Information management apparatus, method, program, and information management system

Abstract

The present application provides an information management device, method and program, and an information management system capable of inhibiting duplication of an image distributed to a user and imparting value. A distribution server (100) functioning as an information management device is provided with: a processor; and a memory storing a plurality of images for printing and first information related to distribution of the images, the processor of the distribution server (100) performing the following processing: accepting, from a user terminal (200), a print request for an image selected from the plurality of images; and determining, based on the first information stored in the memory, whether the same image as the image of the print request has been printed out by a printer of the same user in the past. Then, in a case where it is determined that the same image has been printed out, distribution of the image for which the print request has been accepted to the user terminal is inhibited, and in a case where it is determined that the same image has not been printed out, a unique ID of the image for which the print request has been accepted is imparted to the image and distributed to the user terminal (200).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an information management device, method and procedure, and an information management system. Background Technology

[0002] Patent document 1 describes a printing system that improves the security of printed data by controlling the printing data requested via a communication line to be printed only on a specific printing device.

[0003] The printing system described in Patent Document 1 includes a window terminal, a print data generation server, and one or more printing devices. The window terminal sends user-specific information and print device identification information for identifying the printing device as print data request information via a network to the print data generation server. The print data generation server sends print control information, including print permission information that only allows the printing device corresponding to the print device identification information included in the print data request information to print the print data, and print data generated based on the specific information included in the print data request information, to the terminal via the network. The control unit of the terminal causes the printing device to print based on the print permission information included in the print control information.

[0004] Therefore, it is possible to control the printing data to be printed only on specific printing devices, prevent it from being printed on unspecified printing devices, and improve the security of printing data.

[0005] Furthermore, Patent Document 2 describes a content provision device that suppresses unauthorized access to content through simple processing.

[0006] The content providing apparatus described in Patent Document 2 includes: an acquisition unit that acquires the printer ID (identification) of a printer used by a user for utilizing content (image); a first transmission unit that transmits an image (QR code: registered trademark) based on the printer ID to a user terminal; a receiving unit that receives first data (text data represented by the QR code: printer ID) generated by reading the QR code on the user terminal and second data (user terminal ID) for determining the printer ID from a reading device; and a second transmission unit that provides content to the user if the printer ID determined based on the QR code represented by the first data matches the printer ID determined based on the second data (user terminal ID).

[0007] Therefore, the content providing device can prevent third parties from illegally obtaining content.

[0008] Previous technical documents

[0009] Patent documents

[0010] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2006-23821

[0011] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-131267 Summary of the Invention

[0012] One embodiment of the present invention provides an information management apparatus, method, and procedure, as well as an information management system, capable of suppressing the copying of images distributed to users and assigning value.

[0013] means for solving technical problems

[0014] The invention involved in the first aspect is an information management device comprising: a processor; and a memory storing a plurality of images for printing and first information related to the distribution of the images. The processor performs the following processing: receiving a printing request for an image selected from the plurality of images from a first user terminal of a first user; determining, based on the first information and the printing request, whether to distribute the selected image to the first user terminal; if it is determined that the selected image should be distributed, assigning unique identification information of the selected image to the selected image and distributing it to the first user terminal; and if the image has been distributed, updating the first information stored in the memory.

[0015] The information management device involved in the second aspect of the present invention is preferably in the first aspect, in which the processor embeds unique identification information as an electronic watermark or code data into the image.

[0016] In the third aspect of the present invention, the information management device, in the first or second aspect, suppresses the distribution of the image receiving the print request to the first user terminal when the processor determines that the image has been printed.

[0017] In any of the first to third embodiments of the information management device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, the processor performs the following processing: based on the first information stored in the memory, it determines whether the same image as the image requested for printing was previously printed by the same first user through the first printer.

[0018] The information management device involved in the fifth aspect of the present invention is preferably in any one of the first to fourth aspects, wherein the first information includes: image recognition information of the distributed image; and printer identification information of the first printer, wherein the first printer is connected to the first user terminal, inputs the image distributed via the first user terminal, and prints the image.

[0019] In any of the first to fifth embodiments of the information management device according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention, the owner information of the owner of the printed output of the image representing the printing request, i.e., the photo print, is stored in the memory in association with the unique identification information. The processor performs the following processing: the first user terminal reads the unique identification information from the photo print, and receives the read unique identification information and second information related to the owner of the photo print from the first user terminal; reads the owner information from the memory according to the unique identification information and the second information; and sends the owner information to the first user terminal and displays the owner information on the display of the first user terminal.

[0020] The information management device involved in the seventh aspect of the present invention is preferably in the sixth aspect, wherein the owner information includes at least one of the owner's name of the photo print and the first printer identification information of the first printer that prints the photo print.

[0021] In any of the first to seventh embodiments of the present invention, the information management device according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention stores content corresponding to multiple images in a memory, and the processor performs the following processing: a first user terminal reads unique identification information from the printed output of the image of the printing request, i.e., the photo print, and receives the read unique identification information from the first user terminal; reads the content corresponding to the image identified according to the unique identification information from the memory; and distributes the content to the first user terminal and outputs the content from the first user terminal.

[0022] In any of the first to eighth embodiments of the information management device according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention, the memory stores, in association with unique identification information, the owner information of the owner of the printed output of the image representing the printing request, i.e., the photo print, and the content corresponding to each of the multiple images. The processor performs the following processing: the first user terminal reads the unique identification information from the photo print, and receives the read unique identification information and information related to the owner information from the first user terminal; determines whether the owner is the owner of the photo print based on the received information related to the owner information and the owner information stored in the memory; if the owner is determined to be the owner of the photo print, reads the content corresponding to the image determined according to the unique identification information or the supplementary information including the content and the owner information from the memory; and distributes the read supplementary information to the first user terminal and outputs the supplementary information from the first user terminal.

[0023] In any of the first to ninth embodiments of the present invention, the information management device according to the tenth embodiment stores in a memory the owner information of the owner of the printed output of the image representing the printing request, i.e., the photo print, and the content corresponding to each of the multiple images, in association with the unique identification information. The processor performs the following processing: the third user terminal reads the unique identification information from the photo print and receives the read unique identification information and information related to the owner information from the third user terminal; determines whether the owner is the owner of the photo print based on the received information related to the owner information and the owner information stored in the memory; if it is determined that the owner is not the owner of the photo print, reads the content corresponding to the image determined according to the unique identification information or the pre-authorized ancillary information from the ancillary information including the content and the owner information from the memory; and distributes the read ancillary information to the third user terminal and outputs the ancillary information from the third user terminal.

[0024] The information management device according to the 11th aspect of the present invention is preferably in any one of the 8th to 10th aspects, and the content includes at least one of a dynamic image provided by a provider of a printable image in association with the image and a message based on voice or text.

[0025] The information management device according to the 12th aspect of the present invention preferably performs the following processing in any of the 6th to 11th aspects: receiving ancillary information of an image used in a photo print from a first user terminal; and storing the received ancillary information in memory in association with the image.

[0026] The information management device according to the 13th aspect of the present invention is preferably in any one of the 6th to 12th aspects, wherein the processor performs the following processing: receiving editing information of ancillary information of an image used in a photo printout edited from a first user terminal; and updating the ancillary information stored in the memory in association with the image to ancillary information edited according to the editing information.

[0027] The information management device according to the 14th aspect of the present invention is preferably in the 6th, 7th, 9th or 10th aspect, wherein the first information includes: image recognition information of the distributed image; and first printer identification information of the first printer, the first printer being connected to the first user terminal, the distributed image being input and printed out via the first user terminal, and the processor performing the following processing: receiving information indicating that ownership of the photo print has been transferred from the first user to the second user and second printer identification information of the second printer owned by the second user from the first user terminal or the second user terminal of the second user; and changing the owner information stored in the memory to the owner information of the second user, and adding second printer identification information in addition to the first printer identification information included in the first information.

[0028] In the 15th aspect of the present invention, the information management device preferably operates in the 14th aspect, wherein the processor performs the following processing: when a printing request for an image corresponding to a photo print is received from a first user terminal of a first user who was previously the owner of the photo print or a second user terminal of a second user who has become the current owner of the photo print through a transfer of ownership, the distribution of the image to the first user terminal or the second user terminal receiving the printing request is suppressed based on the first information stored in the memory.

