Imaging device, control method, information processing device, and information processing method

Abstract

To enable a game to be provided at various fees.SOLUTION: An imaging device according to one aspect of the present technology provides a game including imaging a user as a subject. When linkage between a user ID being identification information of the user and a housing ID being identification information assigned to a housing of the imaging device succeeds, and when the number of successful linkages, including linkage with a housing ID of another imaging device of a different model from the imaging device is greater than a predetermined number of times, the imaging device controls the start of the game by applying a fee lower than a normal fee as the play fee of the current game. The present technology can be applied to a photograph seal creation device that provides a series of games of printing the captured images onto a seal sheet.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] In particular, the present technology relates to a photographing device, a control method, an information processing device, and an information processing method that enable games to be provided at various rates. [Background technology]

[0002] Photo sticker creation devices are known in the art. These devices photograph a user, allow the user to edit the photographed image, and print the edited image on sticker paper. These photo sticker creation devices are installed in amusement facilities and the like.

[0003] The flow of a game provided by the photo sticker creation device typically involves taking a photo of the user in the photography space as the subject, then moving the user to the editing space, editing the image according to the operations performed in the editing space, and printing the edited image on sticker paper.

[0004] Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for acquiring user information including information such as the user's gender, and changing the settings of a photographing and printing device based on the user information. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-078805 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] While charging a lower amount than the standard may lead to an increase in repeat customers, depending on the store that installs the device, there is also a possibility that too many users will play for amounts that the store does not want.

[0007] The present technology has been developed in light of this situation, and makes it possible to provide games at various prices. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In one aspect of the present technology, a photographing device provides a game that includes photographing a user as a subject, and when a user ID, which is identification information of the user, is successfully linked with a cabinet ID, which is identification information assigned to the cabinet of the photographing device, including the link with the cabinet ID of another photographing device of a different model from the photographing device, and the number of successful links is greater than a predetermined number of times, the photographing device is provided with a control unit that applies a fee that is lower than the normal fee as a play fee for the current game and controls the start of the game.

[0009] An information processing device according to another aspect of the present technology includes a communication unit that communicates with a photographing device that provides a game that includes photographing a user as a subject, and a control unit that, when a link between a user ID, which is identification information of the user, and a cabinet ID, which is identification information assigned to the cabinet of the photographing device, is successful, and when the number of successful links, including the link with the cabinet ID of another photographing device of a model different from that of the photographing device, is greater than a predetermined number of times, applies a fee that is lower than a normal fee as a play fee for the current game and causes the photographing device to start the game.

[0010] In one aspect of the present technology, when a link between a user ID, which is identification information of a user, and a housing ID, which is identification information assigned to the housing of a photographing device, is successful, and the number of times the linking is successful is greater than a predetermined number of times, including the linking with the housing ID of another photographing device of a different model from the photographing device, the start of the game is controlled by applying a fee that is lower than the normal fee as the play fee for this game.

[0011] In another aspect of the present technology, communication is performed with a photographing device that provides a game that includes photographing a user as a subject, and when a user ID, which is identification information of the user, is successfully linked with a cabinet ID, which is identification information assigned to the cabinet of the photographing device, and the number of successful links is greater than a predetermined number of times, including the link with the cabinet ID of another photographing device of a different model from the photographing device, control is performed to cause the photographing device to start the game by applying a fee that is lower than the normal fee as the play fee for the current game. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to this technology, games can be offered at a variety of prices. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of ID federation in an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present technology. [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a play fee. [Figure 3] 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a photo sticker creating device; [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of screen transition. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of screen transition. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of screen transition. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen display on an editing monitor. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of screen transition. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a series of processes for ID federation. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of information uploaded from the photo sticker creating device. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of an image management server. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of an image management server. [Figure 13]It is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a photo sticker creation device. [Figure 14] It is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a mobile terminal. [Figure 15] It is a diagram showing an example of a discount target. [Figure 16] It is a diagram showing an example of a discount target. [Figure 17] It is a diagram showing an example of a discount target. [Figure 18] It is a diagram showing an example of ID linkage settings. [Figure 19] It is a diagram showing another example of ID linkage settings. [Figure 20] It is a diagram showing an example of a discount target. [Figure 21] It is a flowchart for explaining another series of processes of ID linkage. [Figure 22] It is a flowchart for explaining yet another series of processes of ID linkage.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0014] Hereinafter, the mode for carrying out the present technology will be described. The description will be made in the following order. 1. Regarding ID linkage 2. Screen transition of the photo sticker creation device 3. A series of processes of ID linkage 4. Configuration of each device 5. Conditions for discount targets 6. Examples of settings 7. Example of the number of users performing ID linkage 8. Other examples

[0015] <Regarding ID linkage> FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of ID linkage in an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0016] The image management service shown on the left side of Fig. 1 is an online service provided by an image management server 1 via the Internet 11. The image management server 1 provides an image provision service to users who access the server by operating a mobile terminal 2 such as a smartphone.

[0017] The image providing service is a membership-based service that allows users to view images on the mobile terminal 2 and download images to the mobile terminal 2. It may also be possible to use the image providing service to perform image editing and the like. The images provided to users of the mobile terminal 2 by the image providing service are images that are uploaded from the photo sticker creation device 3 as described below and managed in the image management server 1.

[0018] After playing the photo creation game of the photo sticker creation device 3, the user of the mobile terminal 2 operates the mobile terminal 2 to use the image providing service and view images of themselves together with friends, etc. A dedicated application 2A, which is an application for using the image providing service, is installed on the mobile terminal 2.

[0019] On the other hand, the photo sticker creation device 3 shown on the right side of Fig. 1 is a game machine that provides a photo creation game. The photo sticker creation device 3 is installed in a store such as a game center.

[0020] Users of the photo sticker creation device 3 are mainly high school girls and young women. Multiple users, usually two or three people per group, can enjoy the game with the photo sticker creation device 3. Of course, a single user can also enjoy the game with the photo sticker creation device 3.

[0021] In the photo creation game of the photo sticker creation device 3, the user takes a photo of themselves as the subject. The user edits the captured image to combine it with composite images such as handwritten characters and stamp images, and edits the captured image into a colorful image. The user receives a sticker sheet on which the edited captured image is printed, completing the series of games.

[0022] In this way, the photo sticker creating device 3 has a function as a photographing device that takes a photograph of the user as a subject. Images created by the user while playing the photo creation game are uploaded from the photo sticker creating device 3 to the image management server 1.

[0023] The photo sticker creation device 3 is equipped with a computer that controls the overall operation of the photo sticker creation device 3, a camera that takes pictures of the user, an editing monitor that the user uses to edit the images taken with the camera, a printer that prints the images on a printing medium such as sticker paper, etc. Details of the configuration of the photo sticker creation device 3 are disclosed in, for example, JP 2018-64220 A.

[0024] ID linking in the information processing system of FIG. 1 is performed when a user using the image providing service starts a photo creation game on the photo sticker creation device 3.

