Shape management system, shape management server, and shape management method

Abstract

To provide a shape management system, a shape management server, and a shape management method for properly managing shape data on a site of a subject's body.SOLUTION: A shape management system comprises: a shape management server 1 for managing shape data that indicates a shape of a site of a subject's body; and a user terminal 2 provided on a subject side. The user terminal 2 transmits a picked-up image obtained by photographing the site together with a calibrating plate 3 and identification information of the calibrating plate 3, to the shape management server 1. The shape management server 1 acquires calibrating-member information related to the distributed calibrating plate 3, and determines whether the calibrating plate 3 included in the picked-up image received from the user terminal 2 has been distributed or not, on the basis of the acquired calibrating-member information and the identification information received from the user terminal 2, and then, generates shape data on the site by applying measurement processing to the picked-up image, when the calibrating plate is determined to have been distributed, and manages the generated shape data.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a shape management system, a shape management server, and a shape management method for managing shape data of body parts of a subject. [Background technology]

[0002] Techniques for generating shape data of a part of the human body, such as a foot, based on an image of the part have been proposed. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a mold formation system that includes an imaging unit that simultaneously images the subject's foot and a reference object whose actual size is known, a calibration processing unit that calibrates the size of the 3D shape data obtained by imaging based on the reference object, and a mold formation unit that forms a 3D foot shape using the calibrated 3D shape data. This mold formation system allows for easy and highly accurate acquisition of 3D shape data of the foot without the need for special measuring tools. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-29470 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In recent years, there has been a growing demand for the use of PHRs (Personal Health Records), and there is a demand for services that accurately measure the shape of a person's body parts and then record and manage the results. To make such services sustainable, a framework that can appropriately manage shape measurements and their results is required.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and its main object is to provide a shape management system, a shape management server, and a shape management method that contribute to the appropriate management of shape data of a person to be measured. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, one aspect of the shape management system of the present invention comprises: an imaging device that is provided on the side of the person being measured and generates an image of a part of the person's body; and a shape management server that is communicatively connected to the imaging device and manages shape data indicating the shape of the part obtained based on the image; a calibration member that is photographed together with the part is distributed to the person being measured, and the calibration member is assigned identification information for identifying the calibration member; the imaging device comprises an imaging unit that photographs the part together with the calibration member to obtain an image; an acquisition unit that acquires the identification information of the calibration member; and a transmission unit that transmits the image and the identification information to the shape management server; and the shape management server comprises a generation unit that generates shape data indicating the shape of the part by performing a measurement process on the image received from the imaging device, and a management unit that manages the generated shape data in association with the calibration member identified by the identification information received from the imaging device.

[0007] Another aspect of the shape management system of the present invention comprises: an imaging device that is provided on the side of a person to be measured and generates an image of a body part of the person to be measured; and a shape management server that is communicatively connected to the imaging device and manages shape data indicating the shape of the body part obtained based on the imaged image; a calibration member that is to be photographed together with the body part is distributed to the person to be measured, and the calibration member is assigned identification information for identifying the calibration member; the imaging device comprises an imaging unit that photographs the body part together with the calibration member to obtain an imaged image; an acquisition unit that acquires the identification information of the calibration member; and a transmission unit that transmits the imaged image and the identification information to the shape management server; and the shape management server comprises: a calibration member information acquisition unit that acquires calibration member information regarding distributed calibration members; a determination unit that determines whether a calibration member included in the imaged image received from the imaging device has been distributed based on the acquired calibration member information and the identification information received from the imaging device; a generation unit that, if it is determined that a calibration member has been distributed, generates shape data indicating the shape of the body part by performing a measurement process on the imaged image; and a management unit that manages the generated shape data.

[0008] A shape management server according to one aspect of the present invention is provided on the side of a person being measured, is communicatively connected to an imaging device that generates an image of a part of the person's body, and manages shape data indicating the shape of the part obtained based on the image, wherein a calibration member used to photograph the part is distributed to the person being measured, and identification information for identifying the calibration member is attached to the calibration member, and the imaging device comprises an imaging unit that photographs the part together with the calibration member to obtain an image, an acquisition unit that acquires the identification information of the calibration member, and a transmission unit that transmits the image and the identification information to the shape management server, and comprises a generation unit that generates shape data indicating the shape of the part by performing a measurement process on the image received from the imaging device, and a management unit that manages the generated shape data in association with the calibration member identified by the identification information received from the imaging device.

