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

Abstract

To enable easy provision of games at various fees.SOLUTION: An imaging apparatus according to one aspect of the present technique is the imaging apparatus which provides a game including imaging a user himself / herself as a subject to the user. The imaging apparatus starts a game according to payment of a play fee different from a normal fee when coordination between a user ID being identification information of a user and a housing ID being identification information allocated to a housing of the imaging apparatus succeeds, and starts a game according to the payment of the normal fee when the coordination fails. The present technique can be applied to a photograph seal creation device which provides a series of games of printing a photographed image on a seal sheet.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present technology particularly relates to a photographing apparatus, a control method, an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a program that enable games to be easily provided at various charges.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a photo sticker creating apparatus is known. The photo sticker creating apparatus photographs a user, allows the user to edit the photographed image, and prints the edited image on sticker paper for providing. The photo sticker creating apparatus is installed in a play facility or the like.

[0003] The flow of one game provided by the photo sticker creating apparatus is usually to photograph a user in the photographing space as a subject, then move the user to the editing space, edit the image according to the operations performed in the editing space, and print the edited image on sticker paper.

[0004] Patent Document 1 discloses a technique of acquiring user information including information such as the gender of a user and changing the settings of a photo printing apparatus based on the user information.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] When the charging amount is less than the standard, although it may lead to an increase in repeaters, there may also be a case where, depending on the store where the apparatus is installed, the number of users playing at an amount not desired by the store side increases too much.

[0007] The present technology has been made in view of such a situation, and enables games to be easily provided at various fees.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0008] In a photographing apparatus according to one aspect of the present technology, in a photographing apparatus that provides a game including photographing with the user himself / herself as a subject to the user, when the cooperation between the user ID which is the identification information of the user and the housing ID which is the identification information assigned to the housing of the photographing apparatus is successful, the game is started in response to payment of a play fee different from the normal fee, and when the cooperation fails, the game is started in response to payment of the normal fee. The control unit is provided.

[0009] An information processing apparatus according to another aspect of the present technology, when the cooperation between the user ID which is the identification information of the user and the housing ID which is the identification information assigned to the housing of the photographing apparatus that provides a game including photographing with the user himself / herself as a subject to the user is successful, the photographing apparatus is caused to start the game in response to payment of a play fee different from the normal fee, and when the cooperation fails, the photographing apparatus is caused to start the game in response to payment of the normal fee. The control unit is provided.

[0010] In one aspect of the present technology, when the cooperation between the user ID which is the identification information of the user and the housing ID which is the identification information assigned to the housing of the photographing apparatus is successful, the game is started in response to payment of a play fee different from the normal fee, and when the cooperation fails, the game is started in response to payment of the normal fee.

[0011] In another aspect of the present technology, when the association between the user ID, which is the user's identification information, and the housing ID, which is the identification information assigned to the housing of the imaging device that provides the user with a game including imaging of the user himself / herself as a subject, is successful, the game is started by the imaging device in response to the payment of a play fee different from the normal fee. When the association fails, the game is started by the imaging device in response to the payment of the normal fee.

Advantages of the Invention

[0012] According to the present technology, games can be easily provided at various fees.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0013]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

Figure 17

Figure 18

Figure 19

Figure 20

Figure 21

Figure 22

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. Example 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 the image management server 1 via the Internet 11. The image management server 1 provides an image providing service to users who have accessed by operating a portable terminal 2 such as a smartphone.

[0017] The image providing service is a membership-based service that enables users to view images on the portable terminal 2 or download images to the portable terminal 2. Image editing and the like may also be enabled using the image providing service. The images provided by the image providing service to the users of the portable terminal 2 are images that have been uploaded from the photo sticker creating device 3 and are managed by the image management server 1 as will be described later.

[0018] After playing the photo creation game on the photo sticker creating device 3, the user of the portable terminal 2 operates the portable terminal 2 to use the image providing service and view their own images taken with friends and the like. A dedicated application 2A, which is an application for using the image providing service, is installed on the portable terminal 2.

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

[0020] The users of the photo sticker creating device 3 are mainly centered around high school girls and young women. In the photo sticker creating device 3, a plurality of users, mainly two or three people per group, can enjoy the game. Of course, in the photo sticker creating device 3, a single user can also enjoy the game.

[0021] In the photo creation game of the photo sticker creation device 3, the user takes a photo with themselves as the subject. The user edits the captured image obtained by the photo shoot to synthesize a composite image such as handwritten characters or a stamp image, and edits the captured image into a richly colored image. The user receives the sticker paper printed with the edited captured image and ends a series of games.

[0022] As described above, the photo sticker creation device 3 has a function as a photographing device that photographs the user as the subject. The image created by the user during the play of the photo creation game is uploaded from the photo sticker creation device 3 to the image management server 1.

[0023] The photo sticker creation device 3 is provided with a computer that controls the overall operation of the photo sticker creation device 3, a camera that photographs the user, an editing monitor used by the user to edit the captured image obtained by photographing with the camera, a printer that prints an image on a printing medium such as sticker paper, and the like. Details of the configuration of the photo sticker creation device 3 are disclosed in, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2018-64220.

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

[0025] For example, at the time of ID linking, information such as the ID of the user and the ID of the photo sticker creation device 3 that the user intends to use is transmitted from the mobile terminal 2 carried by the user to the image management server 1.

