Test chart, image analysis device, image analysis system, image analysis method and program

Abstract

This test chart TC1 comprises a sheet material ST and a plurality of first skin reflection regions SA1-SA4 that are formed on the sheet material ST. Each of the plurality of first skin reflection regions SA1-SA4 indicates the reflectance of the skin with respect to first-wavelength light.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a test chart, an image analysis device, an image analysis system, an image analysis method, and program Regarding. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a method for displaying a digital color face image in which the face of a subject is photographed, and the photographed face image is subjected to makeup and hair styling by image processing, and then displayed on a display means.

[0003] In the display method described in Patent Document 1, a color chart with known colorimetric luminance (reflectance) is photographed with a camera under the same environment as the facial image. An illuminance correction coefficient Q1 for the photographing environment is calculated from the RGB values ​​of the color chart image output from the camera to a computer. The photographed facial image is then imported into the computer, where illuminance correction is performed by converting the RGB components of each pixel in the entire image to a converted output level for colorimetric luminance using the illuminance correction coefficient Q1. The facial image converted to a converted output level for colorimetric luminance using the illuminance correction coefficient Q1 for the photographing environment is then corrected by the camera to an output level using a pre-adjusted illuminance correction coefficient Q2 that "makes the face (skin color) appear to have a desirable brightness" and output to a display.

[0004] Patent Documents 2 and 3 disclose grayscale test charts.

[0005] Patent Document 2 discloses a test chart that transmits light from a light-emitting section. This test chart is integrally provided with grayscale chart sections 23A and 23B, which are made up of a plurality of sections with gradually differing light transmittances arranged in parallel, and a resolution chart section 24, which is made up of a light and dark striped pattern with a predetermined pitch.

[0006] Patent Document 3 discloses a test chart in which two patterns, which are the same gradation pattern, are arranged point-symmetrically with respect to the center point of the paper surface. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-10283 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 07-222206 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-268363 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] The present disclosure aims to improve upon the techniques described in the prior art documents mentioned above. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, Sheet material; a plurality of first skin reflective areas formed on the sheet material; Each of the plurality of first skin reflective areas indicates a reflectance of skin with respect to light of a first wavelength. death, The plurality of first skin reflective regions include a first maximum region that exhibits a maximum reflectance of the skin to the first wavelength light, and a first minimum region that exhibits a minimum reflectance of the skin to the first wavelength light. A test chart is provided.

[0010] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an image acquisition means for acquiring a chart image obtained by photographing a test chart; an analysis means for analyzing the chart image, The test chart is Sheet material; a plurality of first skin reflective areas formed on the sheet material; Each of the plurality of first skin reflective areas indicates a reflectance of skin with respect to light of a first wavelength. death, further comprising an adjustment unit that adjusts a predetermined target device based on the analysis result of the chart image; the analyzing means determines brightness of a plurality of first skin reflection images that indicate each of the plurality of first skin reflection regions; The adjustment means adjusts the target device so that the brightness of the plurality of first skin reflection images is equal to or less than the brightness of a first maximum image representing a first maximum area and equal to or greater than the brightness of a first minimum image representing a first minimum area. An image analysis device is provided.

[0011] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, A test chart and a camera that captures an image of the test chart and generates a chart image; a first light that irradiates the test chart with the first wavelength light; an image analysis device, The test chart is Sheet material; a plurality of first skin reflective areas formed on the sheet material; each of the plurality of first skin reflective regions indicates a reflectance of skin with respect to light at a first wavelength; The image analysis device an image acquisition means for acquiring a chart image obtained by photographing the test chart; and an analysis means for analyzing the chart image. An image analysis system is provided.

[0012] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, One or more computers Acquire the chart image obtained by photographing the test chart, analyzing the chart image; The test chart is Sheet material; a plurality of first skin reflective areas formed on the sheet material; Each of the plurality of first skin reflective areas indicates a reflectance of skin with respect to light of a first wavelength. death, The plurality of first skin reflective regions include a first maximum region that exhibits a maximum reflectance of the skin to the first wavelength light, and a first minimum region that exhibits a minimum reflectance of the skin to the first wavelength light. A method for image analysis is provided.

[0013] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, On the computer, Acquire the chart image obtained by photographing the test chart, a program for executing analysis of the chart image, The test chart is Sheet material; a plurality of first skin reflective areas formed on the sheet material; Each of the plurality of first skin reflective areas indicates a reflectance of skin with respect to light of a first wavelength. death, The plurality of first skin reflective regions include a first maximum region that exhibits a maximum reflectance of the skin to the first wavelength light, and a first minimum region that exhibits a minimum reflectance of the skin to the first wavelength light. Program Mu Provided. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a test chart according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an image analysis system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] 1 is a diagram showing an overview of an image analysis device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4] 1 is a flowchart showing an outline of an image analysis method according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a detailed example of the functional configuration of the image analyzing device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the physical configuration of an image analyzing device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 7] 4 is a flowchart showing a detailed example of an image analysis method according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart showing a detailed example of an analysis process according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display image when all of the first skin reflection images SAim1 to SAim4 are determined to be good images. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a displayed image when only the first skin reflection image SAim1 is determined to be an unsatisfactory image. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a displayed image when only the first skin reflection image SAim3 and the first skin reflection image SAim4 are determined to be poor images. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display image when all of the first skin reflection images SAim1 to SAim4 are determined to be poor images. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a test chart according to the second embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an image analysis system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display image when all of the second skin reflection images SBim1 to SBim4 are determined to be good images. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a displayed image when only the second skin reflection image SBim1 is determined to be an unsatisfactory image. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display image when only the second skin reflection image SBim3 and the second skin reflection image SBim4 are determined to be poor images. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display image when all of the second skin reflection images SBim1 to SBim4 are determined to be poor images. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an image analysis system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of an image analyzing device according to a third embodiment. [Figure 21] 11 is a flowchart showing an example of an image analysis method according to a third embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an image analysis system according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 23] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of an image analyzing device according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 24] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of an image analysis method according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 25] 10 is a flowchart showing a detailed example of an analysis process according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 26] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing a first example of a first image area and a second image area when an area specifying condition related to the position where the first light is installed is set. [Figure 27]10A and 10B are diagrams showing a second example of the first image area and the second image area when an area specifying condition related to the position where the first light is installed is set. [Figure 28] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a test chart according to the fifth embodiment. [Figure 29] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an image analysis system according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 30] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of an image analyzing device according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 31] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of an image analysis method according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 32] 13 is a flowchart showing a detailed example of an analysis process according to the fifth embodiment. [Figure 33] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing a third example of the first image area and the second image area when an area specifying condition related to the position where the first light is installed is set. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In all drawings, similar components are denoted by similar reference numerals, and descriptions thereof will be omitted where appropriate.

[0016] <Embodiment 1> (overview) 1 is a diagram showing a test chart TC1 according to embodiment 1. The test chart TC1 includes a sheet material ST and a plurality of first skin reflective regions SA1 to SA4 formed on the sheet material ST. Each of the plurality of first skin reflective regions SA1 to SA4 indicates the reflectance of skin with respect to first wavelength light.

[0017] This test chart TC1 makes it possible to improve upon the techniques described in the prior art documents mentioned above.

[0018] 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the image analysis system 100 according to embodiment 1. The image analysis system 100 includes a test chart TC1, a camera 101, a first light 102, and an image analysis device 103.

[0019] The camera 101 captures an image of the test chart TC1 to generate a chart image. The first light 102 irradiates the test chart TC1 with light of a first wavelength.

[0020] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an overview of the image analysis device 103 according to the first embodiment.

[0021] The image analysis device 103 includes an image acquisition unit 104 that acquires a chart image obtained by photographing the test chart TC1, and an analysis unit 105 that analyzes the chart image.

[0022] This image analysis system 100 makes it possible to obtain an appropriate skin image by photographing using light of a specific wavelength. Furthermore, this image analysis device 103 makes it possible to improve the techniques described in the prior art documents mentioned above.

[0023] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an outline of the image analysis method according to the first embodiment.

[0024] The image acquisition unit 104 acquires a chart image obtained by photographing the test chart TC1 (step S101). The analysis unit 105 analyzes the chart image (step S102).

[0025] This image analysis method makes it possible to improve upon the techniques described in the prior art documents mentioned above.

[0026] Below, detailed examples of the test chart TC1, the image analysis system 100, the image analysis device 103, and the image analysis method according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0027] (detail) Generally, when capturing images for facial recognition and the like, light of a specific wavelength is often irradiated onto the subject. Furthermore, the reflectance of a person's skin to light of a specific wavelength generally varies depending on the person's condition (e.g., physical condition, makeup, etc.), innate characteristics, etc. Therefore, images of various people captured using light of a specific wavelength may have overexposed or underexposed areas depending on the skin's reflectance to that light, resulting in low-quality images.

[0028] For example, in the technology described in Patent Document 1, an image is corrected using the illuminance correction coefficients Q1 and Q2 as described above. If the image showing the skin (skin image) itself generated by shooting is a low-quality image that includes blown-out highlights and crushed shadows, it may be difficult to obtain an appropriate skin image by shooting using light of a specific wavelength, even if the technology described in Patent Document 1 is used.

[0029] Furthermore, for example, even if the techniques described in Patent Documents 2 and 3 can obtain an image in which a gradation pattern is properly captured, it may be difficult to obtain an appropriate skin image by capturing an image using light of a specific wavelength.

[0030] In view of the above circumstances, one example of the objective of the present disclosure is to provide a test chart, an image analysis device, an image analysis system, an image analysis method, and a recording medium that solve the problem of obtaining an appropriate skin image by photographing using light of a specific wavelength. (Test chart TC1 configuration example) Test chart TC1 is a tool for checking in advance the lighting environment of a location (shooting location) where a person is photographed for purposes such as facial recognition. The lighting environment refers to an environment related to light (for example, the distribution of light), and the light that creates the lighting environment may be various types of light such as natural light or illuminating light. Natural light is, for example, sunlight. Illuminating light is light used for illumination, and its light source may be, for example, an LED (Light-Emitting Diode), a fluorescent lamp, or an incandescent lamp.

[0031] As shown in FIG. 1, the test chart TC1 includes a sheet material ST and a first area SA that is appropriately set on one main surface of the sheet material ST.

[0032] The sheet material ST is a rectangular sheet, for example, about 200 mm (millimeters) wide and 100 to 300 mm long.