[0025] For example, when ID linking is performed, information such as the ID of the photo sticker creating device 3 that the user intends to use is transmitted to the image management server 1 from the portable terminal 2 carried by the user along with the user's ID.

[0026] The user ID may be, for example, the ID of an account used to use the image providing service. When an account for the image providing service is created, the ID is assigned by the image management server 1 in response to a user's operation. By creating an account and registering as a member, the user can use the image providing service.

[0027] If authentication using the user's ID is successful, the image management server 1 links the user's ID with the ID of the photo sticker creation device 3 that the user is attempting to use, thereby achieving a successful ID linking state as indicated by the two-way white arrow in Figure 1. ID linking is performed by linking and managing two IDs.

[0028] If ID federation is successful, the image management server 1 notifies the photo sticker creation device 3 that ID federation has been successful. The photo sticker creation device 3 sets a fee for playing the photo creation game that is, for example, lower than the normal fee, and allows the user to play the photo creation game in response to payment of the fee. The normal fee is a fee that is preset as a default fee for playing when ID federation is not performed.

[0029] In this way, ID linking is a process of linking a user who is about to start a photo creation game with the housing of the photo sticker creation device 3 that the user is about to use.

[0030] The play fee, which is lower than the regular fee, is set when a user successfully links their ID with a photo sticker creation device 3 on a certain machine twice, as shown in Figure 2, i.e., when the same user starts the photo creation game for the second time using the photo sticker creation device 3 on the same machine.

[0031] The example in Figure 2 shows how user A plays the photo creation game on cabinet A, which is a photo sticker creation device 3 on a certain cabinet, twice. As shown in the upper part of Figure 2, if ID linking is successful during the first play, the regular fee of, for example, 400 yen is set as the play fee. User A can play (play) the photo creation game on cabinet A by paying the regular fee of 400 yen.

[0032] If ID linking is successful during the first play, the user will be informed that they will be able to play at a discounted rate the next time they play. After the first photo creation game is over, when the user uses cabinet A to play the photo creation game for the second time, the user performs the same operations as during the first play to link their IDs for the second time.

[0033] As shown in the lower part of Figure 2, if ID linking is successful during the second play, a discounted fee of, for example, 300 yen is set as the play fee. User A can play the photo creation game on cabinet A by paying the discounted fee of 300 yen.

[0034] By linking IDs, users can play the photo creation game at a lower fee than the regular fee.

[0035] Furthermore, the photo sticker creating device 3 can identify the user who is about to start the photo creating game, and change the play fee depending on the user's usage status, etc.

[0036] <Photo Sticker Creation Device 3 Screen Transition> FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the photo sticker creating device 3. As shown in FIG.

[0037] As shown in Fig. 3, a pre-operation unit 21 is provided on the side of the photo sticker creation device 3, which has a box-shaped housing. The pre-operation unit 21 is a device used for operations before photography, such as selecting the number of users to play with and selecting the photography course. A touch panel monitor 21A is provided above the pre-operation unit 21. A coin slot 21B for paying a play fee is provided below the touch panel monitor 21A.

[0038] A screen used for various selections is displayed on touch panel monitor 21A. After making various selections according to the display on touch panel monitor 21A, the user enters the photography space through entrance G and begins photography. A box-shaped photography unit 31 with a built-in camera 31A is provided at the front of the photography space.

[0039] An editing unit 41 is provided to the left of the pre-operation unit 21. The editing unit 41 is a device used to edit captured images obtained by capturing images with the camera 31A. A user who has captured images in the capturing space moves to the editing space in front of the editing unit 41 and edits the captured images. An editing monitor 41A is provided on a slope formed above the editing unit 41. A screen used to edit the captured images is displayed on the editing monitor 41A.

[0040] The above-described ID federation is performed in accordance with the display on the touch panel monitor 21A provided in the advance operation unit 21. After the ID federation, a screen used for various selections is displayed on the touch panel monitor 21A.

[0041] ID linking at the start of your first game 4 to 6 are diagrams showing an example of screen transitions on the touch panel monitor 21A at the start of the first play.

[0042] When touch panel monitor 21A is touched, the link selection screen shown on the left side of Fig. 4 is displayed. At the top of the link selection screen, a message is displayed informing users that by linking IDs, the second play will be a discounted price of 300 yen. Below the message, a button 51 that is operated when linking IDs and a button 52 that is operated when not linking IDs are displayed.

[0043] Below the link selection screen, a message will be displayed informing you that the discounted rate is only valid at the store in question, and that the discounted rate is only valid for that day (until closing time).

[0044] When button 52 is pressed and it is selected not to link IDs, a coin insertion screen is displayed as indicated by arrow A1. The coin insertion screen that is displayed when it is selected not to link IDs displays a message prompting the user to pay the regular fee of 400 yen. For example, when 400 yen worth of coins are inserted into coin insertion slot 21B and the play fee is paid, the photo creation game begins.

[0045] On the other hand, when button 51 is pressed on the link selection screen and ID linking is selected, the link screen is displayed as shown by arrow A2. A message is displayed at the top of the link screen, instructing users to read a two-dimensional code using dedicated app 2A. A two-dimensional code 53 is displayed below the message. In the example of FIG. 4, even when multiple people play the photo creation game together, only one user can link their IDs.

[0046] 5, the user operates his / her mobile terminal 2 to start the dedicated application 2A, activates the reader function, and points the camera of the mobile terminal 2 toward the touch panel monitor 21A to read the two-dimensional code 53. The dedicated application 2A is equipped with a two-dimensional code reader function (reading function).

[0047] 5, information on the cabinet ID, store ID, and link ID is stored in the two-dimensional code 53. The two-dimensional code 53 is generated by the photo sticker creation device 3 and displayed on the link screen.

[0048] The housing ID is an ID assigned to the housing. The housing represents one photo sticker creating device 3. For example, a housing ID is set in advance for each housing.

[0049] A store ID is an ID assigned to a store. The store ID is set for each machine installed in the store. A single store may have multiple machines installed. The multiple machines may be the same model, or they may each be a different model. Machines of the same model provide the same photo creation game.

[0050] The association ID is an ID assigned for ID association. A different ID is assigned for each ID association. For example, when ID association is selected, communication takes place between the housing and the image management server 1, and the image management server 1 issues an association ID to the housing.

[0051] When the two-dimensional code 53 is read, the information stored in the two-dimensional code 53 is sent to the image management server 1, as shown by the white arrow in FIG.

[0052] The user's account ID managed by the dedicated app 2A is sent to the image management server 1 along with information on the case ID, store ID, and linkage ID. The account ID is an ID assigned by the image management server 1 when an account for using the image providing service is created. Other identification information that can uniquely identify a user, such as an email address, an SNS ID, or an ID that can be arbitrarily set by the user, may be used instead of the account ID.

[0053] In the image management server 1, user authentication is performed based on the information transmitted from the mobile terminal 2. The user authentication is performed by determining whether the same ID as the account ID transmitted from the mobile terminal 2 is registered as membership information for the image management service.

