JP2000035991A - History information recorder and product provided with the same - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To make a history information recorder cope with the uses of a wider range without being limited to the manufacture, sales and repair of products and to prevent the falsification of history information. SOLUTION: This history information recorder is provided in the product and is for storing product history information relating to the manufacture, distribution, sales, registration, repair and abandonment in a recording part 24 and transmitting the information corresponding to input signals from the outside. The history information recorder is provided with the plural transmission modes and is provided with a mode changeover part 26a for switching the modes based on the input signals. The mode changeover part 26a selects a first transmission mode at the time of normal use and switches the transmission mode to a second transmission mode in which at least one of output, a frequency, a modulation system and transmission time is different from the one of the first transmission mode based on the input signals. Also, a history information falsification prevention part for inhibiting the rewrite of the storage part 24 under a prescribed required condition and preventing the falsification of the product history information is provided.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

[0001] 1. Field of the Invention [0002] The present invention relates to a history information recording apparatus capable of electrically managing a history of a product, for example, from manufacturing to disposal, and a product including the same. Specifically, the present invention relates to a history information recording device having a function of switching to a transmission mode suitable for, for example, notifying a product location, or a function of preventing the falsification of history information, and a product including the same. .

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, products such as audiovisual equipment (AV equipment) are usually accompanied by a warranty card. This warranty is generally made of paper and contains the product model number,
Information on the product such as a product number, and information on sales such as a store name and a sales date are described. If the product breaks down during a certain warranty period such as one year from the date of sale of the product, based on the description of this warranty,
Services for free repair of products are becoming common.

[0003] However, the above-mentioned guarantee must be saved by the user separately from the product. For this reason, if you lose your warranty, you may not be able to receive free repair service in the event of a failure. In addition, since the warranty card is made of paper, depending on the storage state, for example, the surface of the warranty card may become moldy or dirty due to moisture, and the written items may not be distinguished.

[0004] On the other hand, the product information on the warranty card is described in advance by printing before shipment by the manufacturer, but the sales information is obtained when the dealer presses a rubber stamp with the store name and enters the date of sale. Described by However, for example, in the case of a gift or a prize of a prize, or the intention of a dealer, the date of sale may not be described. In such a case, the start date of the warranty period cannot be specified. For this reason, manufacturers and contractors are obliged to perform repairs according to the user's request even though the warranty period has expired, and repairs that should be paid for Going free and incurring losses. Further, if the sales date cannot be specified, it is impossible to accurately perform statistical product management after sales, such as the life and failure frequency of the product and its components.

Therefore, the present inventor has newly devised that information relating to sales as described in a warranty card, and further, history information of a product relating to manufacturing and repair are digitized and incorporated in the product. Specifically, according to the present invention, a history information recording device that combines an input unit such as a coil-type antenna and a memory is built in a product, and an electromagnetic wave (radio wave, light), a sound, Alternatively, various data is written in a non-contact manner from an image pattern such as a bar code. When an electromagnetic wave is used, this recording device operates without a power source by rectifying and using an electromagnetic wave input from an external terminal or the like to a coil-type antenna as a drive voltage. In addition, operation is not performed unless information such as a purchase date is written. Due to such features, this history information recording device is small and has a very wide range of applications, and is effective in reducing costs related to product repair and management.

[0006]

In the history information recording apparatus, in a case where information relating to the manufacture, sale, and repair of a product is recorded, a salesperson or a repair staff of a maker usually packs a portable terminal, for example, a product. In this state, data is written from a short distance. For this reason, the transmission power and the like may be relatively weak, but this would limit the use of the history information recording device to those related to the manufacture, sale, and repair of products.

On the other hand, if the history information relating to the manufacturing and the like is falsified by an external operation, the reliability of the history information is impaired,
In addition, the warranty period for free repair of the product is unduly extended, and the manufacturer or repair company performing the repair may be disadvantaged.

The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and is not limited to data recording relating to the manufacture, sale, and repair of the above-described products, but also has an improved history information recording apparatus which can be used for a wider range of applications. It is intended to provide a product provided with this. Another object of the present invention is to provide a history information recording device improved so as to enhance the reliability of stored information, for example, by preventing the falsification of stored history information, and a product provided with the same. And

[0009]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In order to solve the above-mentioned problems of the prior art and to achieve the above-mentioned object, a first aspect of the present invention is described.
History information recording device is provided in the product,
A history information recording device for storing product history information relating to manufacturing, distribution, sale, registration, repair, and disposal of the product, and transmitting the information in response to a signal input from the outside. A mode switching unit that has a plurality of transmission modes and switches the transmission mode based on the input signal. This mode switching section is the first mode switch during normal use.
And the transmission mode is switched from the first transmission mode to the second transmission mode based on the input signal.

In the case where radio waves are used as a carrier medium of the product history information, preferably, the second transmission mode has a first output mode, a carrier frequency, a signal modulation method, or a signal transmission time which is shorter than that of the first transmission mode. Transmission mode. More preferably, the second transmission mode includes, in addition to the product history information, a transmission mode of a signal indicating notification information indicating the location of the product. In this history information recording device, a predetermined notification signal may be transmitted irrespective of the transmission of the product history information in response to the input notification request signal.

In the history information recording apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention having such a configuration, when a specific signal such as a mode switching signal and a notification request signal is included in an input signal from a predetermined terminal, for example, based on the specific signal, The mode switching unit switches the transmission mode of the history information recording device from the first transmission mode in normal use to the second transmission mode. Therefore, the signal transmitted thereafter has a different output and frequency of the carrier, or a modulation method and transmission time of the signal, for example, different from those in the normal use. When the second transmission mode is a so-called long-distance transmission mode, the output of the carrier wave is increased, or the frequency or modulation method of the transmission signal is changed to one that easily reaches a long distance. In addition, the signal transmission time becomes longer. In addition, when the second transmission mode is the notification mode, a notification signal indicating the location of the product is automatically added to the product history information or transmitted alone. Here, the notification signal is a signal that widely notifies a specific message, for example, such that the Morse code is generally recognized as “rescue request”.

