EP1645131A2

EP1645131A2 - Multimedia data recording apparatus

Info

Publication number: EP1645131A2
Application number: EP04767354A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Daniel Armand
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2003-06-16
Filing date: 2004-06-16
Publication date: 2006-04-12
Also published as: WO2004114654A3; WO2004114654A2

Abstract

The invention relates to a multimedia data recording apparatus which is associated with a multimedia data capture device. The inventive apparatus comprises: data storage means for storing data delivered by the multimedia data capture device, and a unit for processing said data for the conversion thereof into a format suitable for the storage of same in the data storage means. According to the invention, the data storage means comprise: first data storage means for the temporary and continuous storage of the data delivered by the multimedia data capture device, and second data storage means for the permanent storage of the data stored temporarily in the aforementioned first storage means.

Description

MULTIMEDIA DATA RECORDING APPARATUS.

The present invention relates to a multimedia data recording device as well as to various applications of this device.

1 / Prior art:

Apparatuses for recording multimedia data, in particular images and / or sounds, are known, comprising a device for taking pictures and / or sounds, means for storing the data delivered by the device for taking pictures and / or sound and a unit for processing said data with a view to converting them into a format suitable for storage in the storage means.

These recording devices continuously record images and / or sounds relating to a scene located in the field of the camera and / or sounds as soon as the recording command is engaged.

The present invention results from the observation that, in scenes of daily life, or of sporting or cultural events, certain sequences relating to a particular event are of greater interest than others. By their nature, known recording devices allow the recording of all the events of a scene, provided that they have been put into service at the right time. However, they have a certain number of drawbacks, in particular due to the fact that they necessarily record events of lesser interest and that they require the use of very large storage means and due to the fact that certain events are appreciated afterwards and of great interest, escape the operator due to a lack of appreciation, vigilance, anticipation, ...

The object of the invention is to overcome these drawbacks and to provide an image and / or sound recording device allowing the recording of events selected by a user and relating to sequences prior to a storage sequence, etc. , using low capacity storage means.

Another object of the invention is to provide applications specially adapted for the use of such an apparatus. It therefore relates to an image and / or sound recording device, characterized in that the storage means comprise first means for temporary and continuous storage of data delivered by the camera and / or of sounds and second permanent storage means of data temporarily stored in said first storage means, and in that it comprises means for selective transfer of data from said first storage means to said second storage means, with a view to the permanent recording of at least one sequence relating to a scene captured by the image and / or sound recording device and temporarily stored in the first storage means.

The invention may also include one or more of the following characteristics: the first storage means consist of a random access memory, in particular of the FIFO type

the second storage means are constituted by a modular set of random access memories each adapted to the storage of sequences relating to the same scene the data processing unit comprises an analog-digital converter connected to a data compression circuit in view their storage in said first storage means; the recording apparatus further comprises means for reading the data stored in said second storage means and a member for presenting to a user said data read by said reading means

the reading means comprise a circuit for decompressing the data read by said reading means with a view to their presentation to the user;

- The recording device also comprises means for controlling said transfer means which can be actuated manually by a user attending said scene captured beforehand by the device for taking pictures and / or sounds with a view to recording said at minus a scene;

the stopping of the transfer of data being caused manually by the user, the recording apparatus comprises means for delaying the stopping of said transfer of said data from the first storage means to said second storage means

- The recording device further comprises automatic means for controlling the transfer means for the automatic recording of said at least one scene. The invention also relates to applications which result from analyzes specific to each application of a housing according to the invention.

In fact, these applications can be used in combination or independently of each other. 1 ^st embodiment of the invention:

A first aspect of the invention results from an observation specific to this first aspect, described in detail below: There are known apparatuses for recording images and / or sounds, of the cameras, camcorders, etc. type. equipped and equipped with peripheral VHF, UHF and other formats for long-range television broadcasting.

In this area, the most well-known applications relate to the world of television and radio, which is played by both amateurs and professionals, in particular for leisure and even surveillance purposes.

The retrieval of this information by viewers and / or listeners and / or other professionals requires specific devices such as televisions, video recorders, tape recorders, camcorders, cassettes in various formats, flash memories, computers and centralized or decentralized hard drives which allow viewing. or even the recording of the transmitted sequences, by consuming more or less significant quantities of recording media.

New generation radio and telephone means of communication are equally well known capable of transmitting and receiving image and / or sound information from an integrated or remote, manual and / or automatic control.

It sometimes happens that the recording media are saturated, preserved or even erased cyclically, sporadically, in order to allow the recording of new sequences according to the same process, in order to fill the spaces deemed afterwards uninteresting, already viewed or auditioned, even useless. faced with the glut of recordings made.

On the other hand, as we have seen, these recording means require heavy infrastructure as much in terms of technical means constituting the communication chain, as of specific recording devices, or even human resources and associated complex machines driving, or even mixing information and data from each of these specific devices.

In regular use, it often happens that an event escapes the attention of the source authorized to register it due to a lack of attention, vigilance, appreciation, anticipation, preparation.

This is all the more frustrating when the means were in place, capable of being mobilized and / or operational, but not depending on the place and at the precise moment when the event appreciated afterwards occurred.

Given the financial resources mobilized and even the economic stakes, the fact of having no trace of an event deemed important or even worthy of an afterthought accentuates frustration if not anger.

Furthermore, in the case of mobility of the camera, and / or mobility of the person likely to deliver relevant information, the complexity of the means to be mobilized increases, without obtaining certainty as to the relevance and the interest of the information that we will collect.

Due to the extremely heavy and important means to mobilize, choices on the advisability of allocating means for surveillance and / or control are very often decided on essentially financial criteria.

Beyond the financial aspect, the transmission of video sequences from mobile to mobile quickly imposes the greatest selectivity of information with regard to the means of transmission and storage required. It is therefore, for the sake of optimizing resources and efficiency, communicating relevant information when it comes to exchanging from mobile to mobile.

The relevance of information is often appreciated after the fact, and as such, worthy of interest, there are no means of simple implementation, capable of collecting only the essentials on the said circumstances of this accident in the immediate past.

The purpose of this first application of the invention is to respond to the listed dissatisfactions, to overcome these drawbacks and to provide, in a small volume, therefore easily transportable and therefore mobile, even in a fixed position and easily installed, a device for 'recording and transmission of images and / or sounds capable of recording and transmitting events and sequences relating to facts prior to a decision to record, therefore assessed as relevant for having experienced and / or seen them, in using capacity storage means adapted to these preliminary stealthy moments preceding the recording decision with a view to transmitting them to interlocutors likely to be mobile.

This is why this first aspect of the invention relates to a system comprising an image and / or sound recording apparatus, as defined above, allowing an operator to trigger a capture of a video sequence in all. or part prior to the triggering of the capture, in particular a video sequence representing the moments preceding and following the fall of a hiker in the mountains or the assault of a person on a train.

The recording system comprising: - a first terminal equipped with video capture means, in particular a mobile telephone incorporating a video camera. The video capture means are intended to capture video sequences, in particular sequences relating to a surveillance object such as a specific person or place. The first terminal includes:

- first storage means, intended to store continuously and temporarily the video sequences thus captured. The first storage means comprise a volatile memory area with a capacity suitable for storing sliding fractions and of fixed duration of the video sequences thus captured. The storage is in particular carried out according to a FIFO procedure (first input first output).

The first terminal further comprises: - a control member making it possible to:

Select a particular video sequence from the video sequences thus memorized by the first memory means, in particular the images of the moments preceding and following the fall of a hiker in the mountains or the assault of a person on a train,

• transfer the particular video sequence to second storage means of the first terminal, intended to permanently store, in whole or in part, the particular video sequence thus selected. The first terminal also includes:

a first transmission and reception module, in particular of the telephone type, for connecting the first terminal to a communication network, in particular to a mobile telephone network. The recording system further comprises a second terminal, in particular a mobile telephone, remote from the first terminal. The second terminal comprises: a second transmission and reception module, in particular of the telephone type, for connecting the second terminal to the first terminal, in particular via the mobile telephone network.

The first transmission and reception module transmits to the second transmission and reception module of the second terminal, via the communication network, the particular video sequence thus stored.

The recording system further comprising playback means, in particular located in the second terminal, making it possible to view the particular video sequence thus memorized by the second storage means. Thus, the capture of the particularly interesting video sequence is remotely controlled, stored and then transferred via the communication network with a view to being viewed and analyzed remotely. Preferably, the recording system further comprises:

- connection means for connecting the first terminal to a sensor, in particular a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, a building alarm, - reception means, associated with the connection means, intended to receive information from the sensor alert, in particular the triggering of a building alarm, an alert linked to an abnormal temperature or pressure, control means, activated automatically by the reception means, according to the alert information. The control means make it possible to:

Automatically select a second particular video sequence from the video sequences thus memorized by the first storage means, in particular a video sequence starting one minute before and ending one minute after receipt of said alert information,

• order a transfer of the second particular video sequence to the second storage means.

Thus, the storage of the second particular video sequence is carried out automatically, in connection with the occurrence of a particular event.

Various applications are conceivable such as the transmission of a video sequence of events prior to an incident on an isolated fixed and / or mobile site to the owner of a mobile telephone equipped to receive video sequences.

Another direct application is supported, in the case of heinous acts of aggression of people and / or children, even of abductions, without one being able to gather clues from the earlier, a pledge of rapid and effective intervention by rescue workers and police officers.

Thus, in this case, the wearer of a device that is the subject of the invention, victim of an assault, or a witness equipped with this device and close to this event, by an immediate action to control recording on said device, will initially cause the capture of the images and sounds of the moments preceding the facts, and therefore of the circumstances and actors present in the field of vision of the camera with which the device is equipped.

A mobile phone transmission module integrated or peripheral to the device, will retrieve this information to transmit it immediately to another mobile phone capable of playing these video sequences for immediate reaction. To this device would be coupled, a telephone transmission module, or even reception module, similar to those installed in portable telephones commonly used today by a large category of professionals and individuals around the world. This particularity of selective seizure of facts and circumstances prior to a declared event, responds to the omnipresence of the information likely to be collected, and the relevance of the content of this information.

2 ^{* e * πe} application of the invention:

The invention also relates to a second application of the invention which results from the following analysis:

Existing devices intended to trigger an emergency response are mainly characterized today by electromechanical or even computer devices, the essential function of which is to stop the current function as quickly as possible, or even immediately, in order to protect the integrity of property and people potentially threatened by the risks involved and / or surrounding. These devices are sometimes relayed, from their implementation, by sirens and other rotating beacons intended for audio and visual information.

In this area, the most well-known applications relate to call terminals and call control and / or emergency stop control boxes, generally incorporating either a push button of the punch type or a control by handle. , push or pull.

These devices are generally installed in places with significant potential risks in the public or private domain, and, because of their function, must be visible and accessible to all audiences.

Taking into account the consequences, the disturbances generated by the direct and indirect dysfunctions which will follow, the means to engage and / or engaged in this emergency intervention, the responsibilities incurred, it is desirable to identify the person who activated this stop emergency, in order to have a testimony on the merits of this action. Due to the accessibility open to all, it frequently happens that acts of vandalism and / or sabotage and other untimely actions are committed by malicious people, who actuate these emergency stop devices without reason. These malicious acts, carried out underhanded with the intention of causing harm, remain anonymous, and generate the consequences already cited, coupled with notable dissatisfaction on the part of those involved in these disturbances. This is mainly the case with emergency stop control devices in rail transport in particular.

The object of the application of the invention described below is to provide, by a video sequence, the immediate environment of the box from which the emergency stop command comes, with, for essential characteristic, to communicate this information in the immediate previous time preceding the action generated.

This application relates to a system comprising a device for recording images and / or sounds as defined above, making it possible to capture and restore a video sequence retracing the circumstances of the triggering of an alert device, in particular the triggering of a train emergency stop command. The recording system comprises: video capture means, in particular a video camera, intended to capture video sequences representing the alert device and / or its immediate environment,

- first storage means, intended to store continuously and temporarily the video sequences thus captured. The first storage means comprising a volatile memory area with a capacity suitable for storing sliding fractions and of fixed duration of the video sequences thus captured. The storage is in particular carried out according to a FIFO procedure (first input first output).

The recording system further comprises: connection means for connecting the recording device to the alert device, in particular to an emergency stop command for a train, detection means, associated with the means for connection, to detect an actuation of the alert device, in particular the actuation by a traveler of the emergency stop control of a train, - control means, activated automatically by the detection means, in function of the activation of the alert device. The control means make it possible to:

• select a particular video sequence from the video sequences thus memorized by the first means of storage, in particular a video sequence starting one minute before and ending one minute after actuation of the alert device,

• order a transfer of the particular video sequence to second storage means, intended to permanently store, in whole or in part, the particular video sequence thus selected.

The recording system is associated with reading means allowing an operator to view the particular video sequence thus stored by the second storage means.

Thus, the sole triggering of the alert device causes the automatic storage of a video sequence, retracing the circumstances of the triggering of the alert device, the video sequence being able to be viewed and analyzed, in particular within the framework of an investigation.

We will thus have video sequences identifying the people, even the facts, behind the emergency stop action. Video equipment is known which is capable of recording sequences on various media.

These sequences are recorded in real time, when the device, the camera in this case, is in operation and / or programmed, for events as they unfold, by consuming more or less significant amounts of media. recording.

Since the recording is performed continuously, large and unnecessary recorded sequences are quickly available.

It sometimes happens that these recording media are erased periodically in order to allow the recording of new sequences according to the same process, thereby revealing the uselessness and the glut of the recordings made.

The recovery of this information by qualified personnel requires specific devices such as monitors, video recorders, tape recorders, camcorders, cassettes in various formats, flash memories, centralized or decentralized computers and hard drives ... which allow viewing of recorded sequences, consuming operator time and more or less significant amounts of recording media.

It turns out that these installations and equipment do not lend themselves to the mobility of resources when it comes to rail transport, for example, to the dynamics required for an express and on-site intervention from the emergency call launched, to easy or even discreet integration into the immediate surroundings of the various call terminals.

The merits of an emergency stop command action being assessed afterwards, and the identification of the person making the command constituting an exhibit, the invention below s 'attaches to providing a video means of a simple implementation, able to collect only the essential on the said circumstances of this request for emergency stop.

The purpose of this application of the invention is to respond to the listed dissatisfactions, to overcome these drawbacks and to provide, in a limited volume, easy to install, a recording and / or sound device capable of recording events and sequences. relating to facts prior to a registration decision, and therefore likely to be assessed as relevant.

The object of this application of the invention selectively uses capacity storage means adapted to these preliminary stealthy moments and preceding the recording decision, therefore of emergency stop command, with a view to their operation by authorized persons.

