Image file creation method, image file, image file creation device, and program

Abstract

An image file creation method includes: an acquisition step of acquiring recorded information including additional information that can be recorded in a first recording area of an image file or derived information derived from the additional information; and a recording step of recording the recording information in a second recording area of the image file.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The technology of the present invention relates to an image file creation method, an image file, an image file creation device and a program. Background Art

[0002] An information processing device is disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication No. 2019-041192. In the information processing device described in Japanese Patent Publication No. 2019-041192, Exif information of latitude, longitude and azimuth is stored in the APP1 area of ​​the image data. The information processing device has a computing unit. The computing unit obtains object information related to the Exif information stored in the APP1 area, and generates metadata recorded in JSON based on the object information. And, the computing unit stores the generated metadata in the APP11 area of ​​the image data.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-225229 discloses an image file creation method. The image file creation method described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-225229 includes: a process of generating first shooting information and second shooting information more detailed than the first shooting information based on shooting conditions; a process of converting the second shooting information into encrypted third shooting information; and a process of generating an image file by adding the first shooting information and the third shooting information to image data obtained by shooting. Summary of the invention

[0004] One embodiment of the technology according to the present invention provides an image file creation method, an image file, an image file creation device, and a program capable of improving the convenience of an image file.

[0005] Means for solving technical problems

[0006] The first method involved in the technology of the present invention is a method for creating an image file, which includes: an acquisition process for acquiring recording information containing additional information that can be recorded in a first recording area of ​​an image file or derived information derived from the additional information; and a recording process for recording the recording information in a second recording area of ​​the image file.

[0007] A second aspect of the technology of the present invention is an image file including a first recording area capable of recording additional information and a second recording area, wherein recording information including the additional information or derived information derived from the additional information is recorded in the second recording area.

[0008] The third method involved in the technology of the present invention is an image file creation device, which has a processor, and the processor performs the following processing: obtaining recording information including additional information that can be recorded in the first recording area of ​​the image file or derived information derived from the additional information, and recording the recording information in the second recording area of ​​the image file.

[0009] The fourth method involved in the technology of the present invention is a program for causing a computer to execute processing, the processing including: an acquisition step of acquiring recording information containing additional information that can be recorded in a first recording area of ​​an image file or derived information derived from the additional information; and a recording step of recording the recording information into a second recording area of ​​the image file. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Figure 1 This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a method of using the imaging device.

[0011] Figure 2 This is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the electrical system of the imaging device and the functions of the main parts.

[0012] Figure 3 This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the correlation between the image sensor and the acquisition unit.

[0013] Figure 4 This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the correlation between the acquisition unit and the recording unit.

[0014] Figure 5 This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the relationship between NVM, image files, and encryption units.

[0015] Figure 6 This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the correlation between the encryption unit and the recording unit.

[0016] Figure 7 This is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of image file creation processing according to the embodiment.

[0017] Figure 8 This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a method of recording recording time information in the second recording area of ​​an image file.

[0018] Fig. 9 This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a method of recording history information in the second recording area of ​​an image file.

[0019] Fig.10 This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a method of recording the subject distance information or the subject position information in the second recording area of ​​the image file.

[0020] Fig.11This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a method in which information in which shooting condition information is associated with subject distance information is recorded in the second recording area of ​​an image file, and subject distance information, azimuth information, and camera position information are recorded in a state in which they are associated with subject position information.

[0021] Fig.12 This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a method of recording additional information in a first recording area of ​​an image file in accordance with a recording instruction given to an imaging device.

[0022] Fig.13 This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a method in which even information not permitted to be recorded in the first recording area of ​​an image file among a plurality of information included in the additional information is recorded in the first recording area in accordance with an instruction given to the imaging device.

[0023] Fig.14 This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a method in which a hash value used for encryption in the encryption unit is recorded in the second recording area of ​​the image file.

[0024] Fig.15 This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of how re-encrypted information obtained by encrypting encrypted information (e.g., hash value) with a private key, a URL capable of identifying a location where a public key is stored, and a hash function used to generate the encrypted information are recorded in the second recording area of ​​an image file.

[0025] Fig.16 This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a manner in which information designated among a plurality of pieces of information in the first additional information recorded in the first recording area of ​​the image file is divided and recorded in the second recording area of ​​the image file.

[0026] Fig.17 This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a method in which an external device performs image file creation processing in response to a request from an imaging device, and the imaging device receives the processing result.

[0027] Fig.18 This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the structure of an image file in the JPEG format. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] Hereinafter, an example of an embodiment of an image file creation method, an image file, an image file creation device, and a program according to the technology of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0029] As an example, Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 1 , the imaging device 10 captures an imaging target area 12 designated as a subject. The imaging target area 12 is determined based on an angle of view designated by a user of the imaging device 10 (hereinafter referred to as a “user”). Figure 1In the example shown, the image capturing area 12 includes a plurality of people, roads, etc. The image capturing device 10 is an example of an “image file creating device” according to the technique of the present invention.

[0030] The camera device 10 generates an image file 16 by photographing the photographing object area 12 according to the instruction given by the photographer 14. As the file format of the image file 16, for example, JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) can be cited. However, this is just an example, and any file format for still images such as TIFF (Tag Image File Format) can be used.

[0031] The image file 16 includes image data 18 representing an image captured in the object area 12 and metadata 20 related to the image data 18. The metadata 20 is data related to the image data 18 and includes data in the Exif (Exchangeable image file format) format. The image file 16 is an example of an "image file" involved in the technology of the present invention.

[0032] The camera device 10 is a civilian digital camera. As an example of a civilian digital camera, a lens-interchangeable digital camera or a lens-fixed digital camera can be cited. A civilian digital camera is just an example, and it is also applicable even if the camera device 10 is an industrial digital camera. The technology of the present invention is also applicable even when the camera device 10 is a camera device mounted on various electronic devices such as a driving recorder, a smart device, a wearable terminal, a cell observation device, an ophthalmic observation device, or a surgical microscope. In addition, the technology of the present invention is also applicable when the camera device 10 is a camera device mounted on various medical imaging devices such as an endoscope device, an ultrasonic diagnostic device, an X-ray imaging device, a CT (Computed Tomography) device, or an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) device. In addition, the camera device 10 can also be a virtual camera that obtains image data 18 of a VR (Virtual Reality) space.

[0033] The image file 16 may be sent and received between multiple persons including the photographer 14 (for example, multiple persons who are granted the right to use the image file 16). An example of a method of sending and receiving the image file 16 may be a method of sending and receiving via a network such as a WAN (Wide Area Network) or a LAN (Local Area Network) or a method of sending and receiving via a portable storage medium such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory.