By utilizing the function of changing the transmission mode, the history information recording device can be used for searching for stolen goods, searching for crimes, searching in the event of distress, and the like. For example, even if the license plate of a stolen vehicle is changed, the contents of the warranty card and vehicle registration number recorded electronically remain the same, so if these recorded data are read out at a toll collection gate on an expressway, for example, It will make it easier to find cars and help arrest criminals. Further, when a wreck occurs in a mountain, a search for a history information recording device provided in a mountain climbing backpack or a radio or the like is performed by radio waves or the like, and if a response is narrowed down, a victim can be found quickly.

A product according to the first aspect of the present invention stores product history information relating to manufacturing, distribution, sales, registration, repair, and disposal, and transmits the history information in response to a signal input from the outside. A product including a recording device, wherein the history information recording device has a plurality of transmission modes, and a mode switching unit that switches the transmission mode based on the input signal. This product has a product control unit, and preferably, when the notification signal is included in the input signal, the history information recording device activates a predetermined in-product means capable of notifying the location of the product. Means for outputting an activation signal to be activated to the product control unit. This means may be shared by the mode switching unit.

This product has a high degree of security against theft and distress by the transmission mode switching function of the history information recording device described above. In particular, as a method of activating the in-product means, for example, blinking of a car light, continuous horning, and the like can be performed by remote control. As a result, in addition to notifying the location of the product, it is possible to notify the surroundings of the abnormality and to prompt immediate rescue from the surroundings.

A history information recording apparatus according to a second aspect of the present invention is provided in a product and has a storage unit for storing product history information relating to manufacturing, distribution, sale, registration, repair, and disposal of the product. An apparatus, comprising: a history information falsification prevention unit that prohibits rewriting of information stored in the storage unit under a predetermined requirement and prevents falsification of the product history information. The requirements for prohibition of rewriting by the history information tampering prevention unit include, for example, that the password is different from the regular one, that the rewriting has been performed a predetermined number of times, and that rewriting has been performed a predetermined number of times. That is, the identification code of the terminal that has issued the rewrite request is different from the identification code of the terminal at the time of the initial writing in which the product history information is first stored, or the writing requested after a predetermined period from the initial writing. It is good to impose things. In the actual write-inhibiting operation, for example, access for mode switching may be prohibited so as not to enter the write mode, or access to an address where product history information is already stored in the storage unit may be prohibited. Is also good. Further, it is preferable to provide a rewriting history storage control unit for determining rewriting history information related to rewriting of the storage unit from the input signal and storing the rewriting history information, so that illegalities can be easily found from the rewriting history.

A history information recording apparatus according to a third aspect of the present invention is provided in a product and has a storage unit for storing product history information relating to manufacturing, distribution, sales, registration, repair, and disposal of the product. The apparatus further includes a history information destruction prevention unit that applies a predetermined restriction to reading of the storage unit and prevents destruction of the product history information due to read disturb. The history information destruction prevention unit limits the number of times of reading when the storage unit is a nonvolatile memory device, or extends the time required for reading from the storage unit after reaching a predetermined number of times. It is good to let.

In the history information recording apparatus according to the second and third aspects of the present invention, for example,
Rewriting or reading of the storage unit can be restricted, thereby effectively preventing tampering or destruction of the product history information.

A product according to a second aspect of the present invention is a product provided with a history information recording device for storing product history information relating to manufacturing, distribution, sales, registration, repair, and disposal in a recording unit. The recording device has a history information falsification prevention unit that prohibits rewriting of the information stored in the storage unit under a predetermined requirement and prevents the product history information from being falsified. This product has a product control unit, preferably, when the history information recording device is tampered with, the product control unit sends a function stop signal to stop the predetermined function of the product to the product control unit. Output.

A product according to a third aspect of the present invention is a product provided with a history information recording device for storing product history information relating to manufacturing, distribution, sales, registration, repair, and disposal in a recording unit. The recording device includes a history information destruction prevention unit that limits the reading of the storage unit and prevents the destruction of the product history information due to read disturb.

In the products according to the second and third aspects, falsification and destruction are prevented, so that the product history information has high reliability. In particular, if the product is tampered with, the function of the product itself will be stopped. As a result, the value of the product will be reduced at that point, which will help to prevent tampering.

[0021]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, embodiments of a history information recording apparatus according to the present invention and a product including the same will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

First Embodiment FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a radio cassette tape recorder as one embodiment of a product including a history information recording device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 1, a radio cassette tape recorder 1 has a known basic function, and usually receives an AM / FM broadcast or records / reproduces a compact cassette tape and reproduces these broadcasts and reproduced sounds. Stream from speakers 2 and 3 on both sides.

The difference between the radio cassette tape recorder 1 of the present embodiment and the ordinary one is that the history information recording apparatus 1
0. This history information recording device 10
It may be built in the product as shown in FIG. 1A, or may be fixed externally as shown in FIG. 1B.

The history information relates to the manufacture, distribution, sale, registration, repair or disposal of a product (here, a radio cassette tape recorder). These history information is optional, but specific examples include, for example, product-related information such as product name, serial number, body color, production factory, production line number, production date, name of assembler, and product inspector. There is a person name, shipping date, etc. For logistics, for example, wholesaler name, arrival date, shipping date,
There is the name of the retail store of the shipping destination. When it comes to sales,
For example, there are a sales date, a store name, a sales person in charge, a sales price, and the like. Further, for items related to repair, for example, there are a repair date, repair details, a name of a person in charge of repair, and the like. Regarding registration and disposal, the registration / disposal application system is not common for home electric appliances as in this example. However, when the product is an automobile, for example, the registration history data includes the vehicle registration number and registrant name. In addition to the vehicle registration number, the history data relating to the disposal includes the applicant for the disposal.