This application of the invention is therefore suitable for integration into any environment using emergency stops as described, and particularly provides a response in the railway environment both on the selectivity, relevance, implementation efficiency, compactness and saving in direct and indirect costs.

Thus, in this case of use, the emergency stop command, relayed to the device which is the subject of the invention, will initially cause the capture of the images and sounds of the moments preceding the facts, and therefore of the circumstances and actors present in the field of vision of the camera with which the device is equipped.

This particularity of selective seizure of facts and circumstances prior to a declared event, responds in particular to the omnipresence of the information likely to be collected, to the saving of recording and data processing space, and to the relevance of the content of this information.

3 ^ιems application of the invention:

This application of the invention results from the following analysis:

In places of work appreciated at risk for property and people, there are various kinds of warning signs intended to sensitize the staff working in this environment, as well as to remind them of the sustained attention to which these staff is on duty.

Existing devices intended to trigger an emergency intervention are mainly characterized today by mechanical, electromechanical, or even computer devices, the essential function of which is to stop the function or operation in progress as quickly as possible, even immediately. to protect the integrity of property and people potentially threatened by the risks incurred and / or surrounding.

These devices are sometimes relayed, from their implementation, by sirens and other rotating beacons intended for audio and visual information. In this area, the most well-known applications relate to call terminals and call control and / or emergency stop control boxes, generally incorporating either a push button of the punch type or a control by handle. , push or pull.

These devices are generally installed in places with significant potential risks in workshops, storage areas, other laboratories and test rooms.

When an accident occurs, we very often find ourselves without explanations of the exact circumstances at the origin of this accident, knowing moreover that any human testimony on the matter, can be subject to caution and various interpretations, leaving room fragility and doubt. This is often unbearable in the search for responsibilities which can dramatically involve the personnel concerned, executives and other leaders for failure in their prevention system, intervention systems, production tools ... These possible arrests can, in the in the event of damage extension outside the factory perimeter, having the most serious consequences, in application of the legislation of the time and of the costs to be borne by the insurance companies. Thus, in order to acquire information, it is possible to equip oneself with surveillance cameras, which will have to be multiplied in the sector (s) concerned, and to undertake very heavy investments in infrastructure. 'direct and indirect exploitation, which requires the greatest selectivity in the face of foreseeable investment.

One could therefore consider equipping said sensitive and / or dangerous areas with known type of recording, such as cameras and using recording tapes and / or digital media, the operation of which is adapted to the moment, regardless of whether or not to record.

These sequences are recorded in real time, when the device, the camera in this case, is in operation and / or programmed, for events as they unfold, by consuming more or less significant amounts of media. of registration.

As the recording is performed continuously, large, useless, and expensive recorded sequences are quickly available.

It sometimes happens that these recording media are erased periodically in order to allow the recording of new sequences according to the same process, thereby revealing the uselessness and the glut of the recordings made. The recovery of this information by qualified personnel requires specific devices such as monitors, video recorders, tape recorders, camcorders, cassettes in various formats, flash memories, computers and centralized or decentralized hard drives ... which allow viewing of recorded sequences, in consuming operator time and more or less significant amounts of recording media.

The merits of recording a sequence being appreciated afterwards, the invention below attempts to provide a video means of a simple implementation, capable of collecting only the essentials on said circumstances of this registration.

The object of the application of the invention described below is to provide by a video sequence, the immediate environment of the box from which recording information comes, with, for essential characteristic, to communicate this information in the immediate previous time preceding the action generated.

This application of the invention relates to a system comprising an apparatus for recording images and / or sounds. as previously defined allowing an operator to capture and reproduce a video sequence retracing the circumstances of an event that occurred at a workplace, in particular an accident or an explosion that occurred at a workplace, a malicious intrusion into a factory or in a warehouse.

The recording system comprises: video capture means, in particular video cameras, intended for capturing video sequences relating to the workplace, in particular images from an employee's work station, first storage means, intended to memorize continuously and temporarily the video sequences thus captured. The first storage means comprise a volatile memory area with a capacity suitable for storing sliding fractions and of fixed duration of the video sequences thus captured. The storage is in particular carried out according to a FIFO procedure (first input first output). The recording system or device further comprises: a control member, actuated by the operator, making it possible to:

Select a particular video sequence from the video sequences thus memorized by the first storage means, in particular the images of an accident or an explosion which occurred at said workplace,

The recording device is associated with playback means allowing the operator to view the particular video sequence thus stored by the second storage means. Thus, the particularly interesting video sequence, retracing the circumstances of an event occurring at a workplace, in particular an accident occurring at a workplace, a malicious intrusion in a factory or in a warehouse, is memorized with a view to be viewed and analyzed a posteriori.

Preferably, the recording device further comprises: connection means for connecting the recording device to a sensor, in particular a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, a building alarm, reception means, associated with connection means, intended to receive alert information from the sensor, in particular the triggering of a building alarm, an alert linked to an abnormal temperature or pressure, control means, activated automatically by the reception, based on the alert information. The control means allowing to:

Automatically select a second particular video sequence from said video sequences thus memorized by the first storage means, in particular a video sequence starting one minute before and ending one minute after receipt of the alert information, '

We will thus have video sequences identifying the circumstances, the facts, the people present, the chronology of the events preceding or even causing the accident.

The object of this application of the invention selectively uses capacity storage means adapted to these preliminary and preceding stealthy moments. decision to register, therefore the circumstances of an accident, with a view to their exploitation by authorized persons.

Thus, in this case of use, a very diverse external control (push buttons, shock, opening, pressure, temperature detectors, exceeding the threshold of measuring devices, untimely and lasting presence of objects and / or unrecognized forms ...) relayed to the device which is the subject of the invention, will initially cause the capture of images and sounds of the moments prior to the facts, and therefore of the circumstances and actors present in the field of vision the camera on the device.

This peculiarity of selective seizure of facts and circumstances prior to a declared event, responds in particular to the omnipresence of the information likely to be collected, the saving of recording and data processing space, and the relevance of the content of this information, to its immediate and available use, to the lowest direct and indirect operating costs, as well as to possible requests for police investigation services and insurance companies.

4 application of the invention:

This application of the invention results from the following analysis:

Apparatuses for recording and reading images and / or sounds are known, of the type comprising a reception station for recorded media, objectives, sensors and electronic circuits suitable for recording, reading means adapted to the format of said supports, electronic circuits suitable for decoding and transcribing images and sounds to a screen and loudspeaker, for reading and hearing their content.

These are mainly VCRs, camcorders, video players and others computers, for more or less extensive functions depending on the purpose of the device, functions which start from the image viewing sequence and sound recovery, until the recording and playback of stored sequences. Current digital technology uses, for photography and video recording purposes, extractable flash memories, with a view to the possible exploitation of their content by suitable transfer to computer media (computer hard disks, floppy disk or CD-Rom ), or by printing to paper supports.

For reading and copies of extractable flash memories, certain devices are provided with a reception slot in order to allow the mechanical and electronic configuration of said flash memory in order to initiate said reading.

In another case, the memory can remain integrated into the device of the native type, and the transfer for reading and or copying takes place via suitable connections of the USB type, IEEE 1394, RS 232 .... to devices of the same type accepting these formats.

These devices play the recorded media inserted in the device, according to a single reading sequence, a programmed sequence or a random sequence. The recordings produced sometimes present tedious, uninteresting or even redundant passages, which generates an overconsumption of memory spaces at considerable financial cost, as well as operator time if one wishes to make modifications on the recorded media. The selection of passages for possible copying or for various video edits requires either a dedicated external device of the same type, or a computer with a specific electronic card and editing software sometimes supplied with said camcorder and / or camera. digital. This involves operations of interconnections, connections to the mains, putting in read state for one device while the other must be in record state before launching the common sequence start command.

This requires attention, concentration and the repetition of tasks quickly becomes tedious and boring.

As for the realization of the video editing and the synchronization of a soundtrack, it comes from knowledgeable skills in computer science and specific software.

It is also frequent to have multiple recordings which one stores, classifies, stores here and there, in various places or pieces of furniture arranged accordingly, just as it happens that the packaging specific to each of these recording media are either scattered or contain content different from their original packaging.

Another dissatisfaction results from the heaviness of the tasks to be carried out since the search for the recording medium that one wishes to view and or hear, its extraction from its pocket or cassette, its insertion in the adapted reader, the storage of the cover while waiting for the end of the sequence viewed and / or auditioned until storage following the reverse process. The proliferation of digital devices with the most diverse extractable memories and recording media and in the most varied dimensions accentuates and will no doubt accentuate this proliferation of drawbacks.

The purpose of the application of the invention is to overcome these disadvantages and provide a system for recording and playback of images and / or sound capabilities and extended functionality and ^'integrated, as in reading, than '' full or selective recording, only of reception capacities and classification of memory blocks, mobility, and • openings to devices processing multimedia content data.

This application of the invention relates to a mobile system or device for reading and recording enabling user-friendly sharing and archiving of multimedia data. The multimedia data come from a plurality of recording media, in particular of the removable flash memory type. The mobile reading and recording device comprises: means for reading multimedia data coming from the plurality of recording media,

- means for viewing multimedia data, associated with reading means, in particular a display screen and speakers, - means for recording multimedia data, in particular on media of the extractable flash memory type. The recording means include:

- duplication means making it possible to duplicate all or part of the multimedia data, and / or - selective duplication means making it possible to memorize the multimedia data a posteriori and selectively.

The mobile reading and recording device further comprises: ^' - input interfaces and / or output interfaces intended to connect the mobile reading and recording device to peripheral devices, in particular to computer equipment, video recorders, digital cameras. The mobile reading and recording device also comprises:

- means of archiving, in particular extractable, multimedia data. The archiving means are in the form of locations integrated into the mobile reading and recording device, in particular in the form of storage locations. storage for receiving recording media, in particular extractable flash memories.

The mobile reading and recording device also comprises: - transport means, in particular a carrying handle, intended to allow easy mobility of the mobile reading and recording device.

Thus, the mobile reading and recording device can be used as a universal mobile housing for reading and storing videos, photos, music.

This device, according to the invention, would allow, in a single piece of equipment:

to receive one or more extractable video flash memories for reading and / or recording,

- to be connectable to any device with commonly used video inputs and outputs (S-video, USB, IEEE 1394 ...),

- read and listen to the recordings contained in these read flash memories on a screen and integrated speakers,

to make copies of all or part of said flash memories, to make selective copies according to a principle of a posteriori capture of said flash memories,

- to accommodate one or more flash memories of the extractable type with a view to their recording, to accommodate said flash memories in extractable supports and adapted to their format, thereby constituting filing boxes and / or extractable storage also ,

- to have a handle to facilitate its mobility and its transport in order to share with family and / or friends appreciated recordings. 5 ^ιeme application of the invention:

This application of the invention results from the following analysis There are currently, exclusively on traffic lights, cameras coupled to a cell, the purpose of which is not to know the circumstances of a possible accident. This triggers a photograph of the vehicle disrespectful of the signaling of the moment with a view to its exploitation by the police force or a computer center with a view to a ticket for the offender.

Thus, in the event of a traffic accident, as long as one wishes to know the circumstances and establish the responsibilities of each, this equipment proves to be unsuitable. This is even more obvious if this accident involves pedestrians and cyclists in particular.

It is surprising to note that compulsory stops of the “STOP” type are completely devoid of this type of equipment, revealing a void probably linked to infrastructure.

One could consider equipping said crossroads and other intersections with recording devices of known type, such as cameras and using recording tapes and / or digital media, the operation of which is adapted at the moment, without distinction of whether or not to register.

Sometimes these recording media are erased periodically to allow recording of new sequences following the same process, thereby revealing the uselessness and the glut of the recordings made.

The recovery of this information by qualified personnel requires specific devices such as monitors, video recorders, tape recorders, camcorders, cassettes in various formats, flash memories, computers and centralized or decentralized hard drives ... which allow viewing of recorded sequences, in consuming operator time and more or less significant amounts of recording media.

The merits of recording a sequence being appreciated afterwards, the invention below endeavors to provide a video means of a simple implementation, capable of collecting only the essentials on said circumstances of this registration.

The object of the application of the invention described below is to provide, by video sequence, the immediate environment under the cover of cameras at the road junction and / or the area under sensitive “STOP” type signaling, with, for essential characteristic, to communicate this information only if necessary, information relating to the immediate previous time preceding the accident caused.

This application of the invention relates to a system, or device, provided with a device for recording images and / or sounds as defined above, allowing an operator to capture and restore a video sequence retracing the circumstances of an event which occurred in a specific environment, in particular an accident between two vehicles at a crossroads, a "stop" sign not observed by a motorist.

The recording device comprises: video capture means, in particular video cameras, intended to capture. video sequences relating to the determined environment, in particular the images of a dangerous crossroads,

Z " first storage means, intended for storing continuously and temporarily the video sequences thus captured. The first storage means comprise a volatile memory area with a capacity suitable for storing sliding fractions and of fixed duration of the video sequences thus captured. The storage is in particular carried out according to a FIFO procedure (first input first output).

The recording device further comprises: - a control member making it possible to:

Select a particular video sequence from the video sequences thus memorized by the first memory means, in particular the images of an accident between two vehicles at a road junction, the crossing of a "stop" sign not respected by a motorist,

• order a transfer of the particular video sequence to second storage means, intended to permanently store, in whole or in part, the particular video sequence thus selected. The control member being able to be actuated manually by the operator and / or programmed in the event of the fulfillment of a predetermined condition, in particular in the event of the prolonged presence of a vehicle in the field of video capture means.

The recording device is associated with reading means allowing the operator to view the particular video sequence thus memorized by the second storage means.

Thus, the particularly interesting video sequence retracing the circumstances of an accident or a traffic violation is memorized with a view to being viewed and analyzed a posteriori.

We will thus have relevant video sequences identifying the circumstances, the chronology of the events, the vehicles in question, the people in this field of cameras ... which will make it possible to delimit everyone's responsibilities for their own need vis-à-vis the police force as well as vis-à-vis insurance companies.

The object of the invention selectively uses capacity storage means adapted to these preliminary stealthy moments preceding the recording command, and relating to the circumstances of the accident, with a view to their exploitation by persons. authorized.

This invention is therefore suitable for integration into any road environment in particular, and provides a particular response by a means nonexistent to date, on selectivity, relevance, implementation efficiency, compactness and cost savings direct and indirect induced.