[0033] The sheet material ST is preferably opaque, and may be made of, for example, cardboard, plastic, wood, metal, glass, or a combination of one or more of these. If the material of the sheet material ST is cardboard, plastic, wood, or the like, the sheet material ST will be lightweight, making it easy to carry.

[0034] The shape, dimensions, and material of the sheet material ST are not limited to those described above, and may be changed as appropriate.

[0035] A plurality of first skin reflective regions SA1 to SA4 are formed in the first region SA. Each of the plurality of first skin reflective regions SA1 to SA4 indicates the reflectance of the skin with respect to the first wavelength light (unit: %, for example). The first skin reflective regions SA1 to SA4 are also referred to as color charts or patches. Note that the number of first skin reflective regions is not limited to four, as long as a plurality (i.e., two or more) of first skin reflective regions are formed in the first region SA.

[0036] The first wavelength light is light used to photograph a subject. The wavelength of the first wavelength light is the first wavelength. For example, the first wavelength light is near-infrared light, and in this case, the first wavelength is a specific wavelength selected from the range of 780 to 2500 nm.

[0037] In the example shown in Fig. 1, the first skin reflective area SA1 is an area corresponding to human skin with a reflectance of A1 for light at the first wavelength. The first skin reflective area SA2 is an area corresponding to human skin with a reflectance of A2 for light at the first wavelength. The first skin reflective area SA3 is an area corresponding to human skin with a reflectance of A3 for light at the first wavelength. The first skin reflective area SA4 is an area corresponding to human skin with a reflectance of A4 for light at the first wavelength.

[0038] The reflectances A1 to A4 are different from one another, and the magnitudes of A1 to A4 according to this embodiment are A1>A2>A3>A4.

[0039] A1 is the maximum reflectance of skin for light of the first wavelength. That is, the first skin reflective area SA1 corresponds to the "first maximum area" that shows the maximum reflectance of skin for light of the first wavelength.

[0040] A4 is the minimum reflectance of the skin to the first wavelength light. That is, the first skin reflective area SA4 corresponds to the "first minimum area" that shows the minimum reflectance of the skin to the first wavelength light.

[0041] Generally, in an environment where light having a specific wavelength is irradiated onto human skin, the reflectance of the human skin will be a value between the maximum reflectance and the minimum reflectance according to the wavelength of the irradiated light. For example, when the irradiated light is near-infrared light, the maximum reflectance is approximately 70 to 95% and the minimum reflectance is approximately 5 to 30%. The maximum and minimum reflectances of human skin with respect to light having a specific wavelength (e.g., first wavelength light) can be obtained, for example, by irradiating a large number of people with light having the specific wavelength and measuring the reflectance.

[0042] The plurality of first skin reflective regions SA1 to SA4 may include the first maximum region and the first minimum region, and the number of the first skin reflective regions may be changed as appropriate as long as it is two or more.

[0043] There are various methods for manufacturing the test chart TC1, and one example will be described below.

[0044] First, the worker prepares multiple pieces of paper that will form each of the first skin reflective areas SA1-SA4 and attaches each piece of paper to a backing. The multiple pieces of paper are, for example, paper coated with paint that is adjusted to the reflectance of each of the first skin reflective areas SA1-SA4. The paint is, for example, a matte lacquer-based paint, but is not limited to this.

[0045] Next, the worker prepares a black cardboard of the same size as the mount and cuts out the areas corresponding to the multiple pieces of paper attached to the mount (i.e., the multiple first skin reflective areas SA1 to SA4).The worker then attaches this black cardboard to the mount with the multiple pieces of paper attached.The black cardboard preferably has a reflectance of 0 (zero) for near-infrared light, for example.This allows the test chart TC1 to be manufactured.In this example, the sheet material ST is composed of the mount and the black cardboard.

[0046] (Configuration example of image analysis system 100) The camera 101 is a camera for capturing an image of a subject for purposes such as face authentication. When an image obtained by capturing an image is used for face authentication, the camera 101 is configured to capture an image of a person's face. In preparation before capturing an image of the subject, the camera 101 captures an image of a test chart TC1 and generates a chart image. The camera 101 may be a near-infrared camera capable of capturing an iris image for iris authentication.

[0047] The first light 102 is a light for irradiating the subject with first wavelength light. When an image obtained by photographing is used for face recognition, the first light 102 is provided to irradiate the person's face with the first wavelength light while the camera 101 is photographing, for example. The first light 102 may irradiate the test chart TC1 with the first wavelength light in advance preparation before the camera 101 photographs the subject.

[0048] The image analysis system 100 may include a plurality of first lights 102.

[0049] (Example of functional configuration of image analysis device 103) 5 is a diagram showing a detailed example of the functional configuration of the image analysis device 103 according to embodiment 1. The image analysis device 103 is a device that analyzes a chart image generated by photographing a test chart TC1.

[0050] The image analysis device 103 functionally comprises, for example, an image acquisition unit 104 , an analysis unit 105 , a display unit 106 , and a display control unit 107 .

[0051] The image acquisition unit 104 acquires, for example, a chart image generated by the camera 101. The image acquisition unit 104 acquires the image from the camera 101 via, for example, a wired, wireless, or combination thereof communication line.

[0052] The analysis unit 105 analyzes the chart image. Functionally, the analysis unit 105 includes a brightness acquisition unit 108 and a determination unit 109.

[0053] The brightness acquisition unit 108 obtains the brightness of each of the plurality of first skin reflection images SAim1 to SAim4. The first skin reflection images SAim1 to SAim4 are image portions that respectively represent the plurality of first skin reflection areas SA1 to SA4 in the chart image.

[0054] The determination unit 109 determines whether each of the first skin reflection images SAim1 to SAim4 is a good image that satisfies a predetermined first determination criterion, based on the brightness of each of the first skin reflection images SAim1 to SAim4.

[0055] The first criterion is, for example, that the brightness of the first skin reflection images SAim1 to SAim4 is less than a first threshold value and greater than a second threshold value. The first threshold value is a value greater than the second threshold value.

[0056] The first threshold is a value that is appropriately set to determine whether or not overexposure has occurred. That is, the determination unit 109 compares the brightness of each of the first skin reflection images SAim1 to SAim4 with the first threshold to determine whether or not overexposure has occurred.

[0057] The second threshold is a value that is appropriately set to determine whether or not blackout occurs. That is, the determination unit 109 compares the brightness of each of the first skin reflection images SAim1 to SAim4 with the second threshold to determine whether or not blackout occurs.

[0058] In this case, for example, the determining unit 109 determines that the first skin reflection images SAim1-SAim4 that are free of whiteout or blackout are good images, and the determining unit 109 determines that the first skin reflection images SAim1-SAim4 that are free of whiteout or blackout are not good images.

[0059] The display unit 106 displays various types of information under the control of the display control unit 107. The display control unit 107 causes, for example, the analysis result of the chart image to be displayed on the display unit 106. In detail, for example, the display control unit 107 generates a display image in which the analysis result of the chart image is superimposed on the chart image, and causes the display unit 106 to display the display image.

[0060] (Example of physical configuration of image analysis device 103) 6 is a diagram showing an example of the physical configuration of the image analysis device 103 according to embodiment 1. The image analysis device 103 is configured by, for example, a computer.

[0061] The image analysis device 103 includes, for example, a bus 1010, a processor 1020, a memory 1030, a storage device 1040, a network interface 1050, an input interface 1060, and an output interface 1070.

[0062] The bus 1010 is a data transmission path for transmitting and receiving data among the processor 1020, memory 1030, storage device 1040, network interface 1050, input interface 1060, and output interface 1070. However, the method of connecting the processor 1020 and other components to each other is not limited to bus connection.

[0063] The processor 1020 is implemented by a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), or the like.

[0064] The memory 1030 is a main storage device realized by a RAM (Random Access Memory) or the like.

[0065] The storage device 1040 is an auxiliary storage device realized by a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), a memory card, a read only memory (ROM), or the like. The storage device 1040 stores program modules for realizing each function of the image analyzing device 103. The processor 1020 reads each of these program modules into the memory 1030 and executes them, thereby realizing each function corresponding to the program module.

[0066] The network interface 1050 is an interface for connecting the image analysis device 103 to a communication line.

[0067] The input interface 1060 is an interface for the user to input information, and is composed of, for example, a touch panel, a keyboard, a mouse, and the like.

[0068] The output interface 1070 is an interface for presenting information to the user, and is configured, for example, by a liquid crystal panel, an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) panel, or the like.

[0069] The physical configuration of the image analysis device 103 is not limited to that described here and may be changed as appropriate. The image analysis device 103 may be configured, for example, by a plurality of computers. Furthermore, for example, one or both of the camera 101 and the first light 102 may be configured integrally with the image analysis device 103.

[0070] (Detailed example of image analysis method according to embodiment 1) 7 is a flowchart showing a detailed example of an image analysis method according to the first embodiment. The image analysis method is a method for analyzing a chart image generated by photographing a test chart TC1. The image analysis method is started, for example, when the camera 101 photographs the test chart TC1 in response to an instruction from a user. When photographing the test chart TC1, the test chart TC1 is placed, for example, at a location where a subject (for example, the face of a person to be authenticated) is located in face authentication.

[0071] The image acquisition unit 104 acquires a chart image obtained by photographing the test chart TC1 (step S101).

[0072] In detail, for example, the image acquisition unit 104 acquires a chart image from the camera 101 .

[0073] The analysis unit 105 analyzes the chart image (step S102).

[0074] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a detailed example of the analysis process (step S102) according to the first embodiment.

[0075] The brightness acquisition unit 108 acquires the brightness of each of the plurality of first skin reflection images SAim1 to SAim4 based on the chart image acquired in step S101 (step S102a).

[0076] In more detail, for example, the brightness acquisition unit 108 extracts pixel values ​​of each of the first skin reflection images SAim1-SAim4 from the chart image acquired in step S101. The brightness acquisition unit 108 calculates the brightness of each of the first skin reflection images SAim1-SAim4 based on the extracted pixel values.

[0077] The determination unit 109 determines whether each of the first skin reflection images SAim1 to SAim4 is a good image that satisfies a predetermined first determination criterion, based on the brightness acquired in step S102a (step S102b).

[0078] The first criterion is, for example, as described above, that the brightness of the first skin reflection images SAim1 to SAim4 is less than the first threshold and greater than the second threshold.