[0054] The image management server 1 manages membership information for each user who uses the image management service. The membership information includes information such as account ID, membership attributes (paid membership / free membership), nickname, and play history. The play history includes information such as the model of the photo sticker creation device 3 the user played with, the cabinet ID of the cabinet, and the store ID of the store.

[0055] User authentication is successful if the same ID as the account ID sent from the mobile terminal 2 is registered as membership information for the image management service. If user authentication is successful, the information such as the case ID sent from the mobile terminal 2 is linked to the account ID and managed.

[0056] This results in a successful ID linkage between the user who is about to start the photo creation game and the housing of the photo sticker creation device 3 that the user is about to use. When ID linkage is performed, the result of the ID linkage is sent from the image management server 1 to the photo sticker creation device 3.

[0057] If ID federation is successful, a message notifying the success of ID federation is displayed, as shown at the end of arrow A3 in Figure 6. The characters of "Aoharu"'s nickname included in the message notifying the success of ID federation are displayed based on the information notified from the image management server 1. If ID federation is successful, the image management server 1 sends the membership information of the user whose ID federation was successful.

[0058] Also, if the ID linking is successful, a message will be displayed indicating that the play fee for the next (second) play will be a discounted rate of 300 yen.

[0059] After this message is displayed, the coin insertion screen is displayed, as shown by the arrow A4. The coin insertion screen displays a message prompting the user to pay the regular fee of 400 yen. As mentioned above, even if ID linking is successful, the photo creation game can only be played for the discounted fee of 300 yen on the second play. For example, when 400 yen worth of coins are inserted into coin insertion slot 21B, the photo creation game begins.

[0060] The content of the photo creation game when ID federation is successful is basically the same as the content when ID federation is not performed. Pre-selection using the pre-operation unit 21, shooting using the shooting unit 31, and editing using the editing unit 41 are performed in that order. The content of the photo creation game may be changed when ID federation is successful. The number of times shooting can be performed, the type of content available when editing, etc. may be changed.

[0061] If ID linking is successful during the first play, a guide screen such as that shown in Fig. 7 is displayed on the editing monitor 41A at a predetermined timing, such as when editing is completed. The guide screen displays a message indicating that the play fee for the next play will be a discounted fee of 300 yen.

[0062] On the other hand, if ID federation fails, a message notifying that ID federation has failed is displayed, as shown by the tip of arrow A5 in Fig. 6. Below the message, a button 61 to be operated when playing without ID federation and a button 62 to be operated when stopping play are displayed. If ID federation fails, a button to be operated when trying to feed ID again may be displayed.

[0063] When button 61 is pressed and no ID linking is selected, a coin insertion screen is displayed as shown by arrow A6. A message prompting payment of the regular fee of 400 yen is displayed on the coin insertion screen. When 400 yen worth of coins are inserted into coin insertion slot 21B, the photo creation game starts.

[0064] ID linking when starting a second game FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of screen transitions on the touch panel monitor 21A at the start of the second play.

[0065] The display on the touch panel monitor 21A at the start of the second play is basically the same as the display at the start of the first play, and duplicated explanations will be omitted where appropriate.

[0066] When button 51 is pressed on the link selection screen (FIG. 4) and ID linking is selected, a link screen including two-dimensional code 53 is displayed. The user operates mobile terminal 2 to start dedicated app 2A, and points the camera of mobile terminal 2 toward touch panel monitor 21A to read two-dimensional code 53.

[0067] When the ID linkage is successful, as shown at the tip of arrow A11 in Fig. 8, a message notifying that the ID linkage has been successful is displayed, along with a message notifying that the play fee for this play is the discounted fee of 300 yen.

[0068] After such a message is displayed, as shown at the tip of arrow A12, a coin insertion screen is displayed. On the coin insertion screen, a message prompting payment of the discounted fee of 300 yen is displayed. As described above, when the ID linkage is successful during the second play, the user can play the photo creation game at the discounted fee of 300 yen. For example, when coins worth 300 yen are inserted into the coin insertion slot 21B, the photo creation game starts.

[0069] On the other hand, when the ID linkage fails, as shown at the tip of arrow A13 in Fig. 8, a message notifying that the linkage has failed is displayed. Below the message, a button 61 that is operated when playing without performing ID linkage and a button 62 that is operated when ending the play are displayed.

[0070] When button 61 is pressed and it is selected not to perform ID linkage, a coin insertion screen is displayed as shown at the tip of arrow A6. On the coin insertion screen, a message prompting payment of the normal fee of 400 yen is displayed. When coins worth 400 yen are inserted into the coin insertion slot 21B, the photo creation game starts.

[0071] In this way, at the start of the second play, when the ID linkage is successful, the photo creation game starts in response to payment of the discounted fee of 300 yen, and when the ID linkage fails, the photo creation game starts in response to payment of the normal fee of 400 yen.

[0072] Referring to the flowchart of Fig. 9, a series of processes for ID linkage in the information processing system will be described. The process in Fig. 9 starts, for example, when the user touches the touch panel monitor 21A.

[0073] In step S1, the photo sticker creating device 3 displays the cooperation selection screen (FIG. 4) on the touch panel monitor 21A.

[0074] If ID linking is selected, in step S2, the photo sticker creating device 3 requests the image management server 1 to issue a linking ID.

[0075] In step S21, the image management server 1 receives a request from the photo sticker creating device 3.

[0076] In step S22, the image management server 1 issues a link ID in response to a request from the photo sticker creating device 3.

[0077] In step S3, the photo sticker creating device 3 receives the information sent from the image management server 1 and acquires the association ID.

[0078] In step S4, the photo sticker creating device 3 generates a two-dimensional code based on information such as the housing ID, the store ID, and the linkage ID.

[0079] In step S5, the photo sticker creating device 3 displays a link screen including the two-dimensional code 53 on the touch panel monitor 21A.

[0080] When the user who has started the dedicated application 2A points the camera of the mobile terminal 2 at the two-dimensional code 53, in step S11, the dedicated application 2A of the mobile terminal 2 reads the two-dimensional code 53 using the reader function.

[0081] In step S12, the dedicated application 2A of the mobile terminal 2 transmits the account ID together with the information of the read two-dimensional code 53 to the image management server 1. The dedicated application 2A, which is an application for using the image management service, manages the account ID.

[0082] In step S23, the image management server 1 receives the information transmitted from the mobile terminal 2. The information transmitted from the mobile terminal 2 includes the housing ID, the store ID, the linkage ID, and the account ID.

[0083] In step S24, if the image management server 1 is successful in user authentication because the same ID as the received account ID is registered as member information, the image management server 1 associates the case ID with the account ID and manages them. Along with the case ID, information such as the store ID and linkage ID is also associated with the account ID and managed.

[0084] In step S25, the image management server 1 transmits information indicating the result of ID federation to the photo sticker creation device 3. If the ID federation is successful, the information indicating the result of ID federation, as well as member information including the nickname and account ID, information indicating how many times the current play has been performed using the same machine, and the like are transmitted to the photo sticker creation device 3. Information indicating the play fee according to the result of ID federation is also transmitted to the photo sticker creation device 3 as appropriate.