[0009] In addition, another aspect of the shape management server of the present invention is provided on the side of a person being measured, is communicatively connected to an imaging device that generates an image of a part of the person's body, and manages shape data indicating the shape of the part obtained based on the image, wherein a calibration member used to photograph the part is distributed to the person being measured, and identification information for identifying the calibration member is attached to the calibration member, and the imaging device comprises an imaging unit that photographs the part together with the calibration member to obtain an image, an acquisition unit that acquires the identification information of the calibration member, and a transmission unit that transmits the image and the identification information to the shape management server, and the shape management server comprises a calibration member information acquisition unit that acquires calibration member information regarding the distributed calibration member, a determination unit that determines whether the calibration member included in the image received from the imaging device has been distributed based on the acquired calibration member information and the identification information received from the imaging device, and a generation unit that, if it is determined that the calibration member has been distributed, generates shape data indicating the shape of the part by performing a measurement process on the image, and a management unit that manages the generated shape data.

[0010] In the above aspect, a usable period is set for the calibration member, and the determination unit further determines whether the calibration member included in the captured image is usable, and the generation unit may generate the shape data when it is determined that the calibration member has been distributed and is usable.

[0011] In addition, in the above aspect, the calibration material information acquisition unit may acquire calibration material information including a distribution destination of the calibration material, and the management unit may manage the shape data in association with the acquired distribution destination.

[0012] In addition, the above aspect may further comprise a billing unit that generates billing information for billing each of the acquired distribution destinations.

[0013] In addition, in the above aspect, multiple measurement processes are prepared depending on the type of the calibration member, and the device further includes a process identification unit that identifies the measurement process to be applied from the multiple measurement processes based on the calibration member identified by the identification information, and the generation unit may generate the shape data by applying the identified measurement process to the captured image.

[0014] One aspect of the shape management method of the present invention is a shape management method that uses a computer communicably connected to an imaging device that is provided on the side of the person being measured and generates an image of a body part of the person being measured, to manage shape data indicating the shape of the part obtained based on the image, wherein a calibration member used to photograph the part is distributed to the person being measured, and identification information for identifying the calibration member is attached to the calibration member, and the imaging device is equipped with an imaging unit that photographs the part together with the calibration member to obtain an image, an acquisition unit that acquires the identification information of the calibration member, and a transmission unit that transmits the image and the identification information to the shape management server, and the computer generates shape data indicating the shape of the part by performing a measurement process on the image received from the imaging device, and manages the generated shape data in association with the calibration member identified by the identification information received from the imaging device.

[0015] Another aspect of the shape management method of the present invention is a shape management method that uses a computer communicably connected to an imaging device that is provided on the side of the person being measured and generates an image of a part of the person's body, and manages shape data indicating the shape of the part obtained based on the image. The person being measured is provided with a calibration member to be used in photographing the part, and identification information for identifying the calibration member is attached to the calibration member. The imaging device is equipped with an imaging unit that photographs the part together with the calibration member to obtain an image, an acquisition unit that acquires the identification information of the calibration member, and a transmission unit that transmits the image and the identification information to the shape management server. The computer acquires calibration member information regarding the distributed calibration member, and determines whether the calibration member included in the image received from the imaging device has been distributed based on the acquired calibration member information and the identification information received from the imaging device. If it is determined that the calibration member has been distributed, the computer performs a measurement process on the image to generate shape data indicating the shape of the part, and manages the generated shape data. [Effects of the Invention]

[0016] According to the present invention, it is possible to appropriately manage shape data of body parts of a subject. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0017] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a shape management system. [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a calibration plate for foot measurement. [Figure 3A] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing the configuration of a calibration plate for foot measurement. [Figure 3B] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing the configuration of the calibration plate, indicating the placement positions of the feet. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the layout of a plate database. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the layout of a distribution destination database. [Figure 6]FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the layout of a distribution status database. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the layout of a user database. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the layout of a measurement result database. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for a measurement and recording process. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for a billing process. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a calibration plate for manual measurement. [Figure 12A] FIG. 10 is a front view showing the configuration of a calibration plate for manual measurement. [Figure 12B] FIG. 10 is a front view showing the configuration of a calibration plate showing hand placement positions. [Figure 13A] FIG. 10 is a front view showing the configuration of a calibration plate for whole-body measurement. [Figure 13B] FIG. 10 is a front view showing the configuration of a calibration plate showing the placement position of the whole body. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a calibration plate for measuring the sole of the foot. [Figure 15A] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing the configuration of a calibration plate for measuring the sole of the foot. [Figure 15B] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing the configuration of the calibration plate, indicating the placement positions of the feet. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the following embodiments are merely examples of methods and devices for embodying the technical concept of the present invention, and the technical concept of the present invention is not limited to the following. Various modifications can be made to the technical concept of the present invention within the technical scope described in the claims.

