event venue, and the like. If a location-related condition is set as a shooting enable condition, the shooting location can be determined by referring to the latitude information, longitude information, etc. of the additional information recorded in the image, or By determining the target through image processing, it can be determined whether the image was taken at a permitted location or at a permitted location (target).

The output unit 214 outputs the image extracted by the image extraction unit 213. The output format includes, for example, displaying on the display unit 25 or monitor 5, printing as a photograph from the printer 7, and the like.

Next, the flow of processing in the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 to 6. The control unit 21 of the lending reception terminal 2 reads and executes a program stored in the ROM or the storage unit 22, thereby realizing each process described below.

First, the lending process executed when lending the camera 3 to a user will be described with reference to FIG. 4.
A user applies to the operator of the rental reception terminal 2 to rent the camera 3 (step S101). The rental application may be made immediately before the camera 3 is rented out, or the application may be reserved in advance via the Internet, telephone, or the like.

When an application for rental is made, the operator uses the rental reception terminal 2 to perform user registration processing and records rental information including photographing permission conditions in the tag 4 (step S102). Recording of lending information on the tag 4 is performed by a reading device 6 (reader/writer) or a printer 7. In the user registration process, for example, the user's name, date of birth, address, telephone number, and other contact information are registered, and a user ID is issued. In addition, the rental information recorded in the tag 4 includes conditions such as the user's desired shooting time, event, or location, or conditions such as the time, event, or location that prohibits shooting. The user ID, rental date, identification information (camera ID) of the camera 3 to be rented, etc. are also included. As the lending information, for example, the camera ID "1234", the shooting possible condition "shooting available time: 14:00 to 15:00", the user ID "u000543", etc. are stored in the tag 4.

When lending the camera 3 to a user, the operator performs a lending process (step S103). In the lending process, the operator verifies the user's identity, confirms the camera ID of the camera 3 to be lent, and confirms the shooting conditions and return date and time together with the user. Thereafter, the operator lends the camera 3, the tag 4 on which the lending information is written, and the memory card 31 of the camera 3 to the user. Note that if the user brings his/her own camera, the user's camera shall be kept at the reception desk, or measures shall be taken to prevent the user from taking pictures with the user's camera.

Next, the photographing process shown in the flowchart of FIG. 5 will be explained.
The user can take pictures using the borrowed camera 3 (step S201 in FIG. 5). For example, even if "photography possible time: 14:00 to 15:00" is set as the photographing possible condition, photographing may be performed outside that time period. In the first embodiment, the camera 3 stores captured images in the memory card 31 (step S202).

Next, the process when returning the camera will be described with reference to FIG. When the user returns the camera 3, memory card 31, and tag 4 (step S301), the operator reads the rental information recorded on the tag 4 using the reading device 6 of the rental reception terminal 2 (step S302). The control unit 21 (condition acquisition unit 112) of the rental reception terminal 2 acquires photographing permission conditions from the read rental information (step S303). In step S303, the control unit 21 may display the read lending information on the display unit 25 for the operator's confirmation.

Next, when the operator inserts the memory card into the memory card slot of the rental reception terminal 2, the control unit 21 (image acquisition unit 211) of the rental reception terminal 2 acquires a captured image from the memory card 31 (step S304). The control unit 21 (image extraction unit 213) extracts an image that satisfies the photographic conditions acquired in step S303 from the photographed images acquired in step S304 (step S305).

In step S305, for example, if a time period in which photography is possible (time-related conditions) is set as a photography availability condition, the control unit 21 (image extraction unit 213) of the rental reception terminal 2 controls the It is determined whether the image was photographed during a photographable time period by referring to the photographing time information among the additional information (Exif). In addition, if shooting is allowed or not for each event is set as a shooting permission condition (condition related to an event), the control unit 21 (image extraction unit 213) of the rental reception terminal 2 sets the start time and end time of the event. Information is acquired from an event manager or an event management terminal (not shown), etc., and it is determined whether the time information (Exif) recorded in the captured image is between the event shooting start time and end time. By this, it is determined whether the photographing possible conditions are satisfied. In addition, if photography is allowed or not for each event is set as a photography permission condition, the control unit 21 (image extraction unit 213) of the rental reception terminal 2 performs image analysis processing on the photographed image, for example, It may be determined whether or not the photographing permission conditions are met by determining whether or not the event is photographed based on the performers and characters of the event shown in the image, the set of the event venue, etc. . In addition, if a condition related to a location is set as a photography possible condition, the control unit 21 (image extraction unit 213) of the rental reception terminal 2 determines the object in the image by image analysis processing. It can be determined whether the photograph was taken at a permitted location or whether the photograph was taken at a permitted location. Alternatively, the control unit 21 (image extraction unit 213) of the rental reception terminal 2 determines whether or not the shooting location satisfies the conditions for shooting, based on the latitude information and longitude information (Exif) recorded in the shot image. Good too.

By performing the process in step S305, images that are photographed without satisfying the photographing possible conditions among the photographed images acquired in step S304 are not extracted.

The control unit 21 (output unit 214) of the rental reception terminal 2 displays the image extracted in step S305 on the display unit 25 and also displays it on the monitor 5 (step S306). The user checks the image displayed on the monitor 5 and applies for photo printing. The operator transmits the images to the printer 7 according to the order submitted by the user, and prints out the required number of images (step S307). Note that the application for photo printing and the printing out may be performed by receiving an ordering operation by a user instead of by an operator's operation. For example, a touch panel type monitor is used as the monitor 5 to display the extracted image. At this time, the monitor 5 accepts input of images to be printed and the number of images. When an image is selected by the user's operation and a print instruction is input, the print instruction input from the monitor 5 is input to the control unit 21 of the rental reception terminal 2. The control unit 21 sends a photo print instruction to the printer 7 to print the photo.

As a result of the above processing, images photographed without satisfying the photographing possible conditions are not extracted by the processing of step S305 and are not output. Therefore, the operator of an event or the like can exclude the output of images taken without meeting the conditions for photographing, while allowing users to take photographs, and can efficiently manage photography. It should be noted that an image that has been photographed without satisfying the conditions for photographing may be displayed with a watermark, for example, or a mark indicating that the image cannot be displayed may be displayed. Alternatively, it may be possible to only view or may not be viewable (hidden). Furthermore, the system may be configured so that the operator can set options, such as being able to view or print images by paying an additional charge.

[Second embodiment]
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of an imaging control system 1A according to the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7, the photographing control system 1A of the second embodiment is configured such that a rental reception terminal 2, a rental camera 3, a server 9, etc. are communicatively connected via a network 10. Peripheral devices such as a monitor 5, a reading device 6, and a printer 7 are connected to the rental reception terminal 2. Further, it is assumed that the camera 3 is rented together with accessories such as a rental tag (storage medium) 4 and the like. The difference from the first embodiment is that the images taken with the camera 3 are sent to the server 9 instead of the memory card 31, and are sent to the image database of the server 9 (a storage unit 92 of the server 9 or a large database accessible from the server 9). (capacitive storage device, etc.).

The configuration of the rental reception terminal 2, camera 3, tag 4, monitor 5, reading device 6, and printer 7 is the same as that of the first embodiment. Since it is the same as that, duplicate explanation will be omitted.

The configuration of the server 9 is shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 8, the server 9 can be realized by a computer configured by connecting a control section 91, a storage section 92, a communication section 93, an input section 94, a display section 95, etc. via a bus 96. However, the configuration of the server 9 is not limited to this, and can take various configurations as appropriate.

The configuration of the control unit 91, storage unit 92, communication unit 93, input unit 94, and display unit 95 of the server 9 is the same as the control unit 21, storage unit 22, communication unit 23, input unit 24, and display unit of the rental reception terminal 2. Since the configuration is similar to that of No. 25, duplicate explanation will be omitted. The control unit 91 of the server is composed of a CPU, ROM, RAM, and the like. The CPU calls programs stored in the storage unit 92, ROM, recording medium, etc. to a work memory area on the RAM and executes them, and drives and controls each unit connected via the bus 96. The ROM permanently stores programs such as a computer boot program and BIOS, data, and the like. The RAM temporarily stores loaded programs and data, and also includes a work area used by the control unit 91 to perform various processes. The control unit 91 functions as each means of the server 9 by reading and executing the above programs.

The network 10 includes a LAN (Local Area Network), a WAN (Wide Area Network) connected for communication over a wider area, a public communication line such as the Internet, a base station, and the like. The network 10 may be wired or wireless.

Next, the functional configuration of the lending reception terminal 2 in the photographing control system 1A of the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
The rental reception terminal 2 includes an image acquisition section 211, a condition acquisition section 212, an image extraction section 213, and an output section 214. The difference from the functional configuration of the rental reception terminal 2 of the first embodiment (FIG. 3) is that the image acquisition unit 211 acquires an image taken by the camera 3 from the server 9. In the second embodiment, images taken by the camera 3 are transmitted to the server 9 by the communication function of the camera 3, and an image database of the server 9 (a storage unit 92 of the server 9 or a mass storage device accessible from the server 9) is used. etc.). The image acquisition unit 211 accesses the server 9 via the network 10 and acquires (downloads) an image taken by the camera 3 from the server 9.

The condition acquisition unit 212, image extraction unit 213, and output unit 214 are the same as the condition acquisition unit 212, image extraction unit 213, and output unit 214 of the first embodiment.

Next, the flow of processing in the second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11. The control unit 21 of the lending reception terminal 2 and the control unit 91 of the server 9 read and execute programs stored in the ROM or the storage units 22 and 92, thereby realizing each process described below.

The lending process executed by the lending reception terminal 2 when lending the camera 3 to a user is the same as that in the first embodiment (FIG. 4), and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

Next, the upload process of the photographed image shown in FIG. 10 will be explained.
The user can take pictures using the borrowed camera 3 (step S401 in FIG. 10). For example, even if "photography possible time: 14:00 to 15:00" is set as the photographing possible condition, photographing may be performed outside that time period. In the second embodiment, the camera 3 transmits the captured image together with the camera ID to the server 9 (step S402).