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

[0027] When authentication using the user's ID is successful, in the image management server 1, the user's ID is associated with the ID of the photo sticker creation device 3 that the user intends to use. As a result, as shown by the two-way white arrows in FIG. 1, the ID linkage is successfully established. The ID linkage is performed by associating and managing the two IDs.

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

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

[0030] Note that a play fee lower than the normal fee is set when the ID linkage between a certain user and the photo sticker creation device 3 of a certain housing is successful twice, that is, when the same user starts the second photo creation game using the photo sticker creation device 3 of the same housing, as shown in FIG. 2.

[0031] In the example of FIG. 2, it shows how user A uses the photo creation game of housing A, which is a photo sticker creation device 3 of a certain housing, twice. As shown in the upper part of FIG. 2, when the ID linkage is successful during the first play, a normal fee of, for example, 400 yen is set as the play fee. User A can play the photo creation game of housing A by paying the normal fee of 400 yen.

[0032] If the ID linkage is successful during the first play, the user is informed that they can play at a discounted price during the next play. When the first photo creation game ends and the user plays the second photo creation game using housing A, the user performs the same operations as during the first play to conduct ID linkage during the second play.

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

[0034] By conducting ID linkage, the user can play the photo creation game at a play fee lower than the normal price.

[0035] In addition, the photo sticker creation device 3 can identify who the user is who intends to start the photo creation game and can change the play fee according to the user's usage status and the like.

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

[0037] As shown in FIG. 3, a pre-operation unit 21 is provided on the side surface of the photo sticker creation device 3 having a box-shaped housing. The pre-operation unit 21 is a device used for pre-shooting operations such as selecting the number of users playing together and selecting a shooting course. Above the pre-operation unit 21, a touch panel monitor 21A is provided. Below the touch panel monitor 21A, a coin insertion slot 21B for paying the play fee is provided.

[0038] Screens for various selections are displayed on the touch panel monitor 21A. After the user makes various selections according to the display on the touch panel monitor 21A, the user enters the shooting space from the entrance G and performs shooting. In the front of the shooting space, a box-shaped shooting unit 31 incorporating a camera 31A is provided.

[0039] An editing unit 41 is provided on the left side of the pre-operation unit 21. The editing unit 41 is a device used for editing the captured image obtained by shooting with the camera 31A. The user who has performed shooting in the shooting space will move to the editing space in front of the editing unit 41 to perform editing of the captured image. An editing monitor 41A is provided on the inclined surface formed above the editing unit 41. The screen used for editing the captured image is displayed on the editing monitor 41A.

[0040] The above-described ID linkage is performed according to the display on the touch panel monitor 21A provided on the pre-operation unit 21. After the ID linkage, the screens used for various selections are displayed on the touch panel monitor 21A.

[0041] · ID linkage at the start of the first play Figs. 4 to 6 are diagrams showing an example of the screen transition of the touch panel monitor 21A at the start of the first play.

[0042] When the touch panel monitor 21A is touched, the linkage selection screen shown on the left side of Fig. 4 is displayed. Above the linkage selection screen, a message is displayed notifying that the second play will cost 300 yen at a discounted price by performing ID linkage. Below the message, a button 51 to be operated when performing ID linkage and a button 52 to be operated when not performing ID linkage are displayed.

[0043] Below the linkage selection screen, a message is displayed notifying that the play at the discounted price is only valid at the said store and that the play at the discounted price is only valid on the same day (until closing).

[0044] When the button 52 is pressed and not performing ID linkage is selected, as shown at the tip of the arrow A1, the coin insertion screen is displayed. On the coin insertion screen displayed when not performing ID linkage is selected, a message prompting payment of the normal price of 400 yen is displayed. For example, when coins worth 400 yen are inserted into the coin insertion slot 21B and the play fee is paid, the photo creation game is started.

[0045] On the other hand, when button 51 is pressed on the cooperation selection screen and ID cooperation is selected, a cooperation screen is displayed as shown at the tip of arrow A2. Above the cooperation screen, a message guiding to read a two-dimensional code using the dedicated app 2A is displayed. Below the message, a two-dimensional code 53 is displayed. In the example of FIG. 4, even when a photo creation game is played by a plurality of people together, the number of users who can perform ID cooperation is set to only one person.

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

[0047] As shown in the speech balloon of FIG. 5, the two-dimensional code 53 stores information on the housing ID, store ID, and cooperation ID. The two-dimensional code 53 is generated by the photo sticker creation device 3 and is displayed on the cooperation screen.

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

[0049] The store ID is an ID assigned to the store. The store ID of the store is set for each housing installed in the store. There may be a plurality of housings installed in one store. The plurality of housings may be of the same model or may be of different models. The same photo creation game is provided by the housings of the same model.

[0050] The linking ID is an ID assigned for ID linking. Different IDs are assigned for each ID linking. For example, when ID linking is selected, communication is performed between the housing and the image management server 1, and the linking ID is issued from the image management server 1 to the housing.

[0051] When the two-dimensional code 53 is read, as shown by the white arrow in Fig. 5, the information stored in the two-dimensional code 53 is transmitted to the image management server 1.

[0052] To the image management server 1, the account ID of the user managed by the dedicated app 2A is transmitted together with the information of the housing ID, store ID, and linking ID. The account ID is an ID assigned by the image management server 1 when creating an account for using the image providing service. Other identification information that can uniquely identify the user, such as an email address, SNS ID, or an ID 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 the member information of the image management service.