[0029] The invention involved in the 16th aspect is an information management system, which includes an information management device according to any one of the 1st to 15th aspects and a first user terminal communicating with the information management device. The first user terminal is equipped with a first application software, and the first user terminal performs the following processing through the functions of the first application software: when receiving the distribution of a printable image from the information management device, outputting the image to a first printer connected to the first user terminal and printing the image through the first printer; and suppressing the storage of the printable image in the first user terminal or in the first printer.

[0030] The information management system according to the 17th aspect of the present invention is preferably in the 16th aspect, wherein the first user terminal performs the following processing: receiving an image for selecting a printable image from an information management device; displaying the received image on a display screen; when receiving a selection of an image corresponding to the printable image based on a user operation using the image displayed on the display screen, sending a print request including the identification information of the received image and the printer identification information of the first printer to the information management device; and adding text to the image displayed on the display screen or performing processing that degrades the image quality.

[0031] The information management system according to the 18th aspect of the present invention is preferably in the 16th or 17th aspect, and further includes: a fourth user terminal, which is an image provider and is equipped with a second application software. The fourth user terminal performs the following processing through the functions of the second application software: sending the image for printing and the content related to the image to the information management device; and the information management device attaching image recognition information to the image for printing provided by the image provider, and establishing an association between the image for printing and the content and recording it in the memory.

[0032] In the 19th aspect of the present invention, the information management system preferably performs the following processing in the 18th aspect: receiving the image name of the image for printing through the operation of the image provider; and adding the image name to the image as supplementary information of the image for printing.

[0033] In the 20th aspect of the present invention, the information management system is preferably in the 19th aspect, in which the first user terminal receives a change of the image name attached to the printing image by the image provider through the operation of the first user, and sends the changed image name to the information management device, and the information management device updates the image name attached to the printing image recorded in the memory to the changed image name received from the first user terminal.

[0034] The information management system according to the 21st aspect of the present invention preferably includes any one of the 18th to 20th aspects, wherein the fourth user terminal receives a size specification of one or more sizes of a printable image through the operation of the image provider, and generates an image corresponding to one or more sizes specified in the size specification as a printable image.

[0035] The invention involved in the 22nd method is an information management method, including processing performed by a processor of an information management device, comprising: an information management device: a processor; and a memory storing a plurality of images for printing and first information related to the distribution of the images. The information management method includes: receiving a print request for an image selected from a plurality of images from a first user terminal of a first user; determining, based on the first information stored in the memory, whether an image identical to the image in the print request has been printed in the past by a first printer of the same first user; if it is determined that the image has already been printed, suppressing the distribution of the image with the print request to the first user terminal; if it is determined that the image has not been printed, assigning the image unique identification information of the image with the print request and distributing it to the first user terminal; and if the image has been distributed, updating the first information stored in the memory.

[0036] The invention involved in the 23rd method is an information management program that performs the following functions via a computer: receiving a print request for an image selected from a plurality of printable images stored in memory from a first user terminal of a first user; determining, based on first information stored in memory and first information related to the distribution of the printable image, whether an image identical to the print request image has been printed in the past by the same first user's first printer; if it is determined that the image has already been printed, suppressing the distribution of the received print request image to the first user terminal; if it is determined that the image has not been printed, assigning unique identification information to the image that has received the print request and distributing it to the first user terminal; and if the image has been distributed, updating the first information stored in memory. Attached Figure Description

[0037] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the general outline of the information management system involved in this invention.

[0038] Figure 2 It means Figure 1 The diagram shows the system architecture of the information management system.

[0039] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of the hardware structure of the distribution server and user terminal that function as the information management device involved in this invention.

[0040] Figure 4 It means Figure 3 The diagram shows the functional block diagram of the processor in the distribution server.

[0041] Figure 5 It is a flowchart showing the user operations and processing flow in the user terminal when a new user registers user information.

[0042] Figure 6 This diagram represents the three types of instant film currently in use.

[0043] Figure 7 This is a diagram representing an example of user information managed by the user management database.

[0044] Figure 8 It is a flowchart illustrating the user operations and processing on the user terminal when an image provider uploads images for printing to a distribution server.

[0045] Figure 9 This is a diagram representing an example of printable images and content distributed and managed by an image database.

[0046] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating an implementation of the information management method involved in this invention.

[0047] Figure 11 It is a diagram representing a user terminal screen that displays a sample image for image selection.

[0048] Figure 12 This is a diagram representing an example of information (first information) related to the distribution of images managed by the distribution management DB.

[0049] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing steps in the distribution server and user terminal when viewing and printing images are associated with content.

[0050] Figure 14 It is a diagram representing the initial screen of a user's terminal when viewing content, etc.

[0051] Figure 15 It is a diagram showing the screen of a user terminal when viewing content, etc.

[0052] Figure 16 It means from Figure 13 The flowchart shown is a partial flowchart of a branch.

[0053] Figure 17 It is a diagram representing the screen of a user terminal in dynamic image mode.

[0054] Figure 18 It is a diagram showing the screen of a user terminal in information browsing mode.

[0055] Figure 19 It is a chart that shows a summary of the content and other information that can be viewed using the electronic watermark embedded in the Polaroid print.

[0056] Figure 20 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing steps in the distribution server and user terminal when transferring registered Polaroid prints.

[0057] Figure 21 This is an image showing the user terminal screen during the registration of ownership transfer for Polaroid prints. Detailed Implementation

[0058] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the information management apparatus, method, program, and information management system involved in the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0059] [Information Management System]

[0060] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the general outline of the information management system involved in this invention.

[0061] Figure 1The information management system 10 shown includes a distribution server 100 that functions as an information management device according to the present invention, and user terminals 200-1 and 200-4 that communicate with the distribution server 100 via a network.

[0062] User terminal 200-1 is a terminal owned by a general user who has purchased the right to print images (still images) distributed from distribution server 100. Printer 300-1 can be connected to user terminal 200-1. User terminal 200-1 transmits the images distributed from distribution server 100 to printer 300-1 wirelessly or via wired connection, and printer 300-1 prints the images received from user terminal 200-1 as photo prints (Instax prints) 302.

[0063] Printer 300-1 uses instant film (e.g., "Instant Film" manufactured by FUJIFILM Corporation, "CHEKI" is a registered trademark) as the printing medium. It exposes an image on the exposure area of ​​the instant film through an exposure head and spreads the developer in the exposure area, thereby printing the image on the instant film and outputting it as an instant print 302.

[0064] User terminal 200-4 (the fourth user terminal) is a terminal of a user (image provider) that provides printed images to the distribution server 100, such as a terminal owned by an artist (singer, actor, entertainer, idol, etc.) in the fields of entertainment, music, etc., or a terminal of an artist's agent, etc.

[0065] An electronic watermark is embedded in the instant print 302, including at least the unique identification information (unique ID) that identifies the instant print 302.

[0066] The user of the instant print 302 reads the electronic watermark embedded in the instant print 302 through their user terminal 200-1 and sends the information represented by the electronic watermark (including the information of the unique ID) to the distribution server 100. In this way, the user can receive the auxiliary information associated with the printed image on the instant print 302 (such as the content of the animated image, voice or text message, owner information, image name, etc., associated with the printed image) from the distribution server 100, and play the received content through the user terminal 200-1.

[0067] Figure 2 It means Figure 1 The diagram shows the system architecture of the information management system.

[0068] like Figure 1 As shown, Figure 2The information management system 10 shown includes a distribution server 100 that functions as an information management device and multiple user terminals 200-1 to 200-4 that communicate with the distribution server 100 via a network NW.

[0069] Figure 2 The user terminal (first user terminal) 200-1 shown is a terminal owned by an ordinary user (first user) who distributes images for printing from the distribution server 100 by installing application software (first application software) for receiving distribution services such as images for printing and purchasing the right to print images for printing. The distribution server 100, upon receiving a print request for the desired image from the user terminal 200-1, distributes the image for printing corresponding to the print request to the user terminal 200-1 of the first user who has printing rights.

[0070] The printable image distributed from the distribution server 100 is sent via the user terminal 200-1 to the printer 300-1 (the first printer owned by the first user) connected to the user terminal 200-1, and hereby becomes a Polaroid printout 302 (see reference). Figure 1 The printout was then completed. Therefore, the first user became the original owner of the Polaroid printout 302.

[0071] The user terminal (second user terminal) 200-2 is a terminal belonging to a user (second user) who becomes the new owner through a transfer of ownership, such as the transfer of the instant print 302 owned by the first user. Furthermore, the printer 300-2 is a second printer owned by the second user that can be connected to the user terminal 200-2, and has second printer identification information capable of identifying the second printer.