When the server 9 receives the photographed image and camera ID from the camera 3 (step S403), the server 9 associates the received photographed image with the camera ID and stores it in an image database (the storage unit 92 of the server 9 or a large capacity storage accessible from the server 9). device, etc.) (step S404).

Next, with reference to FIG. 11, the process when returning the camera according to the second embodiment will be described.
In the second embodiment, when the user returns the camera 3 and the tag 4 (step S501), the operator reads the rental information recorded on the tag 4 using the reading device 6 of the rental reception terminal 2 (step S501). S502). The control unit 21 (condition acquisition unit 112) of the rental reception terminal 2 acquires photographing permission conditions from the read rental information (step S503). In step S503, the control unit 21 may display the read rental information on the display unit 25 for the operator's confirmation.

Next, the control unit 21 (image acquisition unit 211) of the rental reception terminal 2 requests the server 9 to acquire (download) the image taken by the camera 3 (step S504). In step S504, the control unit 21 of the rental reception terminal 2 transmits the camera ID of the camera 3 and a download request for a captured image.

When the server 9 receives an image download request from the lending reception terminal 2, the server 9 reads the corresponding photographed image from the image database (storage unit 92 of the server 9 or a mass storage device accessible from the server 9, etc.) and sends the image to the request source. It is transmitted to the rental reception terminal 2 (step S505). The rental reception terminal 2 receives the photographed image from the server 9 (step S506).

Next, the control unit 21 (image extraction unit 213) of the rental reception terminal 2 extracts an image that satisfies the photographic conditions acquired in step S503 from the photographed images received in step S506 (step S507). In the process of step S507, similarly to step S305 of the first embodiment, it is determined whether the photographed image satisfies the photographing possible conditions based on additional information of the photographed image, image analysis processing, and the like.

After that, the control unit 21 (output unit 214) of the rental reception terminal 2 displays the image extracted in step S507 on the display unit 25 and also displays it on the monitor 5 (step S508). The user checks the image displayed on the monitor 5 and applies for photo printing. The operator transmits the images to the printer 7 according to the order submitted by the user, and prints out the required number of images (step S509). The processing in steps S508 and S509 is similar to steps S306 and S307 in the first embodiment.

Through the above processing, in the photographing control system 1A of the second embodiment, similarly to the first embodiment, images photographed without satisfying the photographing possible conditions are not extracted by the process of step S507, and are output. It will not be done. In the second embodiment, since images taken by the camera 3 are stored in the server 9, the memory card 31 is not used and there is no risk of loss. It should be noted that, as with the first embodiment, images that are photographed without satisfying the photographing possible conditions may be displayed with a watermark, for example, or with a mark indicating that they cannot be displayed. Alternatively, it may be possible to only view or may not be viewable (hidden). Furthermore, the system may be configured so that the operator can set options, such as being able to view or print images by paying an additional charge.

[Third embodiment]
Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 12 shows the configuration of a shooting control system 1B according to the third embodiment, and shows the shooting control system 1B that performs image output processing. As shown in FIG. 12, in the photographing control system 1B of the third embodiment, when outputting an image, the user operates the photo printing device 20 without using the rental reception terminal 2 where an operator is present. Output photo 8. It is assumed that at the time of camera lending, the camera 3, memory card 31, and tag 4 are being lent out at the lending reception terminal 2, as in the first embodiment (FIG. 4). Furthermore, it is assumed that images taken with a camera are also stored in the memory card 31, as in the first embodiment (FIG. 5).

The photo printing device 20 is a device that inputs orders for photos and the like and prints them.
The photo printing device 20 has a memory card slot, acquires an image from the memory card 31, displays an order screen for the acquired image on the touch panel display section 25, and accepts an order for the photo 8 through a user's operation. The photo printing device 20 prints the photo 8 according to the order specified by the user's operation, and discharges the photo from the print outlet.

The configuration of the photo printing device 20 is shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 13, the photo printing device 20 includes a control section 21, a storage section 22, a communication section 23, an input section 24, a display section 25, a peripheral device I/F section 26, a billing section 28, a printer 7, etc. It is configured by being connected by a bus 27. The reading device 6 is connected to the peripheral device I/F section 26 . However, the configuration of the photo printing device 20 is not limited to this, and can take various configurations as appropriate. The touch panel of the input section 24 is realized by a display with a touch panel, etc., which also serves as a display section and an input section. The display section of the touch panel displays various screens related to user operations and selections, and receives user input instructions and the like through touch operations on the screen.

The configuration of the control unit 21, storage unit 22, communication unit 23, input unit 24, display unit 25, and peripheral device I/F unit 26 of the photo printing device 20 is the control unit 21 of the rental reception terminal 2 shown in FIG. The configurations of the storage section 22, the communication section 23, the input section 24, the display section 25, and the peripheral device I/F section 26 are the same, so a redundant explanation will be omitted.

Similar to the reading device 6 connected to the rental reception terminal 2 of the first and second embodiments, the reading device 6 performs communication with the tag 4 according to a control signal from the control unit 21 of the photo printing device 20. A device that reads and writes information. Similar to the first and second embodiments, the tag 4 is lent out together with the camera 3 when the camera 3 is lent out, and is a storage medium in which rental information (shooting conditions, camera ID, etc.) is stored. . For example, an IC tag, an IC card, a memory card, a USB memory, etc. can be used. The reading device 6 is a reading device corresponding to the tag 4, and uses an IC card reader/writer. Further, when a memory card or a USB memory is used as the tag 4, the reading device 6 uses a memory card slot, a USB port, etc. of the lending reception terminal 2. Further, the tag 4 can be a paper medium. In this case, a two-dimensional code such as a QR code (registered trademark), a one-dimensional code such as a bar code, a color code, or the like is printed on the paper medium (tag 4) by the printer 7 or the like. In the case of paper media, the reading device 6 is a device that optically reads the code, such as a barcode reader or a camera.

The charging unit 28 includes a coin mech equipped with a deposit slot for coins and banknotes, a refund slot for change, etc., and an electronic money processing unit that performs payment processing using a prepaid card or electronic money. The coinmech outputs information regarding the amount deposited from the deposit slot to the control unit 21, and discharges coins and banknotes corresponding to the amount of change to the refund slot according to a control signal input from the control unit 21.

The printer 7 prints the photograph 8 on a predetermined sheet of paper according to the control signal input from the control section 21 . The printer 7 is a high-resolution color printer, and the printer type, such as sublimation type or melting type, does not matter.

Next, the functional configuration of the photo printing device 20 in the photographing control system 1B of the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 14.
The photo printing device 20 includes an image acquisition section 211, a condition acquisition section 212, an image extraction section 213, an output section 214, and the like.

The image acquisition unit 211 acquires an image photographed by the camera 3, similar to the image acquisition unit 211 of the rental reception terminal 2 of the first embodiment. In the third embodiment, it is assumed that images taken with the camera 3 are stored in the memory card 31. The image acquisition unit 211 acquires an image photographed by the camera 3 from the memory card 31.

The condition acquisition unit 212 acquires conditions for allowing photography with the rented camera 3. In the third embodiment, similarly to the first and second embodiments, it is assumed that the photographing enable conditions are stored in the tag 4, and the condition acquisition unit 212 determines whether the camera 3 can photograph from the tag 4. Read the conditions. In the third embodiment, when the user holds the tag 4 over the reading device 6 of the photo printing device 20 after returning the camera, the condition acquisition unit 212 of the photo printing device 20 obtains the conditions for allowing photography.

Note that, similar to the first and second embodiments, the conditions for allowing photography include conditions related to time, conditions related to events, conditions related to location, and the like. Further, conditions may be a combination of these.

Similar to the first and second embodiments, the image extraction unit 213 extracts images that satisfy the photographing possible conditions acquired by the condition acquisition unit 212 from the images acquired by the image acquisition unit 211.

The output unit 214 outputs the image extracted by the image extraction unit 213. For example, the display unit 25 of the photo printing device 20 displays an orderable display, or the printer 7 prints the photo 8 in response to an order operation from the user.

The lending process and the photographing process of the third embodiment are similar to the lending process (FIG. 4) and the photographing process (FIG. 5) of the first embodiment. Further, after the user returns the camera 3 to the operator, when the user operates the photo printing device 20, the photo printing device 20 executes the processes of steps S302 to S307 in FIG.

That is, when the user returns the borrowed camera 3, memory card 31, and tag 4 at the return counter (step S301 in FIG. 6), the memory card 31 and tag 4 are handed over to the user. The user goes to the photo printing device 20 and operates the photo printing device 20. First, the tag 4 is held over the reader 6 to read the rental information recorded on the tag 4 (step S302). The control unit 21 (condition acquisition unit 112) of the photo printing device 20 acquires photography permission conditions from the read rental information (step S303).

Next, the user inserts the memory card 31 into the memory card slot of the photo printing device 20. The control unit 21 (image acquisition unit 211) of the photo printing device 20 acquires a photographed image from the memory card 31 (step S304). The control unit 21 (image extraction unit 213) extracts an image that satisfies the photographic conditions acquired in step S303 from the photographed images acquired in step S304 (step S305). The extraction process in step S305 is the same as in the first and second embodiments.

The control unit 21 (output unit 214) of the photo printing device 20 displays the image extracted in step S304 on the display unit 25 in the form of an order reception screen (step S306). The user checks the image displayed on the display unit 25 (order reception screen) and orders a photo print. The control unit 21 transmits the images ordered by the user to the printer 7, and prints out the required number of images (step S307). Thereafter, the user returns the tag 4 and memory card 31 to the return counter. Note that the camera may also be returned at this timing.