[0079] The determination unit 109 determines that the first skin reflection images SAim1-SAim4 obtained in step S102a with brightness equal to or greater than the first threshold have overexposed highlights and are therefore not good images (NG) because of this. The determination unit 109 determines that the first skin reflection images SAim1-SAim4 obtained in step S102a with brightness equal to or less than the second threshold have underexposed highlights and are therefore not good images (NG).

[0080] The first skin reflection images SAim1-SAim4, whose brightness obtained in step S102a is less than the first threshold and greater than the second threshold, do not suffer from either blown-out highlights or crushed shadows. Therefore, the determining unit 109 determines that such first skin reflection images SAim1-SAim4 are good images (OK).

[0081] After executing step S102b, the determination unit 109 returns to the image analysis process.

[0082] Referring again to FIG. The display control unit 107 generates the display images 111a to 111d, and causes the display unit 106 to display the display images 111a to 111d (step S103), thereby completing the image analysis process.

[0083] In detail, for example, the display control unit 107 receives the information acquired in step S101. Tachi The display control unit 107 generates display images 111a to 111d based on the chart image and the analysis result obtained in step S102. For example, the display control unit 107 generates display images 111a to 111d by superimposing the analysis result obtained in step S102 on the chart image obtained in step S101.

[0084] 9 to 12 are diagrams showing examples of display images 111a to 111d according to this embodiment.

[0085] 9 shows an example of the display image 111a when all of the first skin reflection images SAim1 to SAim4 are determined to be good images. In this case, regardless of the value of the skin reflectance, it is highly likely that a good enough image (e.g., a face image) for performing face recognition or the like can be obtained. Therefore, it can be seen that the intensity of the first wavelength light is appropriate for the lighting environment of the shooting location.

[0086] 10 shows an example of the display image 111b when only the first skin reflection image SAim1 is determined to be an unsatisfactory image. In this case, if the skin has a high reflectance to the first wavelength light, it may not be possible to obtain a satisfactory image (e.g., a facial image) that can be used for face recognition or the like. Therefore, it can be seen that the first wavelength light may be too strong in the lighting environment of the shooting location.

[0087] 11 shows an example of a display image 111c when only the first skin reflection image SAim3 and the first skin reflection image SAim4 are determined to be poor quality. In this case, if the skin has low reflectance to the first wavelength light, it may not be possible to obtain a good enough image (e.g., a facial image) to perform facial recognition or the like for that person. Therefore, it can be seen that the first wavelength light may be weak in the lighting environment of the shooting location.

[0088] 12 shows an example of a display image 111d when none of the first skin reflection images SAim1 to SAim4 are determined to be good images. In this case, regardless of the value of the skin reflectance, it is highly likely that a good enough image (e.g., a face image) for performing face recognition or the like cannot be obtained. Therefore, it can be seen that the first wavelength light may be very weak in the lighting environment of the shooting location.

[0089] By performing such image analysis processing, it is possible to determine whether the lighting environment of the shooting location is suitable for taking photographs for purposes such as facial recognition, and if the lighting environment is inappropriate, it is possible to take appropriate measures to make it suitable. Therefore, it is possible to obtain an appropriate skin image by taking a photograph using light of a specific wavelength. Such a skin image can be used for biometric authentication such as facial recognition or iris recognition, and in such cases, it is possible to obtain an appropriate image for biometric authentication, resulting in more accurate biometric authentication.

[0090] (Actions and Effects) As described above, according to this embodiment, the test chart TC1 includes a sheet material ST and a plurality of first skin reflective areas SA1 to SA4 formed on the sheet material ST. Each of the plurality of first skin reflective areas SA1 to SA4 indicates the reflectance of skin with respect to first wavelength light.

[0091] This allows the user to check in advance whether an appropriate image for the intended purpose can be obtained when photographing a subject using light of the first wavelength, and to take appropriate measures if the lighting environment is inappropriate. Therefore, it becomes possible to obtain an appropriate skin image when photographing a subject using light of a specific wavelength.

[0092] According to this embodiment, image analysis device 103 includes image acquisition unit 104 that acquires a chart image obtained by photographing test chart TC1, and analysis unit 105 that analyzes the chart image. Test chart TC1 includes sheet material ST and a plurality of first skin reflective areas SA1-SA4 formed on sheet material ST. Each of the plurality of first skin reflective areas SA1-SA4 indicates the reflectance of skin with respect to first wavelength light.

[0093] This allows the user to check in advance whether an appropriate image for the intended purpose can be obtained when photographing a subject using light of the first wavelength, and to take appropriate measures if the lighting environment is inappropriate. Therefore, it becomes possible to obtain an appropriate skin image when photographing a subject using light of a specific wavelength.

[0094] According to this embodiment, the image analysis device 103 further includes a display control unit 107. The display control unit 107 generates display images 111a to 111d by superimposing the analysis result of the chart image on the chart image, and causes the display unit 106 to display the display images 111a to 111d.

[0095] This makes it easy to understand whether the lighting environment of the shooting location is such that an appropriate image for the intended purpose can be obtained when a subject is photographed using light of the first wavelength. Therefore, if the lighting environment is inappropriate, it is easy to take measures to make it appropriate. Therefore, it becomes possible to easily obtain an appropriate skin image by photographing using light of a specific wavelength.

[0096] According to this embodiment, the image analysis system 100 includes a test chart TC1, a camera 101, a first light 102, and an image analysis device 103.

[0097] The test chart TC1 includes a sheet material ST and a plurality of first skin reflective areas SA1 to SA4 formed on the sheet material ST. Each of the plurality of first skin reflective areas SA1 to SA4 indicates the reflectance of skin with respect to first wavelength light.

[0098] The camera 101 captures an image of the test chart TC1 to generate a chart image. The first light 102 irradiates the test chart TC1 with light of a first wavelength.

[0099] The image analysis device 103 includes an image acquisition unit 104 that acquires a chart image obtained by photographing the test chart TC1, and an analysis unit 105 that analyzes the chart image.

[0100] This allows the user to check in advance whether an appropriate image for the intended purpose can be obtained when photographing a subject using light of the first wavelength, and to take appropriate measures if the lighting environment is inappropriate. Therefore, it becomes possible to obtain an appropriate skin image when photographing a subject using light of a specific wavelength.

[0101] <Embodiment 2> In this embodiment, an example will be described in which the test chart further includes a plurality of second skin reflection areas that indicate the reflectance of skin to second wavelength light. In this embodiment, for the sake of simplicity, explanations that overlap with those in the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate, and differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described.

[0102] 13 is a diagram showing a test chart TC2 according to the second embodiment. The test chart TC2 includes a sheet material ST and a plurality of first skin reflective areas SA1 to SA4 similar to those of the first embodiment, as well as a plurality of second skin reflective areas SB1 to SB4 formed on the sheet material ST. 2 Each of the skin reflection regions SB1 to SB4 indicates the reflectance of skin with respect to second wavelength light.

[0103] In detail, the test chart TC2 includes a second area SB that is appropriately set on one main surface of the sheet material ST, in addition to the sheet material ST and the first area SA that are the same as those in the first embodiment. That is, the second area SB is set on the same main surface as the main surface on which the first area SA is set.

[0104] A plurality of second skin reflective regions SB1 to SB4 are formed in the second region SB. Each of the plurality of second skin reflective regions SB1 to SB4 indicates the reflectance of skin for second wavelength light (unit: %, for example). The second skin reflective regions SB1 to SB4 are also referred to as color charts or patches. Note that the number of second skin reflective regions is not limited to four, as long as a plurality (i.e., two or more) of second skin reflective regions are formed in the second region SB.

[0105] The second wavelength light is light used to photograph a subject. The wavelength of the second wavelength light is the second wavelength. For example, the second wavelength light is near-infrared light, and in this case, the second wavelength is a specific wavelength selected from 700 to 2500 nm, similar to the first wavelength. However, the second wavelength is different from the first wavelength.

[0106] In the example shown in Fig. 13, the second skin reflective region SB1 is a region corresponding to human skin with a reflectance of B1 for second wavelength light. The second skin reflective region SB2 is a region corresponding to human skin with a reflectance of B2 for second wavelength light. The second skin reflective region SB3 is a region corresponding to human skin with a reflectance of B3 for second wavelength light. The second skin reflective region SB4 is a region corresponding to human skin with a reflectance of B4 for second wavelength light.

[0107] The reflectances B1 to B4 are different from one another, and the magnitudes of B1 to B4 according to this embodiment are B1>B2>B3>B4.

[0108] B1 is the maximum reflectance of skin for light at the second wavelength. That is, the second skin reflective region SB1 corresponds to the "second maximum region" that shows the maximum reflectance of skin for light at the second wavelength.

[0109] B4 is the minimum reflectance of the skin for the second wavelength light. That is, the second skin reflective region SB4 corresponds to the "second minimum region" that shows the minimum reflectance of the skin for the second wavelength light.

[0110] The plurality of second skin reflective regions SB1 to SB4 may include the second maximum region and the second minimum region, and the number may be changed as appropriate as long as it is two or more.

[0111] There are various methods for manufacturing the test chart TC2. For example, the test chart TC2 can be manufactured in the same manner as the test chart TC1 according to embodiment 1. That is, when manufacturing the test chart TC2, an operator may prepare multiple pieces of paper that form each of the multiple first skin reflective regions SA1-SA4, as well as multiple pieces of paper that form each of the multiple second skin reflective regions SB1-SB4, and attach each of the pieces of paper to a backing. Then, the operator may prepare a piece of black cardboard the same size as the backing, cut out the pieces of paper that correspond to the multiple first skin reflective regions SA1-SA4 and the multiple second skin reflective regions SB1-SB4, and attach the black cardboard to the backing with the multiple pieces of paper attached.

[0112] (Configuration example of image analysis system 200) 14 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an image analysis system 200 according to embodiment 2. The image analysis system 200 includes a second light 202 instead of the first light 102 according to embodiment 1. Except for this, the image analysis system 200 may be configured similarly to the image analysis system 100 according to embodiment 1.

[0113] The second light 202 is a light for irradiating the subject with second wavelength light. When an image obtained by photographing is used for face recognition, the second light 202 is provided to irradiate the person's face with second wavelength light while the camera 101 is photographing, for example. The second light 202 may irradiate the test chart TC2 with second wavelength light in advance preparation before the camera 101 photographs the subject.