[0034] In recent years, with the increasing frequency of use of AI (Artificial Intelligence), the demand for writing annotation information into image files is increasing. The annotation information can be information in binary format or information in text format created based on the binary format information. In the existing known image files, as a recording area for recording binary format information, an area such as APP1 is prepared. At present, it is required to be able to freely process the annotation information while directly ensuring the binary format information recorded in the APP1 area. And at the same time, it is also required to ensure the security and authenticity of the annotation information. However, the existing known image files do not have a mechanism that has the convenience to fully meet these requirements. For example, the main part of the APP1 area is a structure in which information is written in binary format, and only predetermined specific information can be recorded. The APP1 area is not suitable for storing information with a high degree of freedom.

[0035] Therefore, in view of this situation, in this embodiment, the image pickup device 10 performs image file creation processing (refer to Figure 2 Later). Below, refer to Figure 2 The following drawings provide a detailed description.

[0036] As an example, Figure 2 As shown, the imaging device 10 includes a computer 30, an image sensor 32, and a UI (User Interface) device 34. The computer 30 is an example of a "computer" according to the technique of the present invention.

[0037] The computer 30 includes a processor 42, a NVM (Non-volatile memory) 44, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 46. The processor 42, the NVM 44, and the RAM 46 are connected to a bus 48. The processor 42 is an example of a "processor" according to the technique of the present invention.

[0038] The processor 42 is a processing device including a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). The DSP and the GPU work under the control of the CPU and are responsible for performing image-related processing. Here, as an example of the processor 42, a processing device including a DSP, a CPU and a GPU is listed, but this is just an example. The processor 42 may also be one or more CPUs and one or more GPUs, one or more CPUs and DSPs with integrated GPU functions, one or more CPUs and DSPs without integrated GPU functions, or may be equipped with a TPU (Tensor Processing Unit).

[0039] NVM44 is a nonvolatile storage device that stores various programs and various parameters. As NVM44, a flash memory (for example, EEPROM (Electrically Erasable and Programmable Read Only Memory)) can be cited. RAM46 is a memory that temporarily stores information and is used as a working memory by the processor 42. As RAM46, for example, DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) or SRAM (Static Random Access Memory) can be cited.

[0040] The image sensor 32 is connected to the bus 48. An example of the image sensor 32 is a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) image sensor. The image sensor 32 is controlled by the processor 42 to capture the image of the object area 12 (reference Figure 1 ) is photographed to generate image data 18.

[0041] Here, a CMOS image sensor is cited as an example of the image sensor 32 , but this is just an example, and the image sensor 32 may be another type of image sensor such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor.

[0042] The NVM 44 stores an image file creation program 50. The image file creation program 50 is an example of a "program" involved in the technology of the present invention. The processor 42 reads the image file creation program 50 from the NVM 44 and executes the read image file creation program 50 on the RAM 46 to perform image file creation processing. The image file creation processing is an example of "processing" involved in the technology of the present invention, and is implemented by the processor 42 operating as the acquisition unit 42A, the encryption unit 42B, and the recording unit 42C according to the image file creation program 50 executed on the RAM 46.

[0043] As an example, Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 1 , the acquisition unit 42A acquires the image data 18 and the additional information 52. The acquisition unit 42A performs an imaging process and a first acquisition process. The imaging process is a process of acquiring the image data 18 obtained by imaging by the image sensor 32 from the image sensor 32. The first acquisition process is to obtain the image data 18 obtained by imaging by the image sensor 32 as metadata 20 (refer to FIG. 1 ). Figure 1 ) is a process of acquiring additional information 52 added to the image data 18. The additional information 52 is information in a binary format including Exif information. Here, the first acquisition process is an example of the "acquisition process" involved in the technology of the present invention. In addition, the additional information 52 is an example of the "additional information" and "recorded information" involved in the technology of the present invention.

[0044] The additional information 52 includes multiple tags. Tags are metadata 20 ( Figure 1 ) is divided into data of item units. As items, the shooting time, the position of the camera device 10, the orientation of the camera device 10, and the shooting conditions, etc. can be cited. Here, the shooting time refers to the time when the shooting is performed using the camera device 10 in order to obtain the image data 18. In addition, the position of the camera device 10 refers to the position where the shooting is performed by the camera device 10 in order to obtain the image data 18 (for example, the latitude and longitude of the camera device 10 at the time of shooting). In addition, the orientation of the camera device 10 refers to the orientation of the optical axis of the lens mounted on the camera device 10. In addition, the shooting conditions refer to various conditions used in shooting (for example, the subject distance, ISO sensitivity, aperture value, focus position and focal length, etc.).

[0045] The additional information 52 includes a plurality of tags, such as shooting time information 52A, camera position information 52B, orientation information 52C, and shooting condition information 52D. The shooting time information 52A is information indicating the shooting time. The camera position information 52B is information indicating the position of the camera 10. The orientation information 52C is information indicating the orientation of the camera 10. The shooting condition information 52D is information indicating the shooting conditions.

[0046] The shooting condition information 52D includes subject distance information 52D1, sensitivity information 52D2, aperture information 52D3, focus position information 52D4, and focal length information 52D5. The subject distance information 52D1 is information indicating the subject distance (for example, the distance from the light receiving surface of the image sensor 32 to the shooting object area 12). The sensitivity information 52D2 is information indicating the ISO sensitivity. The aperture information 52D3 is information related to the aperture (for example, information indicating the F value). The focus position information 52D4 is information indicating the focus position of the focus lens included in the lens installed in the camera device 10. The focal length information 52D5 is information indicating the focal length of the camera device 10.

[0047] As an example, Figure 4 As shown, the image file 16 includes an image data recording area 54 and a metadata recording area 56. The image data recording area 54 is an area for recording the image data 18. The metadata recording area 56 is an area for recording the metadata 20. The metadata recording area 56 includes a first recording area 56A and a second recording area 56B. The first recording area 56A is an example of the “first recording area” involved in the technology of the present invention, and the second recording area 56B is an example of the “second recording area” involved in the technology of the present invention.

[0048] The first recording area 56A is an area for recording information in a binary format, and the second recording area 56B is an area for recording information in a text format (for example, JSON (JavaScript (registered trademark) Object Notation) format).

[0049] Here, as an example of the first recording area 56A, an APP1 area of ​​a JPEG file format can be cited. As an example of the second recording area 56B, a recording area other than the APP1 area of ​​a JPEG file format can be cited. As an example of a recording area other than the APP1 area of ​​a JPEG file format, an APP11 area can be cited. Regarding a JPEG file format having an APP1 area and an APP11 area, a JPEG file format having an APP1 area and an APP11 area can be cited. Fig.18 This will be explained later.