When these data are recorded on or read from the history information recording device 10, as shown in FIG.
For example, a non-contact operation is performed by remote control of a terminal (writing / reading terminal) 100 assigned to a salesperson, a repair staff, or the like, that is, transmission and reception by radio waves. Accordingly, there is an advantage that a sales person or the like can perform such data writing (for example, recording of a sales date) or the like while the product is packed.

FIG. 2 is an external view of the history information recording device 10 formed as a one-chip IC. The history information recording device 10 in the illustrated example includes an IC 20 in which a transmission / reception circuit, a memory unit, various peripheral circuits, and the like are integrated, and a coil-type antenna (hereinafter, a coil antenna) 30 for transmitting and receiving radio waves. The history information recording device 10 includes a coil antenna 30
It has the features that it is powered off by radio waves from it and has no power supply, and that the necessary circuits are housed in one IC, so that it is small and lightweight. In addition, the history information recording apparatus 10 of this example having such a feature can be used not only for electric equipment such as electric equipment and transport equipment, but also for electric equipment such as a yacht, a surfboard, a ski jacket, a backpack for mountain climbing, and mountain climbing. It can be mounted on sports equipment such as shoes and other daily necessities.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a detailed internal configuration of the IC in the history information recording device of FIG. 2 together with a writing / reading terminal and the like. In FIG. 3, a circuit inside the IC roughly includes a reception processing unit 22 that demodulates and determines a received signal, a storage unit 24 that stores data, a transmission processing unit 26 that performs modulation and the like on read storage data, as well as,
The driving voltages of these units 24 to 26 are applied to the coil antenna 3
It is composed of a drive voltage generation unit 28 that generates from radio waves input from 0. In addition, a control unit such as a CPU is generally provided, but is omitted in the figure. In this example, a timer 29 is built in for product control described later.

The reception processing section 22 has a signal discrimination section 22a for discriminating the demodulated reception signal. This signal discriminating unit 22
The main function of a is as follows. First, the received signal is discriminated to classify the history data, specifically, to discriminate whether the data is rewritten data to be rewritten or fixed data that cannot be rewritten. . Second, when the received signal includes the mode switching signal, the signal is sent to the transmission processing unit. Third, when the received signal includes the notification request signal, the signal is transmitted to the transmission processing unit side and a predetermined portion in the product. Fourth, a signal for instructing the product to inhibit operation or start up is sent to a predetermined portion in the product.

The storage unit 24 has a fixed memory area 24a, a rewrite memory area 24b, and peripheral circuits for writing or reading data to or from specific addresses in these memory areas. The fixed memory area 24a may be a mask ROM or the like if the write data is known at the manufacturing stage, but is usually an OTPROM (One Time Programmable Read Only) which can be written only once from outside.
Memory) is preferred. The rewritable memory area 24b is a rewritable nonvolatile memory, for example, a flash EEPROM.
M, FeRAM, etc. are preferred. However, in the case of being integrated into one chip as in this example, in order to avoid complication of the manufacturing process, all may be constituted by, for example, a flash EEPROM and a means for inhibiting writing only in the fixed memory area 24a may be provided.

The transmission processing section 26 has a plurality of transmission modes, and switches the transmission mode.
a. This switching of the transmission mode is a feature of the present invention. The mode switching unit 26a sets the first transmission mode during normal use, and changes the transmission mode from the first transmission mode to the second transmission mode when a mode switching signal or a notification request signal is input from the signal determination unit 22a. To the transmission mode. The specific mode of the transmission mode will be described later.

The drive voltage generator 28 converts an input radio wave from an alternating current into a direct current, and has various configurations. Here, as a general configuration, only the rectifier 28a and the capacitor 28b are shown. The capacitor 28b is provided for the purpose of further smoothing the rectified waveform, temporarily storing the drive voltage, stabilizing the drive voltage value, and the like. When one electrode of the capacitor 28b is connected to the timer 29 and the driving voltage is supplied first and the holding voltage value decreases,
This may be given to the timer 29 as a time count trigger.

The history information recording device 10 of the present embodiment is connected to a product control unit 1a such as a microcomputer provided inside the product. Specifically, the clock signal from the timer 29 and the storage unit 24 are stored in the product control unit 1a.
Is connected so that history data and the like read from
Conversely, the product control unit 1a is connected so that the time when the product is first used or the like can be recorded in the rewrite memory area 24b. As will be described in detail later, a notification request signal, an operation prohibition request signal, and a start signal are connected so as to be able to be input from the signal determination unit 22a.

Next, an example of the operation of the history information recording apparatus 10 having such a configuration will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a procedure for writing history data. In this figure, the product identification number ID (for example, serial number) is assigned to the fixed memory area 2.
4A shows a case where history data relating to sales is recorded in the rewrite memory area 24b after the readout from the memory 4a and the determination as to whether or not the product is our product is made. It is not necessary to perform the appropriateness determination based on the ID every time the history data is written, but here, a read operation example will also be described.

First, in step ST1 of FIG. 4, for example, the sales person operates the writing / reading terminal 100 to inquire about the identification number ID of the product. Specifically, a read request signal is transmitted from the write / read terminal 100, and the history information recording device 10 receives the read request signal with the coil antenna 30. The reception signal (read request signal) is input to both the drive voltage generation unit 28 and the reception processing unit 22, for example, in the configuration of FIG.
The drive voltage generator 28 converts the induced current generated by the coil antenna 30 to receive the signal into a rectifier 28.
After being rectified by a and accumulating charges in the capacitor 28, the voltage is sent to each of the units 22 to 26 as a drive voltage. When the reception processing unit 22 receiving the drive voltage is activated, the received signal input there is demodulated, and then the content of the read request, that is, the read of the identification number ID is determined by the signal determination unit 22a. You. Then, when the reading of the identification number ID is instructed to the storage unit 24, the identification number ID stored in advance at a predetermined address of the fixed memory area 24a of the storage unit 24 is read and sent to the transmission processing unit 26. After the identification number ID is modulated by the transmission processing unit 26, the write / read terminal 10
Sent toward zero.