This particularity of selective seizure of facts and circumstances prior to a declared event, responds in particular to the omnipresence of the information likely to be collected, to the saving of recording and data processing space, and to the relevance and optimization of the content of this information. To clarify the operation, we will consider that:

- a camera is in continuous action and passively, the information emanating from this camera is recorded in a first register of memories considered as temporary, which, when the storage capacity is reached, overwrite the first information entered in favor of the last incoming , when an event is considered relevant and worthy of being recorded on a permanent support, an automatic or manual contact, meeting the initial criteria of relevance, will trigger the transfer of the information previously recorded in the first storage register cited, for their storage to second permanent memory registers, reading these memorization methods will provide answers to questions about circumstances and responsibilities in particular.

g ^ieme a iction of the invention:

This application of the invention results from the following analysis:

Apparatuses for recording images and / or sounds are known, of the type comprising input ports for the data collected by a camera and various microphones, electronic means for coding and formatting the data collected with a view to recording it on adapted media, a reception desk for recording or recorded media, electronic circuits suitable for decoding and transcribing images and sounds to a screen and loudspeaker, for reading and hearing their content.

These are, particularly and for example, with regard to surveillance, devices such as black boxes on board vehicles and / or planes, which after decoding sometimes allow, by studying recorded data, to '' identify faulty equipment or significant variations in various measures, preliminary to an incident and / or accident. These devices in particular ensure the recording on various supports, of sequences in real time, when the device is in operation and / or programmed, for events as and when they are broadcast or unfolding, consuming more quantities. or less important recording media.

It sometimes happens that these recording media are erased periodically in order to allow the recording of new sequences according to the same process, thereby revealing the uselessness and the glut of the recordings made. In reality, and despite these equipment and provisions, it frequently happens that an accident remains unexplained on its real circumstances, especially during facts and parameters external to any measurement device installed, which generates the most diverse hypotheses and scenarios. , psychologically, materially unsatisfactory, or even fraught with consequences when looking for responsibilities.

This is the case, for example, during a terrorist act, during an accident, with a view to understanding and reconstructing the facts, their chronology, the identification of actors and perpetrators, the reaction of the attacked and victims, etc.

These circumstances often prove, after the fact, worthy of interest, without having the means capable of collecting only the essentials on the said circumstances preceding and / or causing this accident.

The purpose of this application of the invention is to overcome these drawbacks and to provide a system provided with an image and / or sound recording apparatus, as defined above, capable of recording events and relative sequences to facts prior to a recording decision, using capacity memorization means adapted to these preliminary furtive moments preceding the accident or incident. The invention relates to a system or device for monitoring on board a vehicle enabling an operator to capture and restore a particular video sequence relating to an incident which has occurred in the vehicle, in particular a bus accident or a hijacking of an aircraft. The monitoring system includes:

video capture means, in particular video cameras, intended to capture video sequences taking place inside the vehicle,

- first storage means, intended to store video sequences continuously and temporarily thus captured. The first storage means comprising a volatile memory area with a capacity suitable for storing sliding fractions and of fixed duration of the video sequences thus captured. The storage is in particular carried out according to a FIFO procedure (first input first output).

The monitoring device also comprises: - a control unit making it possible to:

• select a particular video sequence from the video sequences thus memorized by the first memory means, in particular the instant of a bus accident or the arrival of hijackers,

• order a transfer of the particular video sequence to second storage means, intended to permanently store, in whole or in part, the particular video sequence thus selected. The control member can be actuated manually by the operator and / or programmed in the event of the fulfillment of a predetermined condition, in particular in the event of depressurization of the cabin of an aircraft or in the event of exceeding of a temperature threshold in the vehicle.

The monitoring device is associated with reading means allowing the operator to view the particular video sequence thus memorized by the second storage means.

Thus, the particularly interesting video sequence containing the scene of an incident which occurred in the vehicle is memorized with a view to being viewed and analyzed a posteriori.

7 ^ιeπe application of the invention:

This application of the invention results from the following analysis: Apparatuses for recording images and / or sounds are known, of the type comprising input ports for the data collected by a camera, television set and other microphones, electronic means for coding and formatting the data collected with a view to their recording on suitable media, a reception station for media to be recorded or recorded, electronic circuits suitable for decoding and transcribing images and sounds to a screen and loudspeaker, for reading and hearing their content. These are, particularly and for example, with regard to the multimedia world, devices such as video recorders, camcorders, digital cameras, and new generation mobile phones including in particular image recording functionalities. and video footage.

These devices in particular ensure the recording on various supports, of sequences in real time, when the device is in operation and / or programmed, for sequences as and when they are broadcast or carried out. In everyday life, it often happens that an event or sequence grabs our particular attention, based on criteria specific to each of us.

This is the case, for example, especially in front of a television sequence such as news reporting, film, live events ...

No one being a diviner, it is impossible for us to declare our interest before having experienced or visualized a sequence or an event.

In the case of a television broadcast for example, it is just as frequent that our video recorder is not in operation at the time when a sequence calls us, which causes dissatisfaction or even more or less marked annoyance, due to the impossibility of reliving this information or this fleeting and fleeting sequence which captured our attention, and which deserves in our eyes an immediate replay, even a recording for various reasons.

The object of the invention is to overcome these drawbacks and to provide a system provided with a device for recording images and / or sounds as defined above capable of recording events and sequences relating to broadcasts prior to a recording decision, by using means of memorizing capacities adapted to these furtive moments that we will have experienced or viewed and wished to relive and revise.

Process

The invention relates to a method of recording images and / or sounds, in particular television sequences emitted by a remote transmitter, with a view to a replay of sequences emitted prior to the decision to register. The process includes the following steps:

the step, for a viewer, of viewing the television sequences on a screen of television equipment receiving them in real time,

- the step of continuously recording, in a volatile memory area of appropriate capacity, sliding slices of determined duration of the television sequences thus viewed, according to a FIFO procedure (first entry, first exit), - the step, for the viewer, to select a determined sequence which has just been broadcast and which he wishes to review.

The determined sequence, thus selected, was previously recorded according to the FIFO procedure. The method further comprises the step, for the viewer, of actuating by means of a control member the transfer of the determined sequence from the memory area to an image processing equipment:

- either to rebroadcast the determined sequence, - either to record the determined sequence on a durable and / or removable support.

It results from the combination of technical features that the viewer thus has the possibility of reliving stealthy moments that have captured his attention during the television broadcast.

Preferably according to the invention, the volatile memory area has an appropriate capacity to be able to find almost instantaneously the past sequence having captured the attention of the viewer.

Preferably according to the invention, the volatile memory area has an appropriate capacity so that the viewer can actuate in complete peace of mind by a reflex manual action the control member, having sufficient time. Preferably according to the invention, the method is such that the volatile memory area has a capacity of between 10 s and 30 s.

System The invention also relates to a system provided with an apparatus for recording images and / or sounds as defined above, in particular television sequences emitted by a remote transmitter, for the purpose of a replay of sequences emitted prior to the decision. recording. The system includes:

- television equipment receiving television sequences in real time and broadcasting them on a screen for the use of a viewer

- first means for storing sliding sections of fixed duration of the television sequences thus viewed, according to a FIFO procedure (first entry, first exit).

These first storage means, storing continuously, temporarily, the television sequences, comprise a volatile memory area of appropriate capacity. The system according to the invention further comprises a control member, operable by the viewer, for transferring to an image processing equipment a determined sequence selected by the viewer, from the sequences which have just been broadcast and which have been previously recorded. according to the FIFO procedure in the first storage means.

Image processing equipment includes:

* second storage means intended to store permanently, in whole or in part, the determined sequence thus transferred, and / or

* means for rebroadcasting the determined sequence.

Preferably according to the invention, the system is such that the first storage means and / or the second storage means are removable. Preferably according to the invention, the volatile memory area has an appropriate capacity to be able to find almost instantaneously the past sequence having captured the attention of the viewer,

Preferably according to the invention, the volatile memory area has an appropriate capacity so that the viewer can actuate in complete peace of mind by a reflex manual action the control member, having sufficient time. Preferably according to the invention, the volatile memory area has a capacity of between 10 s and 30 s.

g _iemΘ application of the invention:

This application of the invention results from the following analysis:

The vision devices mentioned are generally comprised of an optic adapted and / or adaptable to the operator's vision, as well as various systems and / or optical adaptations intended to aid vision for general or specific conditions.

The general conditions generally concern eyeglasses and binoculars compensating for the optical deficiencies of everyone, while the special conditions are understood, for binoculars in particular, in the event that a reduction in power and performance is necessary for the remote observation (magnification, visual field ...), and other equipment adapted to the environment such as infrared for night vision, aggressive atmosphere, etc.

We are currently witnessing the integration of electronics into vision equipment, in particular for qualitative or even quantitative performance. In some equipment, there are, as peripheral or on-board additives, cameras of the silver type and recently of the digital type.

For example, these are, particularly and, with regard to equipment intended for observation, binoculars and other astronomical glasses.

These devices therefore allow users to live their passion for observation, whether it is oriented towards nature, astral examinations, or to satisfy their curiosity. For other users who would be qualified as professionals, it may be equipment necessary for observation for cases of scientific research, various intelligence services for the purposes of investigations and other spinning. In the case of use with a photographic camera in addition to or integrated into binoculars in particular, and when a shot is desired by the user, various modes are available, namely: photo by photo, continuous, three by three or other, making a mini video sequence, using a self-timer ... The binoculars with digital camera have an internal memory of a few mega bytes, in order to store a more or less large amount of images, depending on whether you work in low or high resolution. These images can then be viewed and downloaded to a computer via a connector dedicated to this use.

In practice, the user may be faced with various problems and dissatisfactions, namely: - staying eminently focused on his "target", in order to capture by the image, the long-awaited and coveted moment, which is likely to generate real eye strain, or even weariness,

- be seized by doubt, about what he thought he saw and / or saw, without having had the time to trigger a photograph, take photographs in bursts, in order to minimize the risk of missing the auspicious event so long awaited,

- unnecessarily consuming memory spaces and / or film,

- reveal and / or transfer a large quantity of images, which he will then have to view, select through specific criteria, which will still require resources and time, - regret having "missed" what escaped him due to the suddenness of the event, its brevity, its unexpected and unpredictable appearance, due to its inattention and / or disturbance by an external cause, due to its eye or physical fatigue following long periods of observation for uninteresting facts,

- experience strong dissatisfaction with all the preparations, possible artifices, means and time involved for this observation period.

With regard to the means mobilized, preparations, artifices, other disguises and camouflage, time consecrated, even of the risks run, the dissatisfaction can be deep if the specific event so awaited escapes, all the more if this is likely to consolidate a working hypothesis, to release the doubt, to deliver a tangible proof .

The purpose of this application of the invention is to overcome these drawbacks and to provide a system provided with a device for recording images and / or sounds as defined above capable of recording events and sequences relating to facts prior to a recording decision, using capacity memorization means adapted to these preliminary stealthy moments and preceding the facts appreciated afterwards, interesting.

This application of the invention relates to a system, or device, provided with an apparatus for recording sequences of images _. and / or sounds captured by means of a vision instrument, in particular of the binocular type, as previously defined. The recording device is intended to allow an operator to record events and sequences relating to facts prior to an operator registration decision. The device includes:

a vision instrument, in particular of the binocular type, making it possible to capture sequences of images and / or sounds,

- electronic equipment, receiving the sequences of images and / or sounds from the vision instrument, via connectors.

Electronic equipment includes:

- first storage means, intended for continuously storing the sequences of images and / or sounds coming from the vision instrument. The first storage means comprise a volatile memory area with a capacity suitable for storing sliding fractions and of fixed duration of the sequences of images and / or sounds thus received. The storage is carried out in particular according to the FIFO procedure (first input-first output). The electronic equipment also includes: - a control unit making it possible to:

Select a particular sequence from the sequences of images and / or sounds thus memorized by the first memory means, in particular a fleeting moment, sometimes unexpected and suddenly seen through the vision instrument,

• order a transfer of the particular sequence to second storage means, intended to permanently store, in whole or in part, the particular sequence thus selected. The control member is actuated manually by the operator and / or in a preprogrammed manner in the event of the fulfillment of a determined condition, in particular in the event of the presence of a vision instrument in front of a sensor and / or depending on a triggering parameter, adapted to a specific observation condition.

Preferably, the device for recording sequences of images and / or sounds is such that the electronic equipment is connected to external reading means and / or to reading means integrated into the vision instrument. The reading means allow the operator to view the particular sequence thus memorized by the second storage means.

Thus, the sequence, appreciated afterwards as being worthy of interest and containing the furtive moment so long awaited during the observation, is memorized in order to be viewed, analyzed and reproduced for purposes specific to the objectives of the observation carried out. by means of the vision instrument.

The invention relates to electronic equipment allowing a user to capture a particular sequence of photography and / or video, experienced through a pair of binoculars, cameras, cameras and other means of vision and / or observation.

Electronic equipment includes: - connectors required for the input of data from the observation equipment,

- interfaces for processing these data for their conversion into a suitable format if necessary, - first storage means, intended for continuously storing the video sequences emanating from the observation equipment. The first storage means comprising a volatile memory area with a capacity suitable for storing sliding fractions and of fixed duration of the video sequences thus captured. The storage is carried out in particular according to the FIFO procedure (first input-first output).

The electronic equipment also includes:

a control member making it possible to: • select a particular video sequence from the video sequences thus memorized by the first storage means, in particular the stealthy instant, sometimes unexpected and sudden, seen through the observation equipment,

• order a transfer of the particular video sequence to second storage means, intended to permanently store, in whole or in part, the particular video sequence thus selected. The control member can be actuated manually by the operator and / or programmed in the event of the fulfillment of a specific condition, in particular in the event of presence in front of a sensor and / or other triggering device, adapted to the condition of desired observation.

The electronic equipment can be connected to external reading means, or even to those existing on the observation equipment allowing the operator to view the particular video sequence thus memorized by the second storage means.

Thus, the video sequence appreciated afterwards worthy of interest and containing the furtive moment so long awaited during the observation, is memorized in order to be viewed, analyzed and reproduced for purposes specific to the objectives of this observation.

Other characteristics and advantages will emerge from the following description, given solely by way of example and made with reference to the appended drawings in which

- Figure la is a general view of a recording apparatus according to the invention;

- Figure 2a is a block diagram of the apparatus of Figure 1 - Figure 3a is an operating flow diagram of the recording apparatus; and

FIG. 4a is a flowchart for managing access to the second storage means,

- Figure lb is a general view of an architecture of a recording apparatus according to the invention, with remote camera and integrated telephone transmission / reception module;

- Figure 2b is a general view of an architecture of a recording apparatus according to the invention, with remote camera and connectable telephone transmission / reception apparatus;

- Figure 3b is a general view of an architecture of a recording device according to the invention, with integrated camera and integrated telephone transmission / reception module;

- Figure 4b is a general view of an architecture of a recording apparatus according to the invention, with integrated camera and connectable telephone transmission / reception apparatus; FIG. 1c is a general view of an architecture of a recording device according to the invention, with a remote camera; FIG. 2c is a general view of an architecture of a recording device according to the invention, with an integrated camera;

- Figure ld is a sketch imagining symbols of places of use likely to be under surveillance; - Figure 2 d ...