[0054] In the image management server 1, the member information of each user who uses the image management service is managed. The member information includes information such as an account ID, member attribute (paid member / free member), nickname, and play history. The play history includes information such as the model of the photo sticker creation device 3 the user played on, the housing ID of the housing, and the store ID of the store.

[0055] If the same ID as the account ID transmitted from the mobile terminal 2 is registered as the member information of the image management service, the user authentication is successful. When the user authentication is successful, the information such as the housing ID transmitted from the mobile terminal 2 is managed in association with the account ID.

[0056] As a result, the ID linking that coordinates the user who attempts to start the photo creation game and the housing of the photo sticker creation device 3 that the user attempts to use is in a state where it has succeeded. When the ID linking is performed, the result of the ID linking is transmitted from the image management server 1 to the photo sticker creation device 3.

[0057] When the ID linking is successful, as shown at the tip of arrow A3 in FIG. 6, a message notifying that the ID linking has been successful is displayed. The characters of the nickname of "Aoharu" included in the message notifying that the ID linking has been successful are displayed based on the information notified from the image management server 1. When the ID linking is successful, member information of the user for whom the ID linking has been successful is transmitted from the image management server 1.

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

[0059] After such a message is displayed, as shown at the tip of arrow A4, a coin insertion screen is displayed. A message prompting payment of the normal fee of 400 yen is displayed on the coin insertion screen. As described above, even when the ID linking is successful, the discounted fee of 300 yen can be used for the photo creation game only at the second play. For example, when coins worth 400 yen are inserted into the coin insertion slot 21B, the photo creation game starts.

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

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

[0062] On the other hand, when the ID linkage fails, as shown at the tip of arrow A5 in FIG. 6, a message notifying that the ID 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. When the ID linkage fails, a button for retrying the ID linkage may be displayed.

[0063] When the 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. A message prompting payment of the normal fee of 400 yen is displayed on the coin insertion screen. When coins worth 400 yen are inserted into the coin insertion slot 21B, the photo creation game starts.

[0064] ·ID Linkage at the Start of the Second Play FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of screen transition of 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. Duplicate explanations will be omitted as appropriate.

[0066] When the button 51 is pressed on the linkage selection screen (FIG. 4) and it is selected to perform ID linkage, a linkage screen including the two-dimensional code 53 is displayed. The user operates the mobile terminal 2 to start the dedicated application 2A and reads the two-dimensional code 53 by pointing the camera of the mobile terminal 2 at the touch panel monitor 21A.

[0067] When the ID linkage is successful, as shown at the tip of arrow A11 in Fig. 8, a message notifying the success of the ID linkage 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. A message prompting payment of the discounted fee of 300 yen is displayed on the coin insertion screen. 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 the failure of the linkage 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 the option of not performing ID linkage is selected, a coin insertion screen is displayed as shown at the tip of arrow A6. A message prompting payment of the normal fee of 400 yen is displayed on the coin insertion screen. 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 the payment of the discounted fee of 300 yen, and when the ID linkage fails, the photo creation game starts in response to the payment of the normal fee of 400 yen.

[0072] Referring to the flowchart in 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 causes the touch panel monitor 21A to display a cooperation selection screen (FIG. 4).

[0074] When it is selected to perform ID cooperation, in step S2, the photo sticker creating device 3 requests the image management server 1 to issue a cooperation 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 cooperation ID in response to the request from the photo sticker creating device 3.

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

[0079] In step S5, the photo sticker creating device 3 causes the touch panel monitor 21A to display a cooperation screen including the two-dimensional code 53.

[0080] When the user who has launched 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 by the reader function.

[0081] In step S12, the dedicated application 2A of the mobile terminal 2 transmits the account ID to the image management server 1 together with the information of the read two-dimensional code 53. 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 a housing ID, a store ID, a linking ID, and an account ID.

[0083] In step S24, when the image management server 1 successfully authenticates the user because the same ID as the received account ID is registered as member information, it manages by associating the housing ID with the account ID. Information such as the store ID and the linking ID is also managed in association with the account ID together with the housing ID.

[0084] In step S25, the image management server 1 transmits information representing the result of ID linking to the photo sticker creation device 3. When the ID linking is successful, member information including a nickname and an account ID, information indicating which play this play using the same housing is, etc. are transmitted to the photo sticker creation device 3 together with the information representing the result of ID linking. Information representing the play fee according to the result of ID linking is also transmitted to the photo sticker creation device 3 as appropriate.

[0085] In step S6, the photo sticker creation device 3 receives the information representing the result of ID linking transmitted from the image management server 1. Instead of the information representing the result of ID linking being transmitted from the image management server 1, polling by the photo sticker creation device 3 may be repeatedly performed so that the result of ID linking is received (acquired) from the image management server 1 by polling.

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

[0087] The play fee that the user pays at the start of the first play is 400 yen whether the ID linking is successful or failed. On the other hand, the play fee that the user pays at the start of the second play is 300 yen when the ID linking is successful and 400 yen when the ID linking fails.

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

[0089] The issuance of the linkage ID may be performed by the photo sticker creation device 3 instead of by the image management server 1. In this case, for example, the linkage 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 linkage.

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

[0091] As shown in FIG. 10, management information is added to the image uploaded from the photo sticker creation device 3. The management information is information generated in the photo sticker creation device 3 for managing the uploaded image and transmitted to the image management server 1. In the image management server 1, the uploaded image is managed in association with each piece of information included in the management information.

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

[0093] The seal ID is an ID issued by the photo sticker creation device 3 according to a predetermined rule for each game. Since it is an ID issued every 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 representing an image selected by the user during the photo creation game as an image to be saved on the my page screen.