Through the above processing, similarly to the first and second embodiments, images photographed without satisfying the photographing conditions are not extracted in the process of step S305 and are not output. In addition to the effects of the first and second embodiments, the third embodiment allows the user to order a photo after returning the camera by operating the photo printing device 20 without involving an operator. .

[Fourth embodiment]
Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 15 is a photographing control system 1C according to the fourth embodiment, and shows the configuration of the photographing control system 1C that performs image output processing. As shown in FIG. 15, in the photographing control system 1C of the fourth embodiment, similarly to the third embodiment, when outputting an image, the user operates the photo printing device 20 to output the photo 8. Note that when lending a camera, it is assumed that the lending reception terminal 2 lends out the camera 3 and the tag 4, as in the second embodiment (renting process in FIG. 4). Further, it is assumed that the image photographed by the camera 3 is stored in the server 9 similarly to the second embodiment (upload processing in FIG. 10). That is, the difference between the fourth embodiment and the third embodiment is that images taken with the camera 3 are stored in the server 9 instead of the memory card 31, and the photo printing device 20 acquires the images from the server 9. It is to be.

The photo printing device 20 of the fourth embodiment has the same configuration as the photo printing device 20 of the third embodiment (FIG. 13). However, in the fourth embodiment, the photo printing device 20 is connected to the server 9 via the network 10. Similar to the second embodiment, images shot with the camera 3 are uploaded to the server 9 through the shot image upload process (FIG. 10), and are linked to the camera ID and stored in the image database (storage unit 92 of the server 9). or a mass storage device accessible from the server 9).

Next, the functional configuration of the photo printing device 20 in the photographing control system 1C of the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 16. As shown in FIG. 16, the photo printing device 20 includes an image acquisition section 211, a condition acquisition section 212, an image extraction section 213, and an output section 214. The difference from the functional configuration of the photo printing device 20 of the third embodiment (FIG. 14) is that the image acquisition unit 211 acquires an image taken by a camera from the server 9. In the fourth embodiment, as described above, the images taken by the camera 3 are transmitted to the server 9 by the communication function of the camera 3, and the image database of the server 9 (accessible from the storage unit 92 of the server 9 and the server 9) is used. (such as a mass storage device). The image acquisition unit 211 accesses the server 9 via the network 10 and acquires (downloads) an image taken by the camera 3 from the server 9.

The condition acquisition unit 212, image extraction unit 213, and output unit 214 are the same as the condition acquisition unit 212, image extraction unit 213, and output unit 214 of the first to third embodiments.

Next, the flow of processing in the fourth embodiment of the present invention will be explained. The lending process in the fourth embodiment is similar to the lending process in the first embodiment (FIG. 4). Further, the photographing process in the fourth embodiment is similar to the photographed image uploading process (FIG. 10) in the second embodiment. Further, when the user operates the photo printing device 20 after returning the camera 3 to the operator, the photo printing device 20 and the server 9 execute the processes of steps S502 to S509 in FIG. 11.

That is, when the user returns the borrowed camera 3 and tag 4 at the return counter (step S501 in FIG. 11), the tag 4 is handed over to the user. The user goes to the photo printing device 20 and operates the photo printing device 20. First, the lending information recorded on the tag 4 is read by holding the tag over the reading device 6 (step S502). The control unit 21 (condition acquisition unit 112) of the photo printing device 20 acquires photography permission conditions from the read rental information (step S503).

Next, the photo printing device 20 requests the server 9 to acquire (download) the image taken by the camera 3 (step S504). In step S504, the control unit 21 of the photo printing device 20 transmits the camera ID of the camera 3 and a request to download the photographed image.

When the server 9 receives an image download request from the photo printing device 20, the server 9 reads the corresponding photographed image from the image database (storage unit 92 of the server 9 or a mass storage device accessible from the server 9, etc.) and sends the image to the request source. It is transmitted to the photo printing device 20 (step S505). The photo printing device 20 receives the photographed image from the server 9 (step S506).

Next, the control unit 21 (image extraction unit 213) of the photo printing device 20 extracts an image that satisfies the photographic conditions acquired in step S503 from the photographed images received in step S506 (step S507). In the process of step S507, similarly to step S305 of the first embodiment, it is determined whether the photographed image satisfies the photographing possible conditions based on additional information of the photographed image, image analysis processing, and the like.

Thereafter, the control unit 21 (output unit 214) of the photo printing device 20 displays the image extracted in step S507 on the display unit 25 (step S508). The user checks the image displayed on the display section 25 and applies for photo printing. The control unit 21 of the photo printing device 20 transmits images to the printer 7 in accordance with the order submitted by the user, and prints out the required number of images (step S509). The processing in steps S508 and S509 is similar to steps S306 and S307 in the first embodiment. After that, the user returns the tag 4 to the return counter. Note that the camera may also be returned at this timing.

Through the above processing, in the photographing control system 1C of the fourth embodiment, similarly to the first to third embodiments, images photographed without satisfying the photographing conditions are not extracted in the process of step S507. , it will not be output. In the fourth embodiment, since images taken by the camera 3 are stored in the server 9, the memory card 31 is not used and there is no risk of loss. Note that for images taken without satisfying the shooting conditions, the images may be displayed with a watermark, for example, or a mark indicating that they cannot be displayed, as in the first to third embodiments. Good too. Alternatively, it may be possible to only view or may not be viewable (hidden). Furthermore, the system may be configured so that the operator can set options, such as being able to view or print images by paying an additional charge. In addition to the effects of the first and second embodiments, the fourth embodiment allows the user to order a photo after it has been returned by operating the photo printing device 20 himself without involving an operator.

[Fifth embodiment]
Next, a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 17 shows the configuration of an imaging control system 1D according to the fifth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 17, the photographing control system 1D of the fifth embodiment includes a rental reception terminal 2 and a rental camera 3. Peripheral devices such as a monitor 5 and a printer 7 are connected to the rental reception terminal 2. Further, it is assumed that the camera 3 is lent together with a memory card 31 that stores photographed images. The difference between the fifth embodiment and the first embodiment is that in the photographing control system 1D of the fifth embodiment, the tag 4 and the reading device 6 are not used, and the rental information is sent to the B of the rental reception terminal 2. This is to obtain the information from the storage unit 22 of.

FIG. 18 shows the configuration of the lending reception terminal 2B of the fifth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 18, the rental reception terminal 2B is configured by connecting a control section 21, a storage section 22, a communication section 23, an input section 24, a display section 25, a peripheral device I/F section 26, etc. via a bus 27. It can be realized by computer. However, the configuration of the lending reception terminal 2B is not limited to this, and can take various configurations as appropriate. The configuration of the control unit 21, storage unit 22, communication unit 23, input unit 24, display unit 25, and peripheral device I/F unit 26 is the same as the control unit 21 and storage unit 22 of the rental reception terminal 2 of the first embodiment. , the communication section 23, the input section 24, the display section 25, and the peripheral device I/F section 26. In the fifth embodiment, a monitor 5 and a printer 7 are connected to the peripheral device I/F section 26 of the rental reception terminal 2 (the reading device 6 is not connected). The monitor 5 and printer 7 have the same configuration as the monitor 5 and printer 7 of the first embodiment.

Next, with reference to FIG. 19, the functional configuration of the lending reception terminal 2B in the photographing control system 1D of the fifth embodiment will be described.
The rental reception terminal 2B includes an image acquisition section 211, a condition acquisition section 212, an image extraction section 213, and an output section 214. Furthermore, lending information 221 is stored in the storage unit 22 of the lending reception terminal 2. The lending information 221 is input by the operator in the lending process. The rental information 221 includes a camera ID, shooting conditions, and the like. That is, in the first to fourth embodiments, the rental information 221 is recorded on the tag 4 and the tag 4 is rented out or returned together with the camera 3, but in the fifth embodiment, the rental information 221 is recorded on the tag 4, and the rental information 221 is recorded on the tag 4 to be rented out or returned together with the camera 3. Lending information 221 is stored in the storage unit 22 of 2B.

The image acquisition unit 211 acquires an image captured by the camera 3. In the fifth embodiment, it is assumed that images taken by the camera 3 are stored in the memory card 31. The image acquisition unit 211 acquires an image photographed by the camera 3 from the memory card 31.

The condition acquisition unit 212 acquires conditions for allowing photography with the rented camera 3. In the fifth embodiment, it is assumed that the photographing possible conditions are stored in the storage section 22 of the rental reception terminal 2B, and the condition acquisition section 212 retrieves the photographing possible conditions corresponding to the camera ID of the camera 3 from the storage section 22. Read out. The timing at which the condition acquisition unit 212 acquires the photographing enable conditions is, for example, when the user returns the camera 3.

Note that, similar to the first to fourth embodiments, the conditions for allowing photography include conditions related to time, conditions related to events, conditions related to location, and the like. Further, conditions may be a combination of these.

The image extracting unit 213 extracts from the images acquired by the image acquiring unit 211 an image that satisfies the photographing possible conditions acquired by the condition acquiring unit 212. Similar to the first to fourth embodiments, the method for extracting an image is, for example, based on additional information (Exif, etc.) recorded in the image taken by the camera 3, the image meets the conditions under which the image can be taken. A method of determining whether the image satisfies the photographing conditions, a method of determining whether the image photographed by the camera 3 satisfies the photographing possible conditions through image analysis processing, etc. can be used.

The output unit 214 outputs the image extracted by the image extraction unit 213, similarly to the first and second embodiments. The output format includes, for example, displaying on the monitor 5 or printing as a photograph 8 from the printer 7.

Next, the flow of processing in the fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 20 and 21. The control unit 21 of the lending reception terminal 2B reads and executes a program stored in the ROM or the storage unit 22, thereby realizing each process described below.

First, the lending process executed when lending the camera 3 to a user will be described with reference to FIG. 20.
A user applies for lending the camera 3 to the operator of the lending reception terminal 2B (step S601). The rental application may be made immediately before the camera 3 is rented out, or the application may be reserved in advance via the Internet, telephone, or the like.