[0072] User terminal 200-3 (the third user terminal) is a terminal owned by an ordinary user who views (the content associated with the distributed image) and is not limited to the first user and the second user, but also includes user terminals other than the first user and the second user.

[0073] like Figure 1 As explained in the document, user terminal 200-4 is a terminal for image providers such as artists and agents who provide images for printing.

[0074] The image provider uploads images taken by the user terminal 200-4 with shooting capabilities or images selected from images stored in the camera roll to the distribution server 100.

[0075] An image provider application software (second application software) is installed on user terminal 200-4. User terminal 200-4 uploads images processed into printable images by the application software. Furthermore, the image provider uses user terminal 200-4 to upload animated images, messages, and other content associated with the uploaded printable images, along with the printable images, to distribution server 100.

[0076] User terminals 200-1 to 200-4 can be, for example, smartphones with dedicated application software installed for receiving services from this system. User terminals 200-1 and 200-2 have different first application software installed depending on the type of printer 300-1 and 300-2 connected to them (the size, aspect ratio, etc. of the printed image), and user terminal 200-4 is a smartphone with a second application software installed for image providers.

[0077] In addition, the hardware of user terminals 200-1 to 200-4 is not limited to smartphones, but can be used with personal computers, tablets, laptops, etc.

[0078] [Hardware structure of distribution server and user terminal]

[0079] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of the hardware structure of the distribution server and user terminal that function as the information management device involved in this invention.

[0080] <Distribution Server>

[0081] exist Figure 3 In this system, the distribution server 100 is composed of, for example, computers, workstations, etc., including a communication unit 110, a processor 120, a memory 130, a user management database (DB) 140, an image DB 150, and a distribution management DB 160, etc.

[0082] The communication unit 110 communicates with the user terminal 200 (200-1 to 200-4) via the network NW and exchanges the required information.

[0083] The processor 120, consisting of a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and other components, centrally controls the various parts of the distribution server 100. It determines whether to distribute a printable image requested from the user terminal 200 to the user terminal 200. If the distribution is deemed appropriate, it assigns a unique ID to the image and distributes it to the user terminal 200. Furthermore, for browsing requests from the user terminal 200 regarding content associated with the distributed images, it distributes the content to the user terminal 200. Details regarding the processing based on this processor 120 will be described later.

[0084] The memory 130 includes flash memory, ROM (Read-only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), hard disk drive, etc. Flash memory, ROM, or hard disk drive is a non-volatile memory that stores an operating system, including various programs that execute the information management method involved in this invention.

[0085] RAM functions as the working area for processing based on processor 120. It also temporarily stores various programs and data used for computation, stored in flash memory or similar sources. Additionally, processor 120 may also incorporate a portion of memory 130 (RAM).

[0086] User Management DB140 is a database that manages user information related to general users and image providers who utilize the services of this system. Image DB150 is a database that manages multiple images uploaded from the user terminal 200-4 of the image provider and the content associated with each image.

[0087] Furthermore, the distribution management DB160 is a database that manages the distribution history when printing images are distributed to user terminals 200, the names of the distributed images (image names), and owner information indicating the owners of instant prints 302 printed by the user's printers 300 (printers 300-1, 300-2, etc.).

[0088] Furthermore, details regarding the user management DB140, image DB150, and distribution management DB160 will be described later. Also, the hardware for storing the data sets managed by the user management DB140, image DB150, and distribution management DB160 can be the internal memory of the distribution server 100 or external memory accessible by the distribution server 100.

[0089] [User Terminal]

[0090] exist Figure 3 In this context, the user terminal 200 can be, for example, a smartphone owned by a general user, which has a first application software installed that corresponds to the printer 300 connected to the user terminal 200.

[0091] User terminal 200 includes processor 210, memory 220, operation unit 230, wireless communication unit 240, display 250, camera 260, short-range wireless communication unit 270, microphone (not shown), speaker, etc.

[0092] The processor 210, consisting of a CPU and the like, centrally controls the various parts of the user terminal 200 and exchanges various information with the distribution server 100 by implementing the first application software for receiving services provided by the distribution server 100.

[0093] The memory 220 includes flash memory, RAM, and other types of flash memory. Flash memory is a rewritable, non-volatile memory used to store the operating system, application software, etc.

[0094] RAM functions as the working area for processing based on processor 210. It also temporarily stores various programs and data used for computational processing, such as those stored in flash memory. Furthermore, processor 210 may have built-in RAM.

[0095] The operation unit 230 has hardware buttons for turning the power on / off, adjusting the volume, etc., and accepts commands from the user.

[0096] The wireless communication unit 240 is a part that enables wireless communication with external devices through the operator's base station, other access points, and network NW.

[0097] The display 250 is a touch panel display with a touch panel on the display screen. It displays images (still images and moving images) and displays operation icons, buttons, dialog boxes, etc., and functions as a user interface that accepts operation input on the touch panel.

[0098] Camera 260 captures still images and moving images by selecting a shooting mode, but it also functions as a reading device that reads code data (e.g., two-dimensional or one-dimensional codes represented by QR codes (registered trademarks)) through code reading software and reads electronic watermark information through electronic watermark reading software.

[0099] The short-range wireless communication unit 270, such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), is a unit that performs short-range wireless communication with a paired external device. In this example, the short-range wireless communication unit 270 performs short-range wireless communication with a printer 300 owned by the user of the user terminal 200, and functions as a communication unit that sends images for printing to the printer 300.

[0100] As described above, printer 300 uses instant film as the printing medium, exposes an image on the exposure area of ​​the instant film through an exposure head, and spreads the developer in the exposure area, thereby printing the image on the instant film and outputting it as an instant print 302.

[0101] <Processing content of the distribution server>

[0102] Figure 4 It means Figure 3 The diagram shows the functional block diagram of the processor in the distribution server.

[0103] Figure 4 The processor 120 of the distribution server 100 shown functions as a user registration unit 121, an image registration unit 122, a unique ID issuance unit 123, a distribution image generation unit 124, and a distribution control unit 125 by executing various programs including the information management program involved in the present invention.

[0104] The user registration department 121 is a part that obtains user information related to the new user from the user terminal 200 of the new user and manages the user information in the user management DB 140.

[0105] Figure 5 It is a flowchart showing the user operations and processing flow in the user terminal when a new user registers user information.

[0106] exist Figure 5 In the process, the new user causes the user terminal 200 to download the first application software and / or the second application software (step S100).

[0107] Here, the first application software is the application software installed on the user terminal 200 that distributes images for printing from the distribution server 100. It is preferable for new users to install the application software corresponding to the type of printer 300 connected to the user terminal 200 on the user terminal 200.

[0108] For example, a new user accesses the server (distribution server 100 or other service server) that provides the first application software through user terminal 200, determines the type of printer 300 owned by the new user (in this example, the type of instant film used by printer 300), and then installs the application software corresponding to the type of printer 300.

[0109] Figure 6 This diagram represents the three types of instant film currently in use.

[0110] Figure 6 The instant film M shown in (A) is a small format film and is a typical card-sized film.

[0111] Figure 6 The instant film S shown in (B) is a square-format film, and the printed image area is square in size.

[0112] Figure 6 The instant film W shown in (C) is a wide format film and has twice the size (twice the width in the horizontal direction) of the small format instant film M.

[0113] Therefore, when downloading the first application software, it is preferable to select and download the application software that corresponds to the type of instant film used in printer 300.

[0114] The second application software is the application software installed on the user terminal 200 of the image provider. The new image provider uses the user terminal 200 to access the server that provides the second application software and installs the second application software on the user terminal 200 owned by the new user.

[0115] Alternatively, a first application software and a second application software can be installed on a single user terminal 200. In this case, the user terminal 200 functions as a terminal for distributing images for printing from the distribution server 100, and also functions as a terminal for providing images for printing, etc., to the distribution server 100.

[0116] If the download of the first application software and / or the second application software is completed on the user terminal 200, the user starts the first application software and / or the second application software (step S102).

[0117] If the user terminal 200 is initially launched after the installation of the first application software and / or the second application software, the processor 210 of the user terminal 200 displays a user registration screen on the display 250 according to the application software. The user operates the user terminal 200 according to the user registration screen and enters user information (step S104).

[0118] User information entered through the user terminal 200, which has the first application software installed, includes, for example, a username, printer identification information (printer ID) (e.g., the printer's serial number), a terminal ID identifying the user terminal 200, and the user's account. The printer ID can be automatically obtained by the user terminal 200 through communication with the printer 300 during user registration, or it can be visually identified by the printer ID printed on the printer 300's casing and entered via a touch panel. Furthermore, the terminal ID can be one of the device information stored in the user terminal 200, namely the International Mobile Equipment Identifier (IMEI), which the user terminal 200 can automatically obtain through the application software. Additionally, the terminal ID is not limited to the IMEI; any identification information that can identify the user terminal 200 is acceptable.

