JP2005189459A - Print processing system, terminal processor, and photographic processor - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a print processing system, capable of prioritizing the print processing which should be prioritized, when a photographic processor receives a request for printing processing from a plurality of terminal processors. <P>SOLUTION: There are provided the photographic processor 1 that has an exposure engine 32 that executes print processing on paper, the terminal processor 2 that has an image input part that inputs data of an image to be print-processed, and a print processing system in which the photographic processor 1 and the terminal processor 2 are so composed as to be connected by a network 3. A priority-setting part 60, that is capable of setting the order of the terminal processors of which print processing is prioritized, when the photographic processor 1 obtains data for creating the print to be print-processed, with regard to a plurality of terminal processors 2 connected to the network is disposed, in at least either the photographic processor 1 or the terminal processor 2. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a photographic processing apparatus having an image exposure unit for performing a printing process on a photographic photosensitive material, a terminal processing apparatus having an image input unit for inputting image data to be printed, and one or a plurality of units. The present invention relates to a print processing system configured such that the photographic processing apparatus and a plurality of terminal processing apparatuses can be connected via a network, and a terminal processing apparatus and a photographic processing apparatus constituting the system.

  As a system in which a photographic processing apparatus and a terminal processing apparatus (terminal computer) are connected via a network, a photographic print creation system disclosed in the following Patent Document 1 by the present applicant is known. In this system, a photo processing device for creating a photo print and a terminal processing device are connected by a network means. In a photographic processing apparatus, image data from a developed photographic film is mainly input, and image data from a recording medium such as a digital camera is input from a terminal processing apparatus. As described above, since the reception work is distributed according to the type of image data, the work efficiency related to the reception processing is increased.

  The image data received (input) by the terminal processing device is subjected to image processing as necessary in the terminal processing device to generate print creation data. This print creation data is transmitted to the photo processing apparatus via the network. The photo processing apparatus can perform final image processing on the print creation data as necessary, and can perform print processing in the image exposure unit.

  When a photographic processing apparatus and a terminal processing apparatus are connected via a network, a plurality of terminal processing apparatuses may be connected to the network. In the photo processing apparatus, requests for print processing are received from a plurality of terminal processing apparatuses. The order of the print processing is normally set based on the order of order reception (order of old ones).

However, orders regarding print processing are not equally input to a plurality of terminal processing devices, and orders may concentrate on specific terminal processing devices. For example, since an operator who operates a terminal processing apparatus has a different work speed between an expert and a beginner, in general, an order to be printed may be easily accumulated in the terminal processing apparatus handled by the expert. . In addition, an order that requires urgentness may be included in the order, and in such a case, there is a problem with a system configuration in which an order that does not require urgent printing is finished before an urgent order that is printed.
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2003-241935 (FIG. 1, FIG. 2, etc.)

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and the problem is that when a photo processing apparatus receives print processing requests from a plurality of terminal processing apparatuses, priority print processing can be performed. A print processing system and a terminal processing device and a photographic processing device constituting the system are provided.

In order to solve the above problems, a print processing system according to the present invention provides:
PHOTO PROCESSING DEVICE HAVING IMAGE EXPOSURE UNIT FOR PRINTING PHOTOSENSITIVE MATERIAL, TERMINAL PROCESSING DEVICE HAVING IMAGE INPUT UNIT FOR INPUTING IMAGE DATA TO BE PRINT PROCESSED, And a plurality of terminal processing devices configured to be connectable via a network,
At least one of the photographic processing device and the terminal processing device is preferentially subjected to print processing when the photographic processing device acquires print creation data to be printed for a plurality of terminal processing devices connected to the network. It is characterized in that a priority order setting unit capable of setting the order of power terminal processing devices is provided.

  The operation and effect of the print processing system with this configuration will be described. The photographic processing apparatus and the terminal processing apparatus are connected via a network, and image data to be subjected to print processing is input to the terminal processing apparatus. The image data input by the terminal processing device is subjected to image processing as necessary, and then print creation data is generated and transmitted to the photo processing device. The photo processing apparatus performs print processing in the image exposure unit based on the print creation data.

  Further, a priority setting unit is provided in at least one of the photo processing apparatus and the terminal processing apparatus (may be provided in both). The priority order setting unit can set priorities for a plurality of terminal processing devices connected to the network. Therefore, for example, when an urgent order exists in a specific terminal processing device, the urgent order can be preferentially printed by setting the terminal processing device to the highest priority. As a result, it is possible to provide a print processing system that can preferentially perform print processing that should be prioritized when the photo processing device receives print processing requests from a plurality of terminal processing devices.

The priority order setting unit according to the present invention, after setting the priority order of each terminal processing device, a priority order setting data storage unit for storing priority order setting data;
Change notification means for notifying other devices connected to the network to change the priority setting;
It is preferable to include data transmission means for transmitting the changed priority setting data to another device.

  When the priority order is set by the priority order setting section, the data is stored in the priority order setting data storage section. Already set priority order setting data can be changed, and when changed, the other device (terminal processing device or photo processing device) is notified that the setting has been changed. The changed priority setting data can also be transmitted to the other device. Thereby, it is possible to notify other devices that the priority setting has been changed.