When an application for rental is made, the operator uses the rental reception terminal 2B to perform user registration processing, and stores the rental information 221 including photographing permission conditions in the storage unit 22 (step S602). In the user registration process, for example, the user's name, date of birth, address, telephone number, and other contact information are registered, and a user ID is issued. Furthermore, the rental information 221 stored in the storage unit 22 records conditions such as the user's desired shooting time, event, or location, or conditions such as the time, event, or location that prohibits shooting. In addition, the user ID, rental date, identification information (camera ID) of the camera 3 to be rented, etc. are also included. As the rental information 221, for example, the camera ID "1234", the shooting conditions "shooting available time: 14:00 to 15:00", the user ID "u000543", etc. are stored in the storage unit 22.

When lending the camera 3 to a user, the operator performs lending processing (step S603). In the lending process, the operator verifies the user's identity, confirms the camera ID of the camera 3 to be lent, and confirms the shooting conditions and return date and time together with the user. Thereafter, the operator lends the camera 3 and the memory card 31 of the camera 3 to the user. Note that if the user brings his/her own camera, the user's camera shall be kept at the reception desk, or measures shall be taken to prevent the user from taking pictures with the user's camera.

The photographing process of the camera 3 is the same as in the first embodiment (FIG. 5). That is, the user can take pictures using the borrowed camera 3 (step S201 in FIG. 5). For example, even if "photography possible time: 14:00 to 15:00" is set as the photographing possible condition, photographing may be performed outside that time period. In the fifth embodiment, the camera 3 stores the captured image in the memory card 31 (step S202).

Next, the process when returning the camera will be described with reference to FIG. 21. When the user returns the camera 3 and the memory card 31 (step S701), the operator reads the rental information 221 corresponding to the camera ID of the returned camera 3 from the storage unit 22 of the rental reception terminal 2B (step S702). The control unit 21 (condition acquisition unit 112) of the rental reception terminal 2B acquires photographing permission conditions from the read rental information 221 (step S703). In step S703, the rental reception terminal 2 may display the read rental information 221 on the display unit 25 for the operator's confirmation.

Next, when the operator inserts a memory card into the memory card slot of the rental reception terminal 2, the control unit 21 (image acquisition unit 211) of the rental reception terminal 2B acquires a captured image from the memory card 31 of the camera 3 (step S704). ). The control unit 21 (image extraction unit 213) extracts an image that satisfies the photographic conditions acquired in step S703 from the photographed images acquired in step S704 (step S705). The process in step S705 is similar to the process in step S305 (FIG. 6) of the first embodiment. As a result of the process in step S705, among the captured images acquired in step S704, images that are captured without satisfying the photography possible conditions are not extracted.

The control unit 21 (output unit 214) of the rental reception terminal 2B displays the image extracted in step S705 on the display unit 25 and also displays it on the monitor 5 (step S706). The user checks the image displayed on the monitor 5 and applies for photo printing. The operator transmits the images to the printer 7 according to the order submitted by the user, and prints out the required number of images (step S707). Note that the application for photo printing and the printing out may be performed by a user's operation instead of an operator's operation. For example, a touch panel type monitor is used as the monitor 5 to display the extracted image. At this time, the monitor 5 accepts input of images to be printed and the number of images. When an image is selected by the user's operation and a print instruction is input, the print instruction input from the monitor 5 is input to the control unit 21 of the rental reception terminal 2B. The control unit 21 sends a photo print instruction to the printer 7 to print the photo.

As a result of the above processing, images photographed without satisfying the photographing possible conditions are not extracted by the processing of step S705 and are not output. Therefore, the operator of an event or the like can exclude the output of images taken without meeting the conditions for photographing, while allowing users to take photographs, and can efficiently manage photography. It should be noted that an image that has been photographed without satisfying the conditions for photographing may be displayed with a watermark, for example, or a mark indicating that the image cannot be displayed may be displayed. Alternatively, it may be possible to only view or may not be viewable (hidden). Furthermore, the system may be configured so that the operator can set options, such as being able to view or print images by paying an additional fee. Further, in the fifth embodiment, the rental information 221 is not recorded on the tag 4 but is stored in the storage unit 22 of the rental reception terminal 2B, so that the rental information 221 is 4 and reading device 6, the device configuration can be simplified. It is also possible to prevent the rental information 221 (photography permission conditions) from becoming unknown due to the tag 4 being lost.

[Sixth embodiment]
Next, a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 22 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of an imaging control system 1E according to the sixth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 22, the photographing control system 1E according to the sixth embodiment is configured such that a lending reception terminal 2B, a lending camera 3, a server 9, etc. are communicatively connected via a network 10. Peripheral devices such as a monitor 5 and a printer 7 are connected to the rental reception terminal 2B. In the fifth embodiment, since the tag 4 is not used, the reading device 6 is omitted, unlike the second embodiment. Furthermore, when renting out the rental camera 3, accessories such as the tag 4 and the memory card 31 are not required. The difference from the photographing control system 1D of the fifth embodiment is that the images photographed by the camera 3 are sent to the server 9 instead of the memory card 31, and are sent to the image database of the server 9 (the storage section 92 of the server 9 or the server 9). (a mass storage device, etc.) that can be accessed from

The configurations of the rental reception terminal 2B, camera 3, monitor 5, and printer 7 of the sixth embodiment are the same as those of the rental reception terminal 2, camera 3, monitor 5, and printer 7 of the fifth embodiment. Furthermore, the configurations of the server 9 and network 10 are similar to those of the second embodiment (FIG. 8).

Next, the functional configuration of the lending reception terminal 2B in the photographing control system 1E of the sixth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 23.
The rental reception terminal 2B includes an image acquisition section 211, a condition acquisition section 212, an image extraction section 213, and an output section 214. Further, similarly to the fifth embodiment, lending information 221 is stored in the storage unit 22 of the lending reception terminal 2B. The lending information 221 is input by the operator during the lending process. The rental information 221 includes a camera ID, shooting conditions, and the like.

The difference from the functional configuration of the rental reception terminal 2B of the fifth embodiment (FIG. 19) is that the image acquisition unit 211 acquires an image taken by the camera 3 from the server 9. In the sixth embodiment, images taken by the camera 3 are transmitted to the server 9 by the communication function of the camera 3, and an image database of the server 9 (a storage unit 92 of the server 9 or a mass storage device accessible from the server 9) is used. etc.). The image acquisition unit 211 accesses the server 9 via the network 10 and acquires an image taken by the camera 3 from the server 9.

The condition acquisition unit 212, image extraction unit 213, and output unit 214 are the same as those in the fifth embodiment.

Next, the flow of return processing in the sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 24. The control unit 21 of the lending reception terminal 2B and the control unit 91 of the server 9 read and execute programs stored in the ROM or the storage units 22 and 92, thereby realizing the processing described below.

Note that the lending process executed when lending the camera 3 to a user is the same as that in the fifth embodiment (FIG. 20), and the process of uploading images taken by the camera is similar to that in the second embodiment (FIG. 10). ), so the explanation will be omitted.

In the sixth embodiment, when the user returns the camera 3 (step S801), the operator reads the rental information 221 corresponding to the returned camera 3 from the storage unit 22 of the rental reception terminal 2B (step S802). The control unit 21 (condition acquisition unit 112) of the rental reception terminal 2B acquires photographing permission conditions from the read rental information 221 (step S803). In step S803, the control unit 21 may display the read rental information 221 on the display unit 25 for the operator's confirmation.

Next, the control unit 21 (image acquisition unit 211) of the lending reception terminal 2B requests the server 9 to acquire (download) the image taken by the camera 3 (step S804). In step S804, the control unit 21 of the rental reception terminal 2B transmits the camera ID of the camera 3 and a request to download the photographed image.

When the server 9 receives an image download request from the lending reception terminal 2B, the server 9 reads the corresponding photographed image from the image database (the storage unit 92 of the server 9 or a mass storage device accessible from the server 9, etc.), and It is transmitted to the rental reception terminal 2B (step S805). The rental reception terminal 2B receives the photographed image from the server 9 (step S806).

Next, the control unit 21 (image extraction unit 213) of the rental reception terminal 2B extracts an image that satisfies the photographic conditions acquired in step S803 from the photographed images received in step S806 (step S807). In the process of step S807, similarly to step S305 of the first embodiment, it is determined whether the photographed image satisfies the photographing possible conditions based on additional information of the photographed image, image analysis processing, etc.

Thereafter, the control unit 21 (output unit 214) of the rental reception terminal 2B displays the image extracted in step S807 on the display unit 25 and also displays it on the monitor 5 (step S808). The user checks the image displayed on the monitor 5 and applies for photo printing. The operator transmits the images to the printer 7 according to the order submitted by the user, and prints out the required number of images (step S809). The processing in steps S808 and S809 is similar to steps S306 and S307 in the first embodiment.

Through the above processing, in the photographing control system 1E of the sixth embodiment, similarly to the first to fifth embodiments, images photographed without satisfying the photographing possible conditions are extracted by the process of step S807. Therefore, it will not be output. In the sixth embodiment, since images taken by the camera 3 are stored in the server 9, the memory card 31 is not used and there is no risk of loss. Further, since neither the tag 4 nor the reading device 6 is used, the device configuration can be simplified. It is also possible to prevent the rental information 221 (photography permission conditions) from becoming unknown due to the tag 4 being lost.

It should be noted that, as with the first embodiment, images that are photographed without satisfying the photographing possible conditions may be displayed with a watermark, for example, or with a mark indicating that they cannot be displayed. Alternatively, it may be possible to only view or may not be viewable (hidden). Furthermore, the system may be configured so that the operator can set options, such as being able to view or print images by paying an additional fee.