In step ST2, it is determined whether the product to which data is to be written is appropriate based on the identification number ID. Specifically, the writing / reading terminal 100 that has received the signal from the history information recording device 10 demodulates the received signal, confirms that the identification number ID has been transmitted, and then checks the identification number ID. Whether the product to be sold indicates the correct serial number of the correct maker is determined by comparing it with a pre-registered list or the like. If it is determined that the product is incorrect, the identification number ID is queried again, and if the same result is obtained even after repeating the predetermined number of times, the product is determined to be illegal and the sale is stopped.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the product is appropriate, predetermined history data (for example, the date of sale of the product, a store, etc.) and a write request signal are sent to the history information recording device 10 in step ST3. I do. The history information recording device 10 that has received the write request signal generates a drive voltage and demodulates the received signal as in the case of the above-described read. The signal determination unit 22a determines the contents of the history data requested to be written and the designated memory area (and address) based on the demodulated write request signal. Then, the storage unit 24 writes the history data to the rewrite memory area 24b at the predetermined address (or the specified address). Subsequently, the storage unit 24 reads the written history data for verification, transmits the data to the transmission processing unit 26 in the same manner as described above, modulates the data, and transmits the modulated data to the writing / reading terminal 100 again.

Write / read terminal 100 receiving this signal
Then, in the next step ST4, it is verified whether the data is correctly written. Incorrect (“N
In the case of "O"), the write request signal is transmitted again to perform writing, and then the write data is read and verified as described above. If the result of the verification is correct ("YES"), the writing process ends.

As described above, in this operation example, the identification number can be collated before writing the history data in the history information recording device, thereby facilitating the discovery of an unauthorized product, and providing reliable sales. Activities become possible. It is to be noted that, in addition to the detection of an illegal product as described above, it is possible to prevent the illegal product from operating as a more powerful anti-fraud measure. For example, as in the above-described operation example, when an illegal product is determined by collation of the identification signal, when the writing / reading terminal 100 transmits an operation prohibition request signal, the signal discriminating unit 2 that has determined the operation prohibition request signal.
2a sends the operation prohibition request signal to the product control section 1a, thereby prohibiting the operation of the product.

The above is an example of a procedure in which a salesperson writes history data such as a sales date. However, basic operations of writing and reading data are common in manufacturing, distribution, registration, repair, and disposal. . For example, in the case of repair, it is necessary to read the sales date from the history information recording device and determine whether or not it is within the repair period, and to know whether it is free repair within the warranty period or paid repair after the warranty period has passed. . The reading at this time can be performed in the same manner as in the above-described example (reading the identification number), and the repair data can be written in the same manner as in the above-described example. In the case of this repair, if the date of sale is not stated, the manufacturer or the contractor who has contracted the repair may be forced to repair the product whose warranty period has expired, which may be disadvantageous. Therefore, it is possible to make a rule that the absence of such a sale date is illegal. In this case, the sales date can be queried as long as the store name is stored, and even if the store name is not stored, if the various information of the distribution route is stored, the sales number can be obtained. It is also possible to identify the dealer who committed the fraud through the production factory and the wholesaler. For this reason, the manufacturer or contractor who intends to repair does not suffer disadvantages as in the past. It is also desirable that the product control unit 1a determines that there is no data (store name, date of sale, etc.) that should be written if the product is sold properly, and that the operation of the product is not permitted. . As a result, theft can be suppressed.

For manufacturing and physical distribution, writing and reading of history data can be performed in the same manner. Regarding registration and disposal, home appliances usually do not require registration or disposal.However, if vehicle registration is required, such as a car, fraud can be easily found at the same time as writing and reading history data, Actions such as prohibiting operation can be performed.

On the other hand, even when the sales date is not recorded as described above, the product of the present example has its history information recording device 1
Using the timer in 0, the date and time when the operation of the product is started, for example, the date and time when the product is first turned on can be recorded instead of the sale date. Because usually
This is because the first operation is generally performed within a few days after the product is sold. This allows the repairing party to
With reference to the operation start date, it is possible to determine whether to perform the repair or to perform the repair free of charge. Note that the power supply voltage of the timer can be supplied from the holding voltage of the drive voltage generation unit 28 if the power consumption is small, but if not, a dedicated battery is separately provided or the power supply from the battery in the product is performed. I need to get it. Also, to save battery power, a timer can be started before the product is first powered on. In this case, for example, a decrease in the holding voltage of the capacitor 28b may be used as a trigger for time counting.

In the above-described history data write (and read) procedure, signal transmission is repeated a plurality of times. In any of these manufacturing, distribution, sales, registration, repair, and disposal, usually, a person in charge operates a terminal from near the product to write history data and the like. The history information recording apparatus of the present invention is characterized in that it has a signal transmission mode switching function so that history data can be operated from a long distance, for example.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a data transmission procedure according to this embodiment. First, in step ST11,
The received signal from write / read terminal 100 is determined. This determination is performed entirely by the signal determination unit 22a, or only the determination of the mode switching signal is performed by the signal determination unit 22a, and the mode switching unit 26a that receives the mode switching signal determines the mode content.

If the result of this determination is a mode for transmitting history data, the processing step proceeds to the next step ST12.
To determine whether the mode switching unit 26a is in the normal transmission mode.

In the normal transmission mode, the first mode (normal transmission mode) is maintained in step ST14, and predetermined history data is transmitted in this mode.

If it is determined in step ST12 that the transmission mode is not the normal transmission mode, the process proceeds to step ST13, and it is determined whether the transmission mode further includes the broadcast information. Here, the broadcast information is information that widely broadcasts a specific message, for example, such that a Morse code is generally recognized as a “rescue request”.

If the result of this determination is that the broadcast information is not included, the transmission mode is switched from the first mode to the second mode in step ST15. Specifically, the second mode has at least four basic modes for changing the output or frequency of a carrier of information, and changing the modulation method or transmission time of an information signal. First, based on the mode switching signal described above, one of the four basic modes or an optimal mode among the composite modes obtained by combining the basic modes is selected. After the transmission mode is switched from the first mode to the selected mode by the mode switching unit 26a, predetermined history data is transmitted in this mode.