[0095] For example, at a predetermined timing such as when the editing of the captured image is completed, one edited image is selected using the screen displayed on the editing monitor 41A. The my page screen is a user-exclusive screen assigned to each user who has completed member registration, and is used for viewing images managed by the image management server 1 and the like.

[0096] The email address is the email address of the user input during the photo creation game.

[0097] The email address is used by the image management server 1, for example, to notify the user of the URL assigned as the storage destination of the image by email (electronic mail). When 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 the editing of the captured image is completed, the email address is input using the screen displayed on the editing monitor 41A.

[0099] Regarding the email address of the user who has performed ID linking, it may be specified in the photo seal creating device 3 based on the member information sent from the image management server 1 when the ID linking is successful. In this case, the input of the email address of the user who has performed ID linking is not performed during the game. As the email address to be included in the management information, the email address included in the member information sent from the image management server 1 when the ID linking is successful is used.

[0100] <Configuration of Each Device> ·Configuration of the Image Management Server 1 FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the image management server 1.

[0101] As shown in FIG. 11, the image management server 1 is composed of a computer. The image management server 1 may be composed of a plurality of computers. When the image management server 1 is composed of a plurality of computers, various processes for providing an image providing service are realized by the cooperation of each computer.

[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 composed of a keyboard, a mouse, etc. The output unit 107 is composed of a display, etc.

[0105] The storage unit 108 is composed of a hard disk, a non-volatile memory, etc. The storage unit 108 stores various types of information used for providing an image providing service, such as programs executed by the CPU 101 and images uploaded from the photo sticker creating 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 creating device 3 and receives images uploaded from the photo sticker creating device 3. Also, the communication unit 109 communicates with the mobile terminal 2 and transmits various types of information such as information used for screen display and images selected for download to the mobile terminal 2.

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

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

[0109] As shown in FIG. 12, an information processing unit 121 is implemented in the image management server 1. The image management server 1 is an information processing apparatus 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 link management unit 135. At least a part of the functional units shown in FIG. 12 is realized by a predetermined program being executed by the CPU 101.

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

[0112] The image management unit 132 associates the image supplied from the image acquisition unit 131 with management information and stores and manages it in the image DB 133. The image management unit 132 controls the communication unit 109 and transmits the image of a user who uses the image providing service to the mobile terminal 2.

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

[0114] The member information DB 134 stores the member information of users who use the image providing service. The member information stored in the member information DB 134 is referred to by the image management unit 132 at the time of image provision and is also referred to by the ID link management unit 135 at the time of ID linking.

[0115] The ID linkage management unit 135 controls the communication unit 109 to communicate with the mobile terminal 2 and the photo sticker creation device 3 and manage the ID linkage. Each process of the image management server 1 described with reference to FIG. 9 is a process performed by the ID linkage management unit 135. When the ID linkage is successful, the ID linkage 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 the payment of 300 yen for the discounted fee, and when the ID linkage fails, causes the photo sticker creation device 3 to start a photo creation game in response to the payment of 400 yen for the normal fee.

[0116] · Configuration of the photo sticker creation device 3 FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the photo sticker creation device 3. Among the configurations shown in FIG. 13, the same configurations as those described above are denoted by the same reference numerals. Redundant descriptions will be omitted as appropriate.

[0117] As shown in FIG. 13, the photo sticker creation 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 by the CPU and controls the overall operation of the photo sticker creation device 3 according to the progress of the game. In the control unit 211, a game control unit 221, an ID linkage execution unit 222, a display control unit 223, and a setting management unit 224 are realized by executing a predetermined program.

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

[0120] The pre-selection process is a process that allows the user to make various selections such as the selection of a photographing course before the photographing 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 shooting 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 with the edited images printed thereon is provided to the user from a take-out port provided at a predetermined position of the housing. The printing process also includes a process of uploading the user's images such as the edited images created by the photo creation game to the image management server 1.

[0124] The ID linking execution unit 222 controls the communication unit 212 to communicate with the image management server 1 and execute ID linking. Among the processes of the photo sticker creation device 3 described with reference to FIG. 9, each of the processes of steps S2, S3, S4, and S6 is a process performed by the ID linking 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. Also, the display control unit 223 causes various screens operated by the user during the editing process to be displayed on the editing monitor 41A.

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

[0127] The setting management unit 224 manages setting information which is information representing the content of the ID linking setting. For example, the ID linking setting is performed by the store administrator using the setting screen displayed on the editing monitor 41A when the photo sticker creation device 3 is operated in the maintenance mode.

[0128] As the ID link setting, for example, the amount of the discounted price is set. In the case of the above example, 300 yen, which is 100 yen cheaper than the normal price, is set as the amount of the discounted price.

[0129] Also, as the ID link setting, the conditions for the discounted price are set. Conditions such as the period during which the discounted price is valid and the number of plays until the discounted price becomes valid are set. In the case of the above example, the time until closing on the same day as the day of the first play is the period during which the discounted price is valid. Also, starting from the second play is the number of plays until the discounted price becomes valid.

[0130] In addition to the ID link setting, various settings such as the settings related to the progress of the photo creation game such as the volume of the BGM and the setting of the operating time zone of the photo sticker creating device 3 are performed by the administrator of the photo sticker creating device 3 using the setting screen.