[Seventh embodiment]
Next, a seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 25 shows the configuration of an imaging control system 1F according to the seventh embodiment. As shown in FIG. 25, in the photographing control system 1F of the seventh embodiment, when a user rents a camera 3, a rental slip 33 on which the camera ID and the like are written is given to the user at the reception desk. After returning the camera, the user operates the photo printing device 20A to output the photo 8 without using the rental reception terminal 2B where the operator is present. It is assumed that at the time of camera lending, the camera 3 and memory card 31 are being lent out at the lending reception terminal 2B, as in the fifth embodiment (FIG. 20). Further, it is assumed that the image photographed by the camera 3 is stored in the memory card 31 similarly to the first, third, and fifth embodiments (photographing process in FIG. 5).

The photo printing device 20A, like the photo printing device 20 of the third embodiment, is a device that inputs orders for photos and the like and prints them.
The photo printing device 20A has a memory card slot, acquires an image from the memory card 31, displays an order screen for the acquired image on the touch panel display section 25, and accepts an order for the photo 8 by a user's operation. The photo printing device 20A prints the photo 8 according to the order specified by the user's operation, and discharges the photo from the print outlet.
The difference from the photo printing device 20 of the third embodiment is that the reading device 6 is not provided and rental information 221 is stored in the storage unit 22 of the photo printing device 20A.

FIG. 26 shows the configuration of a photo printing apparatus 20A according to the seventh embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 26, the photo printing device 20A includes a control section 21, a storage section 22, a communication section 23, an input section 24, a display section 25, a peripheral device I/F section 26, a billing section 28, a printer 7, etc. They are connected by a bus 27. Unlike the photo printing device 20 of the third embodiment (FIG. 13), the reading device 6 is not connected to the peripheral device I/F unit 26. However, the configuration of the photo printing device 20A is not limited to this, and can take various configurations as appropriate.

The configuration of the control unit 21, storage unit 22, communication unit 23, input unit 24, display unit 25, and peripheral device I/F unit 26 of the photo printing device 20A is as follows. The configurations of the section 23, input section 24, display section 25, and peripheral device I/F section 26 are the same. Further, the configurations of the billing unit 28 and printer 7 of the photo printing device 20A are similar to those of the photo printing device 20 (FIG. 13) of the third embodiment, so a duplicate explanation will be omitted. .

Next, the functional configuration of the photo printing device 20A in the photographing control system 1F of the seventh embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 27. As shown in FIG. 27, the photo printing device 20A includes an image acquisition section 211, a condition acquisition section 212, an image extraction section 213, and an output section 214. Furthermore, the storage unit 22 of the photo printing device 20A stores rental information 221, similar to the storage unit 22 (FIG. 23) of the rental reception terminal 2B of the fifth and sixth embodiments.

The image acquisition section 211, image extraction section 213, and output section 214 are the same as those in the fifth embodiment.

The condition acquisition unit 212 acquires conditions for allowing photography with the rented camera 3. In the seventh embodiment, the photographing enable conditions (rental information 221) are stored in the storage unit 22 of the rental reception terminal 2B in the rental process when the camera 3 is rented, and are also transmitted to the server 9 and stored in the storage unit 22 of the rental reception terminal 2B. It is assumed that the information is stored in the storage unit 92. The data (rental information 221) stored in the storage section 92 of the server 9 is immediately transmitted to the photo printing device 20A and stored in the storage section 22 of the photo printing device 20A.

The photo printing device 20A accepts input of a camera ID by the user via the input unit 24. The user inputs the camera ID written on the rental slip 33 received at the reception desk when renting the camera 3 into the input section 24. Then, the condition acquisition unit 212 acquires the rental information 221 corresponding to the input camera ID from the storage unit 22, and reads out the photographing possible conditions.

Note that, similar to the first to sixth embodiments, the conditions for allowing photography include conditions related to time, conditions related to events, conditions related to location, and the like. Further, conditions may be a combination of these.

The image extracting unit 213 extracts from the images acquired by the image acquiring unit 211 an image that satisfies the photographing possible conditions acquired by the condition acquiring unit 212. Similar to the first to sixth embodiments, the method for extracting an image is, for example, based on additional information (Exif, etc.) recorded in the image taken by the camera 3, the image is extracted under conditions in which the image can be taken. A method of determining whether the image satisfies the conditions, a method of determining by image processing whether the image photographed by the camera 3 satisfies the conditions for photographing, etc. can be used.

The output unit 214 outputs the image extracted by the image extraction unit 213, similarly to the third and fourth embodiments. The output format includes, for example, displaying on the display unit 25 or printing as a photograph 8 from the printer 7.

Next, the flow of processing in the seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 28 and 29.
First, the lending process will be explained with reference to FIG. 28.
The user applies for rental of the camera 3 to the operator of the rental reception terminal 2B (step S901). The rental application may be made immediately before the camera 3 is rented out, or the application may be reserved in advance via the Internet, telephone, or the like.

When an application for rental is made, the operator uses the rental reception terminal 2B to perform user registration processing, and stores the rental information 221 including photography permission conditions in the storage unit 22 of the rental reception terminal 2B (step S902). . In the user registration process, for example, the user's name, date of birth, address, telephone number, and other contact information are registered, and a user ID is issued. In addition, the rental information 221 stored in the storage unit 22 records conditions such as time periods, events, or locations in which photography is allowed, or conditions such as time zones, events, or locations in which photography is prohibited. The user ID, rental date and time, identification information (camera ID) of the camera 3 to be lent, etc. are also included. For example, the camera ID "1234", the shooting possible condition "shooting available time: 14:00 to 15:00", the user ID "u000543", etc. are stored in the storage unit 22 as the rental information 221.

The rental reception terminal 2B transmits the rental information 221 stored in the storage unit 22 to the server 9 (step S903). The server 9 receives the rental information 221 and stores it in the storage unit 92 (step S904), and transmits the rental information 221 to the photo printing device 20A (step S905). The photo printing device 20A receives the lending information 221 from the server 9 and stores it in the storage unit 22 (step S906).

The rental reception terminal 2B issues a rental slip 33 in which the camera ID is written. The operator hands the rental slip 33 to the user (step S907).

When lending a camera to a user, the operator performs lending processing (step S908). In the lending process, the operator verifies the user's identity, confirms the camera ID of the camera 3 to be lent, and confirms the shooting conditions and return date and time together with the user. Thereafter, the operator lends the camera 3 and the memory card 31 of the camera 3 to the user, and also hands over a lending slip 33. Note that if the user brings his/her own camera, the user's camera shall be kept at the reception desk, or measures shall be taken to prevent the user from taking pictures with the user's camera.

The photographing process by the camera 3 is the same as that in the first embodiment (FIG. 5). That is, the user can take pictures using the borrowed camera 3 (step S201 in FIG. 5). For example, even if "photography possible time: 14:00 to 15:00" is set as the photographing possible condition, photographing may be performed outside that time period. In the first embodiment, the camera 3 stores captured images in the memory card 31 (step S202).

Next, processing after the camera is returned will be described with reference to FIG. 29. After returning the camera 3, the user takes the rental slip 33 and the memory card 31 and outputs the photo using the photo printing device 20A. The photo printing device 20A downloads the rental information 221 of each camera from the server 9 through the processing of steps S903 to S906 in the flowchart of FIG. 28, and stores it in the storage unit 22 (step S1001).

After returning the camera (step S1002), the user goes to the photo printing device 20A and inputs the camera ID written on the rental slip 33 into the photo printing device 20A via the input unit 24 (step S1003). The control unit 21 (condition acquisition unit 212) of the photo printing device 20A reads the rental information 221 corresponding to the input camera ID from the storage unit 22, and acquires the conditions for allowing photography from the read rental information 221 (step S1004). .

Next, the control unit 21 (image acquisition unit 211) of the photo printing device 20A acquires a photographed image from the memory card 31 of the camera 3 (step S1005). The control unit 21 (image extraction unit 213) of the photo printing device 20A extracts an image that satisfies the photographic conditions acquired in step S1004 from the photographed images acquired in step S1005 (step S1006).
The process in step S1006 is similar to the process in step S305 (FIG. 6) of the first embodiment. Through the processing in step S1006, images that are photographed without satisfying the photographing possible conditions are not extracted.

The control unit 21 (output unit 214) of the photo printing device 20A displays the image extracted in step S1006 on the display unit 25 (step S1007). The user checks the image displayed on the display section 25 and applies for photo printing. The control unit 21 of the photo printing device 20A transmits the images requested by the user to the printer 7, and prints out the required number of images (step S1008).

Through the above processing, in the photographing control system 1F of the seventh embodiment, similarly to the first to sixth embodiments, images photographed without satisfying the photographing conditions are not extracted in the process of step S1006. , it will not be output. Therefore, the operator of an event or the like can exclude the output of images taken without meeting the conditions for photographing, while allowing users to take photographs, and can efficiently manage photography. It should be noted that images taken without satisfying the conditions for photographing may be made only viewable. It may also be possible to set options such as being able to view or print images by paying a fee. Further, in the seventh embodiment, the rental information 221 of each camera 3 is stored in the storage unit 22 of the photo printing device 20A instead of recording the rental information 221 on the tag 4. There is no need to prepare a tag 4 or a reading device 6 as in the embodiment described above, and the device configuration can be simplified. It is also possible to prevent rental information (photography permission conditions) from becoming unknown due to loss of the tag 4. Further, the user can order a photo after returning the camera by operating the photo printing device 20A by himself/herself without using an operator.