[0050] The recording unit 42C records the image data 18 acquired by the acquisition unit 42A in the image data recording area 54. The recording unit 42C performs a first recording process. The first recording process is an example of a "recording process" involved in the technology of the present invention. The first recording process is a process of recording the additional information 52 acquired by the acquisition unit 42A in the first recording area 56A.

[0051] As an example, Figure 5As shown, the encryption unit 42B acquires the encrypted information 58. The encryption unit 42B performs the second acquisition process. The second acquisition process is an example of the "acquisition process" involved in the technology of the present invention. The second acquisition process is a process of acquiring the additional information 52 from the first recording area 56A of the image file 16, and encrypting the acquired additional information 52, thereby acquiring the encrypted information 58 as information derived from the additional information 52. The encrypted information 58 is an example of the "derived information" and "encrypted information" involved in the technology of the present invention.

[0052] As an example of encryption of the additional information 52, hashing using a hash function 60 can be cited. In the present embodiment, the hash function 60 is stored in the NVM 44. As an example of the hash function 60, SHA-256, SHA-384, or SHA-512 can be cited. The encryption unit 42B obtains the hash function 60 from the NVM 44, and uses the obtained hash function 60 to encrypt (i.e., hash) the additional information 52, thereby obtaining encrypted information 58 (i.e., a hash value). Here, the encrypted information 58 is an example of a "hash value" involved in the technology of the present invention. In addition, as Fig.15 As shown, the encrypted information 58 may be further encrypted to obtain the re-encrypted information 76 .

[0053] The encryption of the additional information 52 is preferably automatically performed after the acquisition unit 42A acquires the additional information 52. To achieve this, for example, the encryption unit 42B synchronizes the end of the first acquisition process with the start of the second acquisition process (for example, the second acquisition process is started at the time when the first acquisition process ends) to continuously perform the first acquisition process and the second acquisition process. The reason for this is to avoid creating a time margin for the additional information 52 to be modified by a third party (for example, a person who is not authorized to use the image file 16) or a part of the additional information 52 is deleted or the modified additional information 52 or the additional information 52 with a part deleted is encrypted.

[0054] As an example, Figure 6 As shown, the encrypted information 58 is recorded in the second recording area 56B. The recording unit 42C performs the second recording process. The second recording process is a process of recording the encrypted information 58 generated by the encryption unit 42B as one of the metadata 20 in the second recording area 56B of the image file 16. Here, the second recording process is an example of the "recording process" involved in the technology of the present invention. In addition, the encrypted information 58 recorded in the second recording area 56B is an example of the "recording information" involved in the technology of the present invention.

[0055] Next, refer to Figure 7 The operation of the portion of the imaging device 10 that is related to the technique of the present invention will be described.

[0056] exist Figure 7 FIG. 4 shows an example of the flow of image file creation processing performed by the processor 42 of the imaging device 10. Figure 7 The flow of the image file creation process represented by the flowchart is an example of the “image file creation method” involved in the technology of the present invention.

[0057] exist Figure 7 In the image file creation process shown, first, in step ST10, the acquisition unit 42A determines whether one frame of image capture is performed by the image sensor 32. In step ST10, if one frame of image capture is not performed by the image sensor 32 (for example, still image capture), the determination is negative, and the image file creation process proceeds to step ST26. In step ST10, if one frame of image capture is performed by the image sensor 32, the determination is positive, and the image file creation process proceeds to step ST12.

[0058] In step ST12, the acquisition section 42A acquires the image data 18 from the image sensor 32. After the process of step ST12 is performed, the image file creation process proceeds to step ST14.

[0059] In step ST14, the acquisition section 42A acquires the additional information 52 added to the image data 18 acquired in step ST12. After the process of step ST14 is performed, the image file creation process proceeds to step ST16.

[0060] In step ST16, the recording section 42C records the image data 18 acquired in step ST12 in the image data recording area 54 of the image file 16. After the process of step ST16 is performed, the image file creation process proceeds to step ST18.

[0061] In step ST18, the recording unit 42C records the additional information 52 acquired in step ST14 in the first recording area 56A of the image file 16. After the process of step ST18 is executed, the image file creation process proceeds to step ST20.

[0062] In step ST20, the encryption unit 42B acquires the additional information 52 from the first recording area 56A of the image file 16, and acquires the encrypted information 58 by encrypting the acquired additional information 52 using the hash function 60. After executing the process of step ST20, the image file creation process proceeds to step ST22.

[0063] In step ST22, the recording unit 42C records the encrypted information 58 acquired in step ST20 in the second recording area 56B of the image file 16. After the process of step ST22 is executed, the image file creation process proceeds to step ST24.

[0064] In step ST24, the recording unit 42C outputs the image file 16 to a predetermined output destination. Examples of the predetermined output destination include an external device (e.g., a smart device, a personal computer, or a server) communicably connected to the imaging device 10, the NVM 44, or a printer.

[0065] In step ST26, the recording unit 42C determines whether the condition for terminating the image file creation process is satisfied. As an example of the condition for terminating the image file creation process, a condition for receiving an instruction to terminate the image file creation process through the UI device 34 can be cited. In step ST26, if the condition for terminating the image file creation process is not satisfied, the determination is negative, and the image file creation process proceeds to step ST10. In step ST26, if the condition for terminating the image file creation process is satisfied, the determination is positive, and the image file creation process is terminated.

[0066] As described above, in the imaging device 10, the additional information 52 is acquired, and the encrypted information 58 derived from the additional information 52 is acquired. Then, the additional information 52 is recorded in the first recording area 56A of the image file 16, and the encrypted information 58 is recorded in the second recording area 56B.

[0067] For example, a user (e.g., a photographer 14 or an editor who is authorized to use the image file 16) obtains the encrypted information 58 from the second recording area 56B of the image file 16 configured as described above, and obtains the additional information 52 by decrypting the encrypted information 58. The additional information 52 obtained by the user is used by the user as information (e.g., information for annotation of AI) that helps manage or edit the image file 16. In this way, the encrypted information 58 is recorded in the second recording area 56B of the image file 16, and is used by the user to manage or edit the image file 16, etc., thereby improving the convenience of the image file 16 for the user.

[0068] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the encrypted information 58 recorded in the second recording area 56B is information obtained by encrypting the additional information 52, and thus higher security can be achieved compared to when the additional information 52 is directly recorded in the second recording area 56B.

[0069] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, even if the encryption information 58 is acquired by the user for managing or editing the image file 16, for example, the state where the additional information 52 is recorded in the first recording area 56A of the image file 16 is maintained. Therefore, the user can refer to or use not only the encryption information 58 recorded in the first recording area 56B but also the additional information 52 recorded in the first recording area 56A in order to manage or edit the image file 16. As a result, the convenience of the additional information 52 is improved.