[0085] In step S6, the photo sticker creating device 3 receives information indicating the result of ID federation sent from the image management server 1. Instead of information indicating the result of ID federation being sent from the image management server 1, the photo sticker creating device 3 may repeatedly perform polling, and the result of ID federation may be received (acquired) from the image management server 1 by polling.

[0086] In step S7, the photo sticker creating device 3 displays a coin insertion screen according to the result of ID linking.

[0087] The play fee paid by the user when starting their first play will be 400 yen whether ID linking is successful or not. On the other hand, the play fee paid by the user when starting their second play will be 300 yen if ID linking is successful, and 400 yen if ID linking is not successful.

[0088] When coins corresponding to the result of ID linkage are inserted into the coin slot 21B, the photo creation game begins. Pre-selection using the pre-operation unit 21, photography using the photography unit 31, and editing using the editing unit 41 are performed in that order. For example, when editing of the photographed image is completed, the image is uploaded from the photo sticker creation device 3 to the image management server 1.

[0089] The linking ID may be issued by the photo sticker creation device 3, rather than by the image management server 1. In this case, for example, the linking ID is generated by the photo sticker creation device 3 based on the housing ID and the store ID, and is used as identification information for ID linking.

[0090] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of information uploaded from the photo sticker creating device 3. As shown in FIG.

[0091] 10, management information is added to images uploaded from the photo sticker creating device 3. The management information is information that is generated in the photo sticker creating device 3 to manage the uploaded images and is transmitted to the image management server 1. In the image management server 1, the uploaded images are managed in association with each piece of information included in the management information.

[0092] The management information includes a sticker ID, an image selection flag, and an email address.

[0093] The sticker ID is an ID issued by the photo sticker creation device 3 for each game in accordance with predetermined rules. Because it is an ID issued each time the photo creation game is played, it can also be said to be an ID for identifying the game.

[0094] The image selection flag is a flag that indicates the image selected by the user during the photo creation game as the image to be saved on the My Page screen.

[0095] For example, at a predetermined timing, such as when editing of a photographed image is completed, one image to be edited is selected using the screen displayed on editing monitor 41A. The My Page screen is a user-dedicated screen assigned to each user who has registered as a member, and is used for viewing images managed in image management server 1.

[0096] The email address is the user's email address entered during the photo creation game.

[0097] The email address is used by the image management server 1 to notify, for example, the URL assigned as the image storage destination by email. If there are two users, the email addresses of each user are included in the management information.

[0098] For example, at a predetermined timing, such as when editing of a photographed image is completed, an email address is entered using the screen displayed on the editing monitor 41A.

[0099] The email address of the user who has performed ID federation may be identified in the photo sticker creation device 3 based on the member information sent from the image management server 1 when ID federation is successful. In this case, the email address of the user who performed ID federation is not entered during the game. The email address included in the member information sent from the image management server 1 when ID federation is successful is used as the email address to be included in the management information.

[0100] <Configuration of each device> Image management server 1 configuration FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the image management server 1. As shown in FIG.

[0101] As shown in Figure 11, the image management server 1 is configured by a computer. The image management server 1 may be configured by multiple computers. When the image management server 1 is configured by multiple computers, the computers work together to realize various processes for providing the image provision service.

[0102] A CPU (Central Processing Unit) 101, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 102, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 103 are interconnected by a bus 104.

[0103] An input / output interface 105 is further connected to the bus 104. An input unit 106, an output unit 107, a storage unit 108, a communication unit 109, and a drive 110 are connected to the input / output interface 105.

[0104] The input unit 106 is made up of a keyboard, a mouse, etc. The output unit 107 is made up of a display, etc.

[0105] The storage unit 108 is configured with a hard disk, non-volatile memory, etc. The storage unit 108 stores various information used to provide the image providing service, such as the program executed by the CPU 101 and images uploaded from the photo sticker creation device 3.

[0106] The communication unit 109 is an interface to the Internet 11. For example, the communication unit 109 communicates with the photo sticker creation device 3 and receives images uploaded from the photo sticker creation device 3. The communication unit 109 also communicates with the mobile terminal 2 and transmits various information to the mobile terminal 2, such as information used for screen display and images selected to be downloaded.

[0107] The drive 110 controls writing of data to and reading of data from the removable medium 111 .

[0108] FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the image management server 1. As shown in FIG.

[0109] 12, an information processing unit 121 is implemented in the image management server 1. The image management server 1 is an information processing device having the information processing unit 121.

[0110] The information processing unit 121 is composed of an image acquisition unit 131, an image management unit 132, an image DB 133, a member information DB 134, and an ID federation management unit 135. At least some of the functional units shown in FIG. 12 are realized by the CPU 101 executing a predetermined program.

[0111] The image acquisition unit 131 acquires the image uploaded from the photo sticker creation device 3 and received by the communication unit 109 together with the management information. The image acquisition unit 131 outputs the image uploaded from the photo sticker creation device 3 and the management information to the image management unit 132.

[0112] The image management unit 132 associates the images supplied from the image acquisition unit 131 with management information, stores them in the image DB 133, and manages them. The image management unit 132 controls the communication unit 109 to transmit images of users who use the image provision service to the mobile terminal 2.

[0113] The image DB 133 stores images uploaded from the photo sticker creating device 3 together with management information.

[0114] The member information DB 134 stores member information of users who use the image providing service. The member information stored in the member information DB 134 is referenced by the image management unit 132 when providing an image, and is also referenced by the ID federation management unit 135 when ID federation is performed.

[0115] The ID federation management unit 135 controls the communication unit 109 to communicate with the mobile terminal 2 and the photo sticker creation device 3 and manage ID federation. Each process of the image management server 1 described with reference to Fig. 9 is performed by the ID federation management unit 135. If ID federation is successful, the ID federation management unit 135 functions as a control unit that causes the photo sticker creation device 3 to start a photo creation game in response to payment of the discounted fee of 300 yen, and if ID federation is unsuccessful, causes the photo sticker creation device 3 to start a photo creation game in response to payment of the regular fee of 400 yen.

[0116] Photo sticker creation device 3 configuration Fig. 13 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the photo sticker creating device 3. Of the configuration shown in Fig. 13, the same components as those described above are given the same reference numerals, and duplicated explanations will be omitted as appropriate.

[0117] As shown in FIG. 13, the photo sticker creating device 3 is configured by connecting a pre-operation unit 21, a photographing unit 31, an editing unit 41, a communication unit 212, and a printing unit 213 to a control unit 211 configured by a PC.

[0118] The control unit 211 executes a predetermined program using the CPU, and in accordance with the progress of the game, controls the overall operation of the photo sticker creation device 3. In the control unit 211, a game control unit 221, an ID linking execution unit 222, a display control unit 223, and a setting management unit 224 are realized by executing the predetermined program.

[0119] The game control unit 221 controls a series of game processes such as pre-selection processing, photographing processing, editing processing, and printing processing.

[0120] The pre-selection process is a process that allows the user to make various selections, such as the selection of a photography course, before the photography process.