If it is determined in step ST13 that the broadcast information is included, the process proceeds to step ST16, where the transmission mode is switched from the first mode to the second mode. That is, first, as in the second mode, the optimum mode is selected from among a plurality of modes including four items of output, frequency, modulation scheme, and transmission time, which are different from each other alone or in combination, and which include broadcast information. Is selected. After the transmission mode is switched from the first mode to the selected mode by the mode switching unit 26a, predetermined history data and notification information are transmitted simultaneously in this mode.

On the other hand, in the first step ST11, it may be determined that the broadcast information is transmitted alone. This does not involve transmission of history data. The transmission mode is
As in steps ST15 and ST16, the output, frequency,
A predetermined mode different from the normal mode is determined in advance by using the four elements of the modulation method and the transmission time alone or in combination. After switching to the predetermined mode, predetermined notification information is transmitted alone. In addition, predetermined notification information (step ST
16 notification information) is stored in the storage unit 24 in advance, or another storage unit is separately provided, and read out from them and used.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the output, frequency, modulation method, transmission time, and the like at the time of transmission can be changed. For this reason, for example, the first mode is set to a short-distance transmission mode using weak radio waves that requires less power consumption, and the second mode is set to the second mode.
Mode can be a long-distance transmission mode that reaches far. As a result, it is possible to perform a control in which an instruction is sent from a remote terminal to the history information recording device 10 and the history data is transferred to another remote terminal. Also, the second
When the transmission mode is a mode with notification, notification information indicating the location of the product can be automatically added to the history data and transmitted. Alternatively, the broadcast information can be transmitted alone.

By utilizing the function of changing the transmission mode, the history information recording device can be used for searching for stolen goods, searching for crimes, searching in the event of distress, and the like. For example, even if the license plate of a stolen vehicle is changed, the contents of the warranty card and vehicle registration number recorded electronically remain the same, so if these recorded data are read out at a toll collection gate on an expressway, for example, It will make it easier to find cars and help arrest criminals. In addition, in the case of theft not only for automobiles, it is usual that the data of the date of sale, the store, the registration, etc. are not recorded. And
If the stolen article is not forcibly operated by remote control, the effect of preventing theft can be obtained. Also, if you are distressed on a mountain, search for a history information recording device equipped with a mountain climbing rucksack, radio, etc. by radio waves, etc.
You can find it quickly.

On the other hand, a predetermined in-product means can be activated by the product control unit 1a which has received the activation signal. If the product is a car, for example, the lights can flash or the horn can be made continuous. As a result, it is possible to notify the surroundings of the abnormality and to prompt rescue from the surroundings.

In the above, various embodiments of the history information recording device of the present invention and the product provided with the same have been described. The present invention is not limited to this, and various modifications are possible in the embodiment of the present invention.
For example, the carrier for transmission / reception of the history information recording device may be, in addition to radio waves, other electromagnetic waves such as light, or the data input / output of the history information recording device may be performed by an electric signal, voice, or an image such as a bar code. Good. In response to such changes, the history information recording device is provided with appropriate input / output means, for example, a light receiving element, a light emitting element, an input / output terminal, a microphone, a speaker, a bar code reader, and the like. When the carrier is light, a photovoltaic power generation unit is provided, which makes it possible to eliminate power supply. In any case, writing and reading of history data is basically performed without contact. However, in the case of, for example, an image, data may be captured by contact.

Finally, a brief description will be given of a preferable packing form when the carrier of the history data is light or the like. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a tape recorder provided with a microphone, showing a packaging form thereof. In FIG. 6, reference numeral 40 denotes a tape recorder as a product, 40a denotes a microphone, and 50 denotes a packing material.

The history information recording device is built in the tape recorder 40 so that the light receiving section 42 is exposed to the outer surface of the product. On the other hand, in the packing material 50, when the product is covered at the time of packing, the light receiving portion 42 corresponds to the window portion 50 in which a transparent film or the like is partially adhered, for example.
a is provided. Therefore, write /
With the reading terminal approaching, writing or reading of history information to or from the history information recording device built in the tape recorder 40 becomes possible. On the other hand, in the case of using an electric signal or a bar code, a terminal or a bar code reader may be provided with a window with a cover that is exposed to the outside. As described above, by changing the packing material according to the type of the carrier or the like, the contents of the history information recording device can be remotely controlled in the packed state. In addition, writing and reading of history data can be accurately performed with less influence of noise.

The history information recording device does not necessarily have to be formed as a one-chip IC as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, and a similar configuration can be realized by using a plurality of ICs or mounting individual components on a board. realizable. In this case, the fixed memory and the rewrite memory may be separate semiconductor elements. Further, in the configuration of FIG. 3, the input signal is immediately input to the drive voltage generation means 28 to generate the required voltage early.
The carrier component after demodulating the received signal and separating it from the signal component may be used for voltage generation. In this case, the reception processing unit 2
A dedicated battery or the like may be preliminarily incorporated as a supply source of the second drive voltage, or if a product has a button battery or the like, it may be used. Further, all of the units 22 to 26 may be driven by a battery. In this case, the input unit does not need to be a coil antenna.

As described above, the history information recording apparatus according to the present invention and the product provided with the same can grasp a wide range of product histories including manufacturing, distribution, sales, registration, repair, and disposal of products. Further, by changing the transmission mode, data can be exchanged with a remote place, and the product can be provided with a notification function.

Conventionally, the management of individual products at individual stages has been performed, for example, only for manufacturing and sales only. However, since the management data is written on paper or the like and separated from the products, the management data is lost. It was not easy to use, the format was different, and the environment was not interchangeable. Moreover, once a product has been sold and entered the market, it has been impossible to manage the history of each individual product.