[0070] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the additional information 52 is recorded in the first recording area 56A (here, as an example, the APP1 area) as binary format information, and the encrypted information 58 is recorded in the second recording area 56B (here, as an example, the APP11 area) as text format information. Therefore, while the additional information 52 is secured in the first recording area 56A as binary format information, the encrypted information 58 derived from the additional information 52 can be handled as text format information.

[0071] In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiment, the encryption information 58 is recorded in the second recording area 56B, but the technology of the present invention is not limited to this. Figure 8 As shown, the recording unit 42C may execute a process of recording the recording time information 62 in the second recording area 56B of the image file 16 as one of the processes included in the second recording process.

[0072] To achieve this, for example, first, the recording unit 42C determines whether the encrypted information 58 is recorded in the second recording area 56B. And, in the case where it is determined that the encrypted information 58 is recorded in the second recording area 56B, the recording unit 42C obtains the recording time information 62. The recording time information 62 is information indicating the time when the encrypted information 58 is recorded in the second recording area 56B (in other words, the time when the encrypted information 58 is determined by the recording unit 42C to be recorded in the second recording area 56B). Here, the time when the encrypted information 58 is recorded in the second recording area 56B is an example of "the time when the recording information is recorded in the second recording area" involved in the technology of the present invention. And, the recording time information 62 is an example of "time information" involved in the technology of the present invention.

[0073] The recording time information 62 is acquired by the recording unit 42C from the time information supply unit 64. The time information supply unit 64 is, for example, a real-time clock or a network mounted on the imaging device 10, and supplies the current time information indicating the current time to the recording unit 42C in response to a request from the recording unit 42C. The recording unit 42C records the current time information supplied from the time information supply unit 64 as the recording time information 62 in the second recording area 56B of the image file 16.

[0074] Thus, the user can easily understand the time (here, as an example, the time) when the encrypted information 58 is recorded in the second recording area 56B of the image file 16. Furthermore, the user can use the recording time information 62 recorded in the second recording area 56B to manage or edit the image file 16, etc.

[0075] Here, for the sake of convenience, an example of recording the information indicating the time when the encrypted information 58 is recorded in the second recording area 56B as the recording time information 62 is recorded in the second recording area 56B is given, but this is only an example. For example, in the same manner, information indicating the time when information other than the encrypted information 58 (for example, information derived from the additional information 52) is recorded in the second recording area 56B can also be recorded in the second recording area 56B. In addition, information related to the time when the second acquisition process ends, that is, the time when the additional information 52 is encrypted (for example, time) can be recorded in the second recording area 56B as one of the information derived from the additional information 52.

[0076] In the above embodiment, the encrypted information 58 is exemplified as information derived from the additional information 52, but the technology of the present invention is not limited to this. Fig. 9 As shown, the information derived from the additional information 52 may be history information 66 related to the history of changes to the additional information 52 .

[0077] exist Fig. 9 In the example shown, the history information 66 is stored in the NVM 44. Here, the example in which the history information 66 is stored in the NVM 44 is given, but this is only an example, and the history information 66 may be stored in a storage medium other than the NVM 44. As a storage medium other than the NVM 44, for example, a storage medium provided in a device (for example, a smart device, a personal computer, or a server, etc.) that is communicably connected to the imaging device 10 can be given.

[0078] Whenever the additional information 52 is changed, the historical information 66 stored in the NVM 44 is updated by the processor 42 or the like. As an example of the historical information 66, the first historical information, the second historical information, or the third historical information can be cited. The first historical information is information in which the additional information 52 before the change is associated with the additional information 52 after the change, and the changes in the information are arranged in time series. The second historical information is information in which the difference between the additional information 52 before the change and the additional information 52 after the change is arranged in time series. The third historical information is information that can determine the time when the change of the additional information 52 is made and the content of the change of the additional information 52. In this way, the historical information 66 can be any information as long as it is information indicating the history of the additional information 52 being changed.

[0079] The recording unit 42C determines whether a condition for recording the history information 66 in the image file 16 (hereinafter referred to as a "history information recording condition") is satisfied. As a first example of the history information recording condition, a condition that the history information 66 is updated can be cited. As a second example of the history information recording condition, a condition that an instruction to record the history information 66 in the image file 16 is received through the UI device 34 can be cited.

[0080] When determining that the history information recording condition is satisfied, the recording unit 42C acquires the history information 66 from the NVM 44 and records the acquired history information 66 in the second recording area 56B of the image file 16. Thus, the user can easily grasp the change history of the additional information 52. Furthermore, the user can use the history information 66 recorded in the second recording area 56B to manage or edit the image file 16, etc.

[0081] In the above embodiment, an example is given in which the encrypted information 58 obtained by encrypting the additional information 52 is recorded in the second recording area 56B, but the technology of the present invention is not limited to this. Fig.10 As shown, the subject distance information 52D1 may be recorded in the second recording area 56B, or the subject position information 68 may be recorded in the second recording area 56B.

[0082] exist Fig.10 In the example shown, the acquisition unit 42A acquires the shooting condition information 52D from the first recording area 56A of the image file 16, and extracts the subject distance information 52D1 from the acquired shooting condition information 52D. Furthermore, the recording unit 42C records the subject distance information 52D1 extracted from the shooting condition information 52D by the acquisition unit 42A in the second recording area 56B of the image file 16.

[0083] Thus, in the first recording area 56A, the subject distance information 52D1 can be managed together with other information included in the additional information 52, and in the second recording area 56B, the subject distance information 52D1 can be managed in a state separated from the additional information 52 of the first recording area 56A. Furthermore, in the first recording area 56A, the subject distance information 52D1 is managed together with other information included in the shooting condition information 52D as one item, and in the second recording area 56B, the subject distance information 52D1 can be managed separately from the shooting condition information 52D.

[0084] In addition, here, the example in which the subject distance information 52D1 is recorded in the second recording area 56B is given, but this is only an example, and other information included in the additional information 52 may be recorded in the second recording area 56B, and other information included in the shooting condition information 52D in the additional information 52 may be recorded in the second recording area 56B. Furthermore, a plurality of information included in the additional information 52 may be recorded in the second recording area 56B in a state divided for each designated category.