[0121] The photographing process is a process of photographing the user as a subject.

[0122] The editing process is a process of editing the captured image obtained by the photographing process.

[0123] The printing process is a process of arranging the edited images obtained by the editing process in a predetermined layout and printing them on sticker paper. The sticker paper on which the edited images are printed is provided to the user through an outlet provided in a predetermined position on the housing. The printing process also includes a process of uploading the user's images, such as edited images created in the photo creation game, to the image management server 1.

[0124] The ID federation execution unit 222 controls the communication unit 212 to communicate with the image management server 1 and executes ID federation. Of the processes of the photo sticker creation device 3 described with reference to FIG. 9, the processes of steps S2, S3, S4, and S6 are processes performed by the ID federation execution unit 222.

[0125] The display control unit 223 causes various screens operated by the user during the pre-selection process to be displayed on the touch panel monitor 21A. The display control unit 223 also causes various screens operated by the user during the editing process to be displayed on the editing monitor 41A.

[0126] The display control unit 223 also displays the screens of the touch panel monitor 21A operated by the user during ID linking, such as the link selection screen and the link screen including the two-dimensional code. Of the processes of the photo sticker creation device 3 described with reference to FIG. 9, the processes of steps S1, S5, and S7 are processes performed by the display control unit 223.

[0127] The setting management unit 224 manages setting information, which is information that indicates the contents of ID linkage settings. For example, when the photo sticker creating device 3 is operated in maintenance mode, the store manager sets up ID linkage using a setting screen that is displayed on the editing monitor 41A.

[0128] As a setting for ID federation, for example, the amount of the discounted fee is set. In the above example, 300 yen, which is 100 yen cheaper than the regular fee, is set as the amount of the discounted fee.

[0129] Additionally, the conditions for discount pricing are set as part of the ID linking settings. Conditions such as the period during which the discount pricing is valid and the number of plays required before the discount pricing is valid are set. In the example above, the period during which the discount pricing is valid is from the time the first play was made until closing time on the same day. Also, the number of plays required before the discount pricing is valid is from the second play onwards.

[0130] In addition to setting up ID linkage, various settings such as settings related to the progress of the photo creation game, such as the volume of background music, and settings for the operating hours of the photo sticker creation device 3, are made by the administrator of the photo sticker creation device 3 using the settings screen.

[0131] The pre-operation unit 21 displays a predetermined screen on the touch panel monitor 21A and performs a pre-selection process for the user before starting shooting. Information indicating the user's selection in the pre-selection process is supplied to the control unit 211.

[0132] The photographing unit 31 drives the camera 31A to photograph a user in the photographing space as a subject. For example, by photographing multiple times, multiple photographed images are acquired. The photographed images acquired by the photographing unit 31 are supplied to the control unit 211.

[0133] The editing unit 41 performs editing processing on the user in the editing space. The editing processing includes image processing for editing the captured image. The captured image is edited using an editing screen displayed on the editing monitor 41A. After editing the captured image, the editing unit 41 generates print data by arranging the edited image in a predetermined layout and outputs the print data to the control unit 211.

[0134] The communication unit 212 communicates with external devices such as the image management server 1.

[0135] The printing unit 213 has a printer. The printing unit 213 drives the printer and prints the edited photographed image on sticker paper based on the print data.

[0136] Mobile device 2 configuration FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the mobile terminal 2. As shown in FIG.

[0137] As shown in FIG. 14, the mobile terminal 2 is provided with a control unit 301, a communication unit 302, a memory 303, a display 304, an operation unit 305, and a camera 306.

[0138] The control unit 301 is configured with a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, etc. The control unit 301 controls the overall operation of the mobile terminal 2 by executing a predetermined program.

[0139] An application execution unit 301A is implemented in the control unit 301. The dedicated application 2A is executed by the application execution unit 301A, thereby implementing the processes described with reference to FIG.

[0140] The communication unit 302 communicates with the image management server 1 via the Internet 11. The communication unit 302 receives information transmitted from the image management server 1 and outputs it to the control unit 301.

[0141] The memory 303 is configured by a flash memory, etc. The memory 303 stores various information such as images downloaded from the image management server 1 and applications executed by the control unit 301.

[0142] The display 304 is configured by an organic EL display, an LCD, etc. The display 304 displays various screens such as the screen of the dedicated application 2A.

[0143] The operation unit 305 is configured with various buttons and a touch panel provided over the display 304. The operation unit 305 outputs to the control unit 301 a signal indicating the content of a user's operation.

[0144] The camera 306 reads the two-dimensional code 53 displayed on the photo sticker creating device 3 and outputs the read image to the control unit 301 .

[0145] <Discount conditions> Examples of discounted cases A discounted rate is set when the second play is made using the same machine as the first play, but the discount may also be applied to a machine different from the machine used for the first play.

[0146] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example in which all cabinets installed in the same store are eligible for a discount.

[0147] 15, three photo sticker creation devices 3, cabinets #1 to #3, are installed in store A, and one photo sticker creation device 3, cabinet #11, is installed in store B. Cabinets #1 and #2 installed in store A and cabinet #11 installed in store B are cabinets of model A, and cabinet #3 installed in store A is a cabinet of model B.

[0148] The store ID of store A is "XA," and the housing IDs of housings #1 to #3 are "10001," "10002," and "20005," respectively. The store ID of store B is "XB," and the housing ID of housing #11 is "10003."

[0149] For example, suppose a user plays for the first time using cabinet #1 and successfully links their ID. In this case, as shown by arrows A31 to A33, cabinets #1 to #3 installed in the same store A as cabinet #1 are eligible for the discount. Also, as shown by arrow A34, cabinet #11 installed in store B is not eligible for the discount.

[0150] The user can use cabinets #2 and #3 installed in store A to play a second time at a discounted rate.

[0151] When ID federation is performed, the cabinet ID and store ID are linked to the account ID and managed in the image management server 1. In the example described above, in response to successful ID federation at the start of the first play, the store ID "XA" and cabinet ID "10001" are linked to the account ID and managed.

[0152] Furthermore, when ID linking is performed at the start of a second play, if, for example, information including the store ID "XA" and the cabinet ID "20005" is sent from the mobile device 2 along with the account ID, the image management server 1 determines that the ID linking has been successful and notifies cabinet #3 of this fact. In response to the notification from the image management server 1, cabinet #3 sets the play fee to the discounted price of 300 yen.

[0153] Cabinet #3 (control unit 211 of cabinet #3) will offer a second play at a discounted rate to users who successfully link their IDs using cabinet #1 installed in the same store as cabinet #3.

[0154] In this way, whether or not the machine is installed in the same store as the machine used for the first play is determined based on the store ID, and all machines installed in the same store are set as eligible for the discount.

[0155] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example in which the housings of the same model are eligible for a discount.

[0156] For example, suppose a user plays for the first time using cabinet #1 and successfully links their ID. In this case, as indicated by arrows A41, A42, and A44, cabinets #1 and #2 installed in store A and cabinet #11 installed in store B, which are cabinets of the same model A as cabinet #1, are eligible for the discount. Also, as indicated by arrow A43, cabinet #3, which is a cabinet of model B, is not eligible for the discount.