  In the present invention, when the changed priority setting data is transmitted from another device, data update means is provided for updating the currently set priority setting data to the changed priority setting data. Preferably it is.

  When changed priority setting data is transmitted from another device, the priority setting data stored in the priority setting data storage unit is rewritten and updated with the changed priority setting data. Thereby, the consistency of the priority order setting data set in each device can be ensured.

In order to solve the above problems, a terminal processing apparatus according to the present invention provides:
An image input unit for inputting image data to be printed;
Priorities for setting the order of the terminal processing devices to be preferentially printed when the photo processing device acquires print creation data to be printed with respect to a plurality of terminal processing devices connected to the network And a setting unit.

  The operation and effect of the terminal processing apparatus with this configuration is as described above. When the photo processing apparatus receives print processing requests from a plurality of terminal processing apparatuses, priority should be given to the print processing. it can.

  The terminal processing apparatus according to the present invention preferably includes inquiry means for inquiring whether or not the print processing data to be transmitted can be processed by the photo processing apparatus to the photo processing apparatus connected to the network. .

  When the print process is performed, for example, the print size and surface quality (corresponding to information relating to a photographic photosensitive material) are designated. In this case, it may be a print size or the like that cannot be created with the photographic photosensitive material attached to the photographic processing apparatus. Therefore, it is preferable to inquire of the photo processing apparatus whether or not processing is possible as described above. When processing cannot be performed, the photo processing apparatus can acquire print creation data from each terminal processing apparatus based on the priority setting data, except for orders that cannot be processed.

  The priority level setting unit according to the present invention sets itself as the first priority level, and sets priority level automatically so that other terminal processing devices connected to the network have a predetermined priority level. It is preferable to provide.

  When setting the priority order, the priority order may be set by manual input for all the terminal processing devices connected to the network, but the following configuration is preferable. That is, it is a mechanism in which the terminal device itself can be set first (highest priority) and the remaining terminal processing devices can be automatically set to have a predetermined priority. When there is an order to be processed urgently, it is possible to employ a mechanism that automatically gives the highest priority as described above. In this case, if the priority order of the terminal processing devices other than the self is not important, it can be automatically set by an appropriate method.

In order to solve the above problems, a photographic processing apparatus according to the present invention provides:
An image exposure unit that performs print processing on the photosensitive material based on print creation data transmitted from the terminal processing device;
Priorities for setting the order of the terminal processing devices to be preferentially printed when the photo processing device acquires print creation data to be printed with respect to a plurality of terminal processing devices connected to the network And a setting unit.

  The operations and effects of the photo processing apparatus with this configuration are as described above. When the photo processing apparatus receives print processing requests from a plurality of terminal processing apparatuses, priority should be given to the print processing. it can.

  In the photo processing apparatus according to the present invention, the priority order setting unit is also provided in the terminal processing apparatus connected to the network, and the priority order setting data set in the photo processing apparatus and the priority order setting set in the terminal processing apparatus. It is preferable that a selection means for selecting which of the data is valid is provided.

  The priority order setting unit can be provided in both the terminal processing device and the photo processing device. In this case, the priority setting data set in the terminal processing device and the photo processing device may be different. Therefore, it is preferable to provide means for selecting which priority setting data is used for printing. Accordingly, it is possible to perform the print processing with a more preferable priority in consideration of the convenience of the print processing in the photo shop.

  A preferred embodiment of an image processing system according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an outline of the system.

<Configuration of image processing system>
In FIG. 1, in an image processing system, a photographic processing device 1 and a terminal processing device 2 are connected by a network 3. The number of the photo processing apparatuses 1 connected to the network 3 is one or a plurality, and the number of connected apparatuses can be arbitrarily set. Similarly, the number of terminal processing devices 2 connected to the network 3 is one or more, and the number of terminals connected can be set arbitrarily. Network 3 is, for example, is constructed by LAN by Ethernet ^TM, may be connected by a network 3 other than Ethernet ^TM. The network 3 is configured to be connectable to the server 5 via the Internet 4.

  The image processing system constructed by the photo processing device 1 and the terminal processing device 2 is installed in, for example, a photo shop. The photo processing apparatus 1 and the terminal processing apparatus 2 do not need to be installed on the same floor, and can be installed on a plurality of floors. Further, a part of the photographic processing apparatus 1 or the terminal processing apparatus 2 may be installed at a distance away.

  Next, functions of the photo processing apparatus 1 will be briefly described. The photographic processing apparatus 1 can print an image on the emulsion surface of paper (photosensitive material) based on the input image data to create a photographic print. The image data input to the photographic processing apparatus 1 may be input directly to the photographic processing apparatus 1 or input via the network 3. That is, the photo processing apparatus 1 can selectively set at least the first print mode and the second print mode.

  In the first print mode, the photographic processing can be executed by the photographic processing apparatus 1 alone regardless of the connection state with the network 3. A typical process is a process of reading a frame image of a developed photographic film by the scanner device 6 and creating a photographic print using the acquired image data. The image data acquired via the scanner device 6 is not used immediately for image exposure, but after various image processing is performed, image data for exposure is generated, and the image data for exposure is used. The image is printed and exposed to paper. The photographic processing apparatus 1 is provided with a first image processing unit 10 (see FIG. 2) for performing image processing.