[0085] exist Fig.10 In the example shown, the subject position information 68 is information indicating the position of the photographing target area 12 (here, as an example, the latitude and longitude of the photographing target area 12), and is calculated by the acquisition unit 42A. The acquisition unit 42A acquires the camera position information 52B and the direction information 52C from the first recording area 56A of the image file 16. Furthermore, the acquisition unit 42A calculates the subject position information 68 based on the subject distance information 52D1 extracted from the photographing condition information 52D, the camera position information 52B, and the direction information 52C. The recording unit 42C records the subject position information 68 calculated by the acquisition unit 42A in the second recording area 56B of the image file 16.

[0086] So, in Fig.10 In the example shown, the subject distance information 52D1, the camera position information 52B, and the subject position information 68 derived from the orientation information 52C obtained by dividing the additional information 52 are recorded in the second recording area 56B of the image file 16. The subject position information 68 is information not recorded in the first recording area 56A. Therefore, the subject position information 68 recorded in the second recording area 56B, which is information not recorded in the first recording area 56A, is used by the user to manage or edit the image file 16, etc., thereby improving the convenience of the image file 16 for the user.

[0087] exist Fig.10In the example shown, the subject distance information 52D1 is recorded in the second recording area 56B without being associated with other information, and the subject position information 68 is recorded in the second recording area 56B without being associated with other information. However, this is only an example. Fig.11 As shown, the shooting condition information 52D for obtaining the subject distance information 52D1 may be recorded in the second recording area 56B in a state where it is associated with the subject distance information 52D1. The second recording area 56B may have a directory structure. In this case, for example, the shooting condition information 52D may be stored in a higher directory, and the subject distance information 52D1 may be stored in a lower directory than the shooting condition information 52D. In this case, the shooting condition information 52D and the subject distance information 52D1 can be managed comprehensively in a state where the master-slave relationship between the shooting condition information 52D and the subject distance information 52D1 can be understood.

[0088] In addition, in the same manner, the subject distance information 52D1, the azimuth information 52C, and the camera position information 52B for obtaining the subject position information 68 may be recorded in the second recording area 56B in a state associated with the subject position information 68. In this case, for example, the subject distance information 52D1, the azimuth information 52C, and the camera position information 52B may be stored in a higher directory, and the subject position information 68 may be stored in a lower directory than the subject distance information 52D1, the azimuth information 52C, and the camera position information 52B. In this case, the subject distance information 52D1, the azimuth information 52C, the camera position information 52B, and the subject position information 68 can be managed in an integrated manner while the master-slave relationship between the subject distance information 52D1, the azimuth information 52C, the camera position information 52B, and the subject position information 68 can be understood.

[0089] Here, a two-level directory is illustrated, but this is only an example, and various information may be stored in directories at or above three levels in a master-slave relationship. For example, the subject position information 68 is information calculated based on the subject distance information 52D1, so the shooting condition information 52D for obtaining the subject distance information 52D1 may be stored in the first-level directory, the subject distance information 52D1 may be stored in the second-level directory, and the subject position information 68 may be stored in the third-level directory.

[0090] In the above embodiment, the additional information 52 acquired by the acquisition unit 42A is recorded in the first recording area 56A of the image file 16 unconditionally, but the technology of the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the additional information 52 acquired by the acquisition unit 42A may be recorded in the first recording area 56A according to an instruction received by the UI device 34.

[0091] In this case, for example, in the imaging device 10, a first receiving step and a third recording step are performed. The first receiving step is a step of receiving an instruction on whether to record the additional information 52 in the first recording area 56A. The third recording step is a step of recording the additional information 52 in the first recording area 56A when an instruction to record the additional information 52 in the first recording area 56A is received in the first receiving step. Here, the first receiving step is an example of the "receiving step" involved in the technology of the present invention, and the third recording step is an example of the "recording step" involved in the technology of the present invention.

[0092] exist Fig.12 In the example shown, when the UI device 34 receives the recording instruction 70 to record the additional information 52 in the first recording area 56A, the recording unit 42C records the additional information 52 acquired by the acquisition unit 42A in the first recording area 56A. Thus, the additional information 52 can be recorded in the first recording area 56A at a time desired by the user.

[0093] exist Fig.12 In the example shown, the example of recording all the additional information 52 in the first recording area 56A is given, but this is only an example. For example, multiple information included in the additional information 52 (for example, shooting time information 52A, camera position information 52B, direction information 52C, shooting condition information 52D or subject distance information 52D1 included in the shooting condition information 52D) can also be specified by the user via the UI device 34 and the specified information is recorded in the second recording area 56B. Here, the multiple information is an example of "multiple recorded information" involved in the technology of the present invention.

[0094] In addition, the designated information may not be recorded in the first recording area 56A. By not recording the designated information in the first recording area 56A, the capacity of the image file 16 can be reduced. Furthermore, in the past, the information required by the user among the additional information 52 recorded in the first recording area 56A can be recorded in the second recording area 56B with a high degree of recording freedom. Furthermore, in the past, by also recording the derived information (for example, the encryption information 58, the recording time information 62, the history information 66, and the subject position information 68) not recorded in the first recording area 56A in the second recording area 56B, the important information is collected in the second recording area 56B, thereby improving the convenience of the image file 16.

[0095] Furthermore, a plurality of information collected in units of items designated by the user from the additional information 52 (for example, one or more sets of information divided in units of items designated by the user) may be recorded in the first recording area 56A or in the second recording area 56B. In this way, by recording the information designated by the user in the first recording area 56A or in the second recording area 56B, the convenience of the image file 16 for the user is improved.

[0096] exist Fig.12 In the example shown, when the recording instruction 70 is received by the UI device 34, all the additional information 52 is recorded in the first recording area 56A by the recording unit 42C, but the technology of the present invention is not limited to this. For example, even information that is determined not to be recorded in the first recording area 56A among the multiple information included in the additional information 52 can be recorded in the second recording area 56B according to the instruction received by the UI device 34.

[0097] In this case, for example, the second receiving step and the fourth recording step are executed in the imaging device 10. The second receiving step is an example of the "receiving step" involved in the technology of the present invention, and the fourth recording step is an example of the "recording step" involved in the technology of the present invention.

[0098] The second receiving step is a step of receiving an instruction as to whether to record information determined as not to be recorded in the first recording area 56A among the plurality of information included in the additional information 52 in the first recording area 56A. The fourth recording step is a step of recording information determined as not to be recorded in the first recording area 56A among the plurality of information included in the additional information 52 in the first recording area 56A according to the instruction received in the second receiving step.

[0099] exist Fig.13In the example shown, a reference table 72 is stored in the NVM 44. The reference table 72 contains information that can determine information that is allowed to be recorded in the first recording area 56A and information that is not allowed to be recorded in the first recording area 56A among the multiple information included in the additional information 52. Basically, the recording unit 42C filters the multiple information included in the additional information 52 acquired by the acquisition unit 42A according to the reference table 72 and records it in the first recording area 56A. That is, the recording unit 42C refers to the reference table 72, does not record the information that is not allowed to be recorded in the first recording area 56A among the multiple information included in the additional information 52 acquired by the acquisition unit 42A in the first recording area 56A, and records the information that is allowed to be recorded in the first recording area 56A in the first recording area 56A.