[0157] The model of each housing is identified, for example, by the first digit of the housing ID. In the above example, the housing IDs of housings #1, #2, and #11, "10001," "10002," and "10003," each having a first digit of "1," are housing IDs that represent model A. Furthermore, the housing ID of housing #3, "20005," having a first digit of "2," is a housing ID that represents model B. A model ID that serves as identification information for the model may be set for each housing.

[0158] When ID linking is performed at the start of a second play, if information including a cabinet ID of "10003" whose first digit is "1" is sent from mobile device 2 along with the account ID, image management server 1 determines that ID linking has been successful and notifies cabinet #11 of this fact. In response to the notification from image management server 1, cabinet #11 sets the play fee to the discounted price of 300 yen.

[0159] Cabinet #11 (control unit 211 of cabinet #11) will offer a second play at a discounted rate to a user who has successfully linked IDs using cabinet #1 of the same model as cabinet #11.

[0160] In this way, whether or not the cabinet is the same model as the cabinet on which the first play was performed is determined based on the cabinet ID, and all cabinets of the same model are set as eligible for the discount.

[0161] FIG. 17 shows an example in which cabinets of the same model installed in the same store are eligible for a discount.

[0162] For example, suppose a user plays for the first time using cabinet #1 and successfully links their ID. In this case, as shown by the arrows A51 and A52, cabinets #1 and #2, which are installed in the same store as cabinet #1 and are cabinets of the same model A as cabinet #1, are eligible for the discount. Also, as shown by the arrows A53 and A54, cabinet #3, which is a cabinet of model B, and cabinet #11, which is installed in store B, are not eligible for the discount.

[0163] Whether the machine is installed in the same store as the machine used for the first play and is the same model is determined based on the store ID and machine ID described above.

[0164] In this way, various conditions can be set for the cabinets that are eligible for the discount. The store manager can freely set the affiliated stores that are eligible for the discount, the models that are eligible for the discount, etc.

[0165] Examples of discount periods Although a discounted price is set if a second play is made before closing time on the same day (same day) as the first play, other periods may also be applicable for the discount. The discount period may be set in units of time, such as one hour, or in units of days. Any period may be set, such as until closing time on the same day, until 4:00 PM on the same day, or up to one week later.

[0166] In this way, if a specified period is set as the period during which play at a discounted rate is valid, after the specified period has elapsed, the play fee will be set to the regular rate even if ID linking is successful.

[0167] Examples of the number of plays eligible for the discount Although a discounted rate is set when playing for the second time, if ID linking is successful, the discounted rate may be set from the first play, or from the third play onwards.

[0168] Also, the discount may be applied to only the second play, or multiple plays.

[0169] In this way, if a predetermined number of plays is set as the number of times that the discounted rate is valid, after the predetermined number of plays at the discounted rate have been played, the play fee will be set to the regular rate even if ID linking is successful. If the number of plays eligible for the discounted rate is set to one, as described above, if the second play is played at the discounted rate of 300 yen, the play fee for the third play will be set to the regular rate of 400 yen.

[0170] In this way, by being able to set conditions such as the period and number of times that discounted play is valid, it is possible to prevent excessive discounted play and a drop in store sales.

[0171] <Example of settings> FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating an example of ID federation settings.

[0172] The store manager configures the ID linking settings, such as the conditions for enabling discounted play. The store manager may configure the settings by starting each machine in maintenance mode, or, as shown in Figure 18, the settings may be configured over a network using a terminal such as a PC that can communicate with each machine.

[0173] When multiple units are installed in one store and connected via a network as shown in Fig. 18, setting information indicating the ID federation settings of each unit may be transmitted and received between the units. When the setting information is transmitted and received at a predetermined timing such as when the unit is restarted, a confirmation screen is displayed to ask the administrator whether or not to use the same settings based on the setting information.

[0174] The cabinets may communicate with each other in real time, synchronize settings, and set play fees. By synchronizing the settings of multiple cabinets, it is possible to reduce the time and effort required for administrators to set up the machines and prevent setting errors on the part of the store.

[0175] FIG. 19 is a diagram showing another example of the ID linkage setting.

[0176] As shown in FIG. 19, the ID linkage setting may be performed according to the control by the image management server 1 performed via the Internet 11. The ID linkage management unit 135 of the image management server 1 generates setting information representing the content of the ID linkage setting, for example, according to an operation performed by a store manager on the browser screen, and transmits it to the target housing. The setting management unit 224 (FIG. 13) of the photo sticker creation device 3 performs the ID linkage setting according to the setting information transmitted from the image management server 1.

[0177] As described above, the setting management unit 224 of the photo sticker creation device 3 performs the ID linkage setting according to the operation by the store manager on the housing or according to the control by the image management server 1. The amount of the first play fee (normal fee), the number of plays until the discount fee becomes valid, the amount of the discount fee, the number of plays for which the discount fee is valid, the period for which the discount fee is valid, etc. are set by the setting management unit 224 of the photo sticker creation device 3.

[0178] The ID linkage setting may be performed according to the control by a device different from the image management server 1. The ID linkage setting is performed according to the control by various external devices such as the image management server 1 and devices installed in the store.

[0179] <Example of the number of users performing ID linkage> A plurality of users who play the photo creation game together using the photo sticker creation device 3 may each perform ID linkage.

[0180] For example, when user A and user B, who are two users, succeed in ID linkage at the start of the first play, as shown in FIG. 20, only user A may be subject to discount at the time of the second play.

[0181] In this way, even if multiple users have successfully linked their IDs, it is possible to limit the number of users eligible for the discount.

[0182] Naturally, all users who have successfully completed ID federation may be eligible for the discount, or up to a certain number of users may be eligible for the discount.

[0183] The timing of ID linking for users playing together in a photo creation game may be different, such as the first user linking IDs as described above when starting to play, and the second user linking IDs at a predetermined timing after the game has started.

[0184] The ID federation of the second user is performed at a predetermined timing, such as after payment of the play fee and before starting shooting, after shooting and before starting editing, or after editing. As described above, the user playing the photo creation game is identified by ID federation. ID federation may be performed instead of inputting an email address after editing. The second user may perform ID federation immediately after the first user performs ID federation and before payment of the play fee.

[0185] If the ID linking of the second user is successful, the information sent from the image management server 1 to the photo sticker creation device 3 includes a flag indicating that the user who successfully linked the ID is not a user eligible for the discount.

[0186] <Other examples> Example of ID linking on the photo sticker creation device 3 The process of managing the case ID and the account ID in association with each other may be performed in the photo sticker creating device 3.

[0187] In this case, the portable terminal 2 reads the two-dimensional code displayed on the link screen of the photo sticker creation device 3 in response to a user's operation, and transmits information such as the case ID to the image management server 1, and the information is acquired by the photo sticker creation device 3 via the image management server 1. In the photo sticker creation device 3, the case ID and account ID transmitted from the portable terminal 2 via the image management server 1 are linked and managed.