On the other hand, with the history information recording device, data is made uniform between industries related to the product and standardized for the exchange of data between the manufacturing and disposal of the product. It is possible to build a product history management system. Thereby, the management efficiency of the industry relating to the product can be dramatically improved. Also,
For example, as described above, it is possible to eliminate disadvantages such as a manufacturer or repairer performing free repair of a product whose warranty period has expired, and to improve fairness. Further, the history information recording device and the products using the same have become unprecedented in various ways, such as the ability to identify products, etc. everywhere, and the provision of a notification function, which is useful for theft prevention, criminal investigation, rescue, etc. Effect.

Second Embodiment In the first embodiment described above, the storage unit 24 is divided into a fixed memory area 24a and a rewrite memory area 24b, and product history information that does not need to be rewritten, such as a serial number, is stored in the fixed memory area 24a. , So that some product history information cannot be rewritten. Further, by inquiring the ID as in the operation example shown in FIG. 4, fraud could be prevented to some extent. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, in order to prevent fraud more strongly, in particular, the function of preventing the tampering of the product history information is provided in the history information recording device itself, and even when the reading is frequently performed, the product history information is not changed. The present invention relates to a history information recording device that prevents the data from being destroyed, and a product including the same.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a main part of the history information recording device according to the present embodiment. The history information recording device 60 of this example shown in FIG. 7 includes a history information tampering prevention unit 62, a history information destruction prevention unit 64, and a rewriting history storage control unit 66.
Are newly added to the history information recording device 10 according to the first embodiment. The history information tampering prevention unit 62, the history information destruction prevention unit 64, and the rewriting history storage control unit 6
6 is connected to the storage unit 24. The configuration of the history information recording device 60 other than that shown in FIG. 7 is the same as that of FIG. 3 according to the first embodiment. That is, as shown in FIG.
In C20, in addition to the storage unit 24, the reception processing unit 22,
Transmission processing unit 26, drive voltage generation unit 28, and timer 29
The coil antenna 3 is provided outside the IC 20.
0 is formed. As a configuration other than the history information recording device 60, a product control unit 1a is provided inside the product, and a writing / reading terminal 100 is provided outside the product. The basic operation is the same as that of the first embodiment.

Hereinafter, the operations of the history information falsification prevention unit 62, history information destruction prevention unit 64, and rewrite history storage control unit 66 shown in FIG. 7 will be sequentially described.

The history information falsification preventing unit 62 prohibits rewriting of the information stored in the storage unit under a predetermined requirement. For example, the following requirement can be imposed as the requirement of prohibition of rewriting, alone or in an appropriate combination.

First, a rewrite request signal is sent to the write / read terminal 1
When the password is transmitted from 00, a password is required, and the requirement for rewriting is that the password indicated by the rewriting request signal matches the regular password. That is, a product (for example, a tape recorder) to which the history information recording device 60 is attached.
When the registered password stored in the storage unit 24 at the time of manufacture or sale of the product and disclosed to the authorized purchaser of the product or presented by the authorized purchaser is compared with the password indicated by the rewrite request signal, and the password matches. Allows rewriting and prohibits rewriting if the passwords do not match. It is desirable that the registered password serving as the collation reference be stored in the fixed memory area 24a.
This is to prevent falsification of the registered password.

Second, after rewriting has been performed a predetermined number of times, rewriting can not be permitted even if requested. For example, 2 for each type of product history information
Up to the first writing, that is, the first writing (initial writing) of the product history information and the first rewriting can be performed. As a result, when erroneous data is written at the time of initial writing, the correction can be performed for convenience. Specifically, for example, the write data is read out after the initial write, and if incorrect, correct product history information is written, and if correct, the same data is automatically written by a confirmation operation. As a result, the third or later writing (second or later rewriting) becomes impossible, and as a result, the falsification of the product history information is prevented.

Third, it is possible to limit the number of rewrite attempts instead of the actual number of times of writing. For example, when write-protection is performed using the above-described password, a person who attempts to falsify the product history information may change the password in order to search for a true password, and may repeatedly try rewriting in a short period of time. In such a case, if the number of rewriting attempts reaches a predetermined number, if the subsequent rewriting is prohibited, for example, the probability that the password is ascertained and the product history information is falsified becomes extremely low.

Fourth, the rewrite request signal is sent to the write / read terminal 1
00, the identification code of the writing / reading terminal 100 is requested, and the rewriting is performed only when the identification code of the terminal indicated by the rewriting request signal matches the identification code of the terminal that has written first. Permission is allowed, and if they do not match, rewriting can be prohibited. This focuses on the fact that rewriting of the product history information is usually performed from a specific terminal, so that, for example, even if the terminal itself is forged or stolen, the product history information is rewritten. Rewriting cannot be performed.

Fifth, it is possible to prohibit the writing requested after a certain period from the first writing (initial writing) of the product history information. This focuses on the fact that most of the usual rewriting of the product history information is performed for the purpose of correcting errors at the time of input, so that the rewriting of the product history information is frequently concentrated within a certain period from the initial writing. That is, even if the time during which the product history information can be rewritten is limited to a certain period from the initial writing, there is almost no hindrance to the normal work of inputting the product history information. On the other hand, if the rewritable time is limited, the probability of intentionally altering the product history information can be significantly reduced.

As an actual write-inhibiting method, for example, the mode switching access to the rewrite memory area 24b in the storage unit 24 may be prohibited so as not to enter the write mode, or the product history information may already be stored in the storage unit. May be prohibited from being accessed for the address where is stored. Further, in the present embodiment, not only writing is prohibited, but also
For example, the product control unit 1a shown in FIG. 3 can stop the function of the product or disturb the operation. As an example of stopping the function, for example, a sound is not emitted in the case of a tape recorder. As an example of disturbing the operation, for example, in the case of a video deck, a disturbing signal is superimposed on a reproduced image signal to disturb the reproduced image so that it cannot be used. By remarkably reducing the commercial value of the product in this way, it is possible to effectively suppress the falsification of the product history information.

By the way, when the storage element of the storage unit 24 is a nonvolatile memory element such as a flash EEPROM, if reading is performed frequently, data held in the storage element changes due to voltage stress applied to the storage element at the time of reading. The product history information is gradually destroyed by so-called read disturb. The history information destruction prevention unit 64 imposes restrictions on reading of the storage unit 24 in order to prevent such information destruction.