[Eighth embodiment]
Next, an eighth embodiment of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 30 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of an imaging control system 1G according to the eighth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 30, a photographing control system 1G according to the eighth embodiment includes a rental reception terminal 2B, a rental camera 3, a server 9, a photo printing device 20A, etc., which are communicatively connected via a network 10. be done. As shown in FIG. 30, in the photographing control system 1G of the eighth embodiment, when a user rents a camera 3, a rental slip 33 on which the camera ID and the like are written is given to the user at the reception desk. After returning the camera, the user operates the photo printing device 20A to output the photo 8 without using the rental reception terminal 2B where the operator is present. Note that when lending a camera, accessories such as the tag 4 and the memory card 31 are not required, similar to the sixth embodiment. Since the tag 4 is not used, the reader 6 for the tag 4 is also omitted. The difference from the photographing control system 1F of the seventh embodiment is that in the photographing control system 1G of the eighth embodiment, images photographed by the camera 3 are sent to the server 9 instead of the memory card 31. It is to be stored in the storage unit 92 of.

The photo printing device 20A of the eighth embodiment has the same configuration as the photo printing device 20A of the seventh embodiment (FIG. 26). However, in the eighth embodiment, the photo printing device 20A is connected to the server 9 via the network 10. Similar to the second embodiment, images shot with the camera 3 are uploaded to the server 9 through the shot image upload process (FIG. 10), and are linked to the camera ID and stored in the image database (storage unit 92 of the server 9). or a mass storage device accessible from the server 9).

Next, the functional configuration of the photo printing device 20A in the photographing control system 1G of the eighth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 31. As shown in FIG. 31, the photo printing device 20A includes an image acquisition section 211, a condition acquisition section 212, an image extraction section 213, and an output section 214. Further, in the storage unit 22 of the photo printing device 20A, rental information 221 is stored, as in the fifth to seventh embodiments.

The image acquisition section 211, image extraction section 213, and output section 214 are the same as the image acquisition section 211, image extraction section 213, and output section 214 of the sixth embodiment. The image acquisition unit 211 acquires a photographed image from the server 9.

The condition acquisition unit 212 acquires conditions for allowing photography with the rented camera 3. In the eighth embodiment, the photographing permission conditions are stored in the storage section 22 of the rental reception terminal 2B at the time of lending in the lending process, and are also transmitted to the server 9 and stored in the storage section 92 of the server 9. do. The data (rental information 221) stored in the storage section 92 of the server 9 is transmitted to the photo printing device 20A and stored in the storage section 22 of the photo printing device 20A.

The photo printing device 20A accepts input of a camera ID via the input unit 24. The user inputs the camera ID written on the rental slip 33 received at the reception desk when renting the camera 3 into the input section 24 of the photo printing device 20A. Then, the condition acquisition unit 212 acquires the rental information 221 corresponding to the input camera ID from the storage unit 22, and reads out the photographing possible conditions.

Note that, similar to the first to seventh embodiments, the conditions for allowing photography include conditions related to time, conditions related to events, conditions related to location, and the like. Further, conditions may be a combination of these.

The image extracting unit 213 extracts from the images acquired by the image acquiring unit 211 an image that satisfies the photographing possible conditions acquired by the condition acquiring unit 212. Similar to the first to seventh embodiments, the method for extracting an image is, for example, based on additional information (Exif, etc.) recorded in the image taken by the camera 3, the image is extracted under conditions that allow the image to be taken. A method of determining whether the image satisfies the photographing conditions, a method of determining whether the image photographed by the camera 3 satisfies the photographing possible conditions through image analysis processing, etc. can be used.

The output unit 214 outputs the image extracted by the image extraction unit 213, similarly to the third, fourth, and seventh embodiments. The output format includes, for example, displaying on the display unit 25 or printing as a photograph 8 from the printer 7.

Next, the flow of processing in the eighth embodiment of the present invention will be explained. Note that the lending process is the same as that in the seventh embodiment (FIG. 28), so a description thereof will be omitted. Further, the upload process of the image taken by the camera 3 is the same as in the second, fourth, and sixth embodiments (FIG. 10), and the image taken by the camera 3 is uploaded to the image database of the server 9 ( The information is stored in a storage unit 92 or a large capacity storage device accessible from the server 9, etc.).

Next, processing after the camera is returned will be described with reference to FIG. 32. After returning the camera 3, the user takes the rental slip 33 and outputs the photo using the photo printing device 20A. The photo printing device 20A downloads the rental information 221 of each camera from the server 9 through the processing of steps S903 to S906 in the flowchart of FIG. 28, and stores it in the storage unit 22 (steps S1101 and S1102).

After returning the camera 3 (step S1103), the user goes to the photo printing device 20A and inputs the camera ID written on the rental slip 33 into the photo printing device 20A via the input unit 24 (step S1104). The control unit 21 (condition acquisition unit 212) of the photo printing device 20A reads the rental information 221 corresponding to the input camera ID from the storage unit 22, and acquires the conditions for allowing photography from the read rental information 221 (step S1105). .

Next, the control unit 21 (image acquisition unit 211) of the photo printing device 20A requests the server 9 to download the photographed image (step S1106). In step S1106, the photo printing device 20A transmits a download request for the photographed image to the server 9 together with the camera ID input in step S1104. In response to the download request sent from the photo printing device 20A, the server 9 reads the corresponding photographed image from the storage unit 92 (or a mass storage device accessible from the server 9) and sends it to the requesting photo printing device 20A. Transmit (step S1107).

When the photographed image is received from the server 9 (step S1108), the control unit 21 (image extraction unit 213) of the photo printing device 20A extracts an image that satisfies the photographing possible conditions acquired in step S1105 from the received photographed image (step S1108). S1109). The process in step S1109 is similar to the process in step S305 (FIG. 6) of the first embodiment. As a result of the process in step S1109, images that are photographed without satisfying the photographing possible conditions will not be extracted.

The control unit 21 of the photo printing device 20A displays the image extracted in step S1109 on the display unit 25 (step S1110). The user checks the image displayed on the display section 25 and applies for photo printing. The control unit 21 of the photo printing device 20A transmits the images requested by the user to the printer 7, and prints out the required number of images (step S1111).

Through the above processing, in the photographing control system 1G of the eighth embodiment, similarly to the first to seventh embodiments, images photographed without satisfying the photographing conditions are not extracted in the process of step S1109. , it will not be output. Therefore, the operator of an event or the like can exclude the output of images taken without meeting the conditions for photographing, while allowing users to take photographs, and can efficiently manage photography. It should be noted that, as with the first embodiment, images that are photographed without satisfying the photographing possible conditions may be displayed with a watermark, for example, or with a mark indicating that they cannot be displayed. Alternatively, it may be possible to only view or may not be viewable (hidden). Furthermore, the system may be configured so that the operator can set options, such as being able to view or print images by paying an additional charge. Furthermore, in the eighth embodiment, it is necessary to prepare the tag 4 and the reading device 6 in order to store the rental information 221 in the storage unit 22 of the photo printing device 20A instead of recording the rental information 221 in the tag 4. There is no need for this, and the device configuration can be simplified compared to the first to fourth embodiments. It is also possible to prevent the rental information 221 (photography permission conditions) from becoming unknown due to the tag 4 being lost. Further, since images taken with the camera 3 are also stored in the server 9, there is no need to lend out the memory card 31, and loss of the memory card 31 can be prevented. After the camera is returned, the user can also order a photo by operating the photo printing device 20A without involving an operator.

[Ninth embodiment]
Next, a ninth embodiment of the present invention will be described.
The photographing control system 1H of the ninth embodiment, unlike the first to eighth embodiments, controls photographing by the camera 3 using a photographing control signal.

FIG. 33 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of an imaging control system 1H according to the ninth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 33, the photographing control system 1H according to the ninth embodiment is configured such that a rental reception terminal 2C, a rental camera 3, and a server 9 are communicatively connected via a network 10. Peripheral devices such as a monitor 5, a printer 7, and a transmitter 12 that transmits a photographing control signal are connected to the rental reception terminal 2C. Further, it is assumed that the rental camera 3 is rented together with a memory card 31 that stores photographed images.

The rental reception terminal 2C is a computer used to perform the rental processing of the camera 3 and the output processing of photographed images, and, like the rental reception terminal 2 of the first embodiment, includes, for example, a control section 21, a storage section 22, a communication section 23, an input section 24, a display section 25, a peripheral device I/F (interface) section 26, etc. can be realized by a computer configured by connecting them via a bus 27. It is assumed that the monitor 5, the printer 7, and the transmitter 12 are connected to the peripheral device I/F section 26. However, the configuration of the lending reception terminal 2C is not limited to this, and can take various configurations as appropriate.

The camera 3 is a digital camera lent to a user, and is, for example, a camera using an image sensor such as a CCD image sensor or a CMOS image sensor. Images taken by the camera 3 are stored in a memory card 31 that is lent together with the camera 3. Alternatively, the photographed image may be uploaded to the server 9 via the network 10 using the communication function of the camera 3, and the captured image may be stored in an image database or the like of the server 9 (see FIGS. 7 and 15). It is also assumed that the camera 3 includes a receiver 311 that receives the photographing control signal 13 (FIG. 34).

The server 9 can be realized by a computer configured by connecting a control section 91, a storage section 92, a communication section 93, an input section 94, a display section 95, etc. via a bus 96 (FIG. 8). When the server 9 receives the captured image and camera ID from the camera 3, the server 9 associates the received captured image with the camera ID and stores it in an image database (storage unit 92 of the server 9 or a mass storage device accessible from the server 9, etc.). Remember.

The network 10 includes a LAN, a WAN connected for communication over a wider area, a public communication line such as the Internet, a base station, and the like. The network 10 may be wired or wireless.

The transmitter 12 is a transmitter that transmits a photographing control signal generated by the rental reception terminal 2C. As the transmitter 12, for example, a Wi-Fi router or a beacon that transmits a Bluetooth (registered trademark) signal can be used.

Next, the functional configuration of the rental reception terminal 2C and the camera 3 in the photographing control system 1H of the ninth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
As shown in FIG. 34, the rental reception terminal 2C of the ninth embodiment includes a rental information registration section 215, a photography permission signal generation section 216, a photography permission signal transmission control section 217, an image acquisition section 211, and an output section 214. Equipped with etc.