[0019] (System configuration) 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a shape management system according to this embodiment. The shape management system according to this embodiment includes a shape management server 1 that manages shape data indicating the shapes of body parts of subjects, and a user terminal 2 provided on the side of each subject. The shape management server 1 and user terminal 2 are connected to each other via the Internet 101 so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0020] In this embodiment, the shape management server 1 manages shape data indicating the shape of the instep of the foot (below the ankle) of the subject. However, the shape management server 1 may also manage shape data of parts other than the instep of the foot. This point will be described in detail later.

[0021] The user terminal 2 is an information terminal used by the subject and is an example of an imaging device. Specifically, a personal computer, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or the like is used as the user terminal 2. The user terminal 2 transmits and receives various data to and from the shape management server 1 using an internet browser or a dedicated application, or the like.

[0022] 1, the user terminal 2 includes an input unit 21, a display unit 22, and a camera 23. The input unit 21 is configured with a touch panel or the like, and the display unit 22 is configured with a liquid crystal display or the like. The camera 23 is an imaging unit configured with an imaging element such as a CCD.

[0023] A calibration plate 3 is provided on the subject's side, and is photographed together with the subject's body parts. This calibration plate 3 is used for calibration when measuring the shape of the instep of the foot through image processing, and is an example of a calibration member. The calibration plate 3 is photographed by the camera 23 of the user terminal 2 together with the instep of the foot, which is the part to be photographed.

[0024] The calibration member is of an appropriate size and shape depending on the part of the body to be imaged. In this embodiment, the part to be imaged is the instep of the subject's foot. Therefore, the calibration plate 3 of this embodiment is a calibration member for foot measurement that has a configuration suitable for imaging the instep of the foot.

[0025] Each calibration plate 3 is distributed to the person being measured in advance. For example, a calibration plate 3 is distributed to a store that sells shoes and is used to measure the shape of the instep of the foot of the store's customers (persons being measured). Alternatively, a calibration plate 3 may be distributed to a business establishment that has many employees who wear safety shoes and is used to measure the shape of the instep of the foot of those employees (persons being measured). Note that multiple calibration plates 3 may be distributed to one recipient. A calibration plate 3 may also be distributed to each individual person being measured.

[0026] Fig. 2 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a calibration plate 3 for measuring feet. Figs. 3A and 3B are plan views showing the configuration of the calibration plate 3, with Fig. 3B showing the position of the subject's feet. As shown in Fig. 2, the calibration plate 3 comprises a rectangular mounting plate 31 on which the subject's feet are placed, and a rectangular standing plate 32 standing upward from the rear edge of the mounting plate 31. A boundary line 33 and a two-dimensional code 34 are marked on the upper surface (front surface) of the mounting plate 31.

[0027] The boundary line 33 is a line extending forward from the center of the rear edge of the mounting plate 31, and serves as a mark dividing the areas where the subject places their right and left feet. In FIG. 3B, an example of the placement positions of the subject's right and left feet is shown by dashed lines. As shown in FIG. 3B, the subject places both their right and left feet on the mounting plate 31, straddling the boundary line 33. At this time, the subject places the heels of both feet in contact with the surface of the standing plate 32. This allows the placement positions of the heels relative to the mounting plate 31 to be consistent, enabling highly accurate measurements.

[0028] The boundary line 33 is marked on the mounting plate 31 by being printed on the upper surface of the mounting plate 31. However, the boundary line 33 may be marked on the mounting plate 31 by other means, such as by attaching a sticker on which the boundary line 33 is printed to the mounting plate 31.

[0029] The two-dimensional code 34 is a code that represents at least an access destination to the shape management server 1 (for example, a URL (Uniform Resource Locator)) and a plate ID that is an identifier for the calibration plate 3. Here, the plate ID is an example of identification information for identifying a calibration member. Various means for attaching the two-dimensional code 34 to the mounting plate 31 are conceivable. For example, the two-dimensional code 34 can be attached to the mounting plate 31 by attaching a sticker on which the two-dimensional code 34 is printed to any position on the mounting plate 31. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2 etc., the two-dimensional code 34 is attached near the right side of the rear end of the mounting plate 31.

[0030] The following describes the detailed configuration of the shape management server 1. The shape management server 1 is configured with one or more computers equipped with a control unit including a CPU, RAM, and ROM, and a storage unit, and each process described below is executed by this control unit. As shown in Fig. 1, the storage unit of the shape management server 1 is provided with the following databases: a plate database (DB) 11, a distribution destination database (DB) 12, a distribution status database (DB) 13, a subject database (DB) 14, and a measurement record database (DB) 15. The following describes the details of these databases.