[0100] Here, when the UI device 34 receives the instruction 74 for recording information not permitted to be recorded in the first recording area 56A in the reference table 72, the recording unit 42C records the information not permitted to be recorded in the first recording area 56A in the reference table 72 in the first recording area 56A. Fig.13 In the example shown, in the reference table 72, the shooting time information 52A and the camera position information 52B are not allowed to be recorded in the first recording area 56A, but when the recording instruction 74 is received by the UI device 34, the recording unit 42C records the shooting time information 52A and the camera position information 52B in the first recording area 56A.

[0101] Thus, even the additional information 52 (in Fig.13 In the example shown, the additional information 52 is the shooting time information 52A and the camera position information 52B. If the user wishes, the additional information 52 can also be recorded in the first recording area 56A. As a result, the convenience of the image file 16 is improved for the user.

[0102] In the above embodiment, an example in which the hash function 60 is not recorded in the second recording area 56B of the image file 16 is given, but the technology of the present invention is not limited to this. Fig.14 As shown, the hash function 60 used for encrypting the additional information 52 may be recorded in the second recording area 56B by the recording unit 42C.

[0103] In the above embodiment, the encryption information 58 is recorded in the second recording area 56B of the image file 16, but the technology of the present invention is not limited to this. Fig.15As shown, re-encrypted information 76 obtained by encrypting the encrypted information 58 (ie, hash value) may be recorded in the second recording area 56B of the image file 16. Here, the re-encrypted information 76 is an example of "encrypted information" involved in the technology of the present invention.

[0104] exist Fig.15 In the example shown, the encryption unit 42B generates a private key 78 and generates a public key 80 corresponding to the private key 78. The public key 80 is stored in the storage device 82 by the encryption unit 42B. The storage device 82 is a device (for example, a server or a personal computer) connected to the camera device 10 via a network so as to be communicable. The encryption unit 42B generates a URL (Uniform Resource Locator) 84 that can identify the location where the public key 80 is stored (for example, the location where the public key 80 is stored by the storage device 82). The recording unit 42C records the hash function 60, the re-encryption information 76, and the URL 84 in the second recording area 56B of the image file 16.

[0105] The re-encrypted information 76 recorded in the second recording area 56B is information obtained by further encrypting the encrypted information 58. That is, the re-encrypted information 76 is information obtained by doubly encrypting the additional information 52. Therefore, compared with the case where the additional information 52 is directly recorded in the second recording area 56B or the encrypted information 58 is recorded in the second recording area 56B, higher security can be achieved. In addition, the user can obtain the public key 80 from the storage device 82 by using the URL 84 recorded in the second recording area 56B. Therefore, the registered user who handles the image file 16 can easily obtain the public key 80.

[0106] Here, the example in which the URL 84 is recorded in the second recording area 56B is described, but this is only an example, and the public key 80 may also be recorded in the second recording area 56B. In this case, the user can quickly obtain the public key 80.

[0107] In the above embodiment, the additional information 52 recorded in the first recording area 56A of the image file 16 is taken as an example for explanation, but the technology of the present invention is not limited to this. Fig.16 As shown, even when a plurality of additional information is recorded in the first recording area 56A of the image file 16, the technique of the present invention is established.

[0108] exist Fig.16In the example shown, first additional information 86 is recorded as additional information in the first recording area 56A of the image file 16. The first additional information 86 is additional information related to the artist, and includes owner information 86A, photographer information 86B, and editor information 86C. The owner information 86 is information related to the owner of the imaging device 10. The photographer information 86B is information related to the photographer 14. The editor information 86C is information related to the editor who edited the image file 16.

[0109] The UI device 34 receives the designated information 92. The designated information is information that specifies the division of a portion of the first additional information 86 recorded in the first recording area 56A. When the designated information 92 is received by the UI device 34, the recording unit 42C records the derived information (for example, a portion of the information specified by the designated information 92 from the holder information 86A, the photographer information 86B, and the editor information 86C) obtained by dividing a portion of the multiple information included in the first additional information 86 (the holder information 86A, the photographer information 86B, and the editor information 86C) in the second recording area 56B. Fig.16 In the example shown, a part of the first additional information 86, that is, derived information derived from the first additional information 86 (in Fig.16 In the example shown, the owner information 86A is recorded by the recording unit 42C in the second recording area 56B as the second additional information 88. Thus, when the first additional information 86 recorded in the first recording area 56A includes a plurality of information, the information desired by the user can be divided from the first additional information 86 and recorded in the second recording area 56B.

[0110] exist Fig.16 In the example shown, the information specified in the plurality of information included in the first additional information 86 is recorded in the second recording area 56B, but the technology of the present invention is not limited to this. For example, derived information derived from one or more information specified in the plurality of information included in the first additional information 86 may be recorded in the second recording area 56B.

[0111] In the above-mentioned embodiment, an example of recording the additional information 52 in the first recording area 56A is given for explanation, but the technology of the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the additional information 52 is information that can be recorded in the first recording area 56A, but it can also be recorded in the second recording area 56B instead of the first recording area 56A. Furthermore, the additional information 52 is information that can be recorded in the first recording area 56A, but it can also be recorded in the second recording area 56B instead of the first recording area 56A. In addition, as an example of information that the additional information 52 can record in the first recording area 56A, information of items previously recorded in the first recording area 56A (for example, the APP1 area) can be given.

[0112] In the above embodiment, an example of recording the information obtained by encrypting the additional information 52 in the second recording area 56B as derived information derived from the additional information 52 is given, but the technology of the present invention is not limited to this. For example, reliability information as one of the derived information may be recorded in the second recording area 56B in a state associated with information obtained by encrypting the additional information 52 or the additional information 52 (hereinafter, these are also referred to as "recorded information"). Reliability information is an example of "derivative information" and "recorded information" involved in the technology of the present invention.

[0113] Reliability information refers to information indicating the reliability of recorded information. For example, recorded information with a high degree of modification or deletion can be said to be information with low reliability. Conversely, recorded information with a low degree of modification or deletion can be said to be information with high reliability. The reliability of recorded information depends on the source of the recorded information. That is, the source of the recorded information can be an indicator for users of the image file 16 and the like to judge the reliability of the recorded information.