The rental information registration unit 215 registers (stores) rental information in the storage unit 22 when the camera 3 is rented out. The rental information is information in which at least the camera ID and the conditions for allowing photography are linked to the user ID of the user who lends the camera.

The photographing permission/prohibition signal generation unit 216 generates and transmits a photographing control signal, which is a signal indicating whether photographing is permitted or not according to the photographing possible conditions using the rented camera 3. The photography possible conditions include conditions regarding time, event, or location. Alternatively, the conditions may be a combination of these conditions. Specifically, for example, if the condition is set that "the camera with camera ID 'c3579' can take pictures during the time period '15:00 to 16:00'", the photographing permission signal generation unit 216 uses the camera ID It generates a photographing enable signal for the camera "c3579" and notifies the photographing enable/disable signal transmission control unit 217 to transmit the photographing enable signal between 15:00 and 16:00. The photographing permission/prohibition signal transmission control section 217 controls the photographing control signal generated by the photographing permission/prohibition signal generation section 216 to be transmitted during the notified time period. Thereby, the transmitter 12 can transmit a photographing control signal to a predetermined camera 3 during a predetermined time period.

Furthermore, for example, when the condition is set that "the camera with the camera ID "c3579" can take pictures in the event "15:00 to 16:00"", similarly, the photographing permission signal generation unit 216 generates the photograph with the camera ID "c3579" c3579'' camera, and notifies the photography permission signal transmission control unit 217 to transmit the photographing permission signal between 15:00 and 16:00. The photographing permission signal transmission control unit 217 controls the transmitter 12 to transmit the photographing control signal generated by the photographing permission signal generating unit 216 during the notified time period. Thereby, the transmitter 12 can transmit a photographing control signal to a predetermined camera 3 at a predetermined event.

For example, if a condition is set such that "the camera with camera ID "c3579" can take pictures in area A", the photographing permission signal generation unit 216 generates a photographing permission signal for the camera with camera ID "c3579". , notifies the photographing permission signal transmission control unit 217 to transmit a photographing possible signal using the transmitter 12 that transmits the signal to area A. The photographing permission/prohibition signal transmission control section 217 controls the transmitter 12 to transmit the photographing control signal generated by the photographing permission/prohibition signal generation section 216 to the notified area. Thereby, the transmitter 12 can transmit a photographing control signal to a predetermined camera 3 in a predetermined area.

Note that it is also possible to set shooting enable conditions that combine a location and time, or a location and an event. Furthermore, the photographing permission/prohibition signal generation unit 216 and the photographing permission/prohibition signal transmission control unit 217 generate a photographing prohibition signal that controls photographing to be prohibited during a predetermined time period or a predetermined location, instead of the photographing permission signal that enables photographing. It is also possible to transmit the information. The photographing enable signal and the photographing disable signal are collectively referred to as a photographing control signal or a photographing permission signal.

Furthermore, the photographing permission signal generation unit 216 may generate a photographing control signal specific to an event or area, and transmit the event-specific or area-specific photographing control signal during the event or in a predetermined area. In this case, the camera 3 stores information corresponding to event-specific or area-specific photography control signals, and determines whether photography is possible or not depending on which photography control signal is received.

The image acquisition unit 211 acquires an image captured by the camera 3. If the image taken by the camera 3 is stored in the memory card 31, the image acquisition unit 211 acquires the image taken by the camera 3 from the memory card 31. In addition, if the image taken by the camera 3 is transmitted to the server 9 by the communication function of the camera 3 and stored in the storage unit 92 of the server 9 or a mass storage device accessible from the server 9, the image acquisition unit 211 accesses the server 9 via the network 10 and obtains an image taken by the camera 3 from the server 9.

The output unit 214 outputs the image acquired by the image acquisition unit 211. The output format includes, for example, displaying on the monitor 5 or printing as a photograph 8 from the printer 7. Unlike the first to eighth embodiments, all images acquired by the image acquisition unit 211 can be output. This is because, since the photographing by the camera 3 is controlled by the photographing control signal, all of the photographed images satisfy the photographable conditions, and there is no image that does not satisfy the photographable conditions.

The camera 3 of the ninth embodiment includes a receiver 311, a photography permission control section 312, and a photography section 313, as shown in FIG.
The receiver 311 is a receiver corresponding to the transmitter 12, and receives the photographing control signal (photographing enable signal or photographing disable signal) transmitted from the transmitter 12.

The photography permission control unit 312 determines whether photography is possible or not based on the photography control signal received by the receiver 311. If photographing is permitted, a control signal for permitting photographing is transmitted to the photographing section 313, and a control signal for disallowing photographing is transmitted to the photographing section 313.

The photographing section 313 performs photographing according to the control signal transmitted from the photographing permission control section 312.

Next, the flow of processing in the ninth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 35 to 37. The control unit 21 of the lending reception terminal 2C reads and executes a program stored in the ROM or the storage unit 22, thereby realizing each process described below.

First, the lending process executed when lending the camera 3 to a user will be described with reference to FIG. 35.

The user applies for lending the camera 3 to the operator of the lending reception terminal 2C (step S1201). The rental application may be made immediately before the camera 3 is rented out, or the application may be reserved in advance via the Internet, telephone, or the like.

When an application for rental is made, the operator uses the rental reception terminal 2C to perform user registration processing and records rental information including photographing permission conditions in the storage unit 22 (step S1202). In the user registration process, for example, the user's name, date of birth, address, telephone number, and other contact information are registered, and a user ID is issued. In addition, the rental information recorded in the storage unit 22 includes conditions such as time periods, events, or locations in which photography is allowed, or conditions such as time zones, events, or locations in which photography is prohibited. The ID, lending date and time, identification information (camera ID) of the camera 3 to be lent, etc. are also included. For example, the camera ID "1234", the shooting possible condition "shooting allowed time: 14:00 to 15:00", the user ID "u000543", etc. are stored in the storage unit 22 as rental information.

When lending the camera 3 to a user, the operator performs lending processing (step S1203). In the lending process, the operator verifies the user's identity, confirms the camera ID of the camera 3 to be lent, and confirms the shooting conditions and return date and time together with the user. Thereafter, the operator lends the camera 3 and the memory card 31 of the camera 3 to the user. When storing photographed images in the server 9, it is not necessary to lend out the memory card 31. Note that if the user brings his/her own camera, the user's camera shall be kept at the reception desk, or measures shall be taken to prevent the user from taking pictures with the user's camera.

The rental reception terminal 2C generates a photographing control signal according to the photographing enable conditions, and controls the transmitter 12 to transmit the photographing control signal at a predetermined time, at a predetermined event, or at a predetermined location (step S1204).

Next, the processing shown in the flowchart of FIG. 36 will be explained.
The user can take pictures using the borrowed camera 3. When the power of the camera 3 is set to "ON", the receiver 311 receives the photographing control signal transmitted from the transmitter 12 (step S1301). The control unit of the camera 3 determines whether the photographing control signal received by the receiver 311 indicates that photographing is possible (step S1302). If photographing is possible (step S1302; photographing is possible), the control unit 21 of the camera 3 permits photographing, and performs photographing according to the user's operation (step S1303). The control section of the camera 3 saves the photographed image in the memory card 31 or transmits it to the server 9 via the communication section and saves it in the storage section 22 of the server 9 or a mass storage device accessible from the server 9 (step S1304).

Next, the return process will be explained with reference to FIG. 37. When the user returns the camera 3 and the memory card 31 (the memory card 31 is not required if the images are stored in the server 9) (step S1401), the operator uses the rental reception terminal 2C to restore the memory card 31 of the camera 3. Obtain the captured image from. If the memory card 31 is not lent out, the lending reception terminal 2C accesses the server 9 and downloads the photographed image (step S1402).

The rental reception terminal 2C displays the captured image acquired in step S1402 on the display unit 25 and also displays it on the monitor 5 (step S1403). The user checks the image displayed on the monitor 5 and applies for photo printing. The operator transmits the images requested by the user to the printer 7, and prints out the required number of images (step S1404). Note that the application for photo printing and the printing out may be performed by a user's operation instead of an operator's operation. For example, a touch panel type monitor is used as the monitor 5 to display images and accept input of images to be printed and the number of images. When an image is selected and a print instruction is input by the user's operation, the print instruction input from the monitor 5 is input to the control unit 21 of the rental reception terminal 2C, and the control unit 21 causes the printer 7 to print the photo. Send instructions and print photos.

Through the above processing, in the photographing control system 1H of the ninth embodiment, photographing with the rented camera 3 is controlled by the photographing control signal, so that photographing is not performed outside the photographing possible conditions. Therefore, the operator of an event or the like can control the user's photography in such a way that the conditions for allowing photography are always met, and thus can efficiently manage photography.

[Tenth embodiment]
Next, a tenth embodiment of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 38 shows the configuration of an imaging control system 1J according to the tenth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 38, the photographing control system 1J according to the tenth embodiment is configured such that a rental reception terminal 2D, a rental camera 3, a server 9, and a photo printing device 20B are communicatively connected via a network 10. Ru. A transmitter 12 that transmits a photographing control signal 13 is connected to the rental reception terminal 2D.

In the photography control system 1J of the tenth embodiment, the user operates the photo printing device 20B to output the photo 8 without using the rental reception terminal 2D where an operator is present when returning the camera. Note that when lending a camera, the camera 3 and memory card 31 (memory card 31 is not required when saving images on the server 9) are lent at the lending reception terminal 2D, as in the ninth embodiment. (Figure 33). Further, it is assumed that images taken by the camera 3 are also stored in the memory card 31 or the server 9, similar to the ninth embodiment.

The photo printing device 20B is a device for inputting and printing orders for photos and the like. The photo printing device 20B has a memory card slot and acquires images from the memory card 31. Alternatively, the photo printing device 20B is connected to the server 9 via the network 10, and the image is stored in an image database (storage unit 92 of the server 9 or a mass storage device accessible from the server 9) in association with the camera ID. Get the image that is. The photo printing device 20B displays an order screen for the acquired image on the touch panel display section 25, and accepts an order for the photo 8 by the user's operation. The photo printing device 20B prints the photo 8 according to the order specified by the user's operation, and discharges the photo from the print outlet.