[0031] (A) Plate DB11 The plate DB11 is a database that stores information related to the above-mentioned calibration plate 3. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the layout of the plate DB11. As shown in Fig. 4, the plate DB11 stores information such as the plate ID of the calibration plate 3, the body part that is photographed together with the calibration plate 3, the items to be measured at that part, and information for identifying a computer program used for measurement. Note that this computer program measures the shape of the body part of the subject included in the captured image by image processing.

[0032] In the example shown in FIG. 4, for example, for a calibration plate 3 with a plate ID of "100001 to 120000," it is specified that the part to be photographed is the instep of the foot, that items such as "foot length and foot width" can be measured, and that the measurement process is performed using the program "aaa." Note that FIG. 4 shows "pressure distribution" as an example of a measurement item. It is possible to employ a configuration in which a pressure distribution measuring device is provided on the mounting plate 31 of the calibration plate 3, and in that case, the pressure distribution when both feet of the person being measured are placed on the mounting plate 31 can be the measurement item.

[0033] (B) Distribution destination DB12 As described above, the calibration plates 3 are distributed in advance to stores that sell shoes, etc. The distribution destination DB 12 is a database that stores information about the distribution destinations. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the layout of the distribution destination DB 12. As shown in FIG. 5, the distribution destination DB 12 stores a distribution destination ID that is an identifier of the distribution destination, the name and contact information of the distribution destination, and information indicating the photography environment at the distribution destination.

[0034] In the example shown in Fig. 5, for example, for a recipient with a recipient ID of "500001", the name is "XX Store", the contact information is an email address of "xxx@xx.xx", and the shooting environment is specified as "high illumination", etc. Note that the contact information may be something other than an email address, and the shooting environment may be information other than illumination.

[0035] (C) Distribution Status DB13 The distribution status DB 13 is a database that stores information related to the distribution status of the calibration plates 3. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the layout of the distribution status DB 13. As shown in Fig. 6, the distribution status DB 13 stores the plate ID of the calibration plates 3 distributed to the recipients, the recipient IDs of the recipients, the distribution dates, and information indicating the current usage status.

[0036] In the example shown in FIG. 6, for example, 100 calibration plates 3 with plate IDs "100001 to 1000100" were distributed to a recipient with a recipient ID of "500001" on "2024 / 01 / 10" and are currently in use. Each calibration plate 3 has a predetermined usable period, and is considered "usable" if it is within the usable period and "unusable" if it is outside the usable period. Furthermore, even during the usable period, if the use of the calibration plate 3 is to be stopped due to reasons such as the operator of the shape management server 1 or the recipient, it is considered "disabled."

[0037] (D) Subject DB14 The subject DB 14 is a database that stores information about subjects. For example, when a customer visiting a shoe store becomes a subject, a store staff member obtains the customer's name, age, and other information from the customer and notifies the shape management server 1 using the user terminal 2. In this case, the shape management server 1 uses the information received from the user terminal 2 to register information about the subject in the subject DB 14. The customer may also provide information such as the customer's name to the shape management server 1 using their own information terminal.

[0038] Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the layout of the subject DB 14. As shown in Fig. 7, the subject DB 14 stores subject IDs, which are identifiers of the subjects, names of the subjects, and information indicating other attributes (age, sex, occupation, etc.) of the subjects.

[0039] In the example shown in Figure 7, for example, it is specified that the name of the person being measured whose ID is "900001" is "XXX", and that the person being measured has attributes such as "30 years old, female, office worker".

[0040] Based on the concept of PHR, the shape management server 1 continuously records and manages shape data related to the body of each subject. Therefore, although it is necessary to identify the subject, it is not necessarily necessary to know the subject's attributes, such as name. Therefore, these attributes do not necessarily need to be stored in the subject DB 14.

[0041] Furthermore, the subject ID may be an identifier already assigned to each subject, such as a personal identification number (My Number), a driver's license number, or an employee ID.

[0042] (E) Measurement results DB15 The measurement history DB 15 is a database that stores measurement results of body parts of a person being measured. Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the layout of the measurement history DB 15. As shown in Fig. 8, the measurement history DB 15 stores information such as the measurement date and time, the plate ID of the calibration plate 3 used in the measurement, a distribution destination ID indicating the store where the measurement was performed, the subject ID of the person being measured, and information indicating the measurement results. In this way, the measurement results are registered in the measurement history DB 15 in association with the calibration plate 3.

[0043] 8, numerical values ​​such as "foot length, foot width" are exemplified as the measurement results, but the present invention is not limited to these. For example, when two-dimensional or three-dimensional shape data indicating the shape of the subject's feet is obtained by the measurement process, the shape data itself or information such as the storage location of the shape data may be stored in the measurement record DB 15 as the measurement result.