[0119] Next, it is determined whether the input (acquisition) of user information has ended (step S106). If the input of user information has not ended ("No"), return to step S104 to continue inputting user information. If the input of user information has ended ("Yes"), proceed to step S108.

[0120] In step S108, the processor 210 sends user information to the distribution server 100 and receives a user registration completion notification from the distribution server 100, thereby ending the registration of user information using the user terminal 200.

[0121] Furthermore, user information is not limited to being sent to the distribution server 100 only after the user information input is completed; it can also be sent sequentially to the distribution server 100 each time user information is input. Additionally, some or all of the user information is stored in the memory 220 of the user terminal 200 and can be appropriately retrieved by application software as needed.

[0122] If the processor 120 of the distribution server 100 obtains user information from the user terminal 200 of a new user, the user information is managed by the user management DB 140, and the user information is referenced, edited, and deleted in the user management DB 140.

[0123] Figure 7 This is a diagram representing an example of user information managed by the user management database.

[0124] exist Figure 7 The user management DB140 shown manages usernames, printer IDs, terminal IDs, accounts, phone numbers, etc., for each user. Additionally, the user management DB140 can also manage user age, gender, and information used for billing (e.g., credit card information).

[0125] in addition, Figure 7 The user information shown is related to the user who receives the distribution of images and content for printing, but the user information of the user (image provider) who provides images and content to the distribution server 100 is also managed by the user management DB140.

[0126] Return to Figure 4 The image registration unit 122 is a part that acquires images and content for printing uploaded from the user terminal 200 of the image provider, and manages the uploaded information by the image DB 150.

[0127] Figure 8 It is a flowchart illustrating the user operations and processing on the user terminal when an image provider uploads images for printing to a distribution server.

[0128] exist Figure 8 In step S200, the image provider launches the second application software installed on the user terminal 200 of the image provider.

[0129] Hereinafter, the processor 210, which operates according to the second application software, causes the image provider to perform the following operations and inputs in the user terminal 200.

[0130] The image provider selects an image (for printing) from the user terminal 200 to be provided to the distribution server 100, or takes an image based on the camera 260 of the user terminal 200 (step S202). The selected image can be chosen from the image group stored in the memory 220 (camera roll) of the user terminal 200.

[0131] Next, the image provider enters the name and title of the provided image (image name) (step S204).

[0132] Next, a selection is made as to whether to provide a moving image related to the provided image (still image for printing) (step S206). If a moving image is provided ("yes"), the image provider selects the provided moving image from the camera roll, or captures a moving image based on the camera 260 of the user terminal 200 (step S208).

[0133] If no moving image is provided (in the "No" case) or the operation in step S208 ends, a selection is made as to whether to provide a text / voice-based message (step S210). If a message is provided (in the "Yes" case), the image provider selects a message associated with the image from pre-created messages or creates a new message associated with the image (step S212). In the case of a text-based message, it is possible to select from pre-created template text or edit the selected template text to create a new message. If the uploaded image is taken by an artist different from the image provider, the voice-based message is preferably a message based on the artist's voice.

[0134] If no message is provided (in the case of "No") or the operation in step S212 ends, the image provider then selects the size of the image for printing (step S214). In this example, by selecting the size of the image from... Figure 6 Choose one or more of the shown sizes (Instax film M, S, W) to select the size of the image to be printed.

[0135] Next, the processor 210 edits the image according to the size of the image selected for printing in step S216 (step S216). For example, if the size of the image corresponding to the Polaroid film M is selected, the size of the image selected or captured in step S202 is automatically edited to a size suitable for printing on the Polaroid film M (including aspect ratio). Furthermore, the image provider can use the image editing functions of the second application software to perform image cropping, color correction, grayscale correction, etc.

[0136] If the image editing is finished, the processor 210 sends (uploads) the edited image to the distribution server 100, but attaches content to the uploaded image, including the image name entered in step S204, the dynamic image selected or captured in step S208, and the message selected or created in step S212, and sends it to the distribution server 100 (step S218).

[0137] Figure 9 This is a diagram representing an example of printed images and content distributed by an image database.

[0138] exist Figure 9 In the image DB150 shown, for each printable image provided by an image provider, the system manages and identifies the image's identification information (image ID), filename, dimensions, associated content information, registration date, provider information (name, title, etc.), and name. Furthermore, the image DB150 can also manage information such as the number of copies distributed for each image and the number of times content was distributed.

[0139] Return to Figure 4 The distribution server 100 distributes the printing image to the user terminal 200 according to the distribution request (print request) of the printing image received from the user terminal 200. However, the unique ID issuing unit 123 issues unique identification information, i.e., a unique ID, for the distributed image each time the printing image is distributed to the user terminal 200.

[0140] This unique ID can be, for example, a combination of the image ID of the distributed image and the printer ID (the printer ID of the printer owned by the user at the destination of the printed image represented by the distributed image ID), a combination of the image ID of the distributed image and a sequential number (a sequential number that increments each time the printed image represented by the image ID is distributed), or a GS1 identifier (an international standard identifier defined by GS1 (General Specifications One)). Furthermore, the unique ID is not limited to the above examples; it can be any identifier that can be appropriately created to uniquely identify a Polaroid print containing the printed image.

[0141] The image generation unit 124 generates a printable image to be distributed to the user terminal 200 according to a print request received from the user terminal 200. In particular, it generates an image in which a unique ID issued by the unique ID issuing unit 123 is embedded in the printable image uploaded from the image provider's user terminal 200. When embedding the unique ID in the printable image, the image generation unit 124 performs image processing to embed the unique ID as an electronic watermark or as a one-dimensional or two-dimensional barcode (e.g., a QR code (registered trademark)) into the image.

[0142] The distribution control unit 125 determines whether to distribute the image for printing to the user terminal 200 based on information (first information) related to the distribution of the image managed by the distribution management DB160 and the print request received from the user terminal 200. If it determines that the image for printing is to be distributed, it controls the distribution of the image generated by the distribution image generation unit 124 and assigns (embeds) a unique ID.

[0143] [The roles of the distribution server and user terminal from the distribution of images for printing to the printing process]

[0144] Next, use Figures 10 to 12 The functions of the distribution server 100 and the user terminal 200 are explained up to the point that the distribution server 100 distributes the image for printing to the user terminal 200 and the distributed image is printed out by the user's printer 300.

[0145] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating an implementation of the information management method involved in this invention, showing the processing steps in the distribution server and user terminal when distributing images for printing and when distribution is not possible.

[0146] exist Figure 10 In the case of printing a desired printable image distributed by the distribution server 100 via the printer 300, the user operates the user terminal 200 through the first application software. First, the user terminal 200 selects the image selection image used in the requested printable image from the distribution server 100 (step S300).

[0147] Upon receiving a request for an image selection, the distribution server 100 sends the image selection (sample image) corresponding to a plurality of printable images managed by the image BD 150 to the user terminal 200 (step S320).

[0148] Here, the distribution server 100 extracts images in ascending order of registration date based on the registration date of the images managed by the image DB 150, and sends a sample image corresponding to the extracted image to the user terminal 200. Furthermore, when extracting a sample image to be presented to the user, the distribution server 100 obtains the printer ID of the printer 300 owned by the user requesting the sample image from the user terminal 200, or obtains it from the user management DB 140 based on the user's account, terminal ID, etc. Then, the distribution server 100 determines the type of printer 300 (the size of the instant film that can be used) based on the obtained printer ID, and uses the image DB 150 to extract the image registered corresponding to the determined size. For example, if the user's printer 300 uses small-format instant film, the image is extracted from an image registered as a small-format instant film image. This is because a printer 300 using small-format instant film cannot print an image even if it distributes a printing image corresponding to a square or wide format.

[0149] Furthermore, the distribution server 100 can limit the distribution period of the printed image (e.g., a few days from the date of image registration, one week, etc.) and extract sample images to prompt the user from the images corresponding to the limited distribution period.

[0150] If a sample image for image selection is sent from the distribution server 100, the user terminal 200 displays the sample image for image selection on the display 250 (step S302).

[0151] Figure 11 It is a diagram representing a user terminal screen that displays a sample image for image selection.

[0152] exist Figure 11 The user terminal 200 shown displays four sample images for image selection.