[0131] The pre-operation unit 21 causes the touch panel monitor 21A to display a predetermined screen and performs pre-selection processing for the user before starting shooting. Information representing the selection content of the user in the pre-selection processing is supplied to the control unit 211.

[0132] The shooting unit 31 drives the camera 31A and shoots the user in the shooting space as the subject. For example, by performing shooting a plurality of times, a plurality of shot images are acquired. The shot images acquired by the shooting unit 31 are supplied to the control unit 211.

[0133] The editing unit 41 performs editing processing for the user in the editing space. The editing processing includes image processing for editing the shot images. The editing of the shot images is performed using the editing screen displayed on the editing monitor 41A. After finishing the editing of the shot images, the editing unit 41 generates print data by arranging the edited images in a predetermined layout and outputs it 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 captured image on the sticker paper based on the print data.

[0136] ·Configuration of the mobile terminal 2 FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the mobile terminal 2.

[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 composed of 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] In the control unit 301, an application execution unit 301A is realized. When the dedicated application 2A is executed by the application execution unit 301A, each process described with reference to FIG. 9 is realized.

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

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

[0142] The display 304 is composed of 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 composed of various buttons and a touch panel provided overlaid on the display 304. The operation unit 305 outputs a signal representing the content of the user's operation to the control unit 301.

[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 target conditions> · Examples of the housing to be discounted When the second play is performed using the same housing as the one used for the first play, a discounted fee is set. However, a housing different from the one used for the first play may be made the discount target.

[0146] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example in the case where all the housings installed in the same store are discount targets.

[0147] In the example of FIG. 15, in store A, three photo sticker creating devices 3 of housings #1 to #3 are installed, and in store B, one photo sticker creating device 3 of housing #11 is installed. Housings #1 and #2 installed in store A and housing #11 installed in store B are housings of model A, and housing #3 installed in store A is a housing 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, assume that a certain user performs the first play using housing #1 and has successfully linked the IDs. In this case, as shown at the tips of arrows A31 to A33, housings #1 to #3 installed in the same store A as housing #1 are discount targets. Also, as shown at the tip of arrow A34, housing #11 installed in store B is not a discount target.

[0150] The user can play for the second time at a discounted price by using enclosures #2 and #3 installed in store A.

[0151] When ID linking, in the image management server 1, the enclosure ID and the store ID are managed in association with the account ID. In the case of the example described above, in response to the successful ID linking at the start of the first play, the store ID "XA" and the enclosure ID "10001" are managed in association with the account ID.

[0152] Also, when performing ID linking at the start of the second play, for example, if information including the store ID "XA" and the enclosure ID "20005" is transmitted from the mobile terminal 2 together with the account ID, in the image management server 1, it is determined that the ID linking has been successful, and this is notified to the enclosure #3. In the enclosure #3, in response to the notification from the image management server 1, 300 yen of the discounted price is set as the play fee.

[0153] The enclosure #3 (the control unit 211 of the enclosure #3) will provide the second play at a discounted price to the user who has successfully performed ID linking using the enclosure #1 installed in the same store as the enclosure #3.

[0154] In this way, it is determined based on the store ID whether the enclosure is installed in the same store as the enclosure where the first play was performed, and all enclosures installed in the same store are set as discount targets.

[0155] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of the case where enclosures of the same model are discount targets.

[0156] For example, assume that a certain user plays for the first time using the enclosure #1 and has successfully performed ID linking. In this case, as shown at the tips of the arrows A41, A42, and A44, the enclosures #1 and #2 installed in store A, which are of the same model A as the enclosure #1, and the enclosure #11 installed in store B are discount targets. Also, as shown at the tip of the arrow A43, the enclosure #3, which is of model B, is not a discount target.

[0157] The models of the respective cabinets are identified by, for example, the first digit of the cabinet ID. In the case of the above example, the cabinet IDs of cabinets #1, #2, and #11, namely "10001", "10002", and "10003" where the first digit is "1", are cabinet IDs representing model A. Also, the cabinet ID of cabinet #3, namely "20005" where the first digit is "2", is a cabinet ID representing model B. Model IDs serving as identification information for the models may be set for the respective cabinets.

[0158] When information including the cabinet ID of "10003" where the first digit is "1" is transmitted from the mobile terminal 2 together with the account ID during ID linking at the start of the second play, in the image management server 1, it is determined that the ID linking has been successful, and this is notified to cabinet #11. In cabinet #11, in response to the notification from the image management server 1, 300 yen of the discounted fee is set as the play fee.

[0159] Cabinet #11 (control unit 211 of cabinet #11) will provide the second play to the user who successfully performed ID linking using cabinet #1 of the same model as cabinet #11 at a discounted fee.

[0160] In this way, it is determined based on the cabinet ID whether the cabinet is of the same model as the cabinet used for the first play, and all cabinets of the same model are set as discount targets.

[0161] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example in the case where cabinets installed in the same store and of the same model are discount targets.

[0162] For example, assume that a certain user uses cabinet #1 for the first play and has successfully performed ID linking. In this case, as shown at the tips of arrows A51 and A52, cabinets #1 and #2, which are installed in the same store as cabinet #1 and of the same model A as cabinet #1, are discount targets. Also, as shown at the tips of arrows A53 and A54, cabinet #3, which is a cabinet of model B, and cabinet #11 installed in store B are not discount targets.

[0163] It is installed in the same store as the housing where the first play was conducted, and whether it is the same model of housing is determined based on the store ID and housing ID described above.