[0044] (System Operation) The operation of the shape management system will be described below using as an example a case where a person to be measured visits a shoe store and the shape of the instep of the person's foot is measured using the calibration plate 3. The shape management system of this embodiment executes (1) a measurement and recording process for measuring the shape of the instep of the person's foot and recording the results, and (2) a billing process for charging for the measurement and recording. The details of each of these processes will be described below.

[0045] (1) Measurement and recording process First, the sales store staff member uses the camera 23 of the user terminal 2 to read the two-dimensional code 34 attached to the mounting plate 31 of the calibration plate 3 provided at the sales store. The user terminal 2 identifies the access destination represented by the two-dimensional code 34 by reading it, and accesses the access destination, i.e., the shape management server 1. This starts the measurement and recording process that is executed between the shape management server 1 and the user terminal 2.

[0046] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure for the measurement recording process. The sales store staff inputs the subject ID of the person being measured using the input unit 21 of the user terminal 2. If the My Number is used as the subject ID, the user terminal 2 may input the subject ID by reading the My Number card. If the subject ID has not been assigned to this subject, the subject ID does not need to be input. In that case, the shape management server 1 will assign a subject ID to this subject. Here, the explanation will continue assuming that the subject ID has already been assigned.

[0047] When the user terminal 2 receives the input of the subject's ID from the staff member (S101), it acquires a foot image of the subject (S102). Prior to acquiring this foot image, the subject places both feet on the mounting plate 31 of the calibration plate 3 provided at the store. At this time, the subject places both their right and left feet on the mounting plate 31 across the boundary line 33 as described above, and then places the heels of both feet on the surface of the standing plate 32. While the subject maintains this position, the staff member operates the user terminal 2 and captures an image of the entire calibration plate 3 using the camera 23. This results in a foot image that includes the insteps of both feet of the subject and the entire calibration plate 3 (S102).

[0048] Next, the user terminal 2 transmits the acquired foot image and ID information to the shape management server 1 (S103). Here, the ID information includes the subject ID input in step S101 and the plate ID represented by the two-dimensional code 34 attached to the calibration plate 3.

[0049] When the shape management server 1 receives a foot image and ID information from the user terminal 2 (S201), it determines whether the calibration plate 3 identified by the plate ID has been distributed and is usable (S203) based on the plate ID included in the ID information and the distribution status DB 13. Here, if the calibration plate 3 has not been distributed or has been distributed but is unusable, that is, if it cannot be said that the calibration plate 3 has been distributed and is usable (NO in S202), the shape management server 1 transmits measurement disabled information indicating that the measurement process cannot be performed to the user terminal 2 (S203).

[0050] When the user terminal 2 receives the measurement impossible information from the shape management server 1 (S104), it displays an error message on the display unit 22 indicating that the shape management server 1 has refused to perform the measurement (S105). In this way, if the distribution of the calibration plate 3 used this time cannot be confirmed or if its use has already ended, the measurement recording process ends without performing the measurement process. This makes it possible to avoid situations where the measurement process is performed fraudulently or inappropriately.

[0051] If it is determined in step S202 that the current calibration plate 3 has been distributed and is currently in use (YES in S202), the shape management server 1 refers to the plate DB 11 to identify the computer program to be used in the current measurement (S204), and uses that computer program to measure the shape of the insteps of both feet of the subject, which are included in the foot images (S205). At this time, the shape and boundary line 33 of the calibration plate 3 included in the foot images are used as a reference for measuring the shape of the insteps of each foot of the subject. Furthermore, the photographing environment stored in the distribution DB 12 is used for appropriate correction. This enables highly accurate measurements.

[0052] Next, the shape management server 1 generates foot shape data of the subject based on the results of the measurement process (S206). This provides numerical data such as the foot length and foot width of both feet of the subject. The shape management server 1 registers the measurement results including the shape data in the measurement record DB 15 (S207), and further transmits measurement result information including the shape data to the user terminal 2 (S208).

[0053] When the user terminal 2 receives the measurement result information from the shape management server 1 (S106), it uses the measurement result information to display the measurement results, including the shape data, on the display unit 22 (S107). The person in charge at the shoe store will inform the person to be measured of this shape data, and will identify shoes that are suitable for the person to be measured based on the shape data, and will then explain the shoes to the person or suggest a purchase.

[0054] By repeatedly performing the above-described recording and measurement process on the same person, the shape data of that person is continuously recorded, which allows the condition of the person's feet to be managed and contributes to health promotion, etc.

[0055] Even if the above-mentioned recording and measurement process is performed only once for a certain subject, the measurement results at that time can be effectively utilized, and therefore the shape management system of this embodiment is useful. Therefore, the shape management system of this embodiment does not exclude cases where the recording and measurement process is performed only once for a certain subject.