  On the other hand, in the second print mode, image data (image processing data) transmitted via the network 3 is input. As in the case of the first print mode, exposure image data is generated based on this image data, and a photo print is created. In the second print mode, image data (image processing data) is transmitted from the terminal processing device 2 connected to the network 3.

Here, the function of the terminal processing apparatus 2 is demonstrated easily. The terminal processing device 2 can be configured by a general-purpose personal computer system, for example. The image data handled by the terminal processing unit 2, an image data stored in the recording medium of the storage medium (SmartMedia ^TM, CompactFlash ^TM, Memory Stick ^TM, etc.) or a CD-R, MO or the like of a digital camera, these media A drive device is provided for acquiring image data from the image data.

  Similarly to the photo processing apparatus 1, the terminal processing apparatus 2 is also provided with a second image processing unit for performing image processing. Therefore, when image data input from the terminal processing device 2 is transmitted to the photo processing device 1, image processing data obtained as a result of image processing by the second image processing unit is transmitted.

  The image processing system according to the present invention is configured to be connectable to a server 5 via the Internet 4, and the server 5 can receive a print order from a general user online. That is, the user uploads image data for which he / she wants to create a photo print to the server 5 using his / her personal computer. In the photo shop, the image data uploaded to the server 5 can be downloaded at an appropriate timing to create a photo print. The server 5 also has a function of providing an online album to the user. The downloaded image data is stored in the terminal processing device 2, for example.

<Functional block configuration of image processing system>
<Functional block configuration of photo processing apparatus>
Next, main functions of the image processing system will be described with reference to the block diagrams of FIGS. First, the main functions of the photo processing apparatus 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

  The scanner device 6 is a device for acquiring image data from a frame image formed on a developed photographic film. Although not shown, a light source for reading image data, a CCD line sensor, and the like are provided. Image data can also be obtained from a medium other than photographic film, and an image input device 7 for this purpose is provided. The image input device 7 can acquire image data stored in various recording media in the same manner as the terminal processing device 2 described later. The image data acquired via the scanner device 6 or the image input device 7 is temporarily stored and held in the image data storage unit 8. Note that the photo processing apparatus 1 may not have the function of the image input apparatus 7. This is because the terminal processing apparatus 2 is provided with the same function.

  The first image processing unit 10 has a function of performing image processing on image data, and is configured by software. The first image processing unit 10 includes a GUI 11, an image processing unit 12, and a hardware control unit 13. The GUI 11 is a graphical user interface, and can perform data input operations relating to image processing through a monitor screen.

  FIG. 4 shows a screen configuration example when performing image processing. Here, four of the read images are displayed on the monitor screen. The number of images to be displayed on the monitor screen is not limited to four, but can be set as appropriate, for example, six or eight. The operator can determine whether or not a photographic print is created with an appropriate color and density while viewing the monitor screen. In this monitor screen, the image data 51 is displayed with image data acquired from photographic film or the like.

  Reference numeral 52 denotes a data display area, which displays an average density value, a frame number, and the number of prints of an image. A separate display area 53 is provided at the upper right of the display image 51, and the correction data input from the keyboard 16 for the respective colors Y (yellow), M (magenta), and C (cyan), and the same density correction data. Is displayed. Further, information related to the print size is displayed in the display area 54 below the display image 51. For example, “P” indicates the panorama size. The display area 55 shows the name of the print channel. The print channel will be described later.

  The operator looks at the monitor screen as shown in FIG. 4 and inputs correction data using the keyboard 16 for an image determined to be corrected for color and density. When correction data is input, an image corrected based on the input correction data is displayed in real time on the same monitor screen. Therefore, the operator can appropriately perform image processing while visually confirming the corrected image. The first image processing unit 10 has the function of the image processing unit 12, and an image obtained as a result of image processing by the function of the image processing unit 12 that performs image processing based on the correction data input from the keyboard 16. Appears on the monitor screen again. The input of the correction data is performed to some extent by trial and error, and the finally determined correction data is temporarily stored in the correction data storage unit 17. The correction data is data in a form attached to each image data. The image data storage unit 8 and the correction data storage unit 17 are collectively defined as a data storage unit 18.

  Also, the size of the image displayed on the monitor screen is different from the size of the input image data, and usually thumbnail images with a reduced size are displayed on the screen. The processing for generating the thumbnail image data is also a function of the image processing means 12, and the image processing performed while looking at the monitor screen is also performed based on the thumbnail image data.

  The correction data includes not only those relating to color / density correction but also correction parameters relating to special corrections such as red-eye correction, backlight correction, and gradation correction. Also, the number of prints can be corrected and input on the monitor screen shown in FIG. 4, and the data of the number of prints is also included in the correction data.

  The hardware control means 13 is a function that controls the image processing board 20 that is hardware. The image processing data obtained as a result of the image processing in the first image processing unit 10 is transmitted to the image processing board 20 to create exposure image data. Here, the image processing data is composed of at least image data and correction data. As the image data, the image data acquired from the scanner device 6 or the image input device 7 is directly transmitted to the image processing board 20. Can do.