[0114] The image analysis system 200 may include a plurality of second lights 202.

[0115] The image analyzing device 103 according to this embodiment analyzes a chart image generated by capturing a test chart TC2 instead of the test chart TC1 in embodiment 1. Furthermore, the image analyzing device 103 according to this embodiment uses a plurality of second skin reflection images SBim1 to SBim4 instead of the plurality of first skin reflection images SAim1 to SAim4 in embodiment 1. The second skin reflection images SBim1 to SBim4 are image portions in the chart image that respectively show a plurality of second skin reflection regions SB1 to SB4.

[0116] Except for these, the image analyzing device 103 according to this embodiment may be configured functionally similarly to that of embodiment 1. Note that the image analyzing device 103 may automatically determine and repeatedly select whether to use the first skin reflection images SAim1-SAim4 or the second skin reflection images SBim1-SBim4 depending on, for example, the type of light 102, 202, or may repeat the determination in response to a user instruction.

[0117] The image analysis device 103 according to this embodiment may be physically configured in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

[0118] The image analysis method according to this embodiment analyzes a chart image generated by photographing a test chart TC2 instead of the test chart TC1 in embodiment 1. Furthermore, the image analysis method according to this embodiment may use a plurality of second skin reflection images SBim1-SBim4 instead of the plurality of first skin reflection images SAim1-SAim4 in embodiment 1.

[0119] Except for these, the image analysis method according to this embodiment may be the same as that according to the first embodiment.

[0120] 15 to 18 are diagrams showing an example of a display image 211 according to this embodiment. Figures 15 to 18 are examples corresponding to Figures 9 to 12 referred to in the first embodiment, respectively.

[0121] 15 shows an example of a display image 211a when all of the second skin reflection images SBim1 to SBim4 are determined to be good images. By referring to the display image 211a, it can be seen that the intensity of the second wavelength light is appropriate for the lighting environment of the shooting location, as described in the first embodiment. 16 shows an example of a display image 211b when only the second skin reflection image SBim1 is determined to be an unsatisfactory image. Referring to the display image 211b, it can be seen that the second wavelength light may be too strong in the lighting environment of the shooting location, as described in the first embodiment.

[0122] 17 shows an example of a display image 211c when only the second skin reflection image SBim3 and the second skin reflection image SBim4 are determined to be poor images. Referring to the display image 211c, it can be seen that the second wavelength light may be weak in the lighting environment of the shooting location, as described in the first embodiment.

[0123] 18 shows an example of a display image 211d when all of the second skin reflection images SBim1 to SBim4 are determined to be poor images. Referring to the display image 211d, it can be seen that the second wavelength light may be very weak in the lighting environment of the shooting location, as described in the first embodiment.

[0124] According to this embodiment, the test chart TC2 further includes a plurality of second skin reflection areas SB1 to SB4 formed on the sheet material ST. Each of the second skin reflection areas SB1 to SB4 indicates the reflectance of skin with respect to second wavelength light.

[0125] This makes it possible to check in advance whether an appropriate image for the intended purpose can be obtained when photographing a subject, regardless of whether the image analysis system 100, 200 uses first wavelength light or second wavelength light, and to take appropriate measures if the lighting environment is inappropriate. Therefore, it becomes possible to obtain appropriate skin images by photographing using light of multiple specific wavelengths.

[0126] According to this embodiment, the multiple first skin reflective regions SA1 to SA4 include a first maximum region (first skin reflective region SA1) that exhibits the maximum reflectance of skin to the first wavelength light, and a first minimum region (first skin reflective region SA4) that exhibits the minimum reflectance of skin to the first wavelength light.

[0127] This allows a check in advance as to whether an appropriate image for a particular application can be obtained when a subject is photographed using light of the first wavelength, regardless of the reflectance of the subject's skin, and if the lighting environment is inappropriate, measures can be taken to make it appropriate. Therefore, it becomes possible to obtain an appropriate skin image when photographing a subject using light of a specific wavelength.

[0128] The multiple second skin reflective regions SB1 to SB4 include a second maximum region (second skin reflective region SB1) that shows the maximum reflectance of skin to second wavelength light, and a second minimum region (second skin reflective region SB4) that shows the minimum reflectance of skin to the second wavelength light.

[0129] This allows for a check in advance as to whether an appropriate image for the intended purpose can be obtained when photographing a subject using light of the second wavelength, regardless of the reflectance of the subject's skin, and if the lighting environment is inappropriate, measures can be taken to make it appropriate. Therefore, it becomes possible to obtain appropriate skin images when photographing a subject using light of multiple specific wavelengths.

[0130] According to this embodiment, the first wavelength light is near-infrared light.

[0131] This allows you to check in advance whether an appropriate image for the intended purpose can be obtained when photographing a subject using near-infrared light, and if the lighting environment is inappropriate, take appropriate measures to make it appropriate.As a result, it becomes possible to obtain appropriate skin images when photographing using near-infrared light.

[0132] According to this embodiment, the second wavelength light is also near-infrared light.

[0133] This makes it possible to check in advance whether an appropriate image for a particular application can be obtained when a subject is photographed using near-infrared light having one of a plurality of wavelengths, and to take appropriate measures if the lighting environment is inappropriate. Therefore, it becomes possible to obtain an appropriate skin image when photographing a subject using near-infrared light having one of a plurality of wavelengths.

[0134] <Embodiment 3> In this embodiment, a first example will be described in which an image analyzing device adjusts a predetermined target device based on the results of analyzing a chart image. In this embodiment, an example will be described in which such an image analyzing device is applied in place of the image analyzing device 103 included in the image analysis system 100 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, in this embodiment, explanations that overlap with the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate, and differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described.

[0135] The image analysis device 303 described in this embodiment may be applied in place of the image analysis device 103 included in the image analysis system 200 according to the second embodiment.

[0136] 19 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an image analysis system 300 according to embodiment 3. The image analysis system 300 includes an image analysis device 303 instead of the image analysis device 103. Except for this point, the image analysis system 300 may be configured similarly to the image analysis system 100 according to embodiment 1.

[0137] 20 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of an image analysis device 303 according to embodiment 3. The image analysis device 303 includes the same image acquisition unit 104 as in embodiment 1, an analysis unit 305 replacing the analysis unit 105 according to embodiment 1, and an adjustment unit 311.

[0138] The analysis unit 305 analyzes the chart image in the same manner as the analysis unit 105 according to embodiment 1. The analysis unit 305 according to this embodiment obtains the brightness of each of the plurality of first skin reflection images SAim1 to SAim4.

[0139] The adjustment unit 311 adjusts a predetermined target device based on the result of analyzing the chart image.

[0140] Here, the target devices include, for example, at least one of devices used for shooting and devices that affect the lighting environment of the shooting location. The devices used for shooting include, for example, at least one of a camera 101, a first light 102 that is lighting for shooting, etc. The devices that affect the lighting environment of the shooting location include, for example, if the shooting location is indoors, at least one of lighting devices such as an indoor light that illuminates the shooting location, and devices that operate lighting adjustment devices such as curtains and blinds that adjust the amount of light coming in from windows.

[0141] If the target device includes a camera 101, the adjustment unit 311 may adjust the shooting conditions (aperture value, shutter speed, etc.) of the camera 101. If the target device includes a first light 102, the adjustment unit 311 may adjust, for example, whether the first light 102 is turned on or off, and the brightness when turned on. If there are multiple first lights 102, the adjustment unit 311 may adjust whether each of the first lights 102 is turned on or off, and the brightness when turned on, etc.

[0142] If the target device includes one or more lighting devices, the adjustment unit 311 may adjust the on / off status of each lighting device, the brightness when turned on, etc. If the target device includes a device that operates a light adjustment device, the adjustment unit 311 may adjust the amount of light entering through the window by operating the light adjustment device.

[0143] The adjustment unit 311 according to the present embodiment adjusts the target device so that the brightness of the plurality of first skin reflection images SAim1 to SAim4 is equal to or less than the brightness of the first maximum image and equal to or greater than the brightness of the first minimum image.

[0144] The first largest image is an image showing the first largest area (first skin reflection area SA1) in the chart image, which is the first skin reflection image SAim1 in this embodiment. The first smallest image is an image showing the first smallest area (first skin reflection area SA4) in the chart image, which is the first skin reflection image SAim4 in this embodiment.

[0145] The image analysis device 303 according to this embodiment may be physically configured in the same manner as the image analysis device 103 according to the first embodiment.

[0146] (Example of image analysis method according to embodiment 3) FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing an example of an image analysis method according to the third embodiment.

[0147] When step S101 similar to that of the first embodiment is executed, the analysis unit 305 analyzes the chart image (step S302).

[0148] In this embodiment, in step S302, the analysis unit 305 obtains the brightness of each of the plurality of first skin reflection images SAim1 to SAim4.

[0149] The adjustment unit 311 adjusts the predetermined target device based on the result of analyzing the chart image in step S302 (step S304), and ends the image analysis process.

[0150] In detail, for example, in step S304, the adjustment unit 311 adjusts the target device so that the brightness of the multiple first skin reflection images SAim1 to SAim4 is equal to or less than the brightness of the first maximum image and equal to or greater than the brightness of the first minimum image.

[0151] As described in the first embodiment, the reflectances A1-A4 of the first skin reflection regions SA1-SA4 have the relationship A1>A2>A3>A4. Therefore, when the lighting environment at the shooting location is appropriate, the brightness of the multiple first skin reflection images SAim1-SAim4 will be as follows: brightness of first skin reflection image SAim1 > brightness of first skin reflection image SAim2 > brightness of first skin reflection image SAim3 > brightness of first skin reflection image SAim4. That is, at least the brightness of the multiple first skin reflection images SAim1-SAim4 will be less than or equal to the brightness of the first maximum image and greater than or equal to the brightness of the first minimum image.

[0152] In the image analysis process according to this embodiment, the target device is adjusted so that the brightness of the multiple first skin reflection images SAim1-SAim4 is equal to or less than the brightness of the first largest image (first skin reflection image SAim1) and equal to or greater than the brightness of the first smallest image (first skin reflection image SAim4). This allows adjustments to be made to the appropriate lighting environment at the shooting location. This makes it possible to obtain appropriate skin images by shooting using light of a specific wavelength.