[0056] Furthermore, in the above, measurement recording is possible when the calibration plate 3 has been distributed and is usable, but if it can be confirmed that it has been distributed, measurement recording may also be possible without confirming whether it is usable or not.

[0057] As described above, by making it possible to record measurements when the calibration plate 3 has already been distributed, it is possible to prevent the unauthorized use of a calibration plate 3 that has not been properly distributed by the operators of the shape management server 1, or the use of a calibration plate 3 that does not allow for proper calibration. This is advantageous for both the service provider and the user, and contributes to the realization of a sustainable service.

[0058] Furthermore, in the case of this embodiment, the measurement results are recorded and managed in association with the calibration plate 3, so it is possible to later determine which calibration plate 3 was used to obtain the measurement results. Therefore, for example, when the calibration plate 3 is replaced with a new one due to an improvement in the measurement computer program, there is an advantage in that the measurement results obtained using the previous calibration plate 3 can be appropriately compared with the measurement results obtained using the new calibration plate 3.

[0059] (2) Billing process The operator of the shape management server 1 requests payment for the measurement and recording from the recipient of the calibration plate 3. The billing process for charging this payment will be described below. This billing process is repeated at predetermined time intervals (for example, once a month).

[0060] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the billing process executed by the shape management server 1. The shape management server 1 first identifies the target period of the current billing process (for example, one month in February 2024) (S301), and further refers to the distribution destination DB 12 to identify the distribution destinations that are the targets of the current billing process (S302).

[0061] Next, the shape management server 1 tallies the number of measurement records for the recipient during the target period by referring to the measurement record DB 15 (S303).The shape management server 1 then calculates the usage fee by multiplying the number of measurement records by a predetermined usage fee (S304), and sends billing information including the usage fee to the email address of the recipient (S305).

[0062] In this way, in this embodiment, charges are made according to the number of measurements recorded for each recipient of the calibration plate 3. Therefore, even if multiple calibration plates 3 are used at one recipient, charges can be made uniformly to that recipient. Note that, because the measurement record DB 15 is also linked to the plate ID and the subject ID, it is also possible to calculate and charge a usage fee for each calibration plate or each subject.

[0063] (Other embodiments) In the above embodiment, the part to be imaged was the instep of the subject's foot, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the subject's hand could also be the part to be imaged. In this case, the calibration member would have a configuration suitable for imaging the hand. FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a calibration plate, which is an example of such a calibration member. Also, FIGS. 12A and 12B are front views showing the configuration of the calibration plate, and FIG. 12B shows the position of the subject's hand.

[0064] 11, the calibration plate 4 includes a rectangular mounting plate 41 whose upper portion is inclined backward at a predetermined angle, and a rectangular bottom plate 42 that is connected to the lower edge of the mounting plate 41 and supports the mounting plate 41. A boundary line 43 and a two-dimensional code 44 are marked on the front surface of the mounting plate 41.

[0065] Boundary line 43 is a rectangular line provided on the inside of mounting plate 41, and indicates the boundary of the area where the subject places the palm or back of either the right or left hand. In Fig. 12B, an example of the placement position of the palm or back of one of the subject's hands is shown by a dashed line. This boundary line 43, like boundary line 33 in the above embodiment, may be printed directly on the front surface of mounting plate 41, or may be attached to mounting plate 41 using a sticker or the like.

[0066] The two-dimensional code 44 is the same as the two-dimensional code 34 in the above embodiment. In the example shown in Fig. 11 etc., the two-dimensional code 44 is attached to the left side of the lower end of the mounting plate 41 in an area outside the boundary line 43, but it may be attached to another position on the mounting plate 41. Also, various means for attaching the two-dimensional code 44 to the mounting plate 41 are conceivable.

[0067] It is also possible to image the entire body of the subject. Figures 13A and 13B are front views showing the configuration of a calibration plate for such whole-body measurement, and Figure 13B shows the placement position of the subject's entire body.

[0068] 13A and 13B, the calibration plate 5 includes a vertically standing rectangular background plate 51. A boundary line 52 and a two-dimensional code 53 are provided on the front surface of the background plate 51.

[0069] Boundary line 52 is a rectangular line provided inside background board 51, and indicates the boundary of the area in which the subject's entire body is positioned. In FIG. 13B, an example of the position of the subject's entire body is shown by a dashed line. The subject stands in front of background board 51 so that the entire body fits within boundary line 52. However, if the subject stands with their arms outstretched, the tips of their hands may lie outside boundary line 52. Various means for providing boundary line 52 on background board 51 are conceivable.

[0070] The two-dimensional code 53 is the same as the two-dimensional code 34 in the above embodiment. In the example shown in Figures 13A and 13B, the two-dimensional code 53 is provided in an area slightly above the center of the right edge of the background board 51 and outside the boundary line 52, but it may be provided in another position on the background board 51. Furthermore, various means for providing the two-dimensional code 53 to the background board 51 are conceivable.