[0188] A series of processes when ID linking is performed on the photo sticker creating device 3 side will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0189] The processing of the photo sticker creating device 3 in steps S51 to S55 in Fig. 21 is the same as the processing of steps S1 to S5 in Fig. 9. The processing of the mobile terminal 2 in steps S61 and S62 is the same as the processing of steps S11 and S12 in Fig. 9. The processing of the image management server 1 in steps S71 to S73 is the same as the processing of steps S21 to S23 in Fig. 9. Duplicate explanations will be omitted as appropriate.

[0190] If user authentication using information sent from the mobile terminal 2, such as the housing ID, store ID, association ID, and account ID, is successful, in step S74, the image management server 1 sends the information sent from the mobile terminal 2 to the photo sticker creation device 3.

[0191] In step S56, the photo sticker creating device 3 receives the information sent from the image management server 1.

[0192] In step S57, the photo sticker creating apparatus 3 manages the case ID and the account ID in association with each other, thereby realizing ID linkage.

[0193] In step S58, the photo sticker creating device 3 displays a coin insertion screen according to the result of ID linking. When coins of the amount according to the result of ID linking are inserted into the coin insertion slot 21B, the photo creation game starts.

[0194] In this way, it is possible for ID linking to be performed on the side of the photo sticker creating device 3. In this case, too, it is possible for the photo sticker creating device 3 to issue a linking ID.

[0195] Example of reading a 2D code on the photo sticker creation device 3 Instead of using the mobile terminal 2 to read the two-dimensional code displayed on the touch panel monitor 21A of the photo sticker creating device 3, the photo sticker creating device 3 may read the two-dimensional code displayed on the display of the mobile terminal 2. In this case, the pre-operation unit 21 of the photo sticker creating device 3 is provided with a two-dimensional code reading unit such as a camera or a code reader.

[0196] A series of processes when the two-dimensional code is read on the photograph sticker creating device 3 side will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0197] When ID federation is initiated, the user launches the dedicated application 2A and performs an operation to perform ID federation. When an instruction to perform ID federation is given, in step S91, the dedicated application 2A of the mobile terminal 2 requests the image management server 1 to issue a federation ID.

[0198] In step S101, the image management server 1 receives a request from the dedicated application 2A.

[0199] In step S102, the image management server 1 issues an association ID in response to a request from the dedicated application 2A.

[0200] In step S92, the dedicated application 2A receives the information transmitted from the image management server 1 and acquires the association ID.

[0201] In step S93, the dedicated application 2A generates a two-dimensional code based on information such as the account ID, the linkage ID, etc. The two-dimensional code represents the account ID and the linkage ID.

[0202] In step S94, the dedicated application 2A displays the two-dimensional code on the display 304. The user points the display 304 of the portable terminal 2 toward the reading unit of the photo sticker creating device 3, causing the two-dimensional code to be read.

[0203] In step S81, the photo sticker creating device 3 reads the two-dimensional code.

[0204] In step S82, the photo sticker creating device 3 transmits the housing ID and the store ID to the image management server 1 together with the information of the read two-dimensional code.

[0205] In step S103, the image management server 1 receives information transmitted from the photo sticker creating device 3. The information transmitted from the photo sticker creating device 3 includes a housing ID, a store ID, a linkage ID, and an account ID.

[0206] In step S104, if the image management server 1 is successful in user authentication because the same ID as the received account ID is registered as member information, the image management server 1 associates the case ID with the account ID and manages them. Along with the case ID, information such as the store ID and linkage ID is also associated with the account ID and managed.

[0207] In step S105, the image management server 1 transmits information indicating the result of ID federation to the photo sticker creation device 3. If the ID federation is successful, the information indicating the result of ID federation, as well as member information including the nickname and account ID, information indicating how many times the current play has been performed using the same machine, and the like are transmitted to the photo sticker creation device 3.

[0208] In step S83, the photo sticker creating device 3 receives information indicating the result of ID linkage transmitted from the image management server 1.

[0209] In step S84, the photo sticker creating device 3 displays a coin insertion screen according to the result of ID linking. When coins of the amount according to the result of ID linking are inserted into the coin insertion slot 21B, the photo creation game starts.

[0210] In this way, it is possible for the photo sticker creating device 3 to read the two-dimensional code.

[0211] Discounted rate examples The discount rate when ID linking is successful may vary depending on the status of the machine and the status of the user, and the amount of the play fee may vary.

[0212] For machines or cabinets with poor operating conditions, such as machines or cabinets with operating rates below a threshold, a play fee is set that is lower than the fee applied to machines or cabinets with good operating conditions. Operating conditions are determined, for example, based on at least one of the operating rate, operating time, number of plays, and play time.

[0213] For example, if the discounted play fee for machine A is 300 yen, the discounted play fee for machine B, which is in poorer operating condition than machine A, is set at 200 yen. A lower play fee may be applied to the malfunctioning machine.

[0214] This will make it possible to increase the number of plays on machines and cabinets that are not operating well.

[0215] The discounted play fee may vary depending on the number of users who successfully link their IDs. For example, if two users successfully link their IDs, a lower play fee will be applied than if one user successfully links their IDs. Increasing the number of users eligible for the discount can encourage more people to use the photo sticker creation device 3.

[0216] The discounted play fee may vary depending on the membership type of the user who successfully linked their ID. As described above, members of the image management service are classified into paid members and free members. For example, if the membership type of the user who successfully linked their ID is a paid member, a lower play fee will be applied than if the membership type of the user who successfully linked their ID is a free member. This makes it possible to encourage paid membership registration.

[0217] In this way, the play fee may be set based on at least one of the following combinations: the settings for the cabinet, the model of the photo sticker creation device 3, the number of users who have successfully linked their IDs, and the membership type of the image management service used by the users who have successfully linked their IDs.

[0218] ·others Although the account ID of the image management service is used as the user's identification information, an ID different from the account ID of the image management service may be used as the user's identification information and linked to the housing ID when the ID is linked.

[0219] Although the play fee applied when ID linking is successful during the second play is assumed to be 300 yen, various amounts other than the regular fee of 400 yen may be applied as the play fee. An amount lower than the regular fee, such as 300 yen, may be applied, or an amount higher than the regular fee, such as 500 yen, may be applied.

[0220] Although the reading of the two-dimensional code and the like is performed using the dedicated application 2A, which is an application for using the image providing service, it may be performed using an application other than the dedicated application 2A. For example, it may be possible to use another application that has a two-dimensional code reader function, or another application that performs Felica (registered trademark) touch authentication.

[0221] As described above, the store manager can set the play fee when ID linking is successful, etc. In addition to the play fee, other specifications related to the photo creation game may also be set.

[0222] For example, along with the play fee, whether or not to print an image on the sticker paper can be set, so that a photo creation game without printing an image on the sticker paper can be set to 300 yen.