Next, with reference to FIG. 39, the functional configuration of the lending reception terminal 2D, the photo printing device 20B, and the camera 3 in the photographing control system 1J of the tenth embodiment will be described.
As shown in FIG. 39, the rental reception terminal 2D of the tenth embodiment includes a rental information registration section 215, a photographing permission/prohibition signal generation section 216, and a photographing permission/prohibition signal transmission control section 217. The photo printing device 20B includes an image acquisition section 211, an output section 214, and the like. The camera 3 includes a receiver 311, a photography permission control section 312, and a photography section 313, as in the ninth embodiment.

The rental information registration unit 215, the photography permission signal generation unit 216, and the photography permission signal transmission control unit 217 of the rental reception terminal 2D are the same as the rental information registration unit 215, the photography permission signal generation unit of the rental reception terminal 2C of the ninth embodiment. 216 and the photographing permission signal transmission control section 217, so a redundant explanation will be omitted. Furthermore, the image acquisition unit 211 and output unit 214 of the photo printing device 20B are similar to the image acquisition unit 211 and output unit 214 in the lending reception terminal 2C of the ninth embodiment. However, the output form of the output unit 214 is photo printing from the printer 7 or display on the display unit 25.

Next, the flow of processing in the imaging control system 1J according to the tenth embodiment will be explained.

The lending process of the camera 3 is similar to the lending process of the ninth embodiment (FIG. 35). That is, the user applies for lending the camera 3 to the operator of the lending reception terminal 2D (step S1201). When an application for rental is made, the operator uses the rental reception terminal 2D to perform user registration processing and records rental information including photographing permission conditions in the storage unit 22 (step S1202). When lending a camera to a user, the operator performs lending processing (step S1203). In the lending process, the operator verifies the user's identity, confirms the camera ID of the camera 3 to be lent, and confirms the shooting conditions and return date and time together with the user. Thereafter, the operator lends the camera 3 and the memory card 31 of the camera 3 to the user. When storing photographed images in the server 9, it is not necessary to lend out the memory card 31. Note that if the user brings his/her own camera, the user's camera shall be kept at the reception desk, or measures shall be taken to prevent the user from taking pictures with the user's camera.

The rental reception terminal 2D generates a photographing control signal according to the photographing enable conditions, and controls the transmitter 12 to transmit the photographing control signal at a predetermined time, at a predetermined event, or at a predetermined location (step S1204).

The photographing process by the camera 3 is also the same as in the ninth embodiment (FIG. 36). That is, when the power of the camera 3 is set to "ON", the receiver 311 receives the photographing control signal 13 transmitted from the transmitter 12 (step S1301). The control unit of the camera 3 determines whether the photographing control signal 13 received by the receiver 311 indicates that photographing is possible (step S1302). If photographing is possible (step S1302; photographing is possible), the control unit 21 of the camera 3 permits photographing, and performs photographing according to the user's operation (step S1303). The control unit of the camera stores the photographed image in the memory card 31 or transmits it to the server 9 via the communication unit and stores it in the storage unit 22 of the server 9 or a mass storage device accessible from the server 9 (step S1304 ).

When the user finishes taking pictures with the camera 3, the user returns the camera 3 at the reception desk. If the memory card 31 is also borrowed, the user receives the memory card 31, goes to the photo printing device 20B, and operates the photo printing device 20B. If the images are stored on the server 9, a rental slip 33 containing the camera ID is received at the reception desk. The user goes to the photo printing device 20B with the rental slip 33 and operates the photo printing device 20B (step S1401 in FIG. 37).

In the photo printing device 20B, the user inserts the memory card 31 into the memory card slot to obtain a photographed image. Alternatively, the camera ID written on the rental slip 33 is input via the input unit 24. Then, the control unit 21 accesses the server 9 and downloads from the server 9 the photographed image corresponding to the input camera ID.

The rental reception terminal 2D displays the captured image acquired in step S1402 on the display unit 25 (step S1403). The user checks the image displayed on the display section 25 and applies for photo printing. The control unit 21 of the photo printing device 20B transmits the images requested by the user to the printer 7, and prints out the required number of images (step S1404).

As explained above, according to the photographing control system 1J of the tenth embodiment, similarly to the photographing control system 1H of the ninth embodiment, since photographing by the camera 3 is controlled by the photographing control signal, Photography is not performed outside the photographing possible conditions. Therefore, the operator of an event or the like can control the user's photography in such a way that the conditions for allowing photography are always met, and thus can efficiently manage photography. Further, the user can print a photo by himself using the photo printing device 20B.

Note that in the first to tenth embodiments, the image output method is displaying on the monitor 5 or display unit 25, or printing the photograph 8, but is not limited to these methods. For example, a photo book may be created using captured images, or image data may be downloaded to a user's terminal (smartphone, PC, etc.). In the case of a photobook, the user uses a photobook creation app or logs into a photobook creation website, and uploads captured images (in the first to eighth embodiments, images extracted based on the conditions that allow photography). Create the desired photobook data using A photobook is printed at a printing factory or the like based on the created photobook data and delivered to the user. If the image data can be downloaded, the rental reception terminal 2, 2B, 2C, 2D or the server 9 uploads the data of the photographed image to a server such as a tourist spot application or an image server and passes an authentication code etc. to the user. , the user uses the authentication code to access those servers and download the images.

Although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, the present invention is not limited to such examples. It is clear that those skilled in the art can come up with various changes or modifications within the scope of the technical idea disclosed in this application, and these naturally fall within the technical scope of the present invention. Understood.

1, 1A to 1J...Photography control system 2, 2B, 2C, 2D...Rental reception terminal 20, 20A, 20B...Photo printing device 3... Camera 4...Tag (storage medium)
5... Monitor 6... Reading device 7... Printer 8... Photograph 9... Server 10... Network 12... Transmitter 13 ...Photography control signal 21, 91...Control section 22, 92...Storage section 23, 93...Communication section 24, 94...Input section 25, 95... Display unit 26...Peripheral device I/F unit 31...Memory card 33...Rental slip 211...Image acquisition unit 212...Condition acquisition unit 213...Image extraction unit 214... ...Output section 215...Rental information registration section 216...Photography permission/prohibition signal generation section 217...Photography permission/prohibition signal transmission control section 221...Rental information 311...Receiver 312...Photography permission/prohibition control Department 313... Photography Department

Claims (16)

an image acquisition means for acquiring an image taken by a user at the event with a camera lent at the event ;
a condition acquisition means for acquiring conditions that allow the camera to shoot for each event ;
an image extracting means for extracting an image that satisfies the photographing possible conditions obtained by the condition obtaining means from the images obtained by the image obtaining means;
output means for outputting the image extracted by the image extraction means;
Equipped with
The photographing control system further comprises a setting means for accepting output condition settings from the operator of the event for images that do not satisfy the photographing possible conditions. The photographing enable conditions are stored in a storage medium,
2. The photographing control system according to claim 1, wherein the condition acquisition means reads the photographing possible conditions of the camera from the storage medium. The photographing enable condition is stored in a storage unit of a rental reception terminal that registers rental information of the camera,
2. The photographing control system according to claim 1, wherein the condition acquisition means reads the photographing possible conditions of the camera from the storage unit. The shooting enable conditions are stored in a server that is communicatively connected to a rental reception terminal that registers rental information of the camera;
2. The photographing control system according to claim 1, wherein the condition acquisition means acquires photographing enable conditions of the camera from the server. From claim 1, wherein the image extracting means determines whether or not the image satisfies the photographing possible condition based on additional information recorded in the image photographed by the camera. The photographing control system according to claim 4. Further comprising an event time acquisition means for acquiring the start time and end time of the event,
The image extraction means is configured to select an image that satisfies conditions for photographing based on time information recorded in the image taken by the camera and a start time and an end time of the event acquired by the event time acquisition means. The photographing control system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that it is determined whether or not there is a photographing control system. 5. The image extraction means according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the image extraction means determines whether or not the image photographed by the camera satisfies the photography possible condition through image processing. Shooting control system. 8. The photographing control system according to claim 1, wherein the photographing enable condition is a time-related condition. The photographing control system according to any one of claims 1 to 7 , wherein the photographing enable condition is a condition related to an event. The photographing control system according to any one of claims 1 to 7 , wherein the photographing enable condition is a condition related to a location. Images taken with the camera are saved on the memory card,
11. The photographing control system according to claim 1, wherein the image acquisition means acquires an image photographed by the camera from the memory card. Images taken with the camera are uploaded to a server communicatively connected to the camera,
11. The photographing control system according to claim 1, wherein the image acquisition means acquires an image photographed by the camera from the server. 13. The photographing control system according to claim 1, wherein the output means prints out the image photographed by the camera as a photograph. 11. The photographing control system according to claim 1, wherein the output means displays an image photographed by the camera. The computer is
acquiring an image taken by the user at the event with a camera lent at the event;
a step of acquiring conditions for allowing the camera to shoot for each of the events ;
extracting an image that satisfies the photography possible condition from the acquired images;
a step of outputting the extracted image;
including;
The photographing control method further comprises the step of accepting output condition settings from the event operator for images that do not satisfy the photographing possible conditions . computer,
Image acquisition means for acquiring images taken by a user at the event with a camera lent at the event ;
condition acquisition means for acquiring conditions that allow the camera to shoot for each of the events ;
image extraction means for extracting an image that satisfies the photography possible conditions acquired by the condition acquisition means from the images acquired by the image acquisition means;
output means for outputting the image extracted by the image extraction means;
a setting unit that receives output condition settings from the event operator for images that do not satisfy the shooting possible conditions;
A program to function as

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