- Figure le is a general exterior view of a recording and reading apparatus 1 according to the invention;

- Figure 2e is a plan view of a possible functional architecture according to the invention;

- Figure lf is a sketch imagining the installation on traffic lights and collision between two vehicles;

- Figure 2f is a general view of an architecture of a recording device according to the invention, with integrated camera;

- Figure lg is a sketch imagining a terrorist attack in a vehicle such as coach and plane, and where a recording device 1 according to the invention, with remote or integrated camera would be implanted; - Figure 2g is a general view of an architecture of a recording device according to the invention, with integrated camera;

- Figure 3g is a general view of an architecture of a recording device according to the invention, with remote camera;

- Figure 1h is a general view of an architecture of a recording apparatus according to the invention;

- Figure 2h is a view of the front of a recording apparatus according to the invention; - Figures li, li, li show three pieces of equipment diagramming vision apparatus according to the invention;

- Figure 2i is a general view of a portable housing; - Figure 3i is a general view of an electronic architecture of a capture box 1 according to the invention. This box is intended to ensure the recording of sequences supplied by remote vision devices and likely to be worn by a user. FIG. 1a shows an elevation view of an image and / or sound recording device according to the invention, designated by the general reference 10a. It is intended to ensure the recording of images and / or sounds supplied by a camera and / or sounds 12a and for reading the recorded data.

At this stage, it should be emphasized that such a shooting device can be a camera, a microphone, but also a cable or a receiver of images or sounds transmitted by a camera or a microphone remote from the device. .

In this FIG. 1, the device for taking pictures and / or sounds is represented by a camera of known type associated, where appropriate, with means for taking sounds, not shown.

The description which follows applies to the storage of images captured by the camera 12a, but can of course also be applied to the storage of the sounds picked up by the sound pickup means. The recording apparatus comprises, arranged in a housing 14a, a central control unit 16a, shown in dotted lines, ensuring the recording of image data delivered by the camera 12a, to which are connected means of storage of image data; a display 18a for viewing image data supplied by the camera 12a or stored in the storage means; and a set of control keys, such as 20a, operable manually by a user.

According to the invention, the storage means are constituted by first temporary and continuous storage means for image data delivered by the camera 12a, shown in dotted lines in this figure la and designated by the reference numeral 22a, and second permanent storage means 24a of data temporarily stored in these first storage means. The first storage means 22a are volatile storage means. They are constituted by a RAM memory 22a of the "FIFO" type ensuring continuous temporary storage of the image data delivered by the camera 12a. Conventionally, the FIFO RAM memory 22a is constituted by a set of registers ensuring the continuous storage of the image data according to a "first in-first out" order.

When the FIFO RAM memory 22a is full, the memorization of new image data causes the content of the registers to be shifted, so that image data which has been first recorded is output or overwritten in the event of capacity being exceeded. from memory.

As a variant, these first storage means 22a consist of a rewritable "CD ROM" type disc, or a conventional PCMCIA type card.

The second storage means 24a are permanent storage means. They consist of a modular set of memory cards 24a of the static RAM type, which are fixed on the housing 14a, and ensuring permanent storage of image data selected by a user and stored in the first storage means.

These second permanent storage means 24a have a storage capacity greater than that of the first storage means 22a, can be constituted by rewritable storage means.

As a variant, these second storage means consist of discs of the "CD ROM" type or conventional cards of the PCMCIA type.

The description of the central control unit 16a will now be made with reference to FIG. 2a.

It comprises a microcontroller 26a associated with an algorithm for piloting and managing the operation of the recording apparatus, under the control of signals delivered by the keys 20, as will be described in detail below.

The microcontroller 26a is connected to the second storage means 24a and to the control keys 20 (not shown in this figure 2a).

It can also be seen in FIG. 2a that the recording apparatus 10a comprises a data processing unit constituted by a video card 28a ensuring the reception of the image data delivered by the camera 12a and their conversion into a format suitable for their memorization in the RAM memory "FIFO" 22a.

To this end, the video card 28a comprises an analog-digital converter and a data compression circuit, not shown and of known type. Furthermore, an interface circuit 30a, connected to the microcontroller 26a, is interposed between the FIFO RAM memory 22a and the static RAM memories 24a for the transmission of the data stored in the volatile memory 22a to the permanent memory 24a under the control of the microcontroller 26a.

The interface circuit 30a is constituted by a logic circuit with AND gates ensuring a logical AND between the data delivered at the output of the FIFO RAM 22a and a signal E of command of recording positioned at a high level to cause the recording, and at a low level to stop recording.

It is therefore understandable that as soon as the recording control signal E is positioned at a high level, the image data delivered by the FIFO RAM memory 22a are presented as inputs of the static RAM memories 24a.

It can also be seen in FIG. 2a that the microcontroller 26a supplies an input CE of each permanent memory 24a with a validation signal of memories V1 to V4, with a view to their selection. Furthermore, the recording control signal E is presented on the R / W input of each static RAM memory 24a, after having been inverted by an inverter 35a.

As soon as the control signal E is at a high level, the permanent memories 24a are positioned according to a writing mode. Likewise, when this signal

E is at a low level, the memories 24a are positioned according to a reading mode.

Each static RAM memory 24a is connected to an appropriate oscillator 32a and of conventional type, ensuring the addressing of each static RAM memory 24a in synchronism with the data delivered at the output of the interface circuit 30a.

Finally, each permanent memory 24a is connected at output to an interface circuit 34 of the conventional type ensuring in particular the decompression of the data delivered at the output of these static RAMs 24a with a view to their presentation on the display 18a.

It can also be seen in FIG. 2a that the microcontroller 26a receives input control signals from the control keys 20a.

The microcontroller 26a in particular receives a signal Enr for controlling the recording of the image data stored in them. first storage means 22. It delivers, in response, the recording control signal E described above.

The microcontroller also receives as input a signal N for controlling the management of access to the second storage means 24a. It delivers in response the signals VI to V4 for selecting the static RAM memories 24a, described above.

The microcontroller 26a also receives control signals for the mode of reading the content of the static RAM memories 24a, constituted for example by signals Ar of rapid advance, RR of rapid return, P of command of pause and L of command of reading. The operation of the recording apparatus, the structure of which has just been described, will now be explained with reference to FIGS. 3a and 4a.

Referring firstly to FIG. 3a, during a first step 40a, the image data delivered by the camera 12a are delivered at the input of the interface circuit 28a. During the following step 42a, this image data is compressed then, in step 44a, this compressed data is stacked successively and continuously in the registers of the FIFO RAM 22a.

During the following step 46a, the microcontroller 26a interrogates its input Enr in order to determine whether a user has pressed the corresponding button for controlling the recording. If this is the case, it causes, during the following step 48a, the storage, in one of the permanent memories 24a, of the image data stored in the volatile memory 22a according to the procedure which will be described with reference to the figure. 4a, and this, until the user actuates a corresponding stop recording button. To do this, the microcontroller 26a sets the recording control signal E at a high level which causes the passage of the image data stored in the FIFO RAM memory 22a to one of the static RAM memories 24a selected or automatically to one of the memories 24a available, that is to say not full, and the positioning of these RAMs in a writing mode.

For the selection of one of the permanent memories 24a, the microcontroller 26a positions a validation signal VI to V4 corresponding to a high level in response to an action on a respective control key 20a causing the emission of a signal N specific.

If this is not the case, that is to say if during step 46a a user has not pressed the recording control key, during the following steps 50a, 52a and 54a , in the case where the FIFO RAM memory 22a is saturated, the image data recorded first is deleted or overwritten successively and replaced by image data recorded later.

It will therefore be understood that, according to the operation which has just been described, image data relating to a particular event and which the user wishes to memorize are recorded in the static RAM memories 24a, after their temporary storage in the FIFO memory. 22a. It should also be noted that the recording device operates according to a first standby mode, steps 40a to 46a, during which image data delivered by the camera 12a are stored temporarily and continuously in the first means of storage 22a, and according to a second recording or storage mode, step 48a, during which selected data relating to a particular sequence of a scene captured by the camera 12a are permanently stored in the second storage means 24a, and this, after their appearance. As previously mentioned, the storage of the image data in the second storage means 24a is controlled by the user in response to actions on corresponding keys for starting recording and stopping recording. Thus, the image data temporarily stored in the first storage means 22a are transferred to the second storage means 24a during the time interval defined by pressing the button at the start of recording and pressing the button d 'recording stop.

However, it is possible for a user to press the stop recording key before the entire sequence which he wishes to memorize is actually stored in the second memorizing means, the part of the sequence in transit and remaining in the first ways to storage 22a then being liable to be overwritten subsequently.

To overcome this drawback, an output A for stopping the recording of the microcontroller 26a is advantageously associated with a delay line 55a of known type, for example of type 50A-10501, and associated with an AND gate 55 ' a ensuring a logical AND between this output A and the output E. The output of the AND gate is connected to the interface circuit 30a. It is thus possible, using the delay line

55a cause a delay in the transmission of the stop recording command.

Thus, after having caused the recording to stop, the image data in transit in the first storage means 22a continue to be transferred in the second storage means 24a for the duration corresponding to the delay caused by the delay line. .

It is also possible, as a variant, to overcome this drawback, to provide the interface circuit 30a with a logic circuit for recognizing an end of recording code word inserted in the image data by the unit. central control unit 16a when the stop recording control key is pressed, to cause writing to be stopped in the second storage means 24a. upon detection of this end code word d 'recording.

It should also be noted that, by means of the selection of the permanent memories 24a, each of them may be intended for the storage of events or sequences relating to the same scene, or of the same nature.

These images can then be viewed on the screen 18a using an appropriate reading device, not shown. To do this, the user selects a particular memory using a corresponding key, which causes a corresponding positioning of one of the signals VI to V4. validation of static RAM memories 24a. The user then presses the play, pause, fast forward or fast reverse keys in order to cause the selective display of the data on the display 18a. During the operation of the recording apparatus in read mode, the input E is positioned at a low level, which causes the static RAMs 24a to be positioned in read mode.

The management of access to the various static RAM memories 24a will now be explained with reference to the flow diagram of FIG. 4a.

During a first step 56a, the microcontroller 26 scans its input N positioned by the user, using a corresponding control key 20a, using which the user positions the device in mode manual or automatic addressing, and selects one of the static RAM memories 24a.

If manual addressing is selected, the microcontroller 26a links the number of the static memory 24a selected during step 58a.

If the automatic addressing mode is selected, the microcontroller 26a directs the image data to a memory 24 available during step 60a.

During the following step 62a, the microcontroller 26a checks the state of the selected memory. If the selected memory 24a is full, the microcontroller checks the state of the other memories during the following step 64a.

If all the other memories are full, an alarm signal is delivered during step 66a. If this is not the case, the microcontroller causes automatic addressing to another static RAM memory available during step 68a, during which image data is stored in this memory. If during the next step 70a ^' this memory of storage is full, operation returns to the previous step 64a.

If during the step 62a the selected storage memory 24a is not full, this memory receives, during the following steps 72a, 74a and 76a, image data extracted from the FIFO RAM 22a which then flow in continuous to the selected memory 24a. During this recording of image data, the microcontroller continuously scans, during step 74a, the state of the selected memory. If this memory is full, the operation returns to the previous step 64.

If this is not the case, the loading of this memory continues, and after the recording, the apparatus goes into standby mode in step 80a. It is therefore understandable that as soon as the recording apparatus is put on standby a user has the possibility of positioning the apparatus in the recording mode with a view to storing in a permanent memory image data relating to an event of 'a scene proving particularly interesting after the appearance of this event.

In the embodiment which has just been described, the first storage means consist of a single cascadable FIFO RAM or of a set of serial FIFO RAM memories. It would however be possible, as a variant, to provide the device with a set of cascadable FIFO RAM memories or a set of serial FIFO RAM memories arranged in cascade in order to increase the duration of the event likely to 'be retrieved for storage. It should also be noted that the permanent memories being modular, removable and interchangeable, it is possible, using this device, to read image data stored in the second storage means of another device of the same type. . This device can also be equipped with audio and / or video inputs and outputs for the transfer of data and / or sequences from other devices of the same type.

In the embodiment which has been described, the recording is controlled by a user manually.

According to another embodiment, the recording is carried out automatically by the microcontroller 26a, using an appropriate algorithm, according to predetermined cycles or periods or during the appearance of particular events.

Description of the 1 ^st embodiment of the invention:

The description of the first application of the invention is given below with the aid of FIG. 1b, a top view of a recording unit according to the invention is shown, and designated by the reference lb.

It is intended to ensure the recording of images and or sounds provided by one or more cameras 2b carried by a user or installed on a site under surveillance, isolated.

In the configuration according to FIG. 1b, the camera turns out to be offset relative to the recording box 1b, with a view to its port and / or its installation likely to offer the maximum of fields of vision, or even of discretion. To facilitate the transportability of the whole, or even its discretion, it is possible to speak of mini-camera 2b, with a view to its attachment to clothing, buttonhole, headband, helmet, cap, spectacle frame, and / or any other discreet place and hardly visible and detectable. The architectures will of course be adapted to the environments in which the box 1b and / or the camera 2b may be used.

In this figure lb, the information entering the box lb and emanating from the camera 2b, is collected on an input socket 3b adapted to the output format of this camera 2b.

The reference box 1b is connected, externally, to one or more actuators 10b adapted to manual control and / or to the circumstances generating possible events.

This is the case for pulse buttons with manual controls, automatic detectors of the overvoltage, opening, pressure, temperature, presence, shock, and other push button type ... whose actions relayed by equipment adapted to the contactor 11b, will cause immediate transfer of the sequences stored in the first temporary storage means 7b to the second permanent storage means 8b, the respective characteristics of which are presented below. This figure lb image, in the same box lb, an electronic module for transmitting and receiving mobile telephone and video sequences 14b, similar to those existing on the market and of known type.

The description which follows therefore applies in particular to the storage of incoming video sequences by means of the camera 2b, assessed as relevant immediately and after the filmed sequence likely to be of interest, with a view to their telephone transmission to an interlocutor equipped with '' a mobile phone suitable for receiving video sequences.