[0071] Alternatively, the soles of the subject's feet may be used as the imaging target. Fig. 14 is a perspective view showing the configuration of such a calibration plate for measuring the soles of the feet. Fig. 15A and Fig. 15B are plan views showing the configuration of the calibration plate, and Fig. 15B shows the position of the subject's feet.

[0072] 14, the calibration plate 6 has a bottomless box-shaped body 61, and a boundary line 63 and a two-dimensional code 64 are provided on a top surface 62 thereof. An opening 65 that connects the inside and outside of the box-shaped body 61 is provided on the front side surface of the box-shaped body 61. The top surface 62 is made of a transparent acrylic plate.

[0073] Boundary line 63 is a rectangular line provided on the inside of top surface 62, and indicates the boundary of the area where the subject places both their right and left feet. In Fig. 15B, an example of the placement position of both feet of the subject is shown by a dashed line. Various means for providing boundary line 63 on top surface 62 are conceivable.

[0074] The two-dimensional code 64 is the same as the two-dimensional code 34 in the above embodiment. In the example shown in Fig. 14 etc., the two-dimensional code 64 is attached to the right side of the rear end of the top surface 62, in an area outside the boundary line 63, but it may be attached to another position on the top surface 62. Also, various means for attaching the two-dimensional code 64 to the top surface 62 are conceivable.

[0075] When taking an image using the calibration plate 6, the person being measured places both feet within the boundary line 63 of the transparent top surface 62. At this time, the user terminal 2 is inserted into the box-shaped body 61 through the opening 65 and positioned so that it fits within the boundary line 63 in a plan view (see FIGS. 15A and 15B). In this state, the user terminal 2 takes an image of the upward direction using the camera 23, thereby obtaining a captured image including the soles of both feet of the person being measured through the transparent top surface 62. Furthermore, by including at least the boundary line 63 in this captured image, appropriate calibration can be performed in the measurement process.

[0076] When using the above-mentioned calibration plate 4 for hand measurement, calibration plate 5 for whole body measurement, and calibration plate 6 for sole measurement, the measurement recording process and billing process can be performed in the same manner as in the above-mentioned embodiment. When the calibration plate 4 for hand measurement is used, the length and width of the subject's hand are measured, when the calibration plate 5 for whole body measurement is used, the posture, shoulder width, waist width, etc. of the subject are measured, and when the calibration plate 6 for sole measurement is used, the length, width, etc. of the subject's foot, as well as the shape of the arch and the area of ​​the sole are measured.

[0077] In the above embodiment, the identification information of the calibration member is represented by a two-dimensional code and then attached to the calibration member, but this is not limiting. For example, the identification information may be coded in another format, such as a one-dimensional code, or may be attached to the calibration member as a character string or the like without being coded.

[0078] In the above embodiment, the identification information of the calibration member is directly attached to the calibration member, but this is not limiting, and the identification information may be indirectly attached to the calibration member. For example, the identification information may be attached to a tag attached to the calibration member, or to a paper medium distributed together with the calibration member. [Explanation of symbols]

[0079] 1. Shape management server 11 Plate Database 12 Distribution Database 13 Distribution Status Database 14 Subject database 15 Measurement results database 2. User terminal 21 Input section 22 Display section 23 Camera 3, 4, 5, 6 Calibration plate (calibration material) 33, 43, 52, 63 boundary line 34,44,53,64 2D code 101 Internet

Claims

1. an imaging device provided on the subject side for generating an image of a body part of the subject; a shape management server that is communicably connected to the imaging device and manages shape data indicating the shape of the part obtained based on the captured image; Equipped with A calibration member to be photographed together with the body part is distributed to the subject, The calibration member is provided with identification information for identifying the calibration member, The imaging device is an imaging unit that captures an image of the portion together with the calibration member; an acquisition unit that acquires identification information of the calibration member; a transmission unit that transmits the captured image and the identification information to the shape management server; Equipped with The shape management server a generation unit that generates shape data indicating a shape of the part by performing a measurement process on the captured image received from the imaging device; a management unit that manages the generated shape data in association with the calibration member identified by the identification information received from the imaging device; Equipped with Shape management system.