[0153] Furthermore, the word "Sample" is synthesized into each sample image, rendering the sample images unusable for reuse. Not limited to synthesizing text into sample images, it is preferable to apply other processing that reduces the image quality of the sample images to make them unusable for reuse.

[0154] The user selects an image for printing by operating the user terminal 200 (step S304). For example, the user can select an image for printing by clicking on a desired sample image from the sample images displayed on the screen of the user terminal, and if the desired sample image is not displayed on the screen of the user terminal, the user can switch the sample images displayed on the screen of the user terminal by swiping on the screen of the user terminal 200.

[0155] If a printable image is selected, the user terminal 200 sends a print request requesting the distribution of the printable image to the distribution server 100 (step S304). The print request preferably includes the image ID of the printable image associated with the selected sample image, the printer ID of the printer 300 owned by the user, etc. The image ID is used to identify the printable image in the distribution server 100, and the printer ID is used to identify the user requesting the print request. Alternatively, the terminal ID, account, etc., may be included in the print request along with the printer ID.

[0156] If a print request is received from user terminal 200, the processor 120 of the distribution server 100 determines whether to distribute the printable image requested for printing to the user terminal 200 (step S322).

[0157] The determination of whether to distribute the requested print image to the user terminal 200 that sent the print request is based on whether the same print image has been distributed to the same user terminal 200 in the past.

[0158] As mentioned above, Figure 4 The distribution control unit 125 of the processor 120 shown determines whether to distribute the image for printing to the user terminal 200 based on information related to the distribution of the image managed by the distribution management DB160 and the print request received from the user terminal 200.

[0159] Figure 12 This is a diagram representing an example of information (first information) related to the distribution of images managed by the distribution management DB.

[0160] Figure 12 The distribution management DB160 shown manages the distribution history of printable images by establishing an association between image ID, printer ID, terminal ID, distribution date / time, owner information, and image name, using a unique ID as the primary key whenever a printable image is distributed from the distribution server 100 to the user terminal 200.

[0161] Here, the owner information refers to the information of the owner of the instant printout that the user terminal 200 receives from the distribution server 100 and prints out through the printer 300 connected to the user terminal 200. For example, it includes one of the following: the owner's name, the first printer identification information of the first printer that printed the instant printout, and other owner information that can be identified.

[0162] The processor 120 of the distribution server 100 can receive editing information from the user terminal 200 of the owner of the Polaroid print, which is used to edit the attached information (image name, memo, etc.) of the printed image used in the Polaroid print. It can update the attached information managed by the database to the attached information edited according to the received editing information, or add editing information. For example, the image name can be set to the same image name assigned by the image provider managed by the image DB 150, but the image name managed by the distribution management DB 160 can be changed by the owner of the Polaroid print.

[0163] Furthermore, the owner of the instant print can assign a memo to the print based on images, text, voice, etc. The information in the memo can be sent from the user terminal 200 to the distribution server 100 and associated with a unique ID and managed by the database (distribution management DB160).

[0164] Furthermore, Polaroid prints can be transferred through assignments, in which case the original owner or the owner at the destination can change ownership information. Details regarding the transfer of ownership of Polaroid prints will be described later.

[0165] exist Figure 10 In step S322, the processor 120 of the distribution server 100 determines whether there is information in the first information that matches the image ID and printer ID included in the print request received from the user terminal 200 and the first information related to the distribution of images managed by the distribution management DB 160. If it is determined that there is no matching information in the first information, the distribution of the image with the received print request can be performed (distribution OK); if it is determined that there is matching information in the first information, the distribution of the image with the received print request is suppressed (distribution NG) (step S324).

[0166] If distribution is successful, the distribution server 100 (unique ID issuance unit 123) issues a unique ID (step S326). The distribution image generation unit 124 generates a printable image with the issued unique ID (in this example, an image with an embedded electronic watermark representing the unique ID), and the distribution control unit 125 distributes (sends) the generated printable image to the user terminal 200 (step S328).

[0167] Furthermore, the distribution control unit 125 updates the first information related to the distribution of images managed by the distribution management DB160 that accompany the distribution of images for printing (step S330).

[0168] On the other hand, if the distribution is determined to be NG in step S324, the distribution server 100 will distribute the content of the distribution NG to the user terminal 200.

[0169] If the user terminal 200 receives a notification of distribution NG from the distribution server 100 (step S306), it displays the content of the distribution NG on the screen of the display 250 (e.g., "Cannot print" or "Cannot be distributed because the requested image has been distributed") (step S308).

[0170] Therefore, if a print request (including the same image ID and printer ID) is made from the same user terminal 200 as a past print request, the distribution server 100 sets the print request to be NG and suppresses the distribution.

[0171] On the other hand, if the distribution is successful, the user terminal 200 sends (distributes) the printable image requested for printing from the distribution server 100, and sends the distributed printable image to the printer 300 connected to the user terminal 200 (step S310). In this case, the distributed printable image is not displayed on the display 250 of the user terminal 200. This is to avoid capturing the printable image by taking a screenshot.

[0172] If the image to be printed is sent to the printer 300 via the user terminal 200, the processor 210 of the user terminal 200, which communicates with the printer 300, determines whether the printing by the printer 300 has ended (step S312). If the printing ends normally, the image to be printed is deleted from the temporary storage in the user terminal 200 220 and / or the printer 300's memory (not shown) (step S314).

[0173] This prevents a user from obtaining (copying) multiple instant prints with the same print image.

[0174] [Audiovisual content, etc., associated with images used for printing]

[0175] <Audiovisual content, etc., based on the user terminal of the owner of the Polaroid print>

[0176] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing steps in the distribution server and user terminal when content such as audiovisual information is associated with printed images, particularly showing the case where the owner of the Polaroid print is viewing content associated with images printed on the Polaroid print. Furthermore, Figure 14 It is a diagram representing the initial screen of a user terminal when viewing audiovisual content, etc.

[0177] exist Figure 13In this process, the user launches the first application software installed on the user terminal 200 (step S400). At this time, as... Figure 14 As shown, users prefer to specify the size of the instant printout and set the application software to a mode suitable for the specified size.

[0178] exist Figure 14 The display area 201 of the screen of the user terminal 200 shown displays "width", and "width" is set as the size of the instant print. As described later, when playing content (moving image) associated with the image for printing, and with "width" set as the size of the instant print, it is possible to play a bordered moving image of a wide-format instant print through wide-format application software.

[0179] Return to Figure 13 The user uses the camera 260 of the user terminal 200 to read the information (unique ID) of the electronic watermark embedded in the instant print (step S402).

[0180] Next, the user operates the user terminal 200 to select either dynamic image mode or information browsing mode as the mode for audiovisual content.

[0181] exist Figure 14 The user terminal 200 shown displays a "Dynamic Image Mode" button 202 for selecting a dynamic image mode and an "Information Browsing Mode" button 203 for selecting an information browsing mode. The user can select either the dynamic image mode or the information browsing mode by clicking the "Dynamic Image Mode" button 202 or the "Information Browsing Mode" button 203.

[0182] exist Figure 13 If it is determined that the dynamic image mode has been selected (step S404), the user terminal 200 sends a dynamic image distribution request to the distribution server 100 (step S406). Preferably, the dynamic image distribution request includes a unique ID read in step S402 and second information (printer ID) related to the owner of the instant print.

[0183] Upon receiving the dynamic image distribution request, the distribution server 100 determines whether the user requesting the dynamic image distribution is the owner of the Polaroid print that had its electronic watermark read in step S402 (step S430).

[0184] The following is a determination of whether the user requesting the distribution of a dynamic image is the owner of the Polaroid print. Distribution server 100 uses the unique ID included in the dynamic image distribution request, and retrieves the image from distribution management DB160 (reference) using that unique ID as the primary key. Figure 12The system reads the necessary information (in this example, the printer ID) from the image distribution-related information managed by the system. Then, if the read printer ID matches the printer ID included in the live image distribution request, it determines that the user requesting the live image distribution is the owner of the Polaroid print.

[0185] If it is determined that the user requesting the dynamic image distribution is the owner of the Polaroid print (in the case of "yes"), then the distribution server 100 will distribute (send) the dynamic image associated with the image printed on the Polaroid print to the user terminal 200. That is, the distribution server 100 obtains the image ID managed by the distribution management DB160 based on the unique ID included in the dynamic image distribution request, and uses this image ID as the key to retrieve the image ID from the image DB150 (see reference). Figure 9 The distribution server 100 identifies animated images from the information in the managed content and distributes the identified animated images. Alternatively, if no animated image is found in the content searched by image ID, the distribution server 100 preferably sends the content for which no animated image is distributed to the user terminal 200.