This operating principle also proves to be just as suitable for memorizing captured sounds and various data with a view to their transmission according to the same principles. The recording device comprises an electronic circuit 4b integrating the components necessary for the previously mentioned capture principle.

The recording system will be supplied with energy, depending on its mobility vocation or not, according to conventional means (sector, battery, etc.) via a benchmark socket. 5b and possibly integrated power supply 6b, and is operational, as soon as it is connected via the connector 3b to the camera 2b and as soon as it is put into operation.

In the case of possibly transportable equipment, it is possible, for reasons of energy savings, to provide the housing with an on contact 9b at the discretion of the user.

It is possible, in an extended configuration, via a specific code and suitable relaying internal to the device, to switch this contact 9b of activation by a remote person equipped with a mobile phone, authorized, and wishing to capture a information at any time on the environment of the wearer of this box lb.

Provided that this contact 9b remains closed, the device 1b is therefore, from this instant, in a phase of continuous recording according to the FIFO principle, and therefore of memorizing the incoming sequences in first memorizing means 7b, after the functions of decoding / coding / possible compression of said incoming data via circuit 12b.

These first storage means 7b are of the volatile type, and continuously provide temporary storage of the incoming data emanating from said upstream devices.

Conventionally, the FIFO RAM memory 7b is constituted by a set of registers ensuring the continuous storage of the image data in a “first in-first out” order.

When the FIFO RAM memory 7b is full, the memorization of new image data causes the content of the registers to be shifted, so that recorded image data is output or overwritten in the event of exceeding the capacity of Memory.

As a variant, these first storage means 7b consist of a rewritable “CD-ROM” type disc, or a conventional PCMCIA card, or even other flash memory, or memory space on an internal or peripheral hard disk.

The extension of these so-called first storage means 7b, in terms of capacity and / or for other functional reasons, such as for example the pursuit of capture during a reading phase, can lead to adding to these first storage means 7b, means of the same type in cascade 7 'a, 7'b, 7'c ...

The second storage means 8b are permanent storage means. They consist of a modular set of memory cards 8b of static RAM type, which are fixed on the circuit 4b, and ensuring permanent storage of image data selected by a user and stored in the first memory means 7b. These second permanent storage means 8b have a storage capacity greater than that of the first storage means 7b, can be constituted by rewritable storage means.

As a variant, these second storage means 8b consist of a rewritable “CD-ROM” type disc, or a conventional PCMCIA card, flash memory, or even integrated hard disk or peripheral.

The extension of these so-called second storage means 8b, in terms of capacity, can lead to adding to these second storage means 8b, means of the same type in cascade 8 ′ a, 8 ′ b, 8 ′ c ...

At this stage, and depending on the purpose and / or configuration of this device, after suitable formatting in the circuit 12b, the telephone transmission of these captured sequences, via the transmission module 14b, can be carried out systematically and therefore automatically during the tripping of the contactor 10b, or at the option of the wearer of the device, by a position of a switch 13b. This transmission mode will be defined by the position of the switch 13b, which may or may not be operable by the wearer of the device.

Likewise and as a variant, due to the relevance of the information appreciated afterwards by the wearer of the apparatus, the control of data transfer from the memories 7b to the permanent storage means 8b, could be carried out manually at its convenience, by a new position of the switch 13b. Another position of this switch 13b, would allow the transfer of data directly from the first storage means 7b, to the transmission module of the integrated telephone 14b, after formatting in the circuit 12b.

In the versions integrated into the device of the transmitting and / or receiving module 14b, and as represented in FIGS. 1B and in FIG. 3b, the telephone number (s) of the correspondent directly concerned by the content of the sequences captured by the camera 2b and stored in 7b and 8b, will be programmed for direct and instantaneous transmission.

As a variant and / or in addition to the transmission and / or reception module 14b, it is conceivable to supplement this module with an existing and current LCD screen type 15b, in order to view the sequences captured and stored in 7b and / or 8b, both before and during their transfer to the designated correspondent.

FIG. 2b represents the box as described above, in a remote transmission / reception assembly configuration 17b, and provided with a connection cord 16b in order to transfer the data coming from the storage means 7b and 8b, with a view to their transmission by this mobile telephone 17b, of the commonly used type and capable of processing video sequences in particular. In this configuration, the principles of capturing sequences before the event and transmitting data are of the same nature as described above.

FIG. 3b represents the box as described above, in an architecture integrating the camera 2b, the recording device lb, and a transmission / reception assembly 14b, as described above.

In this configuration, the principles of capturing sequences prior to the event and transmitting data are of the same nature as described above.

FIG. 4b represents the box as described above, in an architecture integrating the camera 2b, the recording device lb, in a remote transmission / reception assembly configuration 17b, and provided with a connection cord 16b in order to transfer the data from the storage means 7b and 8b, for a transmission of the sequences recorded by this mobile telephone 17b, of the commonly used type and capable of processing video sequences in particular. In this configuration, the principles of capturing sequences prior to the event and transmitting data are of the same nature as described above.

Description of the 2 ⁿ application of the invention:

In the figure there is shown a top view of a recording unit according to the invention, and designated by the reference numeral. It is intended to ensure the recording of images and or sounds supplied by one or more cameras 2c installed in the peripheral zone of an emergency stop control unit.

In the configuration according to FIG. The, the camera turns out to be offset relative to the recording box le, with a view to its installation likely to offer the maximum of fields of vision, even discretion, around the intervention area.

The architectures will of course be adapted to the environments in which the housing 1c and / or the camera 2c may be used.

In this figure 1c, the information entering the housing 1 and emanating from the camera 2c is collected on an input socket 3c adapted to the output format of this camera 2c. The box locates it is connected, externally, to an emergency stop command 10c, of known and cited type, and positioned at the place required for easy access to any person.

Thus, a manual action on these emergency stop buttons (s) placed in the field of the type 2c camera (s), will activate via suitable relaying, the contactor binds, will cause the immediate transfer of the stored sequences in first temporary storage means 7c to second permanent storage means 8c, the respective characteristics of which are presented below. The description which follows therefore applies particularly to the storage of incoming video sequences by means of the camera 2c, assessed as relevant immediately and after the filmed sequence and declared automatically of interest by virtue of the control action of emergency stop by a person present in the field of vision of the camera.

This operating principle also proves to be just as suitable for memorizing captured sounds and various data with a view to their transmission according to the same principles.

The recording device comprises an electronic circuit 4c integrating the components necessary for the previously mentioned capture principle.

The registration system will be supplied with energy, depending on its mobility vocation or not, depending on the conventional means (mains, battery, etc.) via a reference socket 5c and possibly integrated power supply 6c, and is operational, as soon as it is connected via the connector 3c to the camera 2c. The camera 2c is therefore, from this moment in passive capture of video sequences and feeds continuously, by said video data, and by means of a compacting and formatting circuit 12c, a first memory block 7c.

As long as, according to the representation, the emergency stop command 10c is in the closed position, the device is in a state of continuous recording according to the FIFO principle, and therefore of memorizing the incoming sequences in first storage means 7c.

These first storage means 7c are of the volatile type, and continuously provide temporary storage of the incoming data emanating from said upstream devices.

Conventionally, the FIFO RAM memory 7c is constituted by a set of registers ensuring the continuous storage of the image data according to a “first in-first out” order.

When the FIFO RAM memory 7c is full, the memorization of a new image data causes the content of the registers to be shifted, so that recorded image data is output or overwritten in the event of exceeding the capacity of Memory.

As a variant, these first storage means 7c consist of a rewritable “CD-ROM” type disc, or a conventional PCMCIA card, or even other flash memory, or memory space on an internal or peripheral hard disk. The extension of these so-called first storage means 7c, in terms of capacity and / or for other functional reasons, such as for example the pursuit of capture during a reading phase, can lead to adding to these first storage means 7c, means of the same type in cascade 7'a, 7'b, 7'c ... The second storage means 8c are permanent storage means. They consist of a modular set of memory cards 8c of the static RAM type, coming to be fixed on the circuit 4c, and ensuring permanent storage of image data selected by a user and stored in the first storage means 7c.

These second permanent storage means 8 have a storage capacity greater than that of the first storage means 7c, can be constituted by rewritable storage means.

As a variant, these second storage means 8c consist of a rewritable “CD-ROM” type disc, or a conventional PCMCIA card, flash memory, or even integrated hard disk or peripheral. The extension of these so-called second storage means

8c, in terms of capacity, can lead to adding to these second storage means 8c, means of the same type in cascade 8 'a, 8'b, 8'c ...

At this stage, and depending on the configuration of this device, after suitable formatting in the circuit 12c, the recovery of the sequences recorded in the second storage means 8c, can take place in various ways, from a connection adapted in 13c : either by wire and or optical transmission to a dedicated and decentralized device of known type, such as monitors, computers, video recorders, and other video camcorders and video players, this device being capable of being installed in a service room available to the authorized attendant . At this time, the attendant will therefore have the relevant sequences preceding the alarm command. or by reading on the spot, by means of a reader adapted to the layout and carried by the attendant to note the emergency stop command. These devices can be of the same type as those already mentioned. As a variant, it is conceivable to decentralize from the housing the, the permanent storage means 8c, in order to limit their possible vulnerability in the face of culpable attacks. In another variant, it is likewise conceivable to have storage means 7c and 8c extractable for practical purposes and / or in tangible evidence of findings of events and justified facts or reprehensible and / or reprehensible facts. In an operating variant, it is conceivable not to use, at the discretion of the user, and for purposes of possibly reading a control, the only memory 7c by switching an adapted button 9c. This position, if the emergency stop command 10c is not deactivated and / or the camera 2c out of service, will gradually cause and at the end of the storage capacity of memories 7c of FIFO type possibly, the erasure of the data contained in said memories 7c.

Description of the 3 application of the invention:

There is shown in Figure Id is a sketch imagining symbols of places of use likely to be under surveillance.

One can easily imagine the installation of such a box, in the immediate vicinity of the sensitive area under surveillance, whether it is private ^" in a business for example, or whether it is an area accessible to the public in general (buildings, various monuments, shops, tourist sites ...,) areas likely to be exposed to the most diverse acts of malicious acts and attacks unfortunately.

FIG. 2d is a general view of an architecture of a recording device according to the invention, with an integrated camera.

FIG. 2d shows a top view of a recording unit according to the invention, and designated by the mark ld. It is intended to ensure the recording of images and or sounds provided by one or more 2d cameras installed in the peripheral area of a 4d detector (s) suitable for event (s) likely to occur. In the configuration according to FIG. 2d, the camera turns out to be integrated into the recording box ld, knowing that a solution with camera 2d remote to the device ld for an implantation capable of offering the maximum of fields of vision , or even discretion, around the intervention area, remains entirely possible.

The architectures will of course be adapted to the environments in which the ld box and / or the 2d camera may be used.

The recording device includes a 3d electronic circuit integrating the components necessary for the previously mentioned capture principle.

The recording system will be supplied with energy, depending on its location, according to conventional means (sector, battery, solar collectors, etc.) via a 9d benchmark socket and possibly integrated power supply unit OD, and is operational, as of its energy supply.

The reference box ld is connected, externally, to a detector 4d, of a specific type, known and cited, and positioned at the place required to capture, by its functionalities, the information likely to occur.

The camera 2d is therefore, from this moment in passive capture of video sequences and feeds continuously, by said video data, and by means of a compacting and formatting circuit 6d, a first temporary memory block 7d. As long as, according to the representation, the detector 4d is in the closed position, the device 1d is in a state of continuous recording according to the FIFO principle, and therefore of memorizing the incoming sequences in first memorizing means 7d. These first storage means 7d are of the volatile type, and continuously provide temporary storage of the incoming data emanating from said upstream devices.

Conventionally, the FIFO RAM memory 7d, is constituted by a set of registers ensuring the continuous storage of the image data according to a “first in-first out” order.

When the FIFO 7d RAM memory is full, the memorization of new image data causes the content of the registers to be shifted, so that recorded image data is output or overwritten in the event of exceeding the capacity of Memory.

As a variant, these first storage means 7d consist of a rewritable “CD-ROM” type disc, or a conventional PCMCIA card, or even other flash memory, or memory space on an internal or peripheral hard disk.

The extension of these so-called first storage means 7d, in terms of capacity and / or for other functional reasons, such as for example the pursuit of capture during a reading phase, can lead to adding to these first storage means 7d, means of the same type in cascade 7 'a, 7'b, 7'c ...

By a specific incident identified as such by the contactor 4d, the latter will activate via adapted relaying to the contactor 5d, the immediate transfer of the sequences stored in first temporary storage means 7d to second permanent storage means 8d.

The second storage means 8d are therefore permanent storage means. They consist of a modular set of 8d memory cards of the static RAM type, coming to be fixed on the 3d circuit, and ensuring permanent storage of image data selected by a user and stored in the first storage means 7d. These second permanent storage means 8d have a storage capacity greater than that of the first storage means 7d, can be constituted by rewritable storage means. As a variant, these second storage means 8d consist of a rewritable “CD-ROM” type disc, or a conventional PCMCIA card, flash memory, or even integrated hard disk or peripheral.

The extension of these so-called second storage means 8d, in terms of capacity, can lead to adding to these second storage means 8d, means of the same type in cascade 8'a, 8'b, 8'c ...

At this stage, and depending on the configuration of this device, after suitable formatting in the circuit 6d, the recovery of the sequences recorded in the second storage means 8d, can take place in various ways, from a connection adapted in lld : either by wired and or optical transmission to a dedicated and decentralized device of known type, such as monitors, computers, video recorders, and other camcorders and video players ... this device is likely to be installed in a service room available of the authorized agent. At this time, the attendant will therefore have the relevant sequences preceding the activation of the detector 4d. - or by reading on the spot, by means of a reader adapted to the layout and carried by the official responsible for acknowledging the declared accident. These devices can be of the same type as those already mentioned.

As a variant, it is conceivable to decentralize from the box ld, the permanent storage means 8d, in order to limit their possible vulnerability.

In another variant, it is likewise conceivable to have storage means 7d and 8d extractable for practical purposes and / or in tangible proofs of findings justified events and facts or reprehensible and / or reprehensible facts.

In an operating variant, it is possible to use, at the discretion of the intervention workers, the switch 12d in: a first position, for the automatic transfer of the sequences emanating from the first storage means 7d to the second storage means 8d , a second position, and for the purpose of reading a control, possibly only the first storage means 7d. This position, if the control of the detector 4d is not deactivated and / or the camera 2d out of service, will gradually cause and at the end of the storage capacity of the memories 7d of FIFO type possibly, the erasure of the data contained in said memories 7d. in a third position, the reading of the content of the first storage means 7d and the simultaneous recording of said content to the second storage means 8d.