[0153] (Actions and Effects) According to this embodiment, the image analysis device 303 further includes an adjustment unit 311 that adjusts a predetermined target device based on the analysis results of the chart image. The analysis unit 305 calculates the brightness of a plurality of first skin reflection images SAim1-SAim4 that represent the plurality of first skin reflection areas SA1-SA4. The adjustment unit 311 adjusts the target device so that the brightness of the plurality of first skin reflection images SAim1-SAim4 is equal to or less than the brightness of the first maximum image (first skin reflection image SAim1) that represents the first maximum area and equal to or greater than the brightness of the first minimum image (first skin reflection image SAim4) that represents the first minimum area.

[0154] This allows the lighting environment of the shooting location to be adjusted appropriately, making it possible to obtain an appropriate skin image by shooting using light of a specific wavelength.

[0155] <Embodiment 4> In this embodiment, a second example will be described in which an image analyzing device adjusts a predetermined target device based on the results of analyzing a chart image. In this embodiment, an example will be described in which such an image analyzing device is applied in place of the image analyzing device 103 included in the image analysis system 100 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, in this embodiment, explanations that overlap with the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate, and differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described.

[0156] The image analysis device 403 described in this embodiment may be applied in place of the image analysis device 103 included in the image analysis system 200 according to the second embodiment.

[0157] 22 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an image analysis system 400 according to embodiment 4. The image analysis system 400 includes an image analysis device 403 instead of the image analysis device 103. Except for this, the image analysis system 400 may be configured similarly to the image analysis system 100 according to embodiment 1.

[0158] 23 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of an image analysis device 403 according to embodiment 4. The image analysis device 403 includes the same image acquisition unit 104 as in embodiment 1, an analysis unit 405 replacing the analysis unit 105 according to embodiment 1, and an adjustment unit 411.

[0159] The analysis unit 405 analyzes the chart image in the same manner as the analysis unit 105 according to the first embodiment. The analysis unit 405 according to the present embodiment divides the chart image into a plurality of regions, and estimates the lighting environment at the location where the test chart was photographed based on each region.

[0160] In detail, for example, the analysis unit 405 includes a region identification unit 412 and an estimation unit 413 .

[0161] The region specifying unit 412 specifies a first image region and a second image region in the chart image based on predetermined region specifying conditions.

[0162] The area specifying conditions are conditions for specifying, from the chart image, multiple image areas to be used for estimating the lighting environment at the shooting location. The area specifying conditions are determined in relation to at least one of the lighting provided for shooting, the positions of one or more lighting devices provided at the shooting location, and the ambient light at the shooting location.

[0163] The lighting provided for shooting is, for example, the first light 102 according to this embodiment. The one or more lighting devices provided at the shooting location are, for example, an indoor light that illuminates the shooting location if the shooting location is indoors. The ambient light at the shooting location is, for example, sunlight entering the room through a window if the shooting location is indoors. Since the sunlight entering the room through a window may vary depending on the time of day, the region identification condition may include the time of day, and may include, for example, conditions for identifying multiple image regions that differ depending on the time of day.

[0164] The estimation unit 413 estimates the lighting environment at the location where the test chart TC1 was captured, based on each of the first image region and the second image region.

[0165] In more detail, for example, the estimation unit 413 estimates whether each of the first light environment and the second light environment is good or not in light of a predetermined second determination criterion. The first light environment is a light environment corresponding to the first image region. The second light environment is a light environment corresponding to the second image region.

[0166] The second criterion is a criterion for determining whether the lighting environment is good. The second criterion includes, for example, a range of image brightness corresponding to a good lighting environment. If the brightness of an image area is within the range defined by the second criterion, the estimation unit 413 may estimate that the lighting environment corresponding to the image area is good. If the brightness of an image area is outside the range defined by the second criterion, the estimation unit 413 may estimate that the lighting environment corresponding to the image area is not good.

[0167] For example, when determining whether a lighting environment is one that will cause crushed shadows or blown-out highlights in a chart image, the second criterion may be defined using a first threshold and a second threshold similar to the first criterion. In this case, the second criterion may be that the brightness of the image area is less than the first threshold and greater than the second threshold.

[0168] The adjustment unit 411 adjusts a predetermined target device based on the result of analyzing the chart image, similar to the adjustment unit 311 according to the third embodiment. The adjustment unit 411 according to the present embodiment adjusts the target device based on the light environment estimated by the estimation unit 413.

[0169] The image analysis device 403 according to this embodiment may be physically configured in the same manner as the image analysis device 103 according to the first embodiment.

[0170] (Example of image analysis method according to embodiment 4) FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing an example of an image analysis method according to the fourth embodiment.

[0171] When step S101 similar to that of the first embodiment is executed, the analysis unit 405 analyzes the chart image (step S402).

[0172] FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing a detailed example of the analysis process (step S402) according to the fourth embodiment.

[0173] The region specifying unit 412 specifies a first image region and a second image region in the chart image based on predetermined region specifying conditions (step S402a).

[0174] Fig. 26 is a diagram showing a first example of the first image area and the second image area when an area specifying condition is set related to the position where the first light 102 is installed. Fig. 26 shows an example of the first image area and the second image area when the first light 102 irradiates the first wavelength light from the right side of the test chart TC1.

[0175] Fig. 27 is a diagram showing a second example of the first image area and the second image area when an area specifying condition is set related to the position where the first light 102 is installed. Fig. 27 shows an example of the first image area and the second image area when the first light 102 irradiates the first wavelength light from the upper right of the test chart TC1.

[0176] In the examples of FIGS. 26 and 27, the region specifying conditions are, for example, ,blood The region specifying condition includes setting a strip-shaped region of a predetermined width passing through approximately the center of the image of the image approximately perpendicular to the direction in which the first light 102 irradiates the first wavelength light. The region specifying condition also includes specifying a first image region and a second image region on opposite sides of the strip-shaped region.

[0177] In the examples of FIGS. 26 and 27, the first image region and the second image region are partially different from each other, but the first image region and the second image region may be entirely different from each other.

[0178] Referring again to FIG. The estimation unit 413 estimates the lighting environment at the location where the test chart TC1 was photographed based on the first image area and the second image area identified in step S402a (step S402b), and returns to the image analysis process.

[0179] In more detail, for example, the estimation unit 413 calculates the brightness of each of the first image region and the second image region identified in step S402a. The estimation unit 413 estimates the lighting environment at the location where the test chart TC1 was captured based on the brightness of each of the first image region and the second image region and the second criterion.

[0180] If the second criterion is that the brightness of the image region is less than the first threshold and greater than the second threshold, the estimation unit 413 determines whether the brightness of each of the first image region and the second image region is less than the first threshold and greater than the second threshold.

[0181] For example, if the brightness of the first image region is less than the first threshold and greater than the second threshold, the estimation unit 413 determines that there is a low possibility of whiteout, blackout, etc. occurring in the first image region, and therefore estimates that the first light environment corresponding to the first image region is good.

[0182] Furthermore, for example, if the brightness of the first image region is equal to or greater than a first threshold, or if the brightness of the first image region is equal to or less than a second threshold, there is a high possibility that whiteout, blackout, etc. has occurred in the first image region, and therefore the estimation unit 413 estimates that the first light environment corresponding to the first image region is not good.

[0183] The estimation unit 413 also estimates whether the second light environment corresponding to the second image region is good or not based on the brightness of the second image region and the second determination criterion, similar to the first light environment described above.

[0184] Referring again to FIG. The adjustment unit 411 adjusts the predetermined target device based on the result of analyzing the chart image in step S402 (step S403).

[0185] The adjustment unit 411 according to this embodiment adjusts the target device based on the light environment estimated in step S402. This adjustment process (step S403) may take various forms, examples of which will be described below.

[0186] (Example 1 of adjustment processing according to the fourth embodiment) In more detail, for example, it is assumed that one of the first and second light environments is estimated to be good, and the other of the first and second light environments is estimated to be bad. Specifically, for example, it is assumed that the first light environment is estimated to be bad and the second light environment is estimated to be good based on the first and second image areas illustrated in FIG.

[0187] In this case, the adjustment unit 411 may apply the operating conditions of the target device associated with the second light environment, which is one of the light environments, to the operating conditions of the target device associated with the first light environment, which is the other light environment.

[0188] Here, the target device may be set in advance to be associated with the first light environment and the second light environment. For example, if the target device is a lighting device such as an indoor light, the lighting device located to the left of the test chart TC1 may be associated with the first light environment, and the lighting device located to the right of the test chart TC1 may be associated with the second light environment.

[0189] This makes it possible to make the first light environment closer to the second light environment, thereby making the first light environment a good environment.

[0190] (Example 2 of adjustment processing according to the fourth embodiment) In more detail, for example, it is assumed that one of the first and second light environments is estimated to be good, and the other of the first and second light environments is estimated to be bad. Specifically, for example, it is assumed that the first light environment is estimated to be bad and the second light environment is estimated to be good based on the first and second image areas illustrated in FIG.

[0191] In this case, the adjustment unit 411 may adjust the target device so that the first light environment, which is the other light environment, approaches the second light environment, which is one of the light environments. The target device may be set in advance in association with the first light environment and the second light environment, as in the above-described example 1. For example, the adjustment unit 411 may gradually adjust the target device associated with either or both of the first light environment and the second light environment so that the first light environment, which is the other light environment, approaches the second light environment, which is one of the light environments.

[0192] This makes it possible to make the first light environment closer to the second light environment, thereby making the first light environment a good environment.

[0193] In both adjustment process examples 1 and 2, if multiple first lights 102 are provided to illuminate the test chart TC1 from different directions, some or all of the target devices may be multiple first lights 102.

[0194] (Actions and Effects) According to this embodiment, the image analysis device 403 further includes an adjustment unit 411 that adjusts a predetermined target device based on the analysis result of the chart image. The analysis unit 405 includes a region identification unit 412 and an estimation unit 413. The region identification unit 412 identifies a first image region and a second image region of the chart image based on predetermined region identification conditions. The estimation unit 413 estimates the lighting environment at the location where the test chart TC1 was captured based on each of the first image region and the second image region. The adjustment unit 411 adjusts the target device based on the estimated lighting environment.

[0195] This allows the target device to be adjusted to improve the lighting environment corresponding to each of the first and second image regions, thereby enabling appropriate skin images to be obtained by capturing images using light of specific wavelengths.