[0186] If the user terminal 200 receives a dynamic image from the distribution server 100, the dynamic image is played and displayed on the display 250, and in the case of a dynamic image with voice, voice is output from the speaker of the user terminal 200 (step S408).

[0187] Next, the user terminal 200 determines whether the playback of the moving image has ended (step S410). If the playback of the moving image has ended, the screen of the user terminal 200 returns to normal. Figure 14 The image shown.

[0188] If, in step S404, it is determined that the dynamic image mode is not selected, or if it is determined that the dynamic image playback has ended, the user terminal 200 then determines whether the information browsing mode has been selected (step S412). The determination of whether the information browsing mode has been selected can be based on whether a click has been made. Figure 14 The "Information Browsing Mode" button 203 on the screen of the user terminal 200 shown is used for this purpose.

[0189] If it is determined in step S412 that the information browsing mode has been selected ("yes"), then the user terminal 200 sends a browsing information distribution request to the distribution server 100 (step S414). The browsing information distribution request preferably includes a unique ID and printer ID, similar to the dynamic image distribution request.

[0190] Upon receiving a request to distribute browsing information, the distribution server 100 determines whether the user requesting the distribution of browsing information is the owner of the Polaroid print that had its electronic watermark read in step S402 (step S432). This determination can be performed in the same way as the determination in step S430.

[0191] If the user requesting the distribution of browsing information is determined to be the owner of the Polaroid print (in the case of "yes"), then the distribution server 100 will distribute (send) the browsing information associated with the image printed on the Polaroid print to the user terminal 200. That is, the distribution server 100 obtains the image ID managed by the distribution management DB160 based on the unique ID included in the browsing information distribution request, and uses the image ID as the key to determine the voice / text message and browsing information such as owner information, image name, and memo managed by the distribution management DB160 from the information of the content managed by the image DB150, and distributes the determined browsing information.

[0192] If browsing information is distributed from the distribution server 100, the user terminal 200 plays the browsing information and displays it on the display 250, and if the browsing information includes voice messages, the voice messages are output from the speaker of the user terminal 200 (step S416).

[0193] Next, the user terminal 200 determines whether the playback of the browsing information has ended (step S418). If the browsing playback has ended, the screen of the user terminal 200 returns to [the previous screen]. Figure 14 The image shown.

[0194] Then, if the user terminal 200 accepts a user operation to end the audiovisual experience such as viewing dynamic images and browsing information, the process ends (step S420).

[0195] Figure 15 It is a diagram representing the user terminal screen when viewing audiovisual content, etc. Figure 15 (A) is the screen where the moving image mode is selected and the moving image is played. Figure 15 (B) is the screen that selects the information browsing mode and displays various information other than dynamic images.

[0196] Figure 15 The user terminal 200-1 shown is the terminal of the owner of the Polaroid print. Therefore, as described above, if the moving image mode is selected and the electronic watermark information is read from the Polaroid print, a moving image associated with the image printed on the Polaroid print is distributed from the distribution server 100, and the moving image can be played. Figure 15 (A)).

[0197] Furthermore, if the user terminal 200-1 selects the information browsing mode and reads the electronic watermark information from the instant print, then the distribution server 100 distributes browsing information associated with the image printed on the instant print, and can play the browsing information ( Figure 15 (B)

[0198] Additionally, it is displayed Figure 15 The browsing information on the screen of the user terminal 200-1 shown in (B) includes the printer ID (serial number) of the printer owned by the owner of the instant print, the name of the owner of the instant print, the image name of the image printed on the instant print, and a text-based message ("Thank you"), etc.

[0199] Even if multiple instant prints exist containing the same image ID, each print has a unique, intrinsically unique ID embedded as an electronic watermark, ensuring that no two prints are exactly alike and that only one print in the world exists. Furthermore, by using the electronic watermark information embedded in the print, information about the print's owner and related content can be accessed, thereby increasing the print's value.

[0200] <Audiovisual content, etc., from non-owner user terminals based on Polaroid prints>

[0201] Figure 16 It means from Figure 13 The flowchart shown is a branch of the flowchart, especially illustrating the case where someone other than the owner of the Polaroid print (non-owner) is viewing or listening to the content.

[0202] exist Figure 13 In step S430, if the distribution server 100 determines that the user requesting the distribution of the moving image is not the owner of the Polaroid print (in the case of "No"), the process proceeds to... Figure 16 Step S510 is shown.

[0203] In step S510, the distribution server 100 distributes information for non-owners of the Polaroid print to the non-owner user terminal 200 instead of distributing the dynamic image. Here, the information for non-owners does not include the dynamic image or a message, such as reasons for not distributing the dynamic image or information for enabling viewing or listening to the dynamic image.

[0204] If a non-owner user terminal 200 receives non-owner information from the distribution server 100, it displays the non-owner information on the display 250 (step S500).

[0205] Figure 17It is a diagram representing the screen of a user terminal in dynamic image mode. Figure 17 (A) represents the screen of user terminal 200-1, which represents the owner of the Polaroid print. Figure 17 (B) indicates the screen of the non-owner user terminal 200-3 of the Polaroid print. Additionally, Figure 17 The screen of the user terminal 200-1 of the owner of the Polaroid print shown in (A) is... Figure 15 (A) is the same.

[0206] exist Figure 16 In step S500, Figure 17 In the screen of the non-owner user terminal 200-3 shown in (B), as non-owner information, the message "Not your Polaroid print" and "Click here for purchase link ↓" and the URL of the link destination are displayed.

[0207] Non-owners of instant prints can purchase the right to receive the distribution of the printed image on the instant print by accessing the destination URL via user terminal 200-3, and obtain the instant print by printing the printed image distributed from the distribution server 100 using their own printer.

[0208] Furthermore, in Figure 13 In step S432 shown, if the distribution server 100 determines that the user requesting the browsing information distribution is not the owner of the Polaroid print (in the case of "No"), the process is transferred to... Figure 16 The step S512 shown.

[0209] In step S512, the distribution server 100 creates browsing information for non-owners and distributes the created browsing information to non-owner user terminals 200. Here, the browsing information for non-owners is a portion of the browsing information for owners, but contains less information than the browsing information for owners.

[0210] If a non-owner user terminal 200 receives non-owner browsing information from the distribution server 100, it displays the non-owner browsing information on the display 250 (step S504).

[0211] Figure 18 It is a diagram representing the screen of a user terminal in information browsing mode. Figure 18 (A) represents the screen of user terminal 200-1, which represents the owner of the Polaroid print. Figure 18 (B) indicates the screen of the non-owner user terminal 200-3 of the Polaroid print. Additionally, Figure 18The screen of the user terminal 200-1 of the owner of the Polaroid print shown in (A) is... Figure 15 (B) is the same.

[0212] Showing Figure 18 The browsing information on the screen of the non-owner user terminal 200-3 shown in (B) of the instant print is compared to that displayed on the screen. Figure 18 The user terminal 200-1 of the owner of the Polaroid print shown in (A) has little browsing information on the screen. Figure 8 The example shown does not include text-based messages, but includes purchase links.

[0213] In addition, the browsing information displayed on the screen of the non-owner user terminal 200-3 of the instant print can be preset by the owner of the instant print.

[0214] Figure 19 It is a chart that shows the audiovisual content and other information that can be viewed using the electronic watermark embedded in the Polaroid print.

[0215] like Figure 19 As shown, the owner of the Polaroid print and someone other than the owner of the Polaroid print (non-owner) are... Figure 19 The information shown contains different visual and auditory elements. Additionally, in... Figure 19 In this context, "OK" indicates information that can be viewed or heard, "NG" indicates information that cannot be viewed or heard, and "OK / NG" means that the owner of the Polaroid print can arbitrarily set the information to "OK" or "NG".

[0216] exist Figure 19 In the process, the owner of the Polaroid print can see and hear it. Figure 19 All the information shown, on the other hand, non-owners of the Polaroid prints cannot view or listen to messages and moving images from the image provider. Regarding other information, they can only view or listen to information that the owner of the Polaroid prints has allowed (information that is set to OK).

[0217] exist Figure 16 In the process, on the user terminal 200 of the non-owner of the instant print, the display of non-owner information in step S500 ends (step S502), and the display of non-owner browsing information in step S504 ends (step S506). Then, if the user terminal 200 accepts the user operation to end the viewing of this information, the process ends (step S508).