  When image processing is performed by the first image processing unit 10, it may be immediately sent to the image processing substrate 20 for print processing, but it may be performed later at an appropriate time zone. Therefore, the order data storage unit 9 is configured to store data. The concept of order can be set as appropriate at a photo shop. For example, one photographic film and one recording medium can be handled as one order. The order data storage unit 9 stores image data and correction data, and these data are assigned an order ID and managed in order units.

  Further, even when image processing is performed by the first image processing unit 10 and printing processing is performed immediately, data is stored in the order data storage unit 9. This is preferably stored as order data because a reprinting process or a reprinting process may be performed even if the printing process is performed once. If the image data and the correction data are stored in association with each other, it is not necessary to repeat the same image processing when performing reprinting processing, and the result of the image processing remains as correction data. It can be used again. The reprint process is a process in which the print process is performed again at the discretion of the operator when the quality of the finished photo print is not good, and the reprint process (reorder process) is performed in response to a request from the customer. This means the same print creation process. Accordingly, the image data and the correction data are not deleted even when the print process is performed, but the data is stored and stored in the order data storage unit 9 as described above.

  In addition, when performing image processing and print processing in the first image processing unit 10, it is necessary to set various setting data in advance. The setting data is stored in the setting data file storage unit 14. As setting data, for example, data relating to a print channel can be mentioned. A print channel registers the type of paper used to create a photo print (surface quality, manufacturer, etc.), print size, image data source (data from a digital camera or negative film, etc.), etc. It is a thing. Therefore, if you want to create a photo print of a specific print size based on image data obtained from a digital camera, you need to select a print channel that is suitable for it, and for that purpose such a print channel Must be set in advance. Other setting data includes the amount of change per key operation when correction data is input from the keyboard during image processing operations. For example, when a specific key on the keyboard is pressed once, the Y color can be set to change by “+1.5” when it changes by “+1”.

  Next, the image processing substrate 20 will be described. The image processing board 20 is provided with a reception memory 21, an image processing means 22, a transmission memory 23, and firmware 24. The image processing board 20 has a function of generating image data that is actually used for exposure. The reception memory 21 receives the transmitted image data and correction data. Unlike the image processing unit 12 of the first image processing unit 10, the image processing unit 22 is based on hardware. Based on the correction data, the processing content by the firmware 24 can be set, and based on this, processing for generating exposure image data is performed. As described above, since the image processing board 20 is configured with hardware as a core, image processing by the image processing board 20 is performed at high speed.

  The image processing performed in the image processing means 22 not only generates corrected image data having a color / density corrected based on the correction data, but also becomes data having the same size as the print size to be created. Enlargement processing or rotation processing that converts the image's height and width, special corrections such as red-eye correction and backlight correction that are performed as needed, color matching correction to match the color of the finished photo print with the color on the monitor screen, development Examples include corrections that take into account the type of processing liquid and changes over time. In addition, processing for expanding image data in a compressed file format such as JPEG into a bitmap is also performed. The exposure image data obtained as a result of processing by the image processing means 22 is sent to the transmission memory 23.

  The image processing data transmitted to the image processing board 20 includes those created inside the photo processing apparatus 1 and those transmitted via the network 3. Therefore, the processing selection means 25 is provided, and image processing data from either one can be received. As described above, the photo processing apparatus 1 can selectively set the first print mode and the second print mode. In the first print mode, image processing data generated inside the photo processing apparatus is received, and the second print mode is received. In the print mode, image processing data from the network 3 is received and print processing is executed. Note that the process selection means 25 switches functions in terms of software, and is conceptually shown in FIG. The mode can be switched by displaying a mode setting screen on the monitor 15 and selecting one of the print modes.

  Next, the configuration of the printer processor unit of the photo processing apparatus will be briefly described. In the paper magazine 30, a long paper, which is a photographic photosensitive material, is accommodated in a form wound on a roll. A plurality of paper magazines 30 can be attached to the photographic processing apparatus 1. Thereby, a plurality of types having different paper sizes can be prepared in advance. The paper drawn from the paper magazine 30 is configured to be conveyed along a predetermined conveyance path, and is cut into a predetermined print size by a paper cutter 31 provided along the conveyance path. The cut paper is conveyed to an exposure engine 32 (corresponding to an image exposure unit). The exposure engine 32 uses the exposure image data transferred from the transmission memory 23 of the image processing board 20 to expose and form an image on the emulsion surface of the paper. The exposure engine 32 forms a latent image by scanning the exposure light in the main scanning direction on the paper conveyed in the sub-scanning direction at a constant speed. As the exposure engine 32, those having various structures can be adopted. For example, a laser engine, a PLZT engine, a CRT engine, or the like can be adopted.

  The paper on which the image has been baked and exposed by the exposure engine 32 is sent to the development processing unit 33 and subjected to development processing, and then subjected to drying processing in the drying processing unit 34, and a finished photographic print is produced from the paper discharge unit 35. It is discharged outside. The discharged photographic prints are accumulated in an accumulation unit (not shown) in units of one order.