As a limitation on the reading, for example, the history information destruction preventing unit 64 limits the number of readings of the history information from the storage unit 24 to a predetermined number, for example, about 10,000 times. The number of times of reading is limited to a number sufficient for practical use as an electronic warranty card (product history recording device) and a number that can ensure a sufficient margin for read disturb of the storage element. After the reading is performed a predetermined number of times, for example, about 10,000 times, the built-in reading delay circuit may be operated so that the reading takes a sufficiently long time. For example, after a predetermined number of readings,
If it takes 000 times, reading cannot be performed within a predetermined normal reading cycle, so that reading can be substantially inhibited.

This read delay can be applied to rewriting of the product history information. In this application, for example,
When the product history information is rewritten in the storage unit 24, the product control unit 1a controls the product to operate only after reading out the rewritten product history information. If the reading is delayed for an extremely long time, for example, after 24 hours, if the product history information is rewritten (falsified), the product will not operate until after 24 hours, so that the tampering action is suppressed. can do.

On the other hand, the rewriting history storage control unit 66 shown in FIG.
Is a control means for storing the history of the rewriting itself. For example, the date and time when the rewriting was performed, the contents, the identification code of the terminal to which the rewriting request was issued, and the like are stored in the storage unit 24 or other storage means. Stored every time there is. As a result, it is possible to keep a record of when and how the product history information has been changed, and by examining this record, it becomes easy to find out when and how the product history information has been falsified. Further, since the terminal used for falsification is known, it is easy to identify the person who has falsified.

Finally, two specific operations in the present embodiment will be described with reference to a flowchart.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart when writing is limited to one time. The first steps ST11 to ST13 are almost the same as steps ST1 to ST3 in FIG. 4, and include a product identification number ID (for example, a production number).
Is read from the fixed memory area 24a (step ST
11) After the appropriateness of the product is determined (Step ST12), the sales history data is transmitted (Step ST13).

In the next step 14, whether or not the data is to be written for the first time to the address of the rewrite memory area 24b designated to write the data is determined by, for example, the history information tampering prevention unit 62. As a result, when writing to the specified address is performed for the first time, writing to the specified address is permitted, and the process proceeds to the next step ST1.
Go to 5. If it is not the first time, the writing is prohibited and the process is terminated.

In step ST15, step S in FIG.
Similarly to T4, the storage unit 24 reads the written history data for verification and transmits it to the writing / reading terminal 100, and the writing / reading terminal 100 that has received this signal writes the data correctly. Is verified.
If the result of this verification is incorrect ("NO"), a write request signal is transmitted again to perform writing, and then the written data is read and verified as described above. Then, data writing and reading verification are repeated until the data is determined to be correct. The verification result is correct (“Y
ES ”), the writing process ends.

In the above example, the number of times of writing is limited to one. However, to limit the number of times of writing to a plurality of times (n), it is determined in step ST14 whether or not the number of times of writing is smaller than n. It is better to permit writing only when.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a case where the operation of a product is disturbed as an example of a process when data is rewritten improperly. In step ST21, the rewrite memory 2
4b, the next step S
At T22, it is determined whether this has been performed properly. This determination is made by the history information tampering prevention unit 62. For example, only when the password, the number of rewrites or trials, the terminal identification code, or the elapsed time from the initial write satisfies the above-described requirements, the data rewrite is performed. It is determined that the product history information is “falsified”. If this data rewriting has been performed properly, that is, if the above requirements are not satisfied, the process ends.

If this data rewriting is not properly performed and any of the above requirements is satisfied, the process proceeds to the next step ST23. In step ST23, for example, an operation obstruction request signal is issued from the history information tampering prevention unit 62 to the product control unit 1a, thereby interrupting a predetermined operation of the product. For example, if the product is a VCR, the reproduced image will be disturbed by an interference signal such that it cannot be used. Then, the process ends. Note that the history information tampering prevention unit 62 may directly emit a disturbance signal to the product. Further, a signal for stopping the function or the operation without interrupting the operation may be issued.

In the history information recording apparatus of the present embodiment and the product provided with the same, the falsification of the product history information is effectively prevented or suppressed, and the product history information is not destroyed due to read disturb even if reading is performed frequently. It is effectively prevented, and as a result, the reliability of the product history information is high. The rewrite history of the product history information is stored, which makes it easy to identify the fact of falsification and identify the falsified person.

[0082]

According to the history information recording apparatus and the product provided with the same according to the present invention, the history information recording apparatus can be used not only for recording, manufacturing, selling and repairing products but also for a wider range of uses. It is possible to provide various products provided with this. Further, it is possible to provide a history information recording device improved to improve the reliability of the stored information, such as by preventing unauthorized alteration of the stored history information, and a product including the same.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a radio cassette tape recorder as an example of a product including a history information recording device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is an external view of a history information recording device formed as a one-chip IC according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a detailed internal configuration of the IC together with a write / read terminal and the like in the history information recording device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for writing and reading history data.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a data transmission procedure.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a packing form of a tape recorder having a microphone as an example.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a main part of a history information recording device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart when writing is limited to one time.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a case where the operation of a product is hindered as an example of a process when data is rewritten inappropriately.

[Description of Signs] 1. Radio cassette tape recorder (product), 2, 3 ...
Speakers, 10, 60: history information recording device, 20: I
C, 22: reception processing unit, 22a: signal determination unit, 24: storage unit, 24a: fixed memory area, 24b: rewrite memory area, 26: transmission processing unit, 26a: mode switching unit, 28:
Driving voltage generator, 28a rectifier, 28b capacitor, 29 timer, 30 coil antenna, 40 tape recorder (product), 40a microphone, 42
Light receiving section of history information recording apparatus, 50: packing material, 50a: window, 62: history information falsification prevention section, 64: history information destruction prevention section, 66: rewriting history storage control section, 100: writing / writing
Reading terminal.