2. an imaging device provided on the subject side for generating an image of a body part of the subject; a shape management server that is communicably connected to the imaging device and manages shape data indicating the shape of the part obtained based on the captured image; Equipped with A calibration member to be photographed together with the body part is distributed to the subject, The calibration member is provided with identification information for identifying the calibration member, The imaging device is an imaging unit that captures an image of the portion together with the calibration member; an acquisition unit that acquires identification information of the calibration member; a transmission unit that transmits the captured image and the identification information to the shape management server; Equipped with The shape management server a calibration member information acquisition unit that acquires calibration member information regarding the calibration members that have already been distributed; a determination unit that determines whether or not the calibration member included in the captured image received from the imaging device has been distributed based on the acquired calibration member information and the identification information received from the imaging device; a generating unit that generates shape data indicating a shape of the part by performing a measurement process on the captured image when it is determined that the part has been distributed; a management unit for managing the generated shape data; Equipped with Shape management system.

3. a shape management server that is provided on the subject side, is communicably connected to an imaging device that generates captured images of body parts of the subject, and manages shape data indicating the shapes of the body parts obtained based on the captured images, A calibration member to be used for photographing the body part is distributed to the subject, Identification information for identifying the calibration member is attached to the calibration member, The imaging device is an imaging unit that captures an image of the portion together with the calibration member; an acquisition unit that acquires identification information of the calibration member; a transmission unit that transmits the captured image and the identification information to the shape management server; It is equipped with a generation unit that generates shape data indicating a shape of the part by performing a measurement process on the captured image received from the imaging device; a management unit that manages the generated shape data in association with the calibration member identified by the identification information received from the imaging device; Equipped with Shape management server.

4. a shape management server that is provided on the subject side, is communicably connected to an imaging device that generates captured images of body parts of the subject, and manages shape data indicating the shapes of the body parts obtained based on the captured images, A calibration member to be used for photographing the body part is distributed to the subject, Identification information for identifying the calibration member is attached to the calibration member, The imaging device is an imaging unit that captures an image of the portion together with the calibration member; an acquisition unit that acquires identification information of the calibration member; a transmission unit that transmits the captured image and the identification information to the shape management server; It is equipped with a calibration member information acquisition unit that acquires calibration member information regarding the calibration members that have already been distributed; a determination unit that determines whether or not the calibration member included in the captured image received from the imaging device has been distributed based on the acquired calibration member information and the identification information received from the imaging device; a generating unit that generates shape data indicating a shape of the part by performing a measurement process on the captured image when it is determined that the part has been distributed; a management unit for managing the generated shape data; Equipped with Shape management server.

5. A usable period is determined for the calibration member, the determination unit further determines whether or not the calibration member included in the captured image is usable; the generating unit generates the shape data when it is determined that the calibration member has been distributed and is usable. The shape management server according to claim 4 .

6. the calibration member information acquisition unit acquires calibration member information including a distribution destination of the calibration member; the management unit manages the shape data in association with the acquired distribution destination. The shape management server according to claim 5 .

7. a charging unit that generates charging information for charging each of the acquired distribution destinations; Further provided with The shape management server according to claim 6.

8. A plurality of measurement processes are prepared according to the type of the calibration member, a process specifying unit that specifies a measurement process to be applied from among a plurality of measurement processes based on the calibration member identified by the identification information; Furthermore, the generation unit generates the shape data by performing the specified measurement process on the captured image.

8. The shape management server according to claim 3.

9. 1. A shape management method for managing shape data indicating shapes of body parts of a subject, the shape data being obtained based on an image captured by an imaging device provided on the subject's side and generating an image of the body part, using a computer communicably connected to the imaging device, the imaging device comprising: A calibration member to be used for photographing the body part is distributed to the subject, Identification information for identifying the calibration member is attached to the calibration member, The imaging device is an imaging unit that captures an image of the portion together with the calibration member; an acquisition unit that acquires identification information of the calibration member; a transmission unit that transmits the captured image and the identification information to the shape management server; It is equipped with The computer generating shape data indicating the shape of the part by performing a measurement process on the captured image received from the imaging device; managing the generated shape data in association with the calibration member identified by the identification information received from the imaging device; Shape management method.

10. 1. A shape management method for managing shape data indicating shapes of body parts of a subject, the shape data being obtained based on an image captured by an imaging device provided on the subject's side and generating an image of the body part, using a computer communicably connected to the imaging device, the imaging device comprising: A calibration member to be used for photographing the body part is distributed to the subject, Identification information for identifying the calibration member is attached to the calibration member, The imaging device is an imaging unit that captures an image of the portion together with the calibration member; an acquisition unit that acquires identification information of the calibration member; a transmission unit that transmits the captured image and the identification information to the shape management server; It is equipped with The computer Acquire calibration material information regarding the calibration material that has already been distributed, determining whether or not the calibration member included in the captured image received from the imaging device has been distributed based on the acquired calibration member information and the identification information received from the imaging device; If it is determined that the image has been distributed, a measurement process is performed on the captured image to generate shape data indicating the shape of the part; Manage the generated shape data. Shape management method.

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