[0164] In this way, various conditions can be set as conditions for the housing subject to discount. The store manager can freely set the stores in the series subject to discount, the models subject to discount, and so on.

[0165] · Examples of periods subject to discount It is assumed that a discounted fee is set when the second play is conducted by the closing time of the same day (the day of the first play), but other periods may be set as the discount target. The period subject to discount may be set in time units such as one hour, or may be set in units of days. An arbitrary period such as until the store closes on the same day, until 16:00 on the same day, or until one week later is set.

[0166] In this way, when a predetermined period is set as the period during which play at the discounted fee is valid, after the elapse of the predetermined period, the normal fee is set as the play fee even if the ID linkage is successful.

[0167] · Examples of the number of plays subject to discount It is assumed that a discounted fee is set when the second play is conducted, but when the ID linkage is successful, the discounted fee may be set from the first play, or the discounted fee may be set from the third and subsequent plays.

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

[0169] Thus, when a predetermined number of times is set as the number of times play at the discounted price is valid, after the play at the discounted price has been carried out the predetermined number of times, even if the ID linkage is successful, the normal price is set as the play price. When the number of play times subject to the discounted price is set to 1, as described above, when the second play is made at the discounted price of 300 yen, the normal price of 400 yen is set as the play price for the third play.

[0170] By enabling the setting of conditions such as the period and number of times that play at the discounted price is valid, it becomes possible to prevent situations where too much play at the discounted price occurs and the store's sales decline.

[0171] <Example of setting> FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of the ID linkage setting.

[0172] The ID linkage setting, such as the conditions under which play at the discounted price becomes valid, is performed by the store manager. The store manager may start each cabinet in maintenance mode for setting, or as shown in FIG. 18, setting may be performed via a network using a terminal such as a PC capable of communicating with each cabinet.

[0173] When multiple cabinets are installed in one store and connected via a network as shown in FIG. 18, setting information representing the content of the ID linkage setting for each cabinet may be transmitted and received between the cabinets. When the setting information is transmitted and received at a predetermined timing such as during restart, a confirmation screen for confirming to the manager whether to use the same content of the setting is displayed based on the setting information.

[0174] The cabinets may communicate with each other in real time, synchronize the settings, and set the play price. By synchronizing the setting contents of multiple cabinets, it becomes possible to save the labor of setting by the manager and prevent setting mistakes on the store side.

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

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

[0177] In this way, the setting management unit 224 of the photo sticker creating device 3 performs the ID link 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 creating device 3.

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

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

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

[0181] Thus, even when multiple users succeed in ID linking, it is possible to make only a predetermined user eligible for a discount. As a result, it becomes possible to limit the number of users eligible for the discount.

[0182] Of course, all users who succeed in ID linking may be made eligible for the discount, or only up to a predetermined number of users may be made eligible for the discount.

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

[0184] The ID linking of the second user is performed at a predetermined timing, such as the timing before the start of shooting after the payment of the play fee, the timing before the start of editing after the end of shooting, or the timing after editing. As described above, the users playing the photo creation game are identified by ID linking. Instead of entering the email address after editing, ID linking may be performed. The second user may perform ID linking immediately after the first user has performed ID linking and before the payment of the play fee.

[0185] When the ID linking of the second user is successful, the information transmitted from the image management server 1 to the photo sticker creation device 3 includes a flag indicating that the user who has succeeded in the ID linking is not a user eligible for the discount.

[0186] <Other examples> ·Example of performing ID linking on the photo sticker creation device 3 side The process of associating and managing the housing ID and the account ID may be performed in the photo sticker creation device 3.

[0187] In this case, information such as the housing ID is transmitted from the mobile terminal 2 that has read the two-dimensional code displayed on the cooperation screen of the photo sticker creation device 3 according to the user's operation to the image management server 1, and is acquired by the photo sticker creation device 3 via the image management server 1. In the photo sticker creation device 3, the housing ID and the account ID transmitted from the mobile terminal 2 via the image management server 1 are associated and managed.

[0188] Referring to the flowchart of FIG. 21, a series of processes when ID cooperation is performed on the photo sticker creation device 3 side will be described.

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

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

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

[0192] In step S57, the photo sticker creation device 3 associates and manages the housing ID and the account ID, thereby realizing ID cooperation.

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

[0194] In this way, it is also possible to perform ID linking on the side of the photo sticker creating device 3. Also in this case, it is possible to issue the linking ID by the photo sticker creating device 3.

[0195] ·Example of reading a two-dimensional code on the side of the photo sticker creating device 3 Instead of the mobile terminal 2 reading 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 preliminary 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] With reference to the flowchart of FIG. 22, a series of processes in the case of reading a two-dimensional code on the side of the photo sticker creating device 3 will be described.

[0197] At the start of ID linking, the user activates the dedicated application 2A and performs an operation for ID linking. When instructed to perform ID linking, in step S91, the dedicated application 2A of the mobile terminal 2 requests the image management server 1 to issue a linking ID.

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

[0199] In step S102, the image management server 1 issues a linking ID in response to the 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 linking ID.

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

[0202] In step S94, the dedicated app 2A causes the two-dimensional code to be displayed on the display 304. The user turns the display 304 of the mobile terminal 2 toward the reading unit of the photo sticker creating device 3 to cause 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, the store ID, and the information of the read two-dimensional code to the image management server 1.

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

[0206] In step S104, when the image management server 1 successfully authenticates the user because the same ID as the received account ID is registered as member information, the image management server 1 associates and manages the housing ID and the account ID. Information such as the store ID and the cooperation ID is also associated and managed with the account ID together with the housing ID.