<Functional block configuration of terminal processing device>
Next, functions of the terminal processing device 2 will be described with reference to the block diagram of FIG. Similar to the photo processing apparatus 1, a second image processing unit 40 for performing image processing is provided. The second image processing unit 40 is configured by software, and includes a GUI 41, an image processing unit 42, and a module that functions as the network control unit 43. The GUI 41 and the image processing unit 42 have the same functions as the GUI 11 and the image processing unit 12 of the first image exposure unit 10 of the photographic processing apparatus 1. That is, the photo processing apparatus 1 and the terminal processing apparatus 2 use the same software except for the hardware control means 13 and the network control means 43 modules. Image processing data obtained in the terminal processing device 2 can be transmitted to the photo processing device 1 via the network 3 based on the function of the network control means 43.

  Unlike image processing software that is generally commercially available, image processing software used in the photographic processing apparatus 1 has various functions necessary for photographic processing. In terms of usability, improvements have been made compared to general software. On the other hand, the terminal processing device 2 can be configured by a personal computer, and it is conceivable to install general image processing software. However, in this case, there are the following problems.

  If the image processing software differs between the photographic processing device 1 and the terminal processing device 2, a plurality of types of software must be learned, which increases unnecessary work. Photo shops often hire part-time workers and part-timers, and if there are many types of software, the training time for these store staff also increases, which wastes the work time that should be spent on the original photo processing. It will also be. Therefore, by making the software used in the photo processing device 1 and the terminal processing device 2 substantially the same, it is possible to eliminate unnecessary work of learning how to use the software. Therefore, the image processing operation in the terminal processing device 2 can be performed in exactly the same manner as in the case of the photo processing device 1.

  A monitor 44 and a keyboard 45 are provided for performing image processing and other photographic processing operations. The setting data file storage unit 46 stores a setting data file, which is basically the same as the setting data file stored in the photo processing apparatus 1. Thereby, work such as image processing can be performed under the same conditions in the photographic processing apparatus 1 and the terminal processing apparatus 2, and the same processing is performed regardless of whether the photographic processing apparatus 1 or the terminal processing apparatus 2 performs image processing. Quality photo prints are obtained.

  The image input device 47 (corresponding to an image input unit) is a device for acquiring image data from a storage medium of a digital camera or other recording media. The input image data is temporarily stored in the image data storage unit 48. The image processing operation by the second image processing unit 40 is the same as that already described in the photo processing apparatus 1, and the configuration example of the monitor screen can be the same as that in FIG. The correction data obtained by the image processing by the second image processing unit 40 is temporarily stored in the correction data storage unit 49. The image data storage unit 48 and the correction data storage unit 49 are the same as the image data storage unit 8 and the correction data storage unit 17 in FIG. The image data storage unit 48 and the correction data storage unit 49 are collectively defined as a data storage unit 58.

  A photographic print is created from the image processing data obtained by the image processing by the second image processing unit 40. However, it is not necessary to immediately perform the printing process, and the data is stored and the printing process is performed later. You can also do it all together. For this purpose, an order data storage unit 50 is provided, in which order data can be stored. This is the same as the case of the order data storage unit 9 in FIG. That is, it is possible to easily cope with re-baking processing and re-printing processing.

  The image processing function in the terminal processing device 2 is only the second image processing unit 40 configured by software, and hardware (image processing board) as provided in the photographic processing device 1 is not provided. Since the image processing board becomes expensive in cost, it is not preferable to install the image processing board in each of a plurality of terminal processing devices because the cost required for system construction increases considerably.

  The terminal processing device 2 can perform image processing work intensively regardless of the operating status of the photo processing device 1. While the terminal processing device 2 performs image processing, the photo processing device 1 can perform print processing separately from this, so that the processing efficiency of the entire image processing system is improved. Even if the power of the photo processing apparatus 1 is turned off, the image processing can be performed only by the terminal processing apparatus 2. For example, image processing can be performed collectively at night when the photo processing apparatus 1 is not operating, order data can be accumulated, and print creation processing can be performed collectively the next morning, so that work efficiency can be improved.

  If the image processing work can be performed only by the photo processing apparatus 1, even if it is desired to perform the image processing, if another operator is using the photo processing apparatus 1, it cannot be used because it is not possible to perform its own work. A long waiting time. According to the present invention, such a useless waiting time does not occur.

  When print processing is performed, the image processing data is sent to the network 3 via the data communication unit 55. The image processing data is transmitted to the photo processing apparatus 1 via the network 3, and image data for exposure is generated on the image processing board 20 of the photo processing apparatus 1, and a photo print is created based on this. The image processing data is received via the data communication unit 36.

  The image data writing device 56 is a device for writing image data on a recording medium such as a CD-R or a DVD. In this case, the image data output from the data communication unit 55 is transferred to the image data writing device 56. The data transferred to the image data writing device 56 is not the image data and the correction data, but the corrected image data corrected by the correction data. The processing for generating the corrected image data is performed by software in the terminal processing device 2. The image data writing device 56 does not need to be provided in all the terminal processing devices 2 provided in plural, and may be provided only in a specific terminal processing device 2.