Description of the 4 ^{* Leme} Application of the Invention: As described in FIG. The and FIG. 2e, and according to a front elevation view, the device would appear ___ mainly as an assembly integrating it: - a 2nd sequence display screen read and / or record

- a 3rd control panel of possible sequences

- one (s) - 4th speaker (s)

- a reception stand 5e, possibly removable, and equipped with slots 6e for receiving extractable memories 7e previously recorded.

- a reception stand 8e, possibly removable, and equipped with slots 9e for receiving extractable memories 10e capable of supporting a new recording - linked input interfaces adapted to the outputs available on external devices (computers, camcorders, video recorders, televisions, portable players, mobile phone, etc.)

- 12e output interfaces adapted to the same types of devices

- a 19th handle to facilitate its transport and mobility.

In FIG. 2e, there is shown schematically a functional top view of a recording unit according to the invention, and designated by the reference number le. It is intended to ensure the recording of images and or sounds supplied mainly by flash memories but just as well by a television set, video recorder, camcorder, DVD players, mobile phone, computer connected to Internet, decoder of TV programs. In this FIG. 2e, the information entering the casing le and emanating from the devices mentioned, are collected on an input socket link adapted to the output format of these devices of known type and not shown in said figure.

With a view to their reading processing, the flash memories 7e are inserted into slots 6e in mechanical format adapted to their geometry. Incoming information from flash memories 7e is processed upon insertion into the reception stand 5e, following a path similar to that emanating from the external devices mentioned. The extractable 5th reception stands have internal connections and are adapted to the formats of the flash memories inserted in the 6th positioning slots.

These same extractable reception stands 5e are provided with external connections necessary for the transfer of data from the memories 7 to the processing unit 13e.

As a variant, it is conceivable to equip the device only with slots 6e for positioning memories 7e, that is to say to dispense with a removable stand 5e, the memory connection functions 7e for transfer to the processing unit 13e, remaining of the same type. As a variant, the reception stand could be equipped with a “host” station (s), in order to cover the mechanical and connection formats of the various memory cards currently existing on the market. The extractable 8th reception stand has internal connections and are adapted to the formats of the flash memories introduced into the 9th positioning slots. '

This same extractable reception stand 8e, is provided with external connections necessary for the recovery of data emanating from memories 7e via the processing unit 13e and memory 16e.

As a variant, it is conceivable to equip the device only with slots 9e for positioning the extractable memories 10e, that is to say to dispense with an extractable reception stand 8e, the memory connection functions 10th for data recovery, remaining of the same type.

As a variant, the reception stand 5e could be equipped with a “host” station (s), in order to cover the mechanical and connection formats of the various memory cards currently existing on the market.

An electronic circuit 13e will in particular and possibly integrate: a microprocessor for processing, addressing and management of incoming and outgoing data - a circuit for compressing and decompressing images

- an analog / digital converter

- a display screen manager

- An audio processing and amplification circuit The recording device also includes an electronic circuit 14e integrating the components necessary for the previously mentioned principle of capture.

The box being supplied with energy according to conventional means (mains, battery, etc.) and integrated power supply unit 15e, is operational, after insertion of a flash memory to be viewed and / or saved 7th, or connection to the aforementioned upstream devices, as soon as it is activated on the appropriate command on the control panel 3e. It is obvious that the read and / or recording operations from the aforementioned upstream devices require their prior commissioning.

After passing through and processing in the electronic circuit 13e, the apparatus is therefore, from this instant, in a phase of continuous recording according to the FIFO principle, and therefore of memorizing the incoming sequences in first memorizing means 16e.

These first storage means 16e are of the volatile type, and continuously provide temporary storage of the incoming data emanating from said upstream devices.

Conventionally, the FIFO RAM memory 16e is constituted by a set of registers ensuring the continuous storage of the image data according to a “first in-first out” order. When the FIFO RAM memory 16e is full, the memorization of new image data causes the content of the registers to be shifted, so that recorded image data is output or overwritten in the event of exceeding the capacity of Memory. As a variant, these first storage means 16 consist of a rewritable “CD-ROM” type disc, or a conventional PCMCIA card, or even other flash memory, or memory space on an internal or peripheral hard disk.

The extension of these so-called first storage means 16e, in terms of capacity and / or for other functional reasons, such as for example the pursuit of capture during a reading phase, can lead to adding to these first storage means 16th, means of the same type in cascade 16 'a, 16'b, 16' c ... The second storage means 10e are permanent storage means, extractable and cited. They come to connect to the circuit 14e, owing to their insertion in the slot 9e fitted to the reception stand 8e, to ensure permanent storage of image data selected by a user and stored in the first memory means 16e.

These second permanent storage means 10e preferably have a storage capacity greater than that of the first storage means 16e, and can be constituted by rewritable storage means.

As a variant, these second storage means 10e consist of a rewritable “CD-ROM” type disc, or a conventional PCMCIA card, flash memory, or even integrated hard disk or peripheral.

The extension of these so-called second storage means 10e, in terms of capacity, can lead to adding to these second storage means 10e, means of the same type in cascade 10 ′ a, 10 ′ b, 10 ′ c ... The housing identifies it, externally, a push button 17e easily accessible by the user, and the function of which is indicated below.

This same box can be equipped with a switch 18 ^e , the positions of which will allow: In a first position of the switch 18, manual action on this push button 17th will cause the immediate transfer of the sequences stored in the first temporary storage means 16th to the second permanent storage means 10e, thereby causing the selective capture of sequences prior to the recording command, since the sequences will have been, in the instant immediately prior to the recording decision, previously displayed on the screen 2nd.

In a second position of the switch 18e, the displayed sequences emanating from the extractable memories 7e, will be fully copied and therefore saved in the memories 10e.

This possibility presents particularly as a variant of the architecture of the apparatus being able to dispense with the first temporary storage means 16th

In a third position of the switch 18e, the sequences emanating from the extractable memories 7e will be essentially subjected to direct reading on the screen 2e.

This possibility presents particularly as a variant of device architecture, of transforming it into a simple version of device for reading memories on an integrated screen.

At the end of this capture of sequences stored in the means 10e, it will be possible to read and view the stored sequences 10e, by extracting these memories from the reception stand 8e, to insert them in the reception stand 5e.

It is in fact known that the control panel 3e of the box 1c is capable of incorporating the sequence commands commonly provided on devices of this family, such as unfolding frame by frame, forward and reverse, pause, erase.

Description of the application of the invention: FIG. 1f is a sketch imagining the installation on traffic lights and collision between two vehicles. One can easily imagine the installation of such a box, on a dedicated support or on the same sign in place.

Furthermore, FIG. 2f is a general view of an architecture of a recording device according to the invention, with an integrated camera.

In Figure 2f there is shown a top view of a recording unit according to the invention, and designated by the reference lf. It is intended to ensure the recording of images and or sounds supplied by one or more 2f cameras installed in this box.

In a variant configuration, it is conceivable to have one or more camera (s) remote from the lf recording box, with a view to its (their) location (s) likely (s) to offer the maximum of fields of vision, around the area under surveillance.

The architectures will of course be adapted to the environments in which the lf box and / or the 2f camera are likely to be used.

The box marked lf is connected, externally, to a detector 4f, a detector which could be of the type:

Push button type punch, located within the reach of any person wishing to initiate the registration procedure afterwards (witness, actors, passerby ...),

Contactor coupled to a device in place, such as a radar cell, light beam, initially installed for the statement of offense cited above.

As a variant, the triggering of this detector 4f, could be activated according to a known computer process, consisting of a prolonged and unusual presence of an object, in this case the vehicle (s) involved in the accident, in a fields known and memorized by computer, under camera control.

This detector 4f, located in the camera circuit 2f - electronic circuit 6f - first storage means 7f, will cause, by its action relayed by the contact 5f, the recording of the sequences emanating from the first temporary storage means 7f to second storage means permanent 8f. In addition to this punch-type control device f, and in order to counteract any untimely recording control acts, it would be conceivable to equip the object of the invention with an hour meter (clock internal of electronic circuit 6f for example) capable of automatically erasing all information recorded in the second storage means 8f, if it has not been recovered within an intervention period considered normal by the authorized persons, in the event of an accident. The description which follows therefore applies particularly to the storage of incoming video sequences by means of the camera 2f, assessed as relevant immediately and after the filmed sequence and automatically declared of interest due to the control action 4f.

This operating principle also proves to be just as suitable for memorizing captured sounds and various data with a view to their transmission according to the same principles. The recording device comprises an electronic circuit 3f integrating the components necessary for the previously mentioned capture principle.

The recording system will be supplied with energy according to conventional means (mains, battery, solar collectors, etc.) via a 9f benchmark socket and possibly integrated 10f power supply unit, and will be operational as soon as the camera 2f.

The camera 2f is therefore, from this moment in passive capture of video sequences and feeds continuously, by said video data, and by means of a compacting and formatting circuit 6f, a first memory block 7f.

As long as, according to the representation, the detector 4f is in the closed position, the apparatus lf is in a state of continuous recording according to the FIFO principle, and therefore of memorizing the incoming sequences in first memorizing means 7f.

These first storage means 7f are of the volatile type, and continuously provide temporary storage of the incoming data emanating from said upstream devices. Conventionally, the FIFO RAM memory 7f is constituted by a set of registers ensuring the continuous storage of the image data according to a “first in-first out” order. When the FIFO 7f RAM memory is full, the memorization of a new image data causes the content of the registers to be shifted, so that recorded image data is output or overwritten in the event of exceeding the capacity of Memory. As a variant, these first storage means 7f consist of a rewritable “CD-ROM” type disc, or a conventional PCMCIA card, or even other flash memory, or memory space on an internal or peripheral hard disk.

The extension of these so-called first storage means 7f, in terms of capacity and / or for other functional reasons, such as for example the pursuit of capture during a reading phase, can lead to adding to these first storage means 7f, means of the same type in cascade 7'a, 7'b, 7'c ... The second storage means 8f are permanent storage means. They consist of a modular set of memory cards 8f of static RAM type, which are fixed on the circuit 4f, and ensuring permanent storage of image data selected by a user and stored in the first memory means 7f.

These second permanent storage means 8f have a storage capacity greater than that of the first storage means 7f, can be constituted by rewritable storage means. As a variant, these second storage means 8f consist of a rewritable “CD-ROM” type disc, or a conventional PCMCIA card, flash memory, or even integrated hard disk or peripheral.

The extension of these so-called second storage means 8f, in terms of capacity, can lead to adding to these second memory means 8f, means of the same type in cascade 8 'a, 8'b, 8'c ...

At this stage, and depending on the configuration of this device, after suitable formatting in the circuit 6f, the recovery of the sequences recorded in the second storage means 8f, can take place in various ways, from a connection adapted in llf :

- either by wire and or optical transmission to a dedicated and decentralized device of known type, such as monitors, computers, video recorders, and other video camcorders and video players, this device being capable of being installed in a service room available to the authorized personnel. At that time, the authorized person will therefore have relevant sequences relating to the circumstances and the chronology of the accident's course. either by reading on the spot, by means of a reader adapted to the layout and carried by the person empowered to ascertain the facts. These devices can be of the same type as those already mentioned. As a variant, it is conceivable to decentralize from the box lf, the permanent storage means 8f, in order to limit their access and possible vulnerability.

In another variant, it is likewise conceivable to have storage means 7f and 8f extractable for practical purposes and / or in tangible proofs of reports of events and justified facts or reprehensible and / or reprehensible facts.

In an operating variant, it is possible to use, at the discretion of the intervention workers, the switch 12f in: a first position, for the automatic transfer of the sequences emanating from the first storage means 7f to the second storage means 8f , a second position, and for the purposes of reading a check, possibly only the first means of memorization 7f. This position, if the control of the detector 4f is not deactivated and / or the camera 2f out of service, will gradually cause and at the end of the storage capacity of memories 7f of FIFO type possibly, the erasure of the data contained in said memories 7f, in a third position, the reading of the content of the first storage means 7f and the simultaneous recording of said content to the second storage means 8f.

Description of the 6 ^th application of the invention: In FIG. 2g there is shown a top view of a recording box according to the invention, and designated by the reference lg. It is intended to ensure the recording of images and or sounds provided by one or more onboard and / or deported cameras 2g in a vehicle, plane and other means of public or private transport.

In a configuration, it can be envisaged to produce this housing made of resistant materials and to the principles of structure and external and internal architecture meeting the most demanding parameters and adapted to the hostile environments in which it will be likely to be confronted (explosion, violent acceleration and deceleration, overpressure, shock, immersion, fire ...). This type of configuration, in the description which follows, would then appear to the recording box 1 to be a video "black box".

It should be noted that, by its particularity of capturing digital data, this recording unit could collect other information of the various measurement type.

In this figure 2g, the box lg supports a camera 2g which transmits the collected images to the module 6g of the electronic circuit 3g via a contactor 4g. The description which follows applies to the storage of incoming images by means of this 2g camera, but can of course also be applied to the storage of sounds received and of various data arriving on a suitable connector upstream of the contactor. 4g, in a form and format of data capable of being processed by the 6g circuit.

The recording device comprises an electronic circuit 3g integrating the components necessary for the principle of capture previously recalled. The recording system being supplied with energy according to conventional means (mains, battery ...) via a 9g benchmark socket and possibly integrated power supply

10g, is operational when the 4g contactor is connected.

The device is therefore, from this moment, in a continuous recording phase according to the FIFO principle, and therefore for memorizing the incoming sequences in first memorizing means 7g, after the functions of decoding / coding / possible compression of said incoming data via the 6g circuit possibly integrating a microprocessor and other data management circuit.

These first storage means 7g are of the volatile type, and continuously provide temporary storage of the incoming data emanating from said upstream devices, and which specifically according to FIG. 2g, emanate from the camera 2g. Conventionally, the FIFO RAM memory 7g is constituted by a set of registers ensuring the continuous storage of the image data in a “first in-first out” order.

When the FIFO 7g RAM memory is full, the memorization of new image data causes the content of the registers to be shifted, so that recorded image data is output or overwritten in the event of exceeding the capacity of Memory.

As a variant, these first storage means 7g consist of a rewritable “CD-ROM” type disc, or a conventional PCMCIA card, or even other flash memory, or memory space on an internal or peripheral hard disk.

The extension of these so-called first storage means 7g, in terms of capacity and / or for other functional reasons, such as for example the pursuit of capture during a reading phase, can lead to adding to these first storage means 7g, means of the same type in cascade 7 'a, 7'b, 7'c ...