[0223] In addition to the play fee, a setting is also made so that the user can select whether or not to print an image on the sticker paper. The user can choose to play a photo creation game without printing an image on the sticker paper for 200 yen, or a photo creation game with printing an image on the sticker paper for 300 yen. Because sticker paper is a consumable item, by being able to set the option to not print, it is possible to reduce the costs required to operate the photo sticker creation device 3.

[0224] By setting up ID linking, it may be possible to limit the number of people eligible for the discount. It may also be possible to set the number of people for any period, such as by day, week, or month. This allows the store to set the price as desired.

[0225] The set play fee amount and whether or not play is available at a discounted rate may be automatically adjusted according to certain conditions. For example, conditions such as the number of times played in the past and the amount of sales may be set. If the number of times played in a certain period reaches a set number, or if the amount of sales in a certain period reaches a set amount, the discount rate will not be applied and only play at the regular rate will be possible.

[0226] By setting up ID linking in this way, it is possible to operate in a way that if the number of plays reaches 100 as of 3:00 PM, ID linking is not enabled and no discount fee is applied. Also, if sales on the previous day are less than X million, ID linking will be enabled the next day and the fee for the second play will be 300 yen, and if sales on the previous day are less than Y million, ID linking will be enabled the next day and the fee for the second play will be 350 yen.

[0227] The user may be informed that the photo creation game can be played without ID linking.

[0228] Program example The above-described series of processes can be executed by hardware or software. When the series of processes is executed by software, the program constituting the software is installed in a computer incorporated in dedicated hardware or a general-purpose personal computer.

[0229] The program to be installed is provided by being recorded on removable media such as an optical disc (CD-ROM (Compact Disc-Read Only Memory), DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), etc.) or semiconductor memory. It may also be provided via wired or wireless transmission media such as a local area network, the Internet, or digital broadcasting. The program can be pre-installed.

[0230] The program executed by the computer may be a program that processes in chronological order according to the order described in this specification, or may be a program that processes in parallel or at the required timing, such as when called.

[0231] In this specification, a system refers to a collection of multiple components (devices, modules (components), etc.), regardless of whether all the components are contained in the same housing. Therefore, multiple devices housed in separate housings and connected via a network, and a single device with multiple modules housed in a single housing, are both systems.

[0232] The effects described in this specification are merely examples and are not limiting, and other effects may also be present.

[0233] The embodiments of the present technology are not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the present technology.

[0234] For example, this technology can be configured as cloud computing, in which a single function is shared and processed collaboratively by multiple devices via a network.

[0235] Furthermore, each step described in the above flowchart can be executed by one device, or can be shared and executed by multiple devices.

[0236] Furthermore, when one step includes multiple processes, the multiple processes included in that one step can be executed by one device or can be shared and executed by multiple devices. [Explanation of symbols]

[0237] 1 image management server, 2 mobile terminal, 3 photo sticker creation device, 21 advance operation unit, 21A touch panel monitor, 21B coin slot, 121 information processing unit, 131 image acquisition unit, 132 image management unit, 133 image DB, 134 member information DB, 135 ID linkage management unit, 211 control unit, 221 game control unit, 222 ID linkage execution unit, 223 display control unit, 224 setting management unit

Claims

1. In a photography device for providing a game including photography of a user as a subject, and a control unit that applies a fee that is lower than a normal fee as a play fee for the current game and controls the start of the game when the number of successful links, including the link with ... Filming equipment.

2. The control unit acquires the user ID transmitted from the mobile terminal in response to the user performing a predetermined operation on the mobile terminal, and executes the linking. The imaging device according to claim 1 .

3. a communication unit that receives information indicating a result of the linking, the information being transmitted from the information processing device that executes the linking based on the user ID and the housing ID; The imaging device according to claim 1 .

4. a display control unit that displays code information representing the housing ID on a display unit; The linking by the information processing device is performed based on the user ID and the housing ID transmitted to the information processing device from the mobile terminal of the user that read the code information. The imaging device according to claim 3 .

5. a reading unit that reads code information representing the user ID displayed on the mobile terminal of the user; The communication unit transmits the housing ID together with the user ID obtained by reading the code information to the information processing device, thereby performing the linking. The imaging device according to claim 3 .

6. A photography device for providing a game including photography of a user as a subject, When the link between the user ID, which is the identification information of the user, and the cabinet ID, which is the identification information assigned to the cabinet of the photographing device, is successful, and when the number of times the linking is successful is greater than a predetermined number of times, including the linking with the cabinet ID of another photographing device of a model different from that of the photographing device, a fee lower than a normal fee is applied as a play fee for the current game, and the start of the game is controlled. Control method.

7. a communication unit that communicates with a photography device that provides a game including photography of the user as a subject; and when the link between the user ID, which is identification information of the user, and the cabinet ID, which is identification information assigned to the cabinet of the photographing device, is successful, and when the number of successful links, including the link with the cabinet ID of another photographing device of a model different from that of the photographing device, is greater than a predetermined number of times, a control unit applies a fee that is lower than a normal fee as a play fee for the current game and causes the photographing device to start the game. Information processing device.

8. The information processing device communicate with a photographing device that provides a game including photographing the user as a subject; When the link between the user ID, which is the identification information of the user, and the cabinet ID, which is the identification information assigned to the cabinet of the photographing device, is successful, and when the number of times of successful linking is greater than a predetermined number of times, including the linking with the cabinet ID of another photographing device of a model different from that of the photographing device, a fee lower than a normal fee is applied as a play fee for the current game, and the photographing device is caused to start the game. Information processing methods.

9. In a photography device for providing a game including photography of a user as a subject, and a control unit that applies a fee that is lower than a normal fee as a play fee for the current game and controls the start of the game when the number of successful links, including the link with ... Filming equipment.

10. A photography device for providing a game including photography of a user as a subject, When the link between the user ID, which is the identification information of the user, and the cabinet ID, which is the identification information assigned to the cabinet of the photographing device, is successful, and when the number of times of successful linking is greater than a predetermined number of times, including the link with the cabinet ID of another photographing device in a different store from the photographing device, a fee lower than a normal fee is applied as a play fee for the current game, and the start of the game is controlled. Control method.

11. a communication unit that communicates with a photography device that provides a game including photography of the user as a subject; and when the link between the user ID, which is identification information of the user, and the cabinet ID, which is identification information assigned to the cabinet of the photographing device, is successful, and the number of times the linking has been successful is greater than a predetermined number of times, including the linking with the cabinet ID of another photographing device in a store different from that of the photographing device, the control unit applies a fee that is lower than a normal fee as a play fee for the current game and causes the photographing device to start the game. Information processing device.

12. The information processing device communicate with a photographing device that provides a game including photographing the user as a subject; When the link between the user ID, which is the identification information of the user, and the cabinet ID, which is the identification information assigned to the cabinet of the photographing device, is successful, and when the number of successful links is greater than a predetermined number of times, including the link with the cabinet ID of another photographing device in a different store from the one where the photographing device is installed, a fee lower than a normal fee is applied as a play fee for the current game, and the photographing device is caused to start the game. Information processing methods.

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