<Priority order setting function>
Next, a priority setting function provided in the image processing system according to the present invention will be described. When the photo processing apparatus 1 is set to the second print mode and print processing related to a request from the terminal processing apparatus 2 is performed, it is possible to set which terminal processing apparatus 2 is to perform print processing preferentially. . For this purpose, priority order setting units 60 are provided in both the photo processing apparatus 1 and the terminal processing apparatus 2. The priority order setting unit 60 may be provided only in the photo processing apparatus 1 or only in the terminal processing apparatus 2. When provided only in the terminal processing device 2, it may be provided in all the terminal processing devices 2 connected to the network, or may be provided only in a part of the terminal processing devices 2. The priority order setting unit 60 can be configured by software, and can be incorporated as a part of the function of the first image processing unit 10 or the second image processing unit 40.

  The order of print processing when priority is not set is as follows. The order data storage section 50 of each terminal processing device 2 stores (spools) order data to be printed (configured with image processing data including image data and correction data as a core). The order data is spooled in order units (for example, one storage medium can be defined as one order).

  The photo processing device 1 searches each terminal processing device 2 connected to the network 3 and acquires the order data spooled in the order data storage unit 50 in order. In this case, order data is acquired in order of the oldest data. For example, the print processing is performed from the oldest order data based on the date and time data when the order data is spooled in the order data storage unit 50. However, in such a configuration in which print processing is always performed in order from the oldest data, there is a problem that processing of an order that should be urgently printed cannot be performed urgently. Therefore, as described below, a function for setting priority is provided.

  2, each function of the priority order setting unit 60 will be described. The priority order setting means 60 a provides a function that can set the priority order of the terminal processing device 2 connected to the network 3. FIG. 5 shows a configuration example of the setting screen on the monitor screen 15. FIG. 5A shows an example of the screen configuration in the case of setting priorities for the four terminal processing devices 2, and the currently set priorities are displayed in the display area 15a. This priority order setting data is stored in the priority order setting data storage unit 60b.

  If you want to change the priority setting data that is currently set, click on the area 15b displayed as "priority setting" to move to the setting screen shown in FIG. As a setting method, either automatic or manual can be selected. When selecting automatic, it is possible to select either giving the highest priority to the terminal or not giving the highest priority to the terminal. The term “terminal” refers to a terminal processing device (indicated by hatching) in the state selected in FIG. In the case where the priority order setting unit 60 is provided in the terminal processing device 2, it may be default-set so that its own (currently operating) terminal processing device 2 becomes “this terminal”. .

  If this terminal is given the highest priority, the priority order of the terminal processing device 2 is first, and the priority order of the other three terminal processing devices 2 is automatically set based on a predetermined rule. For example, the priority order of the other terminal processing devices 2 can be automatically set based on the order displayed in FIG. By clicking the OK button at the bottom of the screen, the contents of the priority order setting data are updated and stored in the priority order setting data storage unit 60b as new priority order setting data. The function of updating the priority order setting data is based on the function of the data updating unit 60c. When “Do not set the terminal as the highest priority” is selected, the priority order is automatically set based on a predetermined rule. For example, assuming that the priority of the terminal is second, the other terminal processing devices 2 can be set based on the order displayed in FIG. 15A as before.

  The automatic setting of the priorities of other terminal processing devices 2 can also be performed as follows. That is, it is possible to perform communication processing by broadcasting to other terminal processing devices 2 other than the terminal processing device 2 set to the highest priority, and set the priority order in the order in which the replies are sent. Further, the terminal processing devices 2 other than the terminal processing device 2 set with the highest priority may be set based on random numbers if the order is not important.

  When setting manually, as shown in FIG.5 (b), the numerical value of the priority order to set is input. Similarly, other terminal processing devices 2 can be manually input. The set new priority order setting data is stored in the priority order setting data storage unit 60b as described above.

  When the priority setting data is changed, the other terminal processing device 2 (or the photo processing device 1 to all the terminal processing devices 2) is notified that the data has been updated. This is based on the function of the update notification means 60d. In addition, an update notification is made, and the changed priority setting data is transmitted to the terminal processing device 2 that has not been changed. This is based on the function of the data transmitting / receiving unit 60e (corresponding to the data transmitting unit). Further, the data transmitting / receiving unit 60e can receive the priority setting data updated from the other terminal processing device 2. The received priority setting data is stored and updated in the priority setting data storage unit 60b based on the function of the data updating unit c.

  When the data setting is changed by the priority setting unit 60 of the photo processing device 1, the update notification and distribution of the updated priority setting data are sent to all the terminal processing devices 2 connected to the network 3. Done. When a priority terminal setting data setting is changed in a specific terminal processing device 2, update notifications and updates are made to all other terminal processing devices 2 and photo processing devices 1 connected to the network 3. Distribution of priority setting data is performed. With this configuration, it is possible to ensure the consistency of the priority setting data set in the photo processing device 1 and the terminal processing device 2.

  As described above, the photo processing apparatus 1 and the terminal processing apparatus 2 are configured to store the same priority setting data, but the same priority setting data is not always stored. For example, when the priority order setting data is updated for the photo processing device 1 or the specific terminal processing device 2 in a state disconnected from the network 3, the updated data is transferred to another device (the photo processing device 1 or the terminal processing device). It is not reflected for 2). The same applies when the power supply of the device connected to the network 3 is turned off. In such a case, after all the devices are connected to the network 3 and are in the online state, if the priority setting is changed in any of the priority setting units 60, all the devices are set based on the priority setting data. The priority setting data is updated.