[0114] For example, if the source of the recorded information is a highly secure source (for example, a source that is difficult to modify or delete the recorded information), the user of the image file 16 can determine that the reliability of the recorded information is also high. If the source of the recorded information is a low-security source (for example, a source that is easy to modify or delete the recorded information), the user of the image file 16 can determine that the reliability of the recorded information is also low.

[0115] As an example of a source with high security, a network can be cited. As an example of a source with lower security than the network (i.e., a source that is more easily intervened by a third party than the network), a UI device 34 or a readable and writable memory (e.g., NVM 44) can be cited. In this case, the record information obtained by manual input or the record information obtained from the readable and writable memory can be said to be record information with low reliability compared to the record information obtained through the network. Therefore, as an example of reliability information, information related to whether the record information is information obtained through the network can be cited. In this way, if the reliability information, which is one of the derived information, is recorded in the second recording area 56B in a state associated with the record information, the security of the record information can be improved, and as a result, the security of the image file 16 is improved.

[0116] In the above-mentioned embodiment, the computer 30 in the imaging device 10 is used to perform the image file creation process, but the technology of the present invention is not limited to this. Fig.17 As shown, the image file creation process may also be executed by a computer 98 in an external device 96 that is communicably connected to the imaging device 10 via a network 94. As an example of the computer 98, a server computer for a cloud service can be cited. The computer 98 is an example of an "image file creation device" and a "computer" involved in the technology of the present invention.

[0117] exist Fig.17 In the illustrated example, the computer 98 includes a processor 100, an NVM 102, and a RAM 104. The NVM 102 stores an image file creation program 50.

[0118] The camera 10 requests the external device 96 to execute the image file creation process via the network 94. In response, the processor 100 of the external device 96 reads the image file creation program 50 from the NVM 102 and executes the image file creation program 50 on the RAM 104. The processor 100 performs the image file creation process according to the image file creation program 50 executed on the RAM 104. Furthermore, the processor 100 provides the processing result obtained by executing the image file creation process to the camera 10 via the network 94.

[0119] exist Fig.17 , an example of a method of causing the external device 96 to execute the image file creation process is shown, but this is only an example. For example, the image capture device 10 and the external device 96 may execute the image file creation process in a distributed manner, or the image capture device 10 and a plurality of devices including the external device 96 may execute the image file creation process in a distributed manner.

[0120] As an example of the data structure of the image file 16 illustrated in the above embodiment, for example, Fig.18As shown, the data structure of a JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) file corresponding to Exif ver3.0 (Exif3.0) can be cited. Here, a JPEG file is illustrated, but this is just an example, and the image file is not limited to a JPEG file.

[0121] In JPEG XT Part 3, which is a type of JPEG, marker segments "APP1 area" and "APP11 area" are provided as areas where additional information can be added. Tag information related to the shooting date and time, shooting location, shooting conditions, etc. of the image data 18 is stored in "APP1". "APP11" includes a JUMBF (JPEG Universal Metadata box format) box (specifically, for example, a JUMBF1 and JUMBF2 box) box as a storage area for metadata. In the JUMBF1 box, there is a Content Type box for storing metadata, and text information can be recorded in the JSON format in this area. The recording method of metadata is not limited to the JSON format, and it can also be XML (Extensible Markup Language) format. In addition, in the JUMBF2 box, information different from that in the JUMBF1 box can be recorded in the Content Type box. In a JPEG file, about 60,000 JUMBF boxes as described above can be created.

[0122] Furthermore, in the data structure of Exif3.0, the area (for example, APP11 area) to which additional information can be attached is expanded compared to the old version of Exif2.32. Specifically, a frame area that complies with JUMBF is added. In this frame area, multiple levels can be set. In this case, the additional information can be stored (i.e., written) by changing the content or abstraction of the information according to the order of the levels. For example, the type of the subject reflected in the image data 18 can be written in a higher level level, and the state or attribute of the subject can be written in a lower level level. In this way, the APP11 area as an example of the second recording area 56B has a higher degree of freedom in recording than the APP1 area as an example of the first recording area 56A, and is an area suitable for recording multiple additional information specified by the user.

[0123] In the above embodiment, an example in which the image file creation program 50 is stored in the NVM 44 is given for explanation, but the technology of the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the image file creation program 50 can be stored in a non-temporary storage medium readable by a portable computer such as an SSD (Solid State Drive), a USB memory, or a magnetic tape. The image file creation program 50 stored in the non-temporary storage medium is installed in the camera device 10. The processor 42 executes the image file creation process according to the image file creation program 50.

[0124] Alternatively, the image file creation program 50 may be stored in advance in a storage device such as another computer or server device connected to the imaging device 10 via a network, and downloaded in response to a request from the imaging device 10 and installed in the imaging device 10 .

[0125] The storage device such as another computer or server device connected to the imaging device 10 or the NVM 44 does not need to store all of the image file creation program 50 in advance, and a part of the image file creation program 50 may be stored in advance.

[0126] And, in Figure 2 The imaging device 10 shown in the figure has a built-in computer 30 , but the technology of the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, the computer 30 may be provided outside the imaging device 10 .

[0127] In the above-mentioned embodiments, the technology of the present invention is described by citing an example of a method of realizing the technology of the present invention through a software structure, but the technology of the present invention is not limited to this, and devices including ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) or PLD (Programmable Logic Device) can also be applied. In addition, a combination of hardware structure and software structure can be used.

[0128] As hardware resources for executing the image file creation process described in the above embodiment, various processors shown below can be used. As a processor, for example, a general-purpose processor CPU that functions as a hardware resource for executing the image file creation process by executing software, that is, a program can be cited. Also, as a processor, for example, a processor having a circuit structure specially designed for executing a specific process, that is, a dedicated circuit, such as FPGA, PLD, or ASIC can be cited. Each processor has a built-in or connected memory, and each processor executes the image file creation process by using the memory.

[0129] The hardware resource for executing the image file creation process may be composed of one of these various processors, or may be composed of a combination of two or more processors of the same or different types (for example, a combination of multiple FPGAs or a combination of a CPU and an FPGA). Furthermore, the hardware resource for executing the image file creation process may also be a single processor.

[0130] As an example of a processor, there is first a method in which a processor is composed of a combination of one or more CPUs and software and the processor functions as a hardware resource for executing image file creation processing. There is second a method in which a processor that realizes the overall function of a system including multiple hardware resources for executing image file creation processing is implemented by using a single IC (Integrated Circuit) chip represented by SoC (System-on-a-chip). In this way, the image file creation processing is implemented using one or more of the above-mentioned processors as hardware resources.