[0218] <Transfer of Ownership of Polaroid Prints>

[0219] Ownership of instant prints can be transferred between users through assignment or other means. The user who is the source of ownership of the instant print or the user who is the destination of ownership can use the user terminal 200 to register the transfer of ownership of the instant print with the distribution server 100.

[0220] Figure 20 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing steps in the distribution server and user terminal during the transfer of registered Polaroid prints. Figure 21 This is an image showing the user terminal screen during the registration of ownership transfer for Polaroid prints.

[0221] The following uses Figure 20 and Figure 21 This section explains the process of registering the transfer of ownership of Polaroid prints to the original user.

[0222] exist Figure 20 In this process, the user who is the source of ownership transfer of the Polaroid print uses the camera 260 of the user terminal 200 to read the information (unique ID) of the electronic watermark embedded in the Polaroid print whose ownership has been transferred (step S600). Additionally, the user opens the first application software installed on the user terminal 200 and executes the function that supports the transfer of ownership of the Polaroid print.

[0223] Next, the user enters the printer ID of the printer owned by the user at the destination of the transfer (step S602).

[0224] For example, if user terminal 200 reads the electronic watermark embedded in the instant print and obtains the electronic watermark information (unique ID), then... Figure 20 As shown, the first application software displays a screen for users to enter the printer ID (new serial number) of the user transferring the destination.

[0225] Users Figure 20 In dialog box 204 on the user terminal 200 screen shown, the serial number of the printer of the user at the transfer destination is entered. Additionally, the user of the source of ownership needs to obtain the serial number of the printer of the user at the transfer destination beforehand.

[0226] Furthermore, since the user terminal 200 obtains a unique ID from the Polaroid printout, it can retrieve a sample image of the printed image on the Polaroid printout and the print ID (original serial number) of the user who transferred the image from the distribution server 100 based on this unique ID, and display it on the screen of the user terminal 200. Thus, the user of the original owner can confirm the image and original serial number used for the transfer procedure.

[0227] If the serial number of the printer of the user at the destination is entered, the user terminal 200 sends a transfer request to the distribution server 100 requesting the transfer of ownership of the instant print (step S604). Preferably, the transfer request includes a unique ID read in step S600 and the serial number (printer ID) of the printer of the user at the destination. The unique ID can identify the instant film to which ownership is being transferred (information managed by the distribution management DB160 with the unique ID as the primary key), and the serial number (printer ID) of the printer of the user at the destination can be used as information to identify the user at the destination.

[0228] In addition, the destination of instant prints can only be the user managed by the DB140 (…). Figure 7 Users managed by the company who have not registered themselves must register before the transfer of ownership.

[0229] If the distribution server 100 receives a transfer request from the user terminal 200, it updates the information managed by the distribution management DB 160 according to the transfer request (step S610).

[0230] That is, the distribution server 100 updates the owner information, printer ID, and terminal ID in the information managed by the distribution management DB160 and associated with a unique ID. The distribution server 100 retrieves the printer ID (second printer ID) of the user-managed DB140 based on the user's printer ID at the destination (the second printer ID). Figure 7 The system manages user information (username, terminal ID, etc.) and updates the owner information managed by the distribution management DB160 based on the obtained username. Furthermore, it appends the second printer ID and terminal ID of the user at the destination to the printer ID (first printer ID) and terminal ID of the user at the source, which are managed by the distribution management DB160 and associated with a unique ID.

[0231] exist Figure 12 In the distribution management DB160 shown, the printer ID and terminal ID in the information managed by the second unique ID (010……75) include two printer IDs and two terminal IDs respectively. The printer ID and terminal ID in the upper segment are the first printer ID and terminal ID of the user of the transfer source, and the printer ID and terminal ID in the lower segment are the second printer ID and terminal ID of the user of the added transfer destination.

[0232] Therefore, the reason for not changing the first printer ID, etc., of the user at the source of the transfer to the second printer ID, etc., of the user at the destination of the transfer (the reason for retaining the first printer ID, etc., of the user at the source of the transfer) is that, if the distribution server 100 receives a print request from the user terminal of the user at the source of the transfer request for an image identical to the image printed on a Polaroid printout whose ownership has been transferred, the distribution of that printable image is restricted. Furthermore, determining whether a user has previously distributed the same printable image can be done by comparing the printer ID included in the print request with the history of printer IDs managed by the distribution management DB160.

[0233] The distribution server 100 updates the distribution management DB 160 according to the transfer request from the user terminal 200 of the user from the transfer source. If the ownership transfer process is completed, the user terminal is notified of the transfer completion (step S612).

[0234] If the user terminal 200 receives a notification that the transfer is complete, it displays that the transfer of ownership is complete and ends the transfer of ownership of the Polaroid print (step S606).

[0235] exist Figure 20 and Figure 21 The document explains the situation where the user who is the source of ownership of the instant print registers the transfer of ownership of the instant print. However, similarly, the user who is the destination of ownership of the instant print can also register the transfer of ownership of the instant print using the user terminal of the user at the destination.

[0236] In this case, it is preferable to request the printer ID, etc., of the user at the destination user's terminal. In the case of an improperly obtained Polaroid print, ownership cannot be transferred.

[0237] Based on the aforementioned ownership transfer mechanism for Polaroid prints, even if ownership of a Polaroid print is transferred, the same Polaroid print will not be printed from the original user's printer, thus preventing the print from being copied multiple times and resold. Furthermore, by having a mechanism for transferring ownership of Polaroid prints, the value of the prints can be increased.

[0238] Furthermore, by having multiple users each use their own printers, multiple instant prints can exist that print the same image. However, since each instant print contains an inherent electronic watermark, they are not completely identical, and the information from the electronic watermark can be used to display information about the owner of the instant print.

[0239] Furthermore, when carrying the same Polaroid prints at offline gatherings, there is no need to write the name on the print itself. By using the information from the electronic watermark, it is possible to know whose Polaroid print it is, thus protecting personal information.

[0240] [other]

[0241] In this embodiment, the case where an instant printer using instant film is used as the printer for printing the output printout is described. However, the printer is not limited to an instant printer, and may also be a printer using other printing methods such as an inkjet printer or a thermal printer. The photo printout is also not limited to an instant printout.

[0242] Furthermore, the unique ID assigned to the film (Instax film) is not limited to being assigned as an electronic watermark; it can also be assigned as code data (two-dimensional or one-dimensional code represented by a QR code (registered trademark)).

[0243] Furthermore, in this embodiment, for example, the hardware structure of the processing unit that performs various processes, such as the processor of an information management device (distribution server), is as follows: various processors. These processors include general-purpose processors that execute software (programs) to perform the functions of various processing units, such as CPUs (Central Processing Units); processors such as FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Arrays) whose circuit structure can be changed after manufacturing, i.e., programmable logic devices (PLDs); and processors such as ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits) whose circuit structures are specifically designed to perform specific processes, i.e., dedicated circuits.

[0244] A processing unit can be composed of one of these various processors, or it can be composed of two or more processors of the same or different types (e.g., multiple FPGAs or a combination of CPU and FPGA). Furthermore, a single processor can also constitute multiple processing units. As examples of a single processor constituting multiple processing units, the first approach is to use a combination of one or more CPUs and software, such as in a client or server computer, to form a single processor that functions as multiple processing units. The second approach is to use a processor, such as in a System-on-Chip (SoC), that implements the overall system functionality including multiple processing units using a single IC (Integrated Circuit) chip. Thus, as a hardware structure, various processing units are constructed using one or more of the aforementioned processors.

[0245] Furthermore, more specifically, the hardware structure of these various processors is a circuit composed of circuit elements such as semiconductor components.

[0246] Furthermore, the present invention includes an information management program installed on a computer to enable the computer to function as an information management device or to execute the information management method involved in the present invention, and a non-volatile storage medium recording the information management program.

[0247] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and it goes without saying that various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0248] Symbol Explanation

[0249] 10-Information Management System, 100-Publishing Server, 110-Communications Department, 120-Processor, 121-User Registration Department, 122-Image Registration Department, 123-Unique ID Issuance Department, 124-Distribution Image Generation Department, 125-Distribution Control Department, 130-Memory, 140-User Management Database, 150-Image BD, 160-Distribution Management BD, 200, 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4-User Terminal, 201-Display Area, 202-“Dynamic Image Mode” Button, 203-“ "Information Browsing Mode" button, 204 - Dialog box, 210 - Processor, 220 - Memory, 230 - Operation unit, 240 - Wireless communication unit, 250 - Display, 260 - Camera, 270 - Short-range wireless communication unit, 300, 300-1, 300-2 - Printer, 302 - Instant print, M, S, W - Instant film, NW - Network, S100~S108, S200~S218, S300~S330, S400~S432, S500~S512, S600~S612 - Steps.