  Further, a selection unit 60 f can be provided as a function of the priority order setting unit 60. This function has a function of selecting which one of the priority order setting data set in the photo processing apparatus 1 and the priority order setting data set in the terminal processing apparatus 2 is valid. In other words, when the priority setting data is different between the photo processing device 1 and the terminal processing device 2, either one can be validated. If the priority setting data of the photo processing device 1 is selected to be valid, even if the priority setting data is changed on the terminal processing device 2 side, it is set in the photo processing device 1. The print processing is performed based on the priority setting data. The selection unit 60f can be preferably provided as a function of the priority order setting unit 60 of the photo processing apparatus 1, but can also be provided in the priority order setting unit 60 of the terminal processing apparatus 2.

  The order table 61 is a table in which the order of processing order data related to a request from the terminal processing device 2 connected to the network 3 is registered. The order table 61 is arranged in order of print processing. The contents of the order table 61 can be displayed on the monitor 15 for confirmation. The order table 61 is created based on the priority setting data that is currently set. When the contents of the priority setting data are updated, the contents of the table are also updated according to the updated contents. In other words, the order of the order is re-sorted according to the changed priority setting data.

  The operation status confirmation unit 37 provided in the photo processing apparatus 1 has a function of confirming the operation status of each unit of the photo processing apparatus 1. For example, it is possible to confirm what processing is currently performed (reading of image data by the scanner device 6, image processing work, print processing by the exposure engine 32, development processing in the development processing unit 33, etc.). Further, it is possible to confirm information on the paper stored in the paper magazine 30 attached to the photo processing apparatus 1. The paper information includes the paper size (printable print size 9 and paper surface quality, paper manufacturer / product name, etc .. The function of the operation status confirmation unit 37 allows the terminal processing device 2 to be described later. Can respond to inquiries.

  The function of the inquiry means 40a provided in the terminal processing device 2 will be described. The inquiry unit 40 a is incorporated as a function of the second image processing unit 40. The inquiry unit 40a has a function of inquiring whether the print processing to be requested to the photo processing apparatus 1 can be processed. For example, the correction data in the order data includes data relating to the print size, but it is possible to inquire whether the print size can be processed by the photo processing apparatus 1. The operation status confirmation unit 37 of the photo processing apparatus 1 that has received the inquiry signal acquires information about the paper and returns it to the terminal processing apparatus 2. The inquiry means 40a can determine whether the order is such that the photo processing apparatus 1 can perform print processing based on the returned information regarding the paper. If it is an order that can be processed, this can be notified to the photo processing apparatus 1. It is possible to check whether all order data spooled in the order data storage unit 50 can be processed for each order. In the order table 61 of the photographic processing apparatus 1, it is possible to register whether or not each order can be processed. When actually acquiring order data via the network, only the order data that can be processed is stored. Acquisition can be made based on the set priority.

  In the configuration example described above, the priority order is set for all of the terminal processing devices 2 connected to the network 3, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the priority order can be set only for some of the terminal processing devices 2. For example, assuming that four terminal processing devices 2 (A, B, C, D) are connected, the order is set only for two of them, A, B, and the other two C, D are not set. It can also be configured. In this case, all orders of A with the first priority are processed first, and then all orders of B with the second highest priority are processed. When it is finished, C and D can be processed in the order of old order.

<Procedure for changing priority setting data>
Next, a schematic procedure for changing the priority setting will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. First, a priority order setting screen as shown in FIG. 5 is opened (# 20). Next, priority order is set (# 21). If the priority setting is completed and the OK button on the screen is clicked, the setting content is confirmed, and the priority setting data is updated based on the function of the data updating means 60c (# 23). At the same time, an update notification signal is transmitted to each device via the network (# 24). This is based on the functions of the update notification unit 60d and the data transmission / reception unit 60e.

  For example, the terminal processing device 2 receives the update notification signal and also receives the updated priority setting data (# 25, 26). This is based on the function of the data transmitting / receiving means 60e. The received priority setting data is stored in the priority setting data storage unit 60b, and the data update is completed (# 27).

<Print processing procedure>
An outline procedure for setting the second print mode in the photographic processing apparatus 1 and performing a print process according to a request from the terminal processing apparatus 2 will be described. If no priority order is set by the priority order setting unit 60, the order data is processed in order from the oldest date. When the priority order setting unit 60 sets the priority order, the print processing is sequentially performed according to the priority order. The print processing order is based on the order table 61 as described above regardless of whether or not the priority order is set.

  Suppose that there are four terminal processing devices A, B, C, and D connected to the network 3, and the priority order is set in this order. In this case, after all the order data of the terminal processing device A is processed, the order data of the terminal processing device B is processed, and the print processing is performed in the order of C → D. In the case where the priority order is set as described above, if there are many orders of A, it may take a considerable time until the order data for other terminal processing devices is started. Therefore, even if the priority order is set, not all of the order data is printed, but, for example, after half the print process is performed, the next priority order terminal processing device print process is performed. You may make it do.