[0131] Furthermore, as the hardware structure of these various processors, more specifically, a circuit composed of a combination of circuit elements such as semiconductor elements can be used. Furthermore, the above-mentioned image file creation process is only an example. Therefore, it is of course possible to delete unnecessary steps, add new steps, or change the processing order within the scope of the main purpose.

[0132] In addition, here, the image file creation processing performed by the imaging device 10 is described, but the same content can also be said about the image file creation processing performed by the receiving device 24.

[0133] The recorded contents and illustrated contents shown above are detailed descriptions of the parts involved in the technology of the present invention, and are only an example of the technology of the present invention. For example, the descriptions related to the above-mentioned structure, function, action and effect are descriptions related to an example of the structure, function, action and effect of the parts involved in the technology of the present invention. Therefore, without departing from the scope of the main purpose of the technology of the present invention, the recorded contents and illustrated contents shown above can be processed as follows: delete unnecessary parts, add new elements or replace them. In addition, in order to avoid complexity and make it easy to understand the parts involved in the technology of the present invention, in the recorded contents and illustrated contents shown above, descriptions related to technical common sense, etc. that do not need to be specifically explained are omitted on the basis of being able to implement the technology of the present invention.

[0134] In this specification, the grammatical concept of "A or B" includes not only the concept of "any one of A and B", but also the concept with the same meaning as "at least one of A and B". That is, "A or B" includes the following meanings: it can be only A, it can be only B, or it can be a combination of A and B. Furthermore, in this specification, even when three or more things are expressed by connecting "or", the same way of thinking as "A or B" is applied.

[0135] All documents, patent applications, and technical standards described in this specification are incorporated herein by reference to the same extent as if each document, patent application, and technical standard was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

[0136] Regarding the above embodiment, the following supplementary notes are further disclosed.

[0137] (Note 1)

[0138] A method for creating an image file, comprising:

[0139] an acquisition step of acquiring recording information including additional information that can be recorded in a first recording area of ​​an image file or derived information derived from the additional information; and

[0140] The recording step records the recording information in the second recording area of ​​the image file.

[0141] (Note 2)

[0142] The image file creation method according to Supplement 1, wherein:

[0143] Additional information is recorded in the first recording area.

[0144] The record information contains additional information.

[0145] (Note 3)

[0146] The image file creation method according to Supplement 2 comprises:

[0147] an accepting step of accepting whether to record the additional information in the first recording area,

[0148] In the recording step, the additional information is recorded in the first recording area when the recording instruction is received in the receiving step.

[0149] (Note 4)

[0150] The image file creation method according to Supplement 3, wherein:

[0151] In the receiving step, whether or not the additional information determined as information not to be recorded in the first recording area is to be recorded in the first recording area is received.

[0152] (Note 5)

[0153] The image file creation method according to any one of Supplement 1 to Supplement 4, wherein:

[0154] The recorded information contains derived information.

[0155] (Note 6)

[0156] The image file creation method according to any one of Supplement 1 to Supplement 5, wherein:

[0157] The derived information is encrypted information obtained by encrypting the additional information.

[0158] (Note 7)

[0159] The image file creation method according to Supplement 6, wherein:

[0160] The encrypted information is a hash value or information obtained by encrypting a hash value.

[0161] (Note 8)

[0162] The image file creation method according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 7, wherein:

[0163] The derived information is information obtained by dividing the additional information.

[0164] (Note 9)

[0165] The image file creation method according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 8, wherein:

[0166] The derived information is historical information related to the change history of the additional information.

[0167] (Note 10)

[0168] The image file creation method according to any one of Supplement 1 to Supplement 9, wherein:

[0169] In the recording step, time information related to the time when the record information is recorded in the second recording area is recorded.

[0170] (Note 11)

[0171] The image file creation method according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 10, wherein:

[0172] In the recording step, a portion of the recording information designated from the plurality of recording information is recorded in the second recording area.

[0173] (Note 12)

[0174] The image file creation method according to any one of appendices 1 to 11, wherein the first recording area is an area for recording information in a binary format, and the second recording area is an area for recording information in a text format.

[0175] (Note 13)

[0176] The image file creation method according to any one of Annexes 1 to 12, wherein the image file is a JPEG format file,

[0177] The first recording area is the APP1 area of ​​the format file.

[0178] The second recording area is an area of ​​the format file other than the APP1 area of ​​the format file.

Claims

1. A method for creating an image file, comprising: an acquisition step of acquiring recording information including additional information that can be recorded in a first recording area of ​​an image file or derived information derived from the additional information; and The recording step records the recording information in the second recording area of ​​the image file.

2. The image file creation method according to claim 1, wherein: The additional information is recorded in the first recording area. The record information includes the additional information.

3. The image file creation method according to claim 2, wherein: The method comprises a receiving step of receiving whether to record the additional information in the first recording area, In the recording step, the additional information is recorded in the first recording area when a recording instruction is received in the receiving step.

4. The image file creation method according to claim 3, wherein: In the receiving step, whether or not the additional information determined as information not to be recorded in the first recording area is to be recorded in the first recording area is received.

5. The image file creation method according to claim 1, wherein: The record information includes the derived information.

6. The image file creation method according to claim 1, wherein: The derived information is encrypted information obtained by encrypting the additional information.

7. The image file creation method according to claim 6, wherein: The encrypted information is a hash value or information obtained by encrypting the hash value.

8. The image file creation method according to claim 1, wherein: The derived information is information obtained by dividing the additional information.

9. The image file creation method according to claim 1, wherein: The derived information is historical information related to the change history of the additional information.

10. The image file creation method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein: In the recording step, time information related to the time when the record information is recorded in the second recording area is recorded.

11. The image file creation method according to claim 1, wherein: In the recording step, a portion of the record information specified from the plurality of the record information is recorded in the second recording area.

12. The image file creation method according to claim 1, wherein: The first recording area is an area for recording information in binary format. The second recording area is an area for recording information in a text format.

13. The image file creation method according to claim 1, wherein: The image file is a JPEG format file. The first recording area is the APP1 area of ​​the format file. The second recording area is an area of ​​the format file other than the APP1 area of ​​the format file.

14. An image file comprising: A first recording area capable of recording additional information; and The second recording area, Recording information including the additional information or derived information derived from the additional information is recorded in the second recording area.

15. An image file creation device, comprising a processor, wherein: The processor performs the following processing: acquiring recording information including additional information that can be recorded in a first recording area of ​​an image file or derived information derived from the additional information, The record information is recorded in the second record area of ​​the image file.

16. A program for causing a computer to execute a process, wherein: The processing includes: an acquisition step of acquiring recording information including additional information that can be recorded in a first recording area of ​​an image file or derived information derived from the additional information; and The recording step records the recording information in the second recording area of ​​the image file.

Images