Claims

1. An information management device, comprising: A processor; and a memory storing a plurality of images for printing and first information relating to the distribution of said images. The processor performs the following processing: The first user receives a print request for the image selected from the plurality of images from the first user's first user terminal; Based on the first information and the print request, determine whether to distribute the selected image to the first user terminal; If it is determined that the selected image should be distributed, the unique identification information used to determine the selected image is assigned to the selected image and distributed to the first user terminal; and Upon distributing the image, the first information stored in the memory is updated.

2. The information management device according to claim 1, wherein, The processor embeds the unique identification information into the image as an electronic watermark or code data.

3. The information management device according to claim 1, wherein, The processor performs the following processing: if it is determined that printing has already been performed, it suppresses the distribution of the image that received the printing request to the first user terminal.

4. The information management device according to claim 1, wherein, The processor performs the following processing: determining, based on the first information stored in the memory, whether an image identical to the image for which the print request was made has been printed in the past by the same printer of the same first user.

5. The information management device according to claim 1, wherein, The first information includes: image recognition information of the distributed image; and printer identification information of the first printer, which is connected to the first user terminal and prints the distributed image via the first user terminal.

6. The information management device according to claim 1, wherein, In the memory, associated with the unique identification information, is stored owner information indicating the owner of the printed output of the image for which the print request was made, i.e., the photograph print. The first user terminal reads the unique identification information from the photo print, and the processor receives the read unique identification information and second information related to the owner of the photo print from the first user terminal. The processor reads the owner information from the memory based on the unique identification information and the second information. The processor sends the owner information to the first user terminal and causes the display of the first user terminal to show the owner information.

7. The information management device according to claim 6, wherein, The owner information includes at least one of the following: the owner's name of the photo printout and the first printer identification information of the first printer that printed the photo printout.

8. The information management device according to claim 1, wherein, The memory stores content corresponding to each of the plurality of images. The first user terminal reads the unique identification information from the printed output of the image for which the print request was made, i.e., the photo print, and the processor receives the read unique identification information from the first user terminal. The processor reads from the memory the content corresponding to the image identified based on the unique identification information. The processor distributes the content to the first user terminal and causes the first user terminal to output the content.

9. The information management device according to claim 1, wherein, The memory stores, in association with the unique identification information, owner information indicating the owner of the printed output (i.e., the photo print) of the image for which the print request was made, and content corresponding to each of the plurality of images. The first user terminal reads the unique identification information from the photo printout, and the processor receives the read unique identification information and related information about the owner from the first user terminal. The processor determines whether it is the owner of the photo print based on the received information related to the owner information and the owner information stored in the memory. If the processor determines that the person is the owner of the printed photo, it reads from the memory the content corresponding to the image identified based on the unique identification information, or supplementary information including the content and the owner information. The processor distributes the read supplementary information to the first user terminal, and causes the first user terminal to output the supplementary information.

10. The information management device according to claim 1, wherein, The memory stores, in association with the unique identification information, owner information indicating the owner of the printed output (i.e., the photo print) of the image for which the print request was made, and content corresponding to each of the plurality of images. The third user terminal reads the unique identification information from the photo printout, and the processor receives the read unique identification information and related information about the owner from the third user terminal. The processor determines whether it is the owner of the photo print based on the received information related to the owner information and the owner information stored in the memory. If the processor determines that the user is not the owner of the printed photo, it reads from the memory the content corresponding to the image identified based on the unique identification information, or the pre-authorized ancillary information in the ancillary information including the content and the owner information. and The processor distributes the read supplementary information to the third user terminal, and causes the third user terminal to output the supplementary information.

11. The information management device according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein, The content includes at least one of a moving image provided by the provider of the image for printing in association with the image and a voice- or text-based message.

12. The information management device according to claim 9, wherein, The processor performs the following processing: Receives additional information about the image used in the photo print from the first user terminal; and The received ancillary information is stored in the memory in association with the image.

13. The information management device according to claim 9, wherein, The processor performs the following processing: The first user terminal receives editing information for editing ancillary information of the image used in the photo print; and The associated information stored in the memory in connection with the image is updated to the associated information after being edited by the editing information.

14. The information management device according to claim 6, wherein, The first information includes: image recognition information of the distributed image; and first printer identification information of the first printer, which is connected to the first user terminal and prints the distributed image via the first user terminal. The processor performs the following processing: Receive information from the first user terminal or the second user terminal of the second user indicating that ownership of the photo print has been transferred from the first user to the second user, and second printer identification information of the second printer owned by the second user; and The owner information stored in the memory is changed to the owner information of the second user, and in addition to the first printer identification information included in the first information, the second printer identification information is added.

15. The information management device according to claim 14, wherein, The processor performs the following processing: If a print request for an image corresponding to the photo print is received by the first user terminal of the first user who was previously the owner of the photo print or the second user terminal of the second user who has become the current owner of the photo print through the transfer of ownership, the distribution of the image receiving the print request to the first user terminal or the second user terminal is suppressed according to the first information stored in the memory.

16. An information management system comprising an information management device according to any one of claims 1 to 10 and 12 to 15 and the first user terminal communicating with the information management device. The first application software is installed in the first user terminal. The first user terminal performs the following processing through the functions of the first application software: Upon receiving a printable image from the information management device, the image is output to a first printer connected to the first user terminal, and the image is printed by the first printer; and Suppress the saving of the image used for the printed output within the first user terminal or the first printer.

17. The information management system according to claim 16, wherein, The first user terminal performs the following processing: Receive the image used in the image selection for printing from the information management device; The received image is displayed on the monitor; When a user operation based on an image displayed on the display screen is accepted to select an image corresponding to the image to be printed, a print request including the identification information of the received image and the printer identification information of the first printer is sent to the information management device. and Add text to the image displayed on the monitor or perform processing that degrades the image quality.

18. The information management system according to claim 16, further comprising: The fourth user terminal, which is the fourth user terminal of the image provider, has the second application software installed. The fourth user terminal performs the following processing through the functions of the second application software: Send the image to be printed and the content related to the image to the information management device; and The information management device adds image recognition information to the image for printing provided by the image provider, and records the image for printing in association with the content in the memory.

19. The information management system according to claim 18, wherein, The fourth user terminal performs the following processing: The image name for the image to be printed is accepted through the operation of the image provider; and The image name is attached to the image as supplementary information for the image to be printed.

20. The information management system according to claim 19, wherein, The first user terminal, through the operation of the first user, accepts the change of the image name attached to the image for printing by the image provider, and sends the changed image name to the information management device. The information management device updates the image name attached to the image for printing recorded in the memory to the changed image name received from the first user terminal.

21. The information management system according to claim 18, wherein, The fourth user terminal performs the following processing: The image provider's operation accepts the size specification of one or more sizes of the image for printing; and An image corresponding to one or more dimensions obtained by specifying the dimensions is generated as the image for printing.

22. An information management method, wherein a processor of an information management device performs the following steps, the information management device comprising: The processor; and a memory that stores multiple images for printing and first information related to the distribution of said images. The information management method includes: The first user receives a print request for the image selected from the plurality of images from the first user's first user terminal; Based on the first information stored in the memory, it is determined whether the same image as the image for which the print request was made was previously printed by the same first printer of the same first user; If it is determined that the image receiving the print request has already been printed, the distribution of the image to the first user terminal is suppressed. If it is determined that no printing has been performed, the image is assigned unique identification information that distinguishes it from the image receiving the printing request, and this information is distributed to the first user terminal; and Upon distributing the image, the first information stored in the memory is updated.

23. An information management program that performs the following functions via a computer: The first user's first user terminal receives a print request for an image selected from multiple images stored in memory for printing; Based on the first information stored in the memory and related to the distribution of the image for printing, it is determined whether the same image as the image for which the printing request was made has been printed in the past by the same first user's first printer; If it is determined that the image receiving the print request has already been printed, the distribution of the image to the first user terminal is suppressed. If it is determined that no printing output has been performed, the image is assigned unique identification information to determine that the image has received the printing request, and then distributed to the first user terminal; and Upon distributing the image, the first information stored in the memory is updated.

24. A recording medium, which is non-transitory and computer-readable, recording the program of claim 23.

Images