[0196] According to this embodiment, the area specification conditions are determined in relation to at least one of the lighting provided for photography, the positions of one or more lighting devices provided at the photography location, and the ambient light at the photography location.

[0197] This allows the first and second image regions to be identified according to the shooting environment, the light environment corresponding to each image region to be evaluated, and if the light environment is inappropriate, measures can be taken to make it appropriate. Therefore, it is possible to efficiently obtain appropriate skin images by shooting using light of a specific wavelength.

[0198] According to this embodiment, the estimation unit 413 estimates whether each of the first light environment corresponding to the first image area and the second light environment corresponding to the second image area is good or not, in light of a predetermined determination criterion (second determination criterion). When one of the first light environment and the second light environment is estimated to be good and the other light environment is estimated to be bad, the adjustment unit 411 applies the operating conditions of the target device associated with one light environment to the operating conditions of the target device associated with the other light environment.

[0199] This allows the first light environment to be closer to the second light environment, making the first light environment a better environment. For example, if there are multiple lighting devices as target devices, the effort required to adjust each lighting device can be reduced. Therefore, it becomes possible to efficiently obtain appropriate skin images by capturing images using light of a specific wavelength.

[0200] According to this embodiment, the estimation unit 413 estimates whether a first light environment corresponding to a first image area and a second light environment corresponding to a second image area are each good or bad, in light of a predetermined criterion (second criterion). When one of the first light environment and the second light environment is estimated to be good and the other light environment is estimated to be bad, the adjustment unit 411 adjusts the target device so that the other light environment approaches the one light environment.

[0201] This allows the first light environment to be closer to the second light environment, making the first light environment a better environment. For example, if there are multiple lighting devices as target devices, the effort required to adjust each lighting device can be reduced. Therefore, it becomes possible to efficiently obtain appropriate skin images by capturing images using light of a specific wavelength.

[0202] <Embodiment 5> In this embodiment, an example will be described in which the test chart includes a plurality of gray areas for evaluating the dynamic range of a chart image, where the plurality of gray areas includes a plurality of first gray areas and a plurality of second gray areas.

[0203] In this embodiment, an example will be described in which such a test chart is applied in place of the test chart TC1 included in the image analysis system 100 according to embodiment 1. Therefore, in this embodiment, explanations that overlap with embodiment 1 will be omitted as appropriate, and differences from embodiment 1 will be mainly described.

[0204] The test chart TC3 described in this embodiment may be used in place of the test charts TC1 and TC2 included in the image analysis systems 200, 300, and 400 according to embodiments other than embodiment 1. The multiple gray areas may include only one of the first gray areas GLA1 to GLA10 and the second gray areas GLB1 to GLB10.

[0205] 28 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a test chart TC3 according to embodiment 5. Test chart TC3 includes a sheet material ST and a plurality of first skin reflective areas SA1-SA4 similar to those in embodiment 1, and a plurality of second skin reflective areas SB1-SB4 similar to those in embodiment 2. Furthermore, test chart TC3 includes a plurality of first gray areas GLA1-GLA10 and a plurality of second gray areas GLB1-GLB10.

[0206] In detail, the test chart TC3 includes a sheet material ST and a first area SA similar to those in the first embodiment, a second area SB similar to those in the second embodiment, and a third area GLA and a fourth area GLB appropriately set on one main surface of the sheet material ST. That is, the third area GLA and the fourth area GLB are set on the same main surface as the one main surface on which the first area SA and the second area SB are set.

[0207] A plurality of first gray areas GLA1 to GLA10 are formed in the third area GLA. Each of the plurality of first gray areas GLA1 to GLA10 indicates the reflectance (unit: %) of the skin for the first wavelength light and the second wavelength light. The first gray areas GLA1 to GLA10 are also called color charts or patches.

[0208] The first gray areas GLA1 to GLA10 show different shades of black and white, and are arranged in order of shade so that the shades they show change at a constant rate.

[0209] In the example shown in Fig. 28, the first gray areas GLA1 to GLA10 are gray areas with reflectances of 90%, 80%, 70%, 60%, 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, 10%, and 5%, respectively. The first gray areas GLA1 to GLA10 are arranged at equal intervals in the horizontal direction so that they become gradually darker (reflectance decreases) from left to right in Fig. 28.

[0210] Note that the difference in darkness between GLA9 and GLA10 is 5%, which is different from the difference in darkness between the other adjacent first gray areas GLA1 to GLA9 (10%). This is due to manufacturing constraints, and this is an example of the first gray area GLA10 having a reflectance close to 0%.

[0211] A plurality of second gray areas GLB1 to GLB10 are formed in the fourth area GLB. Each of the plurality of second gray areas GLB1 to GLB10 indicates the reflectance (unit: %) of the skin for the first wavelength light and the second wavelength light. The second gray areas GLB1 to GLB10 are also referred to as color charts or patches.

[0212] The second gray areas GLB1-GLB10 show shades corresponding to the shades shown by each of the multiple first gray areas GLA1-GLA10. Therefore, the multiple first gray areas GLA1-GLA10 and the multiple second gray areas GLB1-GLB10 include multiple combinations of first gray areas and second gray areas showing the same shade (for example, GLA1 and GLB1, GLA2 and GLB2, GLA3 and GLB3, etc.).

[0213] The first gray areas GLA1-GLA10 and second gray areas GLB1-GLB10, which show corresponding shades, are formed in positions symmetrical with respect to a common point C. For example, GLA1 and GLB1, GLA2 and GLB2, GLA3 and GLB3, etc. are formed in positions equidistant from each other in opposite directions with respect to the common point C. As a result, the second gray areas GLB1-GLB10 are arranged in the opposite order of shade to the multiple first gray areas GLA1-GLA10, so that the shades they show change constantly.

[0214] Point C is, for example, the center of the sheet material ST, but is not limited to this.

[0215] In the example shown in FIG. 28, the second gray areas GLB1 to GLB10 are gray areas with reflectances of 90%, 80%, 70%, 60%, 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, 10%, and 5%, respectively.

[0216] Second gray area GLB1~GLB10 are arranged at equal intervals in the horizontal direction so that they become gradually darker (the reflectance decreases) from right to left in FIG. Second gray area GLB1~GLB10 They are arranged horizontally in the opposite order of darkness.

[0217] The plurality of first skin reflective areas SA1 to SA4 and SB1 to SB4 and the plurality of second skin reflective areas SB1 to SB4 are formed between the plurality of first gray areas GLA1 to GLA10 and the plurality of second gray areas GLB1 to GLB10.

[0218] There are various methods for manufacturing the test chart TC3, and for example, it can be manufactured in the same manner as the test charts TC1 and TC2 according to the first or second embodiment. That is, when manufacturing the test chart TC3, the worker prepares a plurality of pieces of paper that form the plurality of first skin reflective areas SA1-SA4 and the plurality of second skin reflective areas SB1-SB4. In addition to these, the worker prepares a plurality of pieces of paper that form the plurality of first gray areas GLA1-GLA10 and the plurality of second gray areas GLB1-GLB10. Then, paste each piece of paper onto the backing. The worker may then prepare a piece of black cardboard the same size as the mount and cut out areas corresponding to the multiple pieces of paper attached to the mount (i.e., the multiple first skin reflective areas SA1-SA4, the multiple second skin reflective areas SB1-SB4, the multiple first gray areas GLA1-GLA10, and the multiple second gray areas GLB1-GLB10). The worker may then attach the black cardboard to the mount with the multiple pieces of paper attached. The multiple pieces of paper that form the first gray areas GLA1-GLA10 and the second gray areas GLB1-GLB10 may be coated with, for example, paint that provides a substantially constant reflectance to near-infrared light including first wavelength light and second wavelength light.

[0219] 29 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an image analysis system 500 according to embodiment 5. The image analysis system 500 includes an image analysis device 503 instead of the image analysis device 103 according to embodiment 1. Except for this point, the image analysis system 500 may be configured similarly to the image analysis system 100 according to embodiment 1.

[0220] Since the test chart TC3 includes a plurality of second skin reflection areas SB1 to SB4, the image analysis system 500 may include the second light 202 according to the second embodiment instead of the first light 102.

[0221] 30 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of an image analyzing device 503 according to embodiment 5. The image analyzing device 503 functionally includes, for example, the image acquiring unit 104, an analyzing unit 505, and an adjusting unit 511 similar to those in embodiment 1.

[0222] The analysis unit 505 analyzes the chart image in the same manner as in the first embodiment. The analysis unit 105 functionally includes the region identification unit 412 and the estimation unit 513, which are the same as those in the fourth embodiment.

[0223] The estimation unit 513 estimates the lighting environment at the location where the test chart TC3 was captured, based on each of the first image region and the second image region.

[0224] In more detail, for example, the estimation unit 413 estimates whether the lighting environment includes oblique light based on the brightness of a group of gray images included in at least one of the first image region and the second image region. The group of gray images is an image that shows each of a plurality of first gray regions and a plurality of second gray regions in a chart image.

[0225] The estimation unit 413 estimates that the lighting environment includes oblique light when the brightness of the gray image group does not correspond to the darkness of the corresponding first gray areas GLA1 to GLA10 and second gray areas GLB1 to GLB10.

[0226] The adjustment unit 511 is 3 Similar to the adjustment unit 311 according to the first embodiment, the adjustment unit 511 adjusts the predetermined target device based on the result of analyzing the chart image. The adjustment unit 511 according to the present embodiment adjusts the target device based on the lighting environment estimated by the estimation unit 513.

[0227] For example, if the estimation unit 513 estimates that the lighting environment includes oblique light, the brightness of the chart image may be uneven due to the oblique light. Therefore, the adjustment unit 511 adjusts the target device so that the brightness of the chart image becomes uniform, for example.

[0228] The image analysis device 503 according to this embodiment may be physically configured in the same manner as the image analysis device 103 according to the first embodiment.

[0229] (Example of image analysis method according to embodiment 5) FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing an example of an image analysis method according to the fifth embodiment.

[0230] When step S101 similar to that of the first embodiment is executed, the analysis unit 505 analyzes the chart image (step S502).

[0231] FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing a detailed example of the analysis process (step S502) according to the fifth embodiment.

[0232] The region identifying unit 412 executes step S402a similar to that in the fourth embodiment.