[0207] In step S105, the image management server 1 transmits information indicating the result of the ID cooperation to the photo sticker creating device 3. When the ID cooperation is successful, information indicating the result of the ID cooperation, member information including the nickname and the account ID, information indicating which play this play using the same housing is, etc. are transmitted to the photo sticker creating device 3.

[0208] In step S83, the photo sticker creating device 3 receives the information indicating the result of the ID cooperation 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 corresponding to the amount according to the result of ID linking are inserted into the coin insertion slot 21B, the photo creation game is started.

[0210] In this way, it is also possible to perform the reading of the two-dimensional code on the side of the photo sticker creating device 3.

[0211] · Example of discounted price The discount rate when ID linking is successful may vary according to the status of the housing and the status of the user, and the amount of the play fee may be changed.

[0212] For models or enclosures with poor operating conditions, such as models with an operating rate lower than the threshold or enclosures with an operating rate lower than the threshold, a play fee is set at an amount lower than the fee applied to models or enclosures with good operating conditions. The operating status is determined based on at least one of, for example, the operating rate, operating time, number of plays, and play time.

[0213] For example, when the discounted play fee for model A is 300 yen, 200 yen is set as the discounted play fee for model B, which has a worse operating status than model A. A lower play fee may be applied to enclosures with malfunctions.

[0214] This makes it possible to improve the number of plays of models or enclosures with poor operating conditions.

[0215] The amount of the discounted play fee may vary according to the number of users who have successfully linked their IDs. For example, when two users have successfully linked their IDs, a play fee at a lower amount than when one user has successfully linked their ID is applied. By increasing the number of users eligible for the discount, it is possible to promote the use of the photo sticker creating device 3.

[0216] The discounted play fee amount may vary according to the membership type of the user who has successfully linked their IDs. As described above, there are two membership types for members of the image management service: paid members and free members. For example, if the membership type of the user who has successfully linked their IDs is a paid member, a lower play fee amount will be applied compared to when the membership type of the user who has successfully linked their IDs is a free member. This makes it possible to encourage paid membership registration.

[0217] In this way, the content of the settings for the housing, 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 can be combined, and the play fee may be set based on at least any one of these.

[0218] · Others Although the account ID of the image management service is used as the identification information of the user, an ID different from the account ID of the image management service may be used as the identification information of the user and linked to the housing ID at the time of ID linking.

[0219] Although it is assumed that the play fee applied when the ID linking is successful at the second play is 300 yen, various amounts different from the normal fee of 400 yen may be applied as the play fee. An amount such as 300 yen, which is lower than the normal fee, may be applied, or an amount such as 500 yen, which is higher than the normal fee, may be applied.

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

[0221] As described above, the store manager can set the play fee and other specifications related to the photo creation game when the ID linkage is successful. Along with the play fee, other specifications related to the photo creation game may also be settable.

[0222] For example, along with the play fee, the presence or absence of printing an image on the sticker paper is set. It becomes possible to set such that a photo creation game without printing an image on the sticker paper can be played for 300 yen.

[0223] Also, along with the play fee, a setting is made such that the user can select the presence or absence of printing an image on the sticker paper by themselves. The user can choose to play a photo creation game without printing an image on the sticker paper for 200 yen, or play a photo creation game with printing an image on the sticker paper for 300 yen, etc. Since the sticker paper is a consumable, by making it possible to set no printing, it becomes possible to reduce the costs required for the operation of the photo sticker creation device 3.

[0224] By setting the ID linkage, it may be possible to limit the number of people eligible for discounts. It may also be possible to set the number of people for any period such as per day, per week, per month, etc. This enables the store side to set the desired fees.

[0225] The set amount of the play fee and the presence or absence of playing at the discounted fee may automatically vary according to conditions. For example, conditions such as the past number of plays and the sales amount are prepared. If the number of plays in a certain period has reached the set number, or if the sales amount in a certain period has reached the set amount, the discounted fee is not applied and only playing at the normal fee is possible.

[0226] With such ID linkage settings, operations such as not enabling ID linkage and not applying a discounted fee if the number of plays has reached 100 at 15:00 can be carried out. Also, if the sales of the previous day are X million or less, ID linkage will be enabled the next day and the second play fee will be 300 yen; if the sales of the previous day are Y million or less, ID linkage will be enabled the next day and the second play fee will be 350 yen, and so on, making such operations possible.

[0227] Even without performing ID linkage, it may be possible to present to the user that they can play the photo creation game.

[0228] · Example of a program The above series of processes can be executed by hardware or by software. When the series of processes is executed by software, the program constituting the software is installed in a computer in which it is incorporated into dedicated hardware, or in a general-purpose personal computer or the like.

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

[0230] The program executed by the computer may be a program in which processing is performed in time series in accordance with the order described in this specification, or a program in which processing is performed in parallel or at a necessary timing such as when a call is made.

[0231] In this specification, a system means a collection of a plurality of components (devices, modules (parts), etc.), regardless of whether all the components are in the same housing. Therefore, a plurality of devices housed in separate housings and connected via a network, and a single device in which a plurality of modules are housed in one housing are both systems.

[0232] The effects described in this specification are merely illustrative and not limiting, and there may be other effects.

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

[0234] For example, the present technology can adopt a cloud computing configuration in which one function is shared and jointly processed by a plurality of devices via a network.