The second storage means 8 are permanent storage means. They consist of a modular set of 8g memory cards of the static RAM type, which are fixed on the 3g circuit, and ensuring permanent storage of image data selected automatically and / or by a user and stored in the first means of memorization 7g.

These second permanent storage means 8g have a storage capacity greater than that of the first storage means 7g, can be constituted by rewritable storage means. As a variant, these second storage means 8g consist of a rewritable “CD-ROM” type disc, or a conventional PCMCIA card, flash memory, or even integrated hard disk or peripheral.

The extension of these so-called second storage means 8g, in terms of capacity, can lead to adding to these second storage means 8g, means of the same type in cascade 8 'a, 8'b, 8'c ...

The reference unit lg is connected, externally, to a detector or detectors 4g adapted to the circumstances generating possible events.

This is the case for overvoltage, opening, pressure, temperature, presence, shock, and other push button type detectors ... whose actions relayed by suitable equipment to the 5g contactor, will cause the immediate transfer of the sequences stored in the first temporary storage means 7g to the second permanent storage means 8g, thereby causing the capture of sequences prior to the recording command, with a view to their subsequent viewing and / or conservation in the form of various storage.

As a variant, the control of data transfer from the memories 7g to the permanent storage means 8g can be carried out manually at the convenience of an informed operator, via a switch 12g. As a variant, and according to FIG. 3g, this camera 2g could be deported from the box lg, in order to facilitate the capture of events in the most inaccessible places and / or with maximum discretion.

This would be the case, for example, in an airplane, in the baggage compartment, in the landing gear compartment, passenger cabin ... whereas, in a land vehicle, all or part of the housing would be integrated in a mechanical compartment , passenger compartment, etc.

In this case, and according to the same figure 3g, the detector 4g can be connected to the box lg by wired means or by remote communication systems such as infrared ray, radio, optical beam, etc.

At the end of this capture of sequences stored in the 8g means, it will be possible: - either to recover this video black box, with a view to reading and recovering images and sounds revealing the circumstances immediately prior to the event and / or the accident found, and stored in 8g,

- or extract, if they are extractable and for reading and exploitation, the permanent storage means 8g.

In a variant configuration, it is possible to equip the housing with a 12g switch whose positions will allow: - in a first position of the 12g switch, and this is the basic capture function, the triggering of the 4g detector will cause, via suitable relaying to the 5g contact, the immediate transfer of the sequences stored in the first temporary storage means 7g to the second permanent storage means 8g, thereby causing the capture of sequences prior to the recording command, with a view to their subsequent viewing and / or conservation in the form of various storage. - in a second position of the switch 12g, the triggering of the detector 4g will cause, via a suitable relay to the contact 5g, and via a suitable management in the circuit 6g, an immediate looping of the sequences stored in the first temporary storage means 7g up to 'at their storage capacity limit. This will also allow, via the appropriate management in circuit 6g, to transfer this information temporarily stored in 7g, to the output connector 11g for viewing to the connected device. In a third position of the switch 12g provided at the request of an informed operator, the sequences stored in the first storage means 7g will be automatically transferred to the second permanent storage means 8g, thereby causing the lasting capture of sequences prior to the recording command, with a view to their subsequent viewing and / or conservation in the form of various storage.

By its compactness and integration of functions, this equipment will prove to be particularly suitable for cockpits, on-board mechanical and electronic compartments, passenger cabin, etc., for the particular purpose of viewing events prior to an incident and / or accident, and / or terrorist act. Description η ^{£ ea i} application of the invention:

In Figure lh there is shown a top view of a recording unit according to the invention, and designated by the reference lh. It is intended to ensure the recording of images and or sounds provided by a television, video recorder, camcorder, DVD players, mobile phone, computer connected to the Internet, decoder of TV programs .....

In this figure lh, the information entering the housing lh and emanating from the devices mentioned, are collected on an input socket 2h adapted to the output format of these devices of known type and not shown in said figure.

The description which follows applies to the storage of incoming images by means of this input connector 2, but can of course also be applied to the storage of sounds received and of various data.

The box being supplied with energy according to conventional means (mains, battery, etc.) via a 4h reference socket and integrated 5h power supply, is operational, as soon as it is connected via the 2h connector to / from upstream devices (TV, video recorders, and others such as already mentioned ...), and as soon as these devices are put into operation.

The device is therefore, from this moment, in a continuous recording phase according to the FIFO principle, and therefore for memorizing the incoming sequences in first 7h memorization means, after the functions of decoding / coding / possible compression of said incoming data via the 6h circuit which also includes a microprocessor and other data management and distribution circuit. These first storage means 7h are of the volatile type, and continuously provide temporary storage of the incoming data emanating from said upstream devices.

Conventionally, RAM memory. FIFO 7h, is constituted by a set of registers ensuring continuously the storage of image data in a ^λ first-in-first-out order ".

When the FIFO 7h RAM memory is full, the memorization of new image data causes the content of the registers to be shifted, so that recorded image data is output or overwritten in the event of exceeding the capacity of Memory.

As a variant, these first 7h storage means consist of a rewritable "CD-ROM" type disc, or a conventional PCMCIA card, or even other flash memory, or memory space on an internal or peripheral hard disk.

The extension of these so-called first storage means 7h, in terms of capacity and / or for other functional reasons, such as for example the pursuit of capture during a reading phase, can lead to adding to these first storage means 7h, means of the same type in cascade 7 'a, 7'b, 7'c ...

The second 8h storage means are permanent storage means. They consist of a modular set of 8h RAM type memory cards. static, coming to be fixed on the circuit 3h, and ensuring a permanent storage of image data selected by a user and memorized in the first means of memorization 7h. These second permanent storage means 8h have a storage capacity greater than that of the first storage means 7h, can be constituted by rewritable storage means.

As a variant, these second 8h storage means consist of a rewritable "CD-ROM" type disc, or a conventional PCMCIA card, flash memory, or even integrated hard disk or peripheral.

The extension of these so-called first 8-hour storage means, in terms of capacity, can lead to adding to these first 8h storage means, means of the same type in cascade 8 'a, 8'b, 8'c ...

The reference box lh has, externally, a push button 9h easily accessible by the user. This same box can be equipped with a 10h switch whose positions will allow:

A. In a first position of the 10h switch, manual action on this push button 9h will cause, via suitable relaying, the immediate transfer of the sequences stored in the first temporary storage means 7h to the second permanent storage means 8h, causing this makes the capture of sequences prior to the recording command, with a view to their subsequent viewing and / or conservation in the form of various storages. B. In a second position of the switch 10h, via data management in the electronic circuit 6h, prohibiting the entry of new data in the first temporary storage means 7h, the sequences stored in said first storage means 7h, can be read in a loop to the device connected in llh.

Alternatively, this push button 9h can be replaced, remotely wired remotely, and / or doubled with a wireless remote control fitted to the lh box. Another variant would consist in equipping existing remote controls with this specific control function.

This scenario would lead to the integration on the unit lh of a 12h receiver adapted to this remote control.

At the end of this capture of sequences stored in the means 7h and 8h, it will be possible: - either to read and view the sequences memorized in 7h or 8h, by pressing the adapted control button 13h, the reading is operating then by the transfer of data, possibly uncompressed and formatted in a suitable circuit 6h, to specific output connectors llh, themselves connected to existing reading means such as TV, VCRs, camcorders, and other devices already listed.

- either to operate the sequences commonly provided by this type of device such as unfolding frame by frame, forward and reverse, pause, erase, ...

In addition and on the front of this box lh, and as shown in Figure 2h, access to the following functions would be integrated, namely:

- a 12h reception cell of the capture sequence by remote control

- a button to read the captured sequences at 1 p.m. a button to backspace the captured sequences at 2 p.m. - a command to erase 15 hours of the sequences captured on the permanent memory 8 a.m.

- a stop button on the image 4 p.m. and / or pause

- a 17h slot (s) for loading 8h memories which may be extractable and interchangeable - one / 11h output connector (s) in a format suitable for the device concerned, for viewing these sequences and / or recording them.

Description of the 8 ^ * application of the invention: In this FIG. 3i, the housing li comprises a data input port 14i emanating from the device for taking pictures via the connector 2i.

These data are then processed in an electronic circuit 15i which notably and possibly includes: ^" a module for converting data 16i into a format suitable for their further processing,

• a data compression module 17i,

A data processing manager 18i, of the microprocessor type for example, a first temporary storage area 19i, A command lOi for transferring data from these first temporary storage means 19i to permanent storage means 7i,

A module 20i for decompressing the data contained in the first storage means 19i and the second storage means 7i,

A module 21i for converting this data for further processing and / or reading,

• an output port 22i for further processing and / or reading of the data stored in the various storage means 7i and / or 19i.

The description which follows applies to the storage of incoming images by means of a vision device and, for example, of type 3i presented in figure 31-li. The capture box being supplied with energy according to conventional means (mains, battery, etc.) via a reference point 23i and possibly integrated power supply unit 24i, is operational, for example as soon as the connector 2i is connected, but can be 'Obviously, following a switch fitted to the device.

As a variant and / or as a complement, the capture unit can be supplied with energy by accumulators of the battery and / or non-rechargeable type.

The apparatus is therefore, from this instant, in a continuous recording phase according to the FIFO principle, and therefore for memorizing the incoming sequences in first memorizing means 19i, after the functions of decoding / coding / possible compression of said incoming data via connector 14i in electronic circuit 15i.

These first storage means 19i are of the volatile type, and continuously provide temporary storage of the incoming data emanating from said upstream devices.

Conventionally, the FIFO RAM memory 19i, is constituted by a set of registers ensuring continuously the storage of image data in a "first in first out" order.

When the FIFO RAM memory 19i is full, the memorization of new image data causes the content of the registers to be shifted, so that recorded image data is output or overwritten in the event of exceeding the capacity of Memory.

As a variant, these first storage means 19i consist of a rewritable “CD-ROM” type disc, or a conventional PCMCIA card, or even other flash memory, or memory space on an internal or peripheral hard disk.

The extension of these so-called first storage means 19i, in terms of capacity and / or for other functional reasons, such as for example the pursuit of capture during a reading phase, can lead to adding to these first storage means 19i, means of the same type in cascade 19 'a, 19'b, 19' c ...

The second storage means 7i are permanent storage means. They consist of a modular set of memory cards 7i of the static RAM type, coming to connect to the circuit 15i, and ensuring permanent storage of image data selected automatically and / or by a user and stored in the first means of memorization 19i. These second permanent storage means 7i have a storage capacity greater than that of the first storage means 19i, can be constituted by rewritable storage means.

As a variant, these second storage means 7i consist of a rewritable “CD-ROM” type disc, or a conventional PCMCIA card, flash memory, or even integrated hard disk or peripheral.

The extension of these so-called first storage means 7i, in terms of capacity, can lead to add to these first storage means 7i, means of the same type in cascade 7 'a, 7'b, 7'c ...

Upon the occurrence of an event of interest, the command to transfer data from the memories 19i to the permanent storage means 7i, is carried out manually at the convenience of the user of the equipment, via a switch law.

As a variant, the reference unit li can be connected, externally, to a detector or detectors adapted to the circumstances generating possible events.

This is the case for opening, presence and other specific functionalities detectors, the actions of which relayed by suitable equipment to the contactor 10, will cause the immediate transfer of the sequences stored in the first temporary storage means 19i to the second permanent storage means 7i, thereby causing the capture of sequences prior to the recording command, with a view to their subsequent viewing and / or conservation in the form of various storage. This would be the case, for example, during various observations, cases of the presence of an animal in its lair, stealthy passages of shooting stars, generation of untimely infrared.

At the end of this capture of sequences memorized in the means 7i, it will be possible: either to view immediately, the facts and circumstances immediately prior to the sequence experienced and / or unnoticed in whole or in part,

- or extract, if they are extractable and for reading and exploitation, the permanent storage means 7i.

In a variant configuration, it is possible to equip the capture unit li with a specific command whose position will allow, and without permanent storage in 7i, and after processing in the same circuits implanted in the electronic card 15i, viewing the sequences stored in 19i, in order to assess, if necessary, the relevance of their storage in the means adapted in 7i. In another construction variant, the electronic equipment which is mentioned in the capture box li, can be integrated into the vision means as mentioned, in order to reproduce the functionalities described. By its compactness and integration of functions, this equipment will prove to be particularly suitable for enthusiasts of observation and other professionals for the purposes of research and other investigations, anxious to seize the furtive moment likely to escape them. It should be noted that, in the context of the description of the invention or of its applications, the term "device" must be understood as equivalent to the term "system".

In particular, it is not necessary that the various elements of a device defined by the invention be included in the same housing or the same physical enclosure.

In other words, these different elements can be deported, that is to say remotely, while cooperating in accordance with the invention directly or indirectly via transmission means such as radio waves, cables, etc.

Furthermore, it should also be noted that the descriptions made above relate to images and / or sounds. However, it is clear that the invention can be implemented with any type of multimedia data such as a video.

Claims

1. A multimedia data recording device associated with a multimedia data taking device, this device comprising means for storing data delivered by the multimedia data taking device and a unit for processing said data with a view to their conversion into a format suitable for their storage in the storage means, characterized in that the storage means comprise first means for temporary and continuous storage of the data delivered by the multimedia data taking device and second means for permanent storage of data temporarily stored in said first storage means, and in that it comprises means for selective transfer of data from said first storage means to said second storage means, for the permanent recording of at least one scene captured by the multimedia data taking device dia and temporarily stored in the first storage means.

2. Device comprising a multimedia data recording device according to claim 1 allowing an operator to trigger a capture of a video sequence in whole or in part before said triggering of said capture, in particular a video sequence representing the instants preceding and following the fall of a mountain hiker or the assault of a person on a train; said recording device comprising: - a first terminal (1b) equipped with video capture means (2b), in particular a mobile telephone integrating a video camera; said video capture means (2b) being intended to capture video sequences, in particular sequences relating to a surveillance object such as a specific person or place; said first terminal (lb) comprising: - first storage means (7b), intended for storing continuously and temporarily said video sequences thus captured; said first storage means

(7b) comprising a volatile memory area with a capacity suitable for memorizing sliding fractions and of determined duration of said video sequences thus captured; said storage being carried out in particular according to a FIFO procedure

(first entry first exit); said first terminal (lb) further comprising:

- a control member (12b) for:

• select a particular video sequence from said video sequences thus memorized by said first memory means (7b), in particular the images of the moments preceding and following the fall of a hiker in the mountains or the assault of a person on a train ,

• transfer said particular video sequence to second storage means (8b) of said first terminal (lb), intended to permanently store, in whole or in part, said particular video sequence thus selected; said first terminal (lb) further comprising:

- A first transmission and reception module, in particular of the telephone type, for connecting said first terminal (lb) to a communication network, in particular to a mobile telephone network; said recording device further comprising a second terminal, in particular a mobile telephone, remote from said first terminal (1b); said second terminal comprising: a second transmission and reception module, in particular of the telephone type, for connecting said second terminal to said first terminal (1b), in particular via the mobile telephone network; said first transmission and reception module transmitting to said second transmission and reception module of said second terminal, via said communication network, said particular video sequence thus memorized; said recording device further comprising reading means, in particular located in said second terminal, making it possible to view said particular video sequence thus stored by said second storage means (8b);

(so that the capture of the particularly interesting video sequence is remotely controlled, memorized and then transferred via the communication network with a view to being viewed and analyzed remotely).