[0233] Fig. 33 is a diagram showing a third example of the first image area and the second image area when an area specifying condition is set related to the position where the first light 102 is installed. Fig. 33 shows an example of the first image area and the second image area when the first light 102 irradiates the first wavelength light from the upper right of the test chart TC3.

[0234] In the figure, first skin reflection images SAim1-SAim4 are image portions that represent the first skin reflection areas SA1-SA4, respectively, in the chart image of test chart TC3, as described in embodiment 1. Second skin reflection images SBim1-SBim4 are image portions that represent the second skin reflection areas SB1-SB4, respectively, in the chart image of test chart TC3.

[0235] In the figure, first gray images GLAim1-GLAim10 are image portions that represent the first gray areas GLA1-GLA10, respectively, in the chart image of test chart TC3. Second gray images GLBim1-GLBim10 are image portions that represent the second gray areas GLB1-GLB10, respectively, in the chart image of test chart TC3.

[0236] In test chart TC3, the first gray areas GLA1-GLA10 and second gray areas GLB1-GLB10, which indicate corresponding darknesses, are formed at positions symmetrical with respect to a common point C. Therefore, as shown in Fig. 33, each of the first image area and second image area includes an image of the darkest gray area and an image of the lightest gray area among the multiple first gray areas GLA1-GLA10 and multiple second gray areas GLB1-GLB10.

[0237] The images of the darkest gray areas are the image of the first gray area GLA1 (first gray image GLAim10) and the image of the second gray area GLB1 0 The image of the lightest gray area is the first gray area GLA 1 of Image (first gray image GLAim1) and second gray area GLB 1 of Image (second grayscale image GLBim1).

[0238] In this embodiment, the first image region includes one image of the darkest gray region (second gray image GLBim10) and one image of the lightest gray region (first gray image GLAim1). The second image region includes the other image of the darkest gray region (first gray image GLAim10) and the other image of the lightest gray region (second gray image GLBim1).

[0239] Furthermore, in this embodiment, each of the first image region and the second image region includes gray images of the respective densities indicated by the plurality of first gray regions GLA1 to GLA10 and the plurality of second gray regions GLB1 to GLB10.

[0240] That is, the first image area includes first grayscale images GLAim1-GLAim3 and second grayscale images GLBim4-GLBim10 as images of grayscale areas with reflectances of 90%, 80%, 70%, 60%, 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, 10%, and 5%. The second image area includes second grayscale images GLBim1-GLBim3 and first grayscale images GLAim4-GLAim10 as images of grayscale areas with reflectances of 90%, 80%, 70%, 60%, 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, 10%, and 5%.

[0241] Referring again to FIG. The estimation unit 513 estimates the lighting environment at the location where the test chart TC3 was photographed based on the first image area and the second image area identified in step S402a (step S502b), and the process returns to the image analysis process.

[0242] The estimation unit 513 according to this embodiment estimates that the lighting environment includes oblique light when the brightness of the gray image group is not in accordance with the darkness of the corresponding first gray areas GLA1 to GLA10 and second gray areas GLB1 to GLB10.

[0243] For example, the estimation unit 513 estimates whether the lighting environment includes oblique light based on the image of the darkest gray area and the image of the lightest gray area included in each of the first image area and the second image area. In detail, for example, if blown-out highlights or crushed shadows occur in the image of the darkest gray area and the image of the lightest gray area included in only one of the first image area and the second image area, the estimation unit 513 estimates that the lighting environment includes oblique light.

[0244] Furthermore, for example, the estimation unit 513 estimates whether or not the lighting environment includes oblique light based on whether or not the difference in brightness between adjacent gray images is constant for each of the first image region and the second image region.

[0245] In this embodiment, as described above, the difference in reflectance between adjacent first gray areas GLA1-GLA10 is constant, so in the absence of oblique light, the difference in brightness between adjacent first gray images GLAim1-GLAim10 will be roughly constant. Similarly, as described above, the difference in reflectance between adjacent second gray areas GLB1-GLB10 is constant, so in the absence of oblique light, the difference in brightness between adjacent second gray images GLBim1-GLBim10 will be roughly constant.

[0246] Therefore, the estimation unit 513 estimates that the lighting environment includes oblique light when, for example, the difference in brightness between adjacent gray images is not constant in at least one of the first image region and the second image region. The estimation unit 513 estimates that the lighting environment does not include oblique light when, for example, the difference in brightness between adjacent gray images is constant in both the first image region and the second image region.

[0247] Referring again to FIG. The adjustment unit 511 adjusts the predetermined target device based on the result of analyzing the chart image in step S502 (step S503).

[0248] In detail, for example, when it is estimated in step S502 that the lighting environment includes oblique light, the adjustment unit 511 adjusts the target device so that the brightness of the chart image is uniform. For example, the adjustment unit 511 adjusts the target device associated with a bright image region of the first image region and the second image region so as to darken the image region that is bright due to oblique light. Also, for example, the adjustment unit 511 adjusts the target device associated with a dark image region of the first image region and the second image region so as to brighten the image region that is dark due to oblique light.

[0249] In more detail, for example, if it is estimated in step S502 that the lighting environment does not include oblique light, the adjustment unit 511 adjusts the first grayscale image GLA im1 ~GLA imBased on the grayscale images GLBim10 and GLBim1 to GLBim10, the photographing conditions of the camera 101 are adjusted so as to obtain an appropriate dynamic range that satisfies predetermined conditions.

[0250] In the image analysis process according to this embodiment, when the lighting environment includes oblique light, the target device can be adjusted to reduce the effect of oblique light on the chart image, making it possible to obtain an appropriate skin image by capturing an image using light of a specific wavelength.

[0251] Furthermore, if the lighting environment does not include oblique light, the dynamic range can be adjusted, which also makes it possible to obtain an appropriate skin image by photographing using light of a specific wavelength.

[0252] (Actions and Effects) According to this embodiment, the test chart TC3 further includes a plurality of first gray areas GLA1 to GLA10 that are formed side by side on the sheet material ST and that exhibit different shadings.

[0253] As a result, the first grayscale images GLAim1 to GLAim10 can be used to evaluate and adjust the gradation of the camera 101. Furthermore, the first skin reflection images SAim1 to SAim4 or the second skin reflection images SBim1 to SBim4 can be used to evaluate or determine whether a good enough image of human skin to be used for facial recognition or the like can be obtained. That is, using a single test chart TC3, it is possible to evaluate and adjust the gradation of the camera 101 and evaluate or determine whether a good image of human skin can be obtained. Therefore, it is possible to obtain an appropriate skin image by photographing using light of a specific wavelength more easily than, for example, when separate test charts are used for evaluating the gradation of the camera 101 and the image of human skin.

[0254] According to this embodiment, the test chart TC3 is formed on a sheet material ST and further includes a plurality of second gray areas GLB1-GLB10 that exhibit darkness levels corresponding to the darkness levels of the plurality of first gray areas GLA1-GLA10. The plurality of first gray areas GLA1-GLA10 are arranged in order of darkness level so that the darkness levels of the respective first gray areas vary by a fixed amount. The first gray areas and second gray areas that exhibit corresponding darkness levels are formed symmetrically with respect to a common point C.

[0255] This makes it easy to include gray images of the respective densities indicated by the multiple first gray areas GLA1-GLA10 and the multiple second gray areas GLB1-GLB10 in each of the first image area and the second image area. Therefore, it becomes easy to estimate whether the lighting environment includes oblique light based on whether the difference in brightness between adjacent gray images is constant. Therefore, it becomes easy to obtain an appropriate skin image by capturing an image using light of a specific wavelength.

[0256] According to this embodiment, the plurality of first skin reflective areas SA1 to SA4 and the plurality of second skin reflective areas SB1 to SB4 are formed between the plurality of first gray areas GLA1 to GLA10 and the plurality of second gray areas GLB1 to GLB10.

[0257] This allows a single test chart TC3 to be used to evaluate and adjust the gradation of the camera 101 and to evaluate or determine whether a good image of human skin can be obtained. Therefore, it becomes easier to obtain a good skin image by photographing using light of a specific wavelength than when, for example, separate test charts are used for evaluating the gradation of the camera 101 and the image of human skin.

[0258] According to this embodiment, the test chart TC3 includes a plurality of first gray areas GLA1-GLA10 and a plurality of second gray areas GLB1-GLB10. The plurality of first gray areas GLA1-GLA10 are formed on a sheet material ST and exhibit different shades. The plurality of second gray areas GLB1-GLB10 are formed on a sheet material ST and exhibit shades corresponding to the shades exhibited by the plurality of first gray areas GLA1-GLA10. The plurality of first gray areas GLA1-GLA10 are arranged in order of shade so that the shades exhibited by each area vary by a fixed amount. The first gray areas and second gray areas exhibiting corresponding shades are formed symmetrically with respect to a common point C.

[0259] Furthermore, the estimation unit 513 estimates that the lighting environment includes oblique light when a group of the gray images GLAim1-GLAim10 and GLBim1-GLBim10 included in at least one of the first image area and the second image area does not have brightness corresponding to the darkness of the corresponding first gray areas GLA1-GLA10 and second gray areas GLB1-GLB10. The gray images GLAim1-GLAim10 and GLBim1-GLBim10 represent the first gray areas GLA1-GLA10 and second gray areas GLB1-GLB10, respectively, in the chart image.

[0260] This makes it possible to determine whether the lighting environment of the shooting location includes oblique light, and if so, to take appropriate measures. Therefore, it becomes possible to obtain appropriate skin images by shooting using light of a specific wavelength.

[0261] The first image area and the second image area each include an image of the darkest gray area and an image of the lightest gray area among the plurality of first gray areas GLA1 to GLA10 and the plurality of second gray areas GLB1 to GLB10.

[0262] This makes it possible to estimate whether the lighting environment includes oblique light, and if the lighting environment of the shooting location includes oblique light, it is possible to take appropriate measures. Therefore, it becomes possible to obtain an appropriate skin image by shooting using light of a specific wavelength.

[0263] Although the embodiments and modifications of the present disclosure have been described above with reference to the drawings, these are merely examples of the present disclosure, and various configurations other than those described above can also be adopted.

[0264] In addition, although the flowcharts used in the above description show multiple steps (processes) in a sequential order, the order of steps performed in each embodiment is not limited to the order shown. In each embodiment, the order of the steps shown in the drawings can be changed as long as it does not cause any problems in terms of content. Furthermore, the above-described embodiments and variations can be combined as long as the content is not contradictory.