Claims (30)

[Claims] Claims: 1. A method according to claim 1, wherein the product is provided in a product,
A history information recording device that stores product history information related to sales, registration, repair, and disposal, and that transmits the information in response to a signal input from the outside, comprising a plurality of transmission modes for the product history information, A history information recording device having a mode switching unit that switches the transmission mode based on the input signal. 2. The mode switching section selects a first transmission mode during normal use, and switches the transmission mode from the first transmission mode to the second transmission mode based on the input signal. 2. The history information recording device according to 1. 3. The history information recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a radio wave is used as a transport medium of the product history information. 4. The history information recording apparatus according to claim 2, wherein a radio wave is used as a transport medium of said product history information. 5. The history information recording apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the second transmission mode includes a transmission mode in which a carrier wave for transmitting the product history information is different from the first transmission mode. 6. The history information recording apparatus according to claim 4, wherein said second transmission mode includes a transmission mode in which a frequency of a carrier for transmitting said product history information is different from said first transmission mode. 7. The history information recording apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the second transmission mode includes a transmission mode in which a modulation scheme of a signal indicating the product history information is different from the first transmission mode. 8. The history information recording apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the second transmission mode includes a transmission mode in which a transmission time of a signal indicating the product history information is different from that of the first transmission mode. 9. The history information recording apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the second transmission mode includes a signal transmission mode indicating the product history information and notification information for notifying the location of the product. 10. A transmission mode of a signal including the broadcast information in the second transmission mode is such that at least one of an output of a carrier, a frequency, a modulation method, and a transmission time is the first mode.
10. The history information recording device according to claim 9, wherein the history information recording device is different from the transmission mode. 11. The history information recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a predetermined notification signal is transmitted in response to the input notification request signal irrespective of transmission of the product history information. 12. A storage unit for storing the product history information,
2. The history information recording device according to claim 1, comprising a fixed memory in which writing of information is limited to one time, and a rewritable memory in which stored information can be rewritten. 13. A history information recording device provided in a product and having a storage unit for storing product history information relating to manufacturing, distribution, sales, registration, repair, and disposal of the product, wherein the storage unit stores the product history information. A history information recording device having a history information falsification prevention unit that prohibits rewriting of information under predetermined requirements and prevents falsification of the product history information. 14. The history information tampering prevention unit is stored in the storage unit at the time of manufacture or sale of the product, a password disclosed to or presented by an authorized purchaser of the product, and a password after sale of the product. 14. The history information recording device according to claim 13, wherein the password is collated with the input password, and when the password does not match, the rewriting of the storage unit is prohibited. 15. The history information tampering prevention section prohibits mode switching access so as not to enter a write mode when rewriting an address where product history information is already stored in the storage section. History information recording device. 16. The history information tampering prevention unit is configured to determine whether or not an address at which product history information has already been stored in the storage unit.
14. The history information recording device according to claim 13, wherein access during writing is prohibited. 17. The history information recording apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the history information tampering prevention unit permits rewriting of the storage unit up to a predetermined number of times, and prohibits rewriting of the storage unit after the predetermined number of times of rewriting. . 18. The method according to claim 13, wherein the history information tampering prevention unit permits rewriting of the storage unit while the number of trials has not reached a predetermined number of times, and prohibits rewriting after a predetermined number of trials has been performed. History information recording device. 19. The history information falsification prevention unit inputs a rewrite request signal for product history information, determines an identification code of a terminal that transmitted the rewrite request signal from the input rewrite request signal, and determines the identification code. 14. The product history information according to claim 13, wherein the product history information requested to be rewritten is compared with an identification code of a terminal when the product history information is first written in the storage unit, and rewriting of the product history information is prohibited based on the comparison result. History information recording device. 20. The history information tampering prevention unit, based on an elapsed time from an initial write when the product history information is first written in the storage unit, a product requested after a predetermined period from the initial write. 14. The history information recording device according to claim 13, wherein rewriting of history information is prohibited. 21. The history information recording apparatus according to claim 13, further comprising: a rewriting history storage control unit for determining rewriting history information relating to rewriting of said storage unit from an input signal and storing the rewriting history information. 22. A history information recording device provided on a product and having a storage unit for storing product history information on production, distribution, sale, registration, repair, and disposal of the product, wherein a predetermined value is read from the storage unit. And a history information recording device having a history information destruction prevention unit for preventing destruction of the product history information due to read disturb. 23. The history information recording device according to claim 22, wherein the history information destruction prevention unit limits the number of times of reading when the storage unit is a nonvolatile memory device. 24. The history information destruction preventing section, when the storage section is composed of a nonvolatile memory device, extends the time required for reading from the storage section after a predetermined number of times of reading. Item 23. The history information recording device according to item 22. 25. A product comprising a history information recording device for storing product history information relating to manufacturing, distribution, sales, registration, repair, and disposal, and transmitting the information in response to a signal input from outside. The history information recording device has a plurality of transmission modes,
A product having a mode switching unit that switches the transmission mode based on the input signal. 26. The product has a product control unit, and the history information recording device includes a predetermined in-product means for notifying the location of the product when a notification request signal is included in the input signal. 26. The product according to claim 25, further comprising: means for outputting an activation signal for activating to the product control unit. 27. The product according to claim 26, wherein said mode switching unit also serves as means for outputting said activation signal. 28. A product comprising a history information recording device for storing product history information on manufacturing, distribution, sales, registration, repair, and disposal in a recording unit, wherein the history information recording device is stored in the storage unit. A product having a history information tampering prevention unit that prohibits rewriting of the provided information under predetermined requirements and prevents tampering of the product history information. 29. The product has a product control unit, and the history information recording device sends a function stop signal for stopping a predetermined function of the product when the product history information is falsified. 29. The product according to claim 28, wherein the product is output. 30. A product provided with a history information recording device for storing product history information relating to manufacturing, distribution, sales, registration, repair, and disposal in a recording unit, wherein the history information recording device reads out the storage unit. A product having a history information destruction preventing unit for preventing destruction of the product history information due to read disturb.