3. Device according to claim 2; said recording device further comprising:

connection means for connecting said first terminal (1b) to a sensor, in particular a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, a building alarm,

reception means, associated with said connection means, intended to receive alert information from said sensor, in particular the triggering of a building alarm, an alert linked to an abnormal temperature or pressure,

- control means, activated automatically by said reception means, as a function of said alert information; said control means making it possible to:

Automatically selecting a second particular video sequence from said video sequences thus memorized by said first storage means (7b), in particular a video sequence starting one minute before and ending one minute after receipt of said alert information,

• order a transfer of said second particular video sequence to said second storage means

(8b);

(so that the storage of the second particular video sequence is carried out automatically, in connection with the occurrence of a particular event).

4. Device comprising a multimedia data recording device according to claim 1 intended to make it possible to capture and restore a video sequence to retrace the circumstances of the triggering of an alert device (10c), in particular the triggering of a train emergency stop command; said recording device comprising: video capture means (2c), in particular a video camera, intended to capture video sequences representing said alert device (10c) and / or its immediate environment, first storage means (7c ), intended to store continuously and temporarily said video sequences thus captured; said first storage means (7c) comprising a volatile memory area with a capacity suitable for storing sliding fractions and of determined duration of said video sequences thus captured; said storage being carried out in particular according to a FIFO procedure (first input first output); said recording device further comprising: connection means for connecting said recording device (le) to said alert device (10c), in particular to an emergency stop command of a train, means for detection, associated with said connection means, for detecting an actuation of said alert device (10c), in particular the actuation by a traveler of the emergency stop command of a train, the control means, activated so automatic by said detection means, as a function of said actuation of said alert device (10c); said control means making it possible to:

• select a particular video sequence among said video sequences thus memorized by said first storage means (7c), in particular a video sequence beginning one minute before and ending one minute after said actuation of said alert device (10c),

• controlling a transfer of said particular video sequence to second storage means (8c), intended to permanently store, in whole or in part, said particular video sequence thus selected; said recording device (le) being associated with playback means allowing an operator to view said particular video sequence thus stored by said second storage means (8c); so that the sole triggering of the alert device causes the automatic storage of a video sequence, retracing the circumstances of the triggering of the alert device, the video sequence being able to be viewed and analyzed, in particular within the framework of an investigation.

5. Device comprising a multimedia data recording device according to claim 1 in order to allow an operator to capture and reproduce a video sequence retracing the circumstances of an event occurring at a workplace, in particular an accident or an explosion occurred at a workplace, a malicious intrusion into a factory or warehouse; said recording device (ld) comprising:

- video capture means (2d), in particular video cameras, intended for capturing video sequences relating to said workplace, in particular images of an employee's workstation, first storage means (7d), intended to store continuously and temporarily said video sequences thus captured; said first storage means (7d) comprising a volatile memory area with a capacity suitable for storing sliding fractions and of determined duration of said video sequences thus captured; said storage being carried out in particular according to a FIFO procedure (first input first output); said recording device (ld) further comprising:

- a control member, actuated by said operator, making it possible to:

Select a particular video sequence from said video sequences thus memorized by said first storage means (7d), in particular the images of an accident or an explosion which occurred at said workplace,

• controlling a transfer of said particular video sequence to second storage means (8d), intended to permanently store, in whole or in part, said particular video sequence thus selected; said recording device (ld) being associated with reading means allowing said operator to view said particular video sequence thus stored by said second storage means (8d);

(so that the particularly interesting video sequence, retracing the circumstances of a workplace event, in particular an accident at a workplace, a malicious intrusion in a factory or in a warehouse, is memorized in the perspective to be viewed and analyzed a posteriori).

6. Device according to claim 5; said recording device (ld) further comprising: connection means for connecting said recording device to a sensor, in particular a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, a building alarm, reception means, associated with said connection means, intended to receive alert information from said sensor, in particular the triggering of a building alarm, an alert linked to an abnormal temperature or pressure, control means, activated automatically by said means reception, according to said alert information; said control means making it possible to: Automatically selecting a second particular video sequence from said video sequences thus memorized by said first storage means (7d), in particular a video sequence starting one minute before and ending one minute after receipt of said alert information,

(8d); so that the storage of said second particular video sequence is carried out automatically, in connection with the occurrence of a particular event.

7. Device comprising an apparatus according to claim 1 for enabling user-friendly sharing and archiving of multimedia data; said multimedia data coming from a plurality of recording media, in particular of the removable flash memory type; said mobile reading and recording device comprising:

means for reading said multimedia data coming from said plurality of recording media,

- display means (2e) of said multimedia data, associated with said reading means, in particular a display screen (2e) and loudspeakers, means for recording said multimedia data, in particular on removable flash memory media ; said recording means comprising:

duplication means making it possible to duplicate all or part of said multimedia data, and / or

- selective duplication means making it possible to memorize said multimedia data a posteriori and selectively; said mobile reading and recording device further comprising:

- input interfaces (lie) and / or output interfaces (12e), intended to connect said mobile reading (le) and recording device to peripheral devices, in particular to computer equipment, to video recorders, digital cameras; said mobile reading and recording device further comprising:

- archiving means (8e), in particular extractable, of said multimedia data; said archiving means being in the form of locations integrated into said mobile reading and recording device, in particular in the form of storage locations intended to receive recording media, in particular extractable flash memories ; said mobile reading and recording device further comprising:

- transport means (19th), in particular a transport handle, intended to allow easy mobility of said mobile reading (le) and recording device, so that the mobile reading (le) and recording device can be used as a universal mobile device for reading and storing videos, photos and music.

8. Device, comprising an apparatus according to claim 1 in order to allow an operator to capture and restore a video sequence retracing the circumstances of an event which occurred in a determined environment, in particular an accident between two vehicles at a road junction, a stop sign not respected by a motorist; said recording device (lf) comprising: video capture means (2f), in particular video cameras, intended to capture relative video sequences said determined environment, in particular the images of a dangerous crossroads, of the first storage means (7f), intended to store continuously and temporarily said video sequences thus captured; said first storage means (7f) comprising a volatile memory area with a capacity suitable for storing sliding fractions and of determined duration of said video sequences thus captured; said storage being carried out in particular according to a FIFO procedure (first input first output); said recording device (lf) further comprising: a control member making it possible to:

• select a particular video sequence from said video sequences thus memorized by said first memory means (7f), in particular the images of an accident between two vehicles at a road junction, the crossing of a "stop" sign not respected by a driver,

• controlling a transfer of said particular video sequence to second storage means (8f), intended to permanently store, in whole or in part, said particular video sequence thus selected; said control member being able to be actuated manually by said operator and / or programmed in the event of the fulfillment of a predetermined condition, in particular in the event of a prolonged presence of a vehicle in the field of video capture means; said recording device (lf) being associated with playback means allowing said operator to view said particular video sequence thus stored by said second storage means (8f); so that the particularly interesting video sequence retracing the circumstances of an accident or a traffic violation is memorized with a view to being viewed and analyzed a posteriori.

9. Device comprising a multimedia data recording device according to claim 1 intended for monitoring (lg) in a vehicle allowing an operator to capture and restore a particular video sequence relating to an incident occurred in said vehicle, in particular a bus accident or hijacking; said monitoring device (lg) comprising:

- video capture means (2g), in particular video cameras, intended to capture video sequences taking place inside said vehicle,

- first storage means (7g), intended for storing continuously and temporarily said video sequences thus captured; said first storage means

(7g) comprising a volatile memory area with a capacity suitable for memorizing sliding fractions and of fixed duration of said video sequences thus captured; said storage being carried out in particular according to a FIFO procedure

(first entry first exit); said monitoring device (lg) further comprising:

- a control unit (12g) allowing to:

Select a particular video sequence from said video sequences thus memorized by said first storage means (7g), in particular the instant of a bus accident or the entry of hijackers,

• order a transfer of said particular video sequence to second storage means (8g), intended to permanently store, in whole or in part, said particular video sequence thus selected; said control member (12g) being able to be actuated manually by said operator and / or programmed in the event of the fulfillment of a predetermined condition, in particular in the event of depressurization of the cabin of an aircraft or in the event that '' a temperature threshold in the vehicle; said monitoring device (lg) being associated with playback means allowing said operator to view said particular video sequence thus stored by said second storage means; so that the particularly interesting video sequence containing the scene of an incident which occurred in the vehicle is memorized with a view to being viewed and analyzed a posteriori.

10. A method of recording multimedia data by means of an apparatus according to claim 1, in particular of television sequences transmitted by a remote transmitter, for the purpose of a replay of sequences prior to the decision to record; said method comprising the following steps: recording multimedia data, in particular television sequences transmitted by a remote transmitter, with a view to a replay of sequences prior to the decision to register; said method comprising the following steps: the step, for a viewer, of viewing said television sequences on a screen of television equipment receiving them in real time,

the step of continuously recording, in a volatile memory zone of appropriate capacity, sliding slices of determined duration of said television sequences thus viewed, according to a FIFO procedure (first entry, first exit),

the step, for said viewer, of selecting a determined sequence which has just been broadcast and which he wishes to review; said determined sequence having been previously recorded according to said FIFO procedure; said method further comprising the step, for said viewer, of actuating by means of a control member

(9h, 10h) the transfer of said determined sequence from said memory area (7h) to an image processing equipment

(lh):

- either to rebroadcast said determined sequence, - either to record said determined sequence on a durable and / or removable medium (8h); so that the viewer thus has the possibility of reliving stealthy moments having captured his attention during the television program.

11. The method of claim 10; said volatile memory area having an appropriate capacity to be able to find almost instantaneously the past sequence having captured the attention of the viewer.

12. Method according to any one of claims 10 or 11; said volatile memory area having an appropriate capacity for the viewer to be able to actuate peacefully by a reflex manual action said control member, having sufficient time.

13. Method according to any one of claims 10 to 12; said method being such that said volatile memory area has a capacity of between 10 s and 30 s.

14. Device comprising an apparatus for recording multimedia data according to claim 1, in particular television sequences transmitted by a remote transmitter, for the purpose of a replay of sequences prior to the decision to record; said device comprising: television equipment receiving said television sequences, in real time, and broadcasting them on a screen for the use of a viewer of the first storage means (7 hours), continuous, temporary comprising a volatile memory area of appropriate capacity, of slices of fixed duration of said television sequences thus viewed, according to a FIFO procedure (first entry, first exit),

- a control member (9h, 10h), actuable by said viewer, for transferring to an image processing equipment a determined sequence selected by said viewer, from the sequences just broadcast and having been previously recorded according to said FIFO procedure in said first storage means (7h); said image processing equipment (1h) comprising:

* second storage means (8h) intended to store permanently, in whole or in part, said determined sequence thus transferred, and / or

* means for rebroadcasting said determined sequence; so that the viewer thus has the possibility of reliving stealthy moments having captured his attention during the television program.

15. Device according to claim 14; said device being such that said first storage means (7h) and / or said second storage means (8h) are removable.

16. Device according to any one of claims 14 or 15; said volatile memory area having an appropriate capacity to be able to find almost instantaneously the past sequence having captured the attention of the viewer.

17. Device according to any one of claims 14 to 16; said volatile memory area having an appropriate capacity for the viewer to be able to actuate peacefully by a reflex manual action said control member, having sufficient time.

18. Device according to any one of claims 14 to 17; said volatile memory zone has a capacity of between 10 s and 30 s. the step, for a viewer, of viewing said television sequences on a screen of television equipment receiving them in real time,

the step of continuously recording, in a volatile memory zone of appropriate capacity, sliding slices of determined duration of said television sequences as well displayed, according to a FIFO procedure (first entry, first exit),

the step, for said viewer, of selecting a determined sequence which has just been broadcast and which he wishes to review; said determined sequence having been previously recorded according to said FIFO procedure; said method further comprising the step, for said viewer, of actuating by means of a control member (9h, 10h) the transfer of said determined sequence from said memory area (7h) to an image processing equipment (lh):

- either to rebroadcast said determined sequence,

- either to record said determined sequence on a durable and / or removable medium (8h); so that the viewer thus has the possibility of reliving stealthy moments having captured his attention during the television program.

19. Device comprising a multimedia data recording apparatus according to claim 1 intended to process multimedia data captured by means of a vision instrument, in particular of binocular type; said recording device being intended to allow an operator to record events and sequences relating to facts prior to a decision to record said operator; said device comprising:

a vision instrument, in particular of the binocular type, making it possible to capture sequences of multimedia data, electronic equipment, receiving said sequences of multimedia data from said vision instrument, via connectors; said electronic equipment comprising:

- first storage means, intended for continuously storing said sequences of images and / or sounds coming from said vision instrument; said first storage means comprising a memory area volatile of a capacity suitable for storing sliding fractions and of determined duration of said multimedia data sequences thus received; said storage being carried out in particular according to the FIFO procedure (first input-first output); said electronic equipment further comprising:

- a control unit allowing to:

Select a particular sequence from the sequences of multimedia data thus memorized by said first storage means, in particular a stealthy instant, sometimes unexpected and suddenly seen through said vision instrument,

• order a transfer of said particular sequence to second storage means, intended to permanently store, in whole or in part, said particular sequence thus selected. ; said control member being actuated manually by said operator and / or in a preprogrammed manner in the event of a specified condition being met, in particular in the event of the presence of said vision instrument in front of a sensor and / or as a function of a triggering parameter, adapted on a specific observation condition.

20. Device for recording multimedia data sequences according to claim 19; said multimedia data sequence recording device being such that said electronic equipment is connected to external reading means and / or to reading means integrated into said vision instrument; said reading means allowing said operator to view said particular sequence thus stored by the second storage means; so that the sequence, appreciated afterwards as being worthy of interest and containing the furtive moment expected during the observation, is memorized in order to be viewed, analyzed and reproduced for purposes specific to the objectives of the observation carried out by means of the vision instrument.