[0265] A part or all of the above-described embodiments can be described as, but not limited to, the following supplementary notes.

[0266] 1. A sheet material; a plurality of first skin reflective areas formed on the sheet material; Each of the plurality of first skin reflective regions indicates a reflectance of skin to light of a first wavelength. Test chart. 2. The sheet material further includes a plurality of second skin reflective areas formed thereon; Each of the plurality of second skin reflective regions indicates a reflectance of the skin with respect to light at a second wavelength. 1. Test chart described above. 3. The plurality of first skin reflective regions include a first maximum region that exhibits a maximum reflectance of skin to the first wavelength light and a first minimum region that exhibits a minimum reflectance of skin to the first wavelength light; The plurality of second skin reflective regions include a second maximum region that exhibits a maximum reflectance of the skin to the second wavelength light, and a second minimum region that exhibits a minimum reflectance of the skin to the second wavelength light. 2. Test chart described above. 4. Each of the first wavelength light and the second wavelength light is near-infrared light. The test chart according to 2. or 3. 5. The sheet material further includes a plurality of first gray areas formed side by side and exhibiting different shadings. 4. A test chart according to any one of 2. to 4. 6. The sheet material further includes a plurality of second gray areas formed on the sheet material and exhibiting shades corresponding to the shades exhibited by the plurality of first gray areas; the plurality of first gray areas are arranged in order of their respective shadings so that the shadings they represent vary by a fixed amount; The first gray area and the second gray area, which show corresponding shades, are formed at positions symmetrical with respect to a common point. 5. Test chart described above. 7. The plurality of first skin reflective areas and the plurality of second skin reflective areas are formed between the plurality of first gray areas and the plurality of second gray areas. 6. Test chart described above. 8. Image acquisition means for acquiring a chart image obtained by photographing the test chart; an analysis means for analyzing the chart image, The test chart is Sheet material; a plurality of first skin reflective areas formed on the sheet material; Each of the plurality of first skin reflective regions indicates a reflectance of skin to light of a first wavelength. Image analysis device. 9. The apparatus further comprises an adjustment unit for adjusting a predetermined target device based on the analysis result of the chart image, the analyzing means determines brightness of a plurality of first skin reflection images that indicate each of the plurality of first skin reflection regions; The adjustment means adjusts the target device so that the brightness of the plurality of first skin reflection images is equal to or less than the brightness of a first maximum image representing a first maximum area and equal to or greater than the brightness of a first minimum image representing a first minimum area. 8. The image analysis device according to claim 8. 10. The apparatus further comprises an adjustment unit for adjusting a predetermined target device based on the result of analyzing the chart image, The analysis means an area specifying means for specifying a first image area and a second image area in the chart image based on a predetermined area specifying condition; an estimation means for estimating a lighting environment at a location where the test chart is photographed based on each of the first image area and the second image area, The adjustment means adjusts the target device based on the estimated lighting environment. 8. The image analysis device according to claim 8. 11. The area specifying conditions are determined in relation to at least one of lighting provided for photography, the positions of one or more lighting devices provided at the photography location, and ambient light at the photography location. 10. An image analysis device according to claim 10. 12. The estimation means estimates whether a first light environment corresponding to the first image area and a second light environment corresponding to the second image area are good or not in light of a predetermined judgment criterion; When one of the first light environment and the second light environment is estimated to be good and the other light environment is estimated to be bad, the adjustment means applies the operating conditions of the target device associated with the one light environment to the operating conditions of the target device associated with the other light environment. 10. The image analysis device according to claim 11. 13. The estimation means estimates whether a first light environment corresponding to the first image area and a second light environment corresponding to the second image area are good or not in light of a predetermined judgment criterion; When one of the first light environment and the second light environment is estimated to be good and the other light environment is estimated to be bad, the adjustment means adjusts the target device so that the other light environment approaches the one light environment. 10. The image analysis device according to claim 11. 14. The test chart is a plurality of first gray areas formed on the sheet material and exhibiting different shadings; a plurality of second gray areas formed on the sheet material and exhibiting shades corresponding to the shades exhibited by the plurality of first gray areas, the plurality of first gray areas are arranged in order of their respective shadings so that the shadings they represent vary by a fixed amount; The first gray area and the second gray area, which show corresponding shades, are formed at positions symmetrical with respect to a common point, The estimation means estimates that the light environment includes oblique light when a group of gray images included in at least one of the first image area and the second image area, among a plurality of gray images showing the plurality of first gray areas and the plurality of second gray areas in the chart image, does not have brightness corresponding to the darkness of the corresponding plurality of first gray areas and the corresponding plurality of second gray areas. 10. An image analysis device according to claim 10. 15. The first image area and the second image area each include an image of the darkest gray area and an image of the lightest gray area of ​​the plurality of first gray areas and the plurality of second gray areas. 14. An image analysis device according to claim 14. 16. The image processing device further includes a display control means for generating a display image in which the analysis result of the chart image is superimposed on the chart image, and for displaying the display image on a display means. An image analysis device according to any one of 8. to 15. 17. Test chart and a camera that captures an image of the test chart and generates a chart image; a first light that irradiates the test chart with light of a first wavelength; an image analysis device, The test chart is Sheet material; a plurality of first skin reflective areas formed on the sheet material; each of the plurality of first skin reflective regions indicates a reflectance of skin with respect to the first wavelength light; The image analysis device an image acquisition means for acquiring a chart image obtained by photographing the test chart; and an analysis means for analyzing the chart image. Image analysis system. 18. One or more computers Acquire the chart image obtained by photographing the test chart, analyzing the chart image; The test chart is Sheet material; a plurality of first skin reflective areas formed on the sheet material; Each of the plurality of first skin reflective regions indicates a reflectance of skin to light of a first wavelength. Image analysis methods. 19. To the computer, Acquire the chart image obtained by photographing the test chart, a program for executing analysis of the chart image, The test chart is Sheet material; a plurality of first skin reflective areas formed on the sheet material; Each of the plurality of first skin reflective regions indicates a reflectance of skin to light of a first wavelength. A recording medium on which a program is recorded. [Explanation of symbols]

[0267] 100,200,300,400,500 Image analysis system 101 Camera 102 First Light 103,303,403,503 Image analysis equipment 104 Image acquisition unit 105,305,405,505 Analysis Department 106 Display section 107 Display control unit 108 Brightness acquisition unit 109 Judgment section 111a~111d,211a~211d Display image 202 Second Light 311,411 Adjustment section 412 Area identification part 413,513 Estimation Department TC1, TC2, TC3 test charts ST sheet material SA1~SA4 1st skin reflection area SB1~SB4 2nd skin reflection area SAim1~SAim4 1st skin reflection image SBim1~SBim4 Second skin reflection image GLA1~GLA10 First Gray Area GLB1~GLB10 Second Gray Area GLAim1~GLAim10 1st gray image GLBim1~GLBim10 2nd gray image

Claims

1. Sheet material; a plurality of first skin reflective areas formed on the sheet material; each of the plurality of first skin reflective regions exhibits a reflectance of skin with respect to first wavelength light; The plurality of first skin reflective regions include a first maximum region that indicates a maximum reflectance of the skin to the first wavelength light, and a first minimum region that indicates a minimum reflectance of the skin to the first wavelength light. Test chart.

2. Further, a plurality of second skin reflective areas are formed on the sheet material, each of the plurality of second skin reflective regions exhibits a reflectance of skin with respect to second wavelength light; The plurality of second skin reflective regions include a second maximum region that indicates a maximum reflectance of the skin to the second wavelength light, and a second minimum region that indicates a minimum reflectance of the skin to the second wavelength light. The test chart according to claim 1 .

3. The first wavelength light is near-infrared light.

3. The test chart according to claim 1.

4. The second wavelength light is near-infrared light having a wavelength different from that of the first wavelength light. The test chart according to claim 2 .

5. an image acquisition means for acquiring a chart image obtained by photographing a test chart; an analysis means for analyzing the chart image, The test chart is Sheet material; a plurality of first skin reflective areas formed on the sheet material; each of the plurality of first skin reflective regions exhibits a reflectance of skin with respect to first wavelength light; further comprising an adjustment unit that adjusts a predetermined target device based on the analysis result of the chart image; the analyzing means determines brightness of a plurality of first skin reflection images that indicate the plurality of first skin reflection regions, The adjustment means adjusts the target device so that the brightness of the plurality of first skin reflection images is equal to or less than the brightness of a first maximum image representing a first maximum area and equal to or greater than the brightness of a first minimum image representing a first minimum area. Image analysis device.

6. The analysis means further comprises: an area specifying means for specifying a first image area and a second image area of ​​the chart image based on a predetermined area specifying condition; an estimation unit that estimates a lighting environment at a location where the test chart is photographed based on each of the first image area and the second image area, The adjustment means further adjusts the target device based on the estimated lighting environment. The image analysis device according to claim 5 .

7. A test chart and a camera that captures an image of the test chart and generates a chart image; a first light that irradiates the test chart with light of a first wavelength; an image analysis device, The test chart is Sheet material; a plurality of first skin reflective areas formed on the sheet material; each of the plurality of first skin reflective regions exhibits a reflectance of skin with respect to the first wavelength light; The image analysis device an image acquisition means for acquiring a chart image obtained by photographing the test chart; and an analysis means for analyzing the chart image. Image analysis system.

8. One or more computers Acquire the chart image obtained by photographing the test chart, analyzing the chart image; The test chart is Sheet material; a plurality of first skin reflective areas formed on the sheet material; each of the plurality of first skin reflective regions exhibits a reflectance of skin with respect to first wavelength light; The plurality of first skin reflective regions include a first maximum region that indicates a maximum reflectance of the skin to the first wavelength light, and a first minimum region that indicates a minimum reflectance of the skin to the first wavelength light. Image analysis methods.

9. On the computer, Acquire the chart image obtained by photographing the test chart, a program for executing analysis of the chart image, The test chart is Sheet material; a plurality of first skin reflective areas formed on the sheet material; each of the plurality of first skin reflective regions exhibits a reflectance of skin with respect to first wavelength light; The plurality of first skin reflective regions include a first maximum region that indicates a maximum reflectance of the skin to the first wavelength light, and a first minimum region that indicates a minimum reflectance of the skin to the first wavelength light. program.

Images