  As a result of the inquiry by the inquiry means 40a, if the photo processing apparatus 1 cannot perform the printing process, the printing process is not performed, and the printing process is executed based on the priority setting data set only for the other order data. can do.

<Another embodiment>
(1) The photographic processing apparatus according to the present invention may not be an apparatus in which the image processing unit and the image exposure unit are integrated. For example, in FIG. 1, the scanner device 6 has a structure separated from the photographic processing apparatus main body. However, the image processing unit and the image exposure unit may be separated from each other in the same manner as this. When disconnected, it is connected by a communication line.
(2) The terminal processing apparatus can be configured by a general-purpose computer (personal computer), but is not limited thereto, and may be configured by a computer specialized for a specific function.
(3) In this embodiment, image processing data including image data and correction data is transmitted from the terminal processing device to the photo processing device. This image data is the same as the image data when input to the terminal processing apparatus, but the corrected image data corrected by some correction parameters and the remaining correction data may be transmitted.
(4) In the present embodiment, the image data input from the image input device 47 has been described as being input via a digital storage medium. However, a frame formed on a negative film (photographic film) using a scanner. An image may be input. Further, an image formed on a printed material by a flat bed scanner may be input.

Schematic diagram showing the system overview Functional block diagram showing the configuration of the photo processing apparatus Functional block diagram showing the configuration of the terminal processing device The figure which shows the structural example of the monitor screen at the time of performing image processing work Figure showing a configuration example of the priority order setting screen Flow chart showing the procedure for changing priority setting

Explanation of symbols

1 Photo processing device 2 Terminal processing device 3 Network 8 Image data storage unit 10 First image processing unit 11 GUI
12 image processing means 13 hardware control means 14 setting data file storage section 17 correction data storage section 20 image processing substrate 22 image processing means 32 exposure engine 37 operation status confirmation section 40 second image processing section 40a inquiry means 41 GUI
42 Image processing unit 43 Network control unit 44 Monitor 45 Keyboard 46 Setting data file storage unit 47 Image input device 48 Image data storage unit 49 Correction data storage unit 50 Order data storage unit 60 Priority level setting unit 60a Priority level setting unit 60b Priority level Setting data storage unit 60c Data update unit 60d Update notification unit 60e Data transmission / reception unit 60f Selection unit 61 Order table

Claims (9)

PHOTO PROCESSING DEVICE HAVING IMAGE EXPOSURE UNIT FOR PRINTING PHOTOSENSITIVE MATERIAL, TERMINAL PROCESSING DEVICE HAVING IMAGE INPUT UNIT FOR INPUTING IMAGE DATA TO BE PRINT PROCESSED, And a plurality of terminal processing devices configured to be connectable via a network,
At least one of the photographic processing device and the terminal processing device is preferentially subjected to print processing when the photographic processing device acquires print creation data to be printed for a plurality of terminal processing devices connected to the network. A print processing system, characterized in that a priority order setting unit capable of setting the order of power terminal processing devices is provided. The priority order setting unit, after setting the priority order of each terminal processing device, a priority order setting data storage unit for storing priority order setting data;
A change notification means for notifying other devices connected to the network that the priority setting has been changed;
The print processing system according to claim 1, further comprising data transmission means for transmitting the changed priority setting data to another apparatus.   When the changed priority setting data is transmitted from another device, it is provided with data updating means for updating the currently set priority setting data to the changed priority setting data. The print processing system according to claim 2. A terminal processing apparatus connected by a network to a photographic processing apparatus having an image exposure unit that performs a printing process on a photographic photosensitive material,
An image input unit for inputting image data to be printed;
Priorities for setting the order of the terminal processing devices to be preferentially printed when the photo processing device acquires print creation data to be printed with respect to a plurality of terminal processing devices connected to the network A terminal processing apparatus, comprising: a setting unit.   5. The terminal according to claim 4, further comprising inquiry means for inquiring to the photo processing apparatus connected to the network whether or not the print creation data to be transmitted can be processed by the photo processing apparatus. Processing equipment.   6. The terminal processing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the terminal processing apparatus is configured to inquire about information relating to a photographic photosensitive material attached to the photographic processing apparatus.   The priority level setting unit includes priority level setting means for setting itself to the first priority level and automatically setting other terminal processing devices connected to the network to have a predetermined priority level. The terminal processing apparatus according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein: A photographic processing apparatus connected via a network to a terminal processing apparatus having a function of generating print creation data to be printed,
An image exposure unit that performs print processing on the photosensitive material based on print creation data transmitted from the terminal processing device;
Priorities for setting the order of the terminal processing devices to be preferentially printed when the photo processing device acquires print creation data to be printed with respect to a plurality of terminal processing devices connected to the network A photo processing apparatus, comprising: a setting unit.   The terminal processing apparatus connected to the network is also provided with a priority setting unit, and which of the priority setting data set by the photo processing apparatus and the priority setting data set by the terminal processing apparatus is to be valid. 9. The photo processing apparatus according to claim 8, further comprising selection means for selecting.

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