[0235] In addition, each step described in the above flowchart can be executed by one device or can be shared and executed by a plurality of devices.

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

Description of Reference Numerals

[0237] 1 Image management server, 2 Mobile terminal, 3 Photo sticker creating device, 21 Pre-operation unit, 21A Touch panel monitor, 21B Coin insertion slot, 121 Information processing unit, 131 Image acquisition unit, 132 Image management unit, 133 Image DB, 134 Member information DB, 135 ID link management unit, 211 Control unit, 221 Game control unit, 222 ID link execution unit, 223 Display control unit, 224 Setting management unit

Claims

1. In a photographing apparatus that provides a game including photographing with a user as a subject to the user, when the cooperation between the user ID, which is the identification information of the user, and the housing ID, which is the identification information assigned to the housing of the photographing apparatus, is successful, and when the number of successful cooperations within a predetermined period set as a condition is greater than a predetermined plurality of times, the start of the game is controlled by applying a fee lower than the normal fee as the play fee for the current game, and when the cooperation fails, the start of the game is controlled by applying the normal fee, and a control unit is provided. Photographing apparatus.

2. When the cooperation using each user ID of a plurality of users who use the game together is successful, the control unit applies a fee lower than the normal fee as the play fee to a predetermined user among the plurality of users. The photographing apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The photographing apparatus further includes a communication unit that receives information representing the result of the cooperation, which is transmitted from an information processing apparatus that executes the cooperation based on the user ID and the housing ID. The photographing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The control unit acquires the user ID transmitted from the mobile terminal in response to a predetermined operation performed by the user on the mobile terminal, and executes the cooperation. The photographing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2.

5. The control unit accepts an operation for cooperation using the user ID of another user at a timing different from the timing when the cooperation using the user ID of a predetermined user among the plurality of users who use the game together is performed. The photographing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The photographing apparatus further includes a display control unit that causes a display unit to display code information representing the housing ID, and the cooperation by the information processing apparatus is performed based on the user ID and the housing ID transmitted from the mobile terminal of the user who read the code information to the information processing apparatus. The photographing apparatus according to claim 3.

7. The photographing apparatus further includes a reading unit that reads code information representing the user ID, which is displayed on the mobile terminal of the user, and the communication unit transmits the housing ID together with the user ID obtained by reading the code information to the information processing apparatus to cause the cooperation to be performed. The photographing apparatus according to claim 3.

8. When the number of successful collaborations is less than a predetermined number of times, the control unit controls the start of the game by applying the normal fee. The imaging device according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. The control unit sets the condition for applying a fee lower than the normal fee as the play fee according to an operation of an administrator on the housing or according to control by an external device. The imaging device according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The code information further represents a store ID which is identification information assigned to a store. The collaboration by the information processing device is performed so as to associate the user ID, the housing ID, and the store ID transmitted from the mobile terminal. When the number of successful collaborations using the housing IDs of devices installed in the same store represented by the store ID is greater than the predetermined number of times, the control unit applies a fee lower than the normal fee as the play fee. The imaging device according to claim 6.

11. When the number of successful collaborations using the housing IDs of devices of the same model represented by the housing ID is greater than the predetermined number of times, the control unit applies a fee lower than the normal fee as the play fee. The imaging device according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

12. The control unit applies different discount rates to the normal fee based on at least any one of the content of the setting for the housing, the model of the imaging device, the number of users who have succeeded in the collaboration, and the membership type of a predetermined service used by the users who have succeeded in the collaboration, and sets a play fee lower than the normal fee. The imaging device according to claim 1.

13. The information indicating the result of the collaboration transmitted from the information processing device includes information indicating the number of successful collaborations. The imaging device further includes a display control unit that displays a screen including a display of the play fee to be applied based on the result of the collaboration. The imaging device according to claim 3.

14. An imaging device that provides a user with a game including photographing with the user as a subject. When the association between the user ID, which is the identification information of the user, and the housing ID, which is the identification information assigned to the housing of the imaging device, is successful, and when the number of successful associations within a predetermined period set as a condition is greater than a predetermined multiple times, control the start of the game by applying a fee lower than the normal fee as the play fee for the current game, When the association fails, control the start of the game by applying the normal fee Control method.

15. When the association between the user ID, which is the identification information of the user, and the housing ID, which is the identification information assigned to the housing of the imaging device that provides the user with a game including imaging of the user as a subject, is successful, and when the number of successful associations within a predetermined period set as a condition is greater than a predetermined multiple times, control the imaging device to start the game by applying a fee lower than the normal fee as the play fee for the current game, and when the association fails, control the imaging device to start the game by applying the normal fee, and includes a control unit Information processing device.

16. The control unit performs the association based on the user ID and the housing ID transmitted from the mobile terminal of the user that has read the code information representing the housing ID and displayed on the display unit of the imaging device. The information processing device according to claim 15.

17. The control unit performs the association based on the user ID and the housing ID transmitted from the imaging device that has acquired the user ID by reading the code information displayed on the mobile terminal of the user. The information processing device according to claim 15.

18. The information processing device When the association between the user ID, which is the identification information of the user, and the housing ID, which is the identification information assigned to the housing of the imaging device that provides the user with a game including imaging of the user as a subject, is successful, and when the number of successful associations within a predetermined period set as a condition is greater than a predetermined multiple times, control the imaging device to start the game by applying a fee lower than the normal fee as the play fee for the current game, When the association fails, control the imaging device to start the game by applying the normal fee